Everything Early Childhood

What does a Centre Director actually do all day?   This episode answers that question… honestly.   In this powerful and deeply relatable episode, Leeza walks you through the real, unfiltered reality of a director’s day, from the 5am phone calls, to compliance pressures, to emotional leadership, to the invisible load that is carried every single day.   This episode is for:   • Directors who need to feel seen, validated, and proud • Educators who want to better understand the role • Families who may not realise the responsibility behind the scenes Inside this episode, you’ll hear: • The true start and end of a director’s day • The balance between leadership, compliance, and care • The invisible mental and emotional load directors carry • Why a “smooth day” is actually a sign of strong leadership • A powerful reframe on what it means to be a director   This episode is one to share.   💛 If you’ve ever wondered what your director really does… or you are the director, this is for you.   👉 Send this to your team, your families, or anyone who needs to understand the reality of this role.

You say you’re overwhelmed. You say you’re burnt out. You say you can’t keep going like this…   But when the opportunity comes to do something different… You stay in the fire.   In this bold and honest solo episode, Leeza challenges one of the biggest patterns she is seeing across early childhood leadership right now, directors and owners who are stuck in reactive cycles, constantly putting out fires, even when they are given the tools to step out of them.   This episode dives into:   • Why leaders stay in reactive mode (even when they know better) • The hidden comfort of chaos and “feeling productive” • The difference between managing problems vs solving them • A powerful real-life client story (Katie) and what changed everything • Why leadership requires a different version of you   This is not a comfortable episode. But it is a necessary one.   If you’re ready to stop surviving your role and start leading forward… this one is for you.   💛 Want support to step out of the fire and into leadership? The Directors Academy mid-year intake is opening soon. Keep an eye out for more details.   🎧 Don’t forget to share this episode with another leader who needs to hear it.

Director Files 🎙 Alright… this month’s Director File had me laughing out loud when I read it. Not because it’s funny, but because I know so many directors dealing with this right now. A director wrote in about something she’s calling educator cancel culture. An educator walked into the office and said: “I refuse to work with her.” When the director suggested they talk through the issue, the response was: “Well maybe I should just resign then.” Over a conversation about pack-up. This one opens up a really interesting leadership discussion about: • conflict in teams • resignation threats • the difference between discomfort and psychological safety • and the role of a director when two adults don’t want to work together I unpack the whole situation in today’s Director Files episode.

Directors & Approved Providers… these questions might feel familiar. Each month inside our Everything Early Childhood community, I ask one simple question: “What leadership situation is sitting in the back of your mind right now?” And the responses are always incredibly honest. This month we unpack questions around: • recruitment and second-guessing decisions • educators doing the bare minimum • feeling responsible for everyone’s emotions • navigating difficult team dynamics • the invisible weight of leadership If you’ve ever had one of those moments where you think… “Is it just me?” This episode is for you. Because leadership in early childhood can feel heavy sometimes. But you’re not alone. And if you want to be part of these conversations, join our Everything Early Childhood Facebook group and submit your questions for next month. Because sometimes just talking it through changes everything. 🩷 Leeza

Early childhood leadership comes with significant responsibility, especially when laws and regulations change. In this episode, we unpack the latest updates to early childhood legislation and what they mean for leaders, educators, and approved providers. Regulatory change can feel overwhelming, but strong leadership means staying informed, responsive, and focused on what matters most: children’s safety, wellbeing, and quality outcomes. We explore: - What the regulatory changes involve - Why these updates matter for early learning services - How leaders can support teams through compliance shifts - Turning legal requirements into meaningful practice Doing the right thing isn’t just about meeting compliance, it’s about leading with integrity, clarity, and a commitment to continuous improvement. If you’re a centre director, nominated supervisor, educational leader, or early childhood professional navigating regulatory change, this episode is for you. 🎧 We Want to Do the Right Thing - Let’s Talk About the Changes

Head vs Heart: Why Leaders Struggle to Make Decisions Is there a decision sitting quietly in the background of your mind right now? In this episode, Leeza unpacks why leaders don’t actually struggle with decisions because they’re unclear, they struggle because they’re uncomfortable. Through the lens of early childhood leadership, we explore: – Cognitive dissonance (when your head and heart disagree) – Decision fatigue and executive function depletion – Loss aversion and fear of regret – Emotional avoidance and nervous system regulation – Why empathy without structure destabilises teams You’ll learn why unresolved decisions increase cognitive load, drain mental energy, and quietly impact service quality and how to categorise, regulate and move forward with steadiness. This is not about being harsher. It’s about being clearer. If you’re feeling mentally full, circling a conversation, or avoiding a boundary you know needs to be held, this episode will help you understand what’s actually happening beneath the surface. Because if you don’t structure your decisions… they will structure you.

