Leading With Heart

Do you know what being an empathetic leader truly looks like? Today on the podcast I am joined by the incredible Col (Ret) Dede Halfhill for a raw and real conversation about it. Dede Halfhill was featured in Brené Brown’s book  "Dare to Lead." We are diving into Dede’s experiences that had Brené Brown writing about her and chatting more about the power of vulnerability, empathy, and the critical role of open conversations in building trust and connection.

Col Halfhill shares her journey from her experiences at the Pentagon to her current coaching practice, highlighting the evolving approach to emotional intelligence and vulnerability in military leadership. A significant turning point came from her personal revelation through a Leadership Circle profile assessment, emphasizing the importance of listening, understanding others' emotional needs, and the necessity of psychological safety and feedback in leadership development.

The conversation also tackles the challenges of balancing productivity with self-worth, the societal pressures of exhaustion as a status symbol, and the importance of self-awareness. Through personal stories and professional insights, this episode offers valuable lessons on the continuous inner work required to lead with heart, the significance of community support, and the power of inclusive dialogue to foster understanding and growth.

Join us for this compelling discussion that not only sheds light on the nuances of military leadership but also provides universal insights into the essence of leading with empathy and authenticity.

RESOURCES:

Col (Ret) Dede Halfhill:

dedehalfhill.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dedehalfhill/

https://www.instagram.com/dedehalfhill/

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode38

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.

Today on  "Leading with Heart," I am joined by Lindsey Moser, a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve, for a deep dive into the essence of spiritual wellness and its impact on military life. Lindsey shares her remarkable journey from her upbringing on Whidbey Island Naval Air Station to her aspirations of becoming a licensed sex therapist specializing in postpartum families. With a rich background in education, Reserve service, and international travels, Lindsey brings a unique perspective on the importance of spiritual health.

Throughout the conversation, we explore the universal message of inherent worth and love emphasized by world religions, the significance of self-care, and the role of compassionate leadership in changing the narrative around wellness in the military.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Lindsey:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseymoser123/

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode37

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.

Discussing boundaries can be challenging, yet it is crucial for our mental well-being and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. Paradoxically, those who stand to gain the most from establishing boundaries are often those who struggle the most to communicate these limits.

In this episode of "Leading with Heart," I sit down with Sharon Arana, a mother, wife, and seasoned Air Force major. Sharon opens up about her unique journey as a woman, a single parent, and a first-generation Latina in the military. We are talking about the crucial role of setting healthy boundaries for work-life integration, self-care, and burnout prevention, particularly in high-stress environments like the military.

Sharon also advocates for equitable military policies and offers practical advice on introspection, mentorship, and valuable resources for boundary setting, including Melissa Urban's "The Book of Boundaries." This episode is full of wisdom for anyone looking to understand and improve their boundary-setting skills in both personal and professional life.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Sharon:

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode36

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.

Life goes in seasons, and so does your fitness! Today I am chatting with health and fitness coach and Air Force veteran Brittinie Wick.

Her expertise has garnered recognition in esteemed publications, including STRONG Fitness Magazine, Nutrishop, Personal Fitness Professional, Best Holistic Life Magazine, and various others.  As a veteran, Brittinie also recognized the need to support fellow female veterans and service members. She has launched a “Women Serve Too” brand and podcast that dives into the experiences of women in the military, addresses the issues we face, explores the dynamic world of women veteran business owners, and shares powerful personal stories.

Today Brittinie is opening up about her own personal fitness journey and is sharing tips on how to maintain consistency in fitness and wellness routines. It is so important to tune in to where you are at in life, and what your body needs, so that you can adapt your routines to fit your current lifestyle, career demands, and goals. New to fitness, or getting back into it after a life change? Start small and gradually build up your fitness routines, incorporating small amounts of activity into daily life.  For more fitness inspiration and advice, you can find Brittnie on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Tune in for an episode packed with insightful advice on fitness, health, and wellness.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Brittinie:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BrittinieWick_Fitness

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brittiniewickfitness/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittiniewick/

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode35

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.

Get ready for an inspiring journey on the latest episode of "Leading with Heart Podcast" as I sit down with Amber Shook. Amber is a cross-industry, multi-domain cybersecurity leader, advocate, and mentor with 20+ years of experience developing and leading diverse, high-performing, cohesive teams. Amber is currently serving as an Executive Director of Product Security at J.P. Morgan Chase, and she is also a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve supporting space operations planning at 16th Air Force in San Antonio, Texas. Amber is also a devoted mother, a diversity and inclusion advocate, and a beacon of inspiration as she navigates personal growth and healing.

In this episode we're going to dive into a conversation that's all about love—not just the romantic kind but the profound love for oneself and the journey of personal transformation. Amber will share with us how she reshaped her world through a powerful identity statement, how she’s embraced her imperfections to show up for her children, and the continuous effort to align her actions with her core values. Amber's approach to her personal journey involving small, consistent actions that aligned with her identity statement and personal values. We also discuss the transformative impact of self-investment and the damaging effects of self-limiting beliefs.

No matter where you stand in your own journey, today's episode is a gentle reminder of the impact self-investment and showing up for yourself can have on your life. You'll hear how even amid challenges like divorce, juggling responsibilities, and confronting self-limiting beliefs, there's an opportunity for immense personal development.

So, if you're ready to invest in yourself, to understand the power of a growth mindset, and to join a community that values the leadership of one's own life, then this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Get a sneak peek into Christina's upcoming "Lead Your Life" program, set to launch in April 2024.

