Podcasts about smallbizchat

Steven Pope | Strategies for Your Amazon Business SuccessSTEVEN POPESteven Pope is the founder of My Amazon Guy, a marketing agency managing 300+ active brands. Steven is a best-selling author with his book “Amazon Selling Tips,” which hit the top business books lists on all of Amazon. Steven started his career as a TV reporter in Idaho then was an eCommerce Director for 10 years for brands ranging from Gold & Silver Coins to Women's Plus Size Clothing. Steven then created My Amazon Guy, an agency with 300+ employees on growing traffic and sales on Amazon. Steven not only owns MAG but also My Refund Guy, My Warehouse Guy, 4 Amazon Brands. Steven has​ been viewed by millions of people on YouTube in thousands of videos where he shows how to handle ANY problem faced on Amazon.For more information: www.myamazonguy.comMELINDA EMERSON Melinda Emerson, the SmallBizLady, is America's #1 Small Business Expert. She has been a thriving entrepreneur for nearly 20 years and is a internationally-known keynote speaker and expert on small business development and social media marketing. She publishes a resource blog, https://succeedasyourownboss.com/​Her small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. A pioneer in social media marketing, she is the creator and host of #Smallbizchat​, the longest running live chat on Twitter for small business owners. Forbes magazine named her the #1 woman for entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter.The #SmallBizChat​ program airs LIVE monthly on the Melinda Emerson Facebook, YouTube and Twitter Channels.Broadcast and remotely-produced by Robert Hix with Hixvideo in Gaithersburg, MD.Support the Show.

In today's busy business world, success is not determined solely by external factors. In this episode of SmallBizChat, Melinda talks about the power of mindset to your business success.“Entrepreneurship brings with it a lot of stress - you really do want to prioritize and promote relaxation and stress reduction whenever you can get it.” – Melinda EmersonThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:70-80% of our tens of thousands of thoughts each day are negative. Cultivating a healthy mindset habit. Reframing to avoid self-sabotage.Starting a gratitude practice.Surrounding yourself with positivity. Finding joy in what you do. Prioritizing and promoting relaxation and stress reduction. Treating yourself with kindness and compassion. Resources Mentioned:Brand in Demand Live! - https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemandlive/ BossQuiz: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/boss-quiz/

In 2001, Chris Carr launched a start-up in his spare time – a marketing company called Farotech. What started primarily as a web design firm quickly grew into a comprehensive digital marketing agency specializing in helping clients in the healthcare, orthopedics, manufacturing, SaaS, and cybersecurity fields see explosive growth through a proven marketing system. Since early 2020, Chris has become a thought leader in artificial intelligence (AI). Through years of analysis, workshops, and hands-on experience, he's observed the rise of modern AI and its potential to reshape the business landscape. Recognizing that most businesses are not ready for this massive disruption from AI, Chris offers workshops and lunch-and-learns to equip businesses for the future that's already here. Find out more at farotech.com. Today, we're going to talk about AI and branding. My guest, Chris Carr, is at the forefront of these topics. He will share actionable tips that you can start doing now to incorporate AI into your business so you aren't left behind when everyone else moves forward with that technology. “If you're an individual who's not willing to adopt that technology [AI], there's a chance you will get replaced by somebody who does. ” – Chris CarrThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:Building hyper-personalization into your marketing. Why your marketing should start with your branding. The stages of solving a problem. How AI is changing every industry. Targeting your brand to your audience. Standing out in an AI-filled marketplace.Chat priming. Authenticity in branding. Resources Mentioned:Become Your Own Boss: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/ Boss Quiz: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/boss-quiz/ There's an AI for That: https://theresanaiforthat.com/ SparkToro: https://sparktoro.com/ BuzzSumo: https://buzzsumo.com/ Connect with Chris Carr:Website: https://farotech.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-carr-84b1a02/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/chris_carr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Farotech Podcast: https://farotech.com/podcasts/ LinkedIn:Can your brand survive and thrive in an AI-centric world? Chris Carr of Farotech believes it can, but only with the right strategies in place. Join us on the SmallBizChat Podcast as we explore the role of AI in branding and the key shifts businesses must make to remain relevant. Listen in today!#SmallBizChat #business #AI #branding

As a business and growth strategy consultant, Jimmy Newson has worked with organizations of all sizes, but his specialty is working with small businesses and entrepreneurs. He founded Moving Forward Small Business, a membership-based organization that helps companies grow and achieve their goals through practical and actionable advice. Additionally, Jimmy has strategic partnerships with private, government, and nonprofit organizations, leveraging his extensive network and experience to provide businesses with comprehensive solutions for their needs. Find out more at movingforwardsmallbusiness.com. Today, we will discuss strategy from every angle you can imagine, and I have Jimmy Newson, a business and growth strategist and consultant. He specializes in working with small businesses and entrepreneurs and has great insights into what you can do today to improve your vision and strategy. “If you can start a strategy sooner rather than later, you're already headed in the right direction, you know what your true north is, and now you're headed there confidently.” – Jimmy NewsonThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:Why strategy is different, but equally important, for small businesses as it is for big companies. Starting your strategy sooner rather than later. What you need to know when building or updating your strategy. The power of having a vision and bringing your team in to create the vision. Utilizing the data of market analysis. Appropriate resource allocation to fit with your strategy. Leveraging tools to do the heavy lifting.Resources Mentioned:Become Your Own Boss: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/ Boss Quiz: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/boss-quiz/ SEMrush: https://www.semrush.com/ SpyFu: https://www.spyfu.com/ Winmo: https://www.winmo.com/ Cascade: https://www.cascade.app/ Connect with Jimmy Newson:Website: https://www.movingforwardsmallbusiness.com/ Website: https://www.jimmynewson.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmynewson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimmylnewson/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jimmynewson1 LinkedIn:Strategy isn't just for the corporate giants; it's a game-changer for small businesses too. In the latest episode of SmallBizChat Podcast, I chat with Jimmy Newson about why starting your strategy early is the ticket to confident growth. Get insights on leveraging tools, market analysis, and crafting a vision with your team here!#SmallBizChat #smallbusiness #business #strategy

