Ep 33: More Than a Bakery: Building Community Through Rise & Shine Bake Shop

Ep 33: More Than a Bakery: Building Community Through Rise & Shine Bake Shop

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 BAKESHOP Instagram @RiseAndShine.Bakeshop www.riseandshinebaleshopwa.com Facebook.com/RiseAndShineBakeshop Location: 308 W Kennewick Ave Kennewick, WA CONNECT WITH MARLA Instagram @OneToughCookiePod www.marlascookieco.com Instagram MarlasCookieCo Facebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

Ep 32: Building Haven Fitness: Teaching Woman Confidence Through Strength

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 FITNESS Instagram @HavenFitnessTC Www.HavenFitnessTC.com https://www.facebook.com/share/1E1TL1ChLf/?mibextid=wwXIfr CONNECT WITH MARLA Instagram @OneToughCookiePod www.marlascookieco.com Instagram MarlasCookieCo Facebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

Ep 31: From Trend to Community: The Story Behind Banded By Bloxham

What happens when you introduce something completely new to your community… and then watch an entire industry grow around it? In this episode of One Tough Cookie, I sit down with the owners of Banded By Bloxham to talk about the journey of helping bring permanent jewelry to the Tri-Cities, building a recognizable local brand, and navigating entrepreneurship as partners both in business and in life. We talk about the reality of growing alongside a fast-moving industry, the importance of community over competition, the behind-the-scenes of running a business together, and what it takes to stay grounded while building something meaningful. This conversation is honest, inspiring, and a reminder that successful businesses are built on connection just as much as creativity. CONNECT WITH BANDED BY BLOXHAM Instagram @banded.by.bloxham facebook.com/banded.by.bloxham https://banded-by-bloxham.square.site CONNECT WITH MARLA Instagram @OneToughCookiePod www.marlascookieco.com Instagram @MarlasCookieCo Facebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

Ep 30: Mid Columbia Children's Museum: From Idea to Movement: Building a Children’s Museum Without a Building

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 mission If you’re local or just love hearing real stories of people building something meaningful, this one’s for you. 💛 CONNECT WITH MARLA Instagram @OneToughCookiePod www.marlascookieco.com Instagram @MarlasCookieCo Facebook.com/MarlasCookieCo

Ep 29: From Adversity to Impact: The Story Behind Resilience Beauty Studio

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 story Navigating life as a teen mom Building a business with purpose Confidence, identity, and transformation through beauty Giving back to your community in meaningful ways Listen in and be reminded: resilience isn’t about having a perfect story, it’s about choosing to keep going. CONNECT WITH EDITH Instagram: @resiliencebeautystudiollc @blondingbyedith CONNECT WITH MARLA Instagram @OneToughCookiePod www.marlascookieco.com Instagram @MarlasCookieCo Facebook.com/MarlasCookieCo