There are questions most child care directors carry quietly. Not because they don’t care. Not because they aren’t capable. But because leadership can be lonely — and saying these things out loud can feel risky. In this episode, I’m naming the five questions directors are asking (but rarely say out loud) and unpacking why these questions keep coming up, especially in seasons of pressure, responsibility, and growth. We explore: The unspoken questions that sit beneath day-to-day leadership decisions Why these thoughts are so common among capable, committed directors What these questions are really telling us about support, safety, and sustainability How understanding them changes the way you lead yourself and others This episode isn’t about fixing anything. It’s about normalising the inner dialogue so many directors carry alone. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Is it meant to feel like this?” or “Why does this keep coming up for me?” You’re not failing. You’re human. 🎧 Press play if you want language, clarity, and reassurance, without judgement. www.platinumed.com.au with Leeza Browne

There’s a quiet shift that happens when a child care director stops carrying everything alone. Not overnight. Not dramatically. But deeply. In this episode, I’m talking about what actually changes when you stop being the one who holds it all together. The internal shift. The emotional relief. The way leadership starts to feel different in your body. We explore: Why directors end up carrying everything alone (even in supportive environments) What changes inside you when the load is shared How your leadership becomes steadier, clearer, and less reactive Why letting others in doesn’t weaken your role, it strengthens it What becomes possible when you stop surviving and start leading This episode is for the director who feels capable on the outside, but heavy on the inside. The one who keeps going, even when it’s costing her. Because when you stop carrying everything alone, leadership doesn’t fall apart. It evolves. 🎧 Press play if you’re ready to feel the difference. www.platinumed.com.au

Why confident early childhood directors still second-guess themselves Show Notes One of the most common things I hear from directors; even very capable, experienced ones, is this: “Why do I still doubt myself?” Not loudly. Quietly. Often at the end of a long day. In this episode, we unpack why self-doubt shows up so often in leadership, and why it isn’t a sign that something is wrong with you. Many directors assume confidence should come with experience. That once you’ve been in the role long enough, the second-guessing will stop. But leadership doesn’t work like that. As responsibility grows, uncertainty grows too especially when you’re holding it alone. In this conversation, I explore: why capable leaders often doubt themselves the most the difference between confidence and certainty how people-pleasing and emotional labour quietly erode self-trust why replaying decisions is often a sign of fatigue, not failure This episode isn’t about fixing self-doubt or giving you confidence tips. It’s about naming what’s really happening so you can stop turning normal leadership strain into personal self-criticism. If you’ve been questioning yourself more than usual lately, this episode is for you. You’re not failing. You’re not behind. And you’re not alone. https://www.platinumed.com.au/directorsacademy

There’s a part of early childhood leadership that rarely gets named. It’s not the paperwork. It’s not the compliance. And it’s not even the long days. It’s the invisible load. The mental tracking. The emotional holding. The constant decision-making. The responsibility that follows you home, into the shower, and into the quiet moments no one else sees. In this episode, I’m naming something I’ve seen again and again across early childhood services and something I carried myself for years before I realised it wasn’t a personal failure and learnt the techniques and systems to manage it. It was the role. This episode isn’t about fixing you. It’s about helping you understand why the load feels so heavy and why so many capable, committed directors quietly feel exhausted even when “nothing is technically wrong.” In this episode, we explore: What the invisible load actually is (and why it’s different to being busy) Why directors often feel mentally full before the day even begins The responsibility no one trains you for when you step into leadership Why this weight is carried silently and rarely spoken about How understanding the load is the first step to leading with clarity instead of constant overwhelm This conversation is here to say one simple thing: You’re not weak. You’re not failing. And you’re not alone. If you’ve ever wondered why leadership feels heavier than you expected this episode is for you. In the coming episodes, we’ll start unpacking what actually helps lighten this load not through motivation or hustle, but through training, systems, and support that directors were never given in the first place. Leeza Browne - Platinum Education Group - www.platinumed.com.au

Episode 0: Why I’ve been quiet and Why 2026 already feels heavy Welcome back to the Everything Early Childhood podcast. This episode is a little different. After a longer pause than planned, I wanted to return gently not with pressure, polish, or pretending everything is fine but with honesty. In this Episode 0, I share: Why I’ve been quiet over the past couple of months What’s been happening personally behind the scenes Why so many directors and leaders are already feeling exhausted and it’s only January The collective heaviness we’re noticing across the early childhood profession right now And why you don’t have to hold all of this on your own This episode isn’t about fixing anything. It’s about naming what’s real. If you’re a director, leader, or owner who feels like: you’re carrying more than ever, the responsibility feels heavier this year, or you’re doing your best but quietly wondering how sustainable this pace is… You are not alone. This episode marks the beginning of a new season of the podcast one that’s slower, deeper, and more intentional. A season focused on regulated leadership, the invisible load leaders carry, and what it really means to lead well without burning out. Thank you for being here. Thank you for continuing to show up for children, families, and teams, even when it’s heavy. More to come. Learn more If you’d like to explore how we support early childhood directors and leaders through mentoring, community, and practical leadership tools, you can visit us at: 👉 https://www.platinumeducationgroup.com.au Stay connected Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next episode, where we’ll dive into the invisible load directors carry and why it’s so exhausting.

