The #SmallBizChat Podcast had a powerhouse year, delivering some of the most insightful conversations in entrepreneurship, leadership, AI, franchising, marketing, and small business growth. Whether you are a seasoned CEO or a professional woman stepping into entrepreneurship for the first time, these episodes unpack the strategies, tools, and mindsets needed to thrive in today’s rapidly […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Franchise with Nancy Williams
In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Nancy Williams to explore the world of franchising for aspiring business owners. Nancy shares insights from her own franchising journey, addressing common misconceptions and the importance of self-assessment before becoming a franchisee. The discussion covers financial considerations, evaluating the health of franchise systems, and tips for finding […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Could Franchising Be For You with Mary Kennedy Thompson
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Mary Kennedy Thompson, who shares her journey from military service to a thriving career in franchising. Mary discusses her experience running a Cookies by Design franchise and her transition to the franchisor side, highlighting her leadership roles at Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Neighborly. She also delves into her current […]
SmallBizLady Summer Reading List 2025
Why Summer Is the Perfect Season to Grow Your Mind—and Your Business—with Books. There’s something magical about summer. The pace slows down, the days stretch longer, and there’s finally space to breathe—and think. It’s not just a season for vacations and cookouts; summer is a prime opportunity to invest in yourself. While others are unwinding, […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Franchise Your Business with Keenan Fisher
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Keenan Fisher, who shares insights into his company’s unique business model and franchising journey. The discussion covers Tommy Gun’s expansion strategy, including market testing and the importance of a strong support network. Keenan delves into the legal aspects and financing of franchising, providing valuable information for those considering this […]
December 2024 #SmallBizChat: How to Franchise Your Business
#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 […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Franchising Forward with Your Small Business with Christy Ford
Christy Ford is the co-founder of The Scout Guide. She started her career as a photographer and later moved to Charlottesville, opening a Georgian antique and home store with her mother. As the business grew, Christy realized there was a lack of successful advertising opportunities for local small businesses. She was driven to find a […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It & Quit It with Sarah Durham, Joel Libava, & Brandi Mitchell
Sarah Durham is an entrepreneur and creative consultant passionate about helping entrepreneurs. She founded Big Duck in 1994 to help nonprofits increase their visibility, raise money, and communicate more effectively. Now, she serves on its board of directors after selling the business to her employees in 2021. Sarah now provides coaching to entrepreneurs, nonprofit […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Choose A Winning Franchise with Joel Libava
Joel Libava is The Franchise King® and a franchise veteran with 20+ years of experience. He is the author of two books on buying and researching franchises. In addition, he is a franchise owner advisor, working one-on-one with people who want to explore franchise ownership in the safest way possible. He also owns and operates […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Get Started in the World of Franchising with Rebecca Monet
Rebecca Monet is CEO and chief scientist of Zorakle Profiles and co-host of The Franchise Woman podcast Where Passion & Purpose Collide. Rebecca has been in the franchise consulting and psychometric assessment business since 1993. Known for her uncanny ability to draw performance correlations, she is fascinated with neurology, neuroeconomics, and human performance as it […]