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The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

Hosted by Melinda Emerson

BusinessMarketingInterviews guests

Episodes

361

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN

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
September 9, 2026Episode 36610 min

Hit It and Quit It with Clarence Wooten and Susan Hull Walker

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson starts with an introduction, providing an overview of the podcast and encouraging subscriptions. The episode is sponsored by Cofounder.ai. Melinda then introduces the "Hit It and Quit It" segment, where she engages in a rapid-fire discussion about business favorites, including podcasts, apps, marketing tricks, and books.

September 2, 2026Episode 36520 min

How Global Artisans Are Building Scalable Brands with Susan Hull Walker

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson welcomes Susan Hall Walker to discuss the inspiring journey behind the Ibu Movement and its impact on artisan networks. Susan shares the origins of Ibu and how it operates to expand and support artisan communities globally. The conversation highlights shifts in consumer preferences toward handmade goods and the operational challenges faced by artisan groups. Susan delves into the process of transforming local crafts into global brands and envisions the future of the global artisan economy.

August 26, 2026Episode 36426 min

How to Leverage AI Strategically to Grow Your Business with Clarence Wooten

In this episode of The SmallBizChat, Melinda Emerson welcomes Clarence Wooten to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative world of AI. Clarence shares his experiences with successful business exits and his transition from Google to founding CoFounder AI. The conversation highlights how CoFounder AI distinguishes itself from other AI tools and addresses common mistakes small businesses make when implementing AI. Clarence introduces the concept of software as a partner (SAP) and outlines the first steps small businesses should take to integrate AI effectively.

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.

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