Everything But The Lesson Plan is back with an inspiring and informative episode for educators considering the next big step in their professional journey—pursuing a PhD. Our guest host, Dr. Malika Grayson, author of the powerful memoirHooded, shares her experience navigating the challenges of earning a doctorate. We dive into the reasons why teachers should consider a PhD or EdD, how to balance work and studies, and the doors that open after earning the degree. Dr. Grayson also offers practical advice on choosing the right program, overcoming imposter syndrome, and making the most of your teaching experience in academic research. If you’ve ever wondered whether a PhD is for you, this episode covers everything you need to know! Tune in and get inspired to take your career to the next level.

About Dr. Malika Grayson 

Dr. Malika Grayson is the founder of STEMinist Empowered LLC, dedicated to bridging the representation gap in STEM through keynotes, workshops, and mentorship. As a Technology Program Manager, she leads engineers in developing innovative solutions. A global speaker and bestselling author, Dr. Grayson has received numerous honors, including SWE’s Advocating Women in Engineering Award and BEYA STEM’s Modern Day Technology Leader. She also founded ASPIRE STEM, providing financial aid to young women pursuing STEM degrees. Dr. Grayson serves on multiple advisory boards, including DiscoverE, STEMNoire, and Cornell University’s Alumni Advisory Board.

Instagram: @drmalikagrayoson

LinkedIn - Malika Grayson

Check out her book:https://www.amazon.com/Hooded-Black-Girls-Guide-Ph-D/dp/1953307027

About The Host: 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.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Thrive-12

#Listen to #EverythingButTheLessonPlan #Thrive12 #education #teacherpodcast #teacherspayteachers #teachersfollowteachers #teach #classroomideas teacherpod

Everything But The Lesson Plan is a podcast dedicated to exploring the stories, challenges, and triumphs of educators beyond the classroom curriculum. In this episode, we highlight the incredible contributions of Black educational leaders who have shaped history and transformed learning. From Mary McLeod Bethune’s unwavering commitment to education to Marva Collins' groundbreaking work in Chicago, we dive into the stories of visionaries who fought for educational equity. Tune in for an inspiring journey through history and discover how these leaders continue to impact classrooms today.

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!

Why should you think about becoming a teacher? Listen to this episode with Tonya Walker- Harris  and her “why” behind choosing education as a career. We hope this episode encourages and motivates you! Keep Thriving Educators! 

About Tonya Walker-Harris

Tonya Walker Harris has been an educator for over 25 years. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Winston-Salem State University, completed B-K Certification courses at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, and pursued Administration courses at Central Piedmont Community College. Throughout her career, Tonya has been deeply involved with Head Start Programs, dedicating five years to Community Action in Fayetteville, North Carolina, another five years to Cobb County Head Start in Marietta, Georgia, and over two decades with the Alliance Center for Education Head Start Program. Her roles have included Teacher Assistant, Lead Classroom Teacher, and, most recently, Center Director.Tonya's passion for the Head Start Program is rooted in her own background and personal experiences. 

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!

Store:⁠ https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Thrive-1

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school, and why was she/he your favorite? In this episode, Jamilya Mayo-McAllister shares the time when she met her favorite teacher. Good teachers make a difference in the lives of students. Let’s hear how this happen for Mrs. Jamilya Mayo-McAllister

About Jamilya Mayo-McAllister

My name is Jamilya (McRae) Mayo-McAllister. I’m married to Charlie and have one son, Jamil and two dogs, Pinder and Zoey. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations and a minor in Economics from the renowned Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, FL. I have an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Nova Southeastern University and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Devry University, Keller Graduate School of Management. I am a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and am dedicated to serving my community. I’m also a faithful member of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington, MD, where I sing in the music ministry. 

In 2019, right before the Pandemic, I resigned from my teaching job, moved to Washington, DC area to work in the Federal Government. I currently work as a Program Manager and Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) in Northern Virginia. 

I have a strong faith in God and love my family. I am a loyal friend and compassionate about caring for people. 