David Newman is the best-selling author of Do It! Marking and his latest book, Do It! Selling. He's also the founder of the Do It! MBA mentoring program and host of The Selling Show, a top-rated business podcast with over 300 episodes. David helps professional service sellers land better clients, bigger deals, and higher fees. For more information, head over to DoItMarketing.com/Selling.Miss Romina Brown is the President of Strategic Solutions International, the only female-led, black-owned category management firm on the planet. At SSI, Romina is supported by a global, diverse team of trained analysts, marketing research, and technology consultants with a proven track record of making a tremendous impact. Romina has served in various executive marketing and sales positions for well-known brands, including Eastman Kodak, Sara Lee, and L'Oreal USA. In 2004, she formed SSI with experience in both corporate and entrepreneurial environments. Romina provides context, insights, and guidance in developing strategies for diverse industries and levels of business. For more information, go over to SSIConsults.com. Kristie Jones is the go-to expert for companies wanting to build, grow, or scale their sales or customer success teams. She started Sales Acceleration Group in 2016 to help owners and founders increase revenue, reduce churn, and be able to scale more quickly. Her 20+ years as a sales leader in the SAS space fuels her passion for helping bootstraped and venture-backed founders. For more information, head over to SalesAccelerationGroup.com.Three of my amazing guests – David Newman, Romina Brown, and Kristie Jones – join me simultaneously for a fun, lighthearted, rapid-fire round of my favorite business questions.We get their opinions on business tools, old-school marketing tips, and great books for aspiring business owners.This week on SmallBizChat Podcast:Fun, fast-paced round of questioning.Our guests' favorite podcasts.Their favorite business app.Their favorite old-school marketing tip.Plus a few other questions about great resources for up-and-coming business leaders.Resources Mentioned:Brand in Demand Live! - https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemandlive/ BossQuiz: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/boss-quiz/ Podcasts Mentioned: Compete Every DayUnlocking Greatness Podcast with Zenja GlassMy First MillionApps Mentioned: UPC Item DBSlackMeta WorkplaceBooks Mentioned: Linchpin by Seth GodinRelentless by Tim S. GroverThe Power of Vulnerability by Brene BrownDisrupt You! by Jay SamitConnect with David Newman:Website: https://doitmarketing.com/ The Selling Show - https://doitmarketing.com/podcast/ Do It! Selling - https://doitmarketing.com/selling Connect with Romina Brown:Website: https://www.ssiconsults.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rominabrown/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ssiconsults/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/iambossbeauty Connect with Kristie Jones:Website: https://salesaccelerationgroup.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEOGJrgqo50OL-tTXgaaqHg Twitter: https://twitter.com/kristiekjones Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristiejones.sales/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiekjones/Ever wondered what other business owners are reading? Curious about which apps they can't live without? Then you'll want to tune into this quick-fire chat with David Newman, Romina Brown, and Kristie Jones. From podcasts to marketing tips, we're covering it all. Listen in for some great insights and laughs too!#SmallBizChat #podcast #businesspodcast #smallbusiness

Kristie Jones is the go-to expert for companies wanting to build, grow, or scale their sales or customer success teams. She started Sales Acceleration Group in 2016 to help owners and founders increase revenue, reduce churn, and be able to scale more quickly. Her 20+ years as a sales leader in the SAS space fuels her passion for helping bootstraped and venture-backed founders. For more information, head over to SalesAccelerationGroup.com.It is time to talk about sales from a completely different angle - we will talk about how to hire your first sales team. That is critical because hiring the wrong salesperson in your organization can torpedo your organization, but thinking that hiring a salesperson will save your business is also a big mistake. Listen in today to hear from our expert guest about what you need to know when hiring your first sales team. “Sales as a high-rejection sport. You need resilience. You need to have a positive attitude. You need to be able to get off that last sale call and pick up the next phone call and let that roll off your back.” – Kristie JonesThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:When you should bring on your first salesperson. Why the founder should lead sales (at least at first). The questions you should ask yourself when doing sales. Pricing and marketing before sales. Traits to look for in a salesperson. Mistakes people make when hiring salespeople. Cultural add, not cultural fit. Bringing in a sales manager. Resources Mentioned:BossQuiz: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/boss-quiz/ Brand in Demand LIVE! - https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemandlive Connect with Kristie Jones:Website: https://salesaccelerationgroup.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEOGJrgqo50OL-tTXgaaqHg Twitter: https://twitter.com/kristiekjones Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristiejones.sales/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiekjones/ LinkedIn: Thinking about hiring your first sales team? It's a big step, and getting it right is crucial. Join me with Kristie Jones, the founder of Sales Acceleration Group, as we discuss everything from the traits to look for in a salesperson to common mistakes to avoid. Tune in to this week's SmallBizChat Podcast and learn exactly what you need to know to hire a brilliant sales team!#SmallBizChat #smallbusiness #sales #salesteam

