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: @howsweettc

Www.howsweettc.com

🍪 Follow Marla & One Tough Cookie:

@marlascookieco

@OneToughCookiePod

Www.marlascookieco.com

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 experiences

Bliss Events

IG: bliss.events.wa

Facebook.com/blisseventstc

Www.blisseventstc.com

Host:

Marla Rogers

IG: MarlasCookieCo

Podcast 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/abitofhappiness

IG: @abitofhappinessfarm

TikTok: abitofhappinessfarm

Website: www.abitofhappinessfarm.com

Host: Marla Rogers

@OneToughCookiePod

@MarlasCookieCo

www.marlascookieco.com

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

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 Goodies

Website: www.bossfarmsllc.com

TikTok: JoJosFreezeDriedGoodies

FB: JoJo’s Freeze Dried Goodies

IG: @JoJosFreezeDriedGoodies

@jamesnuthousecrazypb

@Lilliepopscandiedfruit

@OneToughCookiePod

Host: 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 you.

Instagram

@bagg.books

Website:

www.baggbooks.com

@OneToughCookiePod

Host: Marla Rogers

@MarlasCookieCo