Everything But The Lesson Plan

“Cash flow isn't about how much you make. It's about what you keep, what you grow, and what you never see slip through your fingers,” says Jeff Malone, financial strategist and wealth-building specialist.

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson talks with Jeff Malone about the money conversation teachers rarely get to have: how to increase cash flow on an educator's income, why saving is a mindset before it's a number, and what it actually takes to move from surviving paycheck to paycheck toward real asset accumulation. They unpack current data on emergency savings and retirement readiness, and Jeff breaks down strategic wealth-building steps any teacher can start using immediately — no finance degree required.

This is a conversation for every educator who has ever felt like they take care of everyone's future but their own. It's time to change that.

The views and opinions expressed by guests on Everything But The Lesson Plan are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Thrive 12 or its affiliates. This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute individualized financial, tax, or legal advice. Listeners should consult a licensed financial professional before making decisions about their own savings, investments, or wealth-building strategy. Statistics referenced are drawn from publicly available sources believed accurate at the time of recording; see the reference list for full citations.

 About Jeff Malone

Jeff Malone is a Managing Director at Consolidated Planning in Atlanta with nearly 20 years of experience in financial services. Before joining the firm in 2020, he worked with Northwestern Mutual, Truist, Wells Fargo, and Aon Hewitt. Jeff helps clients make financial decisions that reflect their priorities and long-term goals, taking time to understand what matters most to them. He also recruits and supports the next generation of financial advisors. His guiding belief, “Victory Loves Preparation,” reflects his commitment to helping people prepare for their financial future.

Website:  https://www.cplanning.com/malone-financial/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-malone/

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

• Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12⁠

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

• Amazon Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?lp_asin=B0F1QNLKC4&ref_=ast_bln

  
  

  
  

  
  

No one becomes a teacher by accident. Behind every classroom is a story — a reason, a moment, a person, a calling that led someone to walk through that door for the first time.

In this episode of Becoming — A Teacher's Journey, a segment we return to every season on Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Jerri-Ann Jacobs, an educator with Gwinnett County Public Schools who works closely with special needs students and was recently named the 2026 Margaret G. Gibbs Educator of the Year.

Jerri-Ann shares her path into education, what it's really like to teach and advocate for special needs students every day, and what that recognition means to her after years of showing up for kids who need her most.

🎙️ Because every teacher was becoming one, long before the classroom made it official.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, medical, or financial advice.

Listeners are encouraged to seek independent advice from qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances. Any mention of products, services, or organizations does not imply endorsement.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that neither the host nor the guests shall be held liable for any loss, damage, or issues that may arise from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Jerri-Ann Jacobs

Jerri-Ann Jacobs is a special education teacher with Gwinnett County Public Schools and the 2026 Margaret G. Gibbs Educator of the Year. In education since 2019 and the classroom since 2022, she holds a master’s in teaching with a concentration in Special Education Adapted Curriculum and an Autism Endorsement. She is pursuing an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Special Education concentration and a Secondary Reading Endorsement. Jerri-Ann is passionate about helping every student feel supported and seen.

•     LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jerri-annjacobs

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to “Everything But The Lesson Plan,” a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

•     LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95

•     Facebook: facebook.com/ithrive12

•     Instagram: ithrive_12

•     Website: www.thrive12.com

"I founded One Million Girls in 2012 with a single suitcase of menstrual supplies for girls in Monrovia, Liberia."  — Hananatu Tunis

A girl missing school because she doesn't have a pad isn't a rare story — it's a data point repeated in classrooms across the world, including right here in the United States. And yet it's one of the quietest reasons kids fall behind.

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson talks with Hananatu Tunis, founder and executive director of One Million Girls, a nonprofit that's grown from a single suitcase of supplies into a global organization advancing menstrual health, leadership, and career readiness for girls.

This isn't a conversation about taboo. It's a conversation about attendance, confidence, and opportunity — and why period poverty belongs on every school's radar, not just as a health issue, but as an education issue.

🎙️ Because a missed pad shouldn't cost a girl her education.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical, professional, legal, or financial advice.

