At Home In Waterloo Region with Cheryl Goetz

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==]

Kathleen Beech | Personal Financial Planner

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Kathleen Beech, an experienced financial planner at IG Wealth Management. With nearly two decades in the financial industry, Kathleen brings a client-focused, non-judgmental approach to financial planning. Tune in as Kathleen discusses her unique mantra of "live for now, while preparing for your future," the importance of understanding your financial decisions, and how she educates her clients about the implications of their financial choices.  In this episode you will hear: * [02:40] The mantra “Live now while preparing for your future” is introduced, encouraging the idea of enjoying life today while making smart choices for a secure retirement. * [06:38] The importance of balancing financial planning with enjoying life is emphasized, from budgeting for vacations to making sure you’re savoring the present moment. * [11:30] Trust and comfort are built with clients by offering non-judgmental guidance, making it easier for people to openly address their financial anxieties. * [15:25] The value of working with a financial planner to create a practical, tax-efficient savings and investment plan is highlighted * [16:32] A journey from a part-time job at Money Mart to becoming a financial planner shows how real-world experience can shape a passion for helping others achieve financial peace of mind. * [23:03] A shift from working in banking to IG Wealth Management is discussed, emphasizing how the client-first approach and focus on personalized financial planning align with core values. * [23:30] Cutting-edge financial tools at IG Wealth Management are introduced, showing how they help clients visualize their financial future  * [25:10] The use of advanced technology at IG allows clients to see detailed financial snapshots, helping them make more informed decisions about their investments and retirement goals. * [30:27] Financial planning software enables personalized, data-driven insights that help clients make informed decisions on major financial moves * [41:42] The growing wealth of women in Canada is discussed, urging women to take control of their finances, advocate for themselves, and educate themselves on financial matters. * [55:42] The importance of having conversations with parents about estate planning, taxes, and asset protection is emphasized, ensuring smooth transitions and avoiding costly mistakes. Special Offer: Kathleen is offering a free IG Living Plan, which includes a portfolio analysis and a second opinion on your current investment, insurance, and estate planning. Take advantage of this valuable opportunity to ensure you're on the right track for your financial future. Connect with Kathleen: Instagram: @thewealthbeech 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==]

Click Photography | Chris Kufske

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Chris Kufske, an Ontario-based photographer with over 21 years of experience capturing portraits, events, and everyday moments. Chris shares her journey from working as a child and youth worker to building a photography business rooted in storytelling and connection. She reflects on the evolution of her work, the importance of relationships and referrals, and how creativity continues to shape her path. Chris also opens up about her recent exploration into art journaling and fine art photography. In this episode you will hear: * [02:15] Chris shares her background as a child and youth worker and how she transitioned into photography * [04:05] Photographing her brother’s wedding in Italy and assisting another photographer helped launch her career * [06:03] The story behind the name “Click Photography” and starting her business * [08:33] Early challenges balancing motherhood, long hours, and building a business * [09:53] Advice for photographers: finding your own style and avoiding comparison especially locally  * [12:44] Building a business through word-of-mouth referrals and long-term client relationships * [15:18] Reflecting on longevity in the industry and evolving mindset over time to go with the flow  * [19:22] Funny and memorable moments from shoots, including unexpected situations during events * [24:58] Chris shares her art journaling workshops and creative process outside of photography * [36:00] Chris explains fine art photography and her interest in creating prints for clients * [38:19] What makes her business unique, focusing on client experience and capturing personality * [43:08] How to choose the right photographer through connection, communication, and reviewing their work * [48:01] Chris shares her future plans, including moving out west, expanding her art and print work, and continuing in the creative field * [50:38] Chris shares some of her favourite local businesses such as Fiddleheads, BJ Photos, her love of all the thrift stores, and Pho Tran Connect with Chris: Instagram: @click.photography.chris.kufske Website: clickphotography.ca  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==]