Meet Tonya Mack | Entrepreneur and Retired Air Force Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tonya Mack and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tonya, what role has risk played in your life or career?
When I think of risk, I think of uncertainty and things that scare me. Behind joining the Air Force, starting my business is one of the scariest things I’ve ever done! But, I’ve learned to welcome things that scare me. I’ve learned that magic happens outside of my comfort zone. Had I not joined the military, I would not have learned how to lead, manage and supervise. I would not have a paid education with no loans to pay back and I would not have traveled the world! All of those experiences define the woman I am today and I’m so grateful for them. There were many times in my career where I encountered things that scared me, but I did them scared. The same goes for my skincare business. I had no idea what I was doing when I started 5 years ago, but I can look back now and see growth! I’m so proud of that. I was scared to death on whether I could be successful in business. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. Still today, I do things that scare me or take risks in business, only because I know it is forcing me to grow and become a better me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Currently, I am a Brand Ambassador & Market Developer for Rodan and Fields premium skincare. In this capacity, I am passionate about creating a space for women of color to thrive in business and attain financial independence. I do this in a team environment that is supportive and like a family. We help each other to succeed. We care about building relationships first and making money second. There’s enough goodness for everybody to get theirs. Prior to that, I was an Active Duty Air Force Officer for 26 years. I got to where I am today, because I was blessed with great mentors and supervisors who not only believed in me, but pushed me to do more such as go to school, take the difficult jobs that no one else wanted and to take every opportunity to lead. It definitely was not easy, but I overcame challenges by believing in myself and abilities foremost. I also sought guidance from people who had been where I was trying to go and I worked hard.
I want the world to know that no matter what odds were/are stacked against me, I believe I’m going to win because I have the Favor of God. As an African American female, I realize that my journey isn’t only about me. It’s about representing my family well and showing little girls that look like me that they can achieve their dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First I would pick her up and take her to Old Town Litchfield to one of my favorite spots for Mexican food, Old Pueblo Cafe. We’d have Mexican food & margaritas and plan the rest of our itinerary, Since I’m close to Luke Air Force Base and spent 2 years of my career there, I’d probably then drive her around the base, highlighting what I was responsible for when there. We’ll probably make multiple trips out to Scottsdale so I could show her some of my favorite places to frequent. There’s Humble Bistro that has the best Brussel spout dish, I’ve ever had. I wasn’t a fan of Brussel sprouts until I had them there. They are shaved and charred, served on top of jalapeño hummus and topped with bacon! I also love to walk around Scottsdale Quarter and the Kierland shopping area. My favorite place to shop for home goods is also in Scottsdale and it has unique, imported pieces. The store is called Tierra de Lagarto. I also love downtown Phoenix eateries. A favorite go to is Postino’s wine bar where they have a great happy hour.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I’d like to shout out my parents. I am who I am because of them and how I was raised. My parents taught me to be a respectful person and raised me to think there was nothing I could not accomplish if I set my mind to it and put in the work. Next, I’d like to shout out my dear friend and mentor, Jen Griswold. We were in the Air Force together and it was her who introduced me to business ownership. She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself and didn’t give up on me after I told her no multiple times. I’m grateful to her for that.
I have 2 sisters who are now my business partners. We’re very close and support one another in everything.
Lastly, I’d like to thank my loyal customers who have supported me from the very beginning of my business! I wouldn’t be here without them.

Website: https://bossladybio.com/ladytmack42

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladytmack42

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-mack-76699b6b

Facebook: https://www.facebook/com/tonya.mack.35