Best Cathy Thompson Podcasts (2025)

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#221# Addressing the Staffing Crisis in ECE with Paul Buckley 31:27

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5d ago31:27

31:27

In this episode, Carla sits down with Paul Buckley, former preschool teacher and founder of Ratio Staffing, to explore what’s really happening behind staffing challenges in early childhood education. Paul shares how burnout, outdated systems, and unnecessary barriers are affecting educators and programs and how a more human-centred, child-centred a…

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S2 Ep8: Peter Medak, Director 1:46:11

6d ago1:46:11

1:46:11

Join Chris and Susan for a very special holiday episode honoring director Peter Medak whose prolific career included working with directors Alfred Hitchcock and David Lean and film industry icons Peter O'Toole and Peter Sellers, to directing six episodes of 'Homicide: Life on the Street' over the course of four seasons. We're also excited to offer …

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Wisdom and Respect: Music & Dementia Care 20:35

7d ago20:35

20:35

In this episode we are speaking with Taylor Kurta about her work in the field of dementia care. She talks to us about her unique approach to dementia care as a songwriter along with collaborative songwriting as a way to challenge stigma. Here is a little more about Taylor: Taylor Kurta is an award-winning singer-songwriter, certified music therapis…

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#220 Celebrating Small Wins in ECE 11:23

12d ago11:23

11:23

In this episode, Carla explores what meaningful progress truly looks like in early childhood education: the subtle, powerful shifts that happen long before skills show up on the surface. From greeting a child at the door to acknowledging feelings with empathy, she breaks down how these small moments strengthen neural pathways, support emotional reg…

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#219: AI in Education with Thomas Thompson 33:52

19d ago33:52

33:52

AI isn’t here to replace educators; it’s here to support us. In this episode, Carla sits down with Thomas Thompson, co-founder and CEO of Eduaide.Ai, to explore how AI can help teachers and early childhood educators work smarter, not harder. From lesson planning and accommodations to game-based learning and productivity, Thomas breaks down how AI t…

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#218: The Art of Transitions 10:07

26d ago10:07

10:07

Transitions get a bad reputation: rushed, chaotic, stressful. But they don’t have to be. In this episode, Carla explores a powerful mindset shift: transitions aren’t the thing before the next thing. They are learning. Carla breaks down how slowing down, pausing before stepping in, and leading with empathy can transform the way children experience t…

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#217: Why Every Educator Needs a Website (Even If You’re Not a Business Owner) with Chelsea Denny 26:32

1M ago26:32

26:32

Think websites are just for business owners? Think again. In this episode, Carla chats with Chelsea Denny, founder of Early Childhood Creative, about why every educator (from classroom teachers to program owners) can benefit from having a professional online presence. You’ll learn: ✨ How your website can work for you 24/7 💡 Why automation saves you…

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S2 Ep7: Lee Bonner, Director 1:24:17

1M ago1:24:17

1:24:17

Please join Chris and Susan for a delightful conversation with Baltimore director and filmmaker Lee Bonner, who directed three terrific episodes of “Homicide: Life on the Street,” including the pivotal "Requiem for Adena." Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the show, Lee’s other film projects, and Baltimore filmmaking of the time. And if you'd like to…

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Global Music Therapy & EMDR Research 25:10

1M ago25:10

25:10

In this episode we are speaking with Aksana Kavaliova-Moussi about her work in EMDR, which is the therapeutic treatment modality of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, along with her global involvement in music therapy. Aksana also shares her journey to becoming a music therapist. Here is a little more about Aksana: Aksana was born in Be…

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#216: Reframing Conflict 6:44

1M ago6:44

6:44

Conflict doesn’t have to be scary or negative. In this short and powerful episode, Carla explores how reframing conflict can transform classroom challenges into opportunities for connection and growth. From cloakroom chaos to tidy-up time, she shares practical language shifts that help educators move from correcting and directing to connecting. Lea…

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#215: Not Just Cute: Why Play is Powerful, Not Just Pretty with Amanda Morgan 27:35

2M ago27:35

27:35

Play isn’t just cute. It’s critical. In this episode, Carla sits down with Amanda Morgan, educator, author, and founder of Not Just Cute, to uncover the real power of play in early childhood education. Together, they explore how play supports mental health, brain development, and lifelong learning, and how educators can communicate its value to fam…

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#214: 5 Documentation Strategies to Bring ECE Learning to Life 11:20

2M ago11:20

11:20

What if your documentation could do more than check a box? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares 5 documentation strategies to bring ECE learning to life: practical, heart-centred ways to make documentation meaningful, authentic, and a natural part of your teaching practice. You’ll discover how to: ✨ Capture the small, ev…

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#213: Navigating Stress in Early Childhood Education with Cameile Henry 34:46

