Leading Change

Taylor Swift Just Gave a Masterclass in Change Management

What if I told you Taylor Swift is a change management mastermind, not just a mastermind of planting Easter Eggs?In this episode of Leading Change - Change in the Wild, I break down how Taylor (and her comms team) executed one of the clearest, boldest change communication strategies we’ve seen in years.
From buying back her masters to not re-recording Reputation, Swift didn’t just pivot. She brought her fans with her. I’ll show you how her announcement mirrors my 4P Vision Framework (Purpose, People, Process, Participation) and what leaders can learn from her messaging strategy.Are you managing a team through change? Hit play and let Taylor Swift show you how it's done.

How to Reclaim Executive Function When Life Gets Overwhelming with Frankie Berkoben

Ema is joined by executive coach Frankie Bercobin to discuss how executive function influences performance and productivity in the workplace, especially under stress, neurodivergence like ADHD, or during career transitions.

AI-First Is Not a Strategy: Duolingo’s Mistake Explained

Want to know what declaring you are AI-First will get you? Canceled and quick.
In this solo episode of Leading Change, Ema Roloff breaks down Duolingo’s major misstep after a leaked internal memo revealed their “AI-First” strategy.
Thousands of users canceled subscriptions. Critics flooded the comments. Why? Because People-first > AI-first, especially when the message is delivered without clarity, empathy, or vision.
📉 In this breakdown, you’ll learn:✅ What Duolingo got wrong in their AI-first messaging✅ How it triggered backlash from both users and employees✅ Why vision statements fail without clarity, transparency, and empathy✅ How to actually lead digital transformation using the 4P Framework (Purpose, People, Process, Participation)
Whether you’re a CEO, team lead, or tech enthusiast, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating the intersection of leadership, AI, and change management, without alienating your people.

What Improv Can Teach Us About Leading Through Uncertainty with Ian McCain

Ema is joined by Ian McCain, a digital transformation expert and seasoned improviser, to explore how the mindset of improv can unlock trust, momentum, and innovation during change initiatives. Whether you're leading a tech rollout or managing team dynamics, this episode offers powerful, practical tools to help you navigate the unknown with confidence.

How to Lead a People-First Digital Transformation Without Burning Out with Michelle Raue

In this special Live from New York edition of Leading Change with Ema Roloff - Ema sits down with Michelle Ralph, EVP, Chief Claim and Transformation Officer at Preferred Mutual, to talk about what it really takes to lead a successful digital transformation—starting with your people.

How Defense Teams Can Break the Cycle of Nuclear Verdicts with Ashley Fetyko

Ema sits down with Ashley Fetko, Partner and Head of Growth & Client Engagement at Tyson & Mendes, to explore the defense strategies that actually stop nuclear verdicts. Ashley dives into the power of storytelling, the need for collaboration, and why being a good human is more than just a motto—it's the foundation of winning in the courtroom.

The FBI’s Secret to Building Trust: What Leaders Can Learn with Robin Dreeke

Ema is joined by Robin Dreeke, founder of People Formula, former FBI Special Agent, and behavioral expert, for a powerful conversation on what it truly takes to build trust as a leader. Drawing from his experience recruiting spies and leading counterintelligence efforts, Robin shares powerful lessons on vulnerability, active communication, and shifting your focus from self to others.

Why Your Team is Holding Back in Meetings (And How to Fix It) with Minette Norman

Ema is joined by Minette Norman, an expert in inclusive leadership and psychological safety. Together, they explore how to recognize and fix the “meeting after the meeting” culture—those side conversations that happen when teams don’t feel safe speaking up.

Why Empathy is a Leadership Superpower with Maria Ross

Ema is joined by Maria Ross, an author, speaker, and empathy advocate, to discuss why empathy isn’t just about being nice—it’s a strategic advantage. They dive into the myths of empathy in leadership, how it drives high-performance teams, and why it’s essential for building a strong workplace culture.

Leading with Intention: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Authenticity with Jon Giganti

Ema sits down Jon Giganti as he shares his journey from corporate sales to leadership coaching and speaking. He opens up about overcoming self-doubt, managing anxiety, and embracing vulnerability in leadership. Discover how shifting your mindset from “being good” to “being helpful” can transform the way you lead and connect with others.