Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Takumi Sampei, a Residence Life Coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa. In just his second year at UNI, Takumi has quickly developed a reputation for building strong relationships and creating a sense of cohesion among the student leaders he supervises.

This conversation explores what it takes to move a team beyond simply working together and toward genuinely supporting one another. Takumi shares how intentional investment in team culture, frequent communication, authenticity, and meaningful relationships can create stronger teams and help people feel valued and connected.

From navigating disagreement and communication gaps to creating space for feedback and personal growth, Takumi offers a thoughtful perspective on the role leaders play in helping teams become more cohesive. At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful idea: leaders must intentionally create the conditions where people can do their best work and become the best versions of themselves.

Key Themes

Building Team Cohesion Takumi discusses the intentional work required to move teams from simply working alongside one another to genuinely supporting one another.

Leadership Through Relationships Strong relationships and social capital create the foundation for trust, open communication, and more productive difficult conversations.

Creating Space for Connection Takumi shares how intentionally setting aside time for team-building and leadership development can strengthen culture and help leaders identify challenges before they grow.

Navigating Disagreement and Communication Gaps Effective leaders must create space for disagreement while also knowing when a decision has been made and providing clarity around what happens next.

Authentic Leadership By modeling humility, apologizing when necessary, celebrating others' successes, and showing genuine care, leaders can create environments where people feel more comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work.

What You'll Learn

• How leaders can intentionally build cohesion within teams
• Why relationships and trust make difficult conversations more productive
• How to create low-stakes opportunities for employees to share feedback
• The importance of clear, attainable, and useful communication

Memorable Takeaways

• Leaders sometimes need to be the “bumper” that keeps teams moving in the right direction.
• Team cohesion does not happen by accident; it requires intentional investment.
• When communication breaks down, leaders should ask: Is it clear? Is it attainable? Is it useful?
• Strong relationships create the social capital needed to navigate difficult conversations.

About the Guest

Takumi Sampei is a Residence Life Coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa. In his role, he works with student leaders and helps support the residential experience for students living on campus. During his time at UNI, Takumi has become known for his intentional approach to relationship-building, team development, and creating cohesive environments where student leaders can grow and succeed.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, challenges, and practical advice from UNI leaders.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Gabriel Salazar, the 2026–27 Student Body President for the Northern Iowa Student Government. A senior studying Digital Media Production and Political Communication with a minor in Legal Studies, Gabriel has been involved in student leadership throughout his educational journey and continues to serve UNI students through NISG, the Varsity Glee Club, and other campus experiences.

Gabriel shares how his own experiences shaped his passion for advocacy and representing people who may not always feel heard. From learning the power of words as a middle school student to helping fellow Panthers navigate their first experiences at UNI, Gabriel reflects on the responsibility that comes with leadership and the opportunity leaders have to influence someone else's trajectory.

Key Themes

Leadership Is About Empowering Others Gabriel believes effective leaders create opportunities for other people to step into the spotlight. Delegating isn't simply about getting work done - it's an opportunity to help others develop their own leadership skills and strengths.

Small Moments Can Change Someone's Trajectory Whether helping a nervous student navigate the Panther Pantry or encouraging a student who wasn't sure college was right for them, Gabriel has seen how seemingly small interactions can have a lasting impact. Those experiences have shaped his understanding of leadership as a responsibility to support people wherever they are.

Find Your Place and Get Involved Gabriel encourages students who want to make a difference to start by simply getting involved. His own experience joining Glee Club helped him build relationships, come out of his shell, and eventually reconnect with student leadership. He encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and find opportunities to connect with people beyond their immediate circles.

What You'll Learn

• Why leadership is about creating opportunities for others to grow
• How to know when to use your own voice and when to elevate someone else's
• Why asking for help can make leaders more effective
• How small moments of encouragement can have a lasting impact

Memorable Takeaways

• Leadership is bigger than a title - it's an opportunity to change people's lives.
• Leaders grow other leaders by giving them opportunities to shine.
• Asking for help doesn't make you a weaker leader; it reminds you that leadership is a team effort.
• You never know when a small interaction might change someone's entire trajectory.