Episode 6: “I Don’t Want Them to Hate Me – Leading With Care and Accountability” Have you ever put off a tough conversation because you didn’t want to hurt someone’s feelings—or worse, have them stop liking you? You’re not alone. In this episode, Leeza Browne unpacks one of the most confronting tensions every leader faces: how to lead with heart without losing accountability. Drawing from her upcoming book The Resilient Leader, Leeza shares: The personal story that taught her why comfort isn’t kindness. The psychology behind why we avoid accountability—and how empathy can become our biggest trap. The hidden costs of avoidance that quietly corrode culture and trust. The Three C’s of Accountable Leadership—Clarity, Consistency & Care. A real client transformation that proves accountability builds respect, not resentment. A short “Try This Tomorrow” challenge to help you put it into action immediately. You’ll also hear a quick science spotlight from Harvard research showing that regular accountability check-ins raise psychological safety by 28 percent—and a simple breathing moment to pause, reflect, and reset your leadership tone. Whether you’re an owner balancing multiple services or a director leading your first team, this conversation will help you trade “nice-boss” habits for the calm confidence of a leader who is both kind and clear.

Lesson 5: Letting Go of the Dream — and Becoming Who You’re Meant to Be After a big week attending the ECE Connect event, Leeza reflects on the emotions running through the early childhood profession right now — from funding divides and partial A&R processes to the growing feeling that we all need a more unified voice across preschool, long day care, OOSH, and family day care. In this heartfelt episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza gets personal — sharing how her lifelong dream of owning five early childhood centres transformed into something bigger than she ever imagined. This episode is for every owner, director, and leader who’s ever looked around and thought, “This isn’t how I pictured it.” It’s about the moment we realise that letting go isn’t giving up — it’s growing up. You’ll hear: - Real reflections from the recent ECE Connect event and the sector’s shifting landscape - The story behind Leeza’s five-centre dream and the moment she realised she’d outgrown it - A client transformation story about redefining success after achieving the “dream” - The psychology of identity, comparison, and imposter syndrome in leadership - A light-hearted gym analogy about showing up — even when you feel like you don’t belong - Reflection questions to help you reconnect with your own purpose and evolution Because sometimes, the dream changes. The system shifts. The plans don’t go to plan. And that’s not failure — that’s evolution. Reflection prompts from this episode: What dream or plan no longer fits the person you’re becoming? Where are you comparing your path to someone else’s? What lessons has the journey so far taught you about who you are? Key Quote: “You’re not behind. You’re becoming.” Connect with Leeza: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: @leezabrowne contact: [email protected] Podcast: Everything Early Childhood

Ever wonder why it feels so hard to ask for help — even when you know you need it? In this raw and real episode, Leeza gets honest about control, ego, and why so many early-childhood directors resist accepting support. She shares the psychology behind our need to “do it all,” the illusion of control that keeps us stuck, and her own stories, including the social-media post that took hours to make (and got zero likes 🙃). You’ll learn: ✨ Why letting go feels scary — and what’s really happening in your brain when you try. ✨ The three levels of letting go and how to move through them. ✨ How saying yes to help multiplies your capacity and builds true leadership resilience. This is your permission slip to park the ego, accept support, and finally lead with more ease, trust, and impact.

When everything falls apart — that’s when the real leadership begins. I’ll never forget the day I sat in my car outside the centre, completely numb, thinking: “If I stop, everything stops.” That moment changed everything. It taught me that my business wasn’t a reflection of me — it was a reflection of the strength of my systems. This week on the Everything Early Childhood podcast, I’m sharing: 🧱 the hardest season of my career, ⚙️ what it really means when systems fail, and 🔥 how to rebuild stronger than ever. 🎧 Listen to Episode: When Everything Fell Apart — Building Systems That Help You Rise Stronger 🌿 Join me in person this November at Platinum Ed HQ for our Reflection & Planning Experiences — the space I wish I had when I was rebuilding. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #LeezaBrowne #ResilientLeader #PlatinumEdHQ #ECELeadership #SystemsBreedFreedom #ECECommunity #ChildcareLeaders #WomenInLeadership

Leadership isn’t a marathon you have to crawl through — but too often, we wait until the health scare, the burnout, or the breakdown before we pause. This week on the Everything Early Childhood podcast, I’m sharing Lesson #2 from my upcoming book The Resilient Leader — the brutal truth about why so many leaders wait until it hurts to take care of themselves, and how we can shift that story. Inside this episode: 💛 The psychology of why we push ourselves past breaking point. 💛 My personal story of “waiting too long” before I listened to my own body. 💛 A client’s turning-point moment that changed how she led her service. 💛 Practical anchors to move, eat, sleep, and lead with intention — before the warning signs arrive. 👉 Tune in, reflect, and ask yourself: Am I leading like I want to last?

