The Inspiring Early Childhood Educator

Round Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 1

In this episode, I’m sharing an unforgettable experience from a recent roundtable discussion where I had the honor of sitting alongside some of the most inspiring educators in the early childhood field. This was a conversation that we, as educators, don’t always get the chance to have—one that focuses on us.
We talked about the real challenges we face every day and the powerful ways we can support ourselves and each other. From self-care strategies to leadership tips, the importance of mentorship, and the magic of play (not just for the kids but for us, too!), this episode is packed with heart, wisdom, and practical gems you can use right now.
I also want to celebrate the incredible educators and podcasters who joined me in this conversation. They are doing amazing work to advocate for and support educators everywhere, and I’m so grateful to have connected with them.
📣 Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss:
A candid discussion on bridging the gap between theory and practice
Heartfelt stories that will resonate with educators at every level
Actionable ideas to implement in your classroom and professional journey today
💡 Featured Guests:A dynamic panel of educators, including @‌prek.spot, @coachforteachers, @‌ccdcpodcast, @missjamie_rece, @‌childcareconversations, @ecehonestly, @‌susie.beghin, and more!

Interview with Jamee Herbert

In this week’s episode of Ispyr to Educate, we’re joined by Jamee Herbert, CEO and co-founder of BridgeCare, a company revolutionizing early childhood education (ECE) through technology and advocacy. Jamee has dedicated her career to making high-quality childcare accessible and equitable for families, providers, and agencies across the U.S. With a focus on empathy-led technology, BridgeCare offers data-driven solutions that simplify enrollment, subsidy access, and program administration—positively impacting over 500,000 families and 50,000 providers nationwide.
Tune in as we chat with Jamee about the vital connection between provider pay and childcare quality, the role of technology in creating inclusive ECE experiences, and her vision for the future of childcare. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for educators, parents, and policymakers alike!
Connect with Jamee:
Website: BridgeCare: An ECE System That Works for Everyone
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameeherbert/
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Reigniting My Passion: Professional Learning That Inspired Me

In this episode, I’m sharing a recent professional learning experience with Dr. Andrew B. Campbell (Dr. ABC) that reignited my passion and reminded me why our wellness as educators is so essential. Dr. ABC’s words were powerful, emphasizing that our joy, energy, and growth as educators are worth protecting and prioritizing. I’m sharing the key takeaways that inspired me to continue advocating for educator wellness and to bring big energy to every space we’re in. Join me as we dive into the power of learning experiences that light us up and how we can grow, glow, and go on this journey together.
Dr. Andrew B Campbell Contact Info:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-b-campbell-ph-d-a7373b2b/
Instagram: Instagram (@teachablemomentswithdrabc)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeachableMomentswithDr.ABC/
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Interview with Julie Hansen: Her Inspiring Journey

In this empowering episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, your host Marcia Nicole sits down with the amazing Julie Hansen—a passionate Early Childhood Educator, Consultant, and Author with over 24 years of experience. Julie’s journey is all about leadership, growth, and making a real impact in early childhood education.
Julie takes us through her inspiring story, starting as a young educator to becoming a leader who is now focused on team leadership, management training, and developing programs that shape the future of ECE. We talk about the challenges she faced along the way, the big wins, and how her passion for advocacy continues to drive her mission to uplift educators and children.
This episode is packed with powerful takeaways:
Julie’s personal transformation from an educator to a leader, and the experiences that shaped her approach
How she champions the importance of leadership in early childhood education—and how even small steps can create big waves
The vital role of management training in empowering educators to provide high-quality learning environments
Why advocacy is key in this field and how educators can make an impact, even with simple, everyday actions
Insights from Julie’s published work on emergent curriculum and leadership, offering practical wisdom for every educator
Julie’s passion for leadership and high-quality early learning shines through in every part of her journey. Whether you’re an educator, leader, or advocate, this episode will inspire you to lead with purpose and continue making a difference in your own way.
🎧 Tune in for a conversation filled with motivation and actionable insights!
Connect with Julie Hansen:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inspired_ece/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/eceinspired/
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@InspiredECE
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hansen-9023a641/

Welcome, New Listeners! My Story and a Heartfelt Thank You

In this episode, I’m sharing my story with both new and longtime listeners, opening up about the journey that led me to create The Inspiring ECE Podcast. I’m so grateful for each of you who tunes in, shares your feedback, and makes this community what it is. Whether you’re just joining us or have been here since the beginning, thank you for being part of this growing network of educators supporting one another.
I also want to give a special shoutout to Carla Ward and her Shoot for the Stars Podcast Academy, where I learned so much about bringing this vision to life. Through her program, I gained the tools and confidence to create a platform that amplifies the voices of educators and dives into the real conversations we all need.
Tune in to hear more about my journey and my gratitude for all of you who make this community possible. And as always, I’d love to hear from you! Reach out with any topics you’d like covered, or if you’re interested in being a guest on the show.
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Email: info@ispyrtoeducate.com

