Everything But The Lesson Plan

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with educator and SEL strategist Winona Jones-Archie to unpack what Social and Emotional Learning really means beyond the behavior charts and buzzwords. From the post-pandemic realities facing students to the controversy around SEL in schools, Winona offers clear insights, culturally responsive strategies, and practical tools for teachers who want to support the whole child—without burning out.

About Winona Jones-Archie

Winona Jones-Archie is a highly skilled, creative professional with an exemplary record of mentoring, training, and professional learning, with demonstrated leadership skills in instructional planning and professional development. With over 30 years of experience in public education, Winona has served in various roles including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade teacher, Early Intervention Program (EIP) teacher, Teacher Support Specialist, Early Numeracy Specialist, Instructional Coach, Core Content Specialist, Math Instructional Specialist, and Assistant Principal. She recently retired from Gwinnett County Public Schools where she was the Coordinator of Social Emotional Learning for the last 2 years. She has served as a GIFT Coach at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) and is currently a professional learning contractor with CharacterStrong. Throughout her career, Winona has played an integral role in teacher/leader mentoring and effectiveness by modeling best practices for educators across the Atlanta Metro Area. She holds a B.A. in early childhood education from Clark-Atlanta University, a M.Ed. from Central Michigan University, an EdS from Lincoln Memorial University, and also obtained her Leadership Certification from the University of Georgia. Winona is skilled in Career Development, Coaching, Lesson Planning, Educational Technology, and Instructional Design in the primary/secondary education industry. She is "widely recognized throughout the state as the personification of excellence in education" 

*Social Media:

 www.linkedin.com/in/winonajarchie1908

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

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with literacy expert Regina Wright to tackle a challenge many educators face: supporting at-risk readers in the general education classroom. From breaking down who “at-risk” students really are, to exploring practical strategies like SLDM (Self-Regulated Learning and Development Model) and RTI (Response to Intervention), this conversation offers tools teachers can use right away.

Together, Franchesca and Regina highlight the crucial role teachers play in closing learning gaps—reminding us that the same support and feedback students need, teachers deserve too. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a seasoned veteran, this episode will leave you with tangible strategies, renewed confidence, and a clear message: no teacher, and no student, should be left behind.

About Regina Wright

Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia in a family of educators, Regina has always had a passion for serving others, especially children. Working from the church nursery to tutoring 2nd graders, Regina believes in providing students with life long skills to be functional and comprehensive members of society. Regina has her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Cedarville University and will graduate with her Master’s in December in Elementary Education with a reading endorsement for Georgia State University. She is currently teaching 3rd grade literacy in Gwinnett County. 

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

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school, and why was she/he your favorite? In this episode, Sadiyah shares the time when she met her favorite teacher. Good teachers make a difference in the lives of students. Let’s hear how this happened for Ms.Sadiyah Ali Nur.

About Sadiyah Ali Nur

Sadiyah Ali Nur is a dedicated registered nurse with nearly five years of experience in the field. Outside of the hospital, she’s a co-host of the ‘Life is Weird’ podcast. Known for her balance of heart and humor, Sadiyah brings both compassion and charisma to every space she enters. When she’s not charting or podcasting, you can find her dancing, hitting the gym, hopping on a flight, or spending quality time with the people who ground her. She’s passionate about wellness, storytelling, and living life with intentional joy. Whether in scrubs or sneakers, Sadiyah is always finding ways to connect, inspire, and keep it real!

*Social Media: 

IG: @QueSadiyah_

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-is-weird/id1669809302

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

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, financial expert Lisa Matthews joins Franchesca to explore why retirement is more than just saving—it’s about creating a vision for the life you want. From dreaming big to planning smart, this conversation helps educators prepare for a future filled with purpose, not just pensions.

About Lisa Matthews

Lisa Matthews is the CEO and Co-Founder of Ask Bree and Lisa, LLC. Alongside her co-founder, she is a licensed financial professional specializing in helping individuals grow their money both risk-free and tax-free through strategic retirement planning. Motivated by personal experiences with the consequences of inadequate financial preparation within their own families, the founders established the company with a mission to inspire everyday individuals to dream again. They believe that everyone—regardless of their starting point—deserves the chance to envision and achieve their ideal retirement. Their work goes beyond traditional financial advising, offering comprehensive strategies designed to transform retirement goals into attainable realities.

*Social Media: For Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn - Askbreeandlisa, askbreeandlisa.com - WEBSITE

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 information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult with a licensed financial advisor or other qualified professionals to determine what may be best for your individual needs. Lisa Matthews and Ask Bree and Lisa, LLC are not affiliated with any school district or government agency.

In this soothing and eye-opening episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with a tea expert to explore how teachers can use tea as a daily act of self-care and healing. From stress relief and immune support to simple mindfulness rituals, you’ll learn how what’s in your cup can help refill what’s missing in your tank. Whether you’re new to tea or already steeping your way through the week, this episode invites you to slow down, sip intentionally, and care for yourself—one cup at a time.