10 Leadership Tips from 10 Years: Tip 1 The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything As Platinum Education turns 10, I’m reflecting on the lessons learnt along the way. And the first one is a biggie: letting go of control. Because here’s the truth — 👉 When you do everything, your staff do nothing. 👉 Control feels safe, but it’s actually the most dangerous trap. 👉 You’re not a real leader until you’ve created other leaders. In this episode, I share the personal story of running my first service, a client story of transformation, and practical accountability measures that will help you let go without lowering standards. 🎧 Tune in for the leadership shift that changes everything.

Why We Rebranded – The Honest Story Behind the Shift and how to know if its time for you too! Show Notes: After nine years, countless services transformed, and a business that’s evolved far beyond where it started, Platinum Education Group has stepped into a whole new chapter. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the real story behind our rebrand the moments that led to it, the challenges along the way, and the meaning behind every detail of our new look. This isn’t just about colours and logos. It’s about alignment, evolution, and stepping boldly into a brand that finally reflects who we are now not who we were when we started. I’m sharing: 💬 The truth bomb from a friend that made me realise I’d outgrown my old brand 🧶 The 6-month branding journey (including concepts that didn’t make the cut) 🎨 The meaning behind the blush pink, navy blue, handwriting, hand, and ball of yarn ✅ 5 signs it might be time for you to rebrand your child care business 🏡 Why this episode is the last one I’ll ever record from my home office — and what’s next for our new HQ and event space Whether you’re a child care business owner, director, or leader, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your own brand, your own growth, and what it might look like to step into your next season. Links & Resources: Follow me on Instagram: @leezabrowne Learn more about Platinum Education Group: [Website Link] Share this episode and tag me — I’d love to hear which part resonated most!

In this deeply personal and unfiltered episode, Leeza invites you behind the curtain of leadership and business—into a raw season of emotional overwhelm, physical exhaustion, and personal growth. Instead of waiting until she’s “through it,” she speaks from the middle of the mess, sharing what it’s like to lead while navigating pain, trauma, and deep internal shifts. This episode is a vulnerable reminder that: You’re not alone when things feel heavy. You don’t need to have it all together to be worthy of support. And real leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. 🔍 In this episode, Leeza explores: The invisible weight leaders carry that no one sees How emotional burnout shows up in the body and heart The default pattern of holding space for others while abandoning ourselves Why it’s so hard to let people in—and what shifts when we do A reframing of strength, humanity, and leadership in the thick of hard seasons 🧠 Reflection Prompts: Where are you carrying invisible weight that no one sees? What would it feel like to stop holding it all on your own? Who could you let in, even just a little, today? 💌 Connect with Leeza: Instagram: @platinumeducationgroup Website: www.platinumed.com.au Podcast: Everything Early Childhood (available on all podcast platforms) If this episode resonated... Please share it with a fellow leader who needs a reminder that they’re not alone. And if you feel called, leave a review, it helps others find this space and feel seen too.

What’s Your Wobbly Chair? — The Small Discomforts We Learn to Live With (Until They Break Us) Host: Leeza Browne | Platinum Education Group Podcast: Everything Early Childhood 🎧 Episode Summary: In this reflective solo episode, Leeza shares a simple but powerful story about a wobbly chair — a metaphor for the things we tolerate in leadership and life until they finally fall apart. You’ll explore why early childhood leaders often live with daily discomforts, how those "wobbly chairs" show up in your service, and why it’s time to stop surviving and start steadying your foundations. This episode includes guided reflection prompts throughout, so you can identify what’s draining your energy, where you’ve been “just managing,” and what small step you can take to shift from tolerating to thriving. 📝 In This Episode, You’ll Reflect On: Why we often tolerate discomfort and avoid change How to spot your personal “wobbly chairs” in leadership What it’s costing you to leave small issues unresolved The danger of waiting until things break before we act How small tweaks can lead to big shifts in your energy and service quality One thing you can fix this week to feel more steady and supported 💬 Journal Prompts from the Episode: What’s one thing you’ve been tolerating in your leadership or service? What’s the cost — to you, your team, or your families — of leaving it unresolved? If nothing changed, what would the worst-case scenario be? 👉 Download it here (insert actual download link) 🎯 Want Support? If you’re ready to stop wobbling through leadership and build strong systems, steady teams, and calm days — let’s work together. 💻 Learn more at platinumedgroup.com or DM Leeza on Instagram @platinumeducationgroup 💖 Connect with Leeza: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: leezabrowne_plaitnumed LinkedIn: Leeza Browne

