The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

Send us Fan MailYou can be the best boss someone has ever had, support a family for years, extend grace, make exceptions, and genuinely care—and still become the “bad guy” the moment someone does not get what they want.In this honest episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica talks about one of the hardest parts of leadership: being criticized by employees, families, or community members who were once some of your strongest advocates. She shares how to process the hurt without reacting emotionally, separate facts from feelings, protect your program’s reputation, maintain professional boundaries, and keep leading with integrity.You may not be able to control what people say about you, but you can control how you respond, what you learn, and how you continue moving forward.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailOne of the biggest mistakes leaders make is assuming everyone on their team needs the same kind of leadership. They don’t.In this episode, we’re talking about why strong leadership means knowing your people well enough to understand when they need direction, encouragement, accountability, space, support, or simply a little more trust. Your standards can stay consistent while your leadership approach changes based on the person in front of you.We’ll also talk about the employees we sometimes overlook—the strong ones who seem to have everything handled—and why they still need leadership, recognition, and opportunities to grow.And before the episode ends, I’m inviting you to join us this Wednesday, September 16th, for the Early Education Empowerment Conference, a live virtual summit featuring an incredible lineup of early childhood leaders and speakers. You can attend live for free or upgrade for $97 to receive recordings, downloads, and VIP giveaways. The registration link is in the show notes.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailSchool-age children need more than supervision, snacks, homework help, and activities. They need connection, belonging, respect, and adults who truly see them.In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica talks directly to school-age directors and teachers about how relationship-building looks different with older children than it does in preschool. She explores why belonging matters so deeply during the school-age years, how our energy impacts children, and why simply saying “welcome” is not the same as making a child feel known.Erica also challenges school-age teams to think differently about engagement. When a child says, “I don’t want to do anything,” does that really mean they are not interested, or have we just not discovered what they care about yet?This conversation looks at empathy, respect, autonomy, reciprocal relationships, and the importance of giving school-age children a voice in how they spend their time. Most importantly, it asks every educator one question: How are you showing up for the children who walk through your doors every day?Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailThe quiet advantage in childcare ownership is not scale—it is fit. A director in Atlanta shares how she built a center around real demand, a homey culture, and the kind of trust families feel the moment they walk in. Erica Saccoccio catches up live at the ECE Pep Rally with a six-year childcare professional who bet on herself during COVID, opened a program for 25 children, and then expanded into a second shift when she saw a gap in her community. What starts as a simple Director’s Chair conversation turns into a sharp look at what it actually takes to run a center that works for families, staff, and the owner. You’ll hear how she thinks about serving working parents, why her favorite age group is pre-K, and how a smaller, converted-home center can create the kind of connection families keep coming back for. She also shares how she builds trust with parents, why being active and present matters, and what makes a program feel personal instead of transactional. Erica also digs into the hard realities of ownership: pricing in a market where you’re competing with free care, using security cameras, balancing day-shift and after-school care, and leading a team like they are your own family. If you’re an early childhood owner, director, or aspiring program leader, this episode gives you a grounded look at what happens when purpose meets practical leadership. It is especially valuable if you’re trying to grow without losing the family feel that makes families trust you in the first place.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailMiranda Moore on the child care policies that protect your business, your staff, and your sanity If you are a child care owner who is ready to grow but knows you need stronger systems first, Miranda Moore delivers the mindset shift that can save you from expensive mistakes. She explains why running a center with your heart alone is not enough, and why standing on your policies is the difference between a smooth operation and constant chaos. Miranda runs a small center in Valdosta, Georgia, serving about 18 children with a 23-child capacity, and she brings the perspective of an owner who is building carefully, not recklessly. She shares what she is focused on before expanding, including staffing, leadership, and the foundation every new owner needs if they want to scale without losing control. You'll discover why Miranda believes great leadership starts with modeling the behavior you expect, how she builds trust with families through open communication and community connection, and why she treats policies as a non-negotiable rather than a suggestion. She also breaks down practical systems that still work in the real world, including her binder-based organization method, monthly safety routines, and the family events and date nights that keep parent relationships strong. Miranda also gets honest about modern child care risks, especially the pressure of cameras and social media. She explains why not every incident looks the way it appears on video, why constant surveillance can damage trust with staff, and why protecting privacy matters just as much as transparency. Her perspective is a timely reminder that what happens in child care settings is often more nuanced than a clip online can show. This conversation is especially valuable if you are opening a child care business, trying to tighten your policies, or working to build a center that lasts. Miranda also speaks to the pride of carrying a three-generation child care legacy and building something small that is making a big impact in her community. Strong, practical, and grounded in real ownership experience, this episode is a must-listen for child care providers who want to lead with purpose, protect their program, and grow with confidence.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailLeasing can look cheaper on paper, but in child care real estate, the wrong move can cost you your business. Todd Harris, known as the Nursery Navigator, breaks down how directors and owners can protect their centers, negotiate smarter, and build real long-term value instead of pouring money into someone else’s building. Todd is a child care real estate specialist, broker, and owner who has opened multiple centers himself. He explains the real tradeoffs between leasing and owning, including when a lease gives you flexibility, when ownership gives you control, and why the most expensive mistake is signing a deal without understanding what’s at stake. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why tenant improvement allowances can help cover major expenses like HVAC, plumbing, fire systems, and other buildout costs The differences between a turnkey space, an empty turnkey, and a going operation How to evaluate culture, standards, and parent expectations when taking over an existing child care business Why a lease can become vulnerable when a stronger buyer makes an offer to the property owner How ownership can help you control your business’s future and build generational wealth What Todd learned from owning and leasing multiple child care properties Todd also shares candid lessons from operating large-scale centers, enforcing professional standards, and building a child care portfolio in Tennessee with his wife, Dr. Daphne Booker Harris. Whether you’re opening your first center, expanding your current operation, or considering a property purchase, this conversation offers valuable insight before you sign your next lease or mortgage.