The Parenting Business

Stuart Malcolmson with Ben Lovejoy
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If you're a parent and you're in business, whether you own it or manage it, then this podcast is for you. Stuart and Ben are both multiple business owners trying to juggle work and family life. We discuss how things are going, the ups and downs of running businesses and how that affects weekly family life. We also talk about other things happening in the world, give our views on it and chat to other parents in business, to discover their stories, secrets, hints and tips for both better business and family life.

  1. 5d ago

    Hire Slow, Fire Fast! - The Staffing Rule Which Could Save a Small Business!

    Summary In this episode, Stuart and Ben delve into the complexities of hiring staff, sharing insights on recruitment strategies, red flags, and the impact of recent legal changes. They explore practical tips for hiring, trial periods, and managing staff issues, offering valuable advice for business owners navigating the hiring minefield. 00:00 — Weekly catch-up and why routine matters in busy periods01:38 — Staff absences, holidays, and why normality helps productivity03:58 — Factory move chaos and the upside of tidying the workplace05:27 — How supplier holidays still affect delivery timelines07:10 — Introducing the episode topic: hiring staff08:50 — Stuart’s accidental Indeed advert and unexpected applications10:54 — Trial shifts as part of the interview process11:52 — Hiring for social media, marketing, and sales support12:49 — The red flags that appeared during a trial session14:51 — Why someone complaining before being hired is a warning sign15:19 — Younger, less experienced hire or older, more experienced candidate16:26 — Ben’s focus on experience, tools, and attitude over schemes18:25 — Why overqualified candidates may not stay long19:35 — How Ben’s approach to hiring has changed over the last year21:14 — Why a bad hire can still be kept too long if performance dips later22:23 — Bottlenecks, backup plans, and keeping production flowing23:03 — Policies, warnings, and why follow-through matters24:22 — Stuart’s long-serving employee from a youth unemployment scheme25:15 — Younger versus older workers and different patterns of letdown 28:33 — Employment law changes and shorter dismissal timelines31:43 — Why paperwork and absence procedures matter more than ever36:42 — Ben’s biggest mistake: letting problems fester too long39:15 — Stuart’s biggest mistake: rushing to hire and employing a mate43:28 — Top tips for hiring staff without rushing the process44:56 — Ben on paid trials, CVs, and spotting genuine interest47:02 — Red flags in job history and why repeated job changes matter48:17 — Stuart’s takeaway: hire slow, fire fast49:37 — Dad joke break and sign-off hiring staff, recruitment, trial periods, staff management, employment law, business tips, hiring mistakes, staff red flags, employment regulations, business growth

    Hire Slow, Fire Fast! - The Staffing Rule Which Could Save a Small Business!

  2. Sep 3

    We're Back And Lets Talk Holidays!

    We’re back for season two, and it feels like we’ve got a fresh start! Stuart and Ben reflect on their summer breaks while promising a more focused and engaging podcast this time around. Stuart and Ben have had some time to think over the summer, and they’re excited to share that this season will be more structured. “We’re going to try and stay a bit more focused, a bit more on topic each episode,” says Stuart. They plan to alternate between parenting discussions and business topics, aiming for deeper dives into each subject. As they reminisce about their summer breaks, Ben shares memorable moments from his time at Peppa Pig World. “It’s about making memories,” he notes, emphasizing the priceless photographs created during these outings. Stuart echoes this sentiment, sharing his own experiences of family adventures, but also expresses a longing for more time spent with his loved ones during the holidays. Episode Chapters00:00 — Season 2 kickoff and a more focused format01:57 — Summer holiday catch-up04:18 — The challenge of August and keeping things running05:17 — Parenting through the summer holidays10:08 — This week’s topic: holidays13:12 — Managing long car journeys with kids18:40 — Service station stops and holiday travel hacks24:01 — Caravan holidays, parks, and entertainment costs32:34 — Booking early vs last-minute holiday deals35:48 — ChatGPT-planned trip to Paris37:15 — Top tips for travelling with kids42:11 — Dad joke43:07 — Parenting Business LinkedIn and listener call to action

    We're Back And Lets Talk Holidays!

  3. Aug 6

    That's All Folks... For Season One!

    Stuart and Ben had a chat, wanted some time with family and so decied that it's time to take August off! So with that, we wanted to send you a quick message to let you know that Season 1 has ended. But don't worry (or maybe do worry!) because Season 2 is coming in September. The promise is that Season 2 will be more thought out, more planned and maybe a bit better than season one... thats only a maybe though! So, don't forget to get on touch with your stories, ideas, jokes and anything else, by either leaving us a comment or sending an email to podcast@parentingbusiness.com

    That's All Folks... For Season One!

  4. Jul 30

    The Chaos, The Joy and The Big Question: Will We Be Here Next Week?