Child Protection Can’t Wait: What Every Educator Must Know Now with Holly-ann Martin, Founder of Safe4Kids For over 30 years, Holly-ann Martin has been a fearless voice for child protection in Australia. Starting her work back in the 1980s when all she had were magazines and honesty. Holly has witnessed firsthand how the risks to children have evolved. What was once simpler has now become more complex, with the rise of technology, access to pornography, and online predators creating new threats we can’t afford to ignore. In this powerful and timely episode, Holly shares surprising data, real stories, and the practical tools educators need to confidently support the children in their care. This isn’t about fear it’s about being prepared. From language to look-fors, Holly shows us how to embed protective education into daily life in a way that empowers both children and educators. Whether you're a leader, owner, or educator on the floor, this episode will leave you informed, equipped, and called to action because child protection can’t wait.

In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza is joined by Dr. Trevor Carlson, paediatric physiotherapist and founder of Therapy Kids, to explore the foundational stages of infant and toddler movement, from tummy time to crawling, standing, and those incredible first steps. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or carer, Trevor shares practical, down-to-earth guidance to support every child’s physical development confidently and playfully. If you’ve ever wondered when to worry, what to look for, or how to encourage movement in natural and engaging ways, this episode is a must-listen. To find out more about Therapy Kids: www.tummytimetowalking.com [email protected]

In this heart-centered episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza sits down with Vicki Scheafer, founder of Little Wise One, to explore how mindfulness and movement can transform early childhood spaces. Vicki shares her journey from teaching Kinder Dance in her local community to creating affirmation cards, guided journals, and her latest book, A Mindful Child, supporting educators and families to help children feel seen, heard, worthy, and loved. Together, we explore: ✨ Why mindfulness and movement are powerful tools for young children. ✨ Simple ways educators can integrate mindful moments into busy days. ✨ The importance of nurturing emotional intelligence and resilience in children. ✨ Practical tips for bringing calm, connection, and presence into your classrooms. ✨ Stories of the incredible impact mindfulness can have on a child’s wellbeing. Vicki’s warmth and wisdom will leave you feeling inspired to hold space for the little wise ones in your care and to embrace mindfulness in your own daily practice.

In this heartfelt solo episode, Leeza answers a powerful question submitted by one of our listeners: "How do you deal with the emotional rollercoaster of leadership in early childhood?" Let’s face it—leading in early childhood education isn’t just about policies, procedures, or planning cycles. It’s about people. And that means navigating daily emotional highs and lows that no leadership course can truly prepare you for. In this episode, Leeza shares 5 practical, real-life strategies she uses to stay grounded, present, and emotionally regulated—even on the toughest days. You'll hear: What causes emotional overwhelm in ECE leadership How to protect your energy while still being a supportive leader Simple mindset shifts that make a big difference Tools to help you respond, not react, in high-pressure moments Encouragement if you're feeling tired, torn, or tapped out Whether you’re a centre director, educational leader, or aspiring owner—this episode is for every leader who carries the emotional weight of the team and the children they serve. 🎧 Tune in now and give yourself permission to be human, while leading with heart and consistency.

In this episode, Leeza breaks down what every child care owner needs to know before June 30 — from the Worker Retention Payment and upcoming wage increases, to how to financially prepare your service for the year ahead. You’ll get: Clarity on the WRP deadlines and what to action now A real talk on what this funding really means for your business An EOFY checklist to get your finances sorted Tips to lead with both your head and heart in tough financial times Plus, Leeza shares what’s (still) unknown about 2026 and why knowing your numbers is knowing your future.

In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza Browne is joined by educator and author Stefanie Hohl, creator of ABC See, Hear, Do. A phonics program that integrates movement and play to help children learn to read. Designed for early learning professionals and parents, this episode explores how multi-sensory, movement-based approaches can better support young learners especially those who don’t thrive with traditional, sit-down methods. Together, Leeza and Stefanie unpack: What multi-sensory learning really looks like in action Why movement matters in early literacy development How to support children who are reluctant, disengaged, or always on the move What educators should stop doing when it comes to teaching reading How to foster confidence, joy, and curiosity through intentional literacy practices Whether you're an educational leader, director, or educator on the floor, this episode will shift the way you think about early reading and offer practical, child-led strategies that you can bring into your programs right away. 🎧 Tune in and let’s reimagine literacy—through the lens of movement, connection, and fun. 🌐 Learn more: abcseeheardo.com Follow Stefanie: @abcseeheardo

Five years ago, I stood in a hotel room, teary-eyed, heart racing, with a phone in my hand and finally shared the story I’d never said out loud. The truth behind why I do what I do. That moment, recorded in raw emotion after a breakthrough at a business event, changed everything. It was the first time I let myself be seen and truly shared my why. Until now, that video stayed hidden. But today, I’m sharing it with you. Because I know what it feels like to question your voice, to feel like you need to be perfect before you can lead, and to wonder if anyone else has felt the same. This episode is for the educator, the director, the owner, the human who is tired of hiding behind the scenes and is ready to reconnect with what matters most. Let this be your reminder that: You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Your story is powerful, even if it’s messy. Progress will always matter more than perfection. So here it is the moment that changed everything for me. Maybe it’s the nudge you need for your next one.