This episode discusses menstrual health in a factual, educational context appropriate for general audiences. Any mention of One Million Girls or its programs is for informational purposes and does not constitute a paid endorsement or advertisement by Everything But The Lesson Plan.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Hananatu Tunis & One Million Girls

Hananatu Tunis is the founder and executive director of One Million Girls, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit she started in 2012 with a single suitcase of menstrual supplies for girls in Monrovia, Liberia. More than a decade later, that grassroots effort has grown into a global organization operating through virtual and localized community summits, advancing girls' confidence, leadership, and career readiness by expanding access to menstrual health resources, leadership development, and workforce-aligned opportunities. The organization has launched SpeakHER Power, an immersive leadership and career-readiness program for girls.

•     Website:⁠ onemilliongirlsglobal.org⁠

•     Instagram:⁠ @onemilliongirls⁠

•     LinkedIn:⁠ One Million Girls⁠

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive 12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

•     LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95

•     Website: www.thrive12.com

We all have that one teacher… the one who saw something in us before we saw it in ourselves. The one whose words, presence, or belief stayed with us long after we left their classroom.

In this episode of “My Favorite Teacher,” we sit down with guests to uncover the powerful stories behind the educators who changed their lives. This time, Ashley Anjalique takes us back to the moment she met the teacher who left a lasting mark on her journey — and why that connection still matters today.

Because great teachers don't just teach… they transform lives.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, medical, or financial advice.

Listeners are encouraged to seek independent advice from qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances. Any mention of products, services, or organizations does not imply endorsement.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that neither the host nor the guests shall be held liable for any loss, damage, or issues that may arise from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Ashley Anjalique

Ashley Anjalique is a filmmaker, writer, director, and producer creating authentic stories rooted in Black culture. Known for her web series Side Chick, her work explores identity, family, and relationships through characters audiences can connect with.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashleymc1

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to “Everything But The Lesson Plan,” a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95
• Facebook: facebook.com/ithrive12
• Instagram: ithrive_12
• Website: www.thrive12.com
• Amazon Store: Thrive12 Store

"Great leaders do not rely on assumption. They teach."  — Dr. Chaun L. Johnson

Most breakdowns in a school — a culture that never quite gels, a new teacher who feels lost, a vision that dies in a staff meeting — don't start with bad intentions. They start with an assumption. Someone assumed everyone already understood.

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson talks with Dr. Chaun L. Johnson — education leadership consultant, longtime school improvement specialist, and author of Assume Nothing, Teach Everything! — a cross-sector leadership framework built for anyone accountable for real results, from classrooms to boardrooms to command centers. Franchesca and Dr. Johnson translate that framework specifically for school leaders: what it looks like to close the gap between vision and execution, culture and compliance, in a building full of people who were never actually taught what “good” looks like.

🎙️ Because the gap between what you meant and what your staff heard is where your culture actually lives.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, or financial advice.

This episode references Dr. Johnson's book Assume Nothing, Teach Everything! for educational discussion purposes; any mention does not constitute a paid endorsement or advertisement by Everything But The Lesson Plan.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Dr. Chaun L. Johnson

Dr. Chaun L. Johnson is an education leadership consultant and school improvement specialist with more than two decades of experience leading schools, including alternative and dropout-recovery programs in the Chicago area. Through JLA School Improvement Solutions, he works alongside principals and district leaders to build sustainable systems rooted in clarity, instruction, and accountability. He holds a Ph.D. and is the author of Assume Nothing, Teach Everything!, a cross-sector leadership framework written for executives, HR professionals, educators, healthcare administrators, operations managers, military leaders, entrepreneurs, and ministry leaders alike. The book confronts what Dr. Johnson identifies as the invisible breakdown between expectation and performance — the assumption that standards, once stated, are automatically understood — and offers a practical, repeatable system for building observable standards and accountability structures that empower rather than intimidate. 

Book: Assume Nothing, Teach Everything! (available on Amazon)

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chaun-l-johnson-phd

• Audio: audio.com/chaun-johnson

About Franchesca Thompson, PhD

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive 12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95

• Website: www.thrive12.com

“Nobody told me that.” Four words from a little boy in a Coney Island barbershop stayed with me.

In this episode of Everything But the Lesson Plan, I reflect on a conversation between Stephon Marbury and that young boy—and what it reveals about the possibilities children are shown, and the ones they are never told about. We’ll talk about the boxes placed around kids because of their circumstances, the expectations adults communicate, and how teachers, leaders, and mentors can turn encouraging words into real opportunities.