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailChange is one of the hardest parts of leadership, especially when you care deeply about your program, your team, and the families you serve. Staff leave. Families move on. Children transition to new classrooms. Plans you thought were solid suddenly shift, and sometimes those changes can leave you feeling hurt, disappointed, frustrated, or even angry.In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica has a real conversation about what it means to lead when things do not go the way you hoped. We talk about allowing yourself to feel the emotions that come with change while also asking an important leadership question: What can I learn from this, and how do I move forward?As directors, we will not always make decisions that everyone agrees with. Our responsibility is to make the best decisions we can with the information we have, while staying grounded in our policies, regulations, responsibilities, and core values.Nothing in this field stays the same forever. Teams change. Families change. Children grow. Programs evolve. The goal is not to avoid change. The goal is to become the kind of leader who can learn from it, grow through it, and keep moving forward.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIf you’re waiting to feel confident before you lead, this episode is your wake-up call. Erica Saccoccio breaks down why confidence in childcare leadership is built through action, not personality, and how John Maxwell’s leadership principles can help you become a stronger director right now. For childcare directors who are juggling staff conflict, licensing stress, enrollment pressure, hard conversations, and the daily weight of keeping a center running, this conversation hits exactly where it matters. Erica connects real-world early childhood leadership challenges to practical mindset shifts you can use immediately. You’ll hear how the law of the lid can expose the hidden limits in your center, why “I’m not good at that yet” is a more powerful leadership mindset than “I can’t,” and how growth becomes evidence that you can handle more than you thought. Erica also unpacks why influence matters more than title, how adding value to your team builds your confidence, and why strong directors stop trying to be liked by everyone and start leading from clear values.  Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Childcare Directors Chair, Erica makes the case that many childcare centers don’t need another policy, memo, or handbook update—they need clearer leadership. She explains the difference between managing people with rules and leading with expectations, relationships, coaching, and accountability. Erica walks through why repeated problems often point to unclear standards, weak follow-through, or avoided conversations, not a missing rule. She shares practical examples from childcare settings, including attendance, uniforms, cell phones, classroom cleanliness, and staff communication, to show how leaders can address the real issue instead of adding blanket policies that punish the whole team. If you’re a childcare director tired of sending reminders that don’t change behavior, this episode will help you think differently about culture, accountability, and staff development. Learn how to model expectations, coach your team, and build a center where people know what to do even when you’re not in the room.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailFamily child care is not babysitting, and this conversation makes that impossible to ignore. Erica Saccoccio and Dacia Dumas unpack how home-based providers can lead with warmth and operate like the professionals and business owners they are, without apologizing for policies, tuition, or boundaries. Erica opens with the reality so many providers live every day: families may come through your door because of the love and personal connection, but that does not mean your program runs on chaos or goodwill alone. Dacia, known as Coach D, brings 22 years of family child care experience and shares how she went from seeing child care as a passion to realizing it was a business that needed structure, standards, and a stronger professional identity. You’ll discover why a strong parent handbook can transform difficult conversations, how to set boundaries around late arrivals and communication, the difference between being homey and being unprofessional, and why branding, environment, and language shape how parents value your program. If you’re a family child care provider who feels overextended, underpaid, or misunderstood, this episode is a reset. It’s a reminder that your program is a licensed learning environment, your work is essential, and your standards deserve respect.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailLouisiana family child care providers are leaving money, support, and growth opportunities on the table - and Cierra Amar shows you exactly how to stop. If you run a home-based program, this conversation breaks down the licensing, registration, CCAP, academic approval, and tax credit pathways that can turn a small operation into a high-quality business with real funding behind it. Erica Saccoccio and Cierra Amar unpack what it actually takes to grow a family child care home in Louisiana, from the difference between being registered and licensed to the steps that unlock state inspections, background checks, trainings, and referrals. Cierra explains how providers can move through the system without getting overwhelmed, and why the right credentials can open doors to grant funding, coaching, toy giveaways, professional development, and reimbursement streams many providers never realize they qualify for.You’ll discover: Why Louisiana providers should ask "what level of approval fits my business?" instead of "do I need to be licensed?" How CCAP certification connects to funding, required trainings, and serving more families What academic approval is and how it can lead to coaching, observation, CDA support, and the school readiness tax credit How childcare where, military-related care, VA, hospital, and private-sector partnerships create new enrollment opportunities Why research, networking, and NAFCC membership matter if you want to lead at a higher level Sierra also shares the real-world impact of Louisiana’s ecosystem for family child care, including how CCR&R support, Louisiana Pathways, and state-level partnerships can help providers become stronger, more compliant, and more visible to families and employers. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to build a high-quality home program with more than just private pay, this episode gives you the map.Essential listening for family child care owners, home-based providers, and anyone trying to understand how licensing, quality, and funding connect. If you’re in Louisiana, or you want to replicate this model in your own state, this one is packed with practical next steps.Erica Saccoccio hosts The Childcare Directors Chair Podcast. Cierra Amar is the Louisiana State Representative for the National Association of Family Child Care and CEO of Intelligent Kid Minds and Intelligent Geographic, where she supports home-based providers and multicultural curriculum.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Child Care Directors Chair, Erica sits down with Sheika Petteway to break down the HR side of childcare leadership. They discuss what actually falls under HR in an early childhood program, the most common documentation and compliance mistakes, how SOPs can protect your team, and when it’s time to bring in an HR specialist. If you’re an owner or director trying to balance operations, compliance, and the day-to-day needs of your staff, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you build stronger systems and avoid costly problems.