The Parenting Business

SummaryIn this weeks episode Stuart and Ben try to bring some order to the show by having a topic to discuss. Right up until Ben mentions one final piss take in his long running roofer fiasco! That then opens the gates to a very long discussion around giving in to intimidation and whether it's the right thing to do, when it feels like family could be affected.Stuart then opens up about is anxiety around other parents judgements at birthday parties and how it often feels like you're maybe not doing a good enough job.Coupled with the usual fact of the week and dad jokes, they never actually manage to get onto the planned topic, so will have to save it for another episode.Please do remember to Like, Subscribe and leave us a review. Also, if you want to get in touch, please eiether leave us a comment or drop us an email to [email protected] sure to check out the latest episode every Thursday and please do suggest other parents and business owners take a listen and get involved.

SummaryThis week Ben and Stuart are talking Shit and it's not just their usual drivel! The chat openely about theri usual weekly lows and highs, the shit achievements of their kids, creating routines in life and then generally waffle about their lives and experiences. All of this coupled with the Big Question,Dad Joke of the Week and Ben is pleased to finish the show a bit differently, with a relaxing story to help you really drift off to sleep!Don't forget to subscibe, so that you can catch up with us every Thursday and please do leave us a comment and reiew, to help us spread the message and show other business and parents that they are not alone in their Parenting Business.If you have any stories, hints, tips or just generally want to share your thoughts, please drop us an email to [email protected]:00 Introduction and Weekly Catch-up01:16 Celebrating St. George's Day and Naval Delays02:15 Family Routine and Personal Updates03:03 Business Challenges and Company Closure05:21 Positive Business Developments and Client Trust06:10 Parenting Milestone: Daughter Sleeps Through the Night07:26 Children's Sleep Patterns and Bedtime Routines09:16 Playdates and Socializing Kids11:27 Parenting Perspectives on Social Play12:44 Child's Progress and Nappy Off Incidents14:05 Weekend Plans and Routine Appreciation15:38 The Power of Routine and Habits16:48 Setting Goals and Training for Races19:26 Returning to Fitness and Habit Formation21:07 Using Challenges to Motivate Change22:03 Celebrating Recognition and Achievements23:03 Humorous Questions and Kids' Curiosity24:58 Humor in Language and Cultural Differences26:39 Language and Spelling Fun with British and American English28:09 Uncertainty About Why Jumpers Are Called Jumpers28:35 Dad Jokes and Parenting Humor30:53 Upcoming International Guest and Future Plans31:32 Bedtime Stories and Parenting Humor32:54 Storytime and Parenting Relaxation34:25 Humor in Bedtime Routines and Sleep Challenges35:49 Closing Remarks and Parenting Reflections Keywordsparenting, routines, dad jokes, family milestones, humor, parenting challenges, bedtime stories, personal stories

SummaryThis week Ben shares a lot about the challenges he's faced over the year with members of his family and the effect it's had on him personally. With, at times, very strained relationships between himself and certain family members and how the very sad death of a relative allowed reconciliation for a while. He then shares how a shift in mindset has allowed him to accept that despite the difficulties, he knows there is always reciporical love, no matter what.Coupled with the usual highs and lows, Big Question and Dad joke of the week, it's not all doom and gloom in this heart opening episode.Don't forget that you can contact us to talk about your Parenting Business by either leaving a comment or emailing us at [email protected] also fo remember to hit the subcribe button and leave us a 5 Star review, to share your love and support, across the world of business ownership and parenting.Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Parenting Business Podcast02:56 The Swear Jar Challenge05:49 Highs and Lows of Parenting and Business11:33 Family Time and Quality Experiences16:17 Exploring Side Hustles and Reselling19:15 Consumer Tips and Insights19:32 The Value of Resale and Reuse20:54 Navigating Family Dynamics and Insecurities21:22 Understanding Family Relationships and Personal Growth26:10 The Impact of Family on Personal Identity29:39 Finding Strength in Adversity34:36 Rewiring Personal Narratives37:12 Embracing Change and Moving Forward44:02 Life Choices and Regrets45:19 Defining Success47:53 Happiness and Family Dynamics50:36 The Pursuit of Happiness53:57 Understanding Food Sources and Respect for AnimalsKeywordspersonal growth, family relationships, insecurities, self-awareness, happiness, life lessons

