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!