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you’ve poured your heart into teaching, built relationships with children and families, and then suddenly hear the words: “Your contract will not be renewed”?In this episode, I sit down with Stephanie Panico for an important conversation about something we do not talk about enough in education: what it feels like to be a teacher who is not renewed and what comes next.We talk about the emotional side of non-renewal, how quickly it can shake your confidence, and why one decision does not define your ability as an educator. Stephanie shares her experience, the lessons she learned, and how she moved forward when the path she expected suddenly changed.We also look at this conversation through the leadership lens. How should leaders handle non-renewals professionally and compassionately? Are we giving employees enough feedback before making these decisions? Have expectations been clearly communicated? And when someone is not the right fit for one program, could they still be an incredible educator in a different environment?This episode is for the teacher wondering, “What do I do now?” and for the leader who has ever had to make a difficult staffing decision. Sometimes a closed door is not the end of your story. It may be the moment that pushes you toward the place where you are supposed to grow next.To connect Stephine on IG (5) InstagramMembership Group Underdog 2 UnstoppableSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailFor years, child care leaders have been trying to recover from staff turnover, burnout, constant hiring, and the disruption that changed so many programs after COVID. Maybe you had a dream team once. Maybe your center ran with a rhythm that felt easier, stronger, and more connected. But what if the goal is not to get that old team back?What if this is your opportunity to build something even better?In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica talks about what it really takes to rebuild a child care program for the season you are in now. We are talking about culture, intentional hiring, stronger onboarding, leadership development, classroom quality, family relationships, and the systems that may have fallen apart while you were simply trying to survive.This conversation is for the leader who is ready to stop patching holes, stop comparing today’s team to the one they had years ago, and start intentionally creating a program where great educators want to come, grow, lead, and stay.Your best team may not be behind you. It may be the one you are building right now.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when early childhood professionals stop working in silos and start building stronger connections across classrooms, programs, and professional associations?In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio sits down with Carolyn Bobby Green for a conversation about leadership, professional growth, mentorship, and the power of staying connected in early childhood education.Carolyn shares why great training needs follow-through, how mentorship helps educators grow after the workshop ends, and why professional associations play such an important role in helping teachers, directors, and owners feel supported instead of isolated.They also discuss what leaders can learn from classroom educators, why toddler teachers often understand behavior in ways others may miss, and how tools such as video, feedback, and emerging AI technology can support stronger coaching and staff development.If you are an early childhood teacher, director, owner, or emerging leader looking to strengthen your team, build meaningful professional connections, and continue growing as a leader, this episode is for you.Learn more at www.childcaredirectorschair.com.Learn more about out guest:InstagramTraining U To Succeed™ — Get your sparkle backSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio sits down with Danni Christine, who shares her journey from assistant teacher to home daycare owner to operating four childcare centers in New York.Danni opens up about the leadership lessons that shaped her growth, including why relationships should come before correction, how to build a leadership team you can trust, and why owners have to stop trying to do everything themselves.You’ll also hear how she uses YouTube, SEO, and intentional marketing to reach families, along with the systems she relies on to manage multiple locations and more than 60 team members.In this episode, you’ll learn:How strong leadership supports childcare business growthWhy relationships matter before coaching and correctingHow to work successfully with family in businessWhy clear roles and responsibilities are essentialHow YouTube and SEO can help families find your programHow to grow without sacrificing qualityWhy building leaders is one of the most important parts of expansionIf you are a childcare owner, director, aspiring owner, or early childhood leader looking to grow your program and strengthen your team, this conversation is filled with practical leadership lessons you can use right away.Learn more and join the ECE Leadership Trailblazers Membership Group at www.childcaredirectorschair.com. To learn more about our guest: (6) InstagramAbout Us | ChildCareSites.com(6) Instagram#ChildcareLeadership #ChildcareBusiness #ECELeadership #DaycareOwner #EarlyChildhoodEducationSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Child Care Directors Chair, Erica Saccoccio sits down with Shelbra McKnight to unpack one of the biggest challenges in child care ownership: how to stop building yourself a job and start building a true business. Shelbra shares how systems, leadership development, and a CEO mindset can help child care owners step out of the daily fires and create more freedom, profit, and legacy.They talk about the difference between being needed and being effective, why strong systems matter before stepping back from operations, and how to identify leaders who can carry responsibility. Shelbra also shares honest insight on scaling, the hidden costs of multiple locations, and why sometimes one strong center is better than several stretched-thin ones.If you’ve ever felt like your center can’t run without you, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger about your time, your business, and your future. To grab your tickets to the ECE Pep Rally: themcknightmastery.com/homeecepeprallySupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Childcare Directors Chair, Erica sits down with Julie Amy to explore why great childcare is about much more than getting through the day. Julie shares how her “Best Day Ever” framework helps leaders build sustainable programs rooted in consistency, strong relationships, and intentional systems that support children, educators, and families alike.Together, they dig into why childcare is a vital part of workforce and community infrastructure, how culture is built through daily practices, and what it really takes to create environments where people want to stay and grow. From staff retention to family trust to leadership development, this conversation is packed with practical insight and heartfelt encouragement for childcare leaders who want to create lasting impact.To learn more about Julie visit her website at About Julie Amy - Julie Amy WebsiteSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailEvery year, this small group of educators comes back to the mic for a Power Hour conversation about leadership, play, growth, and the evolving journey of the educator.This year, the conversation goes even deeper. Carla Ward, Kate Woodward Young, Jamie Wagler, Sueie Beghin, Laura Shea, Adva Hanan, and Melysa Mei share what happened when they allowed their work in education to grow beyond the classroom. From stages to pages, these women have written books, launched and expanded businesses, stepped away from teaching positions, built new platforms, and created opportunities they once never imagined possible.They talk openly about the risks, the pivots, the lessons, and the moments that pushed them to ask, What else could this become? Their stories are a reminder that being an educator does not have to mean staying in one role, one classroom, or one version of your career.If you’re feeling the pull toward something more—whether that means starting a business, writing the book, sharing your voice, stepping into leadership, or simply exploring what might be next—this Power Hour is filled with inspiration and possibility for your next chapter in education.To learn more about Erica and our guests head on over to IG and give them a follow:Kate Woodward Young InstagramCarla Ward (3) InstagramJamie Wagler (3) InstagramSusie Beghin (3) InstagramLaura Shea (3) InstagramAdva Hanan (3) InstagramMelysa Mei (3) InstagramErica Saccoccio (3) InstagramSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the opportunity you’ve been waiting for is one you’re supposed to create?In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica sits down with