Mr & Mrs In Business Podcast

Why Most Business Branding Fails And How To Get It Right - Episode 31

In this episode of Mr & Mrs in Business Podcast, Chris and Helen are joined by branding expert Craig for a conversation on what branding really means for small businesses and why most companies get it wrong.
They dig into the difference between a logo and a brand, the mistakes businesses make when cutting corners and the simple tools that can instantly improve your professional image. From dodgy Canva logos to missing vector files and Hotmail email addresses, this episode unpacks how the little things affect trust, credibility and customer loyalty.
The trio also cover how to use brand guidelines without killing creativity, why consistency matters more than flash and how even AI has a place (if you know how to use it wisely). There’s real-world advice for startups and growing businesses alike, especially those who think branding is just for “when we’re bigger.”
If you're serious about standing out in a saturated market, building trust and showing your customers you mean business, this episode is a must-watch.

Is Bigger Better in Business? How We Grew 27% Without Growing the Team - Episode 30

Is growth always the goal? In this episode of Mr & Mrs in Business, Chris and Helen dive into the idea of scale asking the question: is bigger better in business, or is there a smarter way to grow?
They share how their business has grown by 27% in the past year without adding a single new team member, proving that growth doesn’t always have to mean more people, more stress, or more hours. Instead, it’s been about refining systems, being laser-focused and making decisions based on what actually brings profit and joy.
Throughout the episode, they talk openly about the pressures of managing a larger team, the turning point that changed their growth strategy and why they’ve chosen to stay intentionally lean while still scaling both revenue and impact.
If you're a small business owner wondering whether to scale up or streamline, this honest and unscripted chat offers practical insights, lived experience and a few laughs along the way. Because sometimes the answer to is bigger better in business... is no.

Why Health & Safety Matters: Solo Business Owner Marisa Firkins on Leadership, Teams & Accents - Episode 29

In this episode of the Mr & Mrs In Business Podcast, Chris and Helen sit down with Marisa Firkins, founder of Safety Forward, a leading health and safety consultancy based in Staffordshire. Marisa brings over a decade of experience as a solo business owner, delivering expert health and safety advice to industries ranging from construction and manufacturing to retail and local authorities. This episode is packed with insights on navigating the challenges of H&S compliance while scaling a business.
Marisa opens up about her transition from law enforcement into the world of health and safety, sharing candid reflections on how her past shaped her passion for protecting people at work. She explains why simplifying health and safety is key for small and medium-sized businesses and how even solo business owners can build strong teams, effective systems and supportive networks.
The conversation dives into the realities of running a business alone, the mental and emotional toll it can take and the strategies Marisa uses to combat loneliness and burnout. From hybrid work arrangements to leveraging AI tools in H&S, Marisa shares forward-thinking ideas to help other business owners future-proof their companies.
As a bonus, the episode touches on the power of accents in the business world , including how Marisa, a proud Brummie like Chris, has learn't to embrace her accent and turn it into a connection point rather than a limitation. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a H&S manager, or just curious about how accents shape business interactions, this episode offers valuable lessons and plenty of laughs.

Business Efficiency Hacks: 10 Time Management Tips Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know - Episode 28

Chris and Helen from Mr and Mrs in Business share their top 10 business growth strategies that have transformed their companies from chaotic operations into efficient, scalable enterprises. This episode reveals practical time management tips and leadership strategies that busy entrepreneurs can implement immediately to drive meaningful business growth.
The couple discusses their proven goal setting framework that keeps them accountable while managing multiple successful businesses including Thread a Pixel and Two Krakens. They share how effective team accountability sessions every Wednesday have become the cornerstone of their business efficiency approach, allowing them to focus on growth activities rather than getting stuck in daily operations.
Key leadership tips include creating a culture where constructive feedback flows freely, implementing systems that separate growth activities from operational tasks and building trust with team members who can handle day-to-day responsibilities. The hosts reveal how they use specific business growth techniques like their two-criteria filter for new projects and their annual goal setting process that has consistently delivered results across their companies.
The discussion covers practical business efficiency methods including their weekly accountability meetings, the importance of leaving cash reserves for growth opportunities and why they're not afraid to fail fast and pivot when strategies aren't working. Chris and Helen also share personal insights about maintaining team morale, handling criticism as leaders and why traditional business plans don't work for their fast-moving companies.
This episode provides actionable time management and leadership advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses without sacrificing quality or burning out their teams. Perfect for business owners seeking proven strategies to improve efficiency while maintaining sustainable growth.

