What if the most effective leadership isn’t about always having the answers… but about being bold enough to create space for the real problems to surface?

In part 1 of this 2 part powerful conversation, I sit down with leadership communication coach Brooke Brzozowske, founder of Up Until Now Coaching and a seasoned federal leader with decades of experience navigating complex organizational change. Together, we discuss a common leadership mindset that many of us have heard (and maybe even said): “Don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions.” And we explore why that approach might be doing more harm than good.

Brooke shares how our obsession with quick fixes and polished answers can cause us to miss the heart of what’s actually happening in our teams. Through curiosity, courage, and intentional listening, she reveals how leaders can create trust-filled environments where real conversations thrive and real progress is made.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why the “only bring me solutions” mindset can limit real leadership
• The difference between performing leadership and living it
• How curiosity creates space for deeper trust and innovation
• The value of asking better questions, especially when problems feel messy
• How to create a culture where unfinished ideas are welcomed

Listen in and challenge your default approach to leadership, it might just transform how you show up, and be sure to stay tuned next week for part 2 of the interview to wrap up this conversation!

RESOURCES:

Connect with Brooke:

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

Website: www.tilnowcoaching.com

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-brzozowske

Workbook: https://thislittleconsultingfirm.kit.com/products/overwhelm-to-action-workbook

The Coaching Habit - Michael Bungay Stanier

The Advice Trap - Michael Bungay Stanier

SHOW NOTES: https://www.christinamattisonyoga.com/blog/episode69

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.