Shemeka Maddox for an energizing conversation about confidence, telling your story, building your brand, and using your voice beyond the four walls of your program.Shemeka shares how she moved from surviving to building legacy, why your experience has value, and why educators need to stop waiting for permission to step into bigger rooms. We also talk social media, creating content, choosing the right platforms, and showing up authentically in a very noisy online world.If you’ve ever wondered, “Who am I to speak, teach, post, or share my story?” this episode is your reminder: your voice matters, your story matters, and someone needs to hear it.Connect with Shemeka MaddoxWebsite: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flearn.webuildlegacybrands.com%2Fccc-live%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio%26fbclid%3DPAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAaexNmjlRe74L5NkM41fq7sdGE22SeDb4hek3KjQbAzspDBXodmAREpLUkuM7Q_aem_WIM6BdbKuEc5E8Sf1o5nUg&e=AUBydhpktmzmHetZgS7VzJjrE90_3G6sLUkTLVXVfZ2-sYfxJtMFzV9bPe0yKG1mHp0tOJjqDhLR10hOA_FqduP6H-GvHHZtrNY9EOLnqCw3eeolyJlkOdmtZoWXJoBo1-ETJBJxiH-TC0gNrDIP0tUInstagram: @webuildlegacybrandsCome Join Us in Atlanta!Erica and the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast will be at the ECE Pep Rally this September in Atlanta, Georgia!Tickets: themcknightmastery.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAadquQYUSBch7C7F_rlWRA3Bvva0HaufQmqYuwfBgoqgRAUYqliky47Bzm2pqw_aem_4S4MO6I_GakD-edF4qgvzwAnd listen all the way to the end of the episode for a special discount code available TODAY ONLY when you purchase your ECE Pep Rally ticket!Tell your story. Use your voice. Create the opportunity.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when we stop treating play as something only children need?In this engaging and energizing conversation, Erica Saccoccio sits down with Anthony Toombs of the Life is Good Playmaker Project to talk about where early childhood education is right now, where we are headed, and why joy, connection, and play are critical to the future of our field.Anthony shares his journey, the work he is doing with educators across the country, and why creating space, opportunity, and meaningful pathways for more men in early childhood education matters. Together, Erica and Anthony explore what happens when educators reconnect with the parts of themselves that laugh, move, create, take risks, build relationships, and actually enjoy the work again.This conversation is about more than having fun. It is about leadership, belonging, representation, culture, and creating environments where both children and adults can thrive.When educators lose their joy, our programs feel it. When leaders intentionally create space for connection, play, optimism, and authentic relationships, that energy ripples through classrooms, teams, families, and communities.Erica and Anthony also look ahead at what early childhood education can become when we think differently about the people doing the work. How do we attract and retain passionate educators? How do we create stronger pathways for men in ECE? How do we give adults permission to play again? And how can leaders build cultures where joy is not an extra, but part of the way we lead?This episode is a reminder that play isn’t just for kids, joy matters, representation matters, and the future of early childhood education will be shaped by the people willing to bring their whole selves into the work.Learn More About Anthony ToombsLearn more about Anthony Toombs and the work of the Life is Good Playmaker Project at:Website: Playmaker Project: Why Playmakers | Life is GoodInstagram:  @lifeisgoodplaymakersFollow along for more resources, inspiration, professional learning, and a closer look at the work Anthony and the Playmaker team are doing to bring more joy, optimism, connection, and play into the lives of educators and children.And, as always, if this conversation speaks to you, share the episode with another early childhood professional, subscribe to the Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, and keep using your voice to help move our field forward.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailA successful school year doesn’t begin with decorated classrooms, completed checklists, or perfectly organized supply closets. It begins with the way we lead.In this episode, Erica Saccoccio and Melonie Kareem go beyond traditional back-to-school preparation to talk about what early childhood leaders really need to reset before children and families walk through the doors. From communication and team buy-in to clear systems, emotional regulation, and leadership presence, this conversation challenges directors and administrators to think differently about how they prepare their people—not just their programs.Because when leaders create clarity, consistency, and calm, teams are better equipped to thrive.If you’re ready to stop simply surviving the start of another school year and intentionally build the culture, systems, and leadership habits that can carry your team all year long, this episode is for you.To learn more about Melonie follow on IG: www.instagram.com/letstalkearlyyears/Listen to Let's Talk Early Years Podcast Let's Talk Early Years - Podcast - Apple PodcastsSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailChild care leaders are often expected to follow rules created by people who may not fully understand what it takes to run a program. In this episode, Erica sits down with Tim Kaminski, child care operator, advocate, and Texas Licensed Child Care Association leader, to talk about what happens when owners, directors, and educators stop sitting on the sidelines and start using their voices to influence the future of the industry.Tim shares how he went from feeling intimidated by advocacy to building real relationships with legislators, agencies, and business leaders—and why those relationships matter when policies directly affect staffing, funding, ratios, pre-K expansion, and the sustainability of private child care programs.Together, Erica and Tim dig into the realities policymakers often miss and why child care must be talked about as workforce infrastructure, not simply a service. They also discuss the power of data, association involvement, and everyday advocacy—and why speaking up does not begin at the state capitol. It begins with understanding your story, knowing your numbers, and being willing to tell decision-makers what is really happening inside your program.If you are a child care owner, director, educator, or association leader who has ever felt like decisions were being made about you without you, this episode is for you.To learn more about TLCCA Texas Licensed Child Care Association - HomeSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailHow many times have we put our jobs before our health and convinced ourselves that it was simply part of being committed?In this powerful episode, Erica sits down with Dr. Yvette Ledford, author of Teacher by Day: The No-Guilt Guide to Setting Boundaries, for an honest conversation about burnout, boundaries, and the pressure educators and childcare leaders feel to keep pushing even when their bodies are telling them to stop.They discuss why so many professionals feel guilty for resting, how unhealthy workplace expectations become normalized, and what it really means to choose yourself without abandoning the work you love. This episode is a reminder that your job needs your skills, but the people who love you need you healthy, present, and whole.To purchase your copy of Teacher By Day here ORDER BOOKFollow on IG (2) InstagramSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailBeing a childcare director can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be one of the hardest leadership roles in early childhood education.In this honest and relatable episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, I sit down with Jolynn Wendt, one of the most real childcare directors sharing her journey today. Jolynn loves the work she does, but she is also open about the pressure, responsibility, and emotional weight that come with leading a childcare program.We talk about what it is like to step into leadership as a younger director, navigate licensing expectations, support families, manage parent concerns, and still make sure your teaching team knows you have their back.This is not a polished conversation filled with perfect answers. It is a real discussion between two childcare leaders who truly understand the day-to-day challenges directors face.This episode is for every director who has ever felt pulled in every direction, questioned whether they were doing enough, or needed a reminder that they are not alone.To learn more about Jolynn and follow her leadership journey, find her on TikTok at @wendforgrowth.