RedCircle VERIFY_TOKEN_e1a038ac-5ff2-4c4c-b4f2-a4174f99ad7e -- Rendered At Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:31:03 +0000 ECE Unhinged https://redcircle.com/shows/eceunhinged en Brittany and Crystal Brittany and Crystal ECE UNHINGED - A Podcast for Today's Early Childhood Educator: Real stories, raw conversations and a little chaos from todays early childhood educators. We talk about burnout, behavior and the joys of teaching small humans-- honesty and off the rails conversations guaranteed, and as a bonus we are doing this from the comfort of our car and the view of the mountains. So ride along with us for an amazing journey ahead! 😂 Next episode drops Wednesday, January 7, 2026: Funny, real classroom stories submitted by educators — the moments you couldn’t make up if you tried e1a038ac-5ff2-4c4c-b4f2-a4174f99ad7e ECE UNHINGED A Podcast for Today’s Early Childhood Educator

Real stories, raw conversations, and chaotic, messy, unhinged energy from two early childhood educators with nearly 50 years of combined experience and absolutely no desire to sugarcoat anything. We’re talking burnout, behavior charts that should’ve been banned, impossible expectations, admin nonsense, and the real, ridiculous, beautiful chaos of teaching small humans.

New episodes drop biweekly, each followed by After Dark where you can call in or leave prerecorded SpeakPipe messages to be heard on the show. This is where it gets extra spicy, the gloves are off, the stories get wilder, and nothing is off limits.

If you’ve ever cried in your car after work, rage texted your coworker, or said “I cannot do this again tomorrow” and still showed up anyway… yeah, this is your podcast.

All of the updates and topics are in our Facebook group ECEUnhinged Podcast - Listeners Lounge

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18ZTQFrJNu/

]]> episodic no Brittany and Crystal workingmom1432@gmail.com https://feeds.redcircle.com/e1a038ac-5ff2-4c4c-b4f2-a4174f99ad7e no full From "Rescue" to Sustainability: Inside the 20-Year Career of Ida Bauer From "Rescue" to Sustainability: Inside the 20-Year Career of Ida Bauer Brittany and Crystal Would you charge parents 6 cents a minute for tuition? Retired University Director Ida Bauer joins the ECE Unhinged podcast to talk about her career and how she built a center from the ground up.

]]> <p>Would you charge parents 6 cents a minute for tuition? Retired University Director Ida Bauer joins the ECE Unhinged podcast to talk about her career and how she built a center from the ground up. </p> ba40e384-262d-49ac-ad1a-902241d87462 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:00:21 +0000 1596 no full Teachers After Dark-Toddler Logic Teachers After Dark-Toddler Logic Brittany and Crystal This week on Teachers After Dark, Crystal and I are diving into the hilarious, bizarre, and downright unhinged world of toddler logic. We aren't talking about typical classroom management here; we're talking about the moment a child has a full-blown meltdown because their grilled cheese was cut into squares instead of triangles.

​If you've ever felt like you were negotiating with a tiny, unreasonable terrorist when all you wanted was for them to eat their lunch, this is the episode for you. We’re unpacking those "unsolicited confessions" about their parents' habits, why they think the shower is a human car wash, and how we keep it together when the "laws of logic" are completely suspended.

​Grab a drink and join us for the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes stories we usually only share with each other.

​#ECEUnhinged #TeachersAfterDark #ToddlerLogic #EarlyChildhoodEducation #UnhingedMedia

]]> <p>This week on Teachers After Dark, Crystal and I are diving into the hilarious, bizarre, and downright unhinged world of toddler logic. We aren&#39;t talking about typical classroom management here; we&#39;re talking about the moment a child has a full-blown meltdown because their grilled cheese was cut into squares instead of triangles.</p><p>​If you&#39;ve ever felt like you were negotiating with a tiny, unreasonable terrorist when all you wanted was for them to eat their lunch, this is the episode for you. We’re unpacking those &#34;unsolicited confessions&#34; about their parents&#39; habits, why they think the shower is a human car wash, and how we keep it together when the &#34;laws of logic&#34; are completely suspended.</p><p>​Grab a drink and join us for the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes stories we usually only share with each other.</p><p>​#ECEUnhinged #TeachersAfterDark #ToddlerLogic #EarlyChildhoodEducation #UnhingedMedia</p> 5abf4b69-e12c-4216-a57a-34355b088508 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 01:36:20 +0000 1445 no full Teachers After Dark: Why Is This A Thing? Teachers After Dark: Why Is This A Thing? Brittany and Crystal Many teachers feel frustrated by outdated practices in early childhood education. Brittany and Crystal explore the hidden reasons behind these routines, revealing how understanding their purpose can empower educators to advocate for change. From strict diapering policies to unnecessary safety rules, discover how these practices impact workload and burnout. Gain insights on fostering child-centered routines and challenging norms to improve quality care.

