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PODCAST · education

Everything Early Childhood

Welcome to the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, designed for Approved Providers, Nominated Supervisors and other child care business leaders. This fun, light-hearted and very serious podcast features weekly episodes on strategy, advice and conversations with fascinating and inspiring people from across our sector. Join the journey and have access to the tools and inspiration you need to create high performing child care businesses.

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    Mud, Magic & the Mama Tree: Reimagining Childhood Through Nature with Amelia

    Mud, Magic & the Mama Tree: Reimagining Childhood Through Nature with Amelia What happens when we slow down enough to truly see childhood? In this week's episode, Leeza travels north of Sydney to experience Mama Tree Farm firsthand before sitting down with founder, educator and mother, Amelia, to explore the story behind this extraordinary community. Together, they unpack Amelia's journey from early childhood teacher and primary school educator to creating a space where children, families and community can reconnect with nature, each other and themselves. This conversation is about so much more than mud, animals and outdoor play. It's a powerful reflection on connection, belonging, risk, community, leadership and the courage it takes to trust your instincts and create something deeply aligned with your values. Whether you're an educator, leader, parent or simply someone passionate about childhood, this episode will leave you reflecting on what children truly need and what we may have lost along the way. ## In this episode, we discuss: * Amelia's journey to creating Mama Tree Farm * The legacy of family, childhood and the story behind the Mama Tree * Why slowing down matters for both children and adults * The power of connection, belonging and community * Nature play, risky play and trusting children to lead their own learning * Creating environments that inspire wonder rather than entertain * Why observation is a powerful form of learning * The role animals can play in co-regulation and wellbeing * Supporting families to embrace mud, mess and imperfection * Following your intuition and staying true to your vision ## Key Takeaways: ✨ Childhood was never meant to happen entirely within four walls. ✨ Connection cannot wait. ✨ Children are often far more capable than we give them credit for. ✨ The most meaningful learning often happens in moments of wonder, curiosity and play. ✨ Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is trust ourselves and follow the vision on our hearts. ### Connect with Amelia and Mama Tree Farm: Instagram: @mamatreefarm --- If this episode resonated with you, we'd love for you to share it with a colleague, friend or fellow leader and tag us on social media. Because leadership, childhood and community were never meant to be experienced alone. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

  2. 137

    AI in Early Childhood: Tool, Threat or Turning Point? with Adam Hucker

    AI in Early Childhood: Tool, Threat or Turning Point? Artificial Intelligence is everywhere. Some people are excited by it. Some are overwhelmed by it. Some are using it every day, while others are doing everything they can to avoid it. But regardless of where you sit, AI is already changing the way we work, communicate, access information and make decisions. In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza Browne is joined by Adam Hucker from Policy Pass to unpack one of the biggest conversations happening in our sector right now. Together, they explore the opportunities, concerns, myths and realities of AI in early childhood education. From workload reduction and compliance support through to privacy risks, data security, hallucinations and the future of human thinking, this is a balanced conversation about what leaders need to know now. This episode is not about whether AI is good or bad. It is about learning how to use AI responsibly, ethically and thoughtfully, while protecting the critical thinking, professional judgement and human connection that sit at the heart of early childhood education. In this episode, we discuss: • Why AI has become one of the fastest adopted technologies in history • How services are currently using AI for policies, procedures, communication, documentation and administration • The importance of understanding AI's limitations and why it sometimes gets things wrong • What AI hallucinations are and why they matter in compliance and technical writing • Data privacy, confidentiality and the risks of entering sensitive information into AI platforms • The importance of creating guardrails, policies and expectations around AI use within services • How effective prompting can improve the quality of AI-generated outputs • The role of ethics, values and human judgement when using technology • Whether AI will replace jobs and what the future may hold for education and society • Why the human element of early childhood education remains irreplaceable • The balance between embracing innovation and maintaining professional responsibility Key Takeaways AI can be an incredibly powerful tool, but it is not a replacement for critical thinking. Just because AI provides an answer does not mean it is the right answer. As leaders, educators and professionals, we still have a responsibility to question, verify, reflect and apply professional judgement. Technology will continue to evolve, but relationships, trust, empathy and human connection remain at the centre of quality early childhood education. Our final message? Use the tool. Don't lose the human. Connect with Leeza 🎙️ Everything Early Childhood Podcast 📚 Platinum Education Group 🌐 Training, mentoring, leadership development and compliance support for early childhood professionals across Australia.

  3. 136

    The belonging conversation we're not actually having - Part 4

    🎙️ Everything Early Childhood Podcast The Belonging Conversation We're Not Actually Having ### Why Team Building Isn't the Same as Building Community Part 4 of our series: **The Conversations We're All Having... But Not Properly Unpacking.** --- How do we bring our teams together? How do we get everyone on the same page? How do we create a shared vision? How do we build a culture people actually want to be part of? These are some of the biggest questions I'm hearing from educators, leaders, directors and owners right now. But what if this isn't actually a team-building conversation? What if it's a belonging conversation? In this episode, I explore what happens to connection, trust and community when survival mode becomes the culture of a profession. We unpack: ✨ Why belonging might be the thing we're really searching for ✨ The difference between a team and a community ✨ What survival mode does to relationships ✨ Why support means something different to everyone ✨ The hidden reason team-building activities often don't work ✨ Psychological safety and why "nice to your face" doesn't always mean safe ✨ The difference between belonging and fitting in ✨ Healthy conflict, leadership and shared vision ✨ Why I think many of us might be grieving the loss of community ✨ The question every leader should be asking about their culture right now This isn't an episode about blame. It's not about leaders versus educators. It's not about who's right and who's wrong. It's about humans. Connection. Belonging. Community. And what it means to create places where people genuinely want to be. Because maybe the answer isn't getting people to show up for work. Maybe it's creating places people genuinely want to belong. 💗 ### Reflection Questions • What are people currently bonding over in your service? • What is the thing currently holding your team together? • When educators ask for support, do you know what support actually means to them? • Do people feel safe giving honest feedback in your service? • Are you building a team, or are you building a community? • What would it look like for people to genuinely belong here? --- 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone in early childhood who needs to hear this conversation. Because these are the conversations we're all having... Let's talk about them. --- 💛 Connect with Leeza Browne Founder & CEO, Platinum Education Group Host of the Everything Early Childhood Podcast "People before paperwork. Relationships before systems. Belonging before performance."

