Profitable Preschool | Exceptional Finance for Childcare Founders

Alexis Louis, CPA | Childcare Business CFO, Tax Coach, Accountant
  • 5.0 (6)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Do you run a preschool that looks successful—but your bank account tells a different story? You’re not the only one. Many preschool and childcare center owners work hard every day, but still feel stressed about money. Hi, I’m Alexis Louis. I’m a mom, and accountant. I know how it feels to love your center but struggle to make a real profit. I started this podcast to help owners like you take control of your money, grow your income, and build a business that works for your life. On the Profitable Preschool Podcast, you’ll learn: ✔ How to manage cash flow ✔ Save money on taxes ✔ Grow your center with confidence ✔ Get your books and systems in order ✔ And finally feel in charge of your business Each week, I’ll share simple tips, real stories, and clear steps to help you run a profitable preschool—without burnout. 👉 Learn more + get free tools at: www.littleledgers.com 📱 Follow me on Instagram: @ProfitablePreschool

Episodes

  1. JAN 27

    08. You’re Not Weak, You’re Over-giving: Neshanta Linson’s Childcare Journey to Boundaries, Profit, and Peace

    What if burnout isn’t a sign that you’re failing, but a sign that you’re over-giving? In this episode of the Profitable Preschool Podcast, Alexis Louis, CPA sits down with Neshanta Linson, founder of Hermes Enchanted Garden, for a raw and deeply honest conversation about leadership, boundaries, and the mindset shifts required to build a childcare business with both profit and peace. Neshanta shares her unexpected path into early childhood education, the hard lessons she learned scaling from in-home care to a center, and how over-giving nearly cost her clarity, energy, and joy. From staffing and systems to faith, grief, and mindset coaching, this episode explores what it really means to evolve from a passionate owner into a grounded, confident CEO. You’ll hear: Why over-giving is one of the biggest (and most hidden) causes of burnout How boundaries protect both your business and your wellbeing The mindset work that unlocked clarity, better decisions, and stronger leadership Why systems, not sacrifice, create sustainable profit How purpose, faith, and community shape long-term success in childcare If you’re a childcare owner who feels stretched thin, emotionally exhausted, or stuck doing everything yourself, this episode will remind you: you’re not weak, you’re just ready for your next level of leadership.

    42 min

  2. 12/27/2025

    07. From Chaos to CEO: The Systems Every Childcare Owner Needs w/ Kenyatta Colbert-Watkins

    In this episode of the Profitable Preschool Podcast, Alexis Lewis, CPA, sits down with Kenyatta Colbert, founder of The Astounding Academy in Dunwoody, Georgia, for a deeply honest conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable childcare center. Kenyatta shares her journey from working in middle schools during COVID to opening her center in 2022—and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From navigating payroll pressure and staffing challenges to supporting children with exceptionalities and learning to lead with clarity instead of chaos, this episode goes far beyond surface-level success. You’ll hear candid reflections on burnout, faith, delegation, boundaries with staff and parents, and why systems—not just passion—are the key to longevity in early childhood education. This episode is especially powerful for owners in their first 3–5 years who need reassurance that growth, struggle, and refinement are all part of the process. If you’re a childcare owner building something meaningful and wondering if you’re alone—you’re not.

    41 min

  3. 10/21/2025

    06. Leading with Heart: How Penny Payne Built a Center Where People Come First

    What if your childcare business could be both profitable and deeply purposeful? In this episode of The Profitable Preschool Podcast, host Alexis Louis, CPA, sits down with Penny Payne, founder of 15th Avenue North Learning Academy, to unpack the mindset and systems behind her thriving Nashville childcare center. Penny’s story is the blueprint for what happens when compassion meets consistency. She’s not chasing vacation money or status symbols, instead she’s building a community where teachers feel valued, parents feel supported, and children feel seen. From surviving a rocky first year to leading a six-classroom school that’s fully enrolled and mission-driven, Penny shares the real talk on what it takes to build a business that lasts. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn passion into profit without losing your peace, this episode will reignite your belief that abundance follows alignment. 🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How to lead with heart without losing your financial footing Why structure and systems are the real keys to sustainability How to recover from burnout and reconnect to your “why” Penny’s secret to keeping staff loyal and families raving for 10 years strong Why faith and service are still the most powerful business growth strategies ✨ Quote to Remember “Money will come if you’re doing what you’re supposed to do.” – Penny Payne

