The Council Table Podcast

In this special live episode of The Council Table, recorded at the Region IV Head Start Leadership Institute, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., and guest moderator Myra Ingram explore leadership, workforce challenges, and the enduring connection between the CDA® Credential and Head Start.Dr. Moore shares personal reflections from his earliest years as a Head Start child and CDA holder to his current role as CEO of the Council, and offers insight into what it means to lead with purpose during uncertain

Wellness isn’t an add-on to early childhood education; it’s a requirement.In this week’s episode of The Council Table, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., speaks with Ant Toombs about what it truly takes to create learning environments where educators and children can thrive.From burnout and “burn-in” to the importance of joy, presence, and human connection, this episode offers a grounded and honest look at the emotional realities of early learning and how leaders can support their teams meaningfully.💚

The Council for Professional Recognition and Head Start have always been connected in purpose — from the creation of the CDA® Credential to today’s work supporting educators and families across the country.In this episode of The Council Table, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., talks with Zuly Vásquez, Senior Manager of Online Professional Development at the National Head Start Association, about how the two organizations continue to collaborate to strengthen the early learning workforce.They discuss access,

Registries are more than data systems; they’re the connective tissue of the early childhood education profession.In this episode of The Council Table, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., talks with Dr. Kimberlee Belcher, Executive Director of the National Workforce Registry Alliance, about how registries are transforming workforce visibility and creating stronger connections across states, educators, and systems.They discuss the critical role registries play in elevating the profession, improving access to

What happens when policy starts by listening to the people doing the work?In this episode, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr. talks with Yvette Sanchez Fuentes, Vice President of National Policy at Start Early and former Director of the Office of Head Start. Together, they explore how early childhood systems can move from ideas on paper to meaningful change in classrooms and communities.Yvette shares how home visiting, Head Start partnerships, and community-driven initiatives are reshaping how we think about

What will it take to bring more men into early childhood education, and help them thrive once they’re there?In this episode, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr. talks with Dr. Keon Berry and Dr. Leah Austin about the state of men in ECE. They explore the personal, systemic, and cultural barriers that influence who joins and stays in the profession, and share ideas for building stronger leadership pipelines for male educators.A powerful conversation about representation, equity, and the future of early

For Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., leadership is a full-circle journey.In this episode, Dr. Moore shares his personal story — from teaching in early childhood classrooms to becoming the CEO of the Council for Professional Recognition. He reflects on lessons learned, defining moments, and the educators who shaped his vision along the way.A conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the importance of returning to your “why.”

Pull up a chair — The Council Table is open.In this inaugural episode, host Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., CEO of the Council for Professional Recognition, introduces listeners to a new space for real conversations about the people and stories shaping early childhood education.Learn what to expect this season as we explore leadership, innovation, and the powerful community of educators creating change across the field.