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailHow can music and movement help young children build stronger language and literacy skills?In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, I sit down with Alyssa Jewell, MLIS, and Melissa McCall to explore how songs, rhythm, movement, and playful classroom experiences can support early literacy development in preschool and Pre-K classrooms.We talk about practical ways educators can use music to strengthen vocabulary, phonological awareness, listening skills, memory, and language development. Alyssa and Melissa also share tips for choosing materials, building literacy-rich routines, and creating engaging learning experiences that help children connect words, sounds, stories, and movement.Melissa also shares more about her newly released song and how educators can intentionally use music as a teaching tool throughout the day.This conversation is filled with simple ideas that childcare directors and teachers can immediately bring back to their classrooms to make literacy learning more joyful, active, and meaningful.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you stop waiting for permission and finally decide to bet on yourself?In today’s episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, I sit down with Adva Hanan for an honest conversation about believing in your skills, recognizing the value of what you already know, and building opportunities beyond the classroom.We talk about what it feels like to leave the comfort of working for someone else, take the leap into entrepreneurship, and begin creating a business and life that reflect your purpose. This episode is for every educator or leader who knows they are capable of more but is still waiting for the perfect time to begin.You do not need to have every step figured out. Sometimes you simply need enough confidence to take the first one.Book a call with Adva api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/bookings/preschoolconsulting#BetOnYourself #ChildCareDirectorsChair #EarlyChildhoodLeadership #EducatorEntrepreneur #WomenInLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EarlyChildhoodEducation #Entrepreneurship #BelieveInYourselfSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailOrganizational growth does not begin with a new program, a bigger building, or a longer strategic plan. It begins with developing the people who will help carry the vision forward.In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Niki Da’Jon to discuss the connection between internal confidence, leadership development, and strategic planning. Together, they explore why directors must look beyond the immediate needs of the day and intentionally prepare their teams for the future.This conversation examines how leaders can recognize potential, build confidence, create meaningful growth opportunities, and help educators see themselves as part of the organization’s long-term success. Erica and Niki also discuss why strategic planning should include people development, succession planning, professional goals, and clear pathways for emerging leaders.When you invest in your people, you create stronger teams, reduce dependence on one leader, and build an organization that is prepared to grow. This episode will challenge directors and owners to ask an important question: Are you simply managing the people you have today, or are you intentionally developing the leaders your organization will need tomorrow?Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it truly mean to lead learning in an early childhood program? In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Jessica Karpathios, a forest school practitioner, pedagogical leader, presenter, and the voice behind The Curious Educator Collective, for a meaningful conversation about pedagogical leadership.Together, they explore how early childhood leaders can move beyond managing schedules, paperwork, staffing, and compliance to become more deeply connected to teaching, learning, and educator growth. Jessica shares how curiosity, reflection, intentional questioning, and collaboration can help leaders strengthen their practice and create environments where both educators and children feel empowered to explore, take risks, and grow.This episode also dives into what pedagogical leadership looks like in everyday practice, how leaders can help educators fine-tune their craft, and why meaningful reflection is essential for professional growth. You will hear practical ideas for asking better questions, supporting educators without simply giving them all the answers, and creating a culture where learning is viewed as an ongoing process rather than a checklist.Whether you are a childcare director, owner, administrator, coach, or classroom educator, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about leadership. Pedagogical leadership is not limited to a job title. It is about how we show up, how we remain curious, and how we create the conditions for meaningful learning to take place.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailYour best teacher may be dependable, respected, and amazing with children, but that does not always mean they are prepared to lead adults.In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica breaks down why strong teachers often struggle when they move into supervisory roles. From navigating friendships and difficult conversations to learning how to delegate, give feedback, and make decisions, this episode explores the leadership skills that are often missing after a promotion.If you are a childcare owner or director trying to step away from the day-to-day, this episode will help you understand how to stop simply filling positions and start intentionally building leaders who can help carry your organization forward.Love the show? Give us a follow on our social media (2) InstagramSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailPassion may bring educators into early childhood education, but passion alone will not keep them there.In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica Saccoccio explores why the childcare workforce cannot continue surviving on dedication, sacrifice, and love for children without the leadership, support, compensation, respect, and working conditions educators need to stay.This conversation challenges leaders to move from asking employees to give more to examining the systems that may be exhausting them. Erica discusses the difference between appreciation and action, why burnout should never be treated as proof of commitment, and how the daily employee experience shapes retention.You will leave this episode with practical questions to help you evaluate your workplace culture, onboarding, schedules, communication, professional growth opportunities, and leadership practices.The goal is not to find educators who are passionate enough to tolerate unsustainable conditions. The goal is to build workplaces that are worthy of their passion.This episode is sponsored by Watch Me Grow. To learn more about strengthening trust, safety, and family engagement in your childcare program, book a call today with Kevin and the Watch Me Grow team.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the real problem is not that good teachers are impossible to find—but that something inside your program is making it difficult for them to stay?In this episode, Erica Saccoccio challenges childcare leaders to look beyond job postings, callouts, and constant hiring. She explores how workplace culture, communication, expectations, support, onboarding, and leadership practices can quietly create what looks like a staffing problem.Before you hire another person, it may be time to take an honest look at what your current team is experiencing. This episode will help you identify where the real gaps may be and what you can begin changing today to build a workplace where strong educators want to stay.