This is part 2, so if you missed part 1, it may be an idea to listen to that first. :-)SummaryIn this weeks episode, we continue our chat with Chris Morris about his profound journey through both personal and professional challenges, including family seperatation, legal battles in the family court and mental resilience. Both Chris and Stuart share a lot of their personal experiences around the family court system and their personal co-parenting challenges, whilst trying to maintain apositive relationship with teir children. They share their insights of the legal system and the importance of remaining child focused, in any seperation.Remember, you can get in touch with your stories, questions, tips and dad jokes, by emailing us at [email protected] resilience, family separation, legal battles, mental health, overcoming adversity, parenting, life challenges, mental strength, family law, personal growth co-parenting, court battles, emotional resilience, legal advice, family relationships, mental health, parenting challenges, court orders, child custody, personal stories

SummaryIn this weeks episode, we start our chat with Chris Morris about his profound journey through both personal and professional challenges, including family seperatation, legal battes in the family court and mental resilience. Both Chris and Stuart share a lot of their personal experiences around the family court system and their personal co-parenting challenges, whilst trying to maintain apositive relationship with teir children. They share their insights of the legal system and the importance of remaining child focused, in any seperation.This is just part 1, so don't forget to follow the show, so you can be the first to have access to part 2, next week. Remember, you can get in touch with your stories, questions, tips and dad jokes, by emailing us at [email protected]:00 Introduction, Highs and Lows21:21 Chris Morris's Early Life and Local Roots22:49 Initial Court Battles and Emotional Impact24:32 Chris's Work Background and Entrepreneurial Spirit25:56 Legal Strategies and Court Order Challenges27:13 From Milkman to Business Owner: Career Evolution30:12 Building Relationships with Children Post-Separation31:30 Personal Tragedies and Family Separation34:22 The Impact of Family Breakdown on Mental Health35:26 Managing Mental Health and Personal Resilience38:08 Balancing Business and Personal Life Challenges39:55 Negotiation, Flexibility, and Co-Parenting Dynamics42:53 Legal Battles and Court Experiences45:28 Reflections on Parenting, Legacy, and Moving Forward46:25 Reuniting with Children and Overcoming Obstacles52:38 Advice on Navigating Family Law and Contact Centers59:42 Mental Health, Coping, and Support Systems59:45 Round Up and Ben's Dad Joke of The Week Keywordspersonal resilience, family separation, legal battles, mental health, overcoming adversity, parenting, life challenges, mental strength, family law, personal growth co-parenting, court battles, emotional resilience, legal advice, family relationships, mental health, parenting challenges, court orders, child custody, personal stories

SummaryThis week Stuart and Ben had to hastily put together what even they think is their worst episode yet! Why? Because their still recording next weeks guest episode, having started it 2 days ago!! They do manage to chat about their regular highs and lows, Big question and even chat about Chuck Norris.That's all coupled with their usual dull ramblings about family life, business and just any other waffle they could think of.Do tell us if you think this is the worst episode so far and whether it could indeed get any worse than this?You can email us your thoughts on [email protected]:00 Introduction and Overview01:07 Personal Updates and Positivity03:20 Highs and Lows of the Week12:04 Family and Parenting Challenges15:40 Health and Fitness Goals23:28 Engaging Questions and Curiosities24:06 Potholes and Local Council Accountability28:34 The Impact of Public Sector Productivity28:59 The Science of Hair and Aging33:26 Reflections on Chuck Norris and Pop Culture35:54 Reality TV and Relationship Dynamics37:56 Upcoming Guests and Future Episodes41:38 Humor and Dad Jokes in Everyday Life Keywordsparenting, business, personal stories, humor, work-life balance, highs and lows, reflections, future plans