Is It Time to Sell? How to Know, Prepare, and Let Go with Grace Synopsis: In this heartfelt solo episode, Leeza Browne, founder of Platinum Education Group and trusted advisor to child care owners across Australia, opens up about one of the most difficult and emotional decisions in business: knowing when it’s time to sell your child care service. If you’ve found yourself whispering “Maybe I should just sell…”, this episode is for you. Leeza shares the signs it might be time to step away, the psychology behind why we default to that thought in tough seasons, and what the real process of preparing your service for sale looks like — emotionally and practically. She also vulnerably shares her own story of making the decision to sell her beloved service while growing Platinum Education Group, and how that moment became a turning point in both her purpose and legacy. 💡 Inside this episode: • How to know when it’s time to sell • Why “I just want to sell” is often a cry for relief • Leeza’s personal experience making the decision • What buyers are looking for and the 12-month prep window • What to do if selling isn’t the answer — but something still needs to change Whether you’re considering selling, shifting, or simply feeling stuck — you’re not alone. There is another way, and this episode will help you start exploring what’s next, with heart and clarity. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this. 📩 Want to talk it through? DM Leeza @platinumeducationgroup

🌿 NEW EPISODE – For the Ones Who Are Holding It All Together (Even When It Feels Like It’s Falling Apart) If you’ve ever sat in your car before a shift, taken a deep breath, and thought, *“I don’t know if I can do this today”… this one’s for you. 💔 This week on the Everything Early Childhood Podcast, we’re saying the things no one wants to admit out loud — the thoughts, doubts, and silent struggles that so many directors and child care owners carry in their hearts. 🎙 Episode: “The Things We’re All Thinking… But No One’s Saying” Inside, we unpack: ✨ Why shame keeps us silent ✨ The real thoughts you're not alone in having ✨ The myth of “having it all together” ✨ What to do when you're questioning it all ✨ And a gentle reminder: you’re not broken — you’re just human. You are allowed to feel overwhelmed. You are allowed to question. You are allowed to need a moment to breathe. And you are still enough — more than enough. 💛 If your heart needs a soft place to land today, come and join me for this raw, honest, soul-nourishing episode. Tag a leader who needs this reminder. You don’t have to do it all alone. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #HeartLedLeadership #ChildCareDirector #RealTalk #EarlyLearning #ECELeader #BurnoutRecovery #YouAreNotAlone #ECEPodcast #LeadershipWithHeart #ImperfectAndPowerful

Feeling constantly exhausted, emotionally drained, or like rest just isn’t doing the job anymore? You’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to be this way. In this powerful episode of Everything Early Childhood, Leeza is joined by Phil Wolffe, Workplace Wellbeing Specialist and Founder of Kinex Health, to unpack what’s really going on in our early childhood workplaces when it comes to stress, burnout, and recovery. Together, they explore: The current state of wellbeing in early learning services The difference between stress and burnout, and why it matters Why taking time off often leads to guilt—and how to flip that mindset The science behind recovery and what your body and brain truly need Practical steps leaders and educators can take today to create healthier, more sustainable environments Whether you're a centre owner, director, or educator, this episode will help you reframe what wellbeing really means and how we can do better—for ourselves and our teams. 💼 Connect with Phil Wolffe: 🌐 Website: www.kinexhealth.com.au 📧 Email: [email protected] 🔗 LinkedIn: Phil Wolffe

In this honest and unscripted mini episode, recorded mid-safari during a much-needed break, Leeza opens up about the internal struggle many leaders face: the guilt of resting. She shares personal stories from her leadership journey, the burnout she faced when she gave too much of herself, and the powerful mindset shifts that have helped her redefine consistency, success, and boundaries. If you’re a passionate business owner, director, or educator who’s been pushing through, this episode is your permission to pause, reconnect with your why, and remember that rest is part of the work — not a reward for it. In this episode, Leeza explores: The personal struggle of setting boundaries (even on holiday) Why rest is essential to sustainable leadership Questions to ask yourself when you feel pulled in too many directions How to reconnect with your purpose when you feel overwhelmed Let’s connect: Instagram: @platinumedgroup Website: www.platinumed.com.au Email: [email protected]

