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