After returning home from his freshman year at Columbia University, Daniel could not find a summer job. He borrowed his mother’s vacuum, buckets, and brushes, rented a carpet-cleaning machine for $15, and launched “Danny’s Carpet Cleaning Service.”

Daniel sought customers by going door-to-door. Unfortunately, many residents would not open their doors, so he changed the name of the company to “The Dirt Patrol.” Daniel was the self-proclaimed “Chief Grime Fighter of Los Angeles.” His vehicles were painted to resemble police cars. With this new branding, homeowners opened their doors and welcomed Daniel and his team, the Grime Fighters, into their dirty homes to clean their carpets, drapes, and upholstery.

Los Angeles radio stations invited him on the air to talk about his company and “The Campaign Against Grime.” This was free publicity that he otherwise could not afford.

Daniel learned that providing a basic service can lead to a successful business and that creativity can overcome obstacles.