WarningDuring this weeks episode we do discuss mental health topics which some listeners may find triggering. If you are struggling with your mental health, please remeber you are not alone and there are organisations and indivudals out there who can absolutely support you, no matter what you're going through.SummaryIn this weeks episode Stuart and Ben have had a really mentally challenging week, including some real situations around their businesses that have affected their mental health.They also talk about how stresses of running a business can impact personal relationships with partners and how it can lead to bth partners feeling less than fully aknowledged or suppported.They also talk about theri highs and lows and Stuart has a new production toy to play with! Ben also has another BIG question and some of his dad jokes!Please do support us by leaving a review, comment or by sharing the podcast with other parents and business owners. remember you can also get in touch with your storys, tips, or anything else by emailing us at [email protected]

SummaryThis week Stuart and Ben waffle on about their usual highs and lows, then get into rants about car troubles, the cost of kids' parties, kids' sickness and how first contact in your business marketing is so imprtant, whether you initially win the customer of not.Ben also shares his Dad joke of the week and the guys have a waffle about other goings on.Don't forget to please subcribe, like, comment and leave us a review. If you have any questions, top business or parenting tips, or would like to share your experiences, please get in touch by emailing us directly at [email protected]:00 Introduction and Listener Feedback02:22 Consistency in Podcasting and Audience Engagement02:56 Highs and Lows: Car Troubles and Walking Wins07:47 Kids' Sick Days and School Policies09:31 Enjoying the Simple Moments: Morning in the Garden10:23 Low Point: Daughter's Sick Morning11:20 Backwards Marathon and Fundraising Challenges15:27 Podcast Production and Future Plans18:28 Customer Service and Business Relationships21:01 Pension and Payroll Mishaps22:47 Crocodile Encounters and Travel Tales27:31 Kids' Party Planning and Cost-Saving Tips39:10 Humorous Dad Jokes and Family Life45:14 Party Planning and Celebrations49:26 Upcoming Birthdays and Event Planning50:48 Closing Remarks and Listener EngagementKeywordsparenting, entrepreneurship, car troubles, kids parties, work-life balance, humor, personal stories

SummaryIn this conversation, Craig Manifield shares his journey from a young roller hockey player in Spain to becoming a successful entrepreneur with multiple businesses, including a tattoo shop and a dog food store. He talks very openly about the challenges of trying to co-parent and the fight to be involved when relationships break down, particularly battling through the court system and the heartache that perceived parential alienation can bring. Craig emphasizes the importance of setting a good example for his children and the support he receives from his brother during tough times. He also shares his aspirations for the future, including dreams of moving to Lanzarote and continuing to grow his businesses while prioritizing family time.This is coupled with Stuart and Ben's usual chat about theri weekly lows and highs.You can find Craig's businesses at:Tattoo82 - https://www.facebook.com/Tattoo82De552bpDoberfields - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569110283337Don't forget to get in touch with us with your parenting experiences, questions, jokes or anything else. Likwise, if you would like to come onto the show to share your experiences or just want to reach out to us privately, for support, please email us on [email protected]:00 Introduction16:51 Craig's Journey: From Roller Hockey to Tattooing19:30 Family Dynamics and Business Challenges21:23 Balancing Fatherhood and Entrepreneurship24:04 The Impact of Family Health on Business Decisions26:48 Creating a Community Through Business29:33 The Future: Passing the Torch to the Next Generation38:08 Balancing Work and Family Life43:06 Navigating the Court System as a Parent49:42 The Importance of Support Systems55:26 Celebrating Business Successes57:36 Balancing Business and Family Life58:43 Dreams and Future Aspirations01:00:37 The Importance of Taking Breaks01:02:11 Building Trust with Staff01:02:40 Long-Term Plans and Goals01:04:37 Maintaining the Charm of a Small Business01:07:22 Family Connections and Nostalgia01:09:47 Future Family Plans and Experiences01:10:51 Advice for Business Owners and Parents01:12:24 Promoting Doberfields and Tattoo8201:15:43 Honesty and Openness in Parenting Conversations01:18:25 The Impact of Parenting on Children01:20:48 Navigating Legal Challenges in Parenting01:22:41 Addressing Difficult Questions from Children01:25:10 Wrapping Up and Encouraging EngagementKeywordsbusiness, parenting, tattooing, dog food, family, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, court system, support systems, advice

