Episode 12

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Published on:

10th Jul 2026

FRUITS OF LABOR

Welcome to The APPLE LOUNGE podcast.

Meet our special guest Sheryl Bates. Sheryl has dedicated her career to supporting young children, families, and the early childhood professionals who care for them. She believes every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where they can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

As the Owner and Director of Fruits of Labor, Sheryl provides professional development and training to childcare providers across New York State. Over the years, she has developed strong relationships with both center-based and home-based childcare providers, gaining a deep appreciation for the important work they do each day. She understands the unique challenges family childcare programs face and is committed to providing practical, meaningful training that educators can immediately apply in their programs.

With experience in both the classroom and leadership, Sheryl enjoys helping educators build their knowledge, strengthen their practice, and grow professionally. She believes that when we invest in those who care for young children, we create better outcomes for children, families, and communities.

Sheryl values collaboration, lifelong learning, and building strong partnerships with families and fellow educators. Whether she is leading training, coaching providers, or working alongside early childhood professionals, her goal is to encourage, support, and inspire others while helping raise the quality of early childhood education throughout New York State.

Join a community of passionate teachers as we collaborate on insights, celebrate our achievements, and address the challenges that come with the vocation.

Together, we strengthen our teaching practices and enhance the learning journey for our students.

Tune in for rich discussions that elevate the art of teaching.

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About the Podcast

The Apple Lounge
The APPLE LOUNGE podcast is committed to giving voice to the heart of education. This podcast will explore how educators can leverage their collective wisdom to enhance the educational landscape. This is a safe space where they can discuss innovative teaching strategies, discussing classroom challenges, and sharing success stories, educators can cultivate a community that thrives on mutual support creating a safe space for those in education.

The series is a dedicated space for educators to engage in dialogue to foster collaboration, share experiences, and seek peer support. This environment encourages open communication about classroom challenges, innovative strategies, and professional growth. Such spaces also enhance mental well-being by alleviating isolation and stress, promoting a sense of community. Additionally, they facilitate professional development through feedback sessions and collaboration on projects, improving educational outcomes.

In the educational realm, the apple symbolizes much more than a simple fruit; it represents growth, nourishment, and the exchange of ideas. For educators, the apple serves as a metaphor for the essential sharing of knowledge and experiences that can foster collaboration and inspire learning.

Join us as we uncover the many layers of what it means to be an educator today and how the spirit of the apple encourages us to grow, collaborate, and learn from one another.

PODCAST TEAM:
Co-host Kim Stewart, a master strategist and administrator who has served programs in communities across Western New York for over 30 years.

Co-host Patty Zika, a visionary educator with years of leadership experience and classroom work with students in all grades (PK–12). Each team member advocates for early childhood education and shares a passion for supporting children, families, and educators in our community.

Drehz (Dwayne Andres), a Honolulu-based master music producer, songwriter, and engineer known for progressive, syncopated, and harmonic instrumental arrangements. He creates music for major TV networks and shows—including Dancing with the Stars, Dance Moms, and So You Think You Can Dance—with a global reach.

Podcast creator and producer E. P. Mattson, a philanthropist, children's author, an advocate for Early Childhood Education, Early Literacy and Community Health Education.