The Inspiring ECE Podcast

Mentorship in ECE: A Pathway to Growth with Kerry Drake

In this episode of The Inspiring ECE Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Kerry Drake, founder of KD Talks, an inspiring thought leader in early childhood education. With over 18 years of experience, Kerry is passionate about creating inclusive, equitable spaces and empowering educators to become reflective practitioners and compassionate leaders.
Join us as we dive deep into the vital role of mentorship in the field of early childhood education. We explore how mentorship shapes the profession, the qualities of a great mentor, and the journey from mentee to mentor. Whether you’re a veteran educator, a new graduate, or somewhere in between, this conversation is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration.
Tune in to learn how mentorship can elevate both mentors and mentees, build stronger teams, and shape the future of early childhood education.
Kerry Drake is the founder of KD Talks, a company dedicated to professional learning for educators. She is a Registered Early Childhood Educator, a Post-Secondary Professor, and holds a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies and Leadership. With over 18 years of experience spanning front-line education and post-secondary teaching, Kerry is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and reflective practice in education. She has inspired over 500 educators to become lifelong learners and compassionate leaders.
What We Discuss:
Kerry’s Journey: How her passion for early childhood education began and evolved into mentoring and professional speaking.
Mentorship and ECE:
The role of mentorship in supporting educators and shaping the field.
Qualities that make a great mentor.
The challenges and rewards of being a mentor.
Advice for Mentees: How mentees can foster strong mentor-mentee relationships.
Supporting Veteran Educators: Strategies to help experienced educators reignite their passion for mentorship.
The Future of ECE: Why mentorship is essential for the growth and sustainability of the profession.
Guest Links:
Website: www.kdtalks.ca
Instagram: @‌kdtalks0
Stay Connected:
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Celebrating Educators and Inspiring Change

This podcast was born out of a deep passion for celebrating and uplifting early childhood educators, leaders, and everyone who supports early learning.
In this kickoff episode, I’m taking a moment to reflect on our journey together, share why I started this podcast, and—most importantly—express my heartfelt gratitude to YOU. Whether you’ve been here since Season One or are just joining us now, this community wouldn’t be the same without your support, dedication, and belief in the transformative power of early childhood education.
Join me as we celebrate the incredible work educators do every day, look ahead to an inspiring season of growth and innovation, and discuss how mentorship, wellness, and positivity can help us all thrive.
Stay Connected:
Join our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/UQ7P8V4vTJTvrmiz/ to connect with other fabulous educators.
Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/
Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
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Wrapping Up the Year: Gratitude, Growth, and Looking Ahead

As the year comes to a close, this final episode of the year is all about reflection and gratitude. I want to thank each and every one of you for being part of this journey, for tuning in, sharing, and helping to build this incredible community. This podcast is more than a platform—it’s a space where we connect, support one another, and grow together.
In this episode, I reflect on the topics we’ve explored this year, from wellness and balance to rediscovering our joy in teaching. I also share what’s ahead for the podcast and invite you to be part of shaping the future by sharing your ideas, challenges, and guest suggestions.
Thank you for an amazing year—you’ve kept me motivated and inspired, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with you. Until next time, keep finding your joy, because you are making a difference every single day.
Stay Connected:
Join our Facebook Inspire to Educate Collective | Facebook to connect with other fabulous educators.
Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/
Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join Our Newsletter
Email: info@ispyrtoeducate.com

Round Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 3

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!

Round Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 2

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!

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/
Stay Connected:
Join our Facebook Inspire to Educate Collective | Facebook
Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/
Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
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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/
Stay Connected:
Join our Facebook Inspire to Educate Collective | Facebook to connect with other fabulous educators.
Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/
Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join Our Newsletter

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.
Stay Connected:
Join our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/UQ7P8V4vTJTvrmiz/ to connect with other fabulous educators.
Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/
Connect on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join Our Newsletter
Email: info@ispyrtoeducate.com