RESOURCES:

Lead Your Life Program: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

Lead Your Life PDF

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode34

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.

In this episode of the Leading with Heart podcast, we're taking on the four mindset traps that might be cramping your style on the journey to success. Join us as we navigate through the all-or-nothing mindset, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the comparison trap.

Everyone, from busy moms to high achievers, gets caught in mental snares that hold us back from our true potential. Together, we'll work through the secrets behind these common pitfalls and discover powerful strategies to break free. Strategies such as embracing 1% progress, setting realistic expectations, and naming your inner gremlin can help you untangle yourself from these sneaky mindset traps. 

Want more information about my Lead Your Life program? Cohort 6 is open for enrollment! Check out more info here: 

https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode33

RESOURCES:

Learn more about the Lead Your Life Program: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

Lead Your Life PDF

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.

Ever find yourself lost in the whirlwind of life, unsure where you're headed? Today, I've got a story to share with you – meet Erica Carroll, an Air Force servicewoman who decided it was NEVER too late to find herself and a renewed sense of purpose.

Erica navigated a lot of changes in her military career. Through a long military career, multiple moves, multiple assignments, becoming a mom, and lots of “life stuff” - Erica lost herself and felt an incongruence between her inner and outer worlds.

Erica joined my Lead Your Life program in 2023, and it was the catalyst she needed to discover her values and step into the shining light of the woman she is called to be. In this podcast episode, Erica shares how this program became her compass, guiding her on her journey home to herself. Listen in as Erica dives into her transformation, highlighting the program's magic in overcoming her intense inner critic, boosting her self-confidence and self-trust, and finding alignment between her life and her values.

If you feel lost, at the mercy of your inner critic, plagued by self-doubt, or deeply desire to find your way back to YOU, this episode is for you!

RESOURCES:

Lead Your Life Program: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

Lead Your Life  Info Packet

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode32

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.

Are you “playing the game”, chasing someone else's definition of success? Welcome to another episode of the Leading with Heart Podcast! In this episode, I am sharing my transformative journey from feeling lost and at the mercy of the military to discovering the power of self-leadership. Drawing from my military experience, I reflect on the burnout and disconnection that arose from chasing others' definitions of success. My post-military identity crisis led to the creation of the Lead Your Life, a coaching methodology designed to empower women, especially those in military leadership, to lead intentional, connected, and fulfilling lives.

The process consists of five phases, focusing on identifying goals and setting up your systems, building your self-awareness and understanding of your inner operating system, breaking down the mindset barriers that are keeping you trapped, nourishing your 4 wellness domains, and healing your relationship with YOU. We’ll chat about the importance of community support and coaching support on your journey. If you are ready to dig deep and “Do the Work” in order to become the Leader of your Life, then buckle up and press play!

Want more information about my Lead Your Life program? Cohort 6 is open for enrollment! Check out more info here:

https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode31

RESOURCES:

Atomic Habits - James Clear

Learn more about the Lead Your Life Program: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2

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.

Embracing your whole self (weird, awkward, and silly parts too!) is key for personal wellness and team success! This week on the Leading with Heart podcast, I’m sitting down with Jen Saraceno, a seasoned leader in the military and government. 🌟

With over 30 years of experience, Jen shares golden nuggets on authentic leadership, self-care, and breaking the mold in male-populated spaces.

Jen shares her journey from conformity to celebrating individuality, and underscores the importance of authenticity in everything that you do. We also dive into the vital role of open communication and emotional intelligence in cultivating a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

This episode serves as a valuable resource for those aspiring to enhance their leadership skills while also maintaining their personal identity and well-being.  Listen in for the journey from conformity to strong, authentic leadership and the empowerment it brings.

If you are ready to take it one step further, join my Free Self Awarness Challenge! Check out the link below.

RESOURCES:

4 Week Self Awareness Challenge

Connect with Jen:

Jen's Blog: www.jensaraceno.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jensaraceno1

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode30

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.

Did you know that your biggest weakness can be your guiding light to your most powerful gifts? Today I am joined by the incredible Alani Bankhead to chat all about Imposter syndrome.

Alani Bankhead is an ICF-certified professional coach, TEDx speaker, best selling author, and owner of Mighty Sparrow Coaching LLC. Through workshops, speaking events, and private coaching, her company is focused on helping individuals and teams crush their imposter syndrome and achieve fulfilling lives and mission outcomes previously thought unattainable. Alani gained this passion during her 20-year career where she hunted spies, terrorists, and human traffickers around the globe as a supervisory special agent. She is now committed to ensuring no one suffers the way she did by guiding heart-centered, high-achieving professionals to understanding that their weakness is actually the key to unlocking their greatest power.

'Imposter Syndrome' is a psychological pattern (that affects 70% of the population)  of doubting one's abilities or accomplishments and harboring persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a fraud. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome begins with acknowledging and recognizing the negative feelings associated with the 'imposter syndrome', followed by bringing curiosity about these feelings, and reviewing past achievements as evidence of competence.

Alani provides some amazing information today about imposter syndrome and why the things you think are your weaknesses, are actually guiding lights to your greatest strengths. Today we will dive into how to transform the feelings of self-doubt and discovering your gifts.

RESOURCES:

Values, The Litmus Test of Aligned Living (https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode13)

The Least of Us - Alani Bankhead

Website (https://www.mightysparrowcoaching.com/)

Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/mightysparrowcoaching/)

LinkedIn ) https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanibankhead/)

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode29

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.