Q-ed Up Podcast

Q-ed Up Podcast

By Tracy LynnSociety & CultureScienceSocial SciencesEducationPhilosophy
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Q-ed Up Podcast episodes

  • EP 21: Q-Ed Up Highlights | Leadership Lessons That Last
    This special edition of Q-Ed Up brings together some of the most impactful moments from previous conversations with education leaders, school administrators, and passionate advocates who are shaping the future of education.
    Across these highlights, you'll hear powerful stories about leading with grace during difficult conversations, building trust with families, investing in lifelong learning, creating classrooms where students truly matter, and reimagining what great teaching looks like today.
    Whether you're discovering Q-Ed Up for the first time or revisiting some of our favorite conversations, these moments capture what the show is all about: amplifying the science, soul, and stories that shape education.
    Featured themes include:
    - Leading difficult conversations with empathy and trust
    - The power of lifelong learning
    - Creating classrooms built on belonging and joy
    - Why relationships remain the foundation of great schools
    - Lessons from educators making a lasting impact
    If these conversations resonate with you, explore the full Q-Ed Up library for in depth interviews with the educators and leaders featured throughout this compilation. Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    18 min
  • EP 20: Supporting Educators Behind the Scenes with Dr. Deanna Goodrich
    How do schools continue supporting students when specialized educators are in short supply?
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, Tracy Lynn sits down with Deanna Goodrich, Director of Program Services at Sonya Biggs Educational Services, to discuss the realities of supporting students with visual impairments, building partnerships with school districts, and navigating educator shortages across multiple states.
    Drawing from her experience as a teacher, administrator, and educational leader, Brittney shares how understanding the perspectives of educators, principals, and district leaders helps create stronger support systems for students. She also discusses the growing demand for specialized services, the importance of consistency and communication, and why collaboration remains essential as schools face ongoing staffing challenges.
    In this episode:
    • How educational leadership experience helps build stronger partnerships between schools, educators, and service providers
    • What schools can do to navigate staffing shortages while ensuring students continue receiving the support they need
    • Why collaboration, consistency, and relationship building are critical to supporting educators and students alike
    About the Guest
    Deanna Goodrich is the Director of Program Services at Sonya Biggs Educational Services, where she oversees educational contracts, supports specialized service providers, and partners with school districts across the country. With experience as a teacher, administrator, and educational leader, Deanna is passionate about helping schools create meaningful access and support for students with diverse learning needs.
    About the Host
    Tracy Lynn is the host of Q-Ed Up and Vice President of Growth and Educational Solutions at Quantum Education Professionals. With a background in special education and educational leadership, Tracy is passionate about supporting schools, elevating educator voices, and creating conversations that blend the science, soul, and story shaping education.
    Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    8 min
  • EP 19: Building Success Beyond Blindness with Dr. Sonja Biggs
    What makes a strong leader in special education?
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, Tracy Lynn chats with Dr. Mary Lynn Boscardin to explore leadership, innovation, evidence-based practices, and how educators can turn research into real-world impact.
    Beginning her career as a speech pathologist, Dr. Boscardin shares how science, service, and leadership shaped her path. She also discusses the evolution of special education, why connection matters for new leaders, and how schools can focus less on checklists and more on student outcomes.
    In this episode:
    • How speech pathology shaped a leadership journey
    • What special education looked like decades ago
    • Why evidence-based practices matter more than ever
    • How leadership can support innovation in schools
    • Why compliance should not replace student outcomes
    Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    13 min
  • EP 18: Building Confidence Through Strengths with Sam Mitchell
    What happens when educators focus on a student's strengths instead of their struggles?
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, Tracy Lynn sits down with Sam Mitchell, Executive Director of Autism Rocks and Rolls, to discuss his journey as an individual with autism, podcast host, speaker, and advocate. Through his work, Sam is helping others better understand autism while encouraging educators to recognize the unique strengths and interests of every student.
    Sam shares his experiences navigating school, overcoming exclusion, learning to advocate for himself, and building a nonprofit organization that supports autism awareness and acceptance. He also explains why student interests can be one of the most powerful tools educators have for engagement, learning, and long-term success.