  4. 135

    The question that started it all: Why dont people want to show up to work anymore? - Part 3

    EPISODE TITLE The Conversation That Started It All: Why Don’t People Want to Show Up to Work Anymore? EPISODE SHOW NOTES This week’s episode of the Everything Early Childhood Podcast is unlike any episode I’ve recorded before. No polished script. No “5 tips.” No perfectly packaged answers. Just me, a whiteboard and one question I genuinely cannot stop thinking about: Why don’t people want to show up to work anymore? And the deeper I unpacked it, the more I realised this conversation is about so much more than staffing. This episode is part of the “Conversations We Need to Start Having” series — a series created to explore the deeper tensions, shifts and uncomfortable conversations sitting underneath the surface of our profession right now. Because this isn’t about blame. It’s not about pointing fingers at educators, leaders, owners or teams. It’s about curiosity. Understanding. Reflection. And trying to make sense of the complexity so many people are currently feeling. In this episode, I unpack: * burnout and emotional exhaustion * disconnection from purpose and meaning * leadership pressure and emotional load * changing family dynamics * increasing expectations within the profession * support systems and workplace culture * why surface-level solutions often aren’t enough * the difference between burnout and disconnection * what happens when people lose connection to mission, identity and belonging * why these conversations matter if we genuinely want meaningful change This episode is raw, reflective and deeply human. It’s less of a polished podcast episode and more of an invitation into my thought process as I try to understand the patterns, shifts and deeper realities our profession is currently navigating. And honestly… I’d love to hear your thoughts too. What resonated with you? What patterns are you noticing? And what conversations do you think we need to start having more honestly? As always… every moment counts.

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    When Survival Mode Becomes Team Culture - Part 2

    When Survival Mode Becomes Team Culture What happens when “hard” stops being a season… and becomes the identity of the profession? In this deeply honest and reflective episode, Leeza explores the emotional weight many educators, leaders and owners are carrying right now — and the uncomfortable truth that exhaustion has become normalised in early childhood. This is not an episode about pretending everything is fine. And it’s not another “just stay positive” conversation. This is a real discussion about burnout, survival mode, compliance pressure, emotional overload, and the growing disconnect between what early childhood currently feels like… and what it was always meant to feel like. Leeza unpacks: Why so many educators and leaders feel emotionally exhausted How burnout can quietly become part of team culture The difference between surviving and truly leading Why people are grieving the profession they thought they were entering The hidden impact of constant compliance pressure Why “wellbeing” is much deeper than cupcakes and self-care walls The danger of bonding only through stress and overwhelm What children feel when adults are operating in survival mode How to rebuild hope, purpose and connection in small, realistic ways Throughout the episode, Leeza shares powerful reflections from the Directors Academy, explores multiple perspectives across the sector, and asks the big question: Are we willing to change… or have we become comfortable talking about how hard it is? This episode is for: Educators feeling emotionally flat or overwhelmed Directors carrying the weight of everyone around them Owners trying to balance sustainability and quality Teams wanting to reconnect with purpose Anyone who still believes early childhood should feel meaningful, connected and human Because maybe the answer isn’t pretending it isn’t hard. Maybe the answer is refusing to let hard become all that it is. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation. ✨ Reflection questions included at the end of the episode. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ECELeadership #DirectorLife #EducatorWellbeing #ChildcareLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #EarlyLearning #Burnout #TeamCulture #WellbeingInECE #EveryMomentCounts

  6. 133

    The Early Childhood reset everyone's talking about - Part 1

    Something has shifted in early childhood… and everyone can feel it. In this deeply honest and confronting episode, Leeza Browne unpacks the growing exhaustion, pressure and uncertainty being felt across the early childhood profession right now. From workforce shortages, rising operational costs and child safety reform, to emotionally overwhelmed teams, shifting family expectations and the increasing weight of compliance… this episode explores the question so many leaders are quietly asking behind closed doors: Is long day care dying… or are we being forced to rethink everything? But this conversation goes far beyond fear or negativity. This is a real and nuanced discussion about: The emotional toll current reforms are having on leaders and educators Whether increasing administrative burden is actually improving outcomes for children The growing disconnect between policy expectations and operational reality Why many leaders no longer feel confident, despite trying incredibly hard The loss of joy, presence and connection in the profession Why “busy” and “exceptional” are not the same thing The reset currently happening across early childhood Why only the most intentional, values-led and trusted services will truly thrive moving forward Leeza also explores the uncomfortable but important truth that while early childhood education itself is absolutely not dying, the season of “good enough” may be. This episode is for the exhausted directors, educators, owners and leaders carrying the emotional weight of a profession they care deeply about. If you’ve been quietly wondering: “Can we keep doing this?” or “Why does everything feel so heavy right now?” …this conversation is for you. Because maybe this isn’t the death of early childhood. Maybe it’s the beginning of rebuilding it stronger. 🎧 Connect with Platinum Education Group: Platinum Education Group 🎙️ Follow Everything Early Childhood for more conversations supporting owners, directors and educators across Australia.

  7. 132

    Culture is more than a checklist with Jessica Staines

    Culture Is More Than a Checklist with Jessica Staines In this week’s episode of the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Jessica Staines from Koori Curriculum for a deeply important conversation about what it really means to embed Aboriginal perspectives meaningfully in early childhood. This isn’t a conversation about ticking boxes, adding a few cultural experiences during NAIDOC Week, or “getting it perfect.” It’s a conversation about relationships, curiosity, identity, belonging, and moving beyond tokenistic practice to create environments where culture is genuinely lived, reflected, respected, and celebrated every single day. Together, we unpack: Why many educators feel nervous or unsure about where to begin The fear of “getting it wrong” and how that creates paralysis in practice The difference between performing culture vs embedding it meaningfully How culture extends far beyond ethnicity and exists within our communities, environments, stories, values, interests and everyday life The powerful concept of “windows and mirrors” in early childhood environments Why slowing pedagogy down creates deeper and more meaningful learning How educators can start their journey with confidence, curiosity and humility The role of relationships, mentoring and community in meaningful cultural learning Why anti-bias approaches matter more than ever How we can create environments where every child, family and educator feels seen, valued and reflected Jess shares practical examples, powerful reflections, and honest insights from over 20 years of experience supporting educators to move beyond surface-level inclusion and into truly embedded practice. This episode is reflective, practical, honest, and incredibly grounding for any educator or leader wanting to create more culturally responsive environments without fear, overwhelm or perfectionism. Because culture is not a checklist. It’s a way of being. About Jessica Staines Jessica Staines is a Wiradjuri woman, early childhood teacher, and the founder of Koori Curriculum. Jess is passionate about supporting educators to embed Aboriginal perspectives authentically within early childhood environments through mentoring, professional development, resources and community connection. You can connect with Jess here: Website: https://kooricurriculum.com Instagram: @kooricurriculum Facebook: Koori Curriculum Loved this episode? If this conversation resonated with you, please share it with your team, community or another educator who needs to hear it. And if you haven’t already, make sure you subscribe to the Everything Early Childhood Podcast so you never miss an episode. Keep making every moment count