Listen, then share this episode with someone who helps shape a child’s future.

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

• Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12⁠

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

• Amazon Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?lp_asin=B0F1QNLKC4&ref_=ast_bln

This is a short, guided body scan meditation for educators — a chance to notice and release the physical tension that builds up over a day of standing, talking, holding a room, and holding it together.

Play it between classes, at your desk after dismissal, or before you walk back through your own front door tonight.

You don't have to earn rest. You just have to take it.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

This meditation is offered for general relaxation and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health care. If you are driving or operating machinery, please do not follow along until you are safely able to close your eyes and relax. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to sit, breathe deeply, or relax certain muscles, please adjust or skip any portion of this practice as needed.

The views expressed are those of the host and do not necessarily represent any other organization or entity. All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive 12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

Difficult parent-teacher conversations are part of the job—but they don’t have to damage relationships. In this solo episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, Franchesca Thompson breaks down how educators can navigate challenging phone calls with confidence, clarity, and compassion.

Learn practical strategies for managing tough conversations, avoiding common communication mistakes, and building trust with families—even in high-stress situations. This episode is a must-listen for teachers who want to strengthen parent partnerships and create a more supportive classroom environment.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, medical, or financial advice.

Listeners are encouraged to seek independent advice from qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances. Any mention of products, services, or organizations does not imply endorsement.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that neither the host nor the guests shall be held liable for any loss, damage, or issues that may arise from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠
• Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12⁠
• Instagram: ithrive_12
• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠
• Amazon Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?lp_asin=B0F1QNLKC4&ref_=ast_bln

"Instead of showing me your diversity statement, show me your hiring data, your discrimination claim stats, your salary tables, your retention numbers, your public action against racism."  — Dr. Monica Cox

The word “DEI” is disappearing from headlines, statements, and job titles. But disappearing language isn't the same thing as disappearing work — and for high-need, low-income schools, knowing the difference matters more than ever.

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson talks with Dr. Monica Cox — DEI consultant, authenticity coach, and host of Stop Playing Diversity — about what's actually replacing DEI language across companies, states, and school systems, and how districts can keep protecting students and teachers even when the label is gone.

🎙️ Because a statement can be deleted overnight. A retention number, a pay table, a discipline-gap report — that's a lot harder to quietly walk away from.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, professional, or financial advice.

Federal and state policy on DEI in education is actively evolving. Listeners — especially school and district leaders — are strongly encouraged to consult their own legal counsel before making compliance decisions based on anything discussed in this episode.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Dr. Monica Cox

Monica F. Cox, Ph.D., is a distinguished professor, consultant, and authenticity coach known as a disruptor and change agent in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space. Raised in rural southeast Alabama by educator parents, she built a career helping individuals and organizations close the gap between the values they publicly claim and the way they actually operate. She is the host of Stop Playing Diversity, a podcast that pushes past performative language toward honest, data-driven conversation about what organizations actually do. [Guest to confirm/edit final bio wording.]

• Podcast: Stop Playing Diversity with Dr. Monica Cox
• Website: drmonicacox.com
• Instagram: @drmonicacox
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About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive 12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95
• Website: www.thrive12.com

It's 11:47 PM. You are exhausted. Tomorrow starts early. And you are still scrolling.

This episode,I talk about something almost every educator has done and almost no one names out loud: revenge bedtime procrastination — intentionally delaying sleep to reclaim a few hours of control after a day that gave you none.

It's not laziness. It's not poor discipline. Research on self-regulation suggests it's something closer to a quiet act of rebellion — and understanding why it happens is the first step to actually changing it.

Podcast Legal Disclaimer

The views, information, or opinions expressed during Everything But The Lesson Plan are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of any other organization or entity. This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical, professional, legal, or financial advice.

Listeners are encouraged to seek independent advice from their own qualified healthcare providers regarding their specific sleep, stress, or health circumstances. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that neither the host nor Everything But The Lesson Plan shall be held liable for any loss, damage, or issues arising from reliance on the information presented.

All content is copyrighted by Everything But The Lesson Plan and may not be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission.

About Franchesca Thompson

Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive 12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95
• Website: www.thrive12.com