From Chile to CEO: Guacolda Zinsmeyer’s Journey Building Emerald City Cleaning

When you think of leadership, grit, and heart in business, Guacolda Zinsmeyer stands tall as a shining example. As the founder and CEO of Emerald City Cleaning, she has built one of Seattle’s most trusted commercial and residential cleaning companies, serving hundreds of restaurants, high-end homes, and corporate clients, including tech giants like Meta and other leading companies in Seattle and Bellevue.

Guacolda launched Emerald City Cleaning in 2013 with a clear vision: to raise the standards of cleanliness, professionalism, and care in an industry often overlooked. What began as a solo venture has evolved into a powerful operation with a large team of trained professionals, committed to eco-friendly practices and client satisfaction.

Her company is proudly OMWBE-certified (Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises), ISSA CIMS Certified, and Green Building Certified—a rare triple distinction in the cleaning industry. These credentials reflect Emerald City Cleaning’s commitment to high-performance operations, environmentally conscious practices, and top-tier service.

But behind the certifications and success is a personal story of resilience. As an immigrant from Chile, Guacolda balanced the demands of launching and growing a company while raising her three now-adult children. With the support and love of her husband, Jon, she built her business from the ground up—often working long nights, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and never compromising her values.

Today, Emerald City Cleaning is a respected name across Seattle and Bellevue, known not just for delivering sparkling spaces but for the integrity, warmth, and leadership behind the scenes.

Guacolda continues to inspire through new ventures like the Woman’s Warrior – Mujer Guerrera Podcast, where she highlights the voices of powerful women, just like herself, who have overcome, built, and thrived.

Her story reminds us all: success is built with courage, compassion, and a relentless drive to uplift others—one clean space, one strong woman at a time.