A Polk County Mom, Navy Veteran, and Local Home Inspector with Pillar to Post

If you’ve been to any Polk County Moms events in the last year, chances are you’ve met Eileen Juarez. Whether she is running after the kids, making phone calls for her business or helping out in various community events – Eileen is a powerhouse. My husband, Matt, calls her “small but mighty,” and I couldn’t agree more. She’s a Navy veteran, a business owner, a wife, a mom of three, and one of the most supportive friends you’ll ever meet. Today we’re so excited to introduce you to Eileen in our Meet a Mom series.

Tell us a little about you and your family.

Hi! My name is Eileen Juarez, and together with my husband, Andre Walters, we own and operate Pillar to Post Home Inspectors here in Polk County. I’m originally from Orlando and Andre is from New Jersey. We met while serving in the military about 10 years ago and instantly clicked. After deployments, moves, and three beautiful kids, we knew we wanted to build a stable home base in Florida. Andre retired from the Navy after 20 years, and I left after 12 to finish my degree in accounting. We both have family here, and Polk County felt like the perfect place to plant roots.

We’re now raising our three kids: Arabella (12), Aziel (6), and Amani (2). Life is busy! We live by alarms, schedules, and prayers for light traffic. But we also make sure to block off family time—no work, no interruptions—just us.

How did your business come about?

Andre and I both worked in construction, project management, and similar fields while in the military. We decided to combine our knowledge and experience to build something of our own. That’s how our Pillar to Post franchise began as a trusted home inspector in Polk County.

The hardest part? Balancing business and family. When you care this much about succeeding, it’s easy to burn the candle at both ends. Our biggest success is that we get to do this together—and still like each other! Our goal is to build something lasting, not just for us but as a legacy for our kids. Whether they follow in our footsteps or chase dreams of their own, we hope they’ll remember that hard work pays off.

What’s your favorite part of parenting?

My favorite part is also my least favorite: watching my kids grow. I love seeing them hit new milestones and learn new things, but it also reminds me that they’re needing me less and less.

What do you love about living in Polk County?

I grew up in Orlando, so I was used to city life. Now I have chickens! I love knowing my neighbors, trading eggs for fruits and veggies, and feeling part of a tight-knit community. The only downside? Sometimes the food I’m craving means a long drive—but even that’s starting to change.

Favorite local spot?

Lake Parker Park. It’s spacious, beautiful, and the tall trees make you feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical forest.

Best advice you’ve been given?

“People might not remember what you say to them, but they will remember how you make them feel.”

Everyday style?

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing—I’m all about being practical and ready to jump in where I’m needed.

What inspires you?

Both my mom and Andre’s mom. They worked hard and sacrificed so much to give their families the American dream.

What’s your ultimate goal?

That my kids grow up to be happy, well-adjusted people. At the end of the day, that’s all that matters.