Episode 0: Introduction to Bridging the Gap

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.