374 Core Values Aren’t Cute — They’re Critical

The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

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Think your laminated list of “integrity, passion, and excellence” is enough to build a thriving childcare culture? Think again, friend.

In this fire-starting episode, we’re calling out the fluff and diving into the real work of defining, living, and leading from your core values. Because values aren’t meant to be Pinterest-worthy—they’re meant to shape how you hire, coach, celebrate, and even fire.

We’re breaking down how to co-create authentic values with your team (yes, even the quiet ones), embed them into everyday routines, and spot when your culture is sliding off the rails. No sugarcoating, just straight-up strategies for directors who are done pretending and ready to lead with purpose.

✨ Warning: This episode may cause uncomfortable self-reflection, major "aha" moments, and a strong urge to join our Trailblazers Coaching Program (launching in July!).

🔥 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why your core values can’t be a copy-paste job from Pinterest
• How to co-create meaningful, authentic values with your team
• Ways to use your values to hire, fire, coach, and celebrate
• What it looks like when values are being faked or forgotten
• How to make your values part of your daily routines
• What it really means to lead from your values, not just post them

🎯 Ready to build a culture that actually walks its talk?
Join the Trailblazers Coaching Program — our signature leadership program for early childhood directors who are done with surface-level leadership and ready to build bold, values-driven teams.

🗓️ Launching July!

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