About the Guest

Gabriel Salazar is the 2026–27 Student Body President for the Northern Iowa Student Government at the University of Northern Iowa. He is a senior studying Digital Media Production and Political Communication with a minor in Legal Studies. At UNI, he has continued that work through student government, student involvement, and mentorship, with a particular focus on representation, advocacy, connection, and helping students find their place on campus.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that explores the real experiences behind effective leadership. Each episode features conversations with faculty and staff who share the moments, challenges, and lessons that have shaped how they lead.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to help leaders at every stage of their journey grow with purpose.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Pam Kelly, Library Assistant II at the UNI Museum. Although Pam's work encompasses a wide range of museum operations, including donor records, accessions, research support, and collections management, much of her leadership impact comes through her work with student employees.

Pam has developed a reputation for creating a workplace where students feel welcomed, valued, and supported. Her approach to leadership is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: people perform at their best when they know they matter. Rather than simply supervising student employees, Pam sees her role as mentoring them, helping them build skills, gain confidence, and prepare for what comes next.

Key Themes

From Supervision to Mentorship

Pam discusses the difference between simply assigning tasks and investing in the growth and development of the people doing the work.

Creating Belonging Through Connection

A strong team culture does not happen by accident. Pam shares how intentional connection and inclusive team experiences can help people feel comfortable, valued, and part of something larger than themselves.

High Expectations and Genuine Care

Pam demonstrates that accountability and encouragement are not opposites. Leaders can hold people to high standards while simultaneously making sure they know they are believed in and supported.

What You'll Learn

• Why leaders should think of themselves as mentors - not just supervisors
• How belonging and connection influence team performance
• Why high expectations are more effective when paired with genuine belief in employees
• How to recognize progress, growth, and learning - not just final results
• How leaders can help employees understand the purpose behind their work

Memorable Takeaways

• People are more willing to invest in a team when they feel valued, respected, and included.
• High expectations and genuine care can - and should - exist together.
• Leadership is not just about getting the work done; it's about helping people become better at the work.
• Recognizing growth and progress can be just as important as celebrating the final result.
• A leader's job is not simply to manage tasks, but to help people see what they are capable of.

About the Guest

Pam Kelly serves as a Library Assistant II within the UNI Museum at the University of Northern Iowa. In addition to supporting museum operations, collections, research, and administrative processes, Pam works closely with student employees and plays an important role in their professional development.

Known for her dedication to student employees, Pam has created a team environment centered on connection, belonging, high expectations, and genuine care. Her approach demonstrates how leaders at every level can make a lasting impact by helping people feel seen, valued, and invested in the work they do.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, challenges, and practical advice from UNI leaders.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Tracy Ferguson, Campus Programs Coordinator in Student Involvement and Event Services at the University of Northern Iowa. As advisor to the Campus Activities Board (CAB), Tracy works alongside student leaders to create meaningful campus experiences while helping them develop confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging.

Drawing on years of mentoring students, Tracy explores how leadership has evolved alongside a new generation of college students. She shares what motivates today's students, why community often looks different than it did in previous generations, and how leaders can create environments where young people feel seen, valued, and empowered to contribute.

Together, they discuss the importance of adapting leadership styles without compromising expectations, meeting people where they are, and recognizing that meaningful engagement begins with authentic relationships. Whether you're leading students, supervising new professionals, or managing a multigenerational team, this conversation offers practical insights into connecting with the next generation and helping them thrive.

Key Themes

Understanding the Next Generation

Tracy discusses how Gen Z and Gen Alpha approach involvement, community, and leadership differently - and what those differences mean for today's leaders.

Building Belonging

A conversation about why students are increasingly finding connection in smaller, more intentional communities and how leaders can cultivate those spaces.

Mentorship That Matters

Insights from years of advising and mentoring students, emphasizing leadership development through encouragement, accountability, and real-world experience.

Adapting Your Leadership

Tracy explains why effective leaders remain flexible, adjusting their approach to meet the needs of different individuals while maintaining clear expectations.

What You'll Learn

• How today's students define community differently than previous generations.
• Why belonging is essential for engagement and leadership development.
• How leaders can adapt their communication and leadership style across generations.
• Practical ways to mentor and empower emerging leaders.
• Why authentic relationships are the foundation of meaningful engagement.
• How creating smaller communities can strengthen a larger organization.

Memorable Takeaways

• Leadership begins with understanding the people you're leading.
• Community isn't disappearing - it's changing.
• Great mentors develop people, not just programs.
• Flexibility and consistency can coexist in effective leadership.

