Do you have people that show up inspired by your vision? Questions to ask yourself as you build a business and a legacy that stands for excellence in the field. Kris welcomes the Director of Marketing and Child Care Extraordinaire Sindye Alexander, who started out as a client and then grew her center in Michigan from the beginning of doing home daycare. They talk about how Sindye started the business as a way to earn income while spending time with her kids, the impact culture has on both its own business and the community around it, and a peek into her brand new book Relationship Roadmap, chock full of strategies on how to create a culture of excellence.   Key Takeaways: [4:53] The holiday season can be one of joy and merriment, but it can also be a struggle. Kris reminds us that we aren’t alone, and on the Child Care Success website, you can find ways not only to grow your business but also to work on your mindset and live a happier life. [8:28] Sindye started in child care after having her first daughter and seeing how much she was making a difference in the families around her. She combined her business savvy and high-value childcare skills into making a full-blown new career for herself and it wasn’t long before she was full and turning clients away. She then opened a small center which filled up and moved up to a larger center licensed with a capacity of 120. [12:25] Sindye loves her job as the Director of Marketing and sees it an opportunity to impact and touch as many lives as possible. [14:52] Sindye shares the most heartwarming and adorable (sorry Sindye’s husband!) story about how a school dance in 1988 led to them being each other’s soul mates for life. [19:54] Culture affects everything from the turnover of staff and employee hiring and retention to corporate engagement. Sindye explains how quality care in our teachers affects emotional aspects, financial opportunities, and even a child’s brain development. [24:13] If you have a positive and caring culture in your childcare environment, your team will be helpful and positive. They will be solution based, and excited to contribute because of a mutual trust and respect. [26:48] It takes time to develop a collaborative culture but there are some steps to begin right away. Sindye’s answer might not be super popular or easy to hear — the culture reflects the leadership. Also, no matter what level of status an employee has, they could always actively strive to communicate in an approachable and positive way. [30:02] It is important for leaders to be aware of how they communicate with their team, their mindset, and how they manage stress effectively. [36:36] While the staff will probably eat all the donuts you get them, Sindye shares that real inspiration comes providing structure and a strong foundation. Appreciation and connection are two huge things that cost no money but make a big difference. [47:38] Sindye recommends finding a financial advisor to help you, no matter where you are in your journey. [53:08] Sindye defines a child care rockstar as someone that works to positively impact the early years, and in turn, makes a lifelong difference.   Mentioned in This Episode: Kris Murray Child Care Marketing Solutions Child Care Success Academy Child Care Success Summit Patrick M. Lencioni Relationship Roadmap: Real-World Strategies for Building a Positive, Collaborative Culture in Your Preschool, by Sindye Alexander Child Care Millionaire: Secrets to Building a Profitable 7 or 8 Figure Child Care Business, by Brian Duprey