Johnson opens junk removal business

When Madti Johnson, Janesville resident and former Patient Care Assistant, found herself moving out of her home at the same time as her then-client, the process of clearing out two living spaces proved to be quite a task - most of which consisted of collecting multiple loads of unwanted items and taking them to the local dump. 

“By the end of that month, there was just one last load left,” Johnson said, explaining that she then decided to search for services in the area that could remove the remaining items. Finding none, the idea to start her own junk removal business came to mind.

After the moves were done, Johnson had time to do some more research on junk removal services and the process of starting a business. Now, at 26, she is the owner of Paradise Lakes Junk Removal, a business she started in September of 2023. 

“My first job [I used] my dad’s utility trailer,” she said. “I got my dump trailer a month later.”

Since then, Johnson has had over a hundred jobs so far, providing residential and commercial junk removal and pickup services in several counties. Currently, most of the jobs are done solely by Johnson, who helps clients remove a variety of objects - from household garbage, mattresses, furniture, appliances, etc. - from multiple areas, including houses and other living spaces to construction and demolition sites. 

“Most of the time it’s just me,” she said, adding, “I have my dolly with me, too.”

There have been times where she has had to hire help for particularly difficult items, such as pianos. 

“For the most part, I can figure it out,” Johnson said.

While the growth and success of her business is rewarding, Johnson also appreciates the experiences her job has provided. 

“I don’t always pick up junk,” she said, describing a recent job she had that led to a discovery of vintage items from an old seed company in Waseca. While clearing items, a garbage bag broke open, revealing personalized letter openers, Zippo-style lighters, and other novelty items.

She’s also enjoyed interactions with the people she’s met since starting her business, especially repeat customers who have expressed their satisfaction with the work she’s done for them.

“It means the world to me,” Johnson said. “When I started [this business], I didn’t think it would turn into what it has - I just hope it keeps going.”

Paradise Lakes Junk Removal has made a name for itself in the short time since it was established, however. At first, Johnson advertised her business on a website called Angie’s List - however, most of the bids were for jobs in the Twin Cities area. So, she researched some more and developed her marketing technique, which, along with the still effective word-of-mouth method in rural areas, has led to more local jobs - and growth for the business.

Recently, Johnson has purchased a new truck for her business, which she says is “an exciting addition”. She’s also worked with another Janesville business, Bin Pro, with potential future collaboration plans in the works.

Overall, Johnson is happy with how things have grown and progressed with her business and is excited for future growth.

“I plan for it to keep growing,” she said. “I hope someday it won’t just be me out there working and I can take a break and work more behind the scenes.”

Johnson did express a fondness for working on the sites she is hired to, though. Her chosen field has presented some challenges, but determination and a willingness to learn have allowed Johnson to overcome obstacles and provide a useful service to Waseca County along with several surrounding areas.

“There is no junk removal school,” she said. “It’s a lot of learning as I go and talking to who I know to ask.”

Paradise Lakes Junk Removal services Waseca, Blue Earth, Le Sueur, Rice, and Steele counties, along with surrounding areas depending on the job. For more information or a free estimate, visit the Paradise Lakes Junk Removal Facebook page.