In this episode, Melinda Emerson and Renée Johnson discuss the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and the Reimagined Main Street initiative. They delve into the Backing Black Business Grant program and challenges faced by Asian American businesses. The conversation takes a turn towards Access to Capital, advocating for improved lending models, and issues with CDFI's loan policies. Renée shares business advice for Black women entrepreneurs and her favorite business resources. The episode concludes with an introduction to Small BizLady University.

(0:00) Introduction and Melinda Emerson's welcome

(2:32) Discussion on Reimagined Main Street initiative and impact of COVID-19 on small businesses

(5:12) Introduction to the Backing Black Business Grant program and Asian American small businesses

(7:36) Conversation on Access to Capital for small businesses and advocacy for changing lending models

(10:15) Importance of data collection in lending and issues with CDFI's loan policies

(13:15) Focus on Black women entrepreneurs and business advice by Renée Johnson

(15:16) Renee Johnson's favorite podcast, business app and book

(16:25) Introduction to Small BizLady University and Melinda Emerson's closing thoughts

(17:04) Podcast outro and where to find more resources