Change is inevitable, especially in leadership. But how we lead through change determines whether our teams grow stronger or fall apart in the process.

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Christina sits down with Criss Moody, an Air Force officer turned small business owner and researcher, to explore what it really means to lead people, not just processes, through transition. Drawing from her master’s research on leadership and change management, Criss shares her insights on what makes change succeed or fail and how leaders can balance structure with empathy.

Together, they unpack the difference between managing and leading change, the leadership styles that best support transformation, and why keeping people at the center of every decision matters more than ever.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The key differences between managing change and leading change
• What transformational and servant leadership look like in action
• How autocratic and transactional styles can serve a purpose, when used intentionally
• Why adaptability and emotional intelligence are essential leadership skills
• How leaders can balance structure, deadlines, and the human side of transition
  

Whether you’re navigating an organizational shift, a new policy, or a culture change, this episode will help you reflect on how you show up for your people through uncertainty.

Tune in next week for Part 2, where Christina and Criss dive deeper into the emotional side of change, psychological safety, empathy, and the leadership superpowers that help us build trust and resilience in our teams.

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/episode83

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.