The information shared in this episode of “Everything But The Lesson Plan” is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new wellness practices, including herbal supplements or teas, especially if you have existing medical conditions, take medications, or are pregnant or nursing. The views expressed by Dr. Michelle Clay are her own and based on her expertise in holistic health. Listener discretion is advised when implementing any health-related recommendations discussed in this episode.

About Dr. Michelle Clay

Dr. Michelle Clay is a Physician, Certified Holistic Health Counselor, Clinical Nutritionist, and Executive Coach who empowers fabulous women 40+ to live with purpose, age gracefully, and navigate midlife transitions with ease. Through FREEALITEA, she blends conventional medicine with Native herbal wisdom to offer premium loose‑leaf herbal teas, immersive wellness experiences, and transformative retreat journeys that release stress, recharge health, and naturally enhance intimacy. She holds a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) from Ohio University with certifications in Holistic Health Counseling and Clinical Nutrition. As an executive coach, she helps women leaders align personal and professional goals and move through career and life shifts with clarity, confidence, and grace. Continuing her great‑grandfather’s legacy, she unites time‑honored botanicals with modern health practices to help women thrive—inside and out—creating a life they deserve and desire.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michelle-clay-do-freealitea/

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
  

In this powerful episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, I sit down with the remarkable Dr. Pitmon—an educator who faced unimaginable decisions about her career and calling after receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis.Together, they explore what it means to lead a classroom while facing personal battles, how to find strength when your body feels weak, and why teaching can become a source of healing. 

This episode is a tribute to the teachers who keep showing up—with courage, vulnerability, and unmatched resilience. It’s about navigating grief, fear, and fatigue while still creating moments of joy and connection for students. Whether you’re currently facing a diagnosis, supporting a colleague through one, or simply need a reminder that you’re not alone—this conversation will touch your heart and lift your spirit.

Because sometimes, the most powerful lessons are the ones that never make it into the plan.

Minister Dr. Jamila T. Pitmon is a dynamic educator, chaplain, and servant leader dedicated to faith, family, and service. A proud Los Angeles native and graduate of Tuskegee University, she holds dual bachelor's degrees in Business Administration and Sales & Marketing, an MBA in International Marketing, and a Doctor of Business Administration in Social Media Marketing. In 2025, she completed her Chaplaincy Certification with the American Chaplaincy Association.

Dr. Pitmon is a licensed minister under the leadership of Bishop William L. Sheals and serves as the Chaplain for the Gwinnett County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she was honored with the Pinnacle Award for her outstanding service. Despite a stage four pancreatic cancer diagnosis, she continues to lead with grace, inspiring others through her faith, strength, and commitment to doing the “Greater Works” of ministry. Her life motto, “God is Good,” reflects her unwavering gratitude and belief in the power of giving thanks in all things.

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

 In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Dr. Brett Wallace from Houston County School District in Warner Robins, Georgia, a school leader dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive school culture. They dive into the strategies and practices that foster a supportive environment for both students and staff. From high-needs schools to thriving classrooms, this conversation unpacks the power of school culture in shaping the success of educators, students, and the broader school community. Join us as we explore how to build a school culture that makes everyone feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Dr. Brett Wallace is the Principal of Warner Robins High School in the Houston County School District in Warner Robins, Georgia. Prior to WRHS, Dr. Wallace was the Principal at Warner Robins Middle School for over 12 years. In his 30 years in education, he spent the first 10 years as a teacher in Physical Education and Special Education, and the last 20 years as a school level administrator.

Dr. Wallace earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Jacksonville State University and a master’s degree from Georgia College and State University. He received an Education Specialist degree, as well as a Doctor of Education from Columbus State University. He is married to Dr. Tonya Wallace, Assistant Principal at the Houston College & Career Academy. They have four children – Daniel, Reed, Shelby and Maggie, who is a middle school ELA teacher.

 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

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.

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

In this special episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson invites educators to take a well-deserved pause and reconnect with themselves. As the school year wraps up and summer break begins, it’s easy to carry the weight of the year’s stress with us. This episode features a calming, 4-minute meditation designed to help teachers release tension, reflect on their growth, and embrace a peaceful and restorative summer. Whether you’re in need of a mental reset or just a moment of stillness, this meditation will guide you toward the relaxation and rejuvenation you need to step into the summer fully recharged. It’s time to focus on you—because you’ve earned it.

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

 In this episode, we explore the impact of TED Talks as a tool for classroom engagement, featuring Jacqui Chew, TEDx ATL Speaker and Storyteller. We discuss practical ways to integrate TED Talks into teaching, how they can foster creativity, and the role of storytelling in education. Tune in for inspiration on transforming your classroom environment with the power of TED!
Jacqui Chew

Jacqui Chew is a dynamic leader at the intersection of technology, marketing, and community impact. She is the visionary President and licensee of TEDxAtlanta, guiding one of the largest TEDx stages in Georgia—from its inception as TEDxPeachtree in 2009 to today’s vibrant, sold‑out events under her stewardship atdc.org+11businessradiox.com+11businessradiox.com+11.

Linkedin - linkedin.com/in/jacquichew

IG - https://www.instagram.com/ifusion.co/

Threads - https://www.threads.com/@ifusion.co

TEDEd: https://ed.ted.com/

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