Pine + Pixel | Jessica Dietrich

Pine + Pixel | Jessica Dietrich

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Jessica Dietrich, founder and principal designer of Pine & Pixel, to talk about building a meaningful brand, navigating unexpected layoffs, and stepping fully into entrepreneurship. Jessica shares her journey from corporate graphic design to running a successful branding and website design studio, along with powerful insights on trusting your intuition, overcoming identity shifts, and creating aligned businesses that truly resonate.  In this episode you will hear: * [01:30] – Inspired by her father’s influence, Jessica reflects on how her love for design began and the story behind the name Pine & Pixel. * [03:23] – Following an unexpected layoff, she shares the emotional journey of navigating shock, sadness, and self-doubt, and how she ultimately reframed it into an opportunity to fully step into her business. * [10:05] – Rather than taking a safer, part-time route, a pivotal decision was made to go all in on building her business from the ground up. * [12:56] – Learning to move forward without having every answer became a turning point in accepting the situation and embracing uncertainty. * [20:22] – By sharing her story openly, she now supports others who are navigating similar challenges in their own journeys. * [24:53] – Stepping into entrepreneurship felt unexpectedly natural, aligning seamlessly with both her skills and passions. * [28:01] – Flexibility, freedom, and being more present with her children are just a few of the reasons she loves running her own business. * [29:33] – Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at her process when working with clients on branding and website design projects. * [30:38] – A strong emphasis is placed on strategy, user experience, and ensuring every design aligns with the ideal client. * [32:33] – Through recent project examples, she illustrates how intentional and thoughtful design can directly impact business growth. * [34:13] – A local business program played a key role in helping her refine her strategy while building confidence as an entrepreneur. * [35:42] – With mentorship, business planning, and grant opportunities, the program offers tangible support for growing businesses. * [39:48] – The power of community shines through as she shares her appreciation for collaboration over competition within the local business scene. * [41:25] – Current design trends are explored, along with the importance of balancing what’s popular with what remains timeless. * [43:01] – Each designer’s unique style becomes a magnet for aligned clients, reinforcing the value of authenticity in creative work. * [45:30] – Jessica encourages entrepreneurs to seek expert support when feeling stuck, especially when it comes to branding and website strategy. Special Offer: As a thank-you to the At Home Co. podcast community, Jessica is offering a complimentary strategy session or website audit to the first few listeners who reach out. Simply mention the At Home Co. podcast when you connect with her to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity.  Connect with Jessica: Instagram: @pineandpixel Let's Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co [https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co] Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: • Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent [https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent?igsh=YTFqMzduNGY0anBj] Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com [Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com] 519.497.9256 • Den1880 Website: https://www.den1880.co [https://www.den1880.co] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co [https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co?igsh=MWVvaXYxODVnYmltcQ==]

Faiczak Food & Fitness | Connor Faiczak

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Connor Faiczak, the owner of Faiczak Food and Fitness, a personal training studio with meal prep services focused on building healthy lives through education, movement, and nutrition. Connor shares his inspiring journey from a teen athlete facing injury to combining his passion for kinesiology and culinary expertise into a thriving business that transforms the lives of his clients.  In this episode you will hear: * [02:20] Connor shares his heartwarming story of helping his great uncle lose 65 pounds and regain mobility, emphasizing the power of small, consistent movements  * [06:39] An overview of Faiczak Food and Fitness, including the private gym environment designed for personalized training and open, judgment-free conversations  * [09:48] Connor explains how his culinary background and passion for food led to offering meal prep services alongside personalized fitness training * [14:34] Connor shares his fitness philosophy: simplify movement, integrate activity into everyday life, and focus on fundamentals for sustainable results * [17:50] He discusses balancing fitness with lifestyle, allowing treats in moderation, and creating habits that are achievable and enjoyable * [24:05] Connor emphasizes individualized exercise programming, combining strength, mobility, and rehab exercises tailored to each client’s needs * [27:47] Nutrition strategies: creating sustainable food habits, simplifying choices, and making small adjustments for healthier meals without deprivation * [34:13] Guidance on making mindful choices when eating out, balancing enjoyment with nutritional goals, and managing stress for overall health * [42:41] Raising children with positive relationships with food and exercise, setting a strong example without imposing rigid rules * [48:55] Connor talks about opening his gym, the early challenges, and the strategies that helped him attract and retain clients * [50:12] The value of education and personalization in fitness, creating accountability and long-term lifestyle change for clients * [55:09] Balancing culinary creativity with healthy meals, including modifying restaurant-style dishes for better nutrition * [01:00:29] Connor shares his vision for expanding into schools and community events to educate children about movement and health Connect with Connor: Instagram: @faiczakfoodfitness Let's Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co [https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co] Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: • Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent [https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent?igsh=YTFqMzduNGY0anBj] Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com [Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com] 519.497.9256 • Den1880 Website: https://www.den1880.co [https://www.den1880.co] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co [https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co?igsh=MWVvaXYxODVnYmltcQ==]

