We’re thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with Ricardo Campo, CEO of Endeavor Schools, from our podcast episode on ECE CEO Biography: Sage Wisdom for Childcare Leaders. Ricardo opens up about his journey in early childhood education (ECE) and shares powerful insights on leadership, culture, and growth. For those who own or manage childcare centers, this episode is packed with practical advice and genuine inspiration.

Leading in ECE

As many of you know, running a childcare center can be rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges. Ricardo’s journey is a testament to the resilience and dedication it takes to rise in this field. His story is a reminder to all of us in ECE that with persistence, hard work, and a vision, you can build something truly impactful.

For Ricardo, every step along the way contributed to his growth and understanding of what it means to lead in early childhood education. And now, as CEO, he’s dedicated to fostering the same opportunities and growth mindset within his organization.

Creating a Positive Environment for Teams

As childcare and daycare owners know, your staff is one of your most valuable assets. Ricardo shares in the episode that one of his main priorities as a leader is to cultivate a positive work environment. This, he explains, isn’t just about perks or policies; it’s about creating a culture where staff feel valued, respected, and supported.

Your team looks to you not just for direction, but for encouragement and empowerment. A positive environment is a place where people feel safe to voice their ideas, comfortable to grow, and motivated to bring their best selves to work each day. For childcare business owners, this is key – staff who feel appreciated and supported are more likely to provide excellent care, leading to happier families and a more successful center.

The Leadership Strategies That Drive Success

Throughout the episode, Ricardo touches on several core leadership strategies that have guided him in his role. A few key strategies he highlights include:

1. Leading by Example: Ricardo believes in modeling the behavior and commitment he expects from his team. When staff see leaders working hard, staying engaged, and demonstrating respect for every role within the organization, they’re more likely to mirror those behaviors.
2. Empowering Teams with Trust: Micromanaging isn’t effective for building a strong team. Instead, it’s important to empower employees by giving them autonomy to make decisions and trusting them to deliver. This builds confidence within teams and creates a sense of ownership that can drive outstanding results.
3. Listening and Learning: By seeking feedback from your team and listening to the needs and concerns of staff, this allows you to remain adaptable in your leadership style. This growth mindset is essential for any leader who wants to create a culture of improvement.
4. Setting Clear Goals and Expectations: Successful leadership isn’t just about inspiration – it’s also about clarity. When everyone understands what success looks like and has a shared vision, they can work together more effectively.

What Childcare Owners Can Take Away

For those of you running childcare centers, Ricardo’s insights provide a solid foundation for building a strong team and achieving growth. Leadership isn’t just about making big decisions; it’s about setting a tone, supporting others, and staying committed to continuous learning.

Whether your business is small or part of a growing chain, the principles Ricardo shares apply. Here are a few takeaways:

• Invest in Your Team: The success of your business depends on the strength of your team. Investing in their growth, creating a supportive culture, and empowering them with trust can make a world of difference in morale and performance.
• Communicate Your Vision: Make sure your team understands and feels a part of your business’s goals. When everyone knows what they’re working toward, it creates a sense of purpose that can fuel productivity and satisfaction.
• Stay Committed to Growth: Leadership doesn’t have a finish line. Just as your staff are constantly learning and growing, so should you. By staying open to feedback and continuously developing your own skills, you can create a thriving environment where everyone benefits.

Ready to Tune In?

This episode with Ricardo Campo is an inspiring listen for any childcare business owner, whether you’re looking to refine your leadership skills, improve your workplace culture, or take your business to the next level. Ricardo’s experience and passion for what he does truly shine through in this conversation, and his insights will leave you feeling motivated and equipped to make meaningful changes in your own business.

To hear the full episode, including more of Ricardo’s strategies and his vision for leadership in ECE, be sure to subscribe to our podcast! Listening to leaders like Ricardo can offer new perspectives and ideas that you can apply directly to your center, whether it’s creating a more positive environment for your team or setting clearer goals for yourself.