2M ago34:46

34:46

Stress shows up in our work, but it doesn’t have to take over. In this episode, Carla Ward sits down with Cameile Henry, award-winning author and CEO of Strengthen Hands Educational Resources Inc., to explore how reflection, awareness, and kindness help educators navigate stress before it leads to burnout. This conversation reminds us that calm is …

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#212: The 4 Words Holding Children Back 8:55

2M ago8:55

8:55

There are four little words that we, as educators, use far more often than we realize — and they might be quietly holding children back. These words aren’t harsh or negative. In fact, they sound completely ordinary. But the truth is, they shape how we see children, how we interpret their behaviour, and how we respond in the moment. In this episode,…

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S2 Ep6: Cathy, Kerry, Greer and Tracey from the Production office 3:01:54

2M ago3:01:54

3:01:54

Join Chris and Susan for another deep dive behind the scenes of Homicide: Life on the Street. This week, we pull back the curtain on the Production Office with guests Cathy Kurtz, Kerry Craven, Greer Yeaton, and Tracey Frey. Learn about the inner workings of a network television series, and how such complicated logistics and split-second changes we…

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Group Analytic Music Therapy 32:48

2M ago32:48

32:48

In this episode, we are speaking with Heidi Ahonen from Waterloo Ontario. Heidi delves into her work in Group Analytic Music Therapy, sharing with us about how she developed it, the underlying theory behind the therapy along with what a typical session looks like. Here is a little more about Heidi: Dr Heidi Ahonen is professor of music therapy and …

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#211: All In for Early Learning with Dawn Montecalvo 32:07

3M ago32:07

32:07

In this powerful episode, Carla welcomes Dawn Montecalvo, CEO of the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee, Florida, to discuss what it really means to go all in when early learning is on the line. From shifting the educator mindset from “job” to “career” to reducing turnover through professional development and support, Dawn shares how her team is creatin…

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S2: Next episode delayed and will be released on 16th October 0:39

3M ago0:39

0:39

Hi everyone, it's Chris here. I hope you are well. Sadly we have had to postpone the release of our latest episode, as it's our biggest episode yet! We are joined by Cathy, Kerry, Greer, and Tracy from the Production office. And they have loads of behind the scenes stories from the making of the show. Please tune in next Thursday, 16th October for …

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#210: The Magic of Zero to Three with Rebecca Parlakian from Zero to Three 22:51

3M ago22:51

22:51

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Rebecca Parlakian, child development and parenting specialist at ZERO TO THREE, to shine a spotlight on the incredible world of infants and toddlers. Together they unpack: The key developmental milestones across social-emotional, cognitive, communication, and physical domains Why e…

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#209: The Power of Educators as Coaches with Debbi Sluys 30:12

3M ago30:12

30:12

In this engaging conversation, Debbie shares her journey as an early childhood educator and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of the profession. She discusses the natural coaching abilities of educators, the importance of reflective inquiry, and the transformative power of vision boards and manifestation in both personal and profess…

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#208: Language of Encouragement 15:30

3M ago15:30

15:30

The words we choose with children matter more than we realize. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores The Language of Encouragement and how it shapes a child’s self-esteem, resilience, and inner voice. Discover: ✔ The difference between praise and encouragement ✔ Why connection before correction preserves dignity ✔ How a…

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#207: Adaptability in Early Childhood: Humanizing Practice, Real Resilience, and Kindness with Kisa Marx 42:20

3M ago42:20

42:20

What does it look like to truly humanize early learning? In this rich conversation with Kisa Marx. We unpack why adaptability is now a core competency for educators and families. We explore how belonging builds real resilience, why “good job” falls short, the power of the pause, and how to hold safety, advocacy, and kindness at the same time. You’l…

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S2 Ep5: Daniel Baldwin - Det. Beau Felton 1:58:52

3M ago1:58:52

1:58:52

Join Chris and Susan for a candid and entertaining ride of an episode, with Homicide's Daniel Baldwin, who portrayed Det. Beau Felton for 35 episodes, on Seasons 1-3. His character was also brought back, posthumously, in Season 5's two-part finale, and "Homicide: The Movie" in 2000. Connect with us on Social Media BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/h…

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Do the Job No One Wants to do feat. Guy Rebentisch 42:13

4M ago42:13

42:13

Episode 55 kicks off summer with special guest Guy Rebentisch. With over 30 years in restaurants he shares his stories of food, celebrities and the keys to success in surviving this ever changing industry. The group enjoyed some Schramsberg sparkling wine while reviewing the March 2025 St. Helena police log. Episode highlights include real wine cri…

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#206: The Hidden Curriculum in Early Childhood 11:34

4M ago11:34

11:34

Your classroom is always teaching, even when you’re not speaking. In this episode, Carla Ward explores the concept of the “hidden curriculum” through the Reggio Emilia idea of the classroom as the third teacher. From lighting and plants to blocks, visual schedules, and representation, discover how the environment silently shapes children’s learning…