About the Guest

Tracy Ferguson serves as Campus Programs Coordinator in Student Involvement and Event Services at the University of Northern Iowa, where she advises the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and mentors student leaders as they plan programs that enrich campus life. Throughout her career, Tracy has been passionate about student development, leadership education, and creating opportunities for students to build meaningful connections and lasting communities.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, challenges, and practical advice from UNI leaders.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Todd Stepsis, Head Football Coach at the University of Northern Iowa. After leading Drake University to historic success and earning Pioneer Football League Coach of the Year honors, Todd returned to UNI to lead the Panther football program with a leadership philosophy centered on culture, relationships, and intentional development.

Rather than focusing solely on wins and losses, Todd shares what it takes to build a high-performing team - whether on the football field or in the workplace. Drawing from more than two decades of coaching experience, he discusses the importance of earning trust, creating clarity, and helping individuals become the best versions of themselves. Throughout the conversation, Todd offers practical leadership lessons that apply far beyond athletics.

Key Themes

Coaching Over Managing

Todd explains why the best leaders see themselves as coaches—investing in people, challenging them to grow, and creating an environment where individuals can thrive.

Culture is Built Intentionally

Strong cultures don't happen by accident. Todd discusses how daily habits, shared expectations, and consistent leadership create teams that sustain success over time.

Leadership Through Relationships

Whether coaching athletes or leading employees, Todd emphasizes that meaningful relationships are the foundation for accountability, trust, and performance.

Intentional Improvement

Small, focused actions matter. Todd introduces the idea of "intentional reps" - being fully present and deliberate in the work that leads to long-term excellence.

What You'll Learn

• Why leadership is about developing people - not simply directing them.
• How intentional culture-building creates lasting organizational success.
• The difference between managing performance and coaching growth.
• Practical ways leaders can earn trust and strengthen relationships.
• Why consistency often matters more than motivation.

Memorable Takeaways

• Great leaders coach people before they manage performance.
• Culture is created through daily behaviors - not mission statements.
• Trust is earned through consistency and genuine investment in others.
• Leaders should strive for intentional improvement rather than simply doing more.
• The quality of your effort matters more than the quantity of your activity.

About the Guest

Todd Stepsis is the Head Football Coach at the University of Northern Iowa. Before joining UNI, he served as head coach at Drake University, where he led the Bulldogs to unprecedented success, including the program's first FCS playoff appearance and Pioneer Football League Coach of the Year honors. Across more than 25 years of coaching, Todd has built a reputation for developing strong cultures, investing in people, and leading teams with purpose.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, leadership challenges, and practical advice from faculty, staff, and campus leaders.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Tyler Hospodarsky, Assistant Director of Development for the Wilson College of Business at the University of Northern Iowa. Known for his enthusiasm, optimism, and engaging leadership style, Tyler shares why the energy leaders bring to their work has a powerful impact on team culture, relationships, and organizational success.

Together, they explore the difference between healthy optimism and toxic positivity, why emotional intelligence requires embracing the full range of human emotions, and how leaders can create environments where people feel encouraged without ignoring difficult realities. Tyler also reflects on the importance of authenticity, self-awareness, and intentionality in shaping workplace culture, reminding listeners that positivity isn't about pretending everything is fine - it's about helping others move forward with hope.

Whether you're leading a team, collaborating with colleagues, or simply looking to become a more encouraging presence in your workplace, this conversation offers practical insights into leading with energy, empathy, and purpose.

Key Themes

The Power of Positive Energy

Tyler explains how a leader's attitude influences team culture and why enthusiasm is often contagious.

Optimism Without Toxic Positivity

A conversation about balancing encouragement with honesty and creating space for difficult emotions while maintaining hope.

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

Insights into recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions - both your own and those of the people around you.

Authentic Leadership

Tyler shares why genuine enthusiasm is more impactful than forced positivity and how authenticity builds stronger relationships.

Influencing Culture Every Day

Practical ideas for creating a workplace where people feel energized, supported, and motivated to do their best work.

What You'll Learn

• Why the energy you bring influences the people around you.
• How to distinguish healthy optimism from toxic positivity.
• Why emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership.
• Practical ways to encourage others without dismissing difficult challenges.
• How authenticity strengthens relationships and workplace culture.
• Why small, everyday interactions have a lasting leadership impact.

Memorable Takeaways

• Leaders set the emotional tone for their teams.
• Optimism acknowledges reality while believing things can improve.
• Every emotion has value - even the uncomfortable ones.
• Authenticity is more powerful than forced positivity.
• Encouragement is most meaningful when it's grounded in empathy.
• The energy you bring today shapes the culture you build tomorrow.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, challenges, and practical advice from UNI leaders.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Chiquita Loveless, Assistant Dean of Students for Family & Military Programming at the University of Northern Iowa. After serving 23 years in the United States Navy before transitioning to higher education, Chiquita brings a leadership perspective grounded in service, accountability, mentorship, and genuine care for others.

