Turning Challenges into Independence and Success with Marlee Kivens

Turning Challenges into Independence and Success with Marlee Kivens

What if the very challenges you face became the foundation for your greatest success? In this inspiring episode of Make Your Passion Pay, I sit down with Marlee Kivens, a top-performing Pampered Chef consultant whose story is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the impact of believing in yourself. Living with Spina Bifida and navigating physical challenges throughout her life, Marlee has consistently exceeded expectations and created opportunities where others saw limitations. From helping run her father's business at a young age to becoming an award-winning direct sales professional, she has built a life centered on independence, service, and purpose. Together, we explore: * How Marlee developed an entrepreneurial mindset growing up in her father's business * The importance of self-advocacy and believing in your own capabilities * Why living intentionally one day at a time creates greater fulfillment * How gratitude and reflection help build resilience * The role direct sales played in creating independence and confidence * Why authentic relationships and trust are essential in business * How community and connection support personal and professional growth Marlee shares how discovering Pampered Chef transformed her life in a very personal way. After struggling with traditional kitchen tools and relying on assistance to prepare meals, she found products that allowed her to cook independently and regain confidence in the kitchen. What began as a customer experience grew into a thriving business and a mission to help others experience greater freedom and enjoyment in their daily lives. We also discuss the power of consistency, maintaining a positive mindset, and focusing on what you can control. Marlee's approach to life's challenges is simple yet powerful: acknowledge difficult moments, allow yourself time to process, and then move forward with intention and purpose. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that success isn't defined by circumstances. It's built through commitment, courage, gratitude, and a willingness to keep moving forward one step at a time. Tune in to hear Marlee's incredible story and discover how resilience, passion, and purpose can help you create a life you love. Let's make your passion pay! Meet Marlee  Marlee Kivens is a top-performing Pampered Chef Independent Consultant, entrepreneur, and advocate for independence and self-sufficiency. Growing up in her father's Minneapolis-based business, she learned the fundamentals of customer service, communication, and entrepreneurship from an early age. Living with Spina Bifida and learning differences, Marlee has spent her life breaking barriers and exceeding expectations. She earned a college degree, built a successful career, and became an award-winning Pampered Chef consultant, earning top sales recognition and incentive travel opportunities through her dedication and passion. Through her business, Marlee helps people discover tools and products that make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and more accessible. She is especially passionate about helping individuals find greater confidence and independence in the kitchen. Her philosophy is simple: live for today, believe in yourself, and never let others define what is possible for your life. Connect with Marlee Website: www.pamperedchef.com/pws/kivenskitchenkorner [http://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/kivenskitchenkorner] Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kivenskitchenkorner [https://www.facebook.com/groups/kivenskitchenkorner] Email: mbkivens@gmail.com Interactive Catalog: https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/kivenskitchenkorner/interactive-catalog-page [https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/kivenskitchenkorner/interactive-catalog-page] Whether you're interested in hosting a party, fundraising, joining her team, or learning more about Pampered Chef products, Marlee would love to connect. Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnnB.com [http://luannb.com] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose! Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnn.com [https://luannb.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQxRFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfzoV4whMtsRQdP8fEi47K0RwaEQfrRVNhpJpNpR7ydOFfkViIPXeTWYUg_aem_kuIZ4CxL7pQZ7qC3AF0LFg] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose!

From Corporate America to Custom Creations: Turning Passion into Purpose with Deanne Krick