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#205: Children’s Rights in Action: Why Participation Matters with Marta Skrzypczak 25:43

4M ago25:43

25:43

Children aren’t the future- they’re people of today. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Marta Skrzypczak, educator and children’s rights advocate, to explore why children’s participation is a fundamental right, not a privilege. We cover: - What Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child means fo…

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#204: Routines vs. Schedules: Why Rhythm Matters More Than the Clock 12:43

4M ago12:43

12:43

Back-to-school means new faces, new energy, and new opportunities to set the tone. But are we over-focusing on the schedule and missing the real magic of routines? In this episode, I dive into the difference between schedules and routines, why routines matter so deeply for children’s safety, belonging, and learning, and how transitions can be power…

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#203: Social Emotional Learning Starts with Us with Prerna Richards 28:30

4M ago28:30

28:30

Why does social emotional learning need to start with us as educators? In this thought-provoking conversation with Prerna Richards of Together We Grow, we explore how our own regulation, mindset, and choices impact everything from classroom dynamics to the way children learn and grow. This episode blends insight, real-life reflection, and practical…

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S2 Ep4: Jay Rabinowitz and Debbie Moran - The Editors 2:09:12

4M ago2:09:12

2:09:12

Join Chris and me for a delightful conversation and a behind-the-scenes peek inside the “Homicide: Life on the Street” editing suite, with editors Jay Rabinowitz and Debbie Moran of the show’s editorial team. The techniques used in cutting the show became an integral part of its groundbreaking and award-winning, style Connect with us on Social Medi…

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#202: Purposeful Planning 14:46

5M ago14:46

14:46

Learn how to plan in early childhood education with calm, connection, and intention. In this episode, Carla Ward shares ECE planning tips for merging curriculum expectations with play-based learning, improving classroom flow, and making documentation purposeful. Show Notes: ⁠www.elfoundations.com/202 Email Newsletter: ⁠Click Here⁠…

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#201: Early Language Learning in ECE with Meeghan Carter 22:16

5M ago22:16

22:16

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Meeghan Carter, a bilingual educator with over 25 years of experience, to explore how early exposure to a second language can boost empathy, cultural awareness, and cognitive development. Meeghan shares her journey building Spanish language programs for young children and offers si…

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#200: 200th Episode Celebration: 10 Expert Voices Shaping the Future of ECE 15:35

5M ago15:35

15:35

It’s the 200th episode of The Everything ECE Podcast! To celebrate, I’m bringing you a roundup of powerful insights from 10 incredible expert guests whose voices continue to shape and elevate the early learning profession. From equity and neurodiversity to art, literacy, and documentation, this episode is filled with the kind of reflections that re…

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#199: Identifying Literacy Challenges in Early Childhood 43:40

5M ago43:40

43:40

Have you ever wondered if we’re identifying literacy challenges early enough in young children? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift to talk about the importance of early detection, the key signs to look for, and practical strategies educators can use to support children who are struggling wi…

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#198: How Intergenerational Teams Elevate Early Childhood Education 8:40

6M ago8:40

8:40

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores the power and potential of intergenerational teams in early childhood education. With multiple generations working side by side in many ECE programs, there is an opportunity to create stronger, more dynamic teams when we learn to lean into our differences with curiosity and respect. Carl…

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S2 Ep3: Alex Zakrzewski Cinematographer and Dave Thompson Focus Puller Seasons 5-7 2:34:32

6M ago2:34:32

2:34:32

Alex Zakrzewski and Dave Thompson discuss their experiences shooting Homicide: Life on the Street, from improvisational camerawork to behind-the-scenes tensions, offering insight into the show’s groundbreaking style, collaborative culture, and the unique challenges of creating vérité-style television drama. Connect with us on Social Media BlueSky h…

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197: Developing an Art Mindset with Cathy Belgrave 40:39

6M ago40:39

40:39

In this heart-opening conversation, Carla Ward sits down with Cathy Belgrave, host of The Intentional ECE Podcast, to explore the powerful role of art in early learning—not just as an activity, but as a mindset. Together, they unpack what it means for educators to develop an art mindset, how to move beyond crafts and into intentional creativity, an…

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#196: Rethinking Circle Time: Connection Over Control 9:31

6M ago9:31

9:31

Is your circle time built for compliance or connection? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward invites educators to rethink traditional circle time practices and shift the focus from managing behaviour to building meaningful engagement. We explore why not every child needs to join the group to be involved, how rigid expectations …

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#195: Loose Parts in Early Childhood wih Angela Odusanya 26:46

6M ago26:46

26:46

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Angela Odusanya - Registered Early Childhood Educator, Ontario Certified Teacher, and children’s book author - to explore how loose parts play transformed her classroom practice and perspective on children's creativity. Angela shares her personal "aha moment," the calming magi…

