In today’s episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Beckie Prime, founder of Becks Broth, to discuss how a passion for healing and wellness evolved into a thriving, community-rooted business. Beckie shares how a transformative health journey led her to discover the power of food as medicine—and how that journey ultimately became the catalyst for launching her own broth company. With an unshakable commitment to transparency, community, and real nourishment, Beckie opens up about motherhood, entrepreneurship, and the lessons she’s learned while building a values-driven business from the ground up.

This conversation is an empowering reminder of what’s possible when personal passion meets purpose—and why the slow simmer of broth can offer more than just flavor.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [01:15] How Beckie’s health crisis in her early 20s inspired her to seek out food-based healing.
• [03:00] The birth of Becks Broth—how one mom’s passion project became a local wellness staple.
• [05:45] What makes Becks Broth different: local ingredients, transparency, and zero shortcuts.
• [10:30] The power of trusting your intuition while growing a business as a mother of three.
• [15:50] Beckie’s advice on starting where you are and building a business with heart.
• [21:40] How Waterloo Region’s community spirit helped shape Becks Broth—and continues to fuel it.
• [27:15] What’s next for Beckie and her mission to make healing nourishment more accessible.

Tune in to hear how Beckie is blending wellness, motherhood, and entrepreneurship in the most soul-nourishing way. If you believe in the power of real food and community, this episode is for you.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

Beckie’s Links:

Use code ATHOMECO20 for 20% off Becks Broth!

Instagram: @becksbroth

Website: becksbroth.com

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Elaine Decleir, the energetic founder of Joy Media and the creative mind behind The Local Advocate. With a love for community, travel, and tacos, Elaine brings a refreshing approach to marketing—focusing on meaningful connection, playful strategy, and storytelling. From her early days managing Otis the Swan’s Instagram to launching hyperlocal campaigns across Waterloo Region, Elaine shares her journey into entrepreneurship, how she’s helping small businesses shine, and why bringing joy into our work matters.

Elaine’s warmth, insight, and commitment to community shine in every story, making this a must-listen for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone who loves supporting local.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [01:00] Elaine’s recent travels in Asia and her realization about how her Filipino heritage influences her brand values.
• [06:45] The importance of play in marketing—and how it transforms even the most serious industries.
• [10:00] How Elaine’s journey from tech layoffs to freelancing led her to create Joy Media.
• [16:15] Why storytelling and meaningful content matter more than trends on social media.
• [23:00] How Elaine sets boundaries with social media to avoid burnout—and her tips for others.
• [32:30] Her favorite project ideas using gamification to create real-life connection and fun.
• [37:00] Why now is the time to support local restaurants and explore all the Waterloo Region has to offer.
• [44:40] Elaine’s “best of” list for everything from tacos to paddleboarding and hidden gems like the KW Library of Things.

Tune in to hear how Elaine is building joyful, meaningful marketing in the heart of Waterloo Region—one story and one local connection at a time. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who loves supporting local!

Elaine’s Links:

Instagram: @joymedia.io

@thelocaladvocate

Website: https://www.joymedia.io/

https://www.thelocaladvocate.ca/

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Maddy Aucoin, a website copywriter, entrepreneur, and public speaker who helps business owners write copy rooted in trust, transparency, and empathy. A former higher education professional turned two-time business owner, Maddy shares her journey from crafting inclusive wooden toys to finding her stride in helping brands tell their stories through words that feel authentic. She offers invaluable insight into building brand messaging that resonates, challenges industry norms, and supports meaningful client relationships.

