July 02, 2026

Company Culture by Design: Michael Grochmal

33 minutes

Culture Isn't an HR Program—It's Leadership in Action

How to Build an Intentional Workplace Culture

Episode 312 (Michael is based in Ontario, Canada, repeat of #162)

In this conversation with Michael Grochmal we explore:

why every organization already has a culture

the difference between intentional and accidental culture

how everyday behaviors define organizational values

building customer service into company culture

recognizing employees in meaningful ways

creating belonging for remote employees

using handwritten notes to strengthen relationships

learning from other successful organizations

why leaders should experience their own customer journey

how culture books reinforce organizational identity

creating accountability through agreement

why people need to understand the purpose behind expectations

building a learning organization

making culture part of everyday leadership

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About our guest Michael Grochmal:

Michael is Director of Culture for CEO Global Network. He's been a member for 14 years.

Before selling the company. he was President of AtlasCare for 12 years.

Learn more about CEO Global Network

https://ceoglobalnetwork.com/

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Key points from this conversation:

Company culture exists whether you intentionally create it or not.

Culture is simply an agreed set of behaviors and expectations.

Leaders should build culture by design rather than by accident.

Every action communicates a message to employees, customers and suppliers.

Small, consistent behaviors reinforce organizational values.

Employee recognition becomes meaningful when it is personal.

Leaders should regularly experience their business as customers.

Culture grows stronger when people understand the "why" behind expectations.

Remote employees require intentional efforts to feel connected.

Learning organizations create stronger leaders and stronger cultures.

Company culture belongs to everyone, not only the CEO.

Celebrating success reminds people that their work matters.

Accountability begins with shared agreement rather than imposed control.

Great cultures continuously evolve through observation, learning and refinement.

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