#EarlyChildhoodEd #TeachingTips #Childcare #EducationReform #Podcast #BrittanySpeaks #TeacherSupport


]]> <p>Many teachers feel frustrated by outdated practices in early childhood education. Brittany and Crystal explore the hidden reasons behind these routines, revealing how understanding their purpose can empower educators to advocate for change. From strict diapering policies to unnecessary safety rules, discover how these practices impact workload and burnout. Gain insights on fostering child-centered routines and challenging norms to improve quality care.</p><p>#EarlyChildhoodEd #TeachingTips #Childcare #EducationReform #Podcast #BrittanySpeaks #TeacherSupport</p><p><br></p> dd1cb2b5-3c89-4c0f-87a2-188c7aa47ace https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Thu, 28 May 2026 00:19:51 +0000 2202 no full The Real Cost of Care: An unfiltered look at Private ECE Ownership with Katie McDonald The Real Cost of Care: An unfiltered look at Private ECE Ownership with Katie McDonald Brittany and Crystal In episode 2 of our wage transparency series we're joined by center owner Katie McDonald for a raw no-filter conversation about the financial realities of running a private preschool. From the weight of commercial rent to the impossible struggle of balancing fair wages with tight margins, we're exposing the truth behind the "secretive" ECE industry.

#EarlyEdInsights

#TeacherSupport

#EducationReform

#RespectTeachers

#SystemicChange

#ChildhoodEducation

#TeacherVoices

#EducationMatters


]]> <p>In episode 2 of our wage transparency series we&#39;re joined by center owner Katie McDonald for a raw no-filter conversation about the financial realities of running a private preschool. From the weight of commercial rent to the impossible struggle of balancing fair wages with tight margins, we&#39;re exposing the truth behind the &#34;secretive&#34; ECE industry.</p><p>#EarlyEdInsights</p><p>#TeacherSupport</p><p>#EducationReform</p><p>#RespectTeachers</p><p>#SystemicChange</p><p>#ChildhoodEducation</p><p>#TeacherVoices</p><p>#EducationMatters</p><p><br></p> ade6426d-2803-4aaf-ac1f-6d0587fa0129 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 27 May 2026 23:54:17 +0000 3283 no full Crisis In The Sandbox- POC Crisis In The Sandbox- POC Brittany and Crystal Proof of concept , trial episode! Let us know what you think and send in your story!

Don't panic, Our regular episodes are staying the same! Crystal and I are still bringing you the same ECE Unhinged content you know and love but today we are dropping something a little different and fun! Welcome to our new cinematic audio docuseries format! We wanted to find a way to get everyone's voices out there and stories told but still protect the privacy of our educators. Let us know if you like this and we can tell your story the same way.

]]> <p>Proof of concept , trial episode! Let us know what you think and send in your story!</p><p>Don&#39;t panic, Our regular episodes are staying the same! Crystal and I are still bringing you the same ECE Unhinged content you know and love but today we are dropping something a little different and fun! Welcome to our new cinematic audio docuseries format! We wanted to find a way to get everyone&#39;s voices out there and stories told but still protect the privacy of our educators. Let us know if you like this and we can tell your story the same way. </p> d65e0f88-e34f-450a-b74c-7dbed90089ca https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 20 May 2026 20:25:33 +0000 694 no full Teachers After Dark - Self Care Teachers After Dark - Self Care Brittany and Crystal What do you do for self care?


]]> <p>What do you do for self care?</p><p><br></p> 24fb7927-91f9-4e9a-a35e-4b27413d2a85 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:26 +0000 637 no full Wage Transparency_ Inside The Books Episode 1 Wage Transparency_ Inside The Books Episode 1 Brittany and Crystal Join us for a conversation as we talk to a childcare director in New Orleans and see what keeps her center going!

]]> <p>Join us for a conversation as we talk to a childcare director in New Orleans and see what keeps her center going!</p> 1db86e86-5b80-4bf3-a88b-a3a3b0470603 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 13 May 2026 11:00:17 +0000 4419 no full The Elephant in The Classroom: Lets Talk ECE Pay The Elephant in The Classroom: Lets Talk ECE Pay 12 1 Brittany and Crystal In this episode of "ECE Unhinged," hosts Brittany and Crystal introduce a new series focused on wage transparency in early childhood education. They discuss the financial challenges faced by teachers, such as low wages despite high tuition fees. The series aims to uncover where the money goes by interviewing various center owners and directors. They emphasize the need for transparency and open discussion without blaming directors, who often struggle to pay fair wages due to financial constraints.

