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 BAKESHOP

Melissa Nissan

www.tspbakeshop.com

Instagram @tspbakeshop

Facebook.com/tspbakeshopwa

HOST

Marla Rogers

Instagram @onetoughcookiepod

www.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.com

Instagram:

@layeredcakeartistry

Facebook.com/layeredcakeartistry

TikTok:

LayeredCakeArtistry

Host:

Marla Rogers

@OneToughCookiePod

@marlasCookieCo

Fine Lines, Deep Meaning: The Stories That Live in the Chair

In 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 Julie

Website:

https://finelinestattoo.glossgenius.com

Instagram:

Finelinestattoo.byjulie

Host: Marla Rogers

@OneToughCookiePod

@MarlasCookieCo