This conversation explores the critical distinction between being a manager and being a leader. Drawing from experiences aboard naval ships and now supporting military-connected students at UNI, Chiquita shares why leadership isn't about authority - it's about preparing people to succeed, earning trust through consistency, and investing in others long after they've left your team.

From stories of learning difficult leadership lessons in the military to reflecting on the family members who shaped her values, Chiquita offers practical wisdom for leaders who want to build stronger teams and create lasting impact.

Key Themes

Leadership vs. Management

Why leadership extends beyond assigning tasks and managing operations—and instead focuses on developing people, creating purpose, and earning followership.

Service Before Self

How military leadership emphasizes serving the mission while never losing sight of the people carrying it out.

Mentorship Creates Leaders

The importance of intentionally developing future leaders and "reaching back" to help others grow.

Character and Integrity

Why credibility, humility, and consistency matter far more than position or title.

What You'll Learn

• The practical differences between managing people and leading them
• Why accountability and compassion can - and should - coexist
• How mentorship accelerates leadership development
• The role humility plays in becoming an influential leader
• Lessons from military leadership that apply in any workplace

Memorable Takeaways

• Leadership is measured by the people you develop - not the title you hold.
• Your reputation and integrity follow you everywhere.
• Great leaders prepare others for success beyond today's mission.
• The strongest teams are built through mentorship, accountability, and trust.
• Leadership means lifting others as you climb.

About the Guest

Chiquita Loveless serves as the Assistant Dean of Students for Family & Military Programming at the University of Northern Iowa. A retired U.S. Navy veteran with 23 years of military service, she now leads initiatives supporting military-connected students, veterans, and their families as they transition to college and civilian life. Throughout her career, Chiquita has remained committed to developing people, fostering belonging, and demonstrating that the best leaders combine accountability with genuine care for those they serve.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that features authentic conversations with leaders from across campus. Each episode explores defining leadership moments, practical strategies, and lessons that help listeners become more effective leaders in higher education and beyond.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to inspire leadership growth at every stage of your career.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Danielle McGeough, faculty member in the Department of Communication and Media at the University of Northern Iowa. As a communication scholar, artistic director of the Interpreters Theatre, and researcher focused on storytelling, identity, and social change, Danielle explores how the stories we tell ourselves - and others - shape the way we lead.

Rather than treating storytelling as a communication tactic, Danielle reframes it as a leadership practice. Together, Jesse and Danielle discuss how our personal narratives influence confidence, decision-making, relationships, and organizational culture. They explore why authentic leaders continually rewrite the stories they tell themselves, how reflection creates agency, and why meaningful leadership begins with understanding your own identity before trying to influence others.

Follow Danielle’s work online at Plan Goal Plan.

Key Themes

Storytelling as a Leadership Tool

Leadership isn't just about communicating information - it's about inviting people into a shared story that gives meaning to the work they do.

Identity Shapes Leadership

The stories we tell ourselves influence how we show up, whether we're leading from confidence and connection or from a need to prove ourselves.

Authenticity Over Perfection

Danielle reflects on embracing the qualities she once viewed as weaknesses and explains how authenticity became one of her greatest leadership strengths.

Creating Meaning Every Day

Leadership isn't built through occasional big moments - it develops through intentional daily choices that align with the future we want to create.

What You'll Learn

• How your self-narrative influences your leadership style
• Why reflection is one of the most powerful leadership habits
• Practical ways to prepare yourself before difficult conversations
• How storytelling creates stronger organizational cultures
• Why leaders should communicate with their audience's needs - not their own - in mind
• How small, intentional actions compound into lasting leadership growth

Memorable Takeaways

• Everyone has a story worth telling - and a future story they're still writing.
• Great leaders don't lead from a place of proving themselves; they lead from belonging.
• Reflection creates clarity, and clarity creates better leadership.
• The stories leaders tell should help others see themselves in the mission.
• Organizations build culture one conversation - and one story - at a time.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode features meaningful conversations with faculty and staff who share practical leadership lessons, defining moments, and strategies that listeners can apply in their own work.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework for continuous leadership growth at every stage of your career.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Lane Kruger, a student who graduated in spring 2026 at the University of Northern Iowa. Throughout his time at UNI, Lane has helped students discover their potential by creating opportunities for involvement, leadership, and personal growth.