The episode also includes a segment called "Red Flag Green Flag," where they discuss various classroom scenarios and their implications. The hosts encourage listeners to participate by sharing their questions and experiences, aiming to create a supportive community for educators.


]]> <p><span>In this episode of &#34;ECE Unhinged,&#34; hosts Brittany and Crystal introduce a new series focused on wage transparency in early childhood education. They discuss the financial challenges faced by teachers, such as low wages despite high tuition fees. The series aims to uncover where the money goes by interviewing various center owners and directors. They emphasize the need for transparency and open discussion without blaming directors, who often struggle to pay fair wages due to financial constraints.</span></p><p><span>The episode also includes a segment called &#34;Red Flag Green Flag,&#34; where they discuss various classroom scenarios and their implications. The hosts encourage listeners to participate by sharing their questions and experiences, aiming to create a supportive community for educators.</span></p><p><br></p> d7a27250-6ba8-497f-a316-d3f7638ee0f6 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:00:25 +0000 1655 no full How Parenting Expectations Have Changed Over 35 Years—And What We Lost in the Shift How Parenting Expectations Have Changed Over 35 Years—And What We Lost in the Shift 11 1 Brittany and Crystal An Interview with a parent from the past!

Most parents don't realize how much early childhood education has shifted in the last 35 years-sometimes for the worse. In this eye-opening episode, Chris, a father with over three decades of experience, reveals how childcare expectations, teaching practices, and industry standards have changed since the days when kids played outside all day and structure meant discipline, not coddling.Discover the surprising differences in preschool programs: from a $220/month structure-focused environment to today's high-cost, trauma-informed franchises. Chris shares personal stories of how expectations around manners, leadership, and independence have eroded, and how modern parenting trends now often weaken the very skills teachers and parents once cultivated effortlessly. He dives into unsettling trends like the excessive reliance on technology, the rise of franchise daycare models driven by profit motives, and the impact of COVID-era policies that removed community ties and parental involvement.Key insights include:

  • Why today’s childcare often misses fundamental life skills like self-reliance, responsibility, and resilience.
  • The clash between parent perceptions of professionalism versus the reality of teaching young children—where they're seen as little sponges rather than mini adults.
  • How recent policies, technology, and staffing shortages are undermining teacher authority and safety, and what this means for child development.
  • The disturbing shift from hands-on teaching to checkbox-driven assessments, capturing every moment on tablets and cameras, often at the expense of genuine connection.
  • The emotional toll on parents and teachers alike, and the importance of trust, structure, and community in early education.

This candid conversation underscores a critical truth: early childhood education shapes the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow. Ignoring these fundamental shifts risks a generation of kids unprepared for real life, with teachers burned out and parents overwhelmed.Perfect for educators, parents, and childcare administrators-if you're concerned about our kids' future and want to reconnect with their essential needs, this episode is a must-listen. Chris’s insights challenge us to rethink what quality childcare really means-and why fostering independence, discipline, and resilience starts long before kindergarten.

]]> <p>An Interview with a parent from the past!</p><p>Most parents don&#39;t realize how much early childhood education has shifted in the last 35 years-sometimes for the worse. In this eye-opening episode, Chris, a father with over three decades of experience, reveals how childcare expectations, teaching practices, and industry standards have changed since the days when kids played outside all day and structure meant discipline, not coddling.Discover the surprising differences in preschool programs: from a $220/month structure-focused environment to today&#39;s high-cost, trauma-informed franchises. Chris shares personal stories of how expectations around manners, leadership, and independence have eroded, and how modern parenting trends now often weaken the very skills teachers and parents once cultivated effortlessly. He dives into unsettling trends like the excessive reliance on technology, the rise of franchise daycare models driven by profit motives, and the impact of COVID-era policies that removed community ties and parental involvement.Key insights include:</p><ul><li>Why today’s childcare often misses fundamental life skills like self-reliance, responsibility, and resilience.</li><li>The clash between parent perceptions of professionalism versus the reality of teaching young children—where they&#39;re seen as little sponges rather than mini adults.</li><li>How recent policies, technology, and staffing shortages are undermining teacher authority and safety, and what this means for child development.</li><li>The disturbing shift from hands-on teaching to checkbox-driven assessments, capturing every moment on tablets and cameras, often at the expense of genuine connection.</li><li>The emotional toll on parents and teachers alike, and the importance of trust, structure, and community in early education.</li></ul><p>This candid conversation underscores a critical truth: early childhood education shapes the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow. Ignoring these fundamental shifts risks a generation of kids unprepared for real life, with teachers burned out and parents overwhelmed.Perfect for educators, parents, and childcare administrators-if you&#39;re concerned about our kids&#39; future and want to reconnect with their essential needs, this episode is a must-listen. Chris’s insights challenge us to rethink what quality childcare really means-and why fostering independence, discipline, and resilience starts long before kindergarten.</p> 1b29ac0f-176f-45b0-bd3e-f68bbc41dd32 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:25:30 +0000 3739 no full 4/15 Teachers After Dark- Room, Exit, Burn 4/15 Teachers After Dark- Room, Exit, Burn 11 1 Brittany and Crystal This weeks Teachers After Dark gets it's own episode! Are you drowning in the chaos of a lively classroom, desperately wishing you could hit pause or hit the delete button on some of the daily mess? Imagine if you could choose what stays, what goes, and what’s instantly forgotten-without the guilt. In this episode, teachers spill their most hilarious and relatable “room, exit, or burn” decisions, revealing the chaotic truths behind what we really want to get rid of in our classrooms-and what we secretly love to keep.


