By: Alexandra Perez

Robby and Kelly Dinero never expected their next chapter would involve hauling away junk, but their leap into the world of veteran-owned junk removal with JDog has proven to be more than a career shift. It’s a calling grounded in service, family, and faith.

The Dineros’ journey began in the gym business, where they coached, trained, and mentored for over a decade. “Service is in our blood,” says Robby. “Whether it’s me as a Marine, Kelly as a teacher, or either of us running a gym, it’s always been about helping others improve their lives.” Kelly agrees: “Our work has always centered on relationships and impact. Junk removal just became another way to serve.”

A Leap of Faith at 52

After nearly 11 years of running a successful gym, Robby made the bold decision to pivot into a new industry. “People thought I was crazy changing careers at 52,” he admits. But for the Dineros, purpose outweighed comfort. They aligned with JDog, a veteran-focused franchise rooted in the values they already lived by: respect, integrity, and trust.

“I instantly knew we found the right business,” says Kelly. “JDog’s mission aligned perfectly with ours, and we knew we could grow something special while continuing to serve others.”

From Marine Corps to Mission Control

Robby’s Marine Corps background proved to be an invaluable asset in their new venture. “It’s a mission-driven business,” he explains. “Every day, we face new challenges, unknown obstacles, and tight timelines,but we always complete the mission. That mindset from the military never left me.”

In the field, that means everything from navigating hoarder homes to demolishing a dilapidated garage, lifting collapsed garage debris. “It’s never just about the junk,” Robby says. “It’s about restoring space, peace, and dignity.”

Turning Chaos into Compassion

Many of their clients are going through life’s toughest moments, downsizing, grieving a loss, or navigating years of clutter. For the Dineros, each project is personal.

“We had two sisters trying to clean out their late mother’s house,” recalls Kelly. “They were overwhelmed and had no idea where to start. With patience and empathy, we helped them sort through decades of belongings and gave them peace of mind.”

That level of care defines their approach. “We’re not just hauling items,” says Robby. “We’re showing up for people when they need it most.”

Community-Focused Generosity

For Robby and Kelly, junk removal isn’t just about clearing out space, it’s about restoring dignity. That’s why they’ve made “pass-through generosity” a cornerstone of their mission. Instead of sending everything to the landfill, they intentionally save gently used furniture, appliances, and household items that still have value. These pieces are then cleaned and delivered to local families in need through a trusted network of pastors, nonprofit leaders, and community partners.

“We’re in homes every day where we see items someone else is praying for,” Kelly explains. “A bed, a table, a working microwave, it might seem small, but it changes everything for a family starting over.”

One moment that stands out for the Dineros was helping a mother who had just escaped a domestic violence situation. “She had nothing,” Robby says. “We brought essentials from a cleanout job earlier that week. Her gratitude, it was overwhelming. That’s when you realize this work is bigger than us.”

It’s a quiet form of generosity, but it’s rooted in action. “We’ve helped kids get off the floor and into real beds,” Kelly says. “We’ve watched families cry over a simple kitchen table where they can finally share a meal. That’s the ripple effect we want to create.”

A True Family Business

From running a crew to pitching in at the shop to managing social media, the Dinero kids are hands-on in the business. “It’s not just a family-owned business, it’s a family-run one,” says Kelly. “We’re teaching our children the values of hard work, service, and faith in action.”

Robby adds, “It’s one thing to talk about values,it’s another to live them out daily. That’s what this business allows us to do.”

Faith as Their Foundation

Their business philosophy is built on more than operational systems, it’s built on faith. “We’re guided by a deeper ‘why,’” Robby says. “Our goal isn’t just to grow financially,it’s to serve our community with the heart of Jesus.”

And that sense of calling is what keeps them grounded through the ups and downs. “Faith gives us the courage to take risks and the strength to keep going,” says Kelly. “That’s what makes all the difference.”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For fellow veterans or families thinking about launching a business, the Dineros have simple advice: start now.

“Don’t wait for the perfect moment,” Robby urges. “Have faith, know your why, and push through. You’ll grow through every challenge.” Kelly adds, “And once you begin, don’t quit. Your perseverance is what will carry you through.”

Creating a Legacy of Service

Robby and Kelly’s journey from fitness to junk removal may seem unconventional, but it’s a powerful reminder that purpose can be found in unexpected places. Their work with JDog is helping families clear space, recover peace of mind, and find relief during overwhelming times.

“Every job is an opportunity to serve someone with compassion and excellence,” says Robby. “That’s what keeps us going.”

From building a business to building a legacy, Robby and Kelly Dinero are showing what’s possible when service leads the way.