This conversation explores how great leaders create impact - not through titles or recognition, but by investing in people and leaving organizations stronger than they found them. Lane shares lessons from his leadership journey, discusses why saying "yes" to opportunities impacted his time as a student, and explains how intentional relationships, curiosity, and continuous improvement shape effective leaders.

Whether you're leading a department, a student organization, or your first team, this episode offers practical insights into building influence through service and helping others succeed.

Key Themes

Leadership Through Impact

Leadership isn't measured by position - it's measured by the positive impact you leave on people and organizations.

Embracing Opportunity

Career growth often comes from saying "yes" to opportunities before you feel completely ready.

Continuous Improvement

Great leaders focus less on preserving their own legacy and more on creating systems that allow future leaders to build something even better.

Relationships First

Meaningful leadership begins with authentic relationships and a genuine investment in helping others grow.

What You'll Learn

• Why impact is a better measure of leadership than authority.
• How embracing unexpected opportunities accelerates personal and professional growth.
• Practical ways to develop emerging leaders through trust and empowerment.
• Why curiosity and adaptability are essential leadership skills.
• How to create a culture of continuous improvement that outlasts any one leader.

Memorable Takeaways

• Leadership is about creating opportunities for others - not yourself.
• Your greatest legacy is preparing the next leader to succeed.
• Growth happens when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone.
• Small investments in people can create lasting ripple effects.
• The goal isn't to be remembered - it's to leave the organization stronger than when you arrived.

About the Guest

Lane Kruger is a former student from the University of Northern Iowa who graduated in Spring 2026. Lane helps others develop leadership skills, build meaningful campus connections, and engage in experiences that prepare them for success beyond graduation. Passionate about storytelling, creativity, and student development, Lane is dedicated to helping others recognize their potential and create lasting impact wherever they lead.

Follow Lane’s work online at Kruger Co. Productions.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, leadership challenges, and practical strategies from leaders across higher education.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every level.

Episode Overview

In this episode of LEAD UNI, host Jesse Heath sits down with Anya Lovstuen, a recent University of Northern Iowa graduate whose leadership journey illustrates how small opportunities, meaningful relationships, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone can shape both personal and professional growth.

Throughout her time at UNI, Anya immersed herself in leadership experiences ranging from Cat Crew and student employment to mentoring fellow students. Rather than focusing on titles or authority, she shares why leadership is rooted in service, consistency, and helping others recognize their own potential.

This conversation explores how confidence develops through experience, why mentorship matters, and how creating welcoming environments encourages others to become leaders themselves. Anya also reflects on the importance of taking initiative, embracing discomfort, and leaving organizations stronger than you found them.

Key Themes

Leadership Through Service

Leadership isn't about having a title - it's about showing up for others, supporting your peers, and creating opportunities for those around you to succeed.

Confidence Through Experience

Growth comes from saying yes to opportunities, learning through challenges, and recognizing that confidence is built over time rather than possessed from the beginning.

The Power of Mentorship

Every leader benefits from someone who believes in them. Anya reflects on the mentors who invested in her and why paying that investment forward matters.

Creating Lasting Impact

Strong organizations develop future leaders by building systems, traditions, and cultures that continue long after individual leaders move on.

What You'll Learn

• Why leadership begins long before receiving a formal title.
• How stepping outside your comfort zone accelerates personal growth.
• The role mentorship plays in developing confident leaders.
• Practical ways to create belonging and engagement within teams.
• Why leadership is measured by the people you help develop.

Memorable Takeaways

• Great leaders create opportunities for others before they create opportunities for themselves.
• Confidence is built through action - not before it.
• Every interaction is an opportunity to make someone feel they belong.
• The strongest leaders invest in people who will eventually replace them.

About the Guest

Anya Lovstuen recently graduated from the University of Northern Iowa after building an impressive record of student leadership across campus. Through roles in Cat Crew, student employment, and numerous campus initiatives, she developed a passion for mentoring others, creating welcoming environments, and helping fellow students discover their own leadership potential. Her perspective demonstrates that leadership isn't reserved for those with formal authority - it's cultivated through relationships, service, and a commitment to helping others grow.

About LEAD UNI

LEAD UNI is a leadership podcast from the University of Northern Iowa that highlights real leadership experiences from across campus. Each episode explores defining moments, challenges, and practical advice from UNI leaders, faculty, staff, students, and alumni.

LEAD stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Develop - a framework designed to support leadership growth at every stage of your career.