Welcome to the Big Hearted Podcast. Today, I'm venturing into the often-sensitive territory of dealing with criticism and feedback within our family daycare community. I'll be sharing my personal and professional experiences on how to turn potentially hurtful comments into opportunities for growth and innovation. In This Episode: The Sting of Criticism: I address the sting of receiving negative feedback and how it can leave us questioning ourselves. I discuss how to bounce back and use this as an opportunity for improvement and self-discovery. Controversy as a Catalyst: I open up about my own run-ins with controversy and the defensive reactions they've spurred. Learn how I've used these instances not to provoke but to encourage reflection and a deeper understanding of different viewpoints. Curiosity in the Face of Change: I'll talk you through a moment in my practice where I was challenged to adapt and the self-inquiry that followed. Understand the value of staying curious and open to innovation in our practices, even when it's uncomfortable. Vulnerability and Connection: Taking inspiration from Brené Brown, I explore the power of vulnerability and its essential role in building connections and fostering a sense of community within the family daycare setting. The Trials of Online Presence During COVID: I'll take you through my experiences with managing a large online community during the pandemic, the issues that came with it, and the importance of standing by your values. Handling Trolling: Discover my approach to navigating online negativity and maintaining integrity, even when faced with the challenge of trolls. Creating Your Supportive Network: I'll discuss the significance of finding your tribe – a community that supports you constructively and helps you grow even through challenging times. Resources for Educators: Curious about joining the Essential Elements: Links to my in-depth course on nurturing deeply connected relationships within family daycare settings can be found here. Beyond the Basics Course: Details on registration for the course starting on 11th March are available – join me for an experience that promises to take your practice beyond the basics.