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailChildcare directors spend their days holding everything together—the classrooms, the staff, the families, the schedules, licensing requirements, enrollment, and every unexpected challenge that walks through the door. But while everyone depends on the director, who is checking on the person carrying it all?In this honest and personal episode, Erica Saccoccio talks about the emotional weight of childcare leadership, the hidden signs of director burnout, and why exhaustion should not be treated as proof of commitment. She also explores how stronger boundaries, better systems, and leadership support can help directors move from simply surviving the day to leading with clarity and confidence.For the next 30 days, you can join the Trailblazer Membership Group free and experience a community created to support childcare leaders just like you. Use code LAUNCH and visit www.childcaredirectorschair.com to join today.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the behavior challenging your classroom is actually a child’s way of asking for help?In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair Podcast, Erica sits down with school counselors and authors Ashley Zomalt and Kacy Brubaker to uncover what children’s big emotions and challenging behaviors may really be communicating.Together, they share how educators and child care leaders can move beyond simply stopping a behavior and begin identifying the feelings, unmet needs, and missing skills beneath it. You will learn how empathy, emotional intelligence, and storytelling can help children name their emotions, build self-regulation, and feel understood.This conversation will challenge you to stop asking, “How do I control this behavior?” and begin asking, “What is this child trying to tell me?”Connect with Ashley and Kacy:Website: www.weallhavesuperpowers.comInstagram: @weallhavesuperpowersYouTube: @weallhavesuperpowersSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailYour best teachers are often the ones who show up, step in, solve problems, support others, and quietly hold everything together. But because they are dependable, they can also become the most overlooked, overworked, and taken for granted.In this episode, we are talking about what extraordinary teachers truly need from their leaders. We will explore how to recognize burnout before it is too late, support their professional growth, listen to their ideas, and make sure appreciation goes beyond simply giving them more responsibility.Your strongest teachers should not have to feel exhausted, invisible, or undervalued before you realize how important they are. The real question is: Are you giving your best teachers a reason to stay?Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailAre great leaders born, or are they built?It's one of the oldest leadership debates, but I believe we've been asking the wrong question. Some people seem to have natural leadership abilities from a young age, while others grow into leadership over time. The real question isn't how you started—it's what you're doing with the leadership you've been given.In this first episode of our new series, Leadership Myths That Are Holding You Back, I'm sharing my own leadership journey—from being a Head Start child and earning my GED to becoming a childcare owner, leadership coach, speaker, and podcast host. Along the way, I discovered that while leadership may begin with natural gifts for some, lasting influence is built through intentional growth.We'll explore why personality isn't the same as leadership, how John Maxwell's Law of the Lid applies to every childcare leader, and why your willingness to keep growing determines the impact you'll have on your team, your program, and ultimately the children you serve.If you've ever questioned whether you were "meant" to lead—or if you've always been told you're a natural leader but aren't sure what comes next—this episode is for you.Join me this Wednesday inside the ECE Trailblazers Leadership Community, where we're committed to growing ourselves so we can multiply leaders throughout the early childhood profession.Because leadership isn't about where you begin. It's about who you're becoming.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when two sisters each run their own family child care program? You get honest conversations, plenty of laughter, real-life lessons, and a passion for supporting the profession they love.In this special podcast swap episode, Erica Saccoccio, host of The Child Care Director's Chair, sits down with the hosts of The Daycare Sisters Podcast to talk about the unique journey of owning separate family child care businesses while leaning on each other every step of the way. Together, they share stories from the field, discuss the realities of running a home-based program, and explore how building relationships with family child care providers across the country has created a powerful community of support.Whether you're a family child care provider, center director, owner, or early childhood educator, this episode is a reminder that leadership doesn't have to be lonely. Through shared experiences, authentic conversations, and a commitment to lifting one another up, we can strengthen our profession—one story at a time.In this episode, you'll hear about:The unique bond of being sisters in early childhood educationThe realities of owning and operating family child care programsWhy community matters more than competitionLessons they've learned from providers across the countryHow sharing our stories helps elevate the entire early childhood professionIf this conversation inspired you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another early childhood professional who believes we're stronger together.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailAfter spending time with incredible family child care providers at the National Family Child Care Association Conference in Chicago and the Florida Family Child Care Home Association event, I've found myself reflecting on just how much we have in common.As a center owner, I've always admired the heart, dedication, and resilience it takes to open your home to children every single day. While our businesses may look different on the outside, our mission is exactly the same—we're building relationships with families, supporting children, leading educators, navigating regulations, solving problems, and advocating for a profession we all love.In this solo episode, I'm sharing some of my random thoughts and appreciation for family child care providers. We'll explore where our journeys overlap, where our challenges are different, and why it's time to stop seeing ourselves as separate parts of early childhood education.Whether you own a center, operate a family child care program, or lead a team of educators, this conversation is an invitation to collaborate instead of compete. Because when we speak with one voice, advocate together, and celebrate one another's successes, our entire profession becomes stronger.Our children don't care what type of program we operate—they simply need passionate, qualified educators who show up every day ready to make a difference. Let's raise each other's voices and continue building an early childhood profession that is stronger because we stand together.In this episode you'll discover:What center owners and family child care providers have in commonThe unique strengths of family child care programsWhy collaboration is more powerful than competitionHow we can better support one another across our professionWhy every early childhood educator deserves a seat at the tableIf this episode resonates with you, share it with another early childhood leader. Together, we can continue elevating the voices of everyone who makes a difference in the lives of young children.#ChildCareDirectorsChair #FamilyChildCare #ChildCareOwner #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ECELeadership #Leadership #ChildCareBusiness #ChildCareDirector #Advocacy #Collaboration #EricaSaccoccioSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailFinding your way as a leader isn't always a straight path—and in early childhood education, every experience shapes the leader you become.In this episode of The Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, Annie Watkins joins Erica Saccoccio to share her leadership journey, from unexpectedly entering the childcare profession to becoming a confident childcare director. Together, they discuss finding your voice, overcoming self-doubt, building confidence, and leading with purpose, even when the path isn't always clear.Whether you're a childcare director, preschool director, childcare owner, assistant director, teacher, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers practical leadership lessons and encouragement to help you grow into the leader your team deserves.