At Home In Waterloo Region with Cheryl Goetz
Welcome to At Home In Waterloo Region, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the heart and soul of this incredible community — the people! Hosted by Cheryl Goetz, this show features inspiring locals and passionate business owners, sharing their stories, motivations and challenges. Whether you're a long-time resident, new to the area, or somewhere in between, join in and explore what makes Waterloo Region such a special place to live, work and grow.
Each episode dives into the journeys behind local businesses, from the moments of inspiration to the hurdles they've faced, and the joys of running a business in this vibrant region. Hear firsthand what makes these businesses unique, what they’re excited for in the future, and what keeps them grounded in the community.
Tune in for inspiring stories, practical insights, and a few laughs along the way — all from the people who make Waterloo Region a fantastic place to call home.
At Home In Waterloo Region with Cheryl Goetz
Fearless Cookin' | Sandra Somwaru
In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cheryl Goetz sits down with Kitchener-born Sandra — a first-generation Portuguese Canadian, foodie, and the creator of Fearless Cookin’ and Pragmatic Consulting. Sandra shares how personal health challenges and a love of flavour launched her clean spice blend business, while her passion for problem-solving in sales led to a second venture helping businesses grow with strategy and heart. With deep local roots, Sandra is bringing bold spices and big impact to the community, without compromising her values or pace.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- [02:45] How Fearless Cookin’ started with an Instagram page, a few seasoning blends, and a push from friends, and why Sandra chose to grow it slowly and intentionally.
- [07:59] The hidden additives in store-bought seasonings and how Sandra’s blends fill a clean, flavourful gap in the spice industry.
- [13:31] Why “Rub-A-Dub-Dub” is the go-to blend for BBQ lovers, and how to turn it into a paste with maple syrup or honey for ribs, chops, steak and more.
- [15:48] How Sandra’s Portuguese roots and family traditions influenced the flavours and stories behind blends like Casa Portuguesa.
- [25:30] The power of slowing down: how Sandra is shifting from digital hustle to intentional in-person connection through cooking and community.
- [35:11] Sandra’s second business, Pragmatic Consulting, helps small businesses and seed-stage startups organize their sales systems and grow with purpose.
- [46:08] Why she’s choosing to build deep roots in Waterloo Region, and how the local support system fuels both of her ventures.
Sandra’s story is a reminder that building a business, and a life, doesn’t have to be rushed. By choosing quality over quantity, community over noise, and values over speed, she’s created two ventures that are as grounded as they are growing.
Special Offer: Use the code "ATHOME20" for 20% off your purchase from Fearless Cookin’
Connect with Sandra:
Instagram: @fearlesscookin
Website: fearlesscookin.com
LinkedIn: Pragmatic Consulting
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
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