Have you ever dreamed of leaving corporate America to build something of your own, but wondered if it was really possible? In this episode of Make Your Passion Pay, I sit down with Deanna Krick, owner of Rusty Nail Custom Creations, to talk about what happens when life unexpectedly pushes you out of your comfort zone and into the business you were always meant to build. After spending more than 31 years in the corporate technology world, Deanna suddenly found herself facing an unexpected career transition. What started as a “someday retirement plan” with her husband quickly became a full-time entrepreneurial journey centered around handcrafted, personalized gifts that celebrate memories, milestones, faith, patriotism, and beloved pets. Together, we explore: * The emotional transition from corporate structure to entrepreneurship * Why networking and community support are essential for business growth * How BNI helped open doors, connections, and unexpected opportunities * The importance of clarity, coaching, and accountability in building a business * How Etsy, AI, and strategic collaborations helped Deanna grow her online store * Why you don’t have to do everything alone to build a successful business Deanna also shares how she combines handmade creations with manufacturer partnerships to expand her offerings while staying true to her mission of creating meaningful, joy-filled gifts. From pet memorials to personalized family keepsakes, her work is rooted in heart, connection, and helping people celebrate the moments that matter most. One of the most inspiring parts of this conversation is hearing how quickly things shifted once Deanna leaned into community, coaching, and collaboration. In less than a year after launching her Etsy shop, she celebrated her first $3,000 month in sales; proof that small, consistent steps really can lead to big transformation. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could turn your passion into profit, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out before you begin. Sometimes the next step simply starts with putting yourself out there and saying yes to support. Join us as we talk about courage, creativity, connection, and building a business that truly brings joy. Let’s make your passion pay. Meet Deanna  Deanna Krick is the owner of Rusty Nail Custom Creations, a small business specializing in handcrafted, personalized wood and laser-engraved gifts. Through Rusty Nail, Deanna creates meaningful pieces that help people celebrate memories, milestones, faith, patriotism, pets, and the people they love most. After more than three decades in corporate America leading data and technology teams, Deanna made the leap into entrepreneurship alongside her husband, Jason. Together, they are building a business rooted in creativity, personalization, and heartfelt connection. Deanna is also an active BNI member who is passionate about building relationships, supporting local businesses, and embracing the power of networking and collaboration. Through Etsy, craft shows, and community connections, she continues to grow Rusty Nail Custom Creations while inspiring others to believe that it’s never too late to pursue what brings them joy. Connect with Deanna Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RustyNailCustom?ref=seller-platform-mcnav [https://www.etsy.com/shop/RustyNailCustom?ref=seller-platform-mcnav]Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B8XRL32Rx/?mibextid=wwXIfr [https://www.facebook.com/share/1B8XRL32Rx/?mibextid=wwXIfr] Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don’t forget to visit LuAnnB.com [https://luannb.com/] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let’s spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose! Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnn.com [https://luannb.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQxRFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfzoV4whMtsRQdP8fEi47K0RwaEQfrRVNhpJpNpR7ydOFfkViIPXeTWYUg_aem_kuIZ4CxL7pQZ7qC3AF0LFg] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose!

Finding Your Next Step in Midlife: Faith, Clarity, and Life Mapping with Danielle Allen

Have you ever felt restless, stuck, or unsure of your next step, even when life looks “fine” on the outside? In this episode of Make Your Passion Pay, I sit down with Danielle Allen, founder of One Foot Coaching, to explore how Christian women in midlife can reconnect with their identity, discern God’s voice, and take small, faithful steps toward a life aligned with purpose. Danielle shares her journey from feeling uncertain about her own path to creating a coaching practice that helps women navigate the transition to their next chapter. We talk about the tools and practices she uses to guide her clients, including the Enneagram and her signature Life Mapping process, which helps women uncover patterns, reflect on past experiences, and step confidently into what’s next. We also dive into: * Why midlife restlessness is often an invitation to discover what’s next * How self-awareness through the Enneagram can clarify your purpose * Why clarity doesn’t always come before action, and why small steps matter * How Life Mapping works to integrate reflection, faith, and practical action * Strategies to identify and silence your inner critic while embracing your inner champion Whether you’re an empty nester, a woman exploring her calling, or simply looking to reconnect with your purpose, this conversation will give you practical tools and inspiration to take the next faithful step in your life. Tune in and discover how to turn uncertainty into clarity, faith into action, and reflection into real-life results. Meet Danielle Danielle Allen is the founder of One Foot Coaching, where she works with Christian women in midlife who feel restless, stuck, or unsure of their calling. With a Master’s degree in Theological Studies and certifications in coaching and the Enneagram, Danielle combines spiritual depth with practical tools to help women reconnect with their identity and discern God’s voice with confidence. Through her Life Mapping process, Danielle guides women to reflect on their lives, uncover patterns, and take small, faithful steps toward purpose-driven living. She is passionate about helping women trust their inner guidance, embrace their strengths, and move confidently into their next chapter. Connect with Danielle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-allen-coaching/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-allen-coaching/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onefootcoaching [https://www.instagram.com/onefootcoaching] Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don’t forget to visit LuAnnB.com [https://luannb.com/] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let’s spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose! Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnn.com [https://luannb.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQxRFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfzoV4whMtsRQdP8fEi47K0RwaEQfrRVNhpJpNpR7ydOFfkViIPXeTWYUg_aem_kuIZ4CxL7pQZ7qC3AF0LFg] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose!