Nick Ron is the founder and CEO of House Buyers of America. He is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience as a real estate investor. He founded House Buyers of America in 2001, selling homes through his hybrid real estate model that balances technology with human on-the-ground expertise. Nick took the House Buyers of America from $0 to $50 million within his first three years of business operation. Nick is an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner and has been featured in USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, and the US News role report, to name a few. For more information, go to HouseBuyersofAmerica.com. If our current economy is stressing you out, you're in the right place. Today's guest, Nick Ron, has suggestions for weathering the storm and what we need to be thinking about going forward. Having been in the real estate industry since 2001, Nick has gone through some tough times in his business and shares great information on keeping your team strong and connected, regardless of where your business is at. “When your team sees the whole industry is struggling, and you're communicating with them frequently what you're doing to get through these difficult times and what you need from them to help you get through it, that makes things a lot easier.” – Nick RonThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:Making your money work for you. Challenges in growing a small business from nothing. Not having experience in your industry can give you an outside perspective to try new things. Reinvesting money into your business and creative funding. Reassuring your team when things get tough.Learning how to hire the right people and celebrating all successes.Mistakes many small businesses often make. Resources Mentioned:Brand in Demand Live! - https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemandlive/ Connect with Nick Ron:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-ron-875b4716/ Website: https://www.housebuyersofamerica.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HomeBuyersUS LinkedIn: Is the current economy stressing you out? Then the latest SmallBizChat Podcast is for you! My guest Nick Ron is the founder and CEO of House Buyers of America. He's gone through tough times in his business, so he's sharing suggestions on weathering the storm and keeping your team strong and connected. Don't be caught off guard…listen in today and prepare your small business for whatever may come!#SmallBizChat #business #podcast #economy

In today's episode, I want to encourage all of us to think about ways to enhance our overall happiness, productivity, and ability to handle stress. Because, as business owners, there's a lot of stress out here for us. There are a lot of things that can really knock you off your square. And so you want to make sure that you're taking care of yourself, you're taking care of your mental acuity and acquiring knowledge, skills, and abilities, and you are building a network for yourself so you can hear other people's perspectives and you're not the only voice that you're considering. “Sometimes we can get so caught up and be so busy in our businesses that we don't take care of our basic needs. Your business isn't worth it; if something happens to you, you won't even have a business.” – Melinda Emerson This week on SmallBizChat Podcast: ● Why investing in yourself is more than just education. ● Growing yourself to grow your business. ● Empowering yourself to achieve your goals.● Increasing your confidence and belief in yourself. ● Sparking your own business innovation. ● Putting yourself in target-rich environments and staying on top of industry trends. ● Investing in hobbies and going outside at least once a day. Resources Mentioned:● Brand in Demand Live: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemandlive/ LinkedIn: When was the last time you invested in yourself? My latest SmallBizChat Podcast discusses the importance of self-investment for better business outcomes. You're the engine driving your business…don't forget to refuel! #SmallBizChat #podcast #businesspodcast #smallbusiness

For the 200th Episode of the SmallBizChat, I wanted to discuss weathering the storms of life and business. It is after the rain that the flowers grow and prosper. The same is true for your business. Today we discuss how to weather those storms and become stronger in the aftermath. Listen in for an exciting announcement at the end!“Sometimes storms are necessary to focus on getting a new vision to create a new innovative idea. We can focus on preventing storms or learning to ride the storm. When you learn to ride, the storm is not a problem anymore. ” – Melinda EmersonThis week on SmallBizChat Podcast:All storms are temporary. The many storms that can batter and bruise your business. Using the storm like a tool.Learning and growing through the hard times. Keeping things in perspective and factual (not emotional). Trusting in the Lord when Plans A and B fail. Innovation in the storms of life and business. Resources Mentioned:Brand in Demand Live: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/brandindemand SmallBizLady University: https://smallbizladyuniversity.com/

Are you tired of working a 9 to 5 and wants to focus in creating your DREAM business and becoming your OWN BOSS? Then get ready with us as in today's episode, we will be sharing you a MASTERMIND in how you can become your own boss this 2023!Today, we are joined by Melinda F. Emerson - known as the SmallBizLady. Melinda is an entrepreneur, professional speaker, small business coach and the author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months and host of SmallBizChat podcast. SmallBizLady, is America's #1 Small Business Expert. In 2010, Forbes magazine named her as one of the Top 20 Women for Entrepreneurs to Follow on Twitter. She has been a thriving entrepreneur for nearly 20 years and is an internationally known keynote speaker and expert on small business development and social media marketing!So if you're struggling how to dive into the business industry then make sure to listen up until the very end as we talked about:- Melinda's Journey in Entrepreneurship- Things You Should Know Before Diving into the Business Industry- Melinda's Advice to her younger self and What she would do differently- How to Overcome Doubt from Yourself and Others- Strategies to Succeed with your Business- How do you distinguish what it is that you should do versus what it is that you shouldn't do?- The Podcasting Industry (SmallBizChat)- What does the Future look like for SmallBizLady?Don't wait, take control of your future and become a successful business owner today!If you're interested in Melinda's services, feel free to reach out to her!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallbizlady/Her Services: https://shor.by/SmallBizLadyDo you want to be a successful entrepreneur like our guest? Do you want to become our next guest?Message Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tolu.owoyemi/Visit Our Website: https://www.mastermindyouragency.com/Stay tuned for our next episode!

