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As part of our CDA Council 50th Anniversary Celebration and live podcast experience at the CDA Leadership Conference, Erica is joined by the one and only Jerletha McDonald — presenter, family child care advocate, and absolute powerhouse in early childhood education.

In this lively and heartfelt episode (bloopers and all!), Jerletha shares what the CDA means to her, the impact it’s had on her journey, and how it continues to elevate the field of early childhood education. A longtime friend of The Child Care Director’s Chair podcast, Jerletha brings her signature warmth, humor, and real talk to the mic for a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Join us as we laugh, learn, and celebrate 50 years of the CDA’s legacy — and the incredible people who make it shine.

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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.

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In celebration of the CDA’s 50th Anniversary, The Child Care Director’s Chair honors the voices and visionaries shaping the future of early childhood education. In this inspiring episode, Erica sits down with Najwa Dahdah, M.A., a remarkable educator and advocate whose journey began with earning her CDA and has since grown to include an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and now a Master’s degree.

Najwa shares her powerful story of perseverance, advocacy, and community impact. Passionate about supporting bilingual and immigrant educators, she’s helping candidates earn their CDA in their home language or the language of the bilingual children they serve. Her work bridges gaps, removes barriers, and ensures every educator has a seat at the table.

Tune in to celebrate 50 years of the CDA’s legacy and hear how leaders like Najwa Dahdah are continuing to lift others up — one voice, one educator, and one child at a time.

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.

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Do you truly see yourself as a leader in your early childhood program—or are you moving through your days on autopilot? In this episode, we dive into practical ways to build awareness in your leadership, helping you notice your team, track the impact of your actions, recognize emotional triggers, and make intentional adjustments that transform outcomes. Awareness is the first step to growth, and growth starts with action.

Save the dates! The Early Education Empowerment Conference is coming to Rhode Island April 30–May 1, followed by Educator Wellness Day at Raffa Spa on May 2. The website goes live next week, and tickets will be on sale soon.

Join our ECE Trailblazers Program for free to connect with other passionate leaders, get actionable tools, and elevate your leadership—and your program’s impact—starting today. Membership | Child Care Director use the word LAUNCH to get into the group your first month for FREE.

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.

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 Do you truly know where you stand as a leader in your early childhood program? In this episode, I guide you through six steps to locate your current ECE leadership position—from assessing your team and decision-making style to reflecting on priorities, mindset, and program outcomes. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to see clearly, take action, and lead with confidence.

Save the dates! The Early Education Empowerment Conference is coming to Rhode Island on April 30–May 1, followed by Educator Wellness Day at Raffa Spa on May 2.

Want to take your leadership even further? Join our ECE Trailblazers Program for free, connect with other passionate leaders, and gain the tools and support to elevate your leadership and your program’s impact. Membership Link Membership | Child Care Director use the code word Launch to get your first month for FREE.

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.

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Are hidden roadblocks keeping you from leading your early childhood program with confidence and impact? In this episode, I break down the five biggest challenges ECE leaders face—from fear of failure to unclear priorities and weak systems—and share practical strategies to overcome them. You’ll learn how to create a clear, actionable leadership roadmap that drives results for your team, your program, and the children in your care.

Want to elevate your leadership in early childhood education? Join our ECE Trailblazers Program for free, connect with other passionate ECE leaders, and get the tools and support you need to take your leadership—and your program—to the next level. Here is the link to join for the first month FREE and use the code word LAUNCH Membership | Child Care Director

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.

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 Feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your leadership journey? In this episode, Erica Saccoccio breaks down why having a leadership roadmap isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s essential if you want to grow, reach your goals, and lead with confidence.

We’ll dive into four powerful reasons you need a roadmap:
 ✅ Clarity that builds trust and confidence
 ✅ The ability to prioritize what truly matters
 ✅ Accountability that keeps you moving forward
 ✅ Resilience when challenges and setbacks come your way

Plus, Erica shares practical ways to put your leadership GPS into action so you can stop drifting and start leading with purpose.

🎧 Midway, we thank our amazing sponsor Jackrabbit Care—your all-in-one childcare management software—and share how you can snag a free demo (link in the show notes).

And don’t miss this month’s special invitation: Join the ECE Trailblazers Leadership Group FREE during October use the code LAUNCH and get the support, tools, and community you need to take your leadership to the next level.

Link:Membership | Child Care Director

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.

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 Go behind the scenes at the ctaeyc Conference with The Childcare Director’s Chair! Phillis, a director who’s successfully navigated the tricky path from staff member to supervisor, shares her stories, laughs, and lessons learned along the way. She dishes out practical tips for new directors moving up the ranks—how to lead former peers, set boundaries, and build a strong, supportive team. Packed with energy, real-life advice, and behind-the-scenes insights, this episode celebrates the challenges and joys of stepping into leadership in early childhood education!

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.

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 Go behind the scenes at the ctaeyc Conference with The Childcare Director’s Chair! In this live interview, Emmanuel Silvia shares his expertise on working with children who have mental health needs and the critical role of connecting children, families, and teachers to mental health resources. Learn practical strategies, real-world insights, and why building these connections is essential for a supportive, thriving learning environment. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation that highlights the importance of mental health in early childhood education! 

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

 Go behind the scenes at the ctaeyc Conference with The Childcare Director’s Chair! In this live interview, Patty, a new and passionate director, shares her insights on why classroom curriculum should connect seamlessly as children move from class to class. She explains how creating cohesion across classrooms—not having teachers work in isolation—supports learning, growth, and a stronger school community. Tune in for practical advice, fresh perspectives, and a peek into how thoughtful planning can make a real difference for both educators and 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

  Go behind the scenes at the CT AEYC Conference with The Childcare Director’s Chair! In this lively 5-minute interview, we shine a spotlight on the incredible work of toddler teachers—those extraordinary educators who keep little learners active, engaged, and learning at every turn. Hear from a passionate toddler teacher as she shares what makes a great teacher, how she keeps toddlers busy and thriving, and why this developmental stage is as challenging as it is rewarding. Short, fun, and packed with admiration and practical tips—you’ll leave inspired by the heroes shaping our tiniest 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.