Why Bother Aiming for Exceeding? In this powerful follow-up episode, Leeza Browne opens up the conversation around striving for Exceeding in early childhood services—and why giving up on high standards comes at a cost we can’t afford. You’ll hear real feedback from the community, honest reflections about where educators and leaders are really at, and practical strategies for getting your team on board the journey toward quality. This episode dives into: Why Exceeding isn’t about perfection—it’s about purpose What the NQS ratings really mean (and how to explain them clearly) How to train and inspire your team when they’re unsure or overwhelmed Why standards matter, and who we’re really doing this for What to do when your team has never seen another service Plus, Leeza shares a moment from the floor that reminded her just how important it is to meet people where they’re at, and help them see what exceeding looks like. Connect with Leeza Browne: Website: www.platinumed.com.au Instagram: @platinumeducationgroup LinkedIn: Leeza Browne Email: [email protected] If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to leave a review or share it with someone in your early childhood circle. Let’s raise the bar, together.

In this powerful episode, host Leeza Browne from Platinum Ed is joined by the incredible Kerra-Lee Wescombe, Director of Connect.Ed, to explore the critical role of trauma-informed practice in early childhood education. With over 10 years of experience across therapeutic care, consulting, and professional development, Kerra-Lee shares why connection—not control—is key to supporting children’s development and wellbeing. We unpack the staggering statistic that 2 in 3 children experience trauma before the age of five, and what this means for educators and early learning environments. We also dive into: What trauma-informed practice really looks like in early childhood Why behaviourism often misses the mark How services can access support and training The power of body-based strategies to support regulation And why educators should never feel like they have to do it alone Whether you're a centre director, educator, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge your thinking, uplift your spirit, and leave you with practical insights to create safer, more connected spaces for children to thrive.

The Four Corners episode Betrayal of Trust – Child Care in Crisis has once again put early childhood education under the microscope. While it revealed serious failures that demand accountability, it also painted an incomplete and fear-driven picture of our sector. In this powerful and solution-focused episode, I address: ✅ What the Four Corners episode got right—and what was missing. ✅ The public release of compliance reports (Standing Order 52) and why it’s concerning. ✅ How services can respond to increased scrutiny and protect their educators. ✅ The real issue—training & workforce conditions—and why fixing this is the key to real change. ✅ How we take back the narrative by sharing stories of the incredible educators who go above and beyond. Now, more than ever, we need to stand up for children, educators, and the future of early childhood education. If we don’t tell our story, someone else will—and we can’t afford to let fear define our profession. Let’s talk solutions. Let’s advocate for change. Let’s remind the world why early childhood education matters.

In this episode we explore the powerful analogy of "emptying the sandpit" and how it applies to setting up strong systems and structures in your service. Just like refreshing the sandpit create a clean foundation for play, resetting expectations, re-inducting staff and reinforcing key knowledge helps teams start fresh and aligned. we'll cover: - why assuming everyone knows nothing (even seasoned educators) sets the team up for success - the importance of re-inductions and refreshing the team knowledge - Strategies for embedding training and retaining information - Practical steps to ensure systems and processes stay strong throughout the year Tune in to discover how you can refresh, realign and build a strong foundation for your teams success!

🎙 Everything Early Childhood Podcast – Featuring Ray Everest 🚀 Deep Dive into Early Childhood Business, Success & Advocacy In this powerful episode, I sit down with Ray Everest, co-founder of Future Focus in New Zealand, for an eye-opening conversation on the future of early childhood education. Ray brings a unique perspective with his background as a high school teacher, principal, and early learning centre owner. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges and transformations in children over the years, he’s now leading the charge to unite early childhood services and provide critical support for early intervention. What can we do to make a real impact? 🌱 Listen in as we explore: 🔹 The business of early childhood and setting up for success 🔹 How manifestation plays a role in leadership and growth 🔹 The advocacy movement that’s reshaping support for early childhood services 🔹 The power of uniting services for better outcomes for children 💡 Watch this space—if anyone is leading the charge, be thankful it’s Ray! 🎧 Tune in now! This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about making a lasting difference in early childhood education. #EverythingEarlyChildhood #FutureFocus #EarlyChildhoodAdvocacy #ChildhoodSuccess #Manifestation #EarlyIntervention #Leadership

Jake’s departure marks a turning point, and this episode captures the highs, lows, and everything in between in his Journey at Platinum Education. Tune in for an unfiltered discussion about the spirit of authenticity, the lessons learned, and how child care leaders can embrace change with grace and growth.