In this episode, Melinda Emerson welcomes guest Laurel Delaney to discuss exporting, particularly to China. They explore the use of Alibaba for business, federal resources for exporting, and building brand awareness in China. The episode concludes with a World Entrepreneur Day discussion and upcoming SmallBizChat on Twitter.

Merry Christmas! I am thinking of you all today and wishing you peace through this holiday season as you embrace all that it represents. Christmas is a time to celebrate, rest, reflect, extend gratitude, and hold your family close. For many of us, our families are the motivation for our professional dedication, so this season, I encourage you to take some time to pause and embrace every moment with your family - whatever that means to you. On today's special episode of SmallBizChat, I share my appreciation for all that Christmas represents and brings. I express what this holiday means to me as a Christian and the importance of thanking God and remembering the reason for the season. I also highlight what Christmas looks like in my family, and what I wish for you as you reflect on your professional and personal highlights of 2019 and move into the new year. “Struggles make you stronger. You can't have a testimony without a test.” - Melinda Emerson This week on SmallBizChat Podcast: Action Point: Fix Your Business! Are you ready to run your business with intention? Ready to create a business that allows you to live your dream life and take those dream vacations you deserve? Then you need a copy of my latest book: Fix Your Business: A 90-Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Remove Chaos From Your Business. Fix Your Business gives you concrete advice on the problem areas many small business owners face as well as the step-by-step process to find solutions so you can live the life of your dreams. It's time to take back control of your business and change how your business is run. Order your copy of Fix Your Business and design your business - and life - with intention. Let's End Small Business Failure - Together! Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of the Small Biz Chat Podcast - the show on a mission to improve small business success. If you enjoyed this episode, head over to Apple Podcasts, subscribe to the show, and leave us a rating and review. Help us spread the word and end small business failure by sharing your favorite episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media. Visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube for more great content, tips, and strategies to improve your small business. Small Biz Chat Podcast is produced by Auxbus. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the first episode of the SmallBizChat Podcast - the show that's on a mission to help you improve your small business and avoid small business failure. I'm your host, Melinda Emerson “SmallBizLady,” America's #1 Small Business Expert. I'm the CEO of the blog Succeed As Your Own Boss, where I've published more than 5,000 articles about how to start and grow a business. I'm also CEO of Quintessence Group and the author of multiple bestselling business books including Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, How To Become a Social Media Ninja, and my latest book: Fix Your Business. I've been a thriving entrepreneur for over two decades by developing marketing strategies and influencer marketing programs for Fortune 500 brands who target small business owners such as VISA, Chase, FedEx, American Express, and Staples. On today's episode, I share who I am, how I became known as the SmallBizLady, and the challenges I've faced throughout my entrepreneurial journey. I share how being on bedrest while pregnant with my son forced me to slow down and allowed me to discover the mistakes I've made as an entrepreneur. I share how I found inspiration and motivation from these mistakes and how it led me to help other entrepreneurs. I also share how the SmallBizChat Twitter talk show got started and what you can expect from each episode of the SmallBizChat podcast. “Figure out what your calling is. Then, be ready to do the work.” - Melinda Emerson This week on the SmallBizChat Podcas:t Your SmallBizChat Action Point for the Week: Figure out your calling and be ready to do the work. If you want fame, well fame costs. You will pay, but the reward is worth it. Enter for Your Chance to WIN! Do you love winning amazing prices? In celebration of launching the SmallBizChat Podcast, for the next 30 days, I'm giving away some amazing prizes! Enter for your chance to win! To enter: Each week, one lucky winner will win one of the following prizes: What are you waiting for? Enter for your chance to win today! Fix Your Business in 90 Days Does your small business need a tune-up? Are you ready to reinvent your business, increase your profits, and finally live the lifestyle you want? Enroll for the Fix Your Business Masterclass to learn how you can turn your business around and get back on the path to true freedom and success. The Fix Your Business Masterclass is a 12-week course that includes 12 video lessons and over 20 hours of actionable content. You'll learn everything from how to set your initial goals and how to build the systems you need to delegate and scale to how to brand your business online and offline and how to grow to seven figures and beyond. So if you're ready to unlock the true power and freedom of entrepreneurship - enroll today for the Fix Your Business Masterclass and start your journey to true business success. Let's End Small Business Failure - Together! Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of the Small Biz Chat Podcast - the show on a mission to improve small business success. If you enjoyed this episode, head over to Apple Podcasts, subscribe to the show, and leave us a rating and review. Help us spread the word and end small business failure by sharing your favorite episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media. Visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube for more great content, tips, and strategies to improve your small business. Small Biz Chat Podcast is produced by Auxbus Media. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the SmallBizChat Podcast!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Melinda Emerson discusses the challenges and goals in small business, emphasizing on personal growth and work-life balance. She shares insights from guests about their visions and creates an interactive environment for listener engagement. The episode concludes with a discussion on digital expansion.

