In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Amber Banks to explore the critical role of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in business financing. They delve into understanding CDFIs, tackling credit score issues, and the challenges of borrowing. Amber discusses how CDFIs advocate for small businesses and assist with urgent cash flow needs. The conversation […]
Why Trust Is the Ultimate Growth Strategy in Business
Trust is not a “soft skill.” It is not a vibe. And it is definitely not optional. Trust is one of the most powerful and overlooked drivers of business success. Strong small businesses don’t just sell products or services; they build confidence with everyone they touch. Employees trust leadership. Vendors trust commitments. Customers trust promises. […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Joe Mindak and Michelle Walker-Davis
In this episode, Melinda Emerson kicks off The SmallBizChat with a discussion on favorite business tools and tips. She shares her own recommendations and invites listeners to explore new strategies for enhancing their business operations. The conversation transitions to recommended business books, highlighting influential reads that have shaped successful entrepreneurs. Joe Mindak is a connector, operator, […]
Why Small Businesses Succeed: What the Best Owners Get Right
Small businesses don’t succeed because their owners are luckier, louder, or more passionate than everyone else. They succeed because they are led with clarity, discipline, and intention. While hype culture glorifies hustle and constant motion, long-lasting businesses follow far more grounded principles. Over time, clear patterns emerge that explain why some businesses grow steadily while […]
February 2026 #SmallBizChat: How to Get Paid for Making Connections
The SmallBizChat Podcast is a weekly interview show dedicated to helping small business owners. Each episode features practical insights, expert guests, and actionable strategies designed to help entrepreneurs build profitable, sustainable businesses. Hosted by Melinda Emerson, “SmallBizLady,” the mission of SmallBizChat is to end small business failure. From sales and marketing to finance, leadership, and […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Monetize Connections with Joe Mindak
In this episode, Melinda Emerson welcomes Joe Mindak to discuss the art of monetizing relationships. Joe shares insights into his background and emphasizes the importance of treating referrals as a viable revenue channel. They explore strategies for converting referrals into revenue and the practice of paying for introductions while maintaining strong relationships. The conversation highlights […]
For Better or Worse: The Vows Every Business Owner Eventually Learns
We rarely describe small business ownership as a love story. We dress it up as ambition, independence, or strategy. We talk about growth plans, revenue targets, and market positioning. But if you’ve owned a business long enough, you know the truth most owners eventually discover, often the hard way. Business ownership is one of the […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Business Development in 2026 with Michelle Walker-Davis
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis, exploring her journey and the significance of her title, “$850 Billion Boss.” They discuss common myths about grants and the competitive nature of government contracts. The conversation delves into the role of AI and generative technology at Imperial Management Group, emphasizing the importance of documentation for […]
The Team you Need to Buy a Business or Franchise (And Why Going Solo Is a Costly Mistake)
Buying a business or franchise is one of the smartest ways to step into entrepreneurship, but it’s also one of the fastest ways to lose money if you try to do it alone. Too many first-time buyers focus only on the deal, the price, the brand, and the opportunity, without considering the team needed to […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Carson Wagner, Angela Williams, and Dr. Stephanie West
In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Angela Williams, Dr. Stephanie West, and Carson Wagner for a panel discussion on their favorites in the world of podcasting, top apps for small business owners, marketing tips to enhance business growth, and must-read business books that have influenced their journeys. Carson Wagner, is the Founder and […]
- 1
- 2
- 3
- …
- 255
- Next Page »