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Music Therapy as Clinical Care: An Anthropological Lens 32:13

6M ago32:13

32:13

In this episode we are speaking with Meredith Evans who has a unique perspective as an anthropologist who is studying music therapy. Meredith tells us more about her research article titled, “The Pursuit of Clinical Recognition” which explores the challenges music therapists encounter in being recognized as clinical professionals, and having music …

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#194: The Sensory Side of Behaviour 11:22

6M ago11:22

11:22

What if the behaviours we label as acting out were actually sensory cries for help? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward pulls back the curtain on the sensory side of behaviour. From spinning in circles to hiding under tables and chewing hoodie strings-these aren't just disruptions; they're messages. Backed by research from Dr.…

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S2 Ep2: Peter Gerety, Detective Stuart Gharty. 2:22:55

7M ago2:22:55

2:22:55

Join Chris and Susan for a delightful chat with “Homicide” actor Peter Gerety, who played a Baltimore beat cop, Internal Affairs Detective, and ultimately Homicide Detective Stu Gharty, for 48 episodes, Seasons 4-7, 1996-1999. Peter’s acting experience stretches far and wide, including an amazing background in theater, film, and television. Listen …

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#193: Bringing Parents into Literacy Strategies with Melissa McCall 23:17

7M ago23:17

23:17

How do we foster a love of literacy in young children without drilling flashcards or forcing reading before they’re ready? In this inspiring episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, literacy expert Melissa McCall of Moving Little Minds joins Carla to explore the power of play-based early literacy and how to build strong literacy foundations in early …

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#192: Reflective Practice: The Superpower of a Great Educator 10:28

7M ago10:28

10:28

In this episode, Carla Ward explores how reflective practice isn’t just a tool—it’s a transformative mindset that allows early childhood educators to grow, connect, and thrive. Through powerful stories and practical strategies, Carla shows how small daily reflections can lead to deeper connections with children, stronger professional relationships,…

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#191: Key Practices for a Successful Classroom Walkthrough with Katherine Hamilton 32:41

7M ago32:41

32:41

Katherine Hamilton from Ensemble Learning joins Carla to talk about successful classroom walkthroughs that build trust, support educators, and impact student outcomes. Learn how walkthroughs, when done with intention and focus, can transform school culture, close achievement gaps, and empower educators—without adding stress. Perfect for ECE supervi…

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Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT) Annual Conference 26:07

7M ago26:07

26:07

In this episode, we are speaking with Katelyn Wheaton and Emily Carruthers about the upcoming Canadian Association of Music Therapists annual conference to be held May 22nd to 24th 2025 in Halifax Nova Scotia. They share details about what unique things to expect from the conference this year and ways to get involved. As an added bonus, Adrienne sh…

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Keeping Napa Sustainable feat. Cathy Corison 46:27

7M ago46:27

46:27

Episode 54 is a treat with special guest Cathy Corison. The group enjoyed a 2021 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon while reviewing the February 2025 and February 1995 St. Helena Police Log. Highlights is the episode include sustainability, Cathy’s journey as a winemaker, confusing bumper stickers and insights on the future of Napa Valley. Enjoy this wonde…

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#190: The Art of Storytelling 7:41

7M ago7:41

7:41

What if storytime didn’t end when you closed the book? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward invites you to reimagine how literacy lives in your early childhood classroom by taking stories beyond the book. Discover why the most powerful literacy experiences happen after the last page is turned, and how you can weave books into p…

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S2 Ep1: Ted Bogosian & Richard Chisolm: Anatomy of a Homicide: Life on the Street 2:25:35

7M ago2:25:35

2:25:35

Welcome to the launch of our second season! After our One-Year Anniversary episode, Chris and Susan took a short break, and are ready to bring you another year of great behind-the-scenes conversations. To kick off year two we have a terrific chat with two of the documentary filmmakers responsible for the Emmy-nominated PBS doc “Anatomy of a Homicid…

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#189: The Power of Composition in Early Childhood with Margaret Quinn 25:47

8M ago25:47

25:47

Join Carla and Dr. Margaret Quinn as they explore how children under six make meaning through writing. This episode breaks down Margaret’s fascinating research on transcription, connection, and discourse—three essential components of early writing—and gives practical strategies for supporting young children’s literacy through intentional, play-base…

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#188: How to Conduct a Sensorial Audit in Your Program 13:08

8M ago13:08

13:08

Discover how to view your childcare program through a sensory lens. In this episode, Carla Ward guides you through a sensorial audit—what it is, why it matters, and how to start making small changes that lead to big impacts on children’s regulation, focus, and well-being. Packed with actionable tips for every educatorSensorial Audit Checklist: www.…