Everything But The Lesson Plan

In this deeply personal and uplifting episode, host Franchesca Thompson explores the quiet but powerful force of doubt—and how it tries to keep us small. From classroom struggles to personal crossroads, Franchesca shares honest stories, real-life strategies, and gentle encouragement to help listeners recognize, confront, and rise above self-doubt. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply someone walking through uncertainty, this episode is your reminder that you are not alone—and you are more capable than you think. Tune in and rediscover your courage, one brave step at a time.

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

Welcome to the "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:⁠ 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?ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_ast_store_JGSDBACHJC9AHHTJ6XVM

The Educator’s Voice – Classroom Stories with Dr. WIlburn

Step inside the classroom walls and hear what really happens between the bells. In this heartfelt episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson launches a brand‑new segment—“The Educator’s Voice.” No scripts, no filters—just genuine stories that capture the highs, lows, and unforgettable “aha!” moments of teaching.

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 Dr. Wilburn

Dr. Teresa (Dr. T) Wilburn is a veteran educator with nearly 40 years of experience inspiring students, families, and school communities. She is the bestselling author of Middle School University, an interactive guide that helps parents prepare their adolescents for college, careers, and—soon—NIL opportunities through its upcoming sports edition.

A passionate advocate for student success, Dr. T also leads Bridge the Badge, a national program that trains School Resource Officers to serve as mentors. Known for her energetic, interactive teaching style, she empowers learners to think boldly and expand their potential.

Raised in Atlanta and shaped by Spelman College, Dr. T holds degrees from Spelman, National Louis University, Jones International University, and the University of Sarasota. Her career spans counseling, higher education, and seven years as an educational consultant and radio co-host on Miller on the Mic, where she connected communities through learning.

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to the "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:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

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

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

• Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_ast_store_JGSDBACHJC9AHHTJ6XVM
  

Too many children are falling behind—and the transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn” around 3rd-4th grade is make-or-break. In this episode, Dr. Gwendolyn Lavert, PhD, shares her research, experience, and hope: how early foundational skills, effective interventions, and community‐wide support can help every child become a confident, fluent reader by 4th grade. If you care about equity, literacy, education, or simply empowering the next generation, this episode is for you.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.

Dr. Gwendolyn Lavert, PhD

Dr. Gwendolyn Lavert is an award-winning children’s book author, literacy expert, and global educator whose career spans classroom teaching, district leadership, and international training. She began her cognitive education work in 2003 while completing her PhD on cognitive strategy instruction in middle and high school students. After earning her doctorate in 2007, she founded a high-performing charter school grounded in her research on thinking skills.

In 2009, Dr. Lavert moved to the UAE, where she trained educators across Dubai, Oman, and Qatar, served as a university professor, and was introduced to Ayurveda—deepening her commitment to whole-child and whole-teacher wellness. Her career includes roles as District Literacy Coach, Dean/Vice Principal, Principal, leadership practitioner, and consultant for major publishing companies.

Today, Dr. Lavert blends cognitive development, literacy, and holistic education to help teachers and students unlock the unlimited mind.

Let’s rebuild literacy with brains at the center.

📧 [email protected] | 📱 765-667-0415

💼 Also available through Solution Tree Publishing PD Department

© 2025 Dr. Gwendolyn Battle Lavert. All Rights Reserved.

The Retention Brain Framework™ and Train the Mind. Retain the Strategy.™ are the intellectual property of Dr. Lavert and may not be replicated, distributed, or implemented without 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

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Allandra Russell, founder of The Teachers’ Hub and Turning Pages, to unpack a powerful truth: real growth cannot always be measured by a test. At some point, we’ve all been guilty of chasing scores, but the longer we remain in this profession, the clearer it becomes—student success is about the journey, the growth, and the becoming.

Together, we dive into the limits of test-driven accountability, explore alternative ways to measure success, and celebrate the testimonies of transformation that numbers often fail to capture. This is a reminder for teachers and district leaders alike: if we want to honor every student’s story, we must look beyond the data.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges old narratives, uplifts teacher voices, and redefines what it truly means for students to succeed.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 Allandra Russell

Allandra Russell is a Bahamian educator and entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience in both General and Special Education. She is the founder of Turning Pages Learning Studio and The Teachers’ Hub, initiatives designed to bridge literacy and innovation through modern, inclusive learning. Her work focuses on empowering teachers and helping students of all abilities to reach their full potential. 

www.linkedin.com/in/allandra-russell

facebook.com/turningpages242

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

In this powerful episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with education consultant Tangela Leggett to confront the reality of teacher burnout. From the systemic pressures facing today’s educators to the unique struggles in high-needs schools, Tangela unpacks the root causes of burnout and shares strategies to help teachers reclaim their well-being.

