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