In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Dr. Robert A. Needham to explore overcoming economic slavery and fear in entrepreneurship. They discuss the advantages and downsides of franchising and highlight the importance of maintaining a high gross margin in business. Dr. Needham shares his best business advice, providing listeners with valuable insights for navigating […] The post The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Select a Franchise Business with Dr. Robert Needham appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

The holiday shopping season is the most crucial period for many small businesses, often accounting for a significant portion of their annual revenue. As a small business owner, preparation is key to capitalizing on this busy time.  With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday there are lots of opportunities to make serious money. Whether […] The post Why Now is the Time to Get Ready for the Holiday Shopping Season appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Yvonne E.L. Silver, who shares her expertise on sales strategies tailored for women entrepreneurs. They discuss the art of influence in sales and effective methods for approaching potential sales targets. Yvonne highlights common sales mistakes and provides valuable advice for small business owners to overcome them. Yvonne […] The post The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Increase Sales Connections with Yvonne E.L. Silver appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

How to Understand Competition, Cost Structure, and Profitability Pricing a product or service is one of the most crucial decisions that any business owner faces. It determines whether the business will thrive, merely survive, or fail. Many small business owners make the mistake of setting prices based primarily on what competitors are charging. While it’s […] The post Are You Selling at the Right Price? appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Joanne Eriaku, who brings her expertise in AI to the discussion. They explore common misconceptions about AI and its practical applications for small businesses. Joanne outlines steps for implementing AI effectively while emphasizing the importance of data security. The conversation also delves into the challenges, risks, and […] The post The SmallBizChat Podcast: How to Leverage AI to Grow Your Business with Joanne Eriaku appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

As 2025 approaches quickly, small businesses are facing a dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape forcing you to reconsider or redesign your business model. From technological advancements to economic uncertainties, the challenges that lie ahead are both exciting and daunting. To stay competitive and thrive, we must all be proactive in addressing the following top five […] The post Top 5 Concerns for Small Businesses in 2025 appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

#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 post September 2024 #SmallBizChat: How to Use AI to Grow Your Business appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces guests Leticia Crippen and Reid Holmes and sets the stage for a lively discussion on favorite podcasts and business apps. The conversation shifts to old school marketing tips, where practical advice and best business book recommendations are shared. The episode wraps up having provided valuable resources for small business […] The post The SmallBizChat Podcast: Hit It or Quit It with Leticia Crippen and Reid Holmes appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

I am thrilled to announce that SmallBizLadyAcademy.com is officially open for business! After months of development, careful planning, and listening to the needs of my loyal women business owner, we’ve launched a platform designed to help you take your business to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced business owner […] The post SmallBizLadyAcademy.com is Now Open for Business! appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more

In this episode, Melinda welcomes guest Reid Holmes who shares his journey and search for impact in small businesses. They delve into the concept of appreciated branding, discussing its key components and how to implement it effectively across products and services. After 30 years as an ad agency creative executive – straddling the heyday of traditional […] The post The SmallBizChat Podcast: Appreciated Branding with Reid Holmes appeared first on Succeed As Your Own Boss ..read more