Send us a text

 It’s Halloween, friends — and if you work in childcare, you know what that means! Sugar highs, costume drama, glitter explosions, and at least one Elsa who refuses to take off her crown all day. In this hilarious and heartwarming episode, Erica takes you behind the scenes for a real look at one of the wildest days of the year in a childcare center.

From teachers dodging frosting disasters to administrators running crowd control during the costume parade, this one’s got it all. Whether you’re sipping your coffee in your pumpkin earrings or already sweeping up candy wrappers, this episode will have you laughing, nodding, and saying, “Yup… been there!”

👻 In this episode:

• The real morning chaos of Halloween in childcare 🎃
• How admins and teachers tag-team to keep the fun rolling
• Funny costume fails (and triumphs!)
• Tips to keep your sanity — and your smile — through the sugar storm

So grab your witch’s brew ☕, toss on that glittery cape, and hit that play button right now — because this one’s for every childcare superhero keeping the Halloween magic alive (and somewhat under control)!

🧡 Don’t forget: Share this episode with your fellow teachers and directors — and tag us @CCDCPodcast so we can see your Halloween spirit in action!

#ChildcareLife #HalloweenFun #DaycareDiaries #CCDCPodcast #ChildcareHumor #TeacherLife

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this special listener reply episode, Erica answers a heartfelt message from Wendy, an educator dreaming of opening her own nature preschool and launching a coaching business to support other early childhood professionals.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What’s next for me in childcare?” — this episode is your roadmap! Erica breaks down exactly how to start your own childcare business or coaching venture with simple, realistic steps that help you move from idea to action.

You’ll learn:
 🌿 How to define your “why” and build a strong foundation
 💼 The first steps to legally and confidently start your business
 ✨ How to build your personal brand and coaching identity
 🤝 Why community and mentorship matter more than ever

Plus, Erica shares exciting details about the Early Education Empowerment Conference happening May 7–9 at the Crowne Plaza, with a bonus Wellness Day at Raffa Yoga on May 10th, and how you can join her Trailblazer Community — the best $10-a-week investment you’ll ever make in your leadership journey!

If you’re ready to grow, lead, and finally take that next step in your early childhood career, this episode will light the fire and show you how to start.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Child Care Directorship Podcast, Erica speaks with Tirusha Dave, an early childhood educator and entrepreneur, about her experiences in the field of childcare. They discuss the importance of supporting teachers, the impact of curriculum choices on student success, and the significance of servant leadership in early childhood education. Tirusha shares her advocacy efforts for childcare funding in New Jersey and reflects on her personal journey in the education sector, emphasizing the need for passion and community support in nurturing young learners.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this conversation, Dr. Dan Wuori discusses the critical aspects of early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of play as a learning tool, the misconceptions surrounding school readiness, and the impact of policy on early childhood education. He highlights the challenges faced by the childcare workforce, including compensation issues and high turnover rates, while also expressing hope for the future of early childhood education through bipartisan support and advocacy. Dr. Wuori offers advice for male educators, encouraging them to embrace their role in shaping young lives. Also, a shout out one of our top listeners the one and only Trevor Newton give him a little love on his IG Page (3) Instagram tell him ccdc podcast sent you.

To learn more about Dr Dan Wuori visit his website About - Dan Wuori

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

Are your staff on the same page — or just nodding along? In this episode of The Childcare Director’s Chair, Erica Saccoccio dives into one of the most powerful yet underused leadership skills: listening to understand.

Learn how listening — not just hearing — can:
 ✅ Demonstrate that you value your team
 ✅ Build trust and influence
 ✅ Encourage collaboration and alignment
 ✅ Elevate good ideas and untapped potential

Erica shares practical strategies for implementing an open ear policy, evaluating your own listening skills, and creating a culture where curiosity and communication thrive.

Plus, a special sponsor message from Jackrabbit Care and an exciting announcement: the 2026 Early Education Empowerment Conference is set for May 7–9, with an Educator Wellness Day on May 10! Keynote and speaker announcements will be coming soon, and you’ll hear them here first.

Press play and discover how true leadership starts with the power of listening.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Child Care Directors Chair Podcast, host Erica speaks with Paul Buckley, founder of Ratio Staffing, about the challenges and innovations in staffing for preschools. Paul shares his journey from being a preschool teacher to leading a staffing solution that addresses the disconnect between educators and centers. The conversation explores the importance of flexibility, the role of technology in empowering educators, and the future of early childhood education staffing.
 Use promo code Directors  to get an.      extra 30 days FREE on the app.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Child Care Directors Chair podcast, host Erica interviews Addy Caron, a 16-year-old aspiring educator attending the AEYC conference in Maine. Addy shares her passion for early childhood education, inspired by her experiences working with children at a summer camp. She discusses the challenges and rewards of helping underprivileged kids and emphasizes the importance of effective communication with children. Addy offers advice for those considering a career in education and shares her favorite ice cream flavor.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Child Care Directors Chair podcast, host Erica interviews Desiree, the owner of Teachers House Child Care. They discuss the importance of community in childcare, the journey of starting a family daycare, and the challenges and rewards of working in early childhood education. Desiree shares her experiences, insights on burnout, and the significance of fostering a love for learning in children.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Child Care Directors Chair Podcast, host Erica speaks with Jane Banish, an expert in early childhood education, about the importance of integrating science into preschool curricula. Jane shares her journey from environmental education to teaching, emphasizing hands-on learning and exploration. She discusses various materials that can enhance math and science exploration in the classroom, the benefits of fostering a sense of wonder in children, and the need for educators to embrace a mindset of inquiry. Jane also offers practical advice for educators in urban settings and expresses her deep respect for early childhood teachers.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Childcare Directors Podcast, Erica speaks with Dr. Cheryl Hovey from Fisher College about the various programs offered for early childhood professionals. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in education, the significance of building a professional network, and the value of pursuing higher education in the field. Cheryl shares insights on scholarships available for students and emphasizes the need for educators to be relatable and accessible. The conversation wraps up with advice for aspiring educators and a light-hearted discussion about favorite ice cream flavors.

Support the show

We invite you to join our community of dedicated listeners by supporting our podcast with a monthly subscription. Your contribution plays a vital role in enabling us to continue producing valuable content that empowers you to effectively lead your team and childcare business to success. By subscribing, you not only gain access to exclusive benefits, but you also help us in our mission to provide you with practical and actionable bite-sized strategies on a daily basis that you can implement immediately.

Investing in our podcast is an investment in your own growth and the success of your business. We firmly believe that by prioritizing the well-being of your team, you are paving the way for long-term success. Join us in this journey towards excellence and subscribe today to unlock a wealth of knowledge and resources that will propel you towards your goals. Your support means the world to us, and together, we can achieve greatness. Thank you for considering a monthly subscription to our podcast.