The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

547 Designing Magic: In the Director’s Chair with Dr. Sandra Duncan

Erica Saccoccio

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0:00 | 22:39

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This one right here… spill the real tea… I was hooked from the moment we sat down.

Live from the National Child Care Association Conference, Erica gets the incredible opportunity to sit down with ECE legend Dr. Sandra Duncan to talk all things designing children’s learning environments—and let me tell you, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.

Dr. Duncan speaks around the world to early childhood professionals, designers, educators, and leaders—sharing both inspiration and practical tools for creating environments where children and adults truly thrive. Whether she’s keynoting conferences, leading hands-on workshops, or working side-by-side with programs, she brings decades of expertise, real-world insight, and a contagious passion for creating spaces that spark curiosity, connection, and wonder.

And honestly? It didn’t stop when the mics turned off. I spent the rest of the weekend soaking it all in—learning, laughing, and diving deeper into her work. She is as brilliant as she is kind, and if you’re not familiar with her work yet… this is your sign.

We’re already planning to have her back on the show—because next time, we need a quiet space and a whole lot more time.

Trust me, after this episode, you’re going to walk away seeing your classrooms—and your role as a leader—in a whole new light.



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