We recently connected with Stefanie Lew and have shared our conversation below.

Stefanie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Talk to us about building your team? What was it like? What were some of the key challenges and what was your process like?

In the beginning, it was just me—with my husband helping out when he could outside of his 9-to-5 job. We were advised early on to hire a business development manager, which we did, but if I could go back in time, I’d start with an operations manager instead. Strong systems and processes are truly the backbone of a smooth-running business, and I’ve learned firsthand that operational excellence sets the stage for everything else to thrive.

When it came time to hire our first crew, I posted two roles on CareerPlug—one for a driver/lugger and one for a lugger only. In hindsight, I would’ve focused solely on hiring driver/luggers, since cross-training every team member simplifies scheduling and improves accountability.

Our interview process is intentionally multi-step: a quick introductory call, followed by a Zoom interview, then an in-person meeting, and finally a trial day on the job. After interviewing more than 50 candidates, I found two incredible team members who not only set the tone for our culture but went on to refer two more amazing additions.

Today, our crew feels like a true work family. They care about each other, take pride in their work, and share the mission of keeping items out of landfills. Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for how far we’ve come and even more excited for where we’re headed.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m the owner of The Junkluggers of Walnut Creek & Lamorinda, a locally owned and operated eco-friendly junk removal business. I launched this company because I saw a real need in our community for a hauling service that doesn’t just “get rid” of things—but gives them a second life. My background is in programming, finance, fashion, and supply chain, but I’ve always been passionate about sustainability, design, and community impact. Starting The Junkluggers allowed me to blend all of those passions into one mission-driven business.

At our core, we provide full-service junk removal for homes and businesses—everything from furniture, appliances, and e-waste to construction debris and estate cleanouts. But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to landfill diversion. We don’t just haul items away; we carefully donate, recycle, upcycle and repurpose everything we can through local nonprofits, shelters, schools, and even animal sanctuaries.

What makes me most proud is seeing how our work ripples through the community. A single job might mean helping a family clear out after a move, supporting a senior who’s downsizing, or keeping hundreds of pounds of usable goods out of the landfill. Our team approaches every project with professionalism, empathy, and heart—qualities that have earned us repeat customers and long-term relationships with property managers, realtors, schools, and local nonprofits.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about The Junkluggers, it’s that we’re not just a junk removal company—we’re a sustainability partner. We make the process of letting go easier, greener, and more meaningful. Our mission is simple but powerful: to make eco-friendly disposal accessible to everyone while building a cleaner, more connected community.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A big lesson I had to unlearn was being afraid to make mistakes. After years in the corporate world, I was conditioned to color inside the lines—to triple-check every detail, follow established processes, and avoid missteps at all costs. Perfection was rewarded, and mistakes were something to fear.

But when I started my own business, that mindset had to change quickly. Entrepreneurship is a vertical learning curve—fast, steep, and full of trial and error. I realized that mistakes aren’t failures; they’re feedback. Each one is a data point that helps me refine, streamline, and ultimately grow stronger as a leader.

The key has been to keep a positive attitude and focus on the takeaway: What’s the learning here, and how can I use it to improve? It’s not about how many times you fall—it’s about how many times you get back up, and how you evolve with every stumble.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been showing up consistently in my community—with positivity, kindness, and sincerity. I believe people do business with those they trust, and trust is built through genuine connection. Whether I’m volunteering, attending local events, or supporting other small businesses, I make it a point to lead with a go-giver mindset and a collaborative spirit.

I also focus on active listening—understanding what each client truly needs and staying nimble in finding solutions when challenges arise. That combination of community engagement, empathy, and follow-through has helped The Junkluggers build lasting relationships and a reputation for reliability and care.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.junkluggers.com/walnut-creek-lamorinda/
• Instagram: @junkluggerswalnutcreek
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JunkluggersWalnutCreekLamorinda/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanie-lew-453865/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBniFtNPeFIp0meupQve8ZQ?app=desktop
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-junkluggers-of-walnut-creek-and-lamorinda-moraga-4