MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — What started as a side hustle hauling unwanted furniture in Virginia has since blossomed into a fully fledged business for 21-year-old entrepreneur Andreas Karagounis.
He launched Gen Z Junk Removal in 2025, managing a team of six locals who handle pickups at homes across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
But it was in 2022 that Karagounis first began to show interest in doing the odd junk removal job and refurbishing items that had a shot at a second life.
He and a friend made runs the summer before college and continued to do so whenever they returned home. The first piece of furniture that got the ball rolling was a couch.
"We were able to get some jobs when we were home, but nothing crazy," Karagounis told Patch.
In the first year of Gen Z Junk Removal's budding operation, the team has provided services to hundreds of customers across the region, picking up everything from couches to hot tubs, sheds, and even a piano.
The company eventually gained enough traction to recently fund the purchase of a dump truck.
Karagounis said the majority of the hauls take place in Northern Virginia, with D.C. and Maryland making up about 20% of the business.
Not only does the business give young people the chance to make a decent wage, but it also helps buck the stereotype that Gen Z kids lack workplace drive.
"My whole crew is Gen Z guys," Karagounis said. "Anyone can make up any stereotypes, but there's always outliers. I found guys that are willing to work long hours, and it allows them to make really good money in the summer."
"Being able to provide that for them has been one of my favorite things," he added, noting that the hauls allow his employees to be financially secure once they return to campus.
"That's extremely rewarding."
Looking to the future, Karagounis says he's eyeing expansion and the addition of another dump truck as business continues on its upward trajectory.
Asked about advice for others who may be considering launching their own business, he says entrepreneurs shouldn't get too hung up on what they don't know.
"A lot of people are scared to take the jump, and that's why they try to learn every single thing about it, but I think the most important thing is just to start," he said. "You will never know everything in the beginning."
"Just start getting your name out there, which is, in my opinion, the hardest thing."
As Karagounis continues to build on the brand, he's also making it his mission to use the business in a way that helps teens develop leadership and professional skills.
Residents interested in contracting Gen Z Junk Removal can do so online, or by calling (202) 809-9833.
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