Founder Story: Being Bold & Breaking the Mold with Susan McGhee, Trailblazing CEO of Flexible Childcare Services Scotland: When Childcare Meets Social Justice & Families Can Flourish

The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius

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What does it take to revolutionize a childcare system that hasn't changed in decades? In this candid conversation, Susan McGhee – the vibrant, self-described "thrawn" (delightfully stubborn) founder & CEO of Flexible Child Care Services Scotland – reveals how her innovative pay-by-the-hour childcare model is transforming family lives across Scotland.
With 25% of Scottish children growing up in poverty, Susan recognized that traditional childcare structures were failing families with irregular work hours or financial constraints. Her solution? A genuinely flexible model allowing parents to book and pay for only the hours they need – saving families between £2,000-£5,000 annually while creating pathways back to employment, education, and economic independence.
But this isn't just about childcare. Susan shares powerful stories of how small innovations – like a "take what you need, give what you can" coat rail – create dignity-centered support for families facing multiple challenges. As she puts it: "We don't want people to just get by. We want people to flourish." The impact is measurable: nearly £2 million kept in the pockets of Scotland's most vulnerable families last year alone.
Through personal reflections on loss, resilience, and her own journey overcoming insecurities, Susan demonstrates the authentic leadership driving her organization's success. From surviving the pandemic weeks after launch to now employing nearly 200 people and supporting approximately 1,000 families, the five-year journey of FCSS reveals what's possible when we challenge outdated systems with bold, practical solutions.
Ready to rethink how childcare could work in your community? Connect with Susan on social media or visit fcss.org.uk to learn more about implementing flexible childcare models that truly meet families' needs.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

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Chapters

1. Welcome to the Good Listening To Show (00:00:00)

2. Susan McGee and Flexible Childcare (00:07:29)

3. Family Influences and Personal Journey (00:14:44)

4. Inspiration and Social Entrepreneurship (00:24:54)

5. Purpose, Passion and Making a Difference (00:30:37)

6. Doing the Right Thing and Final Reflections (00:39:34)