The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

Hosted by Melinda Emerson

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Episodes

360

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Aug 2026

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About the show

A series focused on small business advice and strategies, by Melinda Emerson, known as "SmallBizLady", discussing various aspects of entrepreneurship and small business management. Get insights from experts about topics relevant to small business owners.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 19, 2026Episode 3638 min

Hit It and Quit It with Jane Veron and LaChelle Adkins

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson kicks things off with a brief introduction and sponsor mention, followed by the engaging "Hit it and quit it" segment. The conversation shifts to a lively discussion about favorite business tools and marketing tips, offering listeners practical insights to enhance their business strategies. The episode also explores essential business literature, highlighting some of the best books for entrepreneurs.

August 12, 2026Episode 36224 min

How to Utilize Collaboration to Grow Your Visibility with LaChelle Adkins

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson is joined by LaChelle Adkins to explore the power of collaboration in small business success. LaChelle shares her journey into coaching and emphasizes the importance of choosing collaboration over traditional marketing. The discussion delves into the difference between networking and strategic collaboration, highlighting common mistakes and offering creative strategies for small businesses. LaChelle shares insights on overcoming fear when approaching potential partners and recounts a personal success story.

August 5, 2026Episode 36121 min

How to Leverage Coaching to Grow Your Business with Jane Veron

In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Jane Veron to delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship and the support offered by the Acceleration Project (TAP). Jane shares her background and discusses the common challenges entrepreneurs face, including capital and credit issues, and emphasizes the importance of coaching and seeking help. They explore how to become a coach and access TAP services, and discuss building an advisory ecosystem. Jane highlights the signs that coaching is needed and shares insights on TAP's reach and success. The conversation concludes with practical steps for overwhelmed entrepreneurs, identifying TAP's ideal customer, and sharing valuable business advice.

July 29, 2026Episode 3609 min

America at 250: Mary Ellen Pleasant - America's First Black Venture Capitalist

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson delves into the remarkable entrepreneurial journey of Mary Ellen Pleasant as part of the America 250 series. The discussion covers Pleasant's ventures during the California Gold Rush and draws parallels with modern AI advancements. Melinda highlights Pleasant's role as America's first black venture capitalist, her challenges, and her use of social capital to champion civil rights.

July 22, 2026Episode 3599 min

America at 250: Mary Katharine Goddard - America's First Woman Publisher

In this episode, Melinda Emerson continues the America 250 series by spotlighting Mary Katharine Goddard, a pioneering figure in American history. The discussion begins with an overview of Goddard's early life and her significant contributions as a printer and distributor of the Declaration of Independence. Melinda examines Goddard's role as a postmaster and the enduring legacy she left in the realm of entrepreneurship.

July 15, 2026Episode 35815 min

America at 250: Frederick Douglass - The Power of Owning Your Voice

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson highlights Frederick Douglass's remarkable entrepreneurial journey as part of the America 250 series. The discussion delves into Douglass's early life, his escape from slavery, and his rise as a prominent public speaker. Melinda explores Douglass's founding of The North Star newspaper, emphasizing his pursuit of financial independence and mission-driven entrepreneurship.

July 8, 2026Episode 35717 min

America at 250: James Forten - America’s First Black Millionaire

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces a special series spotlighting historical entrepreneurs, focusing on James Forten. The discussion highlights Forten's early life and challenges, his significant role in the American Revolution, and his innovative contributions to sail making. Melinda delves into Forten's acquisition of the sail loft and his approach to building a skilled workforce. The episode also explores his philanthropic efforts and family legacy.

July 1, 2026Episode 35620 min

America at 250: Benjamin Franklin - America's First Great Entrepreneur

In this episode, Melinda Emerson delves into a special series spotlighting notable entrepreneurs, with a focus on Ben Franklin as America's first mega entrepreneur. The discussion covers Franklin's early life, self-learning, and his move to Philadelphia, highlighting his printing career and the acquisition of the Pennsylvania Gazette. Melinda explores the creation and impact of Poor Richard's Almanac and Franklin's innovative business model, including his approach to franchising. The episode also examines Franklin's contributions to public institutions and key entrepreneurial lessons that can inspire today's small business owners.

June 24, 2026Episode 35529 min

How to Use Social Ecosystems to Build Your Business with Terry James

In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Terry James, who shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights on the impact of social media on loneliness and consumer behavior. Terry provides an overview of his ventures, OffLeashed and Nibble and Wag, emphasizing the importance of listening to customers. The discussion explores the distinction between building an audience and fostering a community, and how to balance community engagement with innovation.

June 17, 2026Episode 3547 min