Today’s interview is with a capital b Boss Bitch. Earlier this year, I was using a terrible cleaning service, and like most of us, I kept using them because I had no idea who else to hire. Then I remembered Candace. I had met her at a holiday party and remembered she owned a home cleaning company, so I called her. Y’all. A) She answered the phone. B) She DROVE TO MY HOUSE and had me walk her through every room, showing her what hadn’t been cleaned, what had been RUINED, then she sat down with me, assured me I don’t have unreasonable expectations and explained how her employees clean, how she pays them, who she hires, etc. I was like, oh, is this how you run a business? Noted!

Duh, I started using Team Clean, and I love them. In addition to being the nicest people in the world and being so nice to my menagerie of pets, they give you a checklist when they’re finished that you go over together and sign off on. Do you know how much I love that? A checklist! Anyway, as I’ve gotten to know Candace more, it is not surprising that her employees are nice people who do a good job - because she pays them well, and she runs a tight ship. Boss Bitch, I’m telling you. Meet Candace Mills!

What do you do and what is the name of your business?  

I own a green cleaning company here in Nashville, as well as New York. The company here is Team Clean Nashville and the one in New York is Team Clean NYC.  

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?  

My father told me to learn every aspect of whatever job I’m doing. I love this advice! So I’ve worn all of the hats at my companies.

Can you name the biggest lesson you’ve learned?  

Don’t take feedback too personally. Constructive feedback empowers, informs and inspires. Don’t let criticism steal your thunder.

What is your greatest success, or something you’re most proud of related to what you do?  

I started Memphis’ first green cleaning company! Two Chicks and a Broom was my first cleaning business. All my pals, and pals of pals, were Chicks; guys were Chicks. It was the best of times. I learned so much.  

Do you have a morning or nighttime ritual?

I love getting up early with the birds to answer emails whilst taking breaks to read the news. It’s my quiet time. High Garden Foxfire tea and me!

What helps when you’re stuck? Do you have a motto or quote that inspires you?  

Oh, so many. One of phrases I use often is to not worry about what you can’t control.

Worry aint’ worth it!  

What does self care look like in your life?  

I live near a beautiful park that I walk through often. And I love yoga and exercise of all kinds. But my silent walks through the park save the day.  

How do you feel about social media?  

It’s a powerful tool that connects us all to one another on a very dynamic platform! I love it. I can keep in touch with friends all over the planet, get news quickly, hear about new businesses or whatever in lightning time. Just don’t overdose on it. Books and real conversations are paramount.

Are there any women who helped pave the way for your success?  

Monica Nassif, who started Caldrea and Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day. I carried her products in Memphis and we used them in our clients’ homes before you saw them for sale everywhere. Clients really loved them. My friend Judi Rosen in NYC. She’s a fashion designer that makes the greatest jeans of all time. And every woman who has worked for me that went out to start their own cleaning business. There are a lot! They call to thank me for inspiring them, all kinds of nice words that make me feel good.

Lastly, and most important, what is your favorite podcast and snack?  

The Best Show with Tom Scharpling and cashews.

P.S. Meet my last bitch: Melissse Tokic, Filmmaker and Therapist!

P.P.S. See a full list of all my Bitches here!