]]> <p>This weeks Teachers After Dark gets it&#39;s own episode! Are you drowning in the chaos of a lively classroom, desperately wishing you could hit pause or hit the delete button on some of the daily mess? Imagine if you could choose what stays, what goes, and what’s instantly forgotten-without the guilt. In this episode, teachers spill their most hilarious and relatable “room, exit, or burn” decisions, revealing the chaotic truths behind what we really want to get rid of in our classrooms-and what we secretly love to keep.</p><p><br></p> 60f47263-e492-4619-9cec-331fcdd41654 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:48 +0000 897 no full Ask Us Anything! Thong Scrunchies, Crying Circles, and Why We Started This Chaos Ask Us Anything! Thong Scrunchies, Crying Circles, and Why We Started This Chaos 9 1 Brittany and Crystal  No sugarcoating. No filters. Just the messy truth. Today, Brittany and Crystal answer your questions about the "unhinged" life of an early childhood educator. From the "thong-scrunchie" disaster to the reality of SPED issues in private centers, we’re covering it all.

Highlights:

  • The Podcast Origin: Why Brittany "blamed" Crystal for starting this.
  • Burnout 101: What we do when the classroom feels like a graveyard of negativity.
  • The "Ban List": Which licensing rules would we throw out the window tomorrow?

Teachers After Dark Segment: Don't turn it off yet! In our After Dark segment, we’re talking about the "If the shoe fits" motto. We share why we bloop out names and how you can submit your own messy stories via voicemail without a trace of your real identity.

]]> <p> No sugarcoating. No filters. Just the messy truth. Today, Brittany and Crystal answer your questions about the &#34;unhinged&#34; life of an early childhood educator. From the &#34;thong-scrunchie&#34; disaster to the reality of SPED issues in private centers, we’re covering it all.</p><p><strong>Highlights:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>The Podcast Origin:</strong> Why Brittany &#34;blamed&#34; Crystal for starting this.</li><li><strong>Burnout 101:</strong> What we do when the classroom feels like a graveyard of negativity.</li><li><strong>The &#34;Ban List&#34;:</strong> Which licensing rules would we throw out the window tomorrow?</li></ul><p><strong>Teachers After Dark Segment:</strong> Don&#39;t turn it off yet! In our <strong>After Dark</strong> segment, we’re talking about the &#34;If the shoe fits&#34; motto. We share why we bloop out names and how you can submit your own messy stories via voicemail without a trace of your real identity.</p> 25cb88c7-7e17-4196-ac3e-ec943d1f23ea https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:00:04 +0000 3984 no full Burned Out, Not Done: From Classroom to Childcare Policy Burned Out, Not Done: From Classroom to Childcare Policy 8 1 Brittany and Crystal A Chat With Tiffany Chacon In this episode, we talk with Tiffany Chacon, a teacher who left the classroom and is now behind the scenes, about burnout, the realities of early childhood education, and the deep purpose behind caregiving. She shares honest stories about the challenges educators face and the moments that remind us why this work matters, including how “the smallest little smile or song is going to form a child's life” and why “you need to have a full cup” to keep showing up with intention.

Be sure to check out Tiffany’s podcast Nature to Nurture, a thoughtful show for parents and caregivers filled with guidance on nature based learning, intentional parenting, and caring for yourself while caring for others.

As always, please like follow and share! Our Facebook group has all the new updated information and we also have a new speak pipe feature so you can join us live!

