SEL Convergence

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.

Thom sits down with Deb Langol to talk about the practice of teaching happiness in school and how students have responded to these practices.

Thom speaks with Chiara and Brittany who are making an immediate and significant positive change in their school's culture.

Thom sits with Chris Felton to explore how to provide students with continuous opportunities for learning and achievement.

Thom and Yvonne sit down to talk about history, empowerment and understanding what children know and feel. Dr. Yvonne Kaye www.yvonnekayewisdom.com

In this episode, Bryan and Jessie McFarland share their purpose-driven productivity system, 3x5 Life, and how intentionality and purpose can foster wellness and success. Bryan & Jessie McFarland 3x5 Life www.3x5life.com Contact

Julia Skolnik is fireside once again to speak with Thom about the essential components of learning and leadership. Julia Skolnik https://www.learningpartnerships.org/

So many guests! This time around Thom gets a chance to talk to a school team that is making SEL work in the real world!