Few questions matter more to a business owner than this one: Can the company continue to operate smoothly if I step away for a period of time? The Owner Absence Test is a practical experiment that answers that question. It exposes single points of failure, uncovers undocumented processes, and reveals whether your team, systems, and […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Grow a Business Right Now with Sharif J. Small
In this episode, Melinda Emerson welcomes Sharif Small to discuss essential growth strategies for small business owners. They explore the significance of financial planning and efficient systems, highlighting common areas where entrepreneurs may be missing out on potential income. The conversation shifts to building generational wealth and effective tax strategies for safeguarding and increasing profits. […]
How to Build a Small Business That Lasts 100+ Years
Most small business owners are focused on survival. Making payroll, closing the next deal, and keeping customers happy this month are real priorities, and they matter. But if you only build for the next quarter, you will never create something that lasts for generations. Enduring businesses are not accidents. They are designed with intention, discipline, […]
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 […]
10 Things To Do To Get Your Business Ready for 2019
Guest Article December is here! Before you get all soft and gooey about the holidays, it is important to take time to set things up right so you can achieve your business goals for 2019! You must plan your success for next year. Here are 10 things to do to get your business ready for […]




