One Tough Cookie

What happens when the career you once dreamed of no longer brings you the same joy?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I’m sitting down with Sarah, the owner of Make Your Mark, a mobile art studio bringing creativity and connection to our community.After years of teaching, Sarah made the courageous decision to walk away from a stable career, step into the unknown, and build something entirely her own.We talk about choosing faith over fear, finding the courage to start over, the challenges of putting a price on your passion, and learning that success isn’t always measured by money.Sarah’s story is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to chase a new dream, trust your gut, and create a life that feels right for you.Because sometimes, making your mark means having the courage to begin again. CONNECT WITH SARAH METCALFInstagram @makeyourmark_artwww.makeyourmarkart.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19njRTJwG6/?mibextid=wwXIfrCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with Tenesha, the creative force behind Cornflower Creative and The Ruby Gallery & Events.From making headbands and customized T-shirts in middle school to starting multiple businesses and eventually building the creative businesses she has today, Tenesha’s journey has been anything but a straight line.We talk about following your creativity, allowing yourself and your business to evolve, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and what it takes to turn an idea into something real.It’s a conversation about trusting the twists and turns, embracing who you are, and realizing that you don’t have to have it all figured out to start.CONNECT WITH TENESHA CORNwebsite: www.cornflowercreative.comwww.rubygalleryandevents.comInstagram: cornflowercreativeFacebook.com/cornflowercreativewaCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

When nobody is clapping?This episode is a reminder that confidence isn’t built through recognition... it’s built by keeping promises to yourself. The work you do in the quiet moments, the early mornings, and the days nobody notices is what ultimately shapes the person you become.If you’ve been feeling discouraged, stuck, or wondering if your hard work is worth it, this conversation is for you.Because the world may celebrate the finish line but character is built long before anyone sees the result.Topics covered:• Consistency over motivation• Building a business through slow seasons• Confidence through action• Training when nobody is watching• The power of keeping promises to yourself• Becoming before achievingCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram @MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

What does it really take to turn a passion into a place people feel connected to?In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with Annalee, owner of Rise & Shine Bake Shop, to talk about the journey from baking at home to building one of the Tri-Cities’ most loved gathering spaces.We dive into the real behind-the-scenes of entrepreneurship — the fears, growth, sacrifices, community support, and messy middle that often goes unseen. But beyond the pastries and coffee, this conversation is really about creating something meaningful: a space where people feel welcomed, seen, and at home.From taking the leap before feeling fully ready to balancing family, business, and personal growth, Annalee shares an honest and inspiring look at what it means to build a business rooted in heart and community.Whether you’re a small business owner, dreamer, creative, or someone navigating your own next chapter, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged to keep showing up for what matters most.CONNECT WITH RISE & SHINE BAKESHOPInstagram @RiseAndShine.Bakeshopwww.riseandshinebaleshopwa.comFacebook.com/RiseAndShineBakeshopLocation:308 W Kennewick AveKennewick, WACONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with the owner behind Haven Fitness to talk about building more than just a gym... they’re building a community where women can grow stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally.We dive into confidence through strength training, overcoming gym intimidation, redefining fitness culture, and creating a space where women feel supported instead of judged. This conversation is about so much more than workouts, it’s about empowerment, resilience, and learning to take up space unapologetically.Whether you’re deep into your fitness journey or scared to even begin, this episode is a reminder that strength looks different for everyone.CONNECT WITH HAVEN FITNESSInstagram @HavenFitnessTCWww.HavenFitnessTC.comhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1E1TL1ChLf/?mibextid=wwXIfrCONNECT WITH MARLAInstagram @OneToughCookiePodwww.marlascookieco.comInstagram MarlasCookieCoFacebook.com/MarlasCookieCo