One Tough Cookie

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, we’re diving into what it really looks like to build something from the ground up, before it even exists.I’m sitting down with the president of the board for the Mid-Columbia Children’s Museum to talk about how a simple idea turned into a community-driven movement. From the very first spark to gaining local support, we’re unpacking the momentum, the challenges, and the heart behind bringing a children’s museum to the Tri-Cities.We talk about collaboration over competition, the power of community, and what it takes to lead a vision that’s bigger than yourself. This episode is for anyone who’s ever had an idea on their heart and wondered, “Where do I even start?”✨ In this episode, we cover:• How the idea for the museum began• What it takes to build a nonprofit from scratch• The role of community in bringing big visions to life• Behind-the-scenes challenges no one talks about• How you can get involved and support the missionIf you’re local or just love hearing real stories of people building something meaningful, this one’s for you. 💛CONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

In this powerful episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Edith, the owner of Resilience Beauty Studio, to talk about what resilience really looks like, beyond the highlight reel.Edith shares her journey through adversity, including navigating life as a teen mom, facing personal challenges, and finding her way into the beauty industry... not just as a career, but as a calling. What started as a path to provide has grown into something much deeper: a space where confidence is restored, stories are shared, and healing begins.But her impact doesn’t stop in the salon chair.Edith is also the heart behind a meaningful community initiative offering free haircuts to those in need, an event rooted in her own life experiences and her desire to give back in a real, tangible way.This conversation is raw, honest, and incredibly inspiring. It’s about turning pain into purpose, building something from the ground up, and using your story to serve others.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your path, this episode is for you.✨ In this episode, we talk about:Overcoming adversity and redefining your storyNavigating life as a teen momBuilding a business with purposeConfidence, identity, and transformation through beautyGiving back to your community in meaningful waysListen in and be reminded: resilience isn’t about having a perfect story, it’s about choosing to keep going.CONNECT WITH EDITHInstagram:@resiliencebeautystudiollc@blondingbyedithCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

This episode is a little different… because we’re recording it while I’m literally in the makeup chair getting ready for a photoshoot.What started as getting ready turned into a real, honest conversation about confidence, business, and the moments people don’t always see.We talk about what it’s like to sit in someone’s chair during big life moments, what makeup artists witness behind the scenes, and how confidence is built from the inside out.It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a reminder that there’s always more beneath the surface.CONNECT WITH MARI KRANZMAKEUP BY MARI KRANZInstagram @makeupxmarikranzFacebook.com/makeupbyxmarikranzSINCERELY MARI PHOTOGRAPHYInstagram @sincerelymariphotographyFacebook.com/sincerelymariphotographyCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

We hear it all the time: start the business, chase the dream, go all in.But what happens when your path shifts?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with a former hairstylist who made the decision to step away from her business and return to a more stable career.We talk about outgrowing what once felt aligned, the pressure to keep going, and what it really looks like to redefine success on your own terms.This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered… what if I want something different?CONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

CONNECT WITH MADISONThe Bronzed Societyfacebook.com/TheBronzedSocietyInstagram @TheBronzedSocietyCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

What 9 Years in Business Has Actually Taught MeThis week’s episode is a little different… it’s just me.After almost 9 years of running my cookie business, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing what this journey has actually looked like—beyond the pretty cookies and curated posts.In this episode, I’m talking about:✨ 3 things I’d absolutely do again⚠️ 3 things I’d do very differently💥 The biggest misconception about running a cookie business👀 What people don’t see behind the scenesIf you’re in the messy middle of building something—this one is for you.You’re not behind. You’re building.CONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

You asked, I answered.In this episode, I’m sharing the real behind-the-scenes of life, business, and motherhood, what’s working, what’s hard, and what I’m learning in this season.From routines and running a business to raising kids and showing up when it’s not perfect… this is the unfiltered version.If you’ve ever felt like you’re just figuring it out as you go...same.