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FP4a7dCrj/

]]> <p>In this episode, we talk with Tiffany Chacon, a teacher who left the classroom and is now behind the scenes, about burnout, the realities of early childhood education, and the deep purpose behind caregiving. She shares honest stories about the challenges educators face and the moments that remind us why this work matters, including how “the smallest little smile or song is going to form a child&#39;s life” and why “you need to have a full cup” to keep showing up with intention.</p><p>Be sure to check out Tiffany’s podcast <strong>Nature to Nurture</strong>, a thoughtful show for parents and caregivers filled with guidance on nature based learning, intentional parenting, and caring for yourself while caring for others.</p><p>As always, please like follow and share! Our Facebook group has all the new updated information and we also have a new speak pipe feature so you can join us live!</p><p>https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FP4a7dCrj/</p> a1b229b2-9b96-46c2-bcf4-3fe3cdf93d7a https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:00:27 +0000 2003 no full Flipping The Script: The Research Behind Why We Stay Flipping The Script: The Research Behind Why We Stay 7 1 Brittany and Crystal I'm not frustrating you, you're feeling frustrated," wise words from a three year old that perfectly capture the emotional rollercoaster of ECE. After our series on burnout, we're flipping the script to focus on why we stay. This episode is grounded in the research article "Early Childhood Teachers' Well-Being: What We Know and Why We Should Care" by Kyong-Ah Kwon, Diane M. Ahorn ( University of Oklahoma-Tulsa) and Chris Amirault (Tulsa Educare MacArthur)

In this episode, we discuss:

The "small wins", Why Developmental milestones outweigh the daily stressors

Professional Identity: How tools like Conscious Discipline and professional development empower us to stay in the field

Support Systems: The vital role of colleges and supportive administrators

The Research: Breaking down the 0-3 journal findings on meaningful work and teacher retention

Join the Conversation! Share your "Why I stay" moments in our ECE Unhinged Listeners Lounge facebook group and like or subscribe to us on spotify for more real talk from the classroom! Also, join is after this episode for our Teachers after dark segment! This will be our first call in show and we get real with some crazy admin stories!


]]> <p>I&#39;m not frustrating you, you&#39;re feeling frustrated,&#34; wise words from a three year old that perfectly capture the emotional rollercoaster of ECE. After our series on burnout, we&#39;re flipping the script to focus on why we stay. This episode is grounded in the research article <strong>&#34;Early Childhood Teachers&#39; Well-Being: What We Know and Why We Should Care&#34; by Kyong-Ah Kwon, Diane M. Ahorn</strong> ( University of Oklahoma-Tulsa) and <strong>Chris Amirault</strong> (Tulsa Educare MacArthur)</p><p>In this episode, we discuss:</p><p>The &#34;small wins&#34;, Why Developmental milestones outweigh the daily stressors</p><p>Professional Identity: How tools like Conscious Discipline and professional development empower us to stay in the field</p><p>Support Systems: The vital role of colleges and supportive administrators</p><p>The Research: Breaking down the 0-3 journal findings on meaningful work and teacher retention</p><p>Join the Conversation! Share your &#34;Why I stay&#34; moments in our <strong>ECE Unhinged Listeners Lounge</strong> facebook group and like or subscribe to us on spotify for more real talk from the classroom! Also, join is after this episode for our Teachers after dark segment! This will be our first call in show and we get real with some crazy admin stories!</p><p><br></p> 54694d8c-1997-4c4a-bd57-d743a7f5d90b https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:00:33 +0000 1017 no full Teachers After Dark: The Unfiltered Admin Files Teachers After Dark: The Unfiltered Admin Files Brittany and Crystal ​We had to separate this segment because the conversation took a much heavier, more raw turn than our main episode. Welcome to the first-ever Teachers After Dark Live Call In session, where we stop talking about the research and start talking about the "living hell" that exists behind some classroom doors.

Listener Discretion Advised: This episode contains raw, unedited discussions regarding workplace toxicity, surveillance, and substance abuse in childcare settings.

In this segment, Brittany and Crystal are joined by live callers to expose the toxic administrative hurdles and "abusive relationship" dynamics that make staying in ECE a daily battle.

​Inside This Segment:

  • ​The Kitchen Needle Scandal: A shocking account of a teacher finding a needle and drug paraphernalia on a kitchen counter, only for admin to dismiss it as a way for the staff member to "de-stress".
  • ​The Keylogger & Shady Promotions: An owner who used keyloggers to steal staff passwords and track job searches, then promoted the teacher who caught her to "hush" the situation.
  • ​Social Media "Insubordination": Caller Diana shares how she was written up for "insubordination" simply for unfriending toxic coworkers on Facebook while pregnant.
  • ​Office Surveillance: We reveal a past center that used hidden cameras to secretly record "confidential" staff interviews with licensing officials.
  • ​Monopoly Go vs. Medical Emergencies: A director who ignored radio calls for a child's medical emergency because she was busy playing mobile games in the office.
  • ​Emergency Neglect: Caller Fernanda discusses the anxiety of being denied leave during a partner’s ER emergency while admin sat nearby making fun of staff.