  8. 131

    Your questions Answered - Q&A April 2026

    PODCAST SHOW NOTES Q&A: You Don’t Need More Time… You Need a Different Way of Leading This month’s Q&A episode is built completely from your questions — real challenges coming from the floor, your teams, and your leadership right now. Firstly, thank you to everyone who took the time to submit a question. I know how busy you are, and these episodes are designed to support you in real time — not just in theory, but in what you’re actually navigating every day. What We Covered In this episode, we unpack: The growing pressure around planning and documentation — and whether it’s actually serving a purpose anymore How to lead as an Educational Leader when you’re constantly on the floor Mentoring your team in real time when you feel like you don’t have capacity Making compliance and QIP feel simple, clear, and connected Occupancy — why some services are thriving and others are starting to feel the pressure The Big Insight While these questions look different on the surface… they’re not. They all point to one core challenge: 👉 How do I lead when I don’t feel like I have the time, space, or capacity to lead? This episode unpacks the patterns behind the overwhelm — and why it’s not about doing more, but leading differently. Key Takeaways Planning should support understanding — not just prove compliance You can’t deeply lead pedagogy without space to think Mentoring doesn’t require more time — it requires intention in the moment Compliance feels overwhelming when systems are unclear or scattered Occupancy isn’t just a marketing issue — it’s a leadership and alignment issue Occupancy Framework (Simplified) Occupancy doesn’t sit in one area — it flows across three key stages: Marketing — How clearly you communicate what makes your service unique Sales — The experience families have when they first interact with you Experience — Whether your service delivers on what was promised And underpinning all of it? 👉 Your philosophy — your vision, mission, and values.  A Question to Reflect On At some point, every leader needs to ask: Am I ready to actually lead this service… or am I more comfortable staying in the fire? Final Thought You don’t need more time. You need a different way of leading. Want Support With This? This is exactly the work we do inside the Directors Academy — helping leaders step out of the day-to-day overwhelm and into clear, confident leadership with structure and support around them. If this episode resonated with you, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either. Submit Your Question This is part of our monthly Q&A series, and we’d love to hear from you. We share question prompts via email and inside the Everything Early Childhood Facebook group — or you can reach out anytime. Next Episode We’re unpacking one of the biggest questions facing our sector right now: 👉 Is long day care dying? We’ll explore what’s actually changing, what it means for you, and where the opportunities are moving forward. Stay Connected If this episode resonated, share it with someone in your team or another leader who needs to hear it. Because every moment counts — and leadership matters more than ever right now.

  9. 130

    Director File: Holding It All Together

    “I feel like I’m holding everything together… and I don’t know how much longer I can keep doing it.”   In this month’s Director File, Leeza shares a powerful and deeply relatable letter from a director who is caught in the cycle of supporting everyone else… while slowly burning out themselves.   This episode explores:   • The blurred lines between connection and over-supporting your team • The emotional load of being “the one everyone goes to” • Why creating a safe culture can sometimes go too far • The hidden leadership patterns that create dependency • The shift from rescuing → leading   This is a raw and honest conversation that so many leaders will resonate with.   💛 If you’ve ever felt like you are carrying everything… this episode is for you.   👉 Share this with another director who needs to hear: “It’s not just you.”

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    The Director’s Day: The Work No One Sees

    What does a Centre Director actually do all day?   This episode answers that question… honestly.   In this powerful and deeply relatable episode, Leeza walks you through the real, unfiltered reality of a director’s day, from the 5am phone calls, to compliance pressures, to emotional leadership, to the invisible load that is carried every single day.   This episode is for:   • Directors who need to feel seen, validated, and proud • Educators who want to better understand the role • Families who may not realise the responsibility behind the scenes Inside this episode, you’ll hear: • The true start and end of a director’s day • The balance between leadership, compliance, and care • The invisible mental and emotional load directors carry • Why a “smooth day” is actually a sign of strong leadership • A powerful reframe on what it means to be a director   This episode is one to share.   💛 If you’ve ever wondered what your director really does… or you are the director, this is for you.   👉 Send this to your team, your families, or anyone who needs to understand the reality of this role.

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    Are You Actually Ready to Solve It… Or Do You Want to Stay in the Fire?

    You say you’re overwhelmed. You say you’re burnt out. You say you can’t keep going like this…   But when the opportunity comes to do something different… You stay in the fire.   In this bold and honest solo episode, Leeza challenges one of the biggest patterns she is seeing across early childhood leadership right now, directors and owners who are stuck in reactive cycles, constantly putting out fires, even when they are given the tools to step out of them.   This episode dives into:   • Why leaders stay in reactive mode (even when they know better) • The hidden comfort of chaos and “feeling productive” • The difference between managing problems vs solving them • A powerful real-life client story (Katie) and what changed everything • Why leadership requires a different version of you   This is not a comfortable episode. But it is a necessary one.   If you’re ready to stop surviving your role and start leading forward… this one is for you.   💛 Want support to step out of the fire and into leadership? The Directors Academy mid-year intake is opening soon. Keep an eye out for more details.   🎧 Don’t forget to share this episode with another leader who needs to hear it.

  12. 127

    Director file: I refuse to work with her

    Director Files 🎙 Alright… this month’s Director File had me laughing out loud when I read it. Not because it’s funny, but because I know so many directors dealing with this right now. A director wrote in about something she’s calling educator cancel culture. An educator walked into the office and said: “I refuse to work with her.” When the director suggested they talk through the issue, the response was: “Well maybe I should just resign then.” Over a conversation about pack-up. This one opens up a really interesting leadership discussion about: • conflict in teams • resignation threats • the difference between discomfort and psychological safety • and the role of a director when two adults don’t want to work together I unpack the whole situation in today’s Director Files episode.

  13. 126

    The Real Leadership Questions Directors Are Asking Right Now (Q&A Episode)

    Directors & Approved Providers… these questions might feel familiar. Each month inside our Everything Early Childhood community, I ask one simple question: “What leadership situation is sitting in the back of your mind right now?” And the responses are always incredibly honest. This month we unpack questions around: • recruitment and second-guessing decisions • educators doing the bare minimum • feeling responsible for everyone’s emotions • navigating difficult team dynamics • the invisible weight of leadership If you’ve ever had one of those moments where you think… “Is it just me?” This episode is for you. Because leadership in early childhood can feel heavy sometimes. But you’re not alone. And if you want to be part of these conversations, join our Everything Early Childhood Facebook group and submit your questions for next month. Because sometimes just talking it through changes everything. 🩷 Leeza

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    We Want to Do the Right Thing - Let’s Talk About the Changes

    Early childhood leadership comes with significant responsibility, especially when laws and regulations change. In this episode, we unpack the latest updates to early childhood legislation and what they mean for leaders, educators, and approved providers. Regulatory change can feel overwhelming, but strong leadership means staying informed, responsive, and focused on what matters most: children’s safety, wellbeing, and quality outcomes. We explore: - What the regulatory changes involve - Why these updates matter for early learning services - How leaders can support teams through compliance shifts - Turning legal requirements into meaningful practice Doing the right thing isn’t just about meeting compliance, it’s about leading with integrity, clarity, and a commitment to continuous improvement. If you’re a centre director, nominated supervisor, educational leader, or early childhood professional navigating regulatory change, this episode is for you. 🎧 We Want to Do the Right Thing - Let’s Talk About the Changes

  15. 124

    Why leaders struggle to make decisions

    Head vs Heart: Why Leaders Struggle to Make Decisions Is there a decision sitting quietly in the background of your mind right now? In this episode, Leeza unpacks why leaders don’t actually struggle with decisions because they’re unclear, they struggle because they’re uncomfortable. Through the lens of early childhood leadership, we explore: Cognitive dissonance (when your head and heart disagree) Decision fatigue and executive function depletion Loss aversion and fear of regret Emotional avoidance and nervous system regulation Why empathy without structure destabilises teams You’ll learn why unresolved decisions increase cognitive load, drain mental energy, and quietly impact service quality and how to categorise, regulate and move forward with steadiness. This is not about being harsher. It’s about being clearer. If you’re feeling mentally full, circling a conversation, or avoiding a boundary you know needs to be held, this episode will help you understand what’s actually happening beneath the surface. Because if you don’t structure your decisions… they will structure you.

