In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Christina and guest Criss Moody continue exploring what it means to lead people, not just processes, through change.

Picking up where Part 1 left off, this episode dives deeper into the human side of leadership: how emotions, empathy, and psychological safety influence whether change succeeds or falls apart.

Criss shares insights from her research on the Bridges Transition Model and Kotter’s Leading Change, emphasizing that transformation isn’t just about strategy or structure, it’s about connection. When leaders take time to earn trust, validate emotions, and communicate the “why” behind every shift, they cultivate lasting buy-in and resilience across their teams.

We unpack what it looks like to navigate resistance, build environments where people feel safe to speak up, and use empathy as a leadership superpower, not a weakness.

In this episode:

• Why psychological safety is the foundation for effective change
• How empathy strengthens communication and trust
• The difference between addressing emotions and being ruled by them
• The unique challenges military leaders face when leading change
• How to leverage emotional intelligence and structure together for lasting impact

Criss also shares how women can embrace their natural strengths, empathy, collaboration, and emotional awareness, as superpowers that elevate modern leadership.

Whether you’re leading through policy shifts, organizational restructuring, or culture change, this episode will remind you that the most effective leadership begins with heart.

RESOURCES:

Kotter, J. P. (2012). Leading Change. Harvard Business Review Press.

Bridges, W., & Bridges, S. (2016). Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change

(4th ed.). Da Capo Lifelong Books.

Criss Moody Research Paper:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b-tAmIMdUaU8g9v_FZT310Eoh4drDVlL/view?usp=sharing

Join the Strong and Resilient Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/336774597179247

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode84

Connect with me in the Strong and Resilient Woman Community on Facebook HERE (https://www.facebook.com/groups/yogaformilitarywomen), or on Instagram @themilitaryyogi

More about Christina Mattison and the Leading with Heart Podcast
Hey there! I'm Christina Mattison, an Air Force Officer, yoga teacher, dedicated wife, and proud mother of two. But most importantly, I'm here as a wellness and leadership coach for women in the military. I want you to know something: It doesn't have to be this way.

I've walked in your combat boots, and I understand the chaos that often accompanies military life. But I'm here to share a powerful truth with you: You have the innate ability to transform your own life. I've personally experienced this transformation, and I've witnessed it in the lives of countless clients I've had the privilege to guide.

Welcome to the Leading With Heart podcast your ultimate resource for discovering how to infuse joy, peace, and true success into every facet of military life.

**The views and opinions expressed within this podcast episode are those of the individual, and do not necessarily represent those of the Department of Defense or its components.