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

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Dr. Kristin Spark, a passionate naturopathic doctor and the founder of Verdure Wellness Clinic in Uptown Waterloo. Dr. Kristin shares her journey from working in multiple clinics to founding her own business, the challenges she has overcome, and the joy she finds in helping her patients transform their health. The conversation touches on a variety of important health topics, including women's hormonal health, gut health, and holistic approaches to wellness.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:52] Dr. Kristin’s journey of starting Verdure Wellness Clinic after facing clinic closures, how she pivoted to business ownership, and the importance of surrounding herself with a supportive team.
• [06:30] The challenges faced when starting the clinic, including navigating commercial real estate and the pandemic.
• [10:40] Dr. Kristin’s focus on women’s health, specifically hormonal concerns like PMS, menopause, and postpartum issues.
• [14:31] Hormonal health tips for women, including myths surrounding cortisol, exercise, and dietary recommendations.
• [20:37] Key dietary recommendations for women, including high-protein, high-fiber foods and the Mediterranean diet.
• [27:19] Dr. Kristin’s approach to gut health, bloating, and the importance of the microbiome for overall well-being.
• [40:16] Discussion on weight loss diets, including Dr. Kristin’s take on keto, and the growing trend of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic.
• [50:17] A personal discussion about Dr. Kristin’s work with Cher on her health journey, addressing blood sugar levels and weight loss resistance.
• [54:19] Insights into mental health support, including natural remedies for anxiety and depression, especially during postpartum.
• [55:30] Dr. Kristin’s approach to mental health as a naturopath and the importance of taking a holistic view of health.
• [58:05] The lack of postpartum care and how Dr. Kristin helps women navigate the challenging postpartum period.
• [01:02:08] Dr. Kristin’s vision for the future, including offering more affordable group programming to make naturopathic care accessible to more people.
• [01:04:33] Dr. Kristin’s love for Waterloo Region, highlighting local businesses such as Cyclone Spin Studio, Brightside Yoga, Fiddleheads, and Café Pyrus.

Visit the link in Dr. Kristin’s Instagram bio to download her free Gut Health Guide & 7-Day Reset Challenge

Connect with Dr. Kristin:

Instagram: @drkristinspark

Website: verdurewellnessclinic.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