Melinda F. Emerson, known as SmallBizLady, is America's #1 Small Business Expert. She is an internationally known keynote speaker and an expert on small business start up, business development, and social media marketing. In addition to being a former columnist for The New York Times, she is frequently quoted by other media organizations including The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Fortune, MSNBC and Fox News.    Emerson's small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. She is the host of #Smallbizchat, the longest running live chat on Twitter for small business owners. She publishes a resource blog www.succeedasyourownboss.com.    Emerson is the bestselling author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months and the ebook How To Become a Social Media Ninja. She is the founder and president of the Quintessence Group, an award-winning marketing consulting firm based in Philadelphia, PA. Notable Clients Include: FedEx, ADP, Pitney Bowes, American Express, Dell, Staples, Sam's Club, Chase Bank, Facebook, IKEA, Verizon, Wells Fargo, and Xerox.   Website: www.succeedasyourownboss.com Facebook facebook.com/smallbizlady LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/melindaemerson Twitter @SmallBizLady Google+ google.com/+MelindaEmerson   Fix Your Business: 90-Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Remove Chaos From Your Business can be pre-ordered from www.succeedasyourownboss.com and on www.amazon.com

Melinda  F.  Emerson,  SmallBizLady,  is  Americas  #1  Small  Business  Expert.  She  has been  a  thriving  entrepreneur  for  nearly  20  years  and  is  an  internationally  known  keynote speaker  and  expert  on  small  business  development  and  social  media  marketing.  She publishes  a  resource  blog www.succeedasyourownboss.com   Her  small  business advice  is  widely  read  reaching  more  than  3  million  entrepreneurs  each  week  online.  A pioneer  in  social  media  marketing,  she  is  the  creator  and  host  of  #Smallbizchat,  the longest  running  live  chat  on  Twitter  for  small  business  owners.  Forbes  magazine  named her  the  #1  woman  for  entrepreneurs  to  follow  on  Twitter.   Podcast Highlights   Who is Melinda Emerson? Melinda is a dedicated single mom, dragonslayer, and entrepreneur. Early on Melinda looked around and saw there wasn’t a lot resources available for small business owners so she decided to take charge of the situation. After creating one of the fastest growing small businesses in America, Melinda realized she had made a mistake and built a business that couldn’t run without her. After being put on bed rest for six months when she became pregnant, Melinda had to make some drastic changes to her business and she learned a lot of lessons along the way.   Starting A Small Business You have to plan for success, success will not just happen to you. Melinda has a six step system for planning your small business and the first step is figuring out what you really want. Not liking your current job is not enough, you need to have a plan or you may just destroy your entire life. You have to think about the money component, most businesses don’t make a profit until 18 to 24 months in. Things come up and you need money to take care of them. You need to understand how much the business is going to cost and where the money is going to come from. The great thing about being in America is you can reinvent yourself. If you want to start a business, work part time in the industry you want to start a business in and get some experience first. Personal Growth You have to grow yourself to grow your small business. You have to learn the skills necessary to create a successful business. Just because you are entrepreneur, that doesn’t mean you are a good manager. You have to figure out what is your most high value business activity. You should not be spending your time doing $15 and $20 per hour work. As an entrepreneur, you need to figure out what you don’t know and go fill the gaps in your knowledge. People know what is wrong with their businesses, they just aren’t willing to confront and deal with the problems. If you’re having trouble with people, try looking at yourself first. Take one day a week to work on what you want your business to be. Hiring If you want a real business, you need to hire people and have some help. In the beginning you have to hire the people you know, but you need to create a process to hire the right people and also be willing to fire someone. Reference: Fix Your Business, Melinda Emerson Melinda’s Takeaway   Buy Become Your Own Boss In 12 Months, then find an existing entrepreneur and go have lunch with them, then ask what the three biggest mistakes they made in their business are.   Links: succeedasyourownboss.com T

Melinda F. Emerson, known as SmallBizLady, is America’s #1 Small Business Expert. She is an internationally known keynote speaker and an expert on small business start up, business development, and social media marketing. In addition to being a former columnist for The New York Times, she is frequently quoted by other media organizations including The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Fortune, MSNBC and Fox News. Emersons small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. She is the host of #Smallbizchat, the longest running live chat on Twitter for small business owners. She publishes a resource blog www.succeedasyourownboss.com. Emerson is the bestselling author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months and the ebook How To Become a Social Media Ninja. She is the founder and president of the Quintessence Group, an award-winning marketing consulting firm based in Philadelphia, PA. Notable Clients Include: FedEx, ADP, Pitney Bowes, American Express, Dell, Staples, Sams Club, Chase Bank, Facebook, IKEA, Verizon, Wells Fargo, and Xerox. ----- Shortly after graduating from Virginia Tech, Melinda Emerson landed at her dream job. A journalism student, she was hired as a producer at the age of 23. Soon, after going from the frying pan to the skillet, she realized that she wanted more than that dream, a better career. She saw Oprah Winfrey as a model, another journalist who went on to start successful businesses. In this episode, Melinda Emerson talks about how she set out on her own business adventure with a laptop, fax machine, and a dream. She tapped her skills as an investigative journalist to research her strategy, build networks, and won an opportunity from a business incubator. Within a couple of years, her firm became the largest female-owned production company in Philadelphia. Awards followed, along with lucrative contracts. She compiled every “expensive mistake” she made along the way and these helpful notes became the basis for her first major book. Her goal is to boost small business entrepreneurs everywhere so they experience success and learn the lessons she shares with them. We need to build our personal leadership in order to bring success to our business activities. Melinda Emerson reminds listeners that they never lose in business: They either win or they learn of mistakes that need to be corrected. This is a very inspiring interview! Ways to contact Melinda: Website: succeedasyourownboss.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/smallbizlady LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/melindaemerson Twitter: @SmallBizLady YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/melindaemerson