Parenting is beautiful but it can also feel isolating, especially when you’re trying to figure out what to do with your kids or how to connect with other families in your community.In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Whitney, the founder of Tri-Cities Toddler, a platform designed to make life easier for parents, caregivers, and families in the Tri-Cities.What started as a simple idea has grown into a powerful local resource connecting families with kid-friendly activities, community events, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations throughout the area.Whitney shares the story behind why she created Tri-Cities Toddler, the impact it’s having on local families, and how building community can make parenting feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more connected.Whether you’re a parent looking for things to do with your kids or someone who believes in the power of supporting local communities, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and practical ideas.CONNECT WITH WHITNEYTRI-CITIES TODDLERwww.tricitiestoddler.comfacebook.com/tricitiestoddlerInstagram @tricitiestoddlerTikTok @tricitiestoddlerCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

What happens when building a business becomes part of your healing journey?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Shannon, founder of Atomic Alchemy, a community-centered space rooted in everyday magic, self-trust, and personal growth.Shannon is also known locally for creating markets and events that bring small businesses together, embodying the idea of community over competition. But behind the scenes, her journey has been about more than entrepreneurship.It’s been about healing.Together, Marla and Shannon talk about what it looks like to grow a business while also growing as a person — navigating motherhood, self-discovery, doubt, and the courage it takes to bet on yourself.This conversation is honest, reflective, and deeply human, a reminder that you don’t have to be fully healed to begin building something meaningful.Because sometimes the business you create… is also the thing that helps shape who you become.✨ If you’re in a season of building, healing, or becoming, this episode is for you.CONNECT WITH SHANNONAtomic Alchemywww.atomicalchemyllc.comIG: @atomicalchemyllcfacebook.com/atomicalchemyllcCONNECT WITH MARLAIG: @OneToughCookiePodMarla's Cookie Cowww.marlascookieco.comIG: @marlascookiecofacebook.com/marlascookieco

What does it take to stay in business for 15 years in today’s retail world?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m sitting down with the heart behind Pipsqueaks Boutique — a children’s boutique rooted in handmade goods, thoughtful curation, and deep community connection.We talk about what it really means to support local makers in a world of fast fashion, how relationships (not transactions) build longevity, and the power of creating a space where families feel known and welcomed.Fifteen years doesn’t happen by accident. It happens through consistency, trust, and choosing heart over hustle — again and again.If you’re a small business owner, a maker, or someone who believes community still matters, this conversation will remind you why supporting local makes such a difference.Pipsqueaks Boutiquewww.pipsqueaks.orgInstagram: @pipsqueaksTCFacebook.com/PipsqueaksBoutique

What does it really mean to be seen?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m sitting down with Jamie, the photographer behind JK Photography here in the Tri-Cities, to talk about the woman behind the camera.We go beyond the lens and into her story — how she turned creativity into a calling, what it looked like to build her business from the ground up, and why helping women feel confident and celebrated in front of the camera is at the heart of everything she does.Jamie shares what the early days of entrepreneurship looked like, how community has shaped her journey, and the powerful role photography plays in helping people step into their next chapter.Whether you’re a creative, a small business owner, or someone learning to show up more fully as yourself — this conversation will remind you that your story matters.Connect with JK Photography in the show notes and follow along with her work.Jamie Kincaid www.jkphotoswa.comFacebook & Instagra@jkphotoswaHost: Marla Rogerswww.marlascookieco.com@OneToughCookiePod@MarlasCookieCo

In today’s episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m joined by a very special guest and my favorite human, my husband, Keithan, for a casual, real-life conversation as we step into a new season as a family.This year will look a little different behind the scenes, and instead of overexplaining, we wanted to share a simple check-in about partnership, navigating change with intention, and staying grounded through it all.It’s an honest, lighthearted episode filled with steady perspective, a little humor, and a reminder that seasons can shift without everything falling apart.Thanks for being here with us.