  16. 123

    The 5 Questions Directors Are Asking (But Rarely Say Out Loud)

    There are questions most child care directors carry quietly. Not because they don’t care. Not because they aren’t capable. But because leadership can be lonely — and saying these things out loud can feel risky. In this episode, I’m naming the five questions directors are asking (but rarely say out loud) and unpacking why these questions keep coming up, especially in seasons of pressure, responsibility, and growth. We explore: The unspoken questions that sit beneath day-to-day leadership decisions Why these thoughts are so common among capable, committed directors What these questions are really telling us about support, safety, and sustainability How understanding them changes the way you lead yourself and others This episode isn’t about fixing anything. It’s about normalising the inner dialogue so many directors carry alone. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Is it meant to feel like this?” or “Why does this keep coming up for me?” You’re not failing. You’re human. 🎧 Press play if you want language, clarity, and reassurance, without judgement.

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    What changes when a Director stops carrying everything alone

    There’s a quiet shift that happens when a child care director stops carrying everything alone. Not overnight. Not dramatically. But deeply. In this episode, I’m talking about what actually changes when you stop being the one who holds it all together. The internal shift. The emotional relief. The way leadership starts to feel different in your body. We explore: Why directors end up carrying everything alone (even in supportive environments) What changes inside you when the load is shared How your leadership becomes steadier, clearer, and less reactive Why letting others in doesn’t weaken your role, it strengthens it What becomes possible when you stop surviving and start leading This episode is for the director who feels capable on the outside, but heavy on the inside. The one who keeps going, even when it’s costing her. Because when you stop carrying everything alone, leadership doesn’t fall apart. It evolves. 🎧 Press play if you’re ready to feel the difference. 

  18. 121

    Why confident directors still second guess themselves

    Why confident early childhood directors still second-guess themselves Show Notes One of the most common things I hear from directors; even very capable, experienced ones, is this: “Why do I still doubt myself?” Not loudly. Quietly. Often at the end of a long day. In this episode, we unpack why self-doubt shows up so often in leadership, and why it isn’t a sign that something is wrong with you. Many directors assume confidence should come with experience. That once you’ve been in the role long enough, the second-guessing will stop. But leadership doesn’t work like that. As responsibility grows, uncertainty grows too especially when you’re holding it alone. In this conversation, I explore: why capable leaders often doubt themselves the most the difference between confidence and certainty how people-pleasing and emotional labour quietly erode self-trust why replaying decisions is often a sign of fatigue, not failure. This episode isn’t about fixing self-doubt or giving you confidence tips. It’s about naming what’s really happening so you can stop turning normal leadership strain into personal self-criticism. If you’ve been questioning yourself more than usual lately, this episode is for you. You’re not failing. You’re not behind. And you’re not alone. 

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    The invisble load that directors carry (and why its not just you)

    There’s a part of early childhood leadership that rarely gets named. It’s not the paperwork. It’s not the compliance. And it’s not even the long days. It’s the invisible load. The mental tracking. The emotional holding. The constant decision-making. The responsibility that follows you home, into the shower, and into the quiet moments no one else sees. In this episode, I’m naming something I’ve seen again and again across early childhood services and something I carried myself for years before I realised it wasn’t a personal failure and learnt the techniques and systems to manage it. It was the role. This episode isn’t about fixing you. It’s about helping you understand why the load feels so heavy and why so many capable, committed directors quietly feel exhausted even when “nothing is technically wrong.” In this episode, we explore: What the invisible load actually is (and why it’s different to being busy) Why directors often feel mentally full before the day even begins The responsibility no one trains you for when you step into leadership Why this weight is carried silently and rarely spoken about How understanding the load is the first step to leading with clarity instead of constant overwhelm This conversation is here to say one simple thing: You’re not weak. You’re not failing. And you’re not alone. If you’ve ever wondered why leadership feels heavier than you expected this episode is for you. In the coming episodes, we’ll start unpacking what actually helps lighten this load not through motivation or hustle, but through training, systems, and support that directors were never given in the first place. Leeza Browne - Platinum Education Group - www.platinumed.com.au

  20. 119

    Why I’ve been quiet and why 2026 already feels heavy

    Welcome back to the Everything Early Childhood podcast. This episode is a little different. After a longer pause than planned, I wanted to return gently not with pressure, polish, or pretending everything is fine but with honesty. In this Episode, I share: Why I’ve been quiet over the past couple of months What’s been happening personally behind the scenes Why so many directors and leaders are already feeling exhausted and it’s only January The collective heaviness we’re noticing across the early childhood profession right now And why you don’t have to hold all of this on your own This episode isn’t about fixing anything. It’s about naming what’s real. If you’re a director, leader, or owner who feels like: you’re carrying more than ever, the responsibility feels heavier this year, or you’re doing your best but quietly wondering how sustainable this pace is… You are not alone. This episode marks the beginning of a new season of the podcast one that’s slower, deeper, and more intentional. A season focused on regulated leadership, the invisible load leaders carry, and what it really means to lead well without burning out. Thank you for being here. Thank you for continuing to show up for children, families, and teams, even when it’s heavy. More to come. Learn more If you’d like to explore how we support early childhood directors and leaders through mentoring, community, and practical leadership tools, you can visit us at: 👉 https://www.platinumeducationgroup.com.au Stay connected Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next episode, where we’ll dive into the invisible load directors carry and why it’s so exhausting.

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    10 Leadership tips in 10 years - Lesson 6 - I Don’t Want Them to Hate Me: Leading with care and accountability

    Episode 6: “I Don’t Want Them to Hate Me – Leading With Care and Accountability” Have you ever put off a tough conversation because you didn’t want to hurt someone’s feelings—or worse, have them stop liking you? You’re not alone. In this episode, Leeza Browne unpacks one of the most confronting tensions every leader faces: how to lead with heart without losing accountability. Drawing from her upcoming book The Resilient Leader, Leeza shares: The personal story that taught her why comfort isn’t kindness. The psychology behind why we avoid accountability—and how empathy can become our biggest trap. The hidden costs of avoidance that quietly corrode culture and trust. The Three C’s of Accountable Leadership—Clarity, Consistency & Care. A real client transformation that proves accountability builds respect, not resentment. A short “Try This Tomorrow” challenge to help you put it into action immediately. You’ll also hear a quick science spotlight from Harvard research showing that regular accountability check-ins raise psychological safety by 28 percent—and a simple breathing moment to pause, reflect, and reset your leadership tone. Whether you’re an owner balancing multiple services or a director leading your first team, this conversation will help you trade “nice-boss” habits for the calm confidence of a leader who is both kind and clear.

