At a glance, Maybe Joe’s Junk Removal may seem like another junk-hauling business, but spend a few minutes talking to Joe, and it’s clear this business is built on connection, service, and community. Joe, along with his wife Chantha, didn’t just take over an existing junk removal business—they embraced it and created a wave of impact for their community.
The Other “Joe” and the Start of a New Chapter
The story of Maybe Joe’s Junk Removal began when a friend introduced Joe to the original owner, also named Joe, who was ready to retire after a decade of hauling away unwanted items. The thought of shutting down didn’t sit well with Joe Baker and he felt a pull to carry on the legacy. In April 2016, Baker took over Maybe Joe’s, inspired by the opportunity to help people, ease their burdens, and create something meaningful in the local community. With a background in customer service, Chantha jumped right alongside Joe, bringing warmth and care to every interaction.
Finding Joy in the Everyday Surprises
As Joe says, it’s the variety that keeps him excited. “One minute, I’m hauling a couch out of someone’s basement, and the next, I’m cleaning up an Airbnb.” This willingness to adapt has become a hallmark of Maybe Joe’s. With each new job, there’s an element of surprise. Sometimes, it’s helping a family clean out an entire house. Other times, it’s taking on unexpected requests, like power-washing homes or even building patio furniture.
The Personal Touch
What sets Maybe Joe’s apart is the way Joe and Chantha treat each customer like family. Joe fondly recalls helping a recent widow with odds and ends around her home and eventually building a friendship with her. This isn’t just a job for them—it’s a way to make real connections. They know their customers by name, answer the phone with a friendly, “Hey, Kim, how are you doing?” and genuinely care about each person they help.
Challenges and “Figuring It Out”
Running a small business has its share of challenges, but Joe has a motto: “We’ll figure it out.” Early on, he was asked to move a cement truck from a property—a task that neither Joe nor Chantha had ever faced. But with patience and determination, they got it done, and the experience taught them that no challenge was too big if they approached it with a can-do attitude.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
When it comes to entrepreneurship, Joe’s advice is both practical and personal. He emphasizes the importance of truly knowing yourself and your goals. He’s seen others buy into successful businesses only to change too much and lose what made them work in the first place. Joe also advocates for valuing the people who work with you, explaining, “Your team is what provides for your family, so treat them accordingly. Show them appreciation, bring them donuts once in a while—let them know they matter.”
For Joe, every project has a unique story, and the satisfaction lies in making a difference in people’s lives. Whether he’s moving a heavy item, clearing out a space, or just being there for someone in need, Joe believes that each job is an opportunity to help, connect, and create something positive.
With Maybe Joe’s Junk Removal, Joe and Chantha have built more than a business—they’ve created a community. Their hands-on approach, friendly service, and genuine care for people are why their customers keep coming back, often with more than just junk to haul away. Be sure to check them out at maybejoes.com or give them a ring the next time you need your junk removed.
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