August 07, 2025

Change Makes or Breaks Teams - Mary Lynn Manns

22 minutes

Let's explore why great ideas often face resistance.

Bonus Tipp: Never miss a crucial test again

"If you don't manage the people, if they don't feel seen and heard, your change is constantly going to be ambushed." - Mary-Lynn Manns

In this episode, I chat with Mary Lynn Manns about the ever-tricky topic of change in tech. Mary Lynn is a consultant, pushing ideas forward despite resistance. We explore why good ideas alone often aren't enough and why change can falter when we rely solely on logic and ignore emotions. We discuss how to effectively engage skeptics and build emotional connections that go beyond simple presentations. Mary Lynn shares practical techniques for leading change from any role, aiming to minimize resistance and maximize impact.

Mary Lynn Manns is an independent consultant based in Asheville, NC. Her background includes university teaching and she is now a Professor Emerita at the University of North Carolina Asheville. She has done numerous presentations and workshops on the topic of change at conferences and in organizations that include Microsoft, amazon.com, Procter & Gamble, Apple, and Avon.

Highlights:

Change requires emotional engagement, not just logic.

Resistance can be minimized by involving skeptics early.

Building trust is key to successful change.

Listening and empathy facilitate smooth transitions.

Change can be led from any role within an organization.