SummaryThis week Stuart and Ben chat about the highs and lows of their week, including dealing with staff issues, the importance of family time, and the lessons learned from unexpected situations. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of business decisions, the joys of family adventures, and the humorous side of parenting, including a discussion about a new initiative called 'Ponytails In The Pub' for dads to learn hairstyling. Ben also want to start a new segment for the show around dad jokes. Oh, and they discuss shooting Bambi!If you want to get involved, have any questions or just want to slate us with your feedback, please do email us as [email protected]'t forget to also leave us a 5 star review and subscribe so that you can listen to us talk rubbish every Thursday.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Parenting and Business02:20 Navigating the Lows and Highs of Business09:58 Balancing Family Time and Work13:49 Challenges of Business Partnerships17:00 Family Adventures and Quality Time22:00 Learning to Do Hair: A Dad's Journey26:58 Lessons from Bedtime Stories32:58 Questions from Kids: The Circle of Life38:59 Dad Jokes and Listener Engagement

SummaryIn this weeks episode Stuart and Ben chat with Shane Fitzgerald, owner of Fitzmark Workwear who shares his insights about running a family business, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of mental health. He discusses his journey in the workwear industry, the dynamics of parenting, and the value of personal service in business. Shane emphasizes the need for work-life balance and reflects on his experiences as a parent and entrepreneur, offering advice to others in similar situations.If you want to contact the show, either leave us a comment or drop us an email to [email protected]. Please also make sure you leave us a review or any feedback about how we can improve the show for you.

SummaryIn this weeks episode of The Parenting Business podcast, Stuart and Ben share their weekly low points, including canceled swimming lessons and the struggles of dealing with a teething baby. The conversation shifts to high points, celebrating successes in their personal and professional lives. Stuart then manages to propbably upset half the worlds population, in response to a question one of Ben's children has asked him. Then, just for a change, it's Stuart's turn to rant about holiday planning as a single parent, highlighting the lack of savings for single-parent families when booking vacations. They then chat about the costs of UK holidays versus trips abroad, and conclude with reflections on their experiences and future plans.If you want to get in touch or come on the show and chat about your Parenting Business, please do either leave us a comment or email us at [email protected]:00 Introduction to The Parenting Business Podcast02:47 Navigating Parenting and Business Challenges06:01 Personal Struggles: Leaking Roofs and Teething Babies08:58 Highs and Lows of Parenting12:01 Finding Balance: Holidays as a Single Parent15:04 Celebrating Milestones: Kids in Sports17:58 Engaging with the Audience: Listener Interaction20:59 Seeking Sponsorship and Support24:09 Work-Life Balance: Staff vs. Kids27:00 Consumer Advice: Booking Holidays30:01 Conclusion and Future Topics32:16 The Cost of Family Holidays34:43 Exploring UK Holiday Options39:54 The Price of UK vs. Abroad Holidays46:24 Consumer Advice for Family Holidays49:33 Comparing European Holiday Parks

SummaryThis week Stuart & Ben chat with Sarah Armson, the founder of Actifire, a fire safety consultancy. Sarah shares her journey from working in manufacturing fire doors to launching her own business, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. She discusses the pivotal moment when she decided to leave her secure job to pursue her passion, driven by the desire to create a better work-life balance for herself and her family. Sarah emphasizes the importance of family support and the role of her business partner, Kieran, in her journey.You can find out more about Sarah's passions at:www.actifire.co.uk gardensofgiving.comAnd, if you're looking out for support around social media and your children, visit positivesocial.org.ukPlease don't forget to leave us a review, comment and follow us. You can also email us directly at [email protected] safety, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, women in business, charity work, Actifier, Sarah Armson, Mansfield, youth work, family support, parenting, social media, business owner, work-life balance, youth work, Positive Social, TikTok, WhatsApp, Actifier, family

SummaryIn this episode of the Parenting Business podcast, hosts Stuart and Ben discuss the challenges and joys of balancing parenting with running a business. They reflect on feedback from listeners, share personal highlights and low points from their week, and navigate the complexities of staff absence in their businesses. The conversation also touches on the emotional support needed in both parenting and business, and they humorously explore the absurdities of children's questions about the world.Don't forget you can contact is directly by emailing [email protected] to share your thoughts, ideas, tips and if you're interested in coming on a show to share your journey, as both a business owner and parent.Keywordsparenting, business, feedback, emotional support, personal stories, challenges, highlights, low points, staff absence, family

