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 University, a resource for further learning and development. The episode concludes with final business advice aimed at empowering small business owners to achieve their goals.
Leyanis Diaz is a Bilingual Business Expert & Consultant, Community & Economic Development Leader, and the visionary Founder of MAJOR, an online platform dedicated to supporting diverse entrepreneurs. With over a decade of experience empowering small business owners and professionals across the U.S. and Latin America, Leyanis helps bridge the language and resource gaps that often hold entrepreneurs back. Her work has impacted startups, nonprofits, and economic development organizations alike, helping them better reach and serve multicultural communities through inclusive programming, training, and strategy. Her mission is simple: to make business education and support accessible, actionable, and culturally relevant. For more information: wearemajor.com
Tara Landes is the founder of Bellrock Benchmarking, a Canadian consulting firm specializing in solving complex business challenges and driving lasting organizational change. With over 25 years of experience, she has advised 300+ small business leaders and led 950+ graduates through Bellrock’s management training programs. Tara holds certifications in Change Management (PROSCI) and is a Licensed Influence Trainer with The Cialdini Institute. A dynamic speaker, she has presented for organizations like TEC Canada and Engineers and Geoscientists BC. For more information: https://www.bellrock.ca
Listen to the podcast below:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Podcasts Mentioned:
- Side Hustle Pro with Nicaila Matthews Okome
- Under the Influence with Terry O’Reilly
Apps Mentioned:
Old School Marketing Tips:
- Send individualized gifts by postal mail specific to your client
- Pick up the phone and talk with people
- Focus on Benefits, not on Features
Books Mentioned:
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
- Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months by Melinda Emerson
- Getting Naked by Patrick Lencioni
- The Emyth Revisited by Micheal Gerber
- 10x is Easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan
Connect with Leyanis Diaz:
Website: https://leyanisdiaz.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leyanisdiaz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAmLeyanisDiaz
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IAmLeyanisDiaz
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/leyanisdiaz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamleyanisdiaz
Connect with Tara Landes:
Website: https://www.bellrock.ca
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in.taralandes
Twitter: https://x.com/taralandes
Get More!
Want to hear more episodes of The SmallBiz Chat Podcast? Subscribe on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode!
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Leave a Reply