Leading With Heart

In this episode of Leading with Heart, we’re talking mindfulness! This buzzword is getting a lot of attention in the mental health world… but what does it MEAN? My definition is paying attention, on purpose, to the present moment, without judgment. Today, I’m sharing practical ways to introduce mindfulness into your daily routine, so you can take it from idea to execution in your life!

We’re talking about how to infuse mindfulness into daily activities such as walking, eating, and breathing. We’ll also explore the concepts of gratitude and discerning what’s within your realm of control. Listen now for how to apply mindfulness to our crazy military lives and our busy, busy brains!

Resources:

FREE Mindfulness Challenge: https://fabulous-pioneer-9504.ck.page/13952ca49f

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

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode18

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

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.

Eli Gardner is an award-winning author and military veteran who has been deployed 13 times. Eli experienced a lot in her 13 military and civilian deployments and wants to be a voice for others who experienced the same things that she did.

Eli is passionate about being a voice for veterans and conveying the emotions and realities of military life through her art. Turning trauma into something beautiful is possible and Eli encourages everyone to use the experiences they have been through for the greater good and to create beauty out of it. Those experiences are what you are meant to share with the world.

Eli will read two poems today from her book Hookah Smoke and Hellfire: Poems from War (The Desert War Collection): "Time Warp Lounge" and "Message in a Bottle.”

As humans, when we experience trauma or uncomfortable situations we tend to stuff those feelings and emotions away into a box. Today we discuss how you can only put so much into a box before they need to be dealt with. Over the past few years, Eli has finally had time to think, process, and heal which is when her books and poetry were born. Eli’s words are a powerful reminder of the beauty and pain of the military experience.

RESOURCES:

Connect with Eli on Instagram: @abrakadabraink

Buy Eli's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Eli-Gardner/author/B09VDZGX4M?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Her NEW book Rapunzel Must Die: https://www.amazon.com/Rapunzel-Must-Die-Fairytales-Collection/dp/B0CJT2TCDD/

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

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode17

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.

Content warning: In this episode we discuss suicidal ideations and depression.

Today I am joined by Audra Carpenter, a dear friend and client of mine. We are discussing mental health in the military and Audra’s journey of navigating depression and recovery.

We’ll discuss how important it is to find treatment and care that works for YOU, and what Audra did to find the proper care.

Today, Audra is an active participant in helping others get the care and help that they need and deserve. She’s an amazing advocate and makes sure others know that they are not alone in their journey.

Resources:

Mental Health and Security Clearances https://www.dcsa.mil/Portals/91/Documents/pv/DODCAF/resources/DCSA-FactSheet_Mental-Health.pdf

Veteran's Crisis Line: Dial 988

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net

Military OneSource - Non-Medical Counseling

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/non-medical-counseling/military-onesource/military-counseling-for-stress/

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode16

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.

Content Warning: Mention of Suicide

In today's episode, we're tackling a topic of utmost importance: mental health in the military. I’ll share eye-opening statistics, put a spotlight on mental health topics that are often overlooked, and share my own journey with mental health.

Within the military, there's an all-too-common reluctance among active duty personnel and veterans to seek the mental health care they need. The shadows of shame, stigma, and potential career repercussions loom large. Even for those who muster the courage to seek help, there are often logistical, cultural, and professional barriers that can stand in the way.

Tune in to discover why shattering the stigma surrounding mental health care is an urgent mission. Learn why taking action before a situation escalates is crucial.

I’ll be sharing strategies to keep your mental health in check and offer invaluable tips on fortifying your own emotional well-being. Don't miss out on this empowering episode!

Resources:

If you are having thoughts of suicidal ideation please call the Veterans Crisis Line dial 988 and press 1 OR text 838-255 OR visit their website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode15

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

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.

Join us in this inspiring episode as I sit down with Kacey Ezell, a remarkable individual who has blazed a trail of celebrating her own version of what success looks like. From her early days dreaming of flying to her career as a United States Air Force helicopter pilot and now as an EMS pilot, Kacey's journey is one for the books.

Kacey opens up about a pivotal moment in her career, when a letter of reprimand threatened to end it. Undeterred, she channelled her determination into becoming an exceptional instructor, eventually earning the promotion she rightfully deserved.

Through her experiences, Kasey delivers a powerful message about the significance of prioritizing personal happiness and fulfillment over societal and military norms. She candidly shares the challenges she faced when choosing love over her career, a decision that led to unexpected consequences and moments of isolation.