Here are a few mottos that I live by:

“Be a light everywhere you go. Treat everyone with dignity and respect!”

“Show compassion for others and yourself!”

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamilyamcraemayo/

About The Host: 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

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with professional photographer Jack Manning to explore the importance of having a professional headshot as an educator. Jack shares his expert insights on the differences between selfies and professional headshots, the psychology behind a great photo, and why a polished image matters in today’s digital world.

From the key elements of a standout headshot to wardrobe tips and how to project confidence and approachability, this episode offers practical advice for teachers looking to update their professional image. Whether you’re building your online presence, preparing for a conference, or just updating your school bio, Jack explains how a professional headshot can strengthen your personal brand and open doors for new opportunities.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Everything But The Lesson Plan Podcast on your favorite podcast platform to stay up-to-date on all our episodes.

About Jack Manning, III

Jaxon Photo Group

Director, Photographer, Producer

Bio: Jack Manning III was born in Rochester, Michigan. Throughout his childhood he was often found with a pencil in his hand drawing some of his favorite cartoon characters and automobiles. Once he was accepted to Hampton University he majored in Graphic Design and Photography, graduating in 2002. Post-graduation, Mr. Manning eventually became a full-time freelance photographer. Starting his own business, JAXON PHOTO GROUP, he set out to make a living doing the thing that he loves the most, Visual Arts. His work has been published in Deadline, Variety, Marie Claire, Forbes, Black Enterprise, Essence, Ebony, BET, ABC’s Good Morning America, Billboard.com, multiple images featured in Times Square Billboards in New York City, and countless websites and blogs that focus on fashion, beauty, advertising, and weddings.

Over the years Jack has nurtured his passion for television and film. His debut short film “FLIPPED”, was well-received by festival audiences across the United States. He is also the brainchild behind Tyler Street Films, LLC, the production company he formed with fellow Hampton University alums, Lawrence Watford, and Tiffany Elle Burgess. He continues to work as a Director, photographer, videographer, and producer in Atlanta, Georgia.

www.jaxonphotogroup.com

Instagram: @jaxonphotogroup 

LinkedIn: Jack Manning III

About The Host: 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.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Thrive-12

In this episode, we dedicate four minutes to help teachers unwind, recharge, and reconnect with themselves. As educators, the demands of the classroom can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to take time for self-care. This guided mindful moment offers a calming pause, helping you release tension, embrace positivity, and remind yourself of your impact. Whether you’re in the middle of a busy day or winding down after school, this short session is designed to help you reset and refocus. Take a breath—you deserve this.

About The Host: 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!

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, we sit down with Mia Masten, an executive coach and healthcare advocate, to explore the power of purpose-driven work for educators. Teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. But how can teachers stay connected to their "why" in the face of burnout, stress, and ever-growing demands?

Mia shares practical strategies to help educators align their passion with their profession, overcome common barriers, and create a sustainable, fulfilling career. From building supportive communities to prioritizing self-care, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help teachers rediscover their purpose and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

About Mia T. Masten 
Mia T. Masten is an accomplished leader in public affairs, government relations, and corporate policy. She has led a distinguished career, driving real change in the healthcare and consumer goods sectors. Committed to health and well-being, overall equity, and empowerment, Mia partners with advocates to advance public affairs objectives for national and global organizations, she demonstrates strategic leadership skills and an ability to influence a wide range of public policy.

As a professionally trained executive life coach, Mia works with high-achieving professionals and leaders who’ve checked all the boxes of success, but still feel like something is missing. Deeply committed to improving equity and understanding through innovation, collaboration, and excellence, Mia believes in "doing well while doing good." 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-masten/

Website:  www.alignedpathway.com/

LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/prioritizing-mental-health-business-case-employee-mia-masten-nhq9e/?trackingId=z07L5YEZTCOz236DqVgQVA%3D%3D

About The Host: 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!

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, we’re simplifying nutrition with guest host Johane M. Filemon, a registered dietitian and gut health expert. Johane empowers individuals to achieve their health goals through personalized anti-inflammatory gut rehabilitation therapies and creative food plans.