SummaryIn this episode Stuart & Ben chat with John Lamerton as he shares his journey from a civil servant to a successful entrepreneur and author. He discusses the pivotal moments in his life that led him to prioritize family and redefine success through an ambitious lifestyle business. John emphasizes the importance of being present for his children and the challenges he faced navigating the education system, particularly with his children's additional needs. He advocates for homeschooling as a means to provide a customized education and foster confidence in children. The discussion also touches on the balance between ambition and lifestyle, time management, and the significance of teaching values to children. In this conversation, John Lamerton discusses the importance of peer groups and supportive networks for business owners. He emphasizes the value of community in navigating personal struggles and the need for a culture of recognition within businesses. The discussion also touches on the significance of understanding incentives, optimizing for lifestyle, and the critical nature of customer retention. Lamerton shares insights on the cost of customer service failures and the value of existing customers, concluding with advice for parents balancing business and family life.You can find out more about The 1% Club, John's other amazing resources and contact him directly by visiting bigidea.co.ukIf you're inspired by this episode and would like to come on and share your Parenting Business, please do contact us at [email protected]

SummaryIn this episode of The Parenting Business, hosts Stuart and Ben discuss the multifaceted challenges of parenting, particularly when managing multiple children. They explore sibling dynamics, the impact of neurodiversity, and strategies for handling tantrums and meltdowns. The conversation also touches on the differences in parenting styles, the unique challenges of raising daughters, and how weather can affect family activities. Additionally, they delve into the role of soft play centers as a solution for energetic children and reflect on the complexities of podcasting about parenting. In this episode, Stuart and Ben discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step in any endeavor. They share personal experiences of starting their podcast and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the need for efficiency in business while also prioritizing family time, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own work-life balance and the motivations behind their efforts.Keywordsparenting, work-life balance, neurodiversity, sibling dynamics, tantrums, teenage years, soft play, podcasting, parenting challenges, family life, podcast, parenting, business, efficiency, family, work-life balance, personal growth, entrepreneurship, motivation, self-improvement

SummaryThis week, Ben rants about white van drivers and the guys chat with their very first guest, Mark Goldby, exploring his journey from a farm upbringing to a successful ice hockey career and later transitioning into business leadership. Mark shares insights on resilience, teamwork, and the importance of a strong work ethic, as well as the challenges he faced when buying a business and navigating crises. The discussion also touches on parenting and the value of support networks in both personal and professional life.You can sponsor Mark on his challenges on his Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/mark-goldby-8?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=WA&utm_campaign=021If you want to join us on the show, please get in touch via [email protected]:00 Introduction and Background02:47 Early Life and Ice Hockey Journey05:52 Transition from Sports to Business08:53 Leadership Lessons from Ice Hockey12:12 Career Progression at Siemens14:48 The Leap to Entrepreneurship18:06 Challenges of Business Ownership21:06 Navigating Crisis and Resilience24:01 Support Systems and Networking28:23 Reflections on Parenting and Life Lessons29:56 Conclusion and Future AspirationsKeywordsice hockey, business leadership, entrepreneurship, resilience, career progression, teamwork, parenting, networking, life lessons, personal growth

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!In this episode of The Parenting Business, Stuart and Ben ramble on about plans for the New Year and theri thoughts on resolutions.As usual, Ben has a moan about anything he can and upsets another sector of people, as they also discuss how they manage their own faith in their futures, when things get tough, as well as making a commitment to the future of the show throughout 2026!If you're wanting to ask any questions, share stories or maybe even join us on an episode, please get in touch at [email protected], don't forget to click to follow us for a new show every Thursday! Your involvement and support may also make a difference to another persons life.

Find out a few things about what we're going to be up to in 2026 and catch up on our previous episode on Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.If you're wanting to ask any questions, share stories or maybe even join us on an episode, please get in touch at [email protected] in on New Years day for our first episode of 2026.