  22. 117

    10 Leadership lessons from 10 years: Lesson 5 - Letting Go of the Dream – and Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be

    Lesson 5: Letting Go of the Dream — and Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be After a big week attending the ECE Connect event, Leeza reflects on the emotions running through the early childhood profession right now — from funding divides and partial A&R processes to the growing feeling that we all need a more unified voice across preschool, long day care, OOSH, and family day care. In this heartfelt episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza gets personal — sharing how her lifelong dream of owning five early childhood centres transformed into something bigger than she ever imagined. This episode is for every owner, director, and leader who’s ever looked around and thought, “This isn’t how I pictured it.” It’s about the moment we realise that letting go isn’t giving up — it’s growing up. You’ll hear: - Real reflections from the recent ECE Connect event and the sector’s shifting landscape - The story behind Leeza’s five-centre dream and the moment she realised she’d outgrown it - A client transformation story about redefining success after achieving the “dream” - The psychology of identity, comparison, and imposter syndrome in leadership - A light-hearted gym analogy about showing up — even when you feel like you don’t belong - Reflection questions to help you reconnect with your own purpose and evolution Because sometimes, the dream changes. The system shifts. The plans don’t go to plan. And that’s not failure — that’s evolution. Reflection prompts from this episode: What dream or plan no longer fits the person you’re becoming? Where are you comparing your path to someone else’s? What lessons has the journey so far taught you about who you are? Key Quote: “You’re not behind. You’re becoming.” Connect with Leeza: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: @leezabrowne contact: [email protected] Podcast: Everything Early Childhood

  23. 116

    Leadership Lesson 4: Park the Ego - Why great leaders accept support

    Ever wonder why it feels so hard to ask for help — even when you know you need it? In this raw and real episode, Leeza gets honest about control, ego, and why so many early-childhood directors resist accepting support. She shares the psychology behind our need to “do it all,” the illusion of control that keeps us stuck, and her own stories, including the social-media post that took hours to make (and got zero likes 🙃). You’ll learn: ✨ Why letting go feels scary — and what’s really happening in your brain when you try. ✨ The three levels of letting go and how to move through them. ✨ How saying yes to help multiplies your capacity and builds true leadership resilience. This is your permission slip to park the ego, accept support, and finally lead with more ease, trust, and impact.

  24. 115

    Leadership Lesson 3: When everything falls apart

    When everything falls apart — that’s when the real leadership begins. I’ll never forget the day I sat in my car outside the centre, completely numb, thinking: “If I stop, everything stops.” That moment changed everything. It taught me that my business wasn’t a reflection of me — it was a reflection of the strength of my systems. This week on the Everything Early Childhood podcast, I’m sharing: 🧱 the hardest season of my career, ⚙️ what it really means when systems fail, and 🔥 how to rebuild stronger than ever. 🎧 Listen to Episode: When Everything Fell Apart — Building Systems That Help You Rise Stronger 🌿 Join me in person this November at Platinum Ed HQ for our Reflection & Planning Experiences — the space I wish I had when I was rebuilding. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #LeezaBrowne #ResilientLeader #PlatinumEdHQ #ECELeadership #SystemsBreedFreedom #ECECommunity #ChildcareLeaders #WomenInLeadership

  25. 114

    10 Leadership lessons from 10 years: Lesson 2 - You can do anything, but not everything - why do we wait?

    Leadership isn’t a marathon you have to crawl through — but too often, we wait until the health scare, the burnout, or the breakdown before we pause. This week on the Everything Early Childhood podcast, I’m sharing Lesson #2 from my upcoming book The Resilient Leader — the brutal truth about why so many leaders wait until it hurts to take care of themselves, and how we can shift that story. Inside this episode: 💛 The psychology of why we push ourselves past breaking point. 💛 My personal story of “waiting too long” before I listened to my own body. 💛 A client’s turning-point moment that changed how she led her service. 💛 Practical anchors to move, eat, sleep, and lead with intention — before the warning signs arrive. 👉 Tune in, reflect, and ask yourself: Am I leading like I want to last?

  26. 113

    10 Leadership Tips from 10 Years: Tip 1 The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything

    10 Leadership Tips from 10 Years: Tip 1 The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything As Platinum Education turns 10, I’m reflecting on the lessons learnt along the way. And the first one is a biggie: letting go of control. Because here’s the truth — 👉 When you do everything, your staff do nothing. 👉 Control feels safe, but it’s actually the most dangerous trap. 👉 You’re not a real leader until you’ve created other leaders. In this episode, I share the personal story of running my first service, a client story of transformation, and practical accountability measures that will help you let go without lowering standards. 🎧 Tune in for the leadership shift that changes everything.

  27. 112

    Why we rebranded and how to know if its time for you too!

    Why We Rebranded – The Honest Story Behind the Shift and how to know if its time for you too! After nine years, countless services transformed, and a business that’s evolved far beyond where it started, Platinum Education Group has stepped into a whole new chapter. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the real story behind our rebrand the moments that led to it, the challenges along the way, and the meaning behind every detail of our new look. This isn’t just about colours and logos. It’s about alignment, evolution, and stepping boldly into a brand that finally reflects who we are now not who we were when we started. I’m sharing: 💬 The truth bomb from a friend that made me realise I’d outgrown my old brand 🧶 The 6-month branding journey (including concepts that didn’t make the cut) 🎨 The meaning behind the blush pink, navy blue, handwriting, hand, and ball of yarn ✅ 5 signs it might be time for you to rebrand your child care business 🏡 Why this episode is the last one I’ll ever record from my home office — and what’s next for our new HQ and event space Whether you’re a child care business owner, director, or leader, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your own brand, your own growth, and what it might look like to step into your next season. 

  28. 111

    In the thick of it - When leadership breaks you open

    In this deeply personal and unfiltered episode, Leeza invites you behind the curtain of leadership and business—into a raw season of emotional overwhelm, physical exhaustion, and personal growth. Instead of waiting until she’s “through it,” she speaks from the middle of the mess, sharing what it’s like to lead while navigating pain, trauma, and deep internal shifts. This episode is a vulnerable reminder that: You’re not alone when things feel heavy. You don’t need to have it all together to be worthy of support. And real leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. 🔍 In this episode, Leeza explores: The invisible weight leaders carry that no one sees How emotional burnout shows up in the body and heart The default pattern of holding space for others while abandoning ourselves Why it’s so hard to let people in—and what shifts when we do A reframing of strength, humanity, and leadership in the thick of hard seasons 🧠 Reflection Prompts: Where are you carrying invisible weight that no one sees? What would it feel like to stop holding it all on your own? Who could you let in, even just a little, today? 💌 Connect with Leeza: Instagram: @platinumeducationgroup Website: www.platinumed.com.au If this episode resonated... Please share it with a fellow leader who needs a reminder that they’re not alone. And if you feel called, leave a review, it helps others find this space and feel seen too.