    Summary In this weeks episode, Stuart and Ben share their usual candid stories from their busy parenting and business lives — from bedtime routines to epic road trips — and reflect on the realities of entrepreneurship mixed with family life. Expect honest insights, humor, and practical thoughts on balancing it all. Dont forget to follow of subscribe and remeber you can get in touch with your stories, thoughts, jokes and question by eailing podcast@parentingbusiness.com Key Topics The flexibility and chaos of running a business with kids aroundThe humorous side of parenting challenges, like late-night recording and road trip grumblesCelebrating small wins: moments of joy and pride with childrenThe impact of social events like Nottingham Pride on personal and professional lifeManaging feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome as business ownersThe importance of celebrating successes and acknowledging progressNavigating desire for material symbols of success, such as cars, versus financial security and investmentsThe influence of comparisons and self-worth in entrepreneurship and family life Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: The juggling act of parenting and entrepreneurship00:31 - Rethinking recording schedules around kids’ routines01:36 - The reality of working long hours flexibly02:47 - Celebrating kids’ independence and creativity in everyday moments03:45 - Parenting frustrations and the beauty of children leading their own play04:34 - The significance of small parenting victories and moments of pride05:01 - Discussing visual coffee art and the importance of details05:46 - Challenges of family trips, delays, and road trip frustrations06:53 - The persistent question, “Are we nearly there yet?” and managing family expectations07:45 - The influence of material possessions and the desire for status symbols08:45 - Personal stories about car choices and perceptions of success09:35 - The importance of valuing experiences and investments over flashy objects10:23 - Celebrating community events like Nottingham Pride and their broader significance11:00 - The joy and diversity of pride celebrations and corporate involvement12:27 - The relentless pressure of work and planning upcoming holidays13:16 - Discussions about taking breaks from podcasting and managing editing responsibilities14:54 - Recognizing the importance of celebrating small wins in business and life15:41 - Reflecting on respect, kindness, and managing emotions in everyday interactions16:45 - Sarcastic humor in everyday situations and managing frustrations17:45 - The story behind "urine sample" joke, highlighting humor in stressful moments18:14 - The universal fear of not being enough and its effect on entrepreneurs19:23 - Exploring the comparison trap and feelings of inadequacy20:02 - The misconception of entrepreneurship bringing more freedom and wealth21:19 - The desire for recognition and praise, regardless of age22:32 - The importance of celebrating wins and overcoming negative moods23:19 - Social media influences, status symbols, and personal identity24:13 - The lessons from luxury cars and the value of financial priorities25:05 - The story of a successful business owner with modest possessions26:07 - Cost analysis of luxury cars versus investing in future security27:34 - Fuel efficiency myths and driving habits28:46 - Imposter syndrome and feeling out of place among successful peers29:23 - Managing self-esteem and the pressure to conform to material standards30:02 - Family perceptions and the importance of self-worth beyond possessions31:10 - Long-term investments in children’s future over material luxuries31:43 - The importance of savings and compounding in financial planning33:21 - Wrapping up with questions about taking a summer break or continuing the podcast34:49 - The ongoing struggle with self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy35:54 - Final thoughts: acknowledging the chaos but finding joy in the journey

    The Chaos, The Joy and The Big Question: Will We Be Here Next Week?

  5. Jul 23

    Ben's Had Some Sh1t Customers This Week... And Stuart's One Of Them!!!

    Summary It's another week with Stuart and Ben sharing personal highs and lows, discussing current political and economic issues, and exploring business insights, all with a humorous twist. This weeks episode offers another candid look at parenting, business challenges, and the state of UK politics. Stuart also shamlessly plugs his new company It's a Dogs Life. A lifestyle clothing brand, with a humerous twist. You can check out the range at www.its-dogslife.co.uk and, if you use the discount code PARENT10 at checkout, you'll get 10% OFF! Stuart also flips The Big Question on Ben and takes over his Dad Joke, although at the minute is the bigger joke British politics? Don't forget you can get in touch with your stories, jokes and tips by ether leaving us a comment or emailing us at podcast@parentingbusiness.com Chapters Stuart's a dope and didn't actually create any this week, so you'll have to listen to the whole thing!! Keywords business, parenting, UK politics, entrepreneurship, resilience, energy, government, UK economy, business challenges, personal highs and lows

    Ben's Had Some Sh1t Customers This Week... And Stuart's One Of Them!!!