Please Speak To Your Doctor Before Changing in Nutrition Guidance

Join us as we discuss why proper nutrition is essential for busy educators, how gut health impacts energy and focus, and simple strategies to incorporate healthier eating into your daily routine. From quick meal ideas to overcoming common barriers, Johane makes eating well feel attainable, even on the most hectic days.

Tune in to discover how small, sustainable changes to your diet can help you thrive both inside and outside the classroom!

About Johane Filemon

Johane M. Filemon, MS, RDN, CLT is an Atlanta-based Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, gut health and anti-inflammatory therapist with over 18 years of experience in the field of Nutrition. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Exercise Science and Dietetics and a master’s degree in Food and Nutrition Science. Her practice Wonderfully Nutritious Solutions, LLC is focused on helping others reverse chronic inflammation through food by utilizing functional and holistic nutrition and getting to the root cause of symptoms. She believes that a healthy lifestyle should be inclusive of culture and not one-size-fits-all. Because her practice is virtual, Johane has been able to help people all over the country optimize their health through sustainable, person-specific, culture-inclusive therapies. She is the mother of 5 young boys whom she loves teaching how to create delicious meals in the kitchen and embrace their Haitian culture.

Instagram: blacknutritionistmama

About The Host: 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!

Thank you for joining us onEverything But The Lesson Plan! We hope today’s conversation with Ms. Cassie Owens Moore has left you feeling inspired and equipped with new ideas to encourage reading in your classroom, no matter the challenges. From creating engaging environments to finding cost-effective resources, there are so many ways to make reading accessible and exciting for our students. A huge thank you to Ms. Moore for sharing her wisdom and practical tips—your passion for literacy and commitment to supporting students is a true inspiration. 

And thank you to all our listeners for tuning in and dedicating your time to building stronger, more resourceful classrooms. If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share with your fellow educators, and leave us a review! Until next time, remember: every small effort to foster a love of reading can make a world of difference in a child’s life. Let’s keep making it happen, one page at a time. See you in the next episode ofEverything But The Lesson Plan Keep Thriving!

About Cassie Owens Moore 

Cassie Owens Moore has been an educator for 23 years, spending 18 years as a middle school ELA teacher, 1 year as a college reading instructor, and the past 4 four years as a middle school librarian.  Her school library received the 2024 South Carolina Library Program of the Year award from the South Carolina Association of School Librarians, where Moore is also the Intellectual Freedom Chair.  Being a librarian is her dream job.

Instagram–@thelocdlibrarian

Bluesky–@thelocdlibrarian.bsky.social

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson is joined by Nisha Glen, founder of Educated Girls Rock, to explore how we can help at-risk girls not only stay in school but also cross the finish line to graduation. Nisha shares her organization’s inspiring work in mentoring and empowering young girls facing significant challenges, from poverty to family instability. Together, they dive into the barriers these girls face, the power of mentorship, and the role schools and communities can play in building a strong support system. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply passionate about making a difference, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help young girls succeed. Don’t miss it!

About Nisha Glen 

Nisha Glen is the proud founder of Educated Girls Rock, a nonprofit that empowers high school girls to break educational barriers and excel academically. 

Our mission stems from her personal journey, overcoming limited family support for higher education and ensuring no other girl faces these challenges alone. We change the narrative by recognizing student achievements, celebrating every step of their educational journey. Our scholarships, though modest, significantly support students’ dreams. We also encourage adult women to return to school, proving that education has no age limit. Through organized college tours, we expose girls to higher education opportunities, inspiring them to dream big. There have been tough times when giving up seemed easier, but our commitment to these girls and our community keeps us pushing forward. At Educated Girls Rock, we’re creating a ripple effect of empowerment and success, transforming lives and communities, one empowered girl at a time."

About The Host: 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!

#Listen to #EverythingButTheLessonPlan #Thrive12 #education #teacherpodcast #teacherspayteachers #teachersfollowteachers #teach #classroomideas teacherpod