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
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 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
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 special episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher reflects on one year of sharing local stories and supporting businesses in Waterloo Region. This episode celebrates the milestone of reaching 29 episodes and highlights key lessons learned from interviewing local business owners. Cher also shares her favourite moments from the past year and discusses her hopes for the future of the podcast.

In this episode you will hear:

• [00:37] Cher reflects on how it feels to hit the one-year milestone
• [02:22] Five things I’ve learned from interviewing local businesses:
  • The power of community
  • Collaboration over competition
  • The importance of taking a leap of faith when starting a business
  • Serving this region with passion
  • The importance of evolving and pivoting in business
• [06:10] Cher shares her favourite moments and stories from past interviews
• [06:28] Ainsley from Harp + Finn shares the importance of measuring success by personal fulfillment.
• [07:51] Jackie from Den 1880 discusses the rich history of the building and its role in supporting local businesses
• [08:48] Banter with Sarah from MCAT Social and Amanda from Saltbox Mortgages
• [09:33] The inspiring origin stories of:
  • Suits and Sawdust (service industry transition)
  • Grazing Daisy (stay-at-home mom to thriving business)
  • Fearless Cookin’ (pivoting to private chef services)
  • Becks Broth (building a successful business with integrity)
• [17:13] Cher discusses the importance of supporting local businesses like Holly's Cafe and community-owned butchers
• [19:35] Cher shares her thoughts on slowing down and visiting local spots like farmers markets and butchers
• [20:20] Cher shares her recommendations for listeners who are looking to try something new this year. There is truly something for everyone.
• [27:45] Cher’s hopes for the next year of the podcast, including exciting guests and new content that is coming
• [29:52] Cher thanks listeners and shares her gratitude for the support over the past year

Do you know a business that should be on the podcast? Send me a DM and I would love to shine light on another business who makes our community amazing!!

Thank you for celebrating one year of the At Home in Waterloo Region Podcast!

Connect with Cher:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co

Website: www.athomecompany.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