AUTHOR • ENTREPRENEUR • VETERAN • CONCERNED CITIZEN
Built by Melvin: Stories, Business & Bold Ideas
Welcome to the digital home of Melvin Coates — where powerful stories meet real-world business and fearless thinking. From bestselling books to bold insights, explore what drives the movement.
Bold Moves Start Here
From books to big ideas — Melvin is redefining what it means to lead with purpose and voice.
Who We Are
Empowering Voices, Elevating Impact
Melvin doesn’t just speak — he inspires action. With decades of experience in storytelling, leadership, and authorship, we help individuals and organizations grow through clarity, strategy, and purpose-driven transformation.
- Proven frameworks for brand growth
- Purpose-led storytelling for real change
- Decades of leadership
- Transformative coaching experiences
- Trusted by professionals worldwide
- Clarity that drives results
FEATURED BOOKS
Words That Move, Stories That Matter
Explore a collection of bold, thought-provoking books by Melvin Coates. Whether you're searching for motivation, insight, or transformation — there's a story here that speaks directly to you.
EXCELLENT Based on 139 reviews Posted on Amazon Ruth F. StevensVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Nice intro to the Middle East for kids This is a nice way to introduce young children to the sights, history and culture of the Middle East. It also encourages diversity and acceptance of mores and beliefs that may differ from our own. Many of the illustrations show one-dimensional cartoonish drawings of Jessica and her two dads, superimposed on photos of actual tourist sites like the Pyramids. I found these a bit cheesy, but that was my only issue with the book.Posted on Amazon DJVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Recommended Jessica’s Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East is a delightful story of family, love, and cultural exploration. With engaging storytelling and meaningful lessons, it’s perfect for young readers and families alike.Posted on Amazon Timothy BaldwinVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | neat story, horrid illustrations If the illustrations within the story matched the illustrations on the cover, I think this would be top notch. But the illustrations, in some sections, read like they were made from clip art and poorly placed on scenes from the Middle East. Highly recommend the author have the illustrations redone.Posted on Amazon E.E.Verified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Teaches kids important values. This book would help kids understand that it is important to respect cultures of places they visit. Books like this shows kids the beauty of the different countries around the world.Posted on Amazon L BVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Fun Story About Travel! "Jessica's Two Dads: Travel to the Middle East" by Melvin Coates is a beautifully illustrated children's book that follows Jessica and her dads on an amazing adventure around the world. Exploring ancient sites and diverse cultures, the story offers readers valuable insights into global issues. My niece loved this book!Posted on Amazon Sphinx_305Verified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Alla scoperta del rispetto e del mondo Ho preso questo libro per mia nipote e devo dire che è stato un grande successo. La storia segue Jessica e i suoi due papà mentre esplorano il Medio Oriente, ed è davvero dolce e piena di amore. Mia nipote è rimasta affascinata dalle bellissime illustrazioni e ha amato l'idea di viaggiare e scoprire nuove culture insieme alla sua famiglia. Mi è piaciuto molto come il libro insegna l'importanza di rispettare e apprezzare la diversità culturale, il tutto in un modo accessibile e coinvolgente per i bambini. È diventato subito uno dei suoi preferiti, e lo rilegge spesso. Consiglio vivamente questo libro a chiunque cerchi una bella storia di famiglia con un messaggio positivo.Posted on Amazon Polly DJVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Great book! This was a great way to introduce a child to the idea of traveling to new countries. It explored diversity of religion and culture. I liked how a lot of the illustrations were super imposed on real pictures from Egypt, Kuwait and Iraq.Posted on Amazon Alice M.Verified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Book to help children learn about other places I liked that the protagonist travels with her two parents and visits other cultures. This is the kind of book that helps to have a more open mind. But in this case, I didn't like the images in which the countries appear. Putting the characters inside photographs is forced. It would have been better to use illustrations, as in the rest of the book.Posted on Amazon karl harrisVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | sweet story! A very sweet story if two dads exploring the world and keeping in touch with their daughter. A great book for children with traveling parents.Posted on Amazon Helen WilliamsVerified Jessicas's Two Dads: Travels to the Middle East (Jessica's Two Dads) | Very nice Cute book about love and family. I appreciate the openness of a real family sharing memories together. Cute pictures and story
LATEST FROM THE BLOG
Inspiration, Influence & Independent Success: Read the Latest Insights
Explore actionable advice, powerful stories, and behind-the-scenes lessons from Melvin Coates. Whether you’re chasing purpose, building influence, or launching your first book — every blog post delivers value with heart.

