About Us

About Childcare Conversations

Real Conversations. Real Leaders. Real Solutions.

Childcare Conversations is the go-to podcast for directors and owners who want practical strategies, expert insights, and inspiration to lead with confidence. Hosted by Kate Woodward Young, M.Ed., and Carrie Casey, the show digs into the real challenges and real wins of running childcare and after-school programs.

With nearly 300 episodes and over 10,000 programs served nationwide, Kate and Carrie bring decades of industry experience to every conversation — delivering actionable advice you can put to work right away. Whether you’re growing enrollment, leading your team, or navigating today’s toughest challenges, Childcare Conversations is here to help you thrive.

Why 1000's tune in Every Week

Actionable strategies for directors, owners, and childcare entrepreneurs

Uplifting stories and real-world lessons from decades in the field

Insights on leadership, licensing, budgets, staff morale & more

Expert guests who bring fresh ideas and proven tactics

A warm, relatable vibe that feels like talking with trusted friends


Why we podcast

We podcast to create a trusted space where childcare and after-school leaders can hear real conversations, gain real solutions, and feel supported in the challenges and wins of running programs.

Our goal is to equip directors and owners with the insights, strategies, and confidence they need to lead with impact and shape the future of early education.

Our Programs

We offer a range of training and credentialling programs to support early childhood leaders at every stage of their careers:

Masterclasses

A focused training session where directors and owners get practical strategies they can use right away to boost enrollment, strengthen their team, and grow profits.

Mastermind

A small-group coaching program that provides tools, accountability, and peer support to help you implement systems, scale sustainably, and lead with confidence.

ABC Growth System

Helping childcare owners build Authority, strengthen Business systems, and coach their team with clarity so their centers run profitably and sustainably.

We’ve authored 10 books for early childhood administrators and professionals, each designed to provide practical strategies and proven solutions. Explore our full collection — plus the books we recommend — on the Bookshelf, or find our titles directly on Amazon.

Our Guests

"Talking with Kate and Carrie was fun and inspiring! Thank you both!

– Cindy Lehnhoff, NCCA

“You know I'm high energy but Kate and Carrie from Childcare Conversations podcast had me running to keep up! Great time interacting with passionate EC professionals!"

– Vernon Mason, Jr.

“Great podcast for anyone in the ECE Field.”

– Melissa McCall, Episode 265

Two Vissions. Two Voices

With over 60 years of combined experience in early childhood education and leadership, Kate Woodward Young, M.Ed. and Carrie Casey are more than podcast hosts — they’re nationally recognized mentors, coaches, and advocates for quality childcare.

Through their work with the Director Success Academy and Texas Director (a state-approved credentialing program), Kate and Carrie have helped train and certify over 10,000 directors across the U.S.

But their impact goes far beyond credentials.

They’ve:

  • Authored multiple books that center leadership with heart

  • Spoken on national stages to inspire change and connection

  • Coached hundreds of owners and directors to:

    • Keep classrooms full — consistently

    • Build thriving, empowered teams

    • Lead with clarity, confidence, and sustainability

    • Every episode they host brings a blend of humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom — because they know the childcare field is both beautiful and complex, and leadership doesn’t have to be lonely.

Why Choose All Texas Director?

  • Pioneers in Training:

    Developed the first weekend format Director Credential course in 2002 and the first online Director Credential program in 2005, accommodating the demanding schedules of childcare professionals.

  • Proven Success:

    Over 70% of our graduates remain in the early childhood education field for more than three years, reflecting the effectiveness and impact of our training.

  • Comprehensive Resources:

    Our courses are enriched with videos, podcasts, and additional materials to support diverse learning styles and deepen understanding.

  • Award-Winning Publications:

    Authored eight award-winning, best-selling books on childcare business success, leadership, and financial management.

  • Top-Ranked Podcast:

    Our podcast, 'Childcare Conversations with Kate & Carrie', is ranked in the Top 5 in the industry and the Top 25% of all podcasts worldwide.

Our Impact: Transforming Childcare Leadership Nationwide

Pioneers in childcare director training, creating the first weekend credential format (2002) and the first online Director Credential program (2005) to provide greater access to professional development.

Mastermind

We are proud to offer specialized coaching programs to further support childcare leaders:

The Edge Mastermind
The Edge is an ongoing mastermind for childcare owners and directors who want to gain the advantage in business and in life. With a quarterly focus that follows the natural cycles of the industry—enrollment, staffing, profitability—you’ll always be working on what matters most right now. You can join at any time and stay as long as you want, gaining expert coaching, accountability, and a supportive peer community to help you lead with confidence, balance, and results.

Expand your influence in the childcare industry.

Connect With Us

Podcast

Tune into Childcare Conversations with Kate & Carrie for insights and discussions on relevant topics in early childhood education.

Keynote Speaking

Learn more about our keynote presentations and how we can inspire your organization or event.

Facebook Group

Join our network of childcare professionals

Social Media

We believe that with the right training and support, you can transform your passion for early childhood education into impactful leadership. Join us and take the next step in your professional journey.

Have questions or ready to get started?