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the core of educational leadership in early childhood education. We unpack the essential role of the educational leader within early childhood services, exploring how to simplify educational practices and the learning cycle for greater impact. Facing challenges like overcomplicated systems and lack of support? Discover practical strategies to create simple, meaningful, and high-quality educational programs. Learn how to effectively communicate your educational approach to parents and stakeholders, foster a collaborative team environment, and engage with the community. Whether you're an early childhood owner, leader, or educator, this episode is packed with insights to empower you in your role and enhance professional development in the field of early childhood education.

In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, we’re thrilled to welcome Amber Jayne, early childhood education expert, founder of The Loving Start Learning Centres, and creator of The Loving Start Way Community. Amber takes us through her incredible journey from a child care business owner to a global advocate for nurturing, empowering, and elevating early childhood services. She shares the highs, lows, and pivotal lessons she’s learned along the way, revealing the trials and tribulations that shaped her unique, love-centered approach. Tune in to hear Amber’s inspiring story, her vision for the future of early childhood education, and practical insights on how to create meaningful, heartfelt connections with children, families, and educators. Whether you’re an early childhood professional, parent, or just curious about the journey, this episode is filled with wisdom and warmth you won’t want to miss!To find out more about Amber - www.thelovingstartway.com

In this podcast episode, we chat with Hayes Greenfield, author of Creative Sound Play for Young Learners, about the powerful role sound can play in early childhood education. Hayes shares practical ways to use creative sound play during transitions, enhancing classroom communities, social-emotional learning, and executive function skills. We also explore inspiring stories of how sound breaks down barriers and unleashes creativity in children, highlighting the magic of sound and its benefits for their development as well as sharing his story about how he got into teaching music and the many wonderful projects he has been part of. This episode is filled with actionable ideas to enrich your teaching toolkit. One not to miss!

In this episode of "Inside our roles in Early Childhood," we take a closer look at the various roles within a child care setting and explore the unique responsibilities that each one entails. From the operations manager to the trainee, every position is essential in creating a nurturing, safe, and effective environment for young learners. Using the analogy of a living, breathing body, we break down how each role functions like a vital organ, working in harmony to ensure the overall health and success of the center. Whether you’re a seasoned director, a passionate educator, or new to the field, this episode will help you understand the importance of your role, the impact you make, and how every contribution supports the growth and development of the children in your care. Join us as we simplify the complexities of child care roles and celebrate the many hats we wear to make a difference in early childhood education.

In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, host Leeza Browne tackles "Mid-Year Burnout Blues: Refresh and Reenergise Your Leadership." Learn how child care owners and business leaders can identify the early signs of burnout and implement effective strategies to combat it. Discover practical tips for taking breaks, delegating tasks, prioritising self-care, and reconnecting with your purpose. This episode provides valuable insights to help you refresh your routine and reenergise your leadership, ensuring the long-term success of your child care business. Tune in for actionable advice to overcome mid-year burnout and lead with renewed energy.

In this episode of Everything Early Childhood, host Leeza Browne dives into "Breaking Free from People Pleasing: Leading with Confidence in Early Childhood Education." Discover how child care owners and business leaders can overcome people-pleasing tendencies to lead with authenticity and strength. Learn practical strategies to set boundaries, build self-confidence, and make decisions that align with your mission and values. This episode is packed with insights to help you enhance your leadership skills and ensure your centre thrives. Tune in to lead your child care business with confidence and clarity.

In this heartfelt episode of the Everything Early Childhood podcast, host Leeza Browne welcomes Jenny, a seasoned early childhood professional and dedicated advocate for children with disabilities. With over 20 years of personal and professional experience, Jenny shares her inspiring journey of raising two children with disabilities and navigating the complex diagnosis process. Listeners will gain valuable insights as Jenny discusses the critical early signs of disabilities and the importance of early intervention. She passionately emphasizes the role of effective communication and support for families during the initial stages of recognizing and understanding disabilities. Jenny's journey from diagnosis to advocacy is filled with wisdom, practical advice, and heartfelt stories that highlight the challenges and triumphs faced by families and professionals alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of disability support in early childhood and learn how to better support families on this important journey.

Host: Leeza Browne, Founder of Platinum Education Group Episode Description: In this episode, Leeza Browne explores the controversial side of collaborative leadership, examining whether trying to please everyone is actually undermining your team’s productivity. Drawing from the saying, "a camel is a committee's horse," Leeza alongside Jake delves into the potential pitfalls of collaborative leadership models and why having a key decision-maker is essential for success.

Join us in this inspiring episode as we delve into the remarkable journey of Bernadette D'Aprile, the visionary mind behind Kreation Kidz. From overcoming setbacks to building an empire, Bernadette shares her story of resilience, collaboration, and innovation in the child care industry. Discover how she turned challenges into opportunities, leveraging her strengths and the strengths of her team to create a thriving business. Whether you're considering starting a child care service or already operating one, Bernadette's insights offer invaluable lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the power of perseverance.