In this sweet and inspiring episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with the owner of How Sweet It Is, a specialty candy shop in the Tri-Cities that’s bringing nostalgia, joy, and community connection to life—one treat at a time.What started as a simple love for candy and childhood memories turned into a bold business leap during uncertain times. Together, we talk about the real behind-the-scenes journey of building a brick-and-mortar shop, the challenges and growth that come with entrepreneurship, and the powerful impact of creating a space centered around happiness and connection.From curating unique candies to hosting community events and giving back locally, this episode is a reminder that some of the best businesses are built from heart, creativity, and a little everyday magic.Whether you’re a small business owner, a dreamer with an idea, or someone who believes joy is worth building—this conversation is for you.🍭 Follow How Sweet It Is: @howsweettcWww.howsweettc.com🍪 Follow Marla & One Tough Cookie: @[email protected]

Behind every seamless event is a business owner quietly managing timelines, vendors, emotions, and last-minute surprises — so clients can actually enjoy their day.In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m joined by Bliss Events, a local wedding and event planning business, to talk about why hiring an event planner truly changes everything. From the unseen problem-solving that happens behind the scenes to the emotional weight planners carry on some of life’s biggest days, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make events look effortless.Whether you’re planning a wedding or event, or you’re a small business owner who understands the value of systems, trust, and experience — this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the calm behind the chaos.🎧 Tune in to hear:• Why event planners matter more than people realize• What really happens behind the scenes on event day• The business side of creating unforgettable experiencesBliss EventsIG: bliss.events.waFacebook.com/blisseventstcWww.blisseventstc.comHost:Marla RogersIG: MarlasCookieCoPodcast IG: onetoughcookiepod

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with Sarah Hermann, owner of A Bit of Happiness Farm.What started during Covid as a simple backyard idea, inviting families to come feed a few animals, quickly grew into something much bigger. Sarah shares how that small spark turned into a full family farm experience, expanding to new land and becoming a place for birthday parties, field trips, volunteer opportunities and meaningful community connection.This conversation is about building something with heart, growing alongside your family, and creating joy in a season when people needed it most. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most impactful businesses start small and grow exactly the way they’re meant to.Facebook.com/abitofhappinessIG: @abitofhappinessfarmTikTok: abitofhappinessfarm Website: www.abitofhappinessfarm.comHost: Marla Rogers@[email protected]

Hard seasons in business don’t just challenge our work, they can quietly change how we see ourselves.In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Melissa Nissan, owner of TSP Bakeshop, to talk about the internal journey that comes with stepping into ownership and navigating a small, competitive community.After taking over an existing bakery, Melissa found herself facing challenges that tested her confidence, sense of self, and resilience as a business owner. Rather than focusing on situations or specifics, this conversation centers on the internal experience, the self-doubt, the growth, and the rebuilding of confidence that often happens quietly behind the scenes.Together, Marla and Melissa explore what it looks like to lead with integrity, protect your confidence when things feel out of your control, and rebuild self-trust after a hard season.If you’ve ever questioned yourself because of a business challenge, felt discouraged by competition, or wondered how to stay grounded when things feel personal, this episode is for you.You’re not alone, and this chapter doesn’t define you.TSP BAKESHOPMelissa Nissanwww.tspbakeshop.comInstagram @tspbakeshopFacebook.com/tspbakeshopwaHOSTMarla RogersInstagram @onetoughcookiepodwww.marlascookieco.com

Hustle culture promises success but what happens when it starts costing you your health, creativity, and joy? In this episode, Marla sits down with Concetta of Layered Cake Artistry for an honest conversation about burnout, boundaries, and redefining success as a small business owner. As Concetta celebrates six years of her storefront, she reflects on the lessons learned, the pressure to always do more, and what it looks like to build a business that supports your life, not consumes it. This episode is a reminder that slowing down or pivoting isn’t failing, it’s aligning.Website:www.layeredcakeartistry.comInstagram:@layeredcakeartistryFacebook.com/layeredcakeartistryTikTok:LayeredCakeArtistryHost:Marla Rogers@OneToughCookiePod@marlasCookieCo

Fine Lines, Deep Meaning: The Stories That Live in the ChairIn this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Julie of Fine Lines Tattoo by Julie to talk about the connection, meaning, and stories behind fine line tattoos. Julie shares her journey as a self-taught tattoo artist, how creativity becomes a safe space, and what it looks like to build a business rooted in heart, intention, and quiet strength.Fine Lines Tattoo By JulieWebsite:https://finelinestattoo.glossgenius.comInstagram:Finelinestattoo.byjulieHost: Marla Rogers@OneToughCookiePod@MarlasCookieCo