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ How to find your leadership voice✔️ Why confidence is built through experience✔️ How to navigate challenges and uncertainty as a leader✔️ The importance of mentorship and lifelong learning✔️ Ways to build trust and support your team✔️ Why every leadership journey is uniqueNo matter where you are in your leadership journey, this episode is a reminder that you don't have to have all the answers to become an impactful leader—you simply have to keep growing.💬 We'd love to hear from you!What has helped you find your way as a leader in early childhood education? Share your story in the comments below.👍 If you enjoyed this episode:• Like this video• Subscribe for weekly childcare leadership content• Share this episode with another early childhood leader.#ChildcareLeadership #ChildcareDirector #EarlyChildhoodEducation #LeadershipDevelopment #PreschoolDirector #ChildcareOwner #LeadershipJourney #ECELeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #ChildCareDirectorsChairSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailHow can collaboration transform your childcare center and strengthen your leadership?In this episode of The Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio celebrates the podcast's 3-year anniversary with special guest LaTroya B., founder of The Preschool Posse, for an inspiring conversation about why collaboration beats competition in early childhood education.If you're a childcare director, childcare owner, preschool director, assistant director, instructional coach, or early childhood educator, this episode will help you build stronger teams, develop meaningful professional relationships, and lead with greater confidence.Together, Erica and LaTroya discuss how moving from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset can transform not only your leadership but the entire early childhood profession. They explore the power of networking, authentic collaboration, shared leadership, staff retention, business growth, advocacy, and supporting one another as leaders.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ Why collaboration is the key to stronger childcare leadership✔️ How to build meaningful professional relationships in early childhood education✔️ The difference between networking and true collaboration✔️ How to shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset✔️ Leadership strategies that improve staff retention and workplace culture✔️ Why business strategy is essential for childcare owners and directors✔️ How collaboration creates lasting impact for children, families, and educatorsWhether you lead one childcare center or multiple programs, this conversation will remind you that leadership is not meant to be done alone. The strongest childcare leaders don't compete—they collaborate.🎙️ Hosted by Erica SaccoccioMulti-site childcare owner, leadership coach, national speaker, and host of The Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, where childcare directors and early childhood leaders gain practical leadership strategies to build stronger teams, grow successful programs, and elevate the profession.👇 We'd love to hear from you!How has collaboration helped you become a stronger leader? Share your experience in the comments—we'd love to continue the conversation.👍 If you enjoyed this episode:• Like this video• Subscribe for weekly childcare leadership content• Share this episode with another childcare leader who needs this message.#ChildcareLeadership #ChildcareDirector #ChildcareOwner #EarlyChildhoodEducation #PreschoolDirector #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #StaffRetention #ECELeadership #WomenInBusiness #ProfessionalDevelopment #ChildCareDirectorsChair #EricaSaccoccio #PreschoolPosseSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailUnlock the secret to transforming your early childhood program by cultivating a culture of genuine collaboration. If you're a director feeling the weight of disjointed teams, or a teacher craving deeper connections, this episode is your game-changer. Imagine classrooms where teachers step in seamlessly, communication flows effortlessly, and a positive, trusting environment is the norm—not the exception. Coach Ray from New Orleans reveals the practical, evidence-based strategies that turn this vision into reality. From building trust and intentional pairing to harnessing video coaching and redefining leadership, you'll discover how small shifts can create monumental impacts on staff dynamics and child outcomes. We break down: How to identify the signs of a strong collaborative culture during classroom visits The power of modeling, feedback, and real conversations in boosting teacher skills Strategies to overcome distrust, personality clashes, and hierarchical barriersThe importance of intentional staffing, shared vision, and growth pathways for long-term successThe role of leadership in fostering safe spaces where teachers feel empowered to share ideas, ask questions, and innovate Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailArtificial intelligence is here, and it's changing the way child care leaders work. But before you worry about AI replacing educators, let's set the record straight—it never will.In this episode of the Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio explores how child care directors and owners can use AI to become more organized, communicate more effectively, and reclaim valuable time without sacrificing the relationships that make early childhood education so special.You'll discover practical ways to use AI for parent communication, staff leadership, meeting agendas, hiring, training, marketing, and everyday administrative tasks, while learning why your leadership, experience, and heart will always be your greatest advantage.If you're ready to work smarter, lead with confidence, and prepare your program for the future, this episode is for you.In This Episode:How AI can save child care leaders hours every weekSimple ways to use AI in your program todayWhat AI should never replace in early childhood educationHow to lead with innovation while keeping people at the centerWhy the future belongs to leaders who are willing to learnLeadership Challenge: Choose one task you've been putting off and let AI help you complete it. Then use the time you save to invest in your staff, your families, or your classroom.Because great leadership isn't about doing more—it's about creating more time for what matters most.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat if one of the biggest myths in early childhood education is that great leaders have to carry everything alone? In this episode of The Child Care Directors Chair, Erica sits down with Tacita Bateman, founder of Childcare Culture and Company, to talk about why collaboration, culture, and leadership pipelines matter more than ever. They dig into burnout, broken systems, innovative solutions, and the power of sharing ideas with other child care leaders. If you’re ready to stop surviving and start leading with intention, this conversation is for you.To get your tickets for culture shock click the link to learn more: Meet the Speakers | Childcare Culture Shock SummitSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the most important part of your leadership isn't what you accomplish—but how you make people feel?In this episode of the Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio challenges educators to stop simply going through the motions and start creating moments that people will remember for a lifetime. Through personal stories, leadership insights, and practical encouragement, you'll discover how small, intentional moments can transform your team, your culture, your career, and your legacy.Erica also shares her journey from after-school van driver to CEO, invites you to join her at the Ready, Set, Teach Summit, and introduces the Trailblazers Leadership Community, where educators are turning their dreams into reality.Ready Set Teach Link: The Ready, Set, Teach! Summit: Teacherpreneur EditionSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailEvery leader creates a ripple.The conversations you have, the feedback you give, the trust you extend, and