Here at LiveMom, we love meeting new moms (and dads) doing interesting things around town. Our monthly Feature series give us an excuse to learn more about these hard-working Austinites.
I met Candace Leak at Emler Swim School when our boys were three; they were in a swim class together in the middle of a weekday and they were the only two in the class. Candace and I had a half-hour every week to get to know each other, and after that season, we became good friends. Now our boys are both in 2nd grade, and we stay in touch as much as our busy mama lives will allow. She’s a kind, generous, and fun woman to be around and her smile lights up the room. Meet Candace.
LiveMom: How long have you lived in Austin, and what brought you here?
Candace: I moved here after I graduated from college in February of 2000. I was looking for an adventure.
LiveMom: How many kids do you have, and what are their ages?
Candace: I have two: Cole is 8 and Cydney is 6.
LiveMom: What is your idea of a perfect day with the family in Austin?
Candace: We love doing anything outdoors followed by eating at TacoDeli. We especially love hiking the greenbelt and swimming when the water is warm enough.
LiveMom: If you had 24 hours to yourself in Austin, how would you spend it?
Candace: I would do the 7 mile loop at Town Lake then go have a nice lunch somewhere downtown. I would follow that with a massage then go out for dinner and to see live music somewhere with my husband.
LiveMom: What do you like best about Austin? What would you change, if you could?
Candace: I love that we are a community that values the outdoors and the environment. I’m especially excited about the Waller Creek project that will add even more trails. Of course, I would change the traffic, and it’d be awesome if you didn’t always have to get a reservation or fight crowds.
LiveMom: What’s one piece of unsolicited advice you’d give to a new mom?
Candace: Live the way you want your kids to live (don’t say can’t, dream big, don’t limit yourself, etc.). If you have a dream, go after it. Teach your kids by example.
LiveMom: What is the best thing one mom can do for another?
Candace: Tell them they are a good mom. I feel like we always brag on dads but the great work moms do is just expected. Take the time to tell your friends that you notice how great of a mom they are. It’s the most important thing to all of us.
LiveMom: What kind of music do you like? Any local musicians? Kids musicians?
Candace: I LOVE Drew Womack. He is mostly known for writing songs, but if you can catch him playing, he is amazing.
LiveMom: What’s the best way to keep up with what you are up to next?
Candace: Check out www.loanables.com and our blog. I often post things there.
LiveMom: What might we be surprised to learn about you?
Candace: I very rarely carry a purse because I have lost so many.
LiveMom: What is your job, what is your title, and what do you love about your job?
Candace: CEO of Loanables. Our mission is to reduce overconsumption by making it as easy to rent and share as it is to buy. I’ve picked an extremely challenging goal, but I don’t think it’d be as fun if it was easy.
LiveMom: Do you have any charitable organizations you like to work with/ donate to/ volunteer for locally?
Candace: Austin Children’s Shelter, the Waller Creek Conservancy, and Keep Austin Beautiful
LiveMom: What is your secret talent?
Candace: I attract world-class talent to work with me. I’m so honored that the people I want to work with also want to work with me.
LiveMom: Any social media links or sites you want to promote?
Candace: www.loanables.com / facebook.com/loanables / instagram.com/loanables /twitter.com/loanables
