The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Child Care Directors Chair podcast, Erica discusses the significance of the conference celebrating major milestones in early childhood education, including the CDA's 50th anniversary. The conversation highlights the importance of the CDA in shaping educators' confidence and skills, the future direction of the CDA, and the launch of the Council Tabl...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair , Erica sits down with recent CDA graduate Tori Arnold live from the CDA Leadership Conference! Tori shares her inspiring journey to earning her CDA and the incredible feeling of validation and empowerment that came with achieving this milestone. Coming from a long line of educators, Tori is proudly continuing her family’s legacy...

Send us Fan Mail 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’...

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Send us Fan Mail 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 ste...

Send us Fan Mail  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....

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Send us Fan Mail  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 tr...

Send us Fan Mail  Go behind the scenes with The Childcare Director’s Chair as Erica Saccoccio records live at the ctaeyc Conference! In this special episode, hear candid conversations with early childhood educators as they share real-life experiences, challenges, and quick tips you can use in your own program. Plus, dive deep into self-care with PD Monster—because true self-care goes beyond surfac...

Send us Fan Mail  Go behind the scenes with The Childcare Director’s Chair as Erica Saccoccio and Kashonda as they record live at the ctaeyc Conference! In this episode, hear from this incredible educator who shares her thoughts on what makes a truly great preschool teacher—and what makes a boss worth following. Her energy and passion are infectious, and her whole team was a shining example of joy...

Send us Fan Mail  Go behind the scenes with The Childcare Director’s Chair as Erica Saccoccio records live at the ctaeyc Conference! In this episode, meet Brittany, a passionate toddler teacher, who shares what it truly takes to nurture and inspire the littlest learners. She also opens up about what she values in a great director—insights every leader can take to heart. Tune in for candid conversa...

Send us Fan Mail  Go behind the scenes with The Childcare Director’s Chair ! Erica Saccoccio hits the floor at the ctaeyc Conference, sharing her mic with educators from all over the country. In this episode, Michelle, a dynamic childcare owner, opens up about balancing business savvy with empathy, embracing multigenerational teams, and leading with heart. From laughter-filled conversations to rea...

Send us Fan Mail   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 to...

Send us Fan Mail  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...

Send us Fan Mail  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...

Send us Fan Mail  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, support...

Send us Fan Mail  Sick of drama taking over your childcare center? Staff gossip, parent complaints, and toxic venting can derail your team and drain your energy. In this episode, Erica Saccoccio breaks down how to spot the difference between harmless venting and true toxicity, who’s fueling the drama, and practical strategies to stop it fast. You’ll learn how to set clear expectations, lead with c...

Send us Fan Mail  Let’s be real—sending your team to professional development only to watch it vanish the moment they clock back in is exhausting. In this episode, we spill the tea on how leaders can make PD fun, memorable, and actually worth the investment. You’ll get practical tips to turn training into an experience your staff will love, keep learning alive in your day-to-day, and inspire your...

Send us Fan Mail In the final episode of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio helps childcare leaders reflect on their journey and plan the next steps for growth and inspiration . This episode is packed with motivation, practical takeaways, and a challenge to keep pushing forward as a director, assistant director, or emerging leader. Learn how to sta...

Send us Fan Mail In Episode 23 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio explores the idea of leadership legacy —the lasting impact you leave on your team, your center, and the children you serve. Learn how to lead with intention, inspire your staff, and create a culture that outlives any single day or challenge. This episode is perfect for directors,...

Send us Fan Mail In Episode 22 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio shares strategies for leading effectively without sacrificing your health and well-being . Learn practical tips for setting boundaries, managing stress, and creating sustainable routines so you can maintain your energy, focus, and passion as a childcare leader. This episode is per...

Send us Fan Mail In Episode 21 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio dives into the critical role childcare leaders play as advocates for their staff, children, and the early childhood education field. Learn how to use your voice effectively in your community and at the state level, influence policy, and raise awareness about the needs of your prog...

Send us Fan Mail In Episode 20 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio explores how childcare leaders can identify and develop the next generation of leaders within their team. Learn practical strategies for recognizing leadership potential, mentoring emerging staff, and creating opportunities for growth. This episode is perfect for directors, assist...

Send us Fan Mail In Episode 19 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio dives into one of the most powerful strategies for childcare leaders: retaining your staff . Learn why focusing on loyalty, engagement, and growth within your team is more effective than constantly recruiting new staff. This episode is perfect for directors, assistant directors, a...

Send us Fan Mail  In Episode 18 of our 24 podcasts in 24 hours marathon for International Podcast Day , Erica Saccoccio shares strategies for creating a positive workplace culture that staff actually want to be part of. Learn how to foster respect, recognition, and collaboration so your team feels valued, engaged, and motivated to stay long-term. This episode is ideal for childcare directors, assi...