Branding is about so much more than a logo, a color palette, or pretty packaging — it’s about intention, storytelling, and connection.In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m sitting down with Sarra, owner of JoJo’s Freeze Dried Goodies, to talk about what it really means to build a brand with purpose. From creating recognizable products to building multiple brands that each have their own voice and identity, Sarra shares the behind-the-scenes decisions that have helped her connect with customers and build genuine loyalty.We talk about branding mistakes, lessons learned, staying consistent while evolving, and why authenticity will always matter more than perfection. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your brand, this conversation is full of real-life insight, encouragement, and reminders that your story matters.If you’re a small business owner, creative, or entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful — this episode is for you.JoJo’s Freeze Dried GoodiesWebsite: www.bossfarmsllc.comTikTok: JoJosFreezeDriedGoodiesFB: JoJo’s Freeze Dried GoodiesIG: @JoJosFreezeDriedGoodies@jamesnuthousecrazypb@Lilliepopscandiedfruit@OneToughCookiePodHost: Marla Rogers@marlascookieco

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with the two moms behind Bagg Books, a mobile bookstore turned community space built around one powerful idea: women deserve rest without guilt. From handpicked romance novels to a converted trailer and an upcoming storefront, they share how they’re redefining self-care, challenging the hustle culture, and giving women permission to escape into a good read. If you’ve been craving a reminder to slow down and choose joy, this conversation is for [email protected]:www.baggbooks.com@OneToughCookiePodHost: Marla Rogers@MarlasCookieCo

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Erin, owner of Earth Spirit Mystical Boutique in downtown Kennewick. From starting in her kitchen as a creative side hustle to building a storefront and community gathering space, Erin shares the intuition, courage, and heart behind growing a business rooted in connection, creativity, and safe spaces.Instagram@earthspirit_shopFacebookfacebook.com/earthspirit_shopWebsitehttps://www.earthspiritshop.comInstagram@OneToughCookiePod@MarlasCookieCo

 In this special episode, Marla takes you behind the scenes at the Grace Hollow Holiday Market, capturing real, unfiltered conversations with the small business owners who make this season shine. These quick vendor interviews are filled with heart, hustle, and the true spirit of supporting local during the holidays.Vendor Instagrams@GraceHollowMarkets@[email protected]@whimsy_love@TheFarmHouseFeelsCo@foxetailsco@dazzlinglifedesigns

n this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Makaylah — owner of Ven-You, a Tri-Cities event space that has become a thriving hub for celebrations, workshops, pop-ups, and community connection.When Makaylah took over the business, she didn’t just continue what existed… she reimagined it. With intention, creativity, and a whole lot of grit, she transformed Ven-You into a space that feels welcoming, elevated, and full of possibility.But her story doesn’t stop there.Outside of entrepreneurship, Makaylah is also an Ironman athlete — a journey that requires extreme discipline, resilience, and mental toughness. In this episode, she shares how her training mindset shows up in her business, what fuels her on the hard days, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.This conversation is all about taking ownership of your story, stepping boldly into opportunities, and building something that supports everyone around you.Ven-Youinstagram: @venyou.tricitiesWebsite: www.ven-you-space.comInstragram:@MarlasCookieCo@OneToughCookiePod

Balancing Business, Motherhood & Mental Healthwith Tri-Cities Realtor Kayla Pratt In this heartfelt episode, Marla sits down with Kayla Pratt, Tri-Cities realtor, former Miss Spokane Teen 2003 and Miss Spokane 2006, and mompreneur navigating the beautiful chaos of raising a family while building a thriving career.Kayla opens up about the real, raw, behind-the-scenes moments that don’t make the highlight reels: mom guilt, mental load, burnout, boundaries, and the constant pressure to “do it all.” Together, Marla and Kayla explore what it means to chase your dreams while also being present for the people who matter most.This episode is a reminder that motherhood and ambition can coexist but it requires support, self-awareness, and a whole lot of grace. Whether you’re a small business owner, a mom juggling multiple roles, or someone needing reassurance in a heavy season, this conversation will meet you right where you are.Topics We Cover:    •    The truth about balancing clients, kids, and constant demands    •    How Kayla prioritizes mental health in a high-pressure industry    •    Realistic routines and boundaries that help keep life afloat    •    Letting go of perfection and embracing growth    •    Why guilt and grace often show up together    •    Encouragement for moms building something of their ownInstagram: @tricitiesrealestate_kaylapratt @marlascookieco@OneToughCookiePod

