Melinda F. Emerson, “SmallBizLady” is America’s #1 Small Business Expert. She is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, instructional designer and online marketing expert. As CEO of SmallBizLadyUniversity.com, she develops education and training materials for small business owners and partners with Fortune 500 brands that serve small businesses. A former New York Times Columnist, and award-winning blogger, Melinda has written over 5000 articles on small business tactics and success. Her advice is widely read, reaching more than 1 million entrepreneurs weekly online. She hosts, The Smallbizchat Podcast and is the bestselling author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months.