In this conversation, Francesca Cortesi and Alena Ipanova dig into the complexities of navigating cultural differences in the workplace, especially for expats. They discuss the importance of understanding both personal and national cultures, the significance of effective communication, and the challenges of aligning personal values with company culture. Alena emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the willingness to explore unfamiliar cultural interactions to foster better relationships and collaboration in diverse environments.

CHAPTERS

00:46 Navigating Cultural Differences at Work

09:01 Understanding Personal and National Culture

16:06 Improving Communication Across Cultures 

19:40 Bridging Company Culture Gaps 

26:13 Exploring Unfamiliarity in Cultural Interactions 

OUR GUEST

Alena Ipanova, Cultural Intelligence Expert and Trainer

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ialena/

Alena is a cultural intelligence expert, trainer, and coach who helps global leaders and teams work better across differences. With a background in psychology, communication, and intercultural leadership - and over 15 years of experience across various industries - she’s trained thousands of professionals to build trust, communicate clearly, and create inclusive, high-performing teams.

She specializes in helping organizations identify and bridge the hidden gaps between cultures, expectations, and mindsets - turning potential friction into stronger collaboration and smarter decisions.

Alena is also a mom of three, living a nomadic life - moving to a new country every year with her family and turning each new culture into a learning adventure.

COOK WHILE LISTENING

Alena’s go-to dessert for surprise guests or impatient kids who want it now :

https://scandinaviansimpleeating.com/2019/03/29/crumble-pie-with-summer-berries-smulpaj/