Bridging the Gap
Where Research Meets Practice in Education
Bridging the Gap delivers bite-sized episodes that translate cutting-edge academic research into practical insights for educational leaders. Each episode breaks down complex studies into clear, actionable takeaways to support informed decision-making in schools and districts. Each episode shares practical wisdom and resources for today's educational leader in about 10 minutes.
Episodes will be released on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and every other Friday starting September 2, 2025.
In addition to the Bridging the Gap podcast, we offer two recurring segments to further support educational leaders:
- A Rural Perspective – Released every Wednesday, this segment is hosted by former superintendent Amanda Schmidt. Amanda explores issues unique to rural education through interviews and research reviews tailored specifically to the rural context.
- Leadership Book Reviews – Every other Friday, we share concise reviews of current leadership books, offering insights and key takeaways to help guide your professional growth and that of your team.
Current Episodes
Introduction
Welcome to the premiere episode of Bridging the Gap, an Institute for Educational Leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa, hosted by Dr. Mary Sult. In this introductory episode, Dr. Sult shares the vision behind the podcast: connecting the world of academic research with the daily work of educational leaders.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Dr. Sult understands the challenges leaders face in accessing and applying research while managing the demands of their roles. This episode sets the stage for what listeners can expect from future conversations—clear, practical, and relevant insights that support evidence-informed decision making in schools.
Whether you’re a principal, superintendent, instructional coach, or future leader, Bridging the Gap is your space to learn, reflect, and grow—without paywalls or academic jargon.
Episode 1: Ethical Decision-Making
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Maureen Spelman from North Central College to explore her insightful model for ethical decision making. Drawing on years of academic research and real-world experience, Dr. Spelman presents a reflective framework designed to guide individuals through complex moral choices with clarity and integrity. Whether you're an educator, leader, or simply someone seeking to make more thoughtful decisions, this conversation offers practical tools and deep wisdom. Tune in as we unpack the steps of her model, discuss its applications, and learn how intentional reflection can lead to more ethical outcomes.
Episode 2: New Teacher Perspective: What Supports Do You Need From Your Admin?
Meet Megan, a new kindergarten teacher with the Lisbon Community School District and a recent graduate from the University of Northern Iowa. As she steps into her very first classroom this fall, Megan shares her excitement, hopes, and honest reflections about starting her journey as an inspiring educator. In this podcast, she opens up about the challenges and joys of being a new teacher and the importance of having strong support from administrators and mentors along the way. Whether you’re a future teacher, current educator, or school leader, Megan’s story offers a fresh perspective on what it takes to thrive as she prepares for her first year of teaching.
Episode 3 Book Review: The Four Disciplines of Execution
In this episode, Amanda Schmidt offers a concise and insightful review of The Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Jim Huling, and Sean Covey, tailored specifically for educational leaders. Drawing from her experience in school leadership, Amanda breaks down the core concepts of the book—focus, leverage, engagement, and accountability—and explains how these powerful principles can be applied within schools to drive meaningful results. Whether you're looking to sharpen your strategic implementation or create a culture of execution in your district or building, Amanda’s review provides practical takeaways that will resonate with educators at every level.
Episode 4: Standards-Based Grading Steps 1 & 2
In this episode of Bridging the Gap, we sit down with Dr. Matt Townsley—known to many as the “Sportscaster of Standards-Based Grading”—to explore the first two foundational steps in implementing Standards-Based Grading (SBG). Drawing from his experience as a school leader, author, and assistant professor, Dr. Townsley shares practical insights that help demystify the early stages of SBG and offer a clear path forward for schools ready to make grading more meaningful. Whether you're just beginning or refining your approach, this episode offers the guidance needed to lead with clarity and confidence.
Articles and Resources Mentioned: (coming soon!)
Episode 5: Guided to the Classroom
Join Jenny, a passionate advisor in the College of Education at the University of Northern Iowa, as she shares her journey of guiding future educators. With a deep commitment to helping students achieve their goals, Jenny focuses on empowering aspiring teachers, especially those who dream of returning to their rural communities to inspire the next generation. This podcast offers meaningful conversations for anyone on the path to becoming a teacher or anyone who knows of someone who would make a wonderful teacher. Jenny Connolly is the Director of Advising, COE Advising and Teacher Education Success. She is a third generation Panther. Jenny received her BA in History Education along with her MA in Post-Secondary Education: Student Affairs from UNI.
