Leading Through Change Starts With Trust: Chris Heim
“THE DAY THIS GETS EASY IS THE DAY I NEED TO BE DONE.”
Episode Description
In this episode of Leadership Matters, Chris Heim joins host Kaylee Thomsen for an honest conversation about people-first leadership, change, and what it takes to lead through uncertainty. Chris shares Atomic Data’s mission to “humanize the IT experience,” reflects on stepping into a founder-led company after loss, and explains how he built trust while leading major change. He also talks about servant leadership, communication, feedback, and why words matter in culture. Chris offers a thoughtful look at leading in 2026, including AI, strategy, and staying adaptable, while keeping the human side of leadership at the center.
Chapters
- 00:00 Intro: Meet Chris Heim
- 04:50 Navigating the First 90 Days After a Founder's Loss
- 09:35 The Hard Part of Change Management
- 11:11 Where "People First" Leadership Comes From
- 12:23 Formative Experiences and Finding His Own Style
- 14:08 The Beach Ball, Triangle, and Calligraphy Pen Metaphors
- 14:41 The Sherman Black Story
- 18:49 Becoming CEO for the First Time
- 21:11 The Hardest Part of the Transition
- 23:27 Staying a "Student" of Leadership
- 25:45 Leaning on His Executive Team
- 26:34 Turning Feedback Into Better Communication
- 30:26 Values, Family, and Creating a Safe Landing Spot
- 32:47 Why Words Matter: Chase vs. Pursuit, Profit vs. Fuel
- 35:02 The Biggest Leadership Challenges in 2026
- 37:29 Why Change Doesn't Scare Him
- 39:51 What He Looks for Beyond Technical Skill
- 44:33 The Story of Grant and Dairy Queen
- 49:18 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
More In The Series
See all on Youtube