HR Laws 2025: Essential Hiring Tips and How to Hire Employees Without Legal Issues - Episode 27

Chris and Helen from Mr and Mrs in Business are joined by HR expert Emma Cromarty from EC Human Resources for an in-depth discussion about navigating HR laws and hiring tips for small businesses. This episode provides essential guidance on how to hire employees while avoiding common legal pitfalls that could cost your business thousands.
Emma shares crucial insights about upcoming changes in HR laws, including the controversial day one rights legislation expected in October 2026. Business owners learn practical hiring tips that can protect them from expensive tribunal claims, with Emma explaining how the current two-year protection period for unfair dismissal claims will be eliminated. The conversation covers essential employment contracts, the importance of proper documentation, and why every business needs comprehensive HR policies regardless of size.
The discussion delves into how to hire employees effectively, emphasising the importance of thorough recruitment processes, proper onboarding, and regular performance reviews. Emma reveals why hiring friends and family can be particularly risky and shares real examples of businesses facing tribunal claims from relatives. The episode also addresses common misconceptions about HR laws that cost businesses money, including settlement agreements and harassment prevention requirements.
Listeners gain actionable hiring tips including the importance of detailed job descriptions, skills testing, and getting potential employees to spend time in the business before making final decisions. The conversation explores workplace culture changes, remote working challenges, and why proper HR documentation is more critical than ever. Emma introduces her HR Chest platform, designed to help small businesses stay compliant with employment law without breaking the bank.
This episode is essential listening for any business owner looking to understand current HR laws, implement effective hiring tips, and learn how to hire employees while minimising legal risks in an increasingly complex employment landscape.

Episode 26 - Does Size Really Matter in Business? Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better

In this episode of the Mr & Mrs in Business podcast, Chris and Helen dive into a hot topic for small business owners: is growth always the goal? Drawing from their own journey running two businesses, Thread A Pixel and Two Krakens they discuss whether a bigger team or higher turnover really equals success. With candid stories, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way, they share how finding the sweet spot in business size helped them create happier teams, better customer relationships, and more freedom.
They also reflect on the realities of managing staff, the pressures of scale, and why lean businesses can actually offer more flexibility and faster decision-making. If you’ve ever questioned whether to expand or stay small, this episode offers relatable insights, honest truths, and practical advice. Whether you’re a startup founder or an established business owner, this conversation is packed with value.
Plus, they reveal how business priorities have shifted post-COVID and how changing expectations around team culture, automation, and agility are reshaping the future of small business. With exciting updates on their podcast and content studio in the West Midlands, you’ll also get a glimpse into what’s next from Two Krakens and Thread A Pixel.

Episode 25 - Why Your Business Needs a Podcast in 2025

In this milestone episode of the Mr and Mrs in Business podcast, Chris and Helen take you behind the scenes of their brand-new podcast and content studio, built right here in the West Midlands and now available to hire. They reflect on their own podcasting journey, how it unexpectedly helped grow their business, and why launching a podcast is one of the smartest moves a business can make in 2025.
From building trust with customers to showcasing your expertise and generating content that lasts, this episode breaks down the real value a podcast brings to your marketing strategy. You’ll hear why podcasts help filter the right-fit customers, how they improve visibility, and why they’re a must-have if you're serious about standing out in a competitive market.
Whether you’re a marketing manager, business owner, or just curious about where to start, Chris and Helen share their honest experience setting up a studio that’s as welcoming as it is professional. No hard sell, just real advice from two business owners who know first-hand the power of podcasting. If you’re in the West Midlands and have been thinking about starting your own show, this episode is your sign.

