There’s a lot of business that happens in your home. More and more, it’s become the center of commerce. And that’s not just because of big delivery services. It takes a lot of products to run a home.

The essence of American consumerism is convenience. We’re all thrilled to spend a buck to do it the easy way.

Think about it: When was the last time you changed your oil? Sure, you could do it. But that would take an hour. There are all kinds of chores we need to do and, like changing oil, forget to do. For example, changing air filters.

That’s why Mitch Poche started Filter Genie. It’s a web-based subscription service that offers just two products: air filters and fridge filters. The service helps you figure out what kind of filter you need and puts you on a schedule so the filters show up when you need them.

Mitch Poche aka Filter Genie, your AC and fridge drinking water filters show up at your door when they need to be replaced

Mitch Poche aka Filter Genie, your AC and fridge drinking water filters show up at your door when they need to be replaced

Mitch started the company after a long stint in the AC business. The brand is part of CIS Industries, a commercial HVAC company based in the New Orleans area. He and his business partner, his old boss at CIS, are focusing their growth strategy along the I-10 Corridor.

As our population ages, the home is also becoming a growth sector in the health industry. Home health care services like Mel Pickney’s Heart of Gold Private Duty Nursing serve about 15 million patients each year — on 600 million patient visits.

For Mel, though, the service is about a promise she made to her grandmother – care for others and never let them go neglected.

Mel Pickney, her Heart of Gold home help service ranges from companionship to medical care

Mel Pickney, her Heart of Gold home help service ranges from companionship to medical care

Mel has a long background in healthcare. But she got her knack for private care looking after her grandmother and later her father, a Vietnam vet. Today, Mel’s Heart of Gold offers private nursing care, companionship services, post-natal care and post surgical care.

Mel’s Heart of Gold Private Duty Nursing employs 30 people to provide care at every duration: round the clock, overnight, long-term care and short-term care.

Mel grew up in St. Martin Parish and at one time hosted a radio show as Mel the Diva.

Mel Pickney & Mitch Poche, Out to Lunch at Central Pizza in downtown Lafayette

Mel Pickney & Mitch Poche, Out to Lunch at Central Pizza in downtown Lafayette

This episode of Out to Lunch Acadiana was recorded live over lunch at Central Pizza in downtown Lafayette. Photos by Astor Morgan.