“Decoding the Economic and Trade Juggernaut: A Deep Dive into Trump’s 2025 Administration Policies”
The 47th U.S. President, Donald J. Trump, sworn in on January 20, 2025, alongside Vice President J.D. Vance, has brought about considerable changes in trade and economic policies, which will be reviewed in the given blog. Striving for robust economic growth, Trump’s aggressive trade policies and diverse cabinet contribute to America’s future vision. The U.S. economy presents a mixed picture in mid-2025, with a resilient GDP growth rate of 2.4% in Q2, a stable unemployment rate at 4.1%, but the inflation rate hovering around 2.7%–2.9% presents a potential issue. Trade policy, notably the aggressive tariffs on China, EU, Canada, and Mexico, have transformed international commerce. However, the tariff policy has elevated the average household costs by an estimated $1,683 in 2026, shedding light on the socio-economic implications. Globally, the OECD voiced concerns about slowing growth and rising inflation. The administration is also facing different international reactions, such as a European boycott movement against U.S. goods. While the socio-political and economic impact of these policies is significant, future consequences remain to be seen.

“Analyzing the Mid-Year Economic Performance Under U.S. Administration’s 47th Presidency”
This article reviews the economic and trade policies under the 47th U.S. administration led by President Donald J. Trump in his second non-consecutive term, and Vice President J.D. Vance midway through 2025. Despite an initial contraction, the U.S. GDP recovered by 2.4% in Q2, amid consistent unemployment rates of 4.1%, and balanced inflation rates between 2.7%-2.9%. However, OECD’s end-of-year prediction signalizes a slight economic slowdown with an anticipated increase in inflation to 3.9%.
The Trump administration’s aggressive tariff regime, particularly with countries like China, EU, Canada, and Mexico, has roused global and domestic tensions. These tariffs are under scrutiny by the Court of International Trade for overreaching presidential authority.
OECD’s warning of a global slowdown and the ongoing trade negotiations with several countries contribute to a tense international stage. These, coupled with the backlash received due to U.S. border policies affecting foreign relations, have created a complex scenario for the current administration. The economy, thus, exists in a fluctuating state, where moderation in growth is expected by the end of 2025. The outcomes of these ongoing negotiations and policy decisions will significantly impact both national and international economies.

“Decoding the Future: U.S Trade and Economic Policies under President Trump’s Administration”
Under President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, the U.S. has seen significant changes in trade and economic policies with a primary focus on domestic economic growth. Despite a slight contraction in Q1, the U.S. has experienced a GDP growth rate of about 2.4% in Q2 2025. The administration has implemented aggressive tariff policies, with rates ranging from 15-50% on nations including China, the EU, Canada, and Mexico, resulting in tariff revenues of nearly $200 billion. However, these aggressive policies have triggered economic and diplomatic consequences. Domestically, households and businesses are dealing with increased costs due to the rising consumer price index. Globally, U.S’s actions have prompted international responses, including a European boycott movement. Experts recommend staying updated and understanding these current policies for informed decision making.

“Trump and Vance’s 2025 Economic Vision: The Impact of Tariffs, Trade Policies, and Economic Measures on U.S. and Global Economy”
The 2025 Trump administration, featuring Vice-President J.D. Vance, has implemented aggressive trade and economic policies, including tariffs and redesigned trade agreements. The U.S. GDP in mid-2025 has grown by around 2.4%, with unemployment at 4.1%, and core CPI inflation between 2.7% and 2.9%. However, the OECD warns of a moderating growth rate and heightened inflation. Under Trump, tariffs have surged between 15% and 50% against numerous nations, and the cost to average households is expected to rise significantly. Meanwhile, global forecasts for economic growth have declined, and Europe has initiated a boycott of U.S. goods. Despite potential economic safeguards, concerns persist about escalating household costs and global economic slowdown.