​The Reality of "Center PTSD"

​We often stay for the children, but we leave because of the leadership. This segment dives into the reality of "center PTSD" and the internal struggle of wanting to protect your students while needing to save yourself from a toxic environment.

​Join the Conversation:

Do you have a story that belongs in the "After Dark" files? Head over to the ECE Unhinged Listeners Lounge on Facebook to submit your story for our next call-in segment!

]]> <p>​We had to separate this segment because the conversation took a much heavier, more raw turn than our main episode. Welcome to the first-ever <strong>Teachers After Dark</strong> <strong>Live Call In</strong> session, where we stop talking about the research and start talking about the &#34;living hell&#34; that exists behind some classroom doors.</p><p>Listener Discretion Advised: This episode contains raw, unedited discussions regarding workplace toxicity, surveillance, and substance abuse in childcare settings.</p><p><span>In this segment, Brittany and Crystal are joined by live callers to expose the toxic administrative hurdles and &#34;abusive relationship&#34; dynamics that make staying in ECE a daily battle.</span></p><h3>​<strong>Inside This Segment:</strong></h3><ul><li>​<strong>The Kitchen Needle Scandal:</strong> A shocking account of a teacher finding a needle and drug paraphernalia on a kitchen counter, only for admin to dismiss it as a way for the staff member to &#34;de-stress&#34;.</li><li>​<strong>The Keylogger &amp; Shady Promotions:</strong> An owner who used keyloggers to steal staff passwords and track job searches, then promoted the teacher who caught her to &#34;hush&#34; the situation.</li><li>​<strong>Social Media &#34;Insubordination&#34;:</strong> Caller Diana shares how she was written up for &#34;insubordination&#34; simply for unfriending toxic coworkers on Facebook while pregnant.</li><li>​<strong>Office Surveillance:</strong> We reveal a past center that used hidden cameras to secretly record &#34;confidential&#34; staff interviews with licensing officials.</li><li>​<strong>Monopoly Go vs. Medical Emergencies:</strong> A director who ignored radio calls for a child&#39;s medical emergency because she was busy playing mobile games in the office.</li><li>​<strong>Emergency Neglect:</strong> Caller Fernanda discusses the anxiety of being denied leave during a partner’s ER emergency while admin sat nearby making fun of staff.</li></ul><h3>​<strong>The Reality of &#34;Center PTSD&#34;</strong></h3><p>​We often stay for the children, but we leave because of the leadership. This segment dives into the reality of &#34;center PTSD&#34; and the internal struggle of wanting to protect your students while needing to save yourself from a toxic environment.</p><p>​<strong>Join the Conversation:</strong></p><p>Do you have a story that belongs in the &#34;After Dark&#34; files? Head over to the <strong>ECE Unhinged Listeners Lounge</strong> on Facebook to submit your story for our next call-in segment!</p> 8427b1c1-472f-4de3-8bd9-c02c3db7d209 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:00:23 +0000 1737 no full The "B" Word Wrapping Up Our Burnout Mini Series The "B" Word Wrapping Up Our Burnout Mini Series 5 1 Brittany and Crystal Leading With Humanity-Part 3 Leading With Humanity: The B Word


We’re wrapping up our burnout mini series with a conversation about teacher burnout in early childhood education and how it shows up differently for every educator. We share takeaways for recognizing burnout, setting boundaries, and holding space for your own experience without guilt.

Follow the podcast for more honest stories from ECE teachers and join our Facebook group ECE Unhinged The Listeners Lounge to connect with other educators, share your wins, and be part of the conversation.

]]> <p>Leading With Humanity: The B Word</p><p><br></p><p> We’re wrapping up our burnout mini series with a conversation about teacher burnout in early childhood education and how it shows up differently for every educator. We share takeaways for recognizing burnout, setting boundaries, and holding space for your own experience without guilt.</p><p>Follow the podcast for more honest stories from ECE teachers and join our Facebook group ECE Unhinged The Listeners Lounge to connect with other educators, share your wins, and be part of the conversation.</p> ad134722-4114-49e3-b54b-4b1cb9bf7998 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9 Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:00:01 +0000 2600 no full Leading With Humanity- "Rethinking Teacher Burnout" Leading With Humanity- "Rethinking Teacher Burnout" 3 1 Brittany and Crystal <p>This hour long episode kicks off our mini-series, Leading With Humanity- "Rethinking Teacher Burnout," starting with a conversation with our very own owner and director. The first few minutes set the stage but bear with us, the heart of the conversation delves into one directors perspective on teacher burnout, leadership behind the scenes and what it really looks like to support educators in todays world. We also kick off our new segment "Teachers After Dark!" so stay tuned after the music and join us for a game of <i>Would You Rather?</i> to decompress!</p><p>If any of this episode resonated with you please like and follow us for more! </p> This hour long episode kicks off our mini-series, Leading With Humanity- "Rethinking Teacher Burnout," starting with a conversation with our very own owner and director. The first few minutes set the stage but bear with us, the heart of the conversation delves into one directors perspective on teacher burnout, leadership behind the scenes and what it really looks like to support educators in todays world. We also kick off our new segment "Teachers After Dark!" so stay tuned after the music and join us for a game of Would You Rather? to decompress!

