Kaleidoscopes, Not Rubik’s Cubes: Rethinking Collaboration at Work

Description

In this episode of Collaborative Culture, Monica and Kristine pull back the curtain on what collaboration really means in the modern workplace. Far from a buzzword, true collaboration is a dynamic behavior—not just a team activity or a calendar full of meetings.

Together, they unpack:

The key differences between collaboration and teamwork
Cultural and structural barriers that stall collaboration
Why being back in the office doesn't automatically lead to connection
How trust, purpose, and flexibility create the soil for collaboration to grow

Whether you're managing a global team, navigating hybrid work, or just tired of meetings that lead nowhere—this episode offers practical insights and fresh metaphors (spoiler alert: kaleidoscopes > Rubik’s cubes) to help you lead smarter.

🔗 Show Notes

Resources Mentioned:

The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni
Citigroup’s hybrid work stance, as championed by CEO Jane Fraser
Iceland’s four-day workweek study (2015–2019) Summary via Autonomy
Podcast episode from Ropes & Gray on global compliance implementation (mentioned by Monica)

Key Takeaways:

Collaboration is a behavior, not a location or job function.
Cultural fluency and contextual awareness are essential to true collaboration.
Meetings should be intentional and designed around contributions—not just attendance.
Organizational purpose is the common ground where collaboration thrives.
Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about enabling connection.

Connect with Us:

We'd love to hear from you! Send your questions, feedback, or suggestions to either of our email or message us via LinkedIn.

Monica M. Smith: LinkedIn | tradewindscareerconsulting.com | tradewindscareerconsulting@gmail.com

Dr. Kristine Gentry: LinkedIn | culturegrove.com | kgentry@culturegrove.com

Please follow/subscribe, give us a rating and review, and share with anyone who is interested in workplace culture!

Thanks for Listening!

We’d love to hear from you.

Kristine Gentry, PhD

kgentry@culturegrove.com

🌐 www.culturegrove.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Kristine McKenzie Gentry

Monica M. Smith