Let's hear from your local North Central Florida dumpster rental operators, Ryan Smith and Sarah Karremans.
What brought you to Gainesville, Florida?
We lived in Kingston, Ontario back in Canada for 38 years. Like Gainesville, it's a University town, although Gators sports are way more serious than Queens Gaels Football. When we explored opportunities in Florida, we came across Gainesville in our searches, came down to visit and really loved it. Gainesville reminds us of home, with the weather as an exception of course. Our business is a franchise model, so our operating territory is Belleview to Gainesville, and with the growth in Marion County, combined with the steady income base of Gainesville it all seemed like a naturally great fit.
What drew you to your profession?
Ryan used to work with a friend who owned a 1-800 GOT JUNK location years ago and really became interested in the whole industry. The dumpster industry is truly a needed business. It was something we could run as partners and grow organically. The more you learn about the waste industry the more interesting it becomes. It's trashy, sure. But someone has to do it! Our residential friendly model allows us to get dumpsters into places that standard roll offs can't. Which means construction, renovation and real estate jobs can still keep the area clean and safe for everyone. Also, Bin There Dump That started in Canada. Just like we did! Everything came together nicely.
How do you balance family and work life?
We opened in 2022. So, how does any new business owner balance home/work life? You don't! We are just two people in our early 40's working to create a new life in a new country. So we really do put all of our effort into the business. We've met hundreds of great people through Chamber events, Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine events, etc. Some have even become friends. So it lends itself to the fantastic ability to merge home/work life together. Business owners always love to chat about daily experiences, struggles, ideas and so forth. So most entrepreneurs never really stop working, that's what makes us who we are. We just do it differently than a traditional employee.
Did you have a mentor?
Successful business owners are fantastic mentors. From a local standpoint or on a grand scale. Watching Shark Tank style shows and being aware of all the ideas and thoughts people create or expand on is just amazing to watch. Inspiration is everywhere. Find your grind and dig into it. We've kind of just jumped into this thing knowing very little and been able to successfully grow month over month. Being part of a franchise model helps, we definitely have used the ability to collaborate and discuss issues as they come up in the beginning with other locations across the US, and here in Florida. So we think they'd count as mentors in a sense.
What is your favorite quote?
"If you don't build your dream, someone else will hire you to build theirs." - Dhirubhai Ambani