If any of this episode resonated with you please like and follow us for more!

]]> <p>This hour long episode kicks off our mini-series, Leading With Humanity- &#34;Rethinking Teacher Burnout,&#34; starting with a conversation with our very own owner and director. The first few minutes set the stage but bear with us, the heart of the conversation delves into one directors perspective on teacher burnout, leadership behind the scenes and what it really looks like to support educators in todays world. We also kick off our new segment &#34;Teachers After Dark!&#34; so stay tuned after the music and join us for a game of <i>Would You Rather?</i> to decompress!</p><p>If any of this episode resonated with you please like and follow us for more! </p> 11922ad2-5b0f-452a-a23a-e2062fc8667a https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9/episodes/Leading-With-Humanity--Rethinking-Teacher-Burnout-e3dv6r4 Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:25:54 +0000 4194 no full Leading with Humanity: Shifting the Culture of Teacher Burnout Part 2 Leading with Humanity: Shifting the Culture of Teacher Burnout Part 2 4 1 Brittany and Crystal <p>Episode Description</p><p><strong>Burnout isn’t a diagnosis -- it’s a signal.</strong> In this special roundtable episode, we are peeling back the layers of the "B-word" to look at it through a lens of humanity and hope. Join your cohosts and our special guest, a first-year teacher fresh to the field, as we explore how burnout manifests differently for everyone and why it does not have to be the end of your story in education.</p><p><strong>Inside this episode:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>The Survivor Lens:</strong> One cohost shares her journey of rediscovering her passion for teaching after hitting a wall.</p></li><li><p><strong>The Daily Grind:</strong> One cohost opens up about the reality of working through burnout while still showing up for her students every single day.</p></li><li><p><strong>The New Perspective:</strong> Our guest contributor brings the "new teacher" energy to the table, discussing how we can protect our spark from day one.</p></li><li><p><strong>The Great Shift:</strong> Why we need to stop seeing burnout as a permanent label and start seeing it as a vital signal that something in our environment, not our soul, needs to change.</p></li></ul><p>Whether you are thriving, surviving, or just starting out, this episode is a reminder that you come first. It is time to move past the shame of exhaustion and start leading with humanity.</p><p></p> Episode Description

Burnout isn’t a diagnosis -- it’s a signal. In this special roundtable episode, we are peeling back the layers of the "B-word" to look at it through a lens of humanity and hope. Join your cohosts and our special guest, a first-year teacher fresh to the field, as we explore how burnout manifests differently for everyone and why it does not have to be the end of your story in education.

Inside this episode:

  • The Survivor Lens: One cohost shares her journey of rediscovering her passion for teaching after hitting a wall.

  • The Daily Grind: One cohost opens up about the reality of working through burnout while still showing up for her students every single day.

  • The New Perspective: Our guest contributor brings the "new teacher" energy to the table, discussing how we can protect our spark from day one.

  • The Great Shift: Why we need to stop seeing burnout as a permanent label and start seeing it as a vital signal that something in our environment, not our soul, needs to change.

Whether you are thriving, surviving, or just starting out, this episode is a reminder that you come first. It is time to move past the shame of exhaustion and start leading with humanity.