Building a Business with Heart, Service, and Staying Power with Mark Nelson

What does it really take to build a business that not only succeeds, but genuinely serves? In this episode of Make Your Passion Pay, I sit down with Mark Nelson, owner of Service Pros Plumbing & Heating, to talk about what happens when passion, purpose, and customer care come together in a powerful way. Mark shares his journey from working in a toxic environment to being unexpectedly pushed into entrepreneurship, and how that moment became the catalyst for creating a business rooted in integrity, consistency, and exceptional service. With over four decades in the plumbing industry, Mark brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision: to create a better experience for both his customers and his team. We dive into what truly sets Service Pros apart, including their commitment to educating homeowners, offering transparent “good, better, best” options, and creating peace of mind through every interaction. Mark also opens up about the lessons learned along the way, from hiring challenges to redefining boundaries (including letting go of a “24/7” mindset that was burning him out). This conversation is a powerful reminder that your words, your values, and your vision shape the business you build. Mark’s story highlights the importance of aligning your work with your passions, creating a culture your team can thrive in, and being intentional about the experience you deliver every single day. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to grow your business in a way that feels good, this episode will inspire you to step into clarity, trust the process, and build something that truly reflects who you are. Join us as we explore what it means to lead with purpose, serve with heart, and create a business that works for your life, not the other way around. Let’s make your passion pay. Mark Nelson Bio: Mark Nelson is the owner of Service Pros Plumbing & Heating, LLC, with over 40 years of experience in the plumbing industry. His career has spanned everything from commercial construction management to hands-on service work, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the trade. Driven by a deep commitment to customer care, Mark founded Service Pros with the mission of delivering a better plumbing experience - one rooted in trust, education, and consistency. He is passionate about solving problems, supporting his team, and ensuring every customer feels confident and cared for. Through his leadership, Service Pros has grown into a trusted, community-focused business known for professionalism, transparency, and delivering true peace of mind. Connect with Mark: Service Pros Plumbing & Heating, LLC - https://www.serviceprosmn.com/ [https://www.serviceprosmn.com/] Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don’t forget to visit LuAnnB.com [https://luannb.com/] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let’s spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose! Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnn.com [https://luannb.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQxRFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfzoV4whMtsRQdP8fEi47K0RwaEQfrRVNhpJpNpR7ydOFfkViIPXeTWYUg_aem_kuIZ4CxL7pQZ7qC3AF0LFg] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose!

Thank God It’s Monday: Building a Business You Love with John Hewitt

What if you actually looked forward to Mondays? In this episode of Make Your Passion Pay, I sit down with legendary entrepreneur John Hewitt, the founder behind Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax, to talk about what it really takes to build a business you love and a life that excites you. With over 57 years in business and two $500 million companies under his belt, John shares not only the strategies behind his success, but the mindset that made it all possible. At the heart of John’s philosophy is a simple but powerful mantra: “Have fun and improve lives.” And throughout this conversation, he shows exactly how that principle has guided his leadership, his companies, and his impact on thousands of entrepreneurs. We dive into what separates great companies from good ones, and spoiler alert, it’s more than just strategy… it’s culture. John shares: * Why "Thank God it's Monday" should replace "Thank God it's Friday" * How company culture is the ultimate competitive advantage * Why employees should come first * The role of attitude and perseverance in long-term success * How to lead with strong core principles (not just values) * Why focusing on strengths creates extraordinary results We also explore how John built and scaled franchise empires, and how he ensures his message and culture reach thousands of locations without getting diluted. Now, as CEO of Loyalty Brands, John is focused on helping entrepreneurs step into their role as CEOs and build businesses that create both wealth and impact. If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or someone searching for more fulfillment in your work, this episode will challenge you to think differently and bigger. Tune in and start building a business (and life) you can’t wait to wake up to. John Hewitt Bio: John Hewitt is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, business leader, and franchise pioneer best known for founding two of the largest tax preparation companies in North America—Jackson Hewitt Tax Service and Liberty Tax Service. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has built multiple companies into nationally recognized brands, helping thousands of entrepreneurs succeed through franchising. John began his journey in the tax industry while attending the University at Buffalo, where a tax preparation course sparked his passion for business. He quickly rose through the ranks at H&R Block before launching Jackson Hewitt, which became one of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States and was eventually sold for approximately $500 million. He later founded Liberty Tax Service, growing it to over 4,000 locations across North America and further solidifying his reputation as a leader in business development and franchise systems. Today, John is the CEO of Loyalty Brands, a collection of franchise businesses spanning tax, accounting, and the rapidly growing pet services industry. Through his work, he is passionate about helping entrepreneurs become CEOs and build their own empires with purpose, strong leadership, and a focus on culture. He is also the author of the best-selling book iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy for Winning Can Be Yours, where he shares the principles and strategies behind his success. John’s mission is simple yet powerful: help people build successful businesses while having fun and improving lives. Connect with John: Website: https://loyaltybrands.com [https://loyaltybrands.com]Book: iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy for Winning Can Be Yours (available on his website) Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don’t forget to visit LuAnnB.com [https://luannb.com/] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let’s spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose! Thanks for tuning in! Remember to share and rate the episode if you enjoyed it. Don't forget to check out my website LuAnn.com [https://luannb.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGQxRFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHfzoV4whMtsRQdP8fEi47K0RwaEQfrRVNhpJpNpR7ydOFfkViIPXeTWYUg_aem_kuIZ4CxL7pQZ7qC3AF0LFg] and connect with me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/buechlerluann/] and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LuAnnBuechlerCoach]! Let's spread the joy and build thriving communities together. Keep pursuing your passion with purpose!