Collaborative-Culture

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


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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. SmithLinkedIn | tradewindscareerconsulting.com | [email protected]


Dr. Kristine GentryLinkedIn | culturegrove.com | [email protected]


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

[email protected]

🌐 www.culturegrove.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Kristine McKenzie Gentry


Monica M. Smith

[email protected]

🌐 www.tradewindscareerconsulting.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Monica Mary Smith


If you enjoyed the show, please: subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about building better teams. 

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Collaborative-CultureBy Kristine Gentry and Monica M. Smith