Kris welcomes Maria Ahrens, Owner of Paper Planes Early Learning Center in Mount Sinai, NY, for an inspiring conversation on transparent and open communication and embracing the special parts of yourself in leadership. During their talk, Maria shares more about what makes Paper Planes unique and provides valuable tips for team engagement and teacher retention. She also reflects on the benefits of being part of the Academy and receiving mentorship in the industry.   Key Takeaways: [2:10] The inspiration behind Maria opening Paper Planes in September of 2020, and how opening during the pandemic affected their journey. [3:42] Paper Planes is licensed for 100 and has a special license for continuity of care. They have a current staff of 25. [4:44] How Maria got into the world of ECE. [5:29] Maria grew up in a ski resort in New York and worked in childcare centers there. [8:48] The transition of leaving Denver and going back to New York. [11:01] Fun Fact: Maria is a doula and certified birth educator. [12:35] One of the selling points of Maria’s business is her ability to connect with people and provide an open and transparent environment. [14:03] A few more of Paper Planes’ selling points are the play-based model, transparency in all departments, and training the staff to have hard conversations. [20:55] How Kris got into a good flow doing Facebook Live recordings. [22:24] The importance of making the teachers feel important and learning how to communicate in a way that helps others grow. [29:11] How the academy helps Maria stay on track with having systems in place. [31:27] Taking away the anxiety that comes with being understaffed. [34:44] How Maria overcame staffing challenges in 2022. [40:40] How Maria utilized Grow Your Center and the ways it freed up her time. [42:39] How Child Care Success and coaching have impacted Maria’s mindset and helped her with productivity, while spending time with her family. [45:20] What is next for Maria in 2024, both personally and professionally? [50:10] A reminder that you don’t have to stay stuck and it’s okay to invest in yourself. [52:19] You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a lot of impact.   Quotes: “It chose me. I have loved babies in particular, since I was really, really young.” — Maria [5:00] “One thing that I’ve really loved about opening from scratch has been that I do see a difference in the culture because I built it this way.” — Maria [13:45] “My passion was babies and making moms feel comfortable, that was really my thing.” — Maria [14:32] “When kids feel loved and safe, they do better.” — Maria [14:36] “Part of what makes us who we are is that the parents have really strong relationships with the staff.” — Maria [16:25] “If you go in there with no expectation of the outcome and just saying whatever you’re saying with love and respect, the outcome is almost always going to be better than it would be if you were saying it as if you’re already wrong.” — Maria [27:02] “You don’t have to stay stuck.” — Maria [50:05] “You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a lot of impact.” — Kris [52:18]   Sponsored By: ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI) Use the code CCSC5 to claim a free course!   Mentioned in This Episode: Kris Murray The Child Care Success Company The Child Care Success Academy The Child Care Success Summit Grow Your Center Childcare Education Institute: Use code CDARenewal22 to get $100 off your renewal. Paper Planes Early Learning Center Paper Planes on Facebook