Come along for the ride as we introduce you to Andrew Van Leuven, Assistant Professor at the University of Vermont in the Department of Community Development and Applied Economics. With degrees from The Ohio State University, and institutions in Pennsylvania and Utah, Erin & Andrew talk about the forces that shape local economic vitality and community well-being in rural and small town America and how these aspects intertwine with childcare. Like your host Erin, they both geek out on the data side of things that inform so many thoughts and perspectives.

At Hula in Burlington, Lucia Campriello is helping shape the future of Vermont’s entrepreneurial and innovation economy. As CEO of one of the region’s most vibrant hubs for founders, creatives, investors, remote workers and community leaders, Lucia is a driving force behind the connections and collaborations fueling regional momentum. Known for her visionary leadership and community-first approach, Lucia is cultivating an ecosystem where businesses grow, partnerships form, and people feel inspired to belong and contribute. Erin and Lucia first connected while working together at Let's Grow Kids, and their shared passion for meaningful change - and friendship - has only grown since. Tune in for an energizing conversation about Lucia’s journey, the power of authentic community building, what makes Hula such a magnetic force in Vermont right now, and why surrounding yourself with passionate people matters.

Champlain College student Kassim joins Erin for a thoughtful conversation about the challenges of child care, and the importance of staying calm, grounded, and confident through them. Kassim shares his personal journey from Somalia to the United States, reflecting on culture, identity, and what it has meant to navigate child care while raising a young child.

He opens up about moments of feeling different and not always like he belonged, and how those experiences have shaped who he is today. Through reflection and growth, Kassim describes a deep curiosity about life and a desire to better understand the path that brought him here.

The takeaway is simple but powerful: tell your story—because everyone has one worth sharing.