Everything But The Lesson Plan

In this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, we dive deep into the transformative power of Culturally Relevant Pedagogy with Dr. Lawrence Robinson, an expert in the field and the author of a groundbreaking dissertation on its impact in music education. Dr. Robinson discusses how incorporating students' cultural backgrounds into teaching methods can enhance engagement, foster a sense of belonging, and ultimately improve academic success—especially for students from marginalized communities.

Join us as we explore practical strategies for educators to create inclusive and culturally responsive classrooms that reflect and respect the identities of all students. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just beginning your teaching journey, this episode offers invaluable insights for making your teaching more meaningful, inclusive, and impactful.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how to turn culturally relevant pedagogy into action.

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 explores how educators can harness the power of Meta’s platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—to reimagine classroom engagement and connection.

If you're ready to think outside the box, take a few creative risks, and explore how social media tools can become educational assets, this episode is for you.

Franchesca breaks down:

• How Facebook Groups can foster class discussions and build learning communities
  

• The power of Instagram for visual storytelling and student projects
  

• Real-world examples and tips for integrating Meta into your teaching practice

This episode is geared toward bold, innovative educators and school leaders who are ready to embrace change and explore new ways to connect with students.

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 explores what it truly means to support students with special needs beyond the classroom. Join us as we dive into the importance of life skills, community integration, and employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism.

Franchesca sits down with Mary Justman, Vice President of Resource and Development for WOW In-Sync, Inc., a Georgia-based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering adults with special needs through essential life skills training and workforce readiness programs.

Together, they discuss the challenges families face during the transition from school to adulthood, the life-changing work WOW In-Sync is doing in the community, and practical ways educators, families, and advocates can help bridge the gap.

If you believe that education is about more than just academics — and that every individual deserves the chance to live a fulfilling, independent life — this conversation is for you.

About Mary Justman 

Mary Justman serves as Vice President for both WOW In-Sync, a non-profit organization helping adults with developmental disabilities and autism develop life and career skills, and its subsidiary Mister Migs LLC, a manufacturing and retail distribution company providing haute couture dog gear such as clothing and accessories. In her position, she is the senior officer responsible for coordinating strategic planning processes and providing leadership on a broad range of strategy, policy, and governance matters for both companies.

WOW In-Sync is accredited by CARF International (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) in the areas of community integration, employment development, and employment planning.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-justman-6485a121/

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 of Everything But The Lesson Plan, we’re diving into the world of teacher evaluations and exploring how innovative districts like Houston ISD are leading the charge. Teacher evaluations don’t have to be stressful or dreaded—they can be powerful tools for growth, collaboration, and support. Join us as we explore real-world examples from schools at the forefront of educational change, where evaluations are personalized, actionable, and designed to help educators thrive. From Houston ISD’s multi-measure approach to personalized feedback systems, we’ll uncover the secrets to building an evaluation process that benefits everyone on the school team. Tune in to hear how schools are revolutionizing teacher feedback to drive success for educators and students alike!

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 powerful and personal episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with her mother, Leslie Baker, for an unforgettable conversation about resilience, education, and the teachers who make a lasting impact.

Leslie shares vivid memories of growing up during the Jim Crow era and transitioning into desegregated schools—a journey filled with fear, courage, and hope. As she reflects on the educators who saw her worth and helped her thrive in the face of systemic injustice, we’re reminded of the enduring influence teachers have, especially in times of social change.

Released during Teacher Appreciation Week and in honor of Mother’s Day, this episode is a tribute to the mothers who raised us and the teachers who shaped us. Tune in to hear a story of strength, history, and heart—and why education is never just about a classroom.

About Leslie Baker 

Leslie Baker was born and raised in the small town of Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she experienced firsthand the challenges of growing up during segregation and the transformative years of desegregation in the American South. A trailblazer in her own right, Leslie made history as the first African American graduate of the Dental Hygiene program in North Carolina.

A devoted wife, she married her high school sweetheart and together they raised three wonderful children. Leslie's story is one of perseverance, faith, and the lasting impact of education—and she continues to inspire others through her legacy and lived experience.

Instagram: lrbqueen63

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 heartfelt episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson is joined by Dr. Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith to explore what happens when faith is tested in times of uncertainty. From education cuts and job instability to national crises and the pressures of social media, many educators and community members are experiencing a deep sense of spiritual distress. Together, they unpack how doubt can coexist with belief, how to rebuild spiritual stability, and how we can support one another through crisis. Whether you're an educator navigating burnout or someone searching for hope in a turbulent world, this episode offers honest reflection, practical strategies, and a message of resilience and healing.