With a passion for helping entrepreneurs who don’t fit the mold, Maddy breaks down how "honest copy" can be both strategic and soulful. Whether you're a creative, a professional, or just someone who wants to market from a place of integrity, this conversation is packed with both heart and practical tools.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:00] From academia to toy making to finding her voice in brand messaging
• [06:00] Helping the “Cool Professionals” stand out. From supporting lawyers, accountants, and therapists who break the mold
• [10:20] What honest copy really means. Writing that’s empathetic, specific, and avoids sleazy tactics
• [13:00] How to avoid rent-shaming and instead lead with compassion
• [27:00] The biggest pet peeves in online marketing. Sharing why vague captions and “expert culture” fall short
• [47:00] How to make fun facts work for your brand – A live mini workshop on adding personality to your copy
• [51:00] Maddy’s favourite spots in the Waterloo Region and why local libraries deserve more love

Tune into this episode to learn how to write with clarity, lead with empathy, and stand out without shouting. Whether you're building a brand or just refining your message, Maddy offers inspiration and actionable wisdom every step of the way.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow entrepreneur who needs to hear this!

Maddy’s Links:

Instagram: @bymaddyaucoin

Website: https://www.bymaddyaucoin.com/

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, host Cheryl Goetz welcomes brand designer and creative entrepreneur Amy Esplen for an inspiring and lighthearted conversation about building a design business rooted in creativity, clarity, and community. Amy shares her journey from creating quirky Facebook collages to studying design at George Brown and working at the acclaimed Him & Her studio, to launching her own freelance business tailored to support small businesses with strategic, standout branding. She opens up about motherhood, work-life balance, and why she’s obsessed with helping entrepreneurs feel proud of their visual identity—even on a tight budget.

Listeners will walk away with valuable insight into what goes into great design, why branding matters for small businesses, and how structure, strategy, and support can help creatives and parents alike thrive.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:15] Amy’s bold move to land a job at Him & Her—and how it kick started her design career.
• [06:50] What “design intensives” are, and how they offer premium branding on a small business budget.
• [13:35] Common branding mistakes businesses make—and how to avoid butchering your beautiful new logo.
• [16:00] Why freelancing offered Amy more balance as a parent than returning to a traditional 9–5.
• [20:00] How Amy and her partner juggle entrepreneurship together, with a little help from the village.
• [34:15] Trends Amy is loving: bold colours, handcrafted vibes, and “naughty” design choices.
• [38:50] Why she’s obsessed with Waterloo Region, and all the amazing local businesses she supports.

Tune in to hear Amy’s refreshing take on balancing creativity, business, and real life—all while helping others shine. If you’re a small biz owner looking to level up your brand or just need a little inspiration, this episode is for you.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow entrepreneur who needs to hear this!

Amy's Links:

Instagram: @amy_esplen

Website: https://www.amyesplen.com/

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, host Cheryl Goetz sits down with Sarah Laing to share her journey through the challenging world of MCAT preparation. With a background rooted in dedication and resilience, Sarah opens up about the strategies that helped her conquer the exam, the importance of a strong support network, and the mindset shifts that made all the difference. Whether you're just starting your MCAT journey or are deep in the study trenches, Sarah's story serves as both inspiration and practical guidance for anyone striving to achieve their medical school dreams.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [00:00] Sarah's journey: From dreaming of med school to tackling the MCAT with confidence.
• [08:15] The importance of structured study plans and realistic goal setting.
• [15:30] How to balance study time with self-care and avoid burnout.
• [22:45] Sarah’s top resources and study techniques for mastering each section of the MCAT.
• [33:10] The role of community and mentorship in staying motivated during preparation.
• [41:20] Sarah's advice for test day: what to expect and how to stay calm under pressure.

Sarah's candid discussion sheds light on the ups and downs of preparing for one of the most challenging exams in a medical student's journey. Her practical tips and motivational insights are perfect for anyone looking to conquer the MCAT with confidence and clarity.

Sarah’s Links

Instagram: @mcatsocial

Website: mcatsocial.com

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Crystal and Savannah, the inspiring co-founders of Something Beyond Mom, a vibrant community built to support moms in reclaiming space for themselves beyond their parenting roles. What began as a casual conversation at a playdate has grown into monthly events designed for connection, self-care, and personal growth. Crystal and Savannah share their journey of creating safe, welcoming spaces where moms can feel empowered, supported, and, most importantly, seen. Their story is one of community and carving out moments of joy for mothers in every stage of life.