Our special encore guest today is Melinda Emerson. Melinda is the founder and president of the Quintessence Group, an award-winning marketing consulting firm with notable clients including FedEx, Verizon, Xerox, and American Express. She is also the host of #Smallbizchat, the longest running live chat on Twitter for small business owners. Melinda’s small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online and she was named the #1 woman for entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter by Forbes Magazine. And the author of the new book, “Fix Your Business”. What you’ll learn about in this episode: Why Melinda wrote her book “Fix Your Business” What the 12 “P”s are for running a successful business The importance of focusing on your most high value activities Why having a 90-day turnaround plan for your business is critical to your success What the three “people issues” are in your business The importance of having a mobile ready website Why having a business that works well for you is one way to define success The importance of having a balance of doers and thinkers on your team How to overcome fear in your business by creating a plan Why you never lose in business Ways to contact Melinda: Twitter: @SmallBizLady Facebook: Small Biz Lady Instagram: Small Biz Lady LinkedIn: Melinda Emerson Website: www.fixyourbusiness.com Book: “Fix Your Business: A 90-Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Remove Chaos From Your Business”  

More folks than ever before are trading in their corporate gig for entrepreneurship. Do you want to be your own boss? Do you have start-up fever? But, are you unsure where to begin to smoothly move from paycheck to your own payroll? Join host Hanna Hasl-Kelchner as she welcomes Melinda Emerson, also known as the Small Biz Lady and America's #1 Small Business Expert, who provides a plan to help your move forward. WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER ABOUT HOW TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS: The 3 things anyone wanting to be your own boss must do well. The 6-step system to transition from employee to entrepreneur. Why a good transition process to be your own boss take 12 months. How to accelerate the transition process if you don't have 12 months. How your business plan dovetails with your life plan. And much MORE. GUEST: Melinda Emerson, is the founder and president of the http://succeedasyourownboss.com/about-old/about-quintessence/ (Quintessence Group), an award-winning marketing consulting firm based in Philadelphia, PA. Her clients include household names like American Express, Sam's Club, Facebook, FedEx and a whole lot more. As an internationally known keynote speaker and an expert on small business start-ups, business development, and social media marketing, Melinda is also widely known as the Small Biz Lady. Her small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. In addition to being a former social media columnist for the New York Times, she is frequently quoted by other media organizations including The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, MSNBC, CNBC and Fox News. Melinda is the host of the #Smallbizchat, the longest running live chat on Twitter for small business owners. Forbes magazine named her the #1 woman for entrepreneurs to follow on http://twitter.com/SmallBizlady (Twitter). She publishes a small business resource blog which is syndicated by the Huffington Post. She is also the author of http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1440584354/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1440584354&linkCode=as2&tag=businconfinow-20&linkId=YZLRVU4JZDLACMNF">Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months: A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business that Works (Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months), now in its 2nd Edition, plus the ebook How To Become a Social Media Ninja. RELATED RESOURCES:Check out Melinda's book http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1440584354/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1440584354&linkCode=as2&tag=businconfinow-20&linkId=YZLRVU4JZDLACMNF">Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months: A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business that Works (Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months) and corresponding http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0979983916/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0979983916&linkCode=as2&tag=businconfinow-20&linkId=6EG33633J25GHAEX">Are You Ready to Become Your Own Boss? (Are You Ready to Become Your Own Boss Workbook) as well as her website http://succeedasyourownboss.com (Succeed As Your Own Boss).

“The Small Biz Lady” Melinda Emerson joins us to talk to us about how she built a national reputation using social media, her book Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, and her role in the new CNBC show “Crowd Rules,” debuting on April 30. Melinda is one of America’s leading small business experts. She is a seasoned entrepreneur, professional speaker, and social media strategist whose mission is to end small business failure. Her blog Succeed As Your Own Boss is syndicated by the Huffington Post. She also hosts #Smallbizchat, a weekly live talk show on Twitter. She also writes a regular column on social media for the New York Times You’re The Boss Blog. Melinda is the author of the bestselling book Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months; A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business That Works, a workbook and curriculum Are You Ready To Become Your Own Boss? and an audio CD 10 Things You Must Never Forget in Business.  Melinda has been featured on MSNBC, Fox News, NBC Nightly News and in The Washington Post, Forbes, Fortune, The Wall Street Journal, Black Enterprise and Essence Magazines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melinda F. Emerson, SmallBizLady, is one of America’s leading small business experts. Sheis an author, speaker and small business coach whose areas of expertise include small business start-up, business development and social media marketing.As CEO of MFE Consulting LLC, Melinda develops audio, video and written contentto fulfill her mission to End Small Business Failure. She publishes a resource blog, www.succeedasyourownboss.com and hosts a weekly talk show on Twitter called #Smallbizchat for small business owners. As a brand, she reaches 1.5 million entrepreneurs a week on the internet. Forbes Magazine named Melinda Emerson one of the #1 Woman for Entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter. Melinda has been featured on MSNBC, Fox News, NBC Nightly News and in the New York Times,USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and Black Enterprise. She is the bestselling author of “Become Your Own Boss in 12 months; A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business That Works,”and a proud graduate of Virginia Tech.