  6. Jul 16

    Harnessing AI For Business Growth & Security - Chris Wilkes: From The NHS To Tech Leadership

    Summary This week Stuart and Ben chat with Chris Wilkes, technical director at Geostream Solutions, who shares his journey from NHS support desk to leading cybersecurity and AI integration in business. We explore how AI can transform operations, the importance of family support, and practical advice for business owners navigating digital change. The guys also share another story about some of the challenges of both being a business owner and a parent and Ben gets replaced for his Dad Joke! If you want to get incolved, please do make sure you leave us a review or comment. Remeber you can calso get in touch with us by emailing podcast@parentingbusiness.com. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the show and Highs and Lows 23:07 Introduction to Chris and Geostream Solutions 25:57 Chris's Journey in IT and Family Life 28:52 Balancing Work and Family Responsibilities 31:47 The Role of AI in Business 34:45 Understanding AI and Its Applications 37:25 Educating Businesses on AI Utilization 40:30 Role Play: AI Implementation Challenges 43:22 Exploring AI's Potential for Efficiency 46:08 The Importance of Understanding AI's Capabilities 49:12 AI for Lead Generation and Automation 52:01 Conclusion: Time Management and AI Benefits 53:12 Harnessing AI for Life Improvement 55:03 Overcoming Personal Challenges 01:00:36 The Importance of Family Support 01:04:49 Career Achievements and Future Aspirations 01:10:35 Navigating AI's Impact on Jobs 01:13:28 Advice for Business Owners and Parents 01:16:25 Future Plans: Starting a Podcast 01:21:40 Embracing the 21st Century 01:24:27 Philosophical Musings on Everyday Questions 01:27:21 Family Life and Weekend Plans Keywords AI, cybersecurity, business automation, family life, career journey, digital transformation, managed IT, Microsoft 365, AI security, leadership

    Harnessing AI For Business Growth & Security - Chris Wilkes: From The NHS To Tech Leadership

  7. Jul 9

    Mechanical Breakdown This Week. Back to Mental Breakdowns Next!

    Summary Alongside the usual rambling chat about goings on in life, business ownership and parenting, this week Ben and Stuart talk about Ben's crazy car accident and the aftermath! This is coupled with the usual Big Question, which has both Stuart and Ben realise that they should know the answer but don't! Also this week, the Dad Joke becomes toddler joke of the week, in what looks set to become a new feature. Don't forget to subscribe and follow the show, so that you can get a new episode into your ears every Thursday. And, if you have any big questions, experiences or jokes to share, please either leave us a comment or drop us an email to podcast@parentingbusiness.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting and Business Balance 02:46 Celebrating Small Wins in Parenting 05:28 Highs and Lows of Business Life 05:53 The Importance of Supportive Networks 09:52 Navigating Challenges in Parenting and Business 10:47 A Heroic Moment on the Road 18:48 Frustrations with Insurance and Breakdown Services 22:10 Late Night Adventures and Misadventures 25:20 Reflections on Faith and Community 29:17 The Importance of Helping Others 34:08 Humor and Lighthearted Moments 39:49 Looking Ahead: Future Topics and Guests Keywords podcast, personal stories, road incident, faith, community, humor, parenting, business, life lessons

    Mechanical Breakdown This Week. Back to Mental Breakdowns Next!

  8. Jul 2

    The Happiness Of Being There For Your Kids Milestones

    Summary Stuart and Ben this week actually pick a topic to talk about!! Their share their satisfaction of how being a business owner can actually have it's perks and allow you to be there more for your kids important milestone. Things like sports days, first days of school, nursery graduations and more. Stuart also shares how it can be difficult, as a seperated dad who unfortnately missed out on some of thosemilestones in his daughters life, despite wanting to be there. Also, this week the guys share their usual weekly highs and lows, theirs Ben's usual dad joke and the Big Question doesn't come from a 5 year old, but instead comes from Stuart! Don't forget that you can get in touch with the show by either leaving us a comment or sending us an email to podcast@parentingbusiness.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parenting and Business Dynamics 03:00 Navigating Business Challenges and Maintaining Momentum 05:45 Highs and Lows of Business Operations 08:46 Outsourcing and Managing Workloads 11:22 The Importance of Margins in Business 13:17 Parenting Milestones and Personal Reflections 16:13 Balancing Personal Growth and Parenting 18:59 The Emotional Journey of Parenting 21:53 Reflections on Childhood and Parenting Styles 31:08 Parental Involvement in Childhood Events 33:02 Reflections on Family Dynamics and Business 33:46 Work-Life Balance and Family Priorities 36:29 Navigating Business Challenges and Family Commitments 39:17 Management Styles and Team Dynamics 43:51 Quality Control and Business Standards 47:44 Flexibility in the Workplace 51:17 Lighthearted Moments and Audience Engagement Keywords business challenges, family milestones, outsourcing, work-life balance, manufacturing, food coloring, entrepreneurship

    The Happiness Of Being There For Your Kids Milestones
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About

If you're a parent and you're in business, whether you own it or manage it, then this podcast is for you. Stuart and Ben are both multiple business owners trying to juggle work and family life. We discuss how things are going, the ups and downs of running businesses and how that affects weekly family life. We also talk about other things happening in the world, give our views on it and chat to other parents in business, to discover their stories, secrets, hints and tips for both better business and family life.

Information

  • Creator
    Stuart Malcolmson with Ben Lovejoy
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Stuart Malcolmson with Ben Lovejoy
  • Show Website
    The Parenting Business