SEL Convergence

Thom continues his reflections on belonging, reminding us that dignity, respect, and compassion are the foundation of every healthy school community.

Thom explores the building blocks of social awareness, diving into perspective, understanding, empathy, and compassion.

Thom powerfully reminds teachers, as they return to school, that it is relationships and human connection that truly make schools great.

Thom Stecher welcomes teachers back to the 2025–2026 school year by reflecting on the transformative power of belonging in our schools and communities.

Thom Stecher welcomes teachers back to school with messages of celebration, gratitude, and encouragement for every member of the school community.

In this heartfelt message, Thom reflects on the journey from self-awareness to self-management—one of the five core social-emotional competencies. With wisdom and warmth, he shares personal stories of navigating fear, discipline, motivation, and goal setting. As a 74-year-old, Thom reminds us that growth never stops—and that managing our emotions, stress, and habits is a courageous, lifelong pract...

A timely and powerful reflection from Thom Stecher on leading with courage, compassion, and conviction in a divided world, reminding us that dignity is essential and unity is our path forward.

Thom shares five meaningful book recommendations to inspire self-reflection, healing, and human connection this summer – not just for teachers, but for everyone.

In this restorative episode, Thom Stecher offers five powerful reminders for educators to slow down, unplug, and embrace true self-care this summer.

This episode is a gentle yet powerful invitation to reclaim your attention, show up with intention, and speak up for what matters most– even when it feels the most challenging.

Thom Stecher reflects on what remains essential in education—building relationships, inspiring purpose, and serving the greater good—after more than 50 years of experience.

In this heartfelt episode, Thom Stecher shares a deeply personal story of injury, loss, and the unexpected healing power of service. Through reflection and lived experience, he reminds us that when our burdens feel heaviest, offering care to someone else may be the very thing that helps lighten our own.

Thom’s historical perspective on SEL. SEL has always been around; we’ve just called it something different.

In this powerful episode, Thom Stecher draws on 51 years in education to unpack the growing discomfort around words like diversity, equity, and inclusion. With honesty and heart, he challenges the narrative and offers a grounding truth: diversity isn’t a debate—it’s a fact of life and an essential part of being human.

Scott Heydt and Jessie McFarland join Thom to discuss their graduate course on resiliency and asset building for at-risk youth. EDUC 532 is a part of Neumann University's Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Social Emotional Learning program. More information can be found ⁠here⁠ . This course is designed to move our students from risk to resiliency by identifying and fostering th...

Dawn Mader and Deb Moore join Thom to discuss their graduate course exploring culturally responsive teaching. EDUC 505 is a part of Neumann University's Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Social Emotional Learning program. More information can be found here . This course will include provide students with a framework for becoming culturally responsive teachers.  An assortment o...

Mark Eisenhuth and Chris Palochak join Thom to discuss their graduate course exploring philosophical foundations for instructional leaders. EDUC 500 is a part of Neumann University's Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Social Emotional Learning program. More information can be found here .

Chris Engler and Jessie McFarland discuss their educator wellness course and the importance of self-care. EDUC 512 is a part of Neumann University's Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Social Emotional Learning program. More information can be found here .

Thom sits with Rebecca Louick to talk about navigating the emotional landscape of feelings in school.

In this episode, Thom sits with three student leaders to discuss the impact of student involvement in unifying school communities and the influence of the LifeSkills Conference throughout the process.

Chris Palochak and Patrice Reiche sit with Thom to discuss how SEL can, and should, be integrated into STEAM education.

Thom invites Dr. Krista Leh back to the podcast to discuss how school district leaders lead the process of within-district racial and socioeconomic integration. Dr. Krista Leh Owner & Director of Professional Learning Resonance Education https://www.resonanceed.com

Thom speaks with Katie McLaughlin, teacher, to discuss her process for building connections and relationships in the classroom.

Thom sits with Lisa Graham to discuss the power of literature for teaching young children about feelings, adversity, mindfulness, and a wide range of tender topics. Lisa Graham www.lgrahamauthor.com

Thom sits with Dr. Meg Givnish Brezina to discuss the health and well-being of educators and how they can begin or continue to care for themselves in today's school environment.