  Our guest this week is Melinda F. Emerson, SmallBizLady. Melinda is America's #1 small business expert. She is an author, speaker and small business coach whose areas of expertise include small business start-up, business development and social media marketing. As CEO of Quintessence Multimedia, Melinda develops audio, video and written content to help her Fortune 500 clients engage small business customers.  She publishes a resource blog, www.succeedasyourownboss.com and hosts a weekly talk show on Twitter called #SmallBizChat for today's entrepreneurs.  She reaches 1.5 million small business owners each week on the internet. Forbes Magazine named Melinda Emerson #1 Woman for Entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter. Melinda has been featured on MSNBC, Fox News, NBC Nightly News and in The Washington Post, New York Times,Fortune, Essence and Black Enterprise.She is also the author of the bestselling book “Become Your Own Boss in 12 months; A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business That Works.”. Melinda is a graduate of Virginia Tech. http://succeedasyourownboss.com/ http://twitter.com/smallbizladyhttp://www.linkedin.com/in/melindaemerson

  One of the greatest challenges for all businesses is how to attract and keep customers. Relationships are highly valued in almost every business. Perhaps no other challenge impacts the small business any more than this one. Tai Goodwin - Practical Profitable Social Media Tai Goodwin is someone who has been observed over the last several months helping bring useful and necessary information to the small business owner and consultant regarding the use of social media. While many people claim to be bringing value Tai actually has that reputation.