the opportunities you provide don't end in the moment—they continue shaping confidence, culture, and future leaders long after you've moved on.In this powerful episode of the Child Care Director's Chair Podcast, Erica Saccoccio explores one of the most overlooked truths about leadership: your greatest impact isn't found in the tasks you complete—it's found in the people you develop.Whether you're leading one classroom, one center, or an entire organization, every interaction sends a message. The question is: What kind of ripple are you creating?In this episode, you'll discover:• Why leadership is built in ordinary moments—not extraordinary ones• How your words become someone else's inner voice• The difference between creating dependent employees and developing confident leaders• Why coaching creates greater impact than rescuing• How intentional leadership strengthens culture, improves retention, and builds future leaders• The legacy every leader leaves—whether they realize it or notIf you've ever wondered how to create a lasting impact beyond your title, this episode will challenge you to think differently about the influence you carry every single day.Because leadership isn't measured by what you accomplish.It's measured by who becomes better because you led them.🎙️ If this episode inspired you, share it with another leader who is committed to creating a ripple that changes lives.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful leadership episode, Erica Saccoccio explores one of the most misunderstood dynamics in early childhood leadership: the difference between confidence and control.At first glance, these two approaches can seem similar—both can reflect structure, high standards, and strong leadership. But beneath the surface, they produce very different outcomes in teams, culture, and organizational sustainability.Erica breaks down how control, while sometimes necessary for safety, compliance, and consistency, can easily shift into a default leadership style that limits growth, creates dependence, and places the leader at the center of every decision. In contrast, confidence is reframed not as disengagement, but as a deliberate leadership stance rooted in trust, clarity, and capacity-building.Through real-world early childhood leadership examples, Erica explains how to discern when a situation requires structure and direction versus when it calls for coaching, reflection, and distributed decision-making. She also unpacks the hidden cost of over-control—and why it often leads to bottlenecks, burnout, and underdeveloped teams.This episode challenges leaders to move beyond personality-based leadership and into discernment-based leadership, where the goal is not control or even confidence alone, but sustainable capacity.Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how to: Recognize when they are leading from control versus confidence  Build systems that develop independent thinkers, not dependency  Strengthen team capacity through intentional coaching and reflection  Create programs that hold strong even when they are not in the room This is a must-listen for childcare directors, early childhood leaders, and anyone ready to shift from being the center of the system to the developer of leaders within it.Control creates compliance. Confidence creates leaders.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a leader decides to stop simply managing and start intentionally growing?In this special ECE Trailblazers Member Spotlight, Erica sits down with Angela MacCarthy to discuss her leadership journey, the growth she has experienced through the ECE Trailblazers program, and the lessons that have transformed the way she leads her team and program.Angela shares her honest reflections on the challenges she faced before joining Trailblazers, the confidence she has built along the way, and the leadership skills she continues to strengthen every day. From mindset shifts to practical strategies, this conversation is packed with inspiration for directors, owners, and emerging leaders looking to take the next step in their professional growth.During this interview, you'll discover:✨ What motivated Angela to join ECE Trailblazers✨ The biggest leadership breakthroughs she has experienced✨ How coaching and community have impacted her growth✨ Lessons she now applies in her program every day✨ What she is currently working on as a leader✨ Her advice for other early childhood professionals looking to growWhether you're a seasoned leader or just beginning your leadership journey, Angela's story is a powerful reminder that growth happens when we invest in ourselves, embrace challenges, and surround ourselves with people who inspire us to become better.Tune in and be inspired by a fellow Trailblazer who is making an impact through intentional leadership.#ECETrailblazers #LeadershipDevelopment #ChildCareLeadership #EarlyChildhoodEducation #WomenInLeadership #DirectorLeadership #LeadershipGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #ECELeaders #ChildCareDirectorsChairPodcastSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailMost leaders don’t actually have a “listening problem” on their teams—they have a communication pattern that unintentionally trains people to wait instead of think.In this episode, Erica Saccoccio unpacks what is really happening when directors feel like they are repeating themselves, stepping in too often, or carrying all the thinking in their program. This is not about talking louder or giving more instructions. It’s about understanding how communication shapes behavior, confidence, and ownership over time.Erica breaks down the difference between communication that creates compliance versus communication that builds professional thinking. She explores how even well-intentioned leaders can accidentally create dependency by always providing answers instead of developing judgment.You’ll walk away understanding how to shift your everyday conversations so they begin to build capacity in your staff—helping them move from “What should I do?” to “Here’s how I’m thinking about this.”This episode will help you:Recognize why staff may be “hearing you” but not applying direction consistentlyUnderstand how leadership communication shapes independence or dependenceShift from giving answers to developing thinking in real time conversationsBuild a culture where staff take ownership instead of waiting for directionThis is a deeper look at leadership communication—where clarity is not enough, and influence is the real work.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan Mail Too many childcare leaders dilute their message in an effort to be liked, avoid conflict, or keep everyone happy. But softened communication leads to confusion, inconsistent follow-through, and a team that’s never fully sure what’s expected.In this episode, Erica Saccoccio breaks down the hidden habits of “softened leadership”—from over-explaining decisions to apologizing for expectations—and why it quietly weakens your authority over time. You’ll learn how to shift from seeking approval to leading with clarity, confidence, and consistency.If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation wondering if people really understood you, this episode will help you tighten your leadership voice and communicate expectations in a way your team can actually follow.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Erica Saccoccio is joined by Veronica Green for a powerful conversation on child-led play, observation skills, and what it truly means to build confidence as an early childhood educator.Together, they explore how slowing down in early childhood environments can unlock deeper learning, strengthen educator reflection, and support children’s natural curiosity. Veronica shares practical strategies for using observation intentionally, responding to children in the moment, and creating learning environments that are truly responsive—not rushed or controlled.You’ll also hear how frameworks like Emergent Play Lenses can help educators shift their mindset from directing play to supporting it, along with simple language tools like “I notice” and “I wonder” that transform interactions with children.If you’re ready to build confidence in your practice, strengthen your observation skills, and reconnect with the power of play, this episode will give you both reflection and real-world tools you can use immediately.Support the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.