We’re looking forward to introducing you to Franchesca Thompson. Check out our conversation below.
Franchesca, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I am absolutely walking a path, one that is intentional, purpose-driven, and rooted in service. I’m currently pursuing my PhD in Workforce Education at the University of Georgia, where my work centers on teacher well-being. I’m focused on the inner lives of educators, on the emotional labor that teachers carry, and on the systems that too often overlook their mental wellness.
The path I’m on is guided by thinkers who have shaped my understanding of healing and humanity: bell hooks, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Jon Kabat-Zinn. Their teachings remind me that mindfulness, love, and liberation are not optional add-ons in education; they are essential.
This is not wandering.
This is walking with intention.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Franchesca Thompson, and I am a Career Academy Coach, podcaster, and doctoral student committed to transforming how schools support both students and educators. Through my podcast, Everything But The Lesson Plan, I amplify teacher voices and share practical tools that nurture wellness, creativity, and purpose in education.
I am also building Thrive12, a year-round resource platform that blends mindfulness, wellness, and professional growth to help teachers feel affirmed, supported, and inspired to thrive. After witnessing too many educators leave the profession due to a lack of guidance, community, and emotional support, I’ve made it my mission to create spaces where teachers feel seen and valued.
In addition to supporting educators, I work with students in grades 9–12 on their career exploration journeys, helping them see the world without limits and believe in possibilities that extend far beyond their current circumstances. At South Gwinnett High School, I want every student to know that their dreams are valid and achievable, even when the path feels challenging.
I love education deeply and remain committed to uplifting both teachers and students while building environments where everyone has room to grow and thrive.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe bonds break when people stop feeling valued, supported, or cared for. Whether it’s a child growing up in a home lacking love and stability, or an adult placing trust in a friend, coworker, or partner, relationships fracture when the emotional needs at the center of connection go unmet. When we trust someone, we open a sacred space within ourselves, and when that space is mishandled, the hurt can be deep and lasting. Bonds require intentional care. It’s a space where you are consistently pouring into the relationship. When that doesn’t happen, even long-standing friendships can unravel in seconds. Yet restoration is possible. Healing takes time, honesty, and a willingness to rebuild what was broken. As bell hooks reminds us, “When we face pain in relationships, our first response is often to sever bonds rather than to maintain commitment.” True reconnection requires choosing commitment and choosing to repair what still holds meaning. Opening your heart….
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain the moment I leaned fully into my podcast. Everything But The Lesson Plan became a healing journey for me, one that slowly broke me out of the belief that I wasn’t good enough. As I grew more confident sharing my story, I realized that my vulnerability had power. By pouring out my knowledge, my struggles, my lessons, and even my pain, I was actually filling someone else’s cup. I discovered that I am a storyteller at heart and that my lived experiences could serve as a blueprint for someone else’s healing. Stepping into that truth helped me confront imposter syndrome, something so many Black women navigate daily. Now, I use my platform to remind us that we are powerful, brilliant, and deserving of being heard. When you silence your voice, you might be missing the chance to change someone’s life. So my advice is to speak with confidence, don’t shrink yourself, or stay silent.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is making sure teachers and students, especially those in underserved communities, feel supported, seen, and valued. They’d tell you I care deeply about creating spaces where educators don’t burn out and where students have access to opportunities they’ve never imagined. More than anything, they’d say I’m driven by a heart for service and a belief that every person deserves someone in their corner. I’m rooting for the underdog.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m walking, something I learned early in my career to protect my well-being as an educator. My daily walks have become my sanctuary, a space where I can meditate, pray, reflect, and dream without interruption. There’s something powerful about connecting with nature, noticing God’s creations, and feeling in harmony with the world around me. Those quiet moments replenish me, ground me, and provide the clarity I need to continue pursuing my goals. Self-care isn’t a luxury for me anymore. It’s essential, and it’s where my peace begins.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thrive12.com/
- Instagram: mrsfranchesca_t
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franchesca-thompson95/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ithrive12/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ebtlp
- Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5FIqTKhVEV5GLlZqouzTn1?si=141bd6b139484cfc
Iheart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-everything-but-the-lesson-297347816/
