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 […]
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: 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 […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Michelle Songy and Ryan Hogan
In this episode, Melinda Emerson hosts a panel discussion with Michelle Songy and Ryan Hogan. Each guest shares their favorite podcast, a business app they find indispensable, a marketing tip, and a business book that has impacted them. Michelle Songy is the Founder and CEO of Press Hook, a media platform that helps small businesses […]
30 Best Small Business Podcasts of 2025
Podcasts are the new MBA for small business owners. Whether you’re a solopreneur building your brand from scratch, a seasoned business coach, or a product-based business scaling up, the right podcast can change everything. The best ones provide mentorship, industry insight, tactical tips, and tough-love motivation—all in under an hour. In 2025, there’s no shortage […]
How to Get PR for Your Small Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting featured in the media can be a game-changer for small business owners. One good press hit can lead to increased visibility, website traffic, credibility, and sales. But if you are an entrepreneur who thinks PR is only for big companies with deep pockets, that is just not true. You don’t need a publicist or […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Toni Johnson, Sherill Mosee, and Natalia Caylor
In this episode, Melinda Emerson hosts a panel discussion with Natalia Caylor, Sherill Mosee, and Toni Johnson. Each guest shares their favorite podcast, a business app they find indispensable, a marketing tip, and a business book that has impacted them. Toni Johnson is the Head Chef and CEO of The Jamaican Pattie Shop. A plant-based […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It and Quit It with Leyanis Diaz and Tara Landes
In this episode, Melinda Emerson presents highlights from the Hit It and Quit It Panel where experts Leyanis Diaz and Tara Landes share quick insights and strategies for small business success. The discussion includes top business book recommendations, providing valuable resources for entrepreneurs seeking knowledge and inspiration. Melinda offers acknowledgments and shares information about SmallBizLady […]
Win in Your Own Backyard: The Ultimate Guide to Local Marketing for Retailers
Let’s get real: You don’t need to be everywhere—you just need to own your ZIP code. As a retailer or franchisee, your power isn’t in chasing a global audience. It’s in knowing your customers, showing up for your community, and building a brand that people can’t stop talking about right down the street. Local marketing […]
How Smart Nonprofits are Building Recession-Proof Revenue Streams
Let’s face it—if your nonprofit is still relying solely on grant applications and those annual galas where board members reluctantly bid on vacation packages they don’t want, you might as well be using a rotary phone to call potential donors. In today’s economic climate, diversification isn’t just smart—it’s survival. Several nonprofit CEOs I’ve spoken with […]