In this episode you will hear:
• [01:15] How Something Beyond Mom was born: from a casual playdate conversation to creating meaningful spaces for moms to connect and grow.
• [03:38] Tackling mom guilt: why it's okay to feel it — and how showing up for yourself makes you a better mom, partner, and person.
• [08:14] What sets their events apart: welcoming vibes, easy conversation, and a refreshing break from "just mom talk."
• [12:31] The hidden work behind the scenes: balancing event planning, social media, full-time jobs, and building an authentic, thriving community.
• [18:40] Dreaming big: upcoming plans for yoga brunches, retreats, and even more ways to support moms in Waterloo Region and beyond.

Feeling inspired? Support the podcast by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with a friend who would love to feel a little more connected. Let’s keep celebrating the incredible people who make Waterloo Region such a vibrant place to call home.

Something Beyond Mom Links:
Instagram: @somethingbeyondmom
DM them with code ATHOMECO for a special discount off your first event!

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Ainsley Poirier, the vibrant force behind Harp & Fin, a boutique and floral studio rooted in creativity, authenticity, and connection. Ainsley shares about her transition from leading one of KW’s largest event businesses to building a brand that feels deeply aligned with who she is today. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the pursuit of a life that prioritizes joy, family, and meaningful experiences. Whether you’re a fellow business owner or simply navigating a personal crossroads, Ainsley’s journey will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:02] Ainsley’s creative roots, launching Fresh Look Design, and building a high-volume event business that ultimately led to burnout.
• [07:30] How the pandemic became the turning point for reflection, healing, and the decision to open Harp & Fin in Belmont Village.
• [13:06] What sets Harp & Fin apart: from the in-store experience and personal customer connection, to overcoming challenges like floods and financial setbacks.
• [21:57] Life as a mom and entrepreneur: setting boundaries, finding flow, and creating a business that brings joy back into her home life.
• [45:53] What’s next for Harp & Fin: a unique café, community events, mentorship, and the power of sharing her story to lift others.
  
  

Enjoying the podcast? Share your support by subscribing, leaving a review and sharing this episode with a friend so we can continue to grow our community in this beautiful region!

Harp & Fin Links:
Use code ATHOMECO for 15% off!
Website: www.harpandfin.ca
Instagram: @harpandfin

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz invites guest Amanda Walczyk, better known as Saltbox Mortgage Agent. Amanda’s path into the mortgage world was anything but conventional, beginning with a degree in film and a career in events before pivoting into mortgages during the pandemic. With a passion for real estate, a flair for community building, and a people-over-profit philosophy, Amanda brings her whole heart to helping clients navigate one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives. Amanda and Cher discuss the importance of honest service, empowering others, and cultivating connection in what can often be isolating industries. Amanda isn’t just a mortgage professional, she’s a connector, educator, and collaborator. Tune in to hear how her passion for lifting others up has blossomed into retreats, workshops, and one unforgettable speed-networking event.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:00] How Amanda transitioned from creative work and events to launching a career in mortgages during the pandemic—and why it stuck.
• [05:28] The origin of Better Your Business workshops and real estate retreats, and how they’ve created space for connection, collaboration, and growth.
• [16:26] How Amanda and Cher reimagined networking with “speed dating for realtors,” and why it’s helping break down barriers in the industry.
• [21:45] Amanda’s people-over-profit approach: why she often takes a pay cut to do what’s right for her clients, and a powerful success story that saved one family $40K.
• [30:21] The biggest myths around mortgage rates and renewals, and Amanda’s mission to educate clients so they can make confident, informed decisions.

Whether you're a homeowner, a realtor, or simply someone who values community and integrity, this conversation is packed with inspiration, laughter, and plenty of real talk. Amanda is making mortgages more human, and creating powerful ripple effects in Waterloo Region! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Follow along at @at.home.co or visit www.athomecompany.ca for more inspiring local stories.

Amanda’s Links:
Instagram: @saltboxmortgage_agent
Website: https://saltboxmortgages.com/

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: 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
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co