Episode 24 - It's Time To Get To Know The Real Chris & Helen Butler

In this episode of Mr & Mrs in Business, Chris and Helen are back with a relaxed, unscripted chat from their usual podcast corner, sharing the kind of raw honesty that keeps listeners coming back. Helen's under the weather, but that doesn’t stop them from bringing warmth, humour, and plenty of real talk to the mic.
With the grand opening of their Two Krakens Podcast Studio just days away, the couple reflect on how far they’ve come in business and how perfectionism can sometimes be both a blessing and a curse. They also reveal how the new studio will soon be available for other businesses to hire for podcast and video content.
As a growing number of new listeners tune in, this episode takes a more personal turn. Chris and Helen pull questions from a mystery jar to reveal everything from why they started in business to how they navigate working together, arguments and all. It's a candid dive into their dynamic as business partners, parents, and a married couple.
They discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, how their different strengths help balance the business, and how separating their roles has strengthened not only their company but also their relationship. There's laughter, honesty, and even the occasional loving dig as they share what really goes on behind the scenes.
This episode gives listeners a deeper glimpse into what makes them tick, both as individuals and as a couple building multiple businesses side by side. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like running a business with your partner, or just need a little reassurance that you’re not alone in the chaos, this one’s for you.
And yes, their next episode will be filmed in their brand-new studio space, which they can’t wait to show off. Until then, it's business as usual… with a few coughs, giggles, and plenty of truth.

Episode 23 - Stephen Graham & Adolescence on Netflix Is A Masterpiece

In this powerful and emotional episode of Mr & Mrs in Business, Chris and Helen dive into the extraordinary Netflix series Adolescence and unpack the artistry, storytelling, and emotional impact that has left audiences speechless. With their usual light-hearted approach, they reflect on the series' technical brilliance and the deeper social questions it raises.
The conversation quickly turns into an appreciation of Adolescence's raw, unfiltered intensity and how Stephen Graham's masterful performance elevated the series to something unforgettable. As business owners with a deep appreciation for storytelling and production, Chris and Helen also geek out over the show's cinematography, direction, and seamless single-take sequences.
From the ripple effect of teenage decisions to the under-discussed dangers of misinformation, they touch on important themes raised by Adolescence, including the realities of growing up in the digital age. The couple also explores how Netflix and Stephen Graham have created something that transcends entertainment, sparking national conversations on education, responsibility, and empathy.
With their signature honesty, Chris and Helen share how the series made them reflect on their own parenting and the kinds of open conversations they're trying to have with their son. They advocate for Adolescence to be shown in schools, not just for its entertainment value, but for its real-life relevance and educational potential.
This episode is a break from the usual business tips, but one that’s deeply personal and packed with valuable insight. It's a reminder that impactful content can change perspectives and start meaningful conversations, whether it's on Netflix or in everyday life.
Whether you're a fan of Stephen Graham, fascinated by the craft behind filmmaking, or curious about the cultural ripple effects of Adolescence, this episode offers something for everyone. And yes, Chris and Helen will be watching it again this weekend.

Episode 22 - When Is The Right Time To Take A Break From Work?

In this episode the pair have travelled to Morocco, Marrakesh for their next podcast. The different setting is starting to become a theme although both Chris & Helen are happy to get back into their own studio soon.
It's also their first holiday without their son so a very different experience, instead they're known as Chris & Helen instead of mom and dad.
Today they're talking about when is it the right time to take a break from work and how important it is to not feel bad for working all the time but to ensure you listen to your own body for when a break is needed.
Chris again talks about his frustrations with people selling courses online with them saying you can earn 10 figure monthly salaries working only a couple of hours a day.
They also explain what sweat equity is. Chris goes further to say for most businesses he doesn't believe you needs lots of money to get started, explaining they started a business with only £30 that turned over in its peak around £400k per year.
The pair also decided to mix in some of their footage from the holiday, with seeing how the locals live from pottery making, to drinking mint tea in the home of a village.