This conversation is raw, real, and deeply needed—whether you’re a teacher navigating burnout yourself, an administrator trying to support your staff, or a parent who wants to understand what’s happening behind the classroom door.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 Tangela Leggett

Tangela is a current school leader in North Carolina. She had experience supporting new teachers. She is the founder and CEO of Leggett Educational Consulting, where she works with schools to retain new teachers by boosting teacher confidence so that they thrive inside and outside of the classroom. 

*Social Media: 

Instagram/TikTok: @leggetteduconsulting

LinkedIn/Facebook: Leggett Educational Consulting

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

In this 5-minute guided meditation, join me from the shores of Cancún as we slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the healing rhythm of fresh air. Feel the calm of ocean waves, the warmth of sunlight, and the quiet peace that comes from simply being present. This short practice is your reminder that no matter where you are, clarity and calm are just one breath away.

Take a deep breath — and let’s begin. 🌿

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

It’s our 100th episode! To celebrate, Ms. Thompson hands over the mic to her former student Michelle Moses, who interviews her about the journey, the lessons learned, and what’s next for Everything But The Lesson Plan. From behind-the-scenes stories to reflections on impact, this milestone episode is a heartfelt look back—and a powerful look forward. Tune in and celebrate with us!”

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 Michelle Moses

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-moses-0a7861360/

Instagram: @hairbych3llyyyy

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

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, I sit down with Kenneth L. Johnson Jr., an educational leader dedicated to recruiting and supporting passionate teachers. We talk about the urgent need for educators, the pathway to becoming one, and why teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling. Tune in to discover how teachers can thrive, why their role is vital for students, and how this career shapes the future.

About Kenneth L. Johnson, Jr.

Kenneth L. Johnson, Jr. is an accomplished educator, consultant, and human resources executive with 19 years of experience in K-12 education and leadership development. He has served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal, later advancing to state-level leadership as Co-Director of the Governor’s School Leadership Academy Aspiring Principal Program. Currently, he is the Director of Human Resources for the Richmond County School System, where he leads strategic initiatives to strengthen leadership pipelines, enhance educator support, and improve outcomes for students. As owner and principal consultant of Zenith Growth Solutions, Kenneth also provides strategic advising, leadership coaching, and team development services to educational institutions and non-profits. He is pursuing a PhD in Educational Administration and Policy at the University of Georgia, where his research focuses on principal leadership and school improvement. Rooted in his faith and inspired by his family, Kenneth remains committed to empowering leaders and organizations to reach their fullest potential.

*Social Media: @KLJohnsonJr - Instagram & LinkedIn

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

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.

In this inspiring episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Dr. Kimberly West, founder of Teach STEM Global, to unpack why advancing STEM education globally matters now more than ever. From the lens of an educator, Dr. West shares how teachers can break down barriers, spark innovation, and empower the next generation of problem-solvers—no matter where they live. Tune in for insights, ideas, and practical steps to help you think globally while teaching locally.

About Dr. Kimberly West Dr. Kimberly West is a distinguished educator and educational consultant with a commitment to fostering learning among diverse populations, including English language learners and students with disabilities. Throughout her career, she has garnered numerous accolades, such as Teacher of the Year and Outstanding Technology Teacher of the Year. Dr. West has also dedicated her expertise to the development of instructional and assessment resources, enhancing educational practices. Furthermore, she has taken on the role of mentor teacher, guiding pre-service and early-career educators in their professional journeys.

In 2022, following a transformative trip to Ghana, Dr. West founded Teach STEM Africa, a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing STEM education across the continent. By 2025, the organization rebranded as Teach STEM Global, reflecting its mission to expand its impact on a global scale.

*Social Media: 

@TeachSTEMGlobal on IG, Tik Tok, LinkedIn, and Facebook

About Franchesca ThompsonWelcome to the "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:⁠   / ⁠  Facebook:⁠   / ithrive12⁠ 

 Instagram: ithrive_12

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

The Educator’s Voice – Classroom Stories with Kayron Spellman Step inside the classroom walls and hear what really happens between the bells. In this heartfelt episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson launches a brand‑new segment—“The Educator’s Voice.” No scripts, no filters—just genuine stories that capture the highs, lows, and unforgettable “aha!” moments of teaching.

About Kayron Spellman 

Kayron Spellman is a dedicated Special Education teacher with a passion for empowering exceptional learners. He creates supportive and inclusive classrooms where every student is valued, challenged, and celebrated for their unique strengths. With a mission to foster independence, build confidence, and nurture growth, Kayron works to help each child reach their fullest potential—academically, socially, and emotionally.

*Please list social media: Social Media:

• 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/KayronSpellman

• 📸 Instagram: @Kayron_Tylesha

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to the "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:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/⁠

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

• Instagram: ithrive_12

• Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠

Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive12/page/7B59A01F-7FDB-460B-AB17-E71E26836B3A?ref_=cm_sw_r_ud_ast_store_JGSDBACHJC9AHHTJ6XVM