  29. 110

    What’s Your Wobbly Chair? — The Small Discomforts We Learn to Live With (Until They Break Us)

    What’s Your Wobbly Chair? — The Small Discomforts We Learn to Live With (Until They Break Us) Host: Leeza Browne | Platinum Education Group Podcast: Everything Early Childhood In this reflective solo episode, Leeza shares a simple but powerful story about a wobbly chair — a metaphor for the things we tolerate in leadership and life until they finally fall apart. You’ll explore why early childhood leaders often live with daily discomforts, how those "wobbly chairs" show up in your service, and why it’s time to stop surviving and start steadying your foundations. This episode includes guided reflection prompts throughout, so you can identify what’s draining your energy, where you’ve been “just managing,” and what small step you can take to shift from tolerating to thriving. 📝 In This Episode, You’ll Reflect On: Why we often tolerate discomfort and avoid change How to spot your personal “wobbly chairs” in leadership What it’s costing you to leave small issues unresolved The danger of waiting until things break before we act How small tweaks can lead to big shifts in your energy and service quality One thing you can fix this week to feel more steady and supported 💬 Journal Prompts from the Episode: What’s one thing you’ve been tolerating in your leadership or service? What’s the cost — to you, your team, or your families — of leaving it unresolved? If nothing changed, what would the worst-case scenario be? 🎯 Want Support? If you’re ready to stop wobbling through leadership and build strong systems, steady teams, and calm days — let’s work together. 💻 Learn more at platinumedgroup.com or DM Leeza on Instagram @platinumeducationgroup 💖 Connect with Leeza: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: leezabrowne_plaitnumed LinkedIn: Leeza Browne

  30. 109

    Child Protection Can’t Wait: What Every Educator Must Know Now

    Child Protection Can’t Wait: What Every Educator Must Know Now with Holly-ann Martin, Founder of Safe4Kids For over 30 years, Holly-ann Martin has been a fearless voice for child protection in Australia. Starting her work back in the 1980s when all she had were magazines and honesty. Holly has witnessed firsthand how the risks to children have evolved. What was once simpler has now become more complex, with the rise of technology, access to pornography, and online predators creating new threats we can’t afford to ignore. In this powerful and timely episode, Holly shares surprising data, real stories, and the practical tools educators need to confidently support the children in their care. This isn’t about fear it’s about being prepared. From language to look-fors, Holly shows us how to embed protective education into daily life in a way that empowers both children and educators. Whether you're a leader, owner, or educator on the floor, this episode will leave you informed, equipped, and called to action because child protection can’t wait.

  31. 108

    Tummy time to Walking with Dr Trevor Carlson

    In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza is joined by Dr. Trevor Carlson, paediatric physiotherapist and founder of Therapy Kids, to explore the foundational stages of infant and toddler movement, from tummy time to crawling, standing, and those incredible first steps. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or carer, Trevor shares practical, down-to-earth guidance to support every child’s physical development confidently and playfully. If you’ve ever wondered when to worry, what to look for, or how to encourage movement in natural and engaging ways, this episode is a must-listen. To find out more about Therapy Kids: www.tummytimetowalking.com [email protected]

  32. 107

    Nurturing Little Wise One's: Mindfulness in Early Childhood with Vicki Scheafer

    In this heart-centered episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza sits down with Vicki Scheafer, founder of Little Wise One, to explore how mindfulness and movement can transform early childhood spaces. Vicki shares her journey from teaching Kinder Dance in her local community to creating affirmation cards, guided journals, and her latest book, A Mindful Child, supporting educators and families to help children feel seen, heard, worthy, and loved. Together, we explore: ✨ Why mindfulness and movement are powerful tools for young children. ✨ Simple ways educators can integrate mindful moments into busy days. ✨ The importance of nurturing emotional intelligence and resilience in children. ✨ Practical tips for bringing calm, connection, and presence into your classrooms. ✨ Stories of the incredible impact mindfulness can have on a child’s wellbeing. Vicki’s warmth and wisdom will leave you feeling inspired to hold space for the little wise ones in your care and to embrace mindfulness in your own daily practice.

  33. 106

    How to handle the emotional rollercoaster of Early Childhood Leadership

    In this heartfelt solo episode, Leeza answers a powerful question submitted by one of our listeners: "How do you deal with the emotional rollercoaster of leadership in early childhood?" Let’s face it—leading in early childhood education isn’t just about policies, procedures, or planning cycles. It’s about people. And that means navigating daily emotional highs and lows that no leadership course can truly prepare you for. In this episode, Leeza shares 5 practical, real-life strategies she uses to stay grounded, present, and emotionally regulated—even on the toughest days. You'll hear: What causes emotional overwhelm in ECE leadership How to protect your energy while still being a supportive leader Simple mindset shifts that make a big difference Tools to help you respond, not react, in high-pressure moments Encouragement if you're feeling tired, torn, or tapped out Whether you’re a centre director, educational leader, or aspiring owner—this episode is for every leader who carries the emotional weight of the team and the children they serve. 🎧 Tune in now and give yourself permission to be human, while leading with heart and consistency.

  34. 105

    EOFY Planning - Let’s Talk Numbers in our Early Childhood Business

    In this episode, Leeza breaks down what every child care owner needs to know before June 30 — from the Worker Retention Payment and upcoming wage increases, to how to financially prepare your service for the year ahead. You’ll get: Clarity on the WRP deadlines and what to action now A real talk on what this funding really means for your business An EOFY checklist to get your finances sorted Tips to lead with both your head and heart in tough financial times Plus, Leeza shares what’s (still) unknown about 2026 and why knowing your numbers is knowing your future.

