Winning a corporate contract isn’t about dazzling a room and waiting for magic. It’s a structured march, from the first conversation to a cleanly issued purchase order (PO), timely payment and ultimately, repeat business. Below is a practical, end-to-end playbook you can follow to turn interest into revenue without getting lost in procurement purgatory. A […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Toni Harris Taylor and Michelle Songy
In this episode, Melinda Emerson presents the “Hit It and Quit It” segment, engaging in lively discussions on key business topics with Toni Harris Taylor and Michelle Songy. Each guest shares their favorite podcast, a business app they find indispensable, a marketing tip, and a business book that has impacted them. Toni Harris Taylor, an […]
How to Transition Your Free Community into a Paid Membership
Selling through community is a way to always be able to get instant feedback on offers and print money. But turning a free community like a Facebook group into a paid membership isn’t just about adding a paywall. It’s a careful shift in positioning, value delivery, and member experience. Do it well and you’ll gain […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Make Networking Pay Off with Toni Harris Taylor
In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Toni Harris Taylor to discuss strategic networking for small business owners. Toni shares insights on common misconceptions about networking and her transition into franchising. The conversation highlights how Network in Action operates and its success stories, emphasizing the art of follow-up in networking. Toni provides strategies for […]
September 2025 #SmallBizChat: How to Grow Your Revenue with Retreats
#Smallbizchat Podcast LIVE is a monthly video interview show where small business owners can get answers to their questions. The focus of #Smallbizchat is to end small business failure by helping participants succeed as your own boss. Please join us live every third Wednesday of the month from 8-9 pm ET Live on my SmallBizLady Facebook […]
10 Workflows Systems Every Small Business Needs
Running a successful small business takes more than talent, passion, or a good product. It requires systems, specifically workflow systems that guide how work gets done, from attracting prospects to delivering your service or product and getting paid. These systems help you operate more efficiently, reduce errors, enhance the customer experience, and ultimately grow your […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Grow Your Revenue with Retreats with Sheri Rosenthal
In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Sheri Rosenthal to discuss the power of retreats as business growth tools. Sheri shares her expertise on how retreats can serve as effective revenue streams and strengthen client relationships. The conversation covers key aspects of planning and marketing successful retreats, including avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring participant […]
15 Ways to Be More Profitable in Your Small Business
Everyone wants to be more profitable. After all, profit is how we keep score in business. It’s not about what you make—it’s about what you keep. Many small business owners confuse revenue with success, but true sustainability comes from consistent profit. The good news is that you don’t always need a complete overhaul to boost […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Will AI Replace the SmallBizLady with Melinda Emerson
In this episode, Melinda Emerson delves into the challenges and opportunities SaaS brands face in building brand awareness. She explores the evolving landscape of AI versus human coaching in business, sharing insights on her unique strengths and the future role of AI in coaching. The discussion extends to integrating AI into business strategies, offering practical […]
How to Reinvent Your Business: A 7-Step Guide to Starting Fresh and Scaling Online
Sometimes, a business runs its course. What once brought joy, profit, and purpose begins to feel like a burden. Maybe the market changed. Maybe your heart changed. Or maybe the model you built simply doesn’t work anymore in the digital age. Whatever the reason, it’s okay to start over. Reinvention doesn’t mean failure. In fact, […]