We recently connected with Janellie Maldonado and have shared our conversation below.

Janellie, appreciate you joining us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

I rarely occasionally wonder what life would be like with a regular job, and I always come back to the same conclusion. I have found both my passion and my purpose and I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. The challenges push me to grow, and the wins, no matter how small, reaffirm that I’m on the right path. To me, happiness is a skill you must master and being a business owner has brought me a deep sense of fulfillment. The last time I seriously considered what it would be like to have a regular job was when I faced the challenge of expanding my brand to North Carolina. The first three months were tough navigating a new market, building brand awareness from scratch, and dealing with the uncertainty that comes with growth. There were moments of doubt, but instead of dwelling on them, I focused on doing everything I possibly could to promote my brand and establish a presence. It was a challenging period, but pushing through it reinforced my belief in the journey I’ve chosen.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Janellie, to some Jay to others Nelly. And I am the founder and owner of Smart Clean Auto, the nation’s leading auto detail service for wellness. I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, and my journey into the auto detailing industry began with a simple realization: our cars are an extension of our personal space and well-being, yet they often don’t get the attention they deserve when it comes to cleanliness and health. I saw an opportunity to not only provide high-quality detailing services but to also educate people on the health benefits of a clean car environment, such as reducing allergens, bacteria, and stress associated with clutter and dirt.

At Smart Clean Auto, we specialize in mobile auto detailing services, offering premium cleaning solutions right at our clients’ doorsteps. Our services go beyond just making a car look good; we focus on deep cleaning techniques that promote a healthier driving experience, using eco-friendly products and meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or a health-conscious individual, we help our clients maintain a cleaner, healthier vehicle without disrupting their schedules.

What truly sets us apart is our mission-driven approach. We’re not just another detailing service; we’re building a community focused on wellness, and we want our clients to see their vehicles as part of their overall lifestyle of health and productivity. This philosophy has driven us to expand our reach, starting in Dallas, Texas, and recently launching services in Raleigh, North Carolina, with plans to grow even further nationwide.

I’m really proud of the impact Smart Clean Auto is making not only in transforming vehicles but also in creating employment opportunities for legal immigrants and fostering a team that’s dedicated to excellence and customer satisfaction. Our business stands for quality, integrity, and a commitment to helping people live better through cleaner, healthier vehicles.

For those looking to experience a true difference in auto detailing, Smart Clean Auto is more than a service; it’s a commitment to your well-being. Whether you’re interested in maintaining a pristine vehicle or enhancing your health through cleanliness, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

In 2019, I started detailing cars as a simple side gig, never imagining it would turn into something much bigger. Growing up, I learned the value of hard work, firsthand, being the daughter of hardworking legal immigrants who dedicated their lives to the cleaning industry. Cleaning wasn’t just a chore in our household; it was a way of life, a source of pride, and a lesson in perseverance. When I discovered auto detailing, I quickly realized it aligned perfectly with the work ethic my parents installed in me: dedication, attention to detail, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

With only $1,500, I made the decision to invest it into starting my business. I used that money as my initial capital, purchasing supplies, marketing my services, and laying the foundation for what would eventually become Smart Clean Auto. I knew that every dollar counted, so I focused on providing the best service possible and reinvesting every bit of profit back into my growing business.

Fast-forward five years, and that side gig has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined. Along the way, I invested in myself, earning certifications in auto detailing, ceramic coating, finance, and business to ensure I had the knowledge and skills to turn my passion into a sustainable venture.

In 2023, I took a leap of faith and founded Smart Clean Auto with a mission to not only provide exceptional service but to promote wellness through clean vehicles. Today, in 2025, we proudly operate in Dallas, Texas, and have expanded to Raleigh, North Carolina, proving that with hard work, resilience, and a clear vision, anything is possible. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that no dream is too big if you’re willing to put in the effort. 

Faith plus human effort equals a 
miracle. 

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Even though we’re a small team right now three team members in Dallas, Texas, and myself here in Raleigh, NC, I’ve come to realize that unity, open communication, and making sure everyone feels truly heard and valued are the driving forces behind our success. I’m really proud of my team, not just for their hard work, but for who they are as individuals with their own dreams and ambitions. I’m not just building a business; I am creating a community where everyone is supported, empowered, and inspired to achieve their personal and professional goals. This is just the beginning, and I’m committed to ensuring that everyone who joins us feels like they’re part of something bigger something meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://smartcleanauto.com
• Instagram: smartcleanautousa
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smartcleanautousa