]]> <p>Episode Description</p><p><strong>Burnout isn’t a diagnosis -- it’s a signal.</strong> In this special roundtable episode, we are peeling back the layers of the &#34;B-word&#34; to look at it through a lens of humanity and hope. Join your cohosts and our special guest, a first-year teacher fresh to the field, as we explore how burnout manifests differently for everyone and why it does not have to be the end of your story in education.</p><p><strong>Inside this episode:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>The Survivor Lens:</strong> One cohost shares her journey of rediscovering her passion for teaching after hitting a wall.</p></li><li><p><strong>The Daily Grind:</strong> One cohost opens up about the reality of working through burnout while still showing up for her students every single day.</p></li><li><p><strong>The New Perspective:</strong> Our guest contributor brings the &#34;new teacher&#34; energy to the table, discussing how we can protect our spark from day one.</p></li><li><p><strong>The Great Shift:</strong> Why we need to stop seeing burnout as a permanent label and start seeing it as a vital signal that something in our environment, not our soul, needs to change.</p></li></ul><p>Whether you are thriving, surviving, or just starting out, this episode is a reminder that you come first. It is time to move past the shame of exhaustion and start leading with humanity.</p><p></p> a8c7ca76-05a0-4d2f-98a2-7baacf083c65 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9/episodes/Leading-with-Humanity-Shifting-the-Culture-of-Teacher-Burnout-Part-2-e3ek0so Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000 5650 no full IYKYK- Real Stories from Real Teachers IYKYK- Real Stories from Real Teachers 1 1 Brittany and Crystal <p>You sent them, we read them and wow! This episode is a collection of real stories from teachers, some hilarious and some completely unhinged, and some that just make you question how you survive the day. We're recording this one from the car, reading and reacting as we go. It's messy, It's honest and it's a reminder that none of us are alone in the chaos of this work.</p><p>Have a story of your own? We're talking about them in our Facebook group over in ECE Unhinged- A podcast for Todays Early Childhood Educator</p> You sent them, we read them and wow! This episode is a collection of real stories from teachers, some hilarious and some completely unhinged, and some that just make you question how you survive the day. We're recording this one from the car, reading and reacting as we go. It's messy, It's honest and it's a reminder that none of us are alone in the chaos of this work.

Have a story of your own? We're talking about them in our Facebook group over in ECE Unhinged- A podcast for Todays Early Childhood Educator

]]> <p>You sent them, we read them and wow! This episode is a collection of real stories from teachers, some hilarious and some completely unhinged, and some that just make you question how you survive the day. We&#39;re recording this one from the car, reading and reacting as we go. It&#39;s messy, It&#39;s honest and it&#39;s a reminder that none of us are alone in the chaos of this work.</p><p>Have a story of your own? We&#39;re talking about them in our Facebook group over in ECE Unhinged- A podcast for Todays Early Childhood Educator</p> d321d78e-6673-4b4c-91cb-40f6579632c0 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9/episodes/IYKYK--Real-Stories-from-Real-Teachers-e3d642e Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000 1425 no trailer The Raw Reality of Loving Tiny Humans- What is ECE? The Raw Reality of Loving Tiny Humans- What is ECE? 1 1 Brittany and Crystal <p>We&#39;re Brittany and Crystal, two educators still in the classroom with over 40 years of experience between us. We love our jobs but the system is broken- and we are here to talk about it-from the car...So come along for the ride as we share what early childhood education really looks like and why we started this podcast! </p><p><br></p><p>Like what you hear? Follow us on facebook to drop your stories and reviews and to see the latest updates @<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578294159450&__cft__[0]=AZZaO98EEtQ-eq34bVQUuxI3jIsMQP9kDisJkMrEIOcR6CTHnKp_4KNeoAfoK_yPXcWdPDG_bEwWJ5IfJexStXnA4YDpn_4L7cpaJ0wXTO0j_2hvGDpx2sueZ7ccEujc4RY&__tn__=-]K-R">ECE Unhinged - A podcast for Today&#39;s Early Childhood Educators</a> </p> We're Brittany and Crystal, two educators still in the classroom with over 40 years of experience between us. We love our jobs but the system is broken- and we are here to talk about it-from the car...So come along for the ride as we share what early childhood education really looks like and why we started this podcast!


Like what you hear? Follow us on facebook to drop your stories and reviews and to see the latest updates @ECE Unhinged - A podcast for Today's Early Childhood Educators

]]> <p>We&#39;re Brittany and Crystal, two educators still in the classroom with over 40 years of experience between us. We love our jobs but the system is broken- and we are here to talk about it-from the car...So come along for the ride as we share what early childhood education really looks like and why we started this podcast! </p><p><br></p><p>Like what you hear? Follow us on facebook to drop your stories and reviews and to see the latest updates @<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZZaO98EEtQ-eq34bVQUuxI3jIsMQP9kDisJkMrEIOcR6CTHnKp_4KNeoAfoK_yPXcWdPDG_bEwWJ5IfJexStXnA4YDpn_4L7cpaJ0wXTO0j_2hvGDpx2sueZ7ccEujc4RY&__tn__=-%5DK-R&id=61578294159450" rel="nofollow">ECE Unhinged - A podcast for Today&#39;s Early Childhood Educators</a> </p> 70ff0cf2-f345-49dd-9d17-ae45a1fc9157 https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brittany-holmes9/episodes/The-Raw-Reality-of-Loving-Tiny-Humans--What-is-ECE-e3cfdff Wed, 17 Dec 2025 02:52:33 +0000 557 no