This week’s podcast episode is entitled “The Adventures of Inspiration: SmallBizLady’s 11 Bible Verses Small Business Owners Need in 2011”.One of my favorite blogs is that of Melinda Emerson (Twitter’s SmallBizLady and host of #SmallBizChat, Wednesdays at 8PM ET on Twitter).  It’s located at succeedasyourownboss.com, and each day of the week it provides an informative blog post for small business owners and solo-entrepreneurs with the goal of ending small business failures.Last week, Melinda shared her “11 Bible Verses Small Business Owners Need in 2011” (CLICK HERE for the printable copy) and today I’m going to share them with you, because they were very inspirational to me, and spoke to me at a time when I needed inspiration and something more to keep me going.The post starts with Melinda sharing her theme for the year, which is “Either I win or I learn, but with God’s help I never lose”.  Very inspiring sentiment, which was then followed by the following 11 Bible verses of encouragement for those of us at various stages of our entrepreneurial journey:1. No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9 I remember this verse from one of my favorite songs “For the Good of Them” by Rev. Milton Brunson and the Thompson Community Singers of Chicago.  I know that I can state personally that there have been positive things to happen in my life, as close as last week, that pretty much go above and beyond what I could have imagined.  I’m continually amazed at the Blessings I’ve had in my life, and I do appreciate God’s favor and pray that it continues, not just for me, but for my family and loved ones, and all those seeking solace from the negatives in life, than can really wear you down.2. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3 Melinda says “If everything in your business is done to glorify God, he will Bless your work”.  I think this is something that we as small business owners forget, for many of us, exist in the “worldly sphere”, and I’d define that as anyone not doing business directly within the genre of selling religious works and related artifacts.  One of the best ways that I find I can accomplish the requirements of this verse is to always make sure that I keep myself, and my integrity (which is based in my faith) at the forefront of all of my business and personal dealings.  Since I’ve been working in the field of Technology and Social Media, I’ve seen ample opportunity to run scams on people and possibly make tons of money, with very little effort.  Though this could definitely bring me some money in the short-run, I have to look at the long-term benefits and what’s truly important to me and what I’m trying to build as an entrepreneur.  I can tell you that this journey has not been easy.  Especially when I see people that are taken the “crooked route” and profiting hand over fist.  I try not envy such people, and I’ve continually believed that being square-dealing and honest is going to one day pay off for me.  It’s been a long road, but I’m definitely glad to say that I’ve benefited by staying honest, and I probably sleep better at night because of it too.3. The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.  Proverbs 21:5 Per Melinda’s advice “A good idea is still a good idea three weeks from now. There are no “get rich quick” schemes. Do not be in a hurry for anything. Learn all you can. Be focused and diligent and your business will succeed”.  Definitely one of the hardest lessons for me to learn, because so much about our society now encourages us to seek instant gratification, especially in the technology and social media realm, where it feels like everything is changing so rapidly that you feel that a week missed could be a missed lifetime opportunity.  Luckily, that’s not true, and I’m surely finding as I continue on with this entrepreneurial journey that “slow and steady” does in fact win the race!4. I will find the Lord when I seek him with all my heart and with all my soul.  Deuteronomy 4:29 SmallBizLady says: “The best thing you can do for your business is pray daily with an open heart. God speaks to us through vision and dreams. Be open to what God wants you to learn”.  You can’t argue with that.  5. The Blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22 This says to me that when God Blesses, it comes with abundance and not sorry and strife.6. Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? I fix my eyes on God and soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He’s my God. Psalm 42:5 Here Melinda shares a story about her father and how he used to say “we wouldn’t know God’s day if it weren’t for bad days, so thank God for the bad days too”.  This is something I had to learn from experience.  Everything needs a point of reference.  You can’t truly appreciate the GOOD, until you’ve experienced that bad.  Tough as it may be to get through them, I believe the bad times make us better people in the long run.7. I fear not, for God is with me; I am not dismayed; for He is my God. He will strengthen me, yes, He will help me, He will uphold me with His righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10 This is a good verse for those feeling doubtful about their entrepreneurial aspirations, especially in the early stages.  I think this is a good verse to refer to during those times of self-doubt.8. By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him who sent me. John 5:30 As Melinda says “It’s never about you. It’s about the team around you and your customers”.  I can admit, this is a tough lesson for a narcissist to learn, but it’s possible. LOL.9. I seriously consider what I am doing before taking on new projects. I expand prudently and I do not court neglect of present duties by assuming too many new ones. Proverbs 31:16 Once again, Melinda gives sound advice: “Be a project finisher. Do not be one of these business owners that run from thing to thing with more than one brand message. Make it clear what business you are in by focusing on one niche customer”.  I’ve definitely heard this advice several times since I started on my first business venture (what is now) many years ago.  And I admit, at the start, I definitely had too many irons on the fire, and they weren’t even "complimentary fires" that worked together.  I was trying to do too many things, and was being pulled in too many different directions.  Even now, some people feel that I’m managing too many brands, but for me, having found the common thread within them, as well as learning ways to reduce a duplication of effort across the brands I’m seeking to manage, I feel that I’ve got a great handle on what business I’m in, and who my customers are.  Of course, I could always fine-tune my niche market, but I think that’s just a natural process of maturation that any good business does as it grows.10. Pride lands me flat on my face, but humility prepares me for honor. Proverbs 29:23 Melinda says “Do not let your pride keep you from learning a lesson”. I’m trying!  Humility is not my strong suit, in fact, though I don’t think I’m too prideful, I can admit that humility is a notion that often passes me.  But I think that’s a result of what I’ve gone through and triumphed over to get to where I am.  After experiencing so many people telling you that you’re wrong, or that you’re going to fail, or that you can’t do something, once you are able to do it, or triumph over whatever hurdles that were set before you, it’s REAL HARD not to rub others face in it, and by “rub their face in it”, I don’t mean, purposefully taunting the naysayers, but continuing on, doing your thing, and showing them that what they say has no effect on you.  It’s that “you can’t tell me nothing” mentality that I think a lot of successful people where I’m from have.  I suspect it’s a “Chicago Thing”. LOL.  So, if you don’t get it.  I understand! 11. I live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 Of all the Bible verses that Melinda shared, I think this one struck a chord with me the most.  It’s been a LONG TIME since I’ve lived by sight.  If I let what I see, or can foresee in the near future dictate what I believe were possible in my life, I’d be nothing! If I didn’t believe, despite all evidence to the contrary that my life was Divinely Orchestrated, and things weren’t happened to me, but for me, and that ultimately, despite all the bad, that things would work out, I wouldn’t be where I am today.  I can’t tell you how dead-on this verse was for me.  But I will share with you one of my favorite quotes on faith from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  He said “Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase”.  People used to say this when I was growing up, and I thought it was the funniest thing, but it was only as an adult, that I truly learned to appreciate it, and what having faith really means.I should note that this post from SmallBizLady Melinda Emerson was inspired in part by Joyce Meyer’s book, The Secret Power of Speaking God’s Word.  And once again, here's a PRINTABLE PDF COPY of Melinda's post, and more information about her:  Melinda F. Emerson, known to many as SmallBizLady is one of America’s leading small business experts. As a seasoned entrepreneur, professional speaker, and small business coach, she develops audio, video and written content to fulfill her mission to end small business failure.  As CEO of MFE Consulting LLC, Melinda educates entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 companies on subjects including small business start-up, business development and social media marketing. Forbes Magazine recently named her one of the Top 20 Women for Entrepreneurs to Follow on Twitter. She hosts #SmallBizChat Wednesdays on Twitter 8-9pm ET for emerging entrepreneurs, and publishes a resource blog at: www.succeedasyourownboss.com.  Melinda is also the author of the national bestseller Become Your Own Boss in 12 months: A Month-by-Month Guide to a Business That Works. (Adams Media 2010)What about you? Is there a Bible verse that inspires you in your business? Please share.Please feel free to leave comments below or give me your feedback directly, either by email “podcasts @ exclusivemultiplicity.com”, or by finding me on Facebook, Twitter (@KindraCotton), or LinkedIn.  You can also contact me via Skype at my name Kindra.Cotton, and you can now call me on my Google Voice line at: (201) 870-0234.  If you leave a message on my Google Voicemail line, please be sure to mention which podcast you listened to.  Click media player below to listen to this podcast.   If the player above isn't displaying, or working properly, you can also download the podcast from iTunes for free (it may take a few days for it to appear at this link, but you can subscribe directly to the podcast feed via iTunes if you want to always get new podcast episodes when they're first uploaded)! Come back next week, and have a Blessed Day!Kindra

Melinda Emerson visits Successful Saturday to share her expertise on what it takes to Become Your own Boss In 12 Months. She is the author of the 2010 Small Business Book Award, is a Twitter expert "SmallBizChat" and is an authority on taking people with no entrepreneurial experience to help them lead sustainable businesses. Join us tonight for a wonderful discussion on Becoming Your Own Boss, call with questions and or listen live at (646) 595-4797 or join us on the web chat room.