    In this episode:
    • Why educators should focus on student strengths and interests to increase engagement and learning
    • How self advocacy, resilience, and supportive relationships helped shape Sam's journey
    • What schools can do to create more inclusive environments where every student feels seen, valued, and supported
    About the Guest
    Sam Mitchell is the Executive Director of Autism Rocks and Rolls, a nonprofit organization and podcast dedicated to increasing autism awareness and helping others understand life on the spectrum. Through speaking engagements, community events, and his podcast, Sam shares his experiences and advocates for greater inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for individuals with autism.
    About the Host
    Tracy Lynn is the host of Q-Ed Up and Vice President of Growth and Educational Solutions at Quantum Education Professionals. With a background in special education and educational leadership, Tracy is passionate about supporting schools, elevating educator voices, and creating conversations that blend the science, soul, and story shaping education.
    Please like, subscribe and follow us to stay Q-Ed Up on the conversation! Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    12 min
  • EP 17: How Great Leaders Listen with Mary Lynn Boscardin
    What makes a strong leader in special education?
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, Tracy Lynn chats with Dr. Mary Lynn Boscardin to explore leadership, innovation, evidence-based practices, and how educators can turn research into real-world impact.
    Beginning her career as a speech pathologist, Dr. Boscardin shares how science, service, and leadership shaped her path. She also discusses the evolution of special education, why connection matters for new leaders, and how schools can focus less on checklists and more on student outcomes.
    This is Q-Ed Up, where we amplify the voices of educators with the science, soul, and story shaping education.
    In this episode:
    • How speech pathology shaped a leadership journey
    • What special education looked like decades ago
    • Why evidence-based practices matter more than ever
    • How leadership can support innovation in schools
    • Why compliance should not replace student outcomes
    • Advice for new special education leaders
    • The power of listening and connecting people
    • Turning research into practical strategies for educators
    • Why conferences and collaboration still matter
    • How passion sustains a lifelong career in education
    Please like, subscribe and follow us to stay Q-Ed Up on the conversation!
    About the Guest
    Dr. Mary Lynn Boscardin is a respected leader in special education, higher education, and professional development with decades of experience supporting educators and advancing the field.
    About the Host
    Tracy Lynn is the host of Q-Ed Up and Vice President of Growth and Educational Solutions at Quantum Education Professionals. With a background in special education and educational leadership, Tracy is passionate about supporting schools, elevating educator voices, and creating conversations that blend the science, soul, and story shaping education. Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    22 min
  • EP 16: The Truth About Inclusion with Dr. Frances Stetson
    What if the real opposite of inclusion is exclusion?
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, Tracy Lynn talks with Dr. Francis Stetson, a longtime leader in special education and inclusive practices, to explore how schools can move beyond labels, outdated systems, and limiting beliefs.
    Dr. Stetson shares stories from the early days of special education reform, what has changed over the last 50 years, and why the future of education depends on individualized support, shared ownership, and creating schools where every student belongs.
    In this episode:
    • Why inclusion is really about ending exclusion
    • How mindset shapes student opportunity
    • The importance of individualized education plans
    • Why leadership matters in systems change
    • What schools still get wrong about disability
    • How expectations impact student outcomes
    • Why supports need an exit strategy
    • What progress in special education really looks like
    • Lessons from the past 50 years of education reform
    • What the future of inclusive schools could become
    About the Guest
    Dr. Francis Stetson is a nationally respected voice in inclusion, special education systems change, and educational leadership with decades of experience at the classroom, state, and national levels.
    About the Host
    Tracy Lynn is the host of Q-Ed Up and Vice President of Growth and Educational Solutions at Quantum Education Professionals. With a background in special education and educational leadership, Tracy is passionate about supporting schools, elevating educator voices, and creating conversations that blend the science, soul, and story shaping education.
    Subscribe for more conversations with educators, leaders, and experts shaping what comes next.
    Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    25 min
  • EP 15: Avoid Special Ed Mistakes with Julie Weatherly

    About the Guest

    Julie Weatherly is a nationally recognized attorney focused on special education law, educator training, and supporting school systems through evolving legal challenges.

