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.

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.

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.