  35. 104

    Unlocking Literacy Through Movement with Stefanie Hohl

    In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza Browne is joined by educator and author Stefanie Hohl, creator of ABC See, Hear, Do. A phonics program that integrates movement and play to help children learn to read. Designed for early learning professionals and parents, this episode explores how multi-sensory, movement-based approaches can better support young learners especially those who don’t thrive with traditional, sit-down methods. Together, Leeza and Stefanie unpack: What multi-sensory learning really looks like in action Why movement matters in early literacy development How to support children who are reluctant, disengaged, or always on the move What educators should stop doing when it comes to teaching reading How to foster confidence, joy, and curiosity through intentional literacy practices Whether you're an educational leader, director, or educator on the floor, this episode will shift the way you think about early reading and offer practical, child-led strategies that you can bring into your programs right away. 🎧 Tune in and let’s reimagine literacy—through the lens of movement, connection, and fun. 🌐 Learn more: abcseeheardo.com Follow Stefanie: @abcseeheardo

  36. 103

    The moment that changed everything: my imperfect origin story

    Five years ago, I stood in a hotel room, teary-eyed, heart racing, with a phone in my hand and finally shared the story I’d never said out loud. The truth behind why I do what I do. That moment, recorded in raw emotion after a breakthrough at a business event, changed everything. It was the first time I let myself be seen and truly shared my why. Until now, that video stayed hidden. But today, I’m sharing it with you. Because I know what it feels like to question your voice, to feel like you need to be perfect before you can lead, and to wonder if anyone else has felt the same. This episode is for the educator, the director, the owner, the human who is tired of hiding behind the scenes and is ready to reconnect with what matters most. Let this be your reminder that: You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Your story is powerful, even if it’s messy. Progress will always matter more than perfection. So here it is the moment that changed everything for me. Maybe it’s the nudge you need for your next one.

  37. 102

    Is It Time to Sell? How to Know, Prepare, and Let Go with Grace

    Is It Time to Sell? How to Know, Prepare, and Let Go with Grace Synopsis: In this heartfelt solo episode, Leeza Browne, founder of Platinum Education Group and trusted advisor to child care owners across Australia, opens up about one of the most difficult and emotional decisions in business: knowing when it’s time to sell your child care service. If you’ve found yourself whispering “Maybe I should just sell…”, this episode is for you. Leeza shares the signs it might be time to step away, the psychology behind why we default to that thought in tough seasons, and what the real process of preparing your service for sale looks like — emotionally and practically. She also vulnerably shares her own story of making the decision to sell her beloved service while growing Platinum Education Group, and how that moment became a turning point in both her purpose and legacy. 💡 Inside this episode: • How to know when it’s time to sell • Why “I just want to sell” is often a cry for relief • Leeza’s personal experience making the decision • What buyers are looking for and the 12-month prep window • What to do if selling isn’t the answer — but something still needs to change Whether you’re considering selling, shifting, or simply feeling stuck — you’re not alone. There is another way, and this episode will help you start exploring what’s next, with heart and clarity. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this. 📩 Want to talk it through? DM Leeza @platinumeducationgroup

  38. 101

    The Things We’re All Thinking… But No One’s Saying

    🌿 NEW EPISODE – For the Ones Who Are Holding It All Together (Even When It Feels Like It’s Falling Apart) If you’ve ever sat in your car before a shift, taken a deep breath, and thought, *“I don’t know if I can do this today”… this one’s for you. 💔 This week on the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, we’re saying the things no one wants to admit out loud — the thoughts, doubts, and silent struggles that so many directors and child care owners carry in their hearts. 🎙 Episode: “The Things We’re All Thinking… But No One’s Saying” Inside, we unpack: ✨ Why shame keeps us silent ✨ The real thoughts you're not alone in having ✨ The myth of “having it all together” ✨ What to do when you're questioning it all ✨ And a gentle reminder: you’re not broken — you’re just human. You are allowed to feel overwhelmed. You are allowed to question. You are allowed to need a moment to breathe. And you are still enough — more than enough. 💛 If your heart needs a soft place to land today, come and join me for this raw, honest, soul-nourishing episode. Tag a leader who needs this reminder. You don’t have to do it all alone. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #HeartLedLeadership #ChildCareDirector #RealTalk #EarlyLearning #ECELeader #BurnoutRecovery #YouAreNotAlone #ECEPodcast #LeadershipWithHeart #ImperfectAndPowerful

  39. 100

    Tired, Wired, and Burnt Out? Let’s Talk About Wellbeing in ECE with Phil Wolffe

    Feeling constantly exhausted, emotionally drained, or like rest just isn’t doing the job anymore? You’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to be this way. In this powerful episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza is joined by Phil Wolffe, Workplace Wellbeing Specialist and Founder of Kinex Health, to unpack what’s really going on in our early childhood workplaces when it comes to stress, burnout, and recovery. Together, they explore: The current state of wellbeing in early learning services The difference between stress and burnout, and why it matters Why taking time off often leads to guilt—and how to flip that mindset The science behind recovery and what your body and brain truly need Practical steps leaders and educators can take today to create healthier, more sustainable environments Whether you're a centre owner, director, or educator, this episode will help you reframe what wellbeing really means and how we can do better—for ourselves and our teams. 💼 Connect with Phil Wolffe: 🌐 Website: www.kinexhealth.com.au 📧 Email: [email protected] 🔗 LinkedIn: Phil Wolffe

  40. 99

    To the leader who feels guilty resting...

    In this honest and unscripted mini episode, recorded mid-safari during a much-needed break, Leeza opens up about the internal struggle many leaders face: the guilt of resting. She shares personal stories from her leadership journey, the burnout she faced when she gave too much of herself, and the powerful mindset shifts that have helped her redefine consistency, success, and boundaries. If you’re a passionate business owner, director, or educator who’s been pushing through, this episode is your permission to pause, reconnect with your why, and remember that rest is part of the work — not a reward for it. In this episode, Leeza explores: The personal struggle of setting boundaries (even on holiday) Why rest is essential to sustainable leadership Questions to ask yourself when you feel pulled in too many directions How to reconnect with your purpose when you feel overwhelmed Let’s connect: Instagram: @platinumedgroup Website: www.platinumed.com.au Email: [email protected]

  41. 98

    Why Bother Aiming for Exceeding?

    Why Bother Aiming for Exceeding? In this powerful follow-up episode, Leeza Browne opens up the conversation around striving for Exceeding in early childhood services—and why giving up on high standards comes at a cost we can’t afford. You’ll hear real feedback from the community, honest reflections about where educators and leaders are really at, and practical strategies for getting your team on board the journey toward quality. This episode dives into: Why Exceeding isn’t about perfection—it’s about purpose What the NQS ratings really mean (and how to explain them clearly) How to train and inspire your team when they’re unsure or overwhelmed Why standards matter, and who we’re really doing this for What to do when your team has never seen another service Plus, Leeza shares a moment from the floor that reminded her just how important it is to meet people where they’re at, and help them see what exceeding looks like. Connect with Leeza Browne: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: @platinumeducationgroup LinkedIn: Leeza Browne Email: [email protected] If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone in your early childhood circle. Let’s raise the bar, together.

  42. 97

    Beyond Behaviour: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Early Learning with Kerra-Lee Wescombe

    In this powerful episode, host Leeza Browne from Platinum Ed is joined by the incredible Kerra-Lee Wescombe, Director of Connect.Ed, to explore the critical role of trauma-informed practice in early childhood education. With over 10 years of experience across therapeutic care, consulting, and professional development, Kerra-Lee shares why connection—not control—is key to supporting children’s development and wellbeing. We unpack the staggering statistic that 2 in 3 children experience trauma before the age of five, and what this means for educators and early learning environments. We also dive into: What trauma-informed practice really looks like in early childhood Why behaviourism often misses the mark How services can access support and training The power of body-based strategies to support regulation And why educators should never feel like they have to do it alone Whether you're a centre director, educator, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge your thinking, uplift your spirit, and leave you with practical insights to create safer, more connected spaces for children to thrive.