    57 min

  4. 08/04/2025

    05. The Breakthrough That Built the Childcare Center with Essence Britton

    What happens when passion hits a wall—and purpose has to carry the weight? Kansas City-based childcare center owner Essence Britton, founder of She Cares KC, went from long hours, mounting pressure, and financial setbacks to opening her second childcare center—and doing it her way. Essence doesn’t hold back in this episode. From 6 a.m. solo days to praying through burnout, she shares how faith, strategy, and community helped her break through what almost broke her. We talk real numbers, real mindset shifts, and what it really takes to lead without losing yourself. If you’ve ever questioned whether you can grow your center without burning out, this episode is your reminder: You absolutely can. Essence details the moment she nearly walked away—and what stopped her. Plus, she reveals her strategy for cutting burnout without cutting quality. She talks about how she rebuilt her finances and found mentors who saw her future. Her faith isn't just part of her story, it's her strategy.   HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: 1️⃣ Faith is a business strategy—Essence’s journey is a masterclass in spiritual alignment. When burnout hit and the numbers weren’t adding up, she turned inward—leaning on prayer, silence, and divine clarity. Her story proves that listening to your higher power isn’t just personal; it can be the most strategic move you make in business. 2️⃣ Burnout often comes from doing it alone. For too long, Essence tried to run her center solo—long hours, no help, and no systems. Her breakthrough came when she realized success doesn’t require suffering. Finding a coach, setting boundaries, and honoring her own capacity changed everything. 3️⃣ You can set the rules and still stay full. From shifting her hours to redefining what leadership looks like, Essence learned that you can build a profitable, high-quality program that fits your life—not the other way around. When you lead with purpose and process, your dream center becomes reality.   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Has the IRS paid you to hire employees for your center? If your answer is "no🤷🏾‍♀️", then grab my FREE guide, How IRS-approved tax credits can help fund payroll at your childcare center—without raising tuition.   MORE FROM ESSENCE: Get your copy of her e-book Surviving & Thriving: How I Built My Daycare from a 2-Bedroom Apartment to a Full Center Follow Essence on Instagram: @shecaresclubhouse_llc_   MORE FROM LITTLE LEDGERS: Follow us on Instagram: @littleledgersaccounting   SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more childcare owners who need these insights. 🎙️ Thanks for listening to the Profitable Preschool Podcast! See you next week!

    36 min

  5. 07/22/2025

    04. Building a Debt-Free Preschool Empire with Tiffany Hall-Maloy

    She started with milk crates, secondhand toys, and a calling. Now, Tiffany Hall is the powerhouse owner of 3 thriving childcare centers, and she did it all without debt, investors, or burning out. In this episode of the Profitable Preschool Podcast, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to build a purpose-driven preschool empire from the ground up. You’ll hear: ✔️ How Tiffany launched her first center from her living room in under 2 months ✔️ The truth about scaling without SBA loans or outside funding ✔️ Why faith, routines, and porch-drop-off support fueled her success ✔️ How she stays rooted in her purpose (even when the numbers get tough) ✔️ The simple, scrappy systems she still uses today to grow sustainably Whether you're just dreaming of your first center—or scaling your third—Tiffany’s story is a masterclass in starting with what you have, showing up with heart, and building something that lasts. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Tiffany’s childcare centers: Growth Academy [@growthacademy2017] Free download: [Profitable Preschool Roadmap: Payroll Edition] Follow us on IG: [@littleledgersaccounting] 📌 Let’s keep the convo going! Subscribe, leave a review, and tag us with your biggest takeaway. We love celebrating your wins.

    1h 10m

  6. 04/22/2025

    03. Tax Tips for Childcare Centers to Stay Ahead Year Round and Reduce Stress

    If the word “tax” makes your stomach drop, this episode is for you. In Episode 3 of Profitable Preschool, we’re diving deep into practical, year-round tax strategies tailored specifically for affluent childcare center owners managing $500K–$2M in annual revenue. Whether you own one preschool or oversee multiple locations, this episode will help you ditch the panic and approach tax planning like a confident CEO. Host Alexis Louis, a seasoned expert in early childhood business finances, shares the exact systems high-performing center owners use to stay financially organized, avoid IRS pitfalls, and keep more of what they earn. This isn’t generic advice—it’s built for center owners just like you who are scaling and need serious financial control without sacrificing their sanity. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why taxes don’t have to be scary—and how a proactive mindset can change everything The top three habits of childcare CEOs who never stress during tax time How to build a monthly and quarterly financial rhythm that supports tax readiness The most overlooked tax deductions and credits for early childhood businesses Common mistakes successful center owners still make—and how to avoid them A clear, actionable tax checklist to follow every single year Whether you're preparing for a major expansion, hiring more staff, or just trying to get a better handle on your books, these tips will help you take control of your business finances—and gain the peace of mind you’ve been missing. This episode is ideal for: Preschool and childcare center owners earning $500K+ per year Operators of multi-site early education businesses Directors and founders looking to improve profitability and reduce tax-time stress Anyone who wants to turn tax season from a last-minute scramble into a strategic advantage 🎧 Listen now and start building your stress-free tax strategy—because you deserve to run your center with clarity, confidence, and cash flow. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another center owner who’s ready to elevate their financial game. Connect with Alexis! LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexislouiscpa   More about Little Ledgers Accounting Learn more about Little Ledgers's services at www.littleledgers.com Follow Little Ledgers Accounting at instagram.com/littleledgersaccounting