Saltbox Mortgage Agent | Amanda Walczyk

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Amanda Walczyk of Saltbox Mortgages to break down what homeowners need to know about mortgage renewals in 2026, why early planning is critical, and how having the right team can completely transform your real estate journey. They also share a real client success story that highlights the power of collaboration between a realtor, mortgage agent, and financial planner, along with real-world lessons from complex transactions. In this episode you will hear: * [01:18] Amanda explains why there is a surge in mortgage renewals this year and how increased volume is impacting timelines. * [02:29] Amanda shares essential tips, including why self-employed individuals need up-to-date taxes and how job changes can affect mortgage approvals. * [03:22] They emphasize that starting the renewal process at least three months in advance allows for better options, lower stress, and stronger outcomes. * [04:07] Amanda walks through a real example where limited time reduced lender options and led to more expensive solutions. * [05:14] They explain how open mortgages can offer flexibility but often come with significantly higher interest rates. * [07:00] Cher and Amanda discuss how early planning helps eliminate uncertainty and reduces the mental burden of major financial decisions. * [08:09] They highlight the importance of working with professionals who collaborate and communicate effectively on your behalf. * [08:52] They share a detailed client story where strategic planning allowed homeowners to keep their property as a rental while purchasing their dream home. * [11:23] Cher explains why they requested a longer financing condition and how it ultimately protected the client. * [13:37] Amanda discusses why taking a conservative approach can help prevent costly surprises and ensure smoother transactions. * [16:00] They share real-life examples of unexpected issues, including title complications and last-minute banking errors. * [18:17] Amanda explains how mortgage approvals now take longer than in previous years due to increased scrutiny and volume. * [20:56] Cher and Amanda discuss why it is important for professionals to stay within their expertise and collaborate rather than overlap roles. * [24:29] Amanda highlights some favourite local businesses, including The Boathouse where her and Cher recently hosted an event Connect with Amanda: Instagram: @saltboxmortgage_agent Let's Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co [https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co] Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: • Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent [https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent?igsh=YTFqMzduNGY0anBj] Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com [Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com] 519.497.9256 • Den1880 Website: https://www.den1880.co [https://www.den1880.co] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co [https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co?igsh=MWVvaXYxODVnYmltcQ==]