Every small business has its quiet seasons; those slower months that test your patience, your confidence, and your passion. In this episode, Marla sits down with the owner of What’s The Scoop?, a beloved local ice cream shop known for their bold weekend-only hours and wildly creative flavors, to talk about the reality of running a business when things aren’t busy.Together, they dive into what the “slow season” looks like for a small, community-driven shop and how to stay motivated when foot traffic slows down and doubt starts to creep in. From navigating burnout to using downtime for creativity and flavor innovation, this conversation is full of honesty, inspiration, and the reminder that growth doesn’t only happen during your busiest times.In This Episode, We Cover:    •    The origin story of What’s The Scoop?    •    Why they operate during unique weekend-only hours    •    What a “quiet season” really looks like behind the scenes    •    How to stay motivated when sales dip    •    The creative process behind their wild and unexpected flavors    •    Lessons learned from burnout, doubt, and slowing down    •    How community support keeps them moving forward    •    Why slow seasons can actually be the sweetest seasonsWhy You’ll Love This Episode:It’s real. It’s honest. It’s exactly what small business owners need to hear when they’re feeling discouraged or thinking no one else understands the ups and downs. This episode is your reminder that slower seasons are not setbacks, they’re part of the journey.Connect With What’s The Scoop:Instagram @whatsthescoopfacebook.com/whatsthescoopwaTikTok @poutine.scoops.waConnect With One Tough Cookie:Instagram: @onetoughcookiepod@marlascookiecoNew episodes every week 🎙🍪

What started as a high school senior project turned into a 15-year-strong nonprofit changing lives across the Pacific Northwest.In this episode, I sit down with AnnErica, founder of Rascal Rodeo, to talk about how one small idea grew into a movement that gives individuals with disabilities the chance to be cowboys and cowgirls for a day.AnnErica shares how she turned her calling into a full-fledged 501(c)(3) organization — and how it continues to thrive thanks to the power of volunteers, sponsors, and an incredible community that shows up year after year.This episode is about faith, purpose, and the beauty of collaboration — a reminder that no dream is too small, and no dreamer does it alone.✨ Tune in to hear:    •    How Rascal Rodeo began as a high school project    •    What it means to follow the “desire in your heart”    •    The power of community in keeping a mission alive    •    How inclusion and compassion can transform a townBecause at the end of the day, it really does take a village — and this one is proof that together, we can do something truly extraordinary.Want to Volunteer, Donate, or support? Click below!http://rascalrodeo.orgInstagram @rascalrodeoFacebook.com/RascalRodeo

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Taeler, owner of Zipease, a local business owner who got the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pitch her brand on Shark Tank. But here’s the twist — her episode never aired.She opens up about the highs, the nerves, the behind-the-scenes moments that viewers never got to see, and what it really taught her about resilience, courage, and chasing big dreams even when the spotlight doesn’t follow.This is a raw and inspiring conversation about taking bold risks, betting on yourself, and redefining what success truly means.Instagram: @Zipeasefacebook.com/zipeaseromperswww.zipease.com

Leaving a stable job to chase your own dream isn' t easy- it's terrifying. In this episode of One Tough Cookie, Marla sits down with Tania, owner of TC Cake Art who spent years helping build someone else's dream before finally finding the courage to chase her own. Together they talk about the fear, freedom, and fulfillment that come with walking away from what' s safe to create something that's truly yours.

From a tiny apartment oven to a thriving business. Built from pure grit, Marla shares the story behind Marla's Cookie Co. In this episode she opens up about how baking became therapy, how fear turned into courage, and how she built her dream one cookie at a time.

Official launch episode of the one tough cookie podcast!