    11 min

  7. 04/21/2025

    02. How to Pay Yourself Without Feeling Guilty as a Childcare Center Owner

    Are you running a full preschool or daycare center, but still not paying yourself consistently? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode of Profitable Preschool, we tackle one of the biggest questions childcare center owners ask: “Can I really afford to pay myself?” Spoiler alert: YES, you can—and you absolutely should. In this powerful conversation,Alexis Louis, your Childcare CFO and host, breaks down how owner pay really works in a childcare business, why so many early education leaders go without it, and how to flip the script with a strategy that works. Whether you're running a Montessori program, a full-service childcare center, or planning your second location, this episode is packed with financial clarity and confidence-building insights. You'll learn: ✅ Why most center owners underpay—or completely skip—themselves ✅ How to shift your mindset from teacher or director to confident CEO ✅ What “profit-first” really means for early childhood businesses ✅ How to calculate what you can afford to pay yourself (without guilt!) ✅ Simple strategies to start building consistent owner income—today If you’re tired of giving everything to your center and getting nothing in return… it’s time to change that. This episode is especially for: Multi-site childcare center owners Preschool directors transitioning into ownership Affluent center leaders ready to prioritize financial freedom Early education entrepreneurs building 6- and 7-figure businesses Don’t let another month go by without paying yourself what you deserve. Listen now and take your next confident step toward a profitable preschool and a paid owner.   Connect with Alexis! LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexislouiscpa   More about Little Ledgers Accounting Learn more about Little Ledgers's services at www.littleledgers.com Follow Little Ledgers Accounting at instagram.com/littleledgersaccounting

    9 min

  8. 04/19/2025

    01. Why Your Preschool is Full, But You're Still Not Profitable

    Your preschool is full. You’ve got a waitlist, your teachers are clocked in, parents sing your praises—and yet your personal paycheck doesn’t match all the hard work you're putting in. Sound familiar? In this powerful first episode of Profitable Preschool, Childcare CFO and business coach Alexis Louis uncovers the real reason so many successful-looking childcare centers are barely breaking even—and what to do about it. We’re talking: ✅ Why full enrollment doesn't mean full profit ✅ The hidden expenses that are quietly draining your income ✅ What’s actually keeping you stuck in survival mode ✅ How to shift into CEO-level thinking (without more stress or hours) ✅ Simple changes that can increase your paycheck without increasing your workload This is the episode every affluent center owner needs to hear if they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wondering, “Why am I still not paying myself more?” If you're ready to stop working 60+ hours a week for scraps and start building a preschool that gives you time, freedom, and real financial growth—this episode will give you the clarity and next steps you need. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to turn your passion into profit—because it’s time your preschool paid you like the CEO you are. Connect with Alexis! LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexislouiscpa   More about Little Ledgers Accounting Learn more about Little Ledgers's services at www.littleledgers.com Follow Little Ledgers Accounting at instagram.com/littleledgersaccounting

    10 min

  9. 04/18/2025

    Profitable Preschool Podcast: Exceptional Finance for Childcare Founders

    Welcome to Profitable Preschool – Your New Favorite Business Podcast for Childcare Center Owners! You’ve built a beautiful preschool. The classrooms are full, your team is showing up, and families love you—but your bank account doesn’t reflect your hard work. If you’re tired of being busy but still broke, Profitable Preschool is here to help you change the game. Hosted by Alexis Louis, a Childcare CFO and trusted advisor to high-performing center owners, this podcast is your go-to space for learning how to: Understand your numbers without the overwhelm Build a center that grows with you, not against you Create financial freedom, more time, and lasting legacy In this quick trailer, you’ll learn what this show is all about, what you can expect in each episode, and why this is the business support you’ve been waiting for. Hit follow and get ready to turn your passion into profit—because it’s time your preschool paid you like the CEO you are.   Connect with Alexis! LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexislouiscpa   More about Little Ledgers Accounting Learn more about Little Ledgers's services at www.littleledgers.com Follow Little Ledgers Accounting at instagram.com/littleledgersaccounting

    1 min

Trailer

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About

Do you run a preschool that looks successful—but your bank account tells a different story? You’re not the only one. Many preschool and childcare center owners work hard every day, but still feel stressed about money. Hi, I’m Alexis Louis. I’m a mom, and accountant. I know how it feels to love your center but struggle to make a real profit. I started this podcast to help owners like you take control of your money, grow your income, and build a business that works for your life. On the Profitable Preschool Podcast, you’ll learn: ✔ How to manage cash flow ✔ Save money on taxes ✔ Grow your center with confidence ✔ Get your books and systems in order ✔ And finally feel in charge of your business Each week, I’ll share simple tips, real stories, and clear steps to help you run a profitable preschool—without burnout. 👉 Learn more + get free tools at: www.littleledgers.com 📱 Follow me on Instagram: @ProfitablePreschool

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