In this episode of The Parent in Business podcast, hosts Stuart and Ben discuss the stresses and joys of the Christmas season as parents. They share personal anecdotes about family activities, the challenges of managing expectations, and the emotional complexities of single parenting during the holidays. The conversation also touches on the importance of reaching out for support and finding ways to enjoy the festive season without added pressure.Chapters00:00 The Juggling Act of Family and Business04:00 Christmas Preparations and Family Dynamics11:50 Anticipating Christmas Day: Plans and Expectations19:58 Christmas Traditions and Celebrations26:08 The Cost of Memories: Photography and Family Portraits28:04 The Challenges of Photography Pricing29:58 Christmas Preparations and Family Dynamics31:59 The Gender Divide in Holiday Planning33:57 Navigating Christmas Alone36:58 Mental Health and the Holidays39:58 Finding Joy Amidst Loneliness43:04 Tips for Surviving Family Christmas45:56 Wrapping Up and Looking AheadKeywordsChristmas, parenting, family, stress, business, holidays, traditions, single parenting, expectations, mental health

In this episode of The Parenting Business, hosts Stuart and Ben discuss their recent experiences, including family activities and the challenges of balancing work and personal life during the busy Christmas season. They delve into the importance of mental health, coping strategies, and the value of networking and support systems for business owners. The conversation also touches on influential books and music that have impacted their lives, culminating in a light-hearted conclusion about the holiday season and its stresses.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Weekly Updates02:41 Christmas Preparations and Family Activities05:32 Business Challenges and Christmas Shutdowns11:05 Mental Health and Coping Strategies During Christmas20:23 Reflections on Personal Growth and Family Dynamics28:30 Perspective on Bad Days31:17 The Importance of Mentorship33:31 Networking for Support38:09 Music and Mental Health43:24 Influential Books and Biographies50:39 Reflections on Aging and Life ExperiencesKeywordsparenting, business, Christmas, mental health, family activities, networking, personal growth, influential books, music, employee wellbeing

Stuart realises just how much of a "bah, humbug" Ben is when it comes to Christmas and his wife's upcoming birthday and asks "Whatever happened to the Argos catalogue?" and how to kids write their Christmas present list now?. This week the guys also chat a little more about Ben's business (Quicktex), what else they've been up to with their kids, in the run up to Christmas and why businesses offer discounts at this time of year?

We catch up following Rachel Reeves Autumn 2025 Budget, to chat about what they think of it and how they think it will affect them, in a (not so) special bonus episode.They ramble about what happened and how they think it will affect the world and their lives as parents and small business owners.Don't forget to please subscribe, so you can always be up to date with our latest ramblings. You can also leave us a comment and reviews are always welcome.

SummaryIn the inaugural episode of The Parenting Business podcast, hosts Stuart and Ben Lovejoy share their personal journeys as fathers and business owners. They discuss the challenges of balancing parenthood with entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health support, and the lessons learned from their respective business failures. The conversation highlights the need for open communication about struggles in both parenting and business, and the hosts express their desire to build a supportive community for parents navigating similar challenges. They also outline their plans for future episodes, inviting listeners to share their stories and experiences.TakeawaysBoth hosts share their backgrounds in business and parenting.Ben discusses his journey from outdoor activities to textiles.The importance of mental health support for parents and business owners.Navigating the challenges of becoming a parent while running a business.The significance of finding support during tough times.Lessons learned from business failures and restructuring.Advice for business owners struggling with debt and mental health.The need for open communication about mental health in parenting.The impact of becoming a dad on personal and professional life.Future plans for the podcast to support parents in business.Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Parenting Business Podcast03:01 Ben Lovejoy's Business Journey05:47 Transitioning from Outdoor Activities to Textiles08:45 The Challenges of Becoming a Parent11:44 Navigating Business and Parenthood14:38 Mental Health and Business Struggles17:25 The Impact of Becoming a Dad20:10 Finding Support in Tough Times23:09 Lessons Learned from Business Failures26:09 Advice for Struggling Business Owners28:54 The Importance of Communication and Support31:41 Looking Ahead: Future Podcast PlansKeywordsparenting, business, mental health, entrepreneurship, support, challenges, fatherhood, business journey, resilience, community