About Dr. Jaye Lynn Peabody SmithRev. Dr. Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith is a preacher, psychotherapist, and pastoral care educator. She is a licensed professional counselor and a certified professional counseling supervisor. She provides individual, group, and couples counseling from a faith-based perspective. Rev. Dr. Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith is also the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care & Counseling at BSK Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.She earned a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling, a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling, and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from Mercer University. She also earned a Master of Public Administration from New York University. She has a wealth of training in Clinical Pastoral Education.Social Media: @thepeabodypracticeAbout 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:⁠   / ⁠  Facebook:⁠   / ithrive12⁠  Instagram: ithrive_12Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.thrive12.com⁠Amazon Store:⁠ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thrive1...

In this powerful episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with director Emil Gallardo, the visionary behind the award-winning short film 1, 2, 3, All Eyes on Me.

Set in an elementary school classroom during a lockdown, the film captures a teacher’s worst nightmare—and the quiet heroism it takes to lead through fear.

Together, Franchesca and Emil explore:
🔸 The inspiration behind the film and the real-life stories that shaped it
🔸 The emotional and psychological toll crisis events take on teachers
🔸 What schools, communities, and policymakers can do to better protect students and support educators
🔸 Why storytelling like this is essential in driving empathy and action

This is more than a conversation—it’s a moment of truth.
A reminder that behind every lesson plan is a human heart doing its best to shield, protect, and love.

🎧 Tune in for a powerful dialogue that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

#EverythingButTheLessonPlan #SchoolSafety #TeacherVoices #EmilGallardo #123AllEyesOnMe #EducatorsMatter #StudentWellbeing #PodcastWithPurpose

About Emil Gallardo

Emil Gallardo is an Oscar-qualifying Mexican-American writer/director from Los Angeles. He's an HBO Directing Fellow, a 2023 CDDP finalist, and the winner of Panavision's Future Filmmaker award. He has been recognized for his ability to tell evocative stories that stand out for their authenticity and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

Emil’s first short, 1, 2, 3, ALL EYES ON ME resonated with audiences and festival juries alike, winning the Grand Prix Best Film award at HollyShorts, a Jury Award at the Austin Film Festival, Best Short at the NY Latino Film Festival and qualifying for the Academy Awards.

Social Media: IG: emilg80 / waterlightfilms

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

The Educator’s Voice – Classroom Stories with Renate MatthewsStep 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 Renate Matthews

Renate Matthews is a humble servant who married her high school sweetheart, and thus became the extremely proud mother of two magnificent children, now both adult collect grads, and one 12-year old granddaughter who just happens to be her business side-kick. She has been a business teacher in the city of Detroit for the last 20 years, and is currently teaching business education classes at a local charter high school where she serves as the DECA Advisor, the Chick-fil-A Leader Facilitator, and an Empowered Educator. She is also the founder/CEO of Strategic Youth Networking Community (better known as SYNC) where she focuses on helping black youth brand, or re-brand, themselves as business professionals.

Social Media: LinkedIn

Website: https://www.sync-e3.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

• 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, we sit down with educator and mentor Mikal Driver to discuss how teachers can better support young Black males in today’s classrooms.

Together, we explore the unique challenges Black boys face—from disproportionate discipline rates to lack of representation—and offer real, actionable strategies for creating more affirming and equitable learning spaces. Mikal shares insights on the importance of mentorship, relationship-building, and cultural responsiveness in helping Black male students thrive.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or advocate, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to make a meaningful impact.

Tune in, take notes, and join us in building a better future for all our students.

About Mikal Driver

Mikal Driver is a social innovator, educator, and visionary leader dedicated to empowering young people and transforming education.

As the Program Manager for The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship in Atlanta, Mikal supports the next generation of educators while championing early literacy and social development for young Black males. A proud Morehouse College graduate, he brings over a decade of experience in education, classroom management consulting, youth development, teacher coaching, and family engagement.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikal-driver/

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, we’re diving into the world of teacher influencers—educators who are using their voices beyond the classroom to inspire, educate, and even monetize their expertise. Our guest, Chris Alan Malak, an expert in personal branding and social media strategy, shares practical tips on how teachers can grow their online presence, engage with their audience, and create opportunities beyond traditional teaching. Whether you’re looking to start a side hustle, build a community, or simply share your teaching journey, this episode will give you the tools to get started. Tune in and learn how you can turn your passion for education into influence!

About  Chris Alan Malak

Helping Teachers Become Influencers & Make Money. Chris Alan Malak is a seasoned professional specializing in personal branding and social media strategy. Chris has become a trusted advisor in the digital marketing realm for educators around the world.

Social Media: 

• Teacherslovehacks
• Teacherslovehumor
• Teacher Related

https://teacherrelated.com/brands/

[email protected]

Better choice is my linkedin direct message: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-malak-msc-491457100/

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