What happens when a teacher becomes someone students don’t outgrow?This thought-provoking episode centers on Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter and asks a powerful question: How do you measure the impact of a teacher whose influence lasts long after the class roster changes?Through a parent’s heartfelt reflections and her children, some of them now students navigating high school, we reflect on the lasting influence of middle school teacher Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter who went beyond academics to truly see, support, and believe in her students. The conversation centers on what it means when a teacher leads with love—when encouragement replaces judgment and when a classroom becomes a place of safety, trust, and belonging.Listeners will hear how small, consistent acts of care can leave lifelong impressions. The kind of impact that doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through genuine connection and unwavering belief in kids.We also explore the broader culture of Hiatt Middle School, highlighting how fairness, care, and consistency from teachers—and all staff, shape a sense of belonging for students.The episode expands the lens to school culture as a whole, recognizing that schools are communities. From teachers to support staff to the cafateria workers to maintenance teams, every adult plays a role in making students feel valued. When kids know they are cared for by everyone in the building, it changes how they show up—not just in class, but in life.More Than a Teacher is ultimately a message of gratitude and recognition. It honors educators who shape hearts as much as minds, and it invites us all to reflect on the teachers who helped us become who we are today.Thank you Ms. Kelli Franklin-Carter for all that you do for the students! Thank you Tammy and your kids Jasmine, Damien, and Dominick for being guests on the podcast and sharing!

In this impactful and heartwarming conversation, Breanne Ward, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Founder of ForWard Consulting, shares her expertise on guiding emotional wellness, building awareness, and supporting youth through every phase of growth.Breanne shares what first inspired her to pursue a career in mental health counseling and trauma-focused care — and how that passion led her to launch ForWard Consulting in 2014.Together, we unpack some of the most common misconceptions surrounding trauma and healing, and dive into how schools, families, and communities can work together to support youth mental wellness.From building emotional literacy in elementary students, to helping middle schoolers navigate peer pressure and identity, to supporting high schoolers under academic and social stress — Breanne offers practical insights and heartfelt strategies for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about youth well-being.This episode reminds us that mental health is not a luxury — it’s a lifelong lesson that deserves space in every classroom, conversation, and community.Thank you Breanne Ward for being a guest on the podcast and sharing your insight!

In this inspiring episode of Do The Math 247 "Math Talk", I sit down with Renee Welk — a seasoned mentor, coach, and author with over three decades of experience helping people navigate growth, change, and self-discovery.

Renee shares how her lifelong passion for guiding others led her to write "Ease the Chaos", a book that blends real stories, wisdom, and practical tools for finding peace amid life’s storms. She also introduces her unique and memorable metaphor — “bubble wrap.” The “bubble wrap” concept represents the emotional protection, grace, and support we offer one another — the people and practices that help cushion life’s rough edges.

Listeners will gain insight into the book’s core message: that chaos isn’t something to fear, but something to understand and ease through mindset shifts, self-awareness, and compassion.

✨ Stay tuned for this inspiring conversation — you don’t want to miss it!