  43. 96

    Beyond the Headlines: A Call to Action for Early Childhood Education

    The Four Corners episode Betrayal of Trust – Child Care in Crisis has once again put early childhood education under the microscope. While it revealed serious failures that demand accountability, it also painted an incomplete and fear-driven picture of our sector. In this powerful and solution-focused episode, I address: ✅ What the Four Corners episode got right—and what was missing. ✅ The public release of compliance reports (Standing Order 52) and why it’s concerning. ✅ How services can respond to increased scrutiny and protect their educators. ✅ The real issue—training & workforce conditions—and why fixing this is the key to real change. ✅ How we take back the narrative by sharing stories of the incredible educators who go above and beyond. Now, more than ever, we need to stand up for children, educators, and the future of early childhood education. If we don’t tell our story, someone else will—and we can’t afford to let fear define our profession. Let’s talk solutions. Let’s advocate for change. Let’s remind the world why early childhood education matters.

  44. 95

    Emptying the sandpit: Setting up systems for a strong start

    In this episode we explore the powerful analogy of "emptying the sandpit" and how it applies to setting up strong systems and structures in your service. Just like refreshing the sandpit create a clean foundation for play, resetting expectations, re-inducting staff and reinforcing key knowledge helps teams start fresh and aligned. we'll cover: - why assuming everyone knows nothing (even seasoned educators) sets the team up for success - the importance of re-inductions and refreshing the team knowledge - Strategies for embedding training and retaining information - Practical steps to ensure systems and processes stay strong throughout the year Tune in to discover how you can refresh, realign and build a strong foundation for your teams success!

  45. 94

    Transforming challenges into change with Ray Everest co-owner future focus NZ

    🎙 Everything Early Childhood Podcast – Featuring Ray Everest 🚀 Deep Dive into Early Childhood Business, Success & Advocacy In this powerful episode, I sit down with Ray Everest, co-founder of Future Focus in New Zealand, for an eye-opening conversation on the future of early childhood education. Ray brings a unique perspective with his background as a high school teacher, principal, and early learning centre owner. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges and transformations in children over the years, he’s now leading the charge to unite early childhood services and provide critical support for early intervention. What can we do to make a real impact? 🌱 Listen in as we explore: 🔹 The business of early childhood and setting up for success 🔹 How manifestation plays a role in leadership and growth 🔹 The advocacy movement that’s reshaping support for early childhood services 🔹 The power of uniting services for better outcomes for children 💡 Watch this space—if anyone is leading the charge, be thankful it’s Ray! 🎧 Tune in now! This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about making a lasting difference in early childhood education. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #FutureFocus #EarlyChildhoodAdvocacy #ChildhoodSuccess #Manifestation #EarlyIntervention #Leadership

  46. 93

    Farewell, Jake: The Final Chapter with Platinum Ed

    Jake’s departure marks a turning point, and this episode captures the highs, lows, and everything in between in his Journey at Platinum Education. Tune in for an unfiltered discussion about the spirit of authenticity, the lessons learned, and how child care leaders can embrace change with grace and growth.

  47. 92

    The Educational Leader's Role: From Complexity to Clarity

    In this enlightening episode, we delve into the core of educational leadership in early childhood education. We unpack the essential role of the educational leader within early childhood services, exploring how to simplify educational practices and the learning cycle for greater impact. Facing challenges like overcomplicated systems and lack of support? Discover practical strategies to create simple, meaningful, and high-quality educational programs. Learn how to effectively communicate your educational approach to parents and stakeholders, foster a collaborative team environment, and engage with the community. Whether you're an early childhood owner, leader, or educator, this episode is packed with insights to empower you in your role and enhance professional development in the field of early childhood education.

  48. 91

    Wish it, Dream it, Do it! - The Loving Start way with Ms. Amber Jayne

    In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, we’re thrilled to welcome Amber Jayne, early childhood education expert, founder of The Loving Start Learning Centres, and creator of The Loving Start Way Community. Amber takes us through her incredible journey from a child care business owner to a global advocate for nurturing, empowering, and elevating early childhood services. She shares the highs, lows, and pivotal lessons she’s learned along the way, revealing the trials and tribulations that shaped her unique, love-centered approach. Tune in to hear Amber’s inspiring story, her vision for the future of early childhood education, and practical insights on how to create meaningful, heartfelt connections with children, families, and educators. Whether you’re an early childhood professional, parent, or just curious about the journey, this episode is filled with wisdom and warmth you won’t want to miss!To find out more about Amber - www.thelovingstartway.com

  49. 90

    Magic of Creative sound play in EC education with composer Hayes Greenfield

    In this podcast episode, we chat with Hayes Greenfield, author of Creative Sound Play for Young Learners, about the powerful role sound can play in early childhood education. Hayes shares practical ways to use creative sound play during transitions, enhancing classroom communities, social-emotional learning, and executive function skills. We also explore inspiring stories of how sound breaks down barriers and unleashes creativity in children, highlighting the magic of sound and its benefits for their development as well as sharing his story about how he got into teaching music and the many wonderful projects he has been part of. This episode is filled with actionable ideas to enrich your teaching toolkit. One not to miss!

  50. 89

    Inside Our Roles in Early Childhood

    In this episode of "Inside our roles in Early Childhood," we take a closer look at the various roles within a child care setting and explore the unique responsibilities that each one entails. From the operations manager to the trainee, every position is essential in creating a nurturing, safe, and effective environment for young learners. Using the analogy of a living, breathing body, we break down how each role functions like a vital organ, working in harmony to ensure the overall health and success of the center. Whether you’re a seasoned director, a passionate educator, or new to the field, this episode will help you understand the importance of your role, the impact you make, and how every contribution supports the growth and development of the children in your care. Join us as we simplify the complexities of child care roles and celebrate the many hats we wear to make a difference in early childhood education.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, designed for Approved Providers, Nominated Supervisors and other child care business leaders. This fun, light-hearted and very serious podcast features weekly episodes on strategy, advice and conversations with fascinating and inspiring people from across our sector. Join the journey and have access to the tools and inspiration you need to create high performing child care businesses.

HOSTED BY

Leeza Browne

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Everything Early Childhood have?

Everything Early Childhood currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Everything Early Childhood about?

Welcome to the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, designed for Approved Providers, Nominated Supervisors and other child care business leaders. This fun, light-hearted and very serious podcast features weekly episodes on strategy, advice and conversations with fascinating and inspiring people from...

How often does Everything Early Childhood release new episodes?

Everything Early Childhood has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Everything Early Childhood?

You can listen to Everything Early Childhood on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Everything Early Childhood?

Everything Early Childhood is created and hosted by Leeza Browne.
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