Real Talk: Navigating Guilt, Growth, and Grace

In today’s episode, I’m getting real and vulnerable about what’s been going on behind the scenes. It’s been a rough couple of months trying to balance everything—being an educator, a mom, an entrepreneur, and honestly, just being me. I’m diving into the emotional ups and downs, the exhaustion, the moments of guilt, and the brain fog that’s made me feel like I’m falling behind. This isn’t just about balancing work and life; it’s about learning to find harmony in the chaos and giving ourselves grace in the process.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or like you’re not “enough,” this episode is for you. We’re opening up the conversation on the things we often keep to ourselves—like exhaustion, guilt, and the struggle to keep going when the world expects us to keep it all together. Join me for an honest, heart-to-heart chat that I hope will leave you feeling seen, understood, and inspired to keep moving forward at your own pace.
Tune in, and let’s normalize being human, together.
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ECE Appreciation Day: You Are Seen, Valued, and Essential

In this special episode of Inspire to Educate, we celebrate Early Childhood Education Appreciation Day by honoring the incredible work of early childhood educators everywhere. Whether you're a director, coordinator, or nurturing children right on the floor, this episode is a message of gratitude, appreciation, and motivation just for you.
Host Marcia Nicole, a dedicated educator with over 20 years in the early childhood sector, shares her personal experiences, reflections, and heartfelt thanks to all educators making a difference in the lives of young children every day. From the challenges to the triumphs, this episode is a reminder of just how vital your role is, not only in shaping the futures of the children you teach but in fostering inclusive, welcoming spaces for families and communities.
Tune in for an uplifting message filled with inspiration, connection, and recognition of your dedication to early learning. You are seen, you are appreciated, and most of all, you are making a difference. This episode is short, sweet, and designed to remind you why your work in early childhood education matters so much.
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Early Literacy Strategies with Stefanie Hohl

In this episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, we're diving into early literacy with special guest Stefanie Hohl, creator of the ABC See, Hear, Do program. Stefanie shares her expert insights on how movement can help young children develop essential reading skills and why incorporating multi-sensory learning is key to engaging active learners.
Join us as we discuss practical strategies that both educators and parents can use to make reading fun, engaging, and accessible for all types of learners. Whether you’re teaching in a classroom or supporting your child at home, this episode is packed with actionable tips and ideas to spark a love for reading in children ages 3-8.
Key Topics Covered:
The importance of movement in teaching early literacy skills.
How to support kids who struggle to sit still during reading activities.
Fun and creative ways to make reading engaging for reluctant readers.
Practical strategies for teachers and parents to use at home or in the classroom.
Connect with Stefanie:
Website: abcseeheardo.com and stefaniehohl.com/
Instagram: @‌stefaniehohl @abcseeheardo
Facebook: @‌stefaniehohl @abcseeheardo
X: @‌stefaniehohl @abcseeheardo
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode! We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback, so leave us a comment or review. Check out the show notes to connect with Stefanie and explore her amazing program.As always, keep inspiring, and we’ll see you in the next episode!
 

Uplifting Educators: Ana Valle Rivera’s Journey in Early Childhood Education

Get ready for an inspiring episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast! I’m thrilled to introduce you to Ana Valle Rivera—an ECE powerhouse who’s making waves in our field. Ana is the founder of Early Years Thriving, a dynamic speaker, a workshop facilitator, a consultant, a children’s book author, and a supermom of three!
Ana’s journey began in 2007, and she hasn’t looked back since. She’s now completing her Master of Professional Education at the University of Western Ontario, and she’s all about lifting up our ECE community. Ana shares how her experiences, from presenting impactful workshops on educator wellness to creating meaningful connections with other educators, fuel her passion for early childhood education.
But that’s not all! Ana’s business is all about cheering others on, and she’s here to tell us how supporting her fellow educators helps her stay inspired and overcome self-doubt. This episode is packed with energy, insight, and heart—everything you need to feel motivated and uplifted!
Connect with Ana Valle Rivera:
Website: earlyyearsthriving.com/
Instagram: @‌earlyyearsthriving
Don’t miss out—tune in to catch all the amazingness that Ana brings to the table

The Turnover Crisis: Why ECE Professionals Are Saying Goodbye

In this episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, we tackle the pressing issue of early childhood educators leaving the field at an alarming rate. Despite their essential role in shaping children's futures and laying the foundation for lifelong learning, many ECE professionals face significant challenges that lead them to exit their careers. We delve into the root causes of this turnover crisis, sharing personal stories from educators who have faced burnout, low wages, lack of support, and other systemic issues. We also examine the far-reaching consequences of this trend, including the negative impacts on children's development, family dynamics, and community stability.
We also highlight ways to support those who have left the field but still want to contribute to the education and care of young children. Join us as we uncover the complexities of this issue and explore actionable steps towards a more sustainable future for early childhood education. Let's work together to ensure that dedicated ECE professionals receive the recognition and support they deserve.
 
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