In our conversation we talk about the power of controlling your own destiny, defining success on your own terms, and placing self-care at the forefront. Kasey's story serves as inspiration for anyone seeking to navigate their own path, reminding us all that our choices shape our journey, and it's never too late to redefine what success truly means. Don't miss this episode packed with wisdom, courage, and the determination to soar above expectations.

RESOURCES:

Kayce’s Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Website

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode14

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.

Join me as we dive into one of my FAVORITE topics: Values and their life-changing potential! I share a personal breakthrough moment that changed the trajectory of my life, all thanks to discovering my core values.

This episode is unique as I’ll walk you through an interactive exercise to discover your own values and start living your life on purpose.

As you explore this episode, remember to embrace curiosity and a passion for growth as we identify and seek to understand your core values. From there, you have the potential to use your values as a litmus test for aligned living and support you in decision-making and prioritization.

I am offering a small number of exclusive 1:1 values elicitation sessions!! This is for you if you’re ready to truly diver deeper into your values and have the intimate support of a coach on your self-discovery journey.

Book yours here:

https://hello.dubsado.com:443/public/appointment-scheduler/64f8bd2ca7ebd3c4c1cd3e74/schedule

Resources:

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode13

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

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.

This mindset trap is a sneaky culprit that often sabotages our aspirations in various areas of life. From fitness goals to career ambitions, this mindset can leave us feeling stuck and defeated. In today's conversation, we dive deep into all-or-nothing thinking. I shed light on this common mental trap and also share five invaluable strategies to break free and propel yourself forward.

In this episode, we explore real-life examples of the all-or-nothing mindset and provide actionable tips to overcome it. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your mindset and create a more balanced and fulfilling life. Tune in to Leading with Heart and embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery.

RESOURCES:

Strong and Resilient Self Care Guide (https://fabulous-pioneer-9504.ck.page/cc89e791fc)

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode12

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.

This week we are continuing the conversation about perfectionism. I am joined by Major Sam Sliney, 724th Special Tactics Group Staff Judge Advocate, a mother of three, and wife to an Army Green Beret. Sam discusses her experiences as a perfectionist and the importance of self-reflection, seeking feedback, and discerning when perfectionism is necessary.

We dive deep into the value of admitting mistakes and taking ownership, as well as how to decide what tasks and activities don’t require perfection. Parenthood has helped Sam prioritize family over perfectionism. The episode highlights the importance of communicating expectations, learning from different personalities, and creating a positive work environment.

RESOURCES:

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode11

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.

Perfectionism may seem like a good thing at first, but it can actually be a roadblock in your progress. In this episode we’re talking about why. We’ll discuss what perfectionism is, how it shows up, and some root causes. Then we’ll explore some ways you can shift from perfectionism to healthy striving, and set more realistic expectations for yourself, to take some of the pressure off to be "perfect.”

If you’re constantly setting unrealistic expectations for yourself, you have a LOUD inner drill sergeant, or you struggle with procrastinating because you fear the end product won’t be “good enough,” this episode is for you. Let’s learn together how to identify perfectionism and how to reframe it, so you can be amazing at what you do without judgement, fear, and burnout.

In this episode, we cover:

- What perfectionism is
- Some of the main causes of perfectionism
- Signs of perfectionism
- Causes of perfectionism
- Difference between perfectionism and healthy striving

RESOURCES:

www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

If you liked what you heard today please be sure to subscribe on whichever platform you listen to podcasts on and leave us a review! This helps us get our message out and reach more military leaders like you.

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode10

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 I am so honored to be joined by Lt Col Angie Stephens! In this episode, Angie shares her journey on finding her authentic self. She felt that she had created the persona of someone she “thought” she was supposed to be. This hustle after a persona that wasn’t aligned to her values led to serious burnout.

Angie is a C-130 navigator by trade, and has spent time in both the Special Operations and IG communities. She loves paddleboarding and driving her jeep, and is a proud Texas Aggie! Today, Angie is sharing her story of how she finally made the decision to start investing in herself and her self-care. It wasn't easy, but she's embraced 1% progress and imperfect action along the way. Listen to this episode for an honest conversation about self-discovery and authenticity. 

In the working world, women often build walls and wear facades in order to be competitive and “fit in with the guys.” Tired of pretending to be someone she wasn't, Angie shares about her realization that living for others doesn't lead to true happiness or fulfillment. Her mission became breaking free from this pattern and live as her authentic self all the time.

Join us for this empowering episode as we explore Angie's journey to self care on the “Leading with Heart” podcast.

RESOURCES:
Lead Your Life (https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/lead-your-life-2)
www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com (https://www.leadingwithheartpodcast.com/)

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

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode9

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.