In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Alex and Megan from Suits and Sawdust—a local custom cabinetry, millwork, and outdoor projects company making a name for itself across Ontario. Known for its refined craftsmanship and exceptional client care, Suits and Sawdust has grown from a passion project in a garage to a powerhouse small business led by a tight-knit team. Alex and Megan share what sets them apart: a commitment to hospitality-driven service, standout social media presence, and a mission to challenge the norms in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:20] Alex shares how Suits and Sawdust began as a side hustle in her parents’ garage and has now grown into a full-time business approaching its 10-year anniversary.
• [04:21] Megan and Alex explain how their backgrounds in hospitality shaped their approach to client communication and why Suits is committed to being the “anti-contractor contractor.”
• [06:38] The team discusses their emphasis on professionalism, reliability, and job site etiquette and how they’ve become known for “fixing” bad contractor experiences.
• [11:59] Candid conversation on navigating sexism in the trades industry and how Suits has built a reputation as a women-led business with strong values and a supportive, respectful team.
• [18:23] The secret to their company culture? Hiring based on character, not just credentials.
• [23:37] How having a team with both male and female energy has opened space for authentic check-ins, mutual respect, and mental health support on the job.
• [32:54] Why being visible online builds trust: clients feel confident working with Suits because of their transparent, public presence and personality-driven content.
• [36:45] Alex and Megan reflect on growth goals, including scaling the business without sacrificing freedom, and maintaining work-life boundaries for a more sustainable future.
• [50:39] How setting clear business boundaries (like not working evenings or weekends) has helped attract dream clients who respect their time and values.
• [55:13] Why Waterloo Region is the perfect place to grow a small business with a strong community, local support, and endless inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs.
• [57:19] Local shoutouts include: Holly’s Neighbourhood Cafe, Disko Coffee, Red Bicycle, Nitro Music, Fusion Fitness, and ProActive Training.

This episode is a celebration of craft, community, and bold business-building done the Suits and Sawdust way—with intention, creativity, and heart.

Special Offer: Mention this podcast ATHOME or Cheryl when booking and receive 10% off any built-in or millwork project.

Connect with Alex and Megan:

Instagram: @suitsandsawdust
Website: https://www.suitsandsawdust.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 Ivonne Hammoud, registered social worker and founder of New Moon Counselling, to talk about her journey from agency work to building a thriving private practice in Waterloo Region. Ivonne shares her honest experiences as a business owner, mother, and therapist, offering insights into the emotional work that happens both inside and outside the therapy room. With a passion for providing accessible, client-centered mental health care, Ivonne discusses the growth of her practice, the realities of supporting others while managing personal roles, and the deep value of human connection.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [01:12] Ivonne shares her journey from agency work to launching New Moon Counselling, inspired by the need for more immediate support and encouragement from former clients.
• [04:41] The name “New Moon” represents new beginnings and embracing every phase of life, an intentional metaphor for the therapeutic process.
• [05:40] Ivonne talks candidly about being both a therapist and a mom, navigating human imperfections while holding space for others.
• [11:00] The energy and warmth of the New Moon Counselling team is central to the client experience, designed to offer safety and comfort from the moment they walk in.
• [14:01] Ivonne gives insight into how therapists care deeply about their clients, even outside of sessions, often putting in unseen emotional and practical work.
• [31:59] Loneliness and lack of authentic connection are major struggles among women Ivonne sees in her practice, alongside burnout and perfectionism.
• [39:47] For men, common issues include wanting deeper friendships, emotional processing, and unlearning emotional suppression tied to societal expectations.
• [43:51] Ivonne introduces her podcast, Outside the Therapy Room, which explores real-life mental health topics like mom guilt, fear, and friendship dynamics.
• [45:21] A nuanced take on forgiveness, explaining it isn’t always necessary, but learning to move forward is, especially when we can’t control others’ actions.
• [52:08] Looking ahead, New Moon will host community events like “Clay and Connect” to help reduce isolation and build connection.
• [53:12] Ivonne shouts out her favourite local businesses, including Mediterraneo Family Restaurant and fun family spots like The Museum.

This episode offers an honest look at the realities of therapy, the challenges of building meaningful connections, and the passion behind creating a supportive mental health practice, be sure to listen for insights that might just resonate with your own journey.

Connect with Ivonne:

Instagram: @newmooncounsellingkw
Website: newmooncounselling.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 welcomes back sponsor and returning guest Amanda Walczyk, a licensed mortgage agent at Saltbox Mortgages. Together, Cher and Amanda share updates from the real estate and mortgage markets, break down current financial trends affecting homeowners, and reflect on takeaways from a recent women’s financial conference. This episode focuses on strategies for navigating mortgage renewals, consolidating debt, and taking control of your financial future with practical and approachable advice. Amanda brings her deep knowledge and warmth to conversations that are often stressful, and Cher compliments this with real talk from the housing market.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [01:29] Amanda shares that interest rates are finally coming down, but most mortgage renewals are more complex now due to additional debts, car loans, and renovations added during COVID.
• [02:07] Many clients are seeing $400+ increases in monthly payments, Amanda explains why it’s crucial to plan renewals at least 90 days in advance.
• [06:30] Amanda introduces OwnWell, a personalized monthly report for clients that shows their equity, payoff progress, and opportunities to save on their current mortgage.
• [07:47] Cher and Amanda discuss the benefits of 30-year amortizations and the power of being in control of your cash flow rather than being overwhelmed by multiple high-interest payments.
• [17:55] Cher breaks down her current approach to setting realistic price expectations in today’s housing market and how she helped clients successfully sell their homes this year.
• [22:31] Cher highlights the importance of managing days-on-market for listings and shares how her pricing and marketing strategies outperformed local medians.
• [26:17] Real estate tip: buyers should explore listings slightly above their budget, sellers are increasingly open to negotiation and price drops.
• [27:57] Amanda and Cher recap key insights from a recent women's investment conference, including the importance of understanding different investment tiers and tools like TFSAs and RRSPs.
• [37:40] Amanda advises clients to move cryptocurrency investments out of crypto platforms 90+ days before using funds for a down payment.
• [40:55] Final takeaway: Financial literacy is power. Amanda and Cher urge listeners to learn one new thing, start a conversation, and reach out for help without shame.

This episode is full of empowering insights and practical tools for navigating your finances and real estate decisions with clarity and confidence. Tune in to hear Amanda and Cher’s expert perspectives and stories from the field!

Connect with Amanda:

Instagram: @saltboxmortgage_agent

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