    About the Host

    Tracy Lynn is the host of Q-Ed Up and Vice President of Growth and Educational Solutions at Quantum Education Professionals. With a background in special education and educational leadership, Tracy is passionate about supporting schools, elevating educator voices, and creating conversations that blend the science, soul, and story shaping education.

     

    Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education Professionals.

    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.

    Be sure to like and subscribe.

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5

    Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996

    31 min
  • EP 14: 50 Years in Special Education with Dr. Luann Purcell
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, host Tracy Lynn sits down with Dr. Luann Purcell, Executive Director of the International Council of Administrators of Special Education at CASE, to talk about a career that spans more than five decades in education and special education.
    From starting in the classroom at just 19 years old to helping shape systems and support structures at the district level, Dr. Purcell shares what she has learned about students, teaching, and the role educators play in shaping outcomes.
    This conversation reflects on how far special education has come, what has changed, and what still matters in supporting students and families.
    This episode covers:
    + How one teacher adapted instruction before special education was formalized
    + What changed after legislation brought structure to special education
    + Why collaboration between educators and families matters more than ever
    + The reality of what families experience outside the classroom
    + How instructional practices can impact student behavior and success
    + The importance of professional community and connection for educators
    + What new teachers should know as they begin their careers
    Listen in for a thoughtful look at how education continues to evolve through experience, reflection, and connection.
    Please like, subscribe and follow us to stay Q-Ed Up on the conversation! Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    32 min
  • EP 13: Finding Your Path in Education with Dr. Jarius Jones
    In this episode of Q-Ed Up, we sit down with Dr. Jarius Jones, Associate Superintendent of Human Resources in Kansas City, Kansas, to talk about the mentors and mindset that shape a career in education.
    From a pivotal experience in middle school math to leading at the district level, Dr. Jones shares how belief, opportunity, and perseverance can influence not only a career path but the lives of others along the way.
    This episode explores:
    + The moment that shifted Dr. Jones’ path into education
    + How belief and opportunity can change a student’s trajectory
    + The role experience plays in shaping leadership in schools
    + What aspiring educators may consider before entering the field
    + How districts can support and inspire future educators
    If you’ve ever thought about working in education or wondered what draws people to this work, this episode is for you! Dr. Jones offers a perspective from someone who has experienced the education industry at every level.
    Listen in and stay Q-Ed Up for what’s next. Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    27 min
  • EP 12: Special Education Challenges and Solutions with Michele Tolson
    Host Tracy Lynn welcomes Michele Tolson, Assistant Director of Secondary Special Education for Kansas City Public Schools, to discuss leading districtwide special education with an equity lens. Michele shares how growing up as one of the few Black students shaped her commitment to representation, inclusion, and making students feel capable and welcomed. She explains her responsibilities overseeing services, staffing allocation, IDEA/IEP compliance, parent concerns, homebound and privately placed students, while navigating a severe national special education staffing shortage.
    Other topics they discuss include: how charter school dynamics can concentrate higher-need students in the district, the impact of year-round transfers, and strategies such as contract practitioners, expanding paraprofessional capacity, and using retired educators for classroom support and IEP writing.
    Please like, subscribe, and follow to stay Q-Ed Up for more insights. Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this
    show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging
    into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in education through
    science, soul, and stories. Sponsored by Quantum Education
    Professionals.
    Quantum Education Professionals connects schools with the specialized
    staff they need, from nurses and therapists to special education and
    STEM teachers. With over 20 years of experience, our Q360 Workforce
    Solutions make staffing simple, freeing administrators to focus on
    students while we provide the right professionals to support learning.
    Be sure to like and subscribe.
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Q-edUp
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pJzMXRQ2EXTQKYN2RCgw5
    Apple Podcasts:
    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/q-ed-up/id1835570996
    38 min

About Q-ed Up Podcast

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Q-Ed Up amplifies the voices of educators. Hosted by Tracy Lynn, this show shares real stories from teachers, leaders, and innovators—digging into what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s next in…