Discussing fees with prospects can be one of the most challenging parts of the sales process, especially for women entrepreneurs. It’s a sensitive topic that, if not handled well, can lead to discomfort, misunderstanding, or even the loss of a potential client. However, with the right approach and money mindset, you can make these conversations […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Helping Philadelphia Area Businesses Export with Thomas Young
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Thomas Young and explores the World Trade Center Association and STEP Grants. They discuss exporting challenges, success strategies, and financing international deals. Thomas shares his best business advice. Thomas Young is President and CEO of the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP). He gained more than a decade of […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Get Regular Local Media Coverage with Mickie Kennedy
In this episode, Melinda Emerson chats with Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, about securing local press for small businesses. They discuss Mickie’s journey, tips for effectively pitching to local media, common mistakes, and his best business advice. Mickie Kennedy is the Founder and President of eReleases, the small business leader for press release distribution, now […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Fund Your Business From Investors with Lisha Bell
In this episode, Melinda Emerson chats with Lisha Bell about her journey into angel investing and venture capital. They delve into understanding different types of investors, common mistakes in seeking investment, and strategies for securing angel investors. They also discuss how to effectively pitch to potential investors and understand due diligence, closing with Lisha’s best […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How Getting Rest Can Grow Your Business with Alyson Caffrey
In this episode, Melinda Emerson chats with Alyson Caffrey about her journey as a solo entrepreneur and the importance of setting boundaries. They delve into the Sabbatical Method, overcoming guilt in business, and maintaining work-life balance through self-discipline. The discussion concludes with the best business advice Alyson has received. Alyson Caffrey is a small business […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Pitch Yourself for PR with Gloria Chou
Gloria Chou is an award-winning Small Business PR coach and host of the top-rated Small Business PR Podcast. Her untraditional yet proven PR methods that allow anyone to gain top-tier, earned media without needing to hire an agency, have industry connections, or any PR experience have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Crunchbase, and on […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Understanding the Winning Mindset with Dan Stalp
Dan Stalp is known as an energized entrepreneur, a business mentor, and a popular local and national speaker. Dan is the award-winning owner of Sandler Training of Kansas City, a renowned business development, coaching, and sales training business. Dan specializes in working with presidents and owners who sell, and peak-performer sales professionals who want to […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Leverage AI to Grow Your Business with Aprelle Duany
In this episode, Melinda Emerson talks with Aprelle Duany about the role of AI in businesses. They discuss Duany’s journey into AI, practical applications, and the challenges encountered in its adoption. Also, they explore how AI improves customer experience and the importance of diversity and accessibility in AI development. Aprelle Duany is a technology expert […]
How to Thrive as a Small Business for 25+ Years
Surviving and thriving in the competitive landscape of running a small business is no small feat. I’m proud to say this month, we here at Quintessence Group are celebrating 25 years in business. Honestly, I can’t believe it. It really doesn’t feel like it’s been that long. In the early years, we weathered the storms […]
What I’ve learned after 18 years in business
To my true amazement, this week marks my 18th year in business, and I must say it’s been a wild ride. In 1999, I was scared to death, I had a laptop, a fax machine and a dream and set up shop in the basement of my house. My neighbor, who was a contractor, came […]