Christine Wolfl | HONEY Events, Daisy Baby Foundation, GLAM AS YOU ARE

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Christine Wolfl, a marketing strategist, storyteller, and co-founder of Honey Events and Design and The Daisy Baby Foundation. Christine shares her journey of multi-passionate entrepreneurship, from event planning to fertility advocacy. Listen as she discusses how personal experiences fuel her professional success and her vision for the future of LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and accessibility in family-building.  In this episode you will hear: * [02:03] From wedding planning to creating meaningful experiences with Honey Events and Design, Christine shares how she and her partner fill the gap for intentional event planning * [03:10] Christine discusses how Honey Events designs events that focus on how the event feels, not just how it looks * [05:56] The story behind Christine's own wedding, showcasing how personal details and guest experience make a lasting impact * [08:35] Christine shares how the lessons from wedding planning can apply to corporate and nonprofit events * [10:01] Challenges Christine faced as she transitioned into the event planning world and how her background in marketing and storytelling has helped her navigate the industry * [13:05] Learn about the annual fundraiser Glam As You Are, an inclusive event created to support the LGBTQIA+ community and raise funds for Grand River Pride and the Daisy Baby Foundation * [18:25] Christine emphasizes that Glam As You Are is for both the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, creating a space where everyone feels seen and valued * [23:37] Christine discusses her fertility journey and how it led to the creation of the Daisy Baby Foundation, which aims to make parenthood more accessible for LGBTQIA+ families * [31:13] Christine highlights the cost of IVF and other fertility treatments and how Daisy Baby Foundation is working to alleviate some of those financial burdens for LGBTQIA+ families * [40:48] The goal of the Daisy Baby Foundation's grant program to support LGBTQIA+ families with fertility costs, focusing on dignity and accessibility * [43:45] Christine shares her hopes for growing Honey Events and Design, including expanding to more types of events beyond weddings, such as celebrations of life and charity events * [47:09] Christine talks about the future of Glam As You Are, including growing the event to more cities and expanding visibility for LGBTQIA+ families * [48:35] Christine outlines the long-term goals of the Daisy Baby Foundation, from raising awareness to providing financial grants to families in need Special Offer: Listeners can use the code ATHOME to receive a 25% discount when you purchase two tickets for Glam As You Are. Connect with Christine: Instagram: @honeyeventsanddesign @daisybabyfoundation @glamasyouare Let's Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co [https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co] Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: • Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent [https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent?igsh=YTFqMzduNGY0anBj] Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com [Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com] 519.497.9256 • Den1880 Website: https://www.den1880.co [https://www.den1880.co] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co [https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co?igsh=MWVvaXYxODVnYmltcQ==]

Morgan | The Three

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Morgan, the owner and operator of The Three, a health-focused eatery located in the Marsland Centre in uptown Waterloo. Morgan shares the journey behind her business, her passion for health, and how she integrates holistic nutrition into the meals she serves. The Three, established in 2021, offers health-conscious meals, a meal prep service, catering, and care packages.  In this episode you will hear: * [03:48] A discussion on Morgan’s favourite dishes at The Three that she brought, including the Spring Into It Salad and the Fiesta Bowl, and the importance of offering comfort food with a healthy twist.  * [06:14] The story behind the name “The Three” and its connection to Morgan's hockey number and the philosophy of mind-body-spirit health. * [08:31] Morgan’s approach to customer service and how she builds meaningful connections with customers, especially through personalized menu advice. * [10:41] The concept of rotating and static menu items at The Three and Morgan’s favourites like the Harvest Crunch Salad and Pad Thai. * [13:42] Local suppliers Morgan works with, including Eby Manor for their dairy products, Rogers Ranch for local beef, McIntosh Farms for pasture raised chicken and her efforts to support small, local businesses. * [18:31] Morgan’s reflections on the challenges of owning a food business, especially navigating personal identity and managing a business through tough times. * [23:09] The emotional toll of running a small business and the reality of balancing personal life with entrepreneurship. * [27:03] Advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs on starting small and testing ideas before diving in. * [30:11] Managing a team, the importance of leadership, and how Morgan nurtures her employees. * [35:02] Morgan’s thoughts on personal growth, leadership, and creating a healthy business culture. * [35:55] What Morgan loves about running The Three, including the beautiful food and the opportunity to learn and grow each day. * [43:00] The challenges small business owners face with fluctuating costs, like the price of ingredients, and how it impacts the bottom line. * [45:51] The community in Waterloo Region, what Morgan loves about the area, and how small businesses contribute so much heart and energy to the area * [47:56] Morgan shares her favourite local businesses in the region such as Full Circle Foods, Legacy Greens, and why it’s so important to support local farmers Special Offer: Use the code ATHOME33 to get 33% off your meal at The Three, available both online and in-store. Connect with Morgan: Instagram: @thethreekw Website: https://www.thethreewellness.com/ Let's Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co [https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co] Website: www.athomecompany.ca [http://www.athomecompany.ca] Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast [https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast] Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca [hello@athomecompany.ca] Thank you to our Sponsors: • Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent [https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent?igsh=YTFqMzduNGY0anBj] Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com [Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com] 519.497.9256 • Den1880 Website: https://www.den1880.co [https://www.den1880.co] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co [https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co?igsh=MWVvaXYxODVnYmltcQ==]