In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz welcomes Brie Pointer, a multi-talented artist, brand designer, illustrator, and farm enthusiast living in the Waterloo region. Brie discusses her creative journey, from her early aspirations in high school to becoming a community-driven entrepreneur. She shares her experiences running Wayward Farm with her partner and her extensive work within the region, including murals, branding projects, and building strong local connections.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [04:43] From being an artist at heart to the unexpected journey of becoming a brand designer and illustrator.
• [05:38] Brie reflects on her path, from photography to graphic design, and the importance of being open to change.
• [08:35] Brie shares her involvement in several community projects, including her work designing murals at Cellar 52 and Gaukel Block, and her branding work for local businesses like Talula Fields and The Conscious Farm Kitchen.
• [12:24] Brie talks about running the farm with her partner Mike, managing the CSA program, and their journey to new farming methods after relocating to a new property.
• [14:02] Brie opens up about the intense juggling act between running a business, managing the farm, and raising two kids.
• [16:02] Brie discusses how recognizing the need to pause allowed her to focus on the farm's soil health and ultimately improve her operations.
• [26:03] Brie reflects on how starting her career as a freelancer was daunting but led to a greater understanding of the shared experience among creatives and entrepreneurs.
• [28:35] Brie shares her thoughts on the value of being part of a local community and how working with clients who are starting out offers both creative freedom and learning opportunities.
• [41:35] Brie talks about her excitement for upcoming projects and her plans for both personal and professional growth in the next few years.
• [43:16] Brie discusses what makes Waterloo Region special for both business and personal growth, emphasizing the supportive, interconnected community that continues to foster creative collaborations.
• [1:02:13] Brie shares her favourite local spots in the region, from cafes to hidden gems in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo.

From her journey as a creative entrepreneur to her commitment to building a strong, supportive community, Brie’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, vulnerability, and following one’s passions.

Connect with Brie Pointer:

Instagram: @briepointer @waywardfarm

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 Chef Nicole, a passionate food educator, mentor, and entrepreneur whose journey has taken her to the forefront of hands-on culinary education. As one of the early adopters of the personal chef movement, Chef Nicole built a thriving business that has now evolved into a mission-focused career bringing nutrition, creativity, and curriculum-aligned food programs into local classrooms. With experience serving thousands of students, supporting local organizations, and cooking for Tiny Home Takeout, Nicole shares how food is a tool for connection, empowerment, and joy.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• [02:35] Chef Nicole’s journey to launching a personal chef business rooted in family experience and food allergies.
• [03:30] How teaching at the Kitchener Market led to her passion for food education and empowering kids with kitchen skills.
• [07:05] Insight into her work at Tiny Home Takeout and why it's a fulfilling community-based initiative.
• [13:09] Behind the scenes of her popular summer cooking camps for kids aged 8–12, and how they help build cooking skills and confidence.
• [17:40] Chef Nicole shares how embracing pivots and saying “yes” to new opportunities shaped her entrepreneurial journey.
• [19:25] Her curriculum-aligned school food program for grades K–6, how it works, and the impact it’s making in classrooms.
• [30:00] Tips for introducing kids to cooking at home, including age-appropriate tasks, starter recipes, and confidence-building techniques.
• [35:02] Chef Nicole’s personal favourite meals, from tacos to berry salads, and her food philosophy around nutrient-dense eating.
• [40:26] Bulk buying local meat, freezer prep tips, and how to simplify last-minute dinners with smart planning.
• [46:59] What Nicole loves most about living in Waterloo Region, including nature trails and favourite local food spots like Color Blend Co. and Darlise Café.

This inspiring conversation is full of practical ideas for parents, educators, and anyone looking to connect with others through food. Chef Nicole shows us that cooking isn’t just about meals — it’s about confidence, creativity, and community.

Connect with Chef Nicole:

Instagram: @chef.nicole

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 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