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, […]
The Team you Need to Buy a Business or Franchise (And Why Going Solo Is a Costly Mistake)
Buying a business or franchise is one of the smartest ways to step into entrepreneurship, but it’s also one of the fastest ways to lose money if you try to do it alone. Too many first-time buyers focus only on the deal, the price, the brand, and the opportunity, without considering the team needed to […]
Best of the SmallBizChat Podcast 2026
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 […]
How to Champion a “Better Together” Culture in a Small Business
Every small business owner dreams of having a team that works like a family, where people trust one another, collaborate seamlessly, and go above and beyond because they care about the mission. But creating that kind of environment does not happen by accident. It happens through intentional leadership and a daily commitment to culture. A […]
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 […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Have Maximum Impact in Your Business with Tara Landes
In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Tara Landes to explore the multifaceted role of a business president. Tara discusses the impact and priorities that come with the position, emphasizing the importance of balancing day-to-day operations with strategic planning. The conversation covers effective hiring and team-building strategies, highlighting the role of leadership and the […]
The SmallBizChat Podcast: Leadership Strategies During the Coronavirus Pandemic with Andrew Andrews-Ramirez
Andrew Andrews-Ramirez is a former infantry soldier turned entrepreneur. He graduated from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business after leaving the military. Andrew is the CEO of VargasAndrews, an international professional services company that specializes in business turnarounds. With a passion for transforming businesses and business owners’ lives, he helps leaders become more […]
Top 10 Boss Books for Your Summer Reading List
Who said that your summer reading list has to only be romance novels that you devour while lounging on the beach? Sprinkle in some of my favorite “boss” books to amplify your summer reading. Learn from other business owners the struggles and adversities they faced while starting their companies. You’ll also discover new strategies and […]
March 2021 #Smallbizchat: Building a Sales System to Scale and Build Wealth
#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 […]
February 2021 #Smallbizchat: The State of Small Business Recovery
#Smallbizchat Podcast LIVE is a monthly video show where small business owners can get answers to their questions. The focus of #Smallbizchat LIVE 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 […]