Welcome to Season 3 of The Pharma Medic! In this kickoff episode, we dive into one of the most transformative frameworks for team success: Patrick Lencioni’s The Five Dysfunctions of a Team. Whether you’re leading a team in medical affairs or collaborating across departments, this episode is packed with insights, reflections, and actionable coaching to help you build trust, foster collaboration, and drive results.

We begin with a personal story about transitioning into European corporate culture, highlighting how team dynamics can vary widely across different environments. From hierarchy-driven systems to more egalitarian workplaces, the nuances of teamwork set the stage for understanding why Lencioni’s model is so impactful.

Then, we explore the five dysfunctions that can derail any team:

Absence of Trust – Learn how vulnerability is the foundation of trust and how to create a safe space for openness in your team.

Fear of Conflict – Discover how healthy, respectful debate drives better decision-making and why avoiding conflict can hinder innovation.

Lack of Commitment – Understand how clarity and alignment are essential for genuine buy-in and how to prevent ambiguity in team decisions.

Avoidance of Accountability – Explore why peer-to-peer accountability is key to maintaining high standards and how to foster a feedback-friendly culture.

Inattention to Results – Refocus your team on shared goals and collective success by aligning personal contributions with organizational objectives.

Through real-world examples, coaching prompts, and practical advice, this episode serves as your guide to recognizing and addressing these dysfunctions in your own teams. Each dysfunction is paired with actionable strategies to help you build a cohesive, high-performing team, whether you’re navigating the complexities of medical affairs or any collaborative work environment.

Coaching Highlights:

Reflect on your team’s dynamics with targeted questions and prompts.

Embrace vulnerability and accountability as tools for growth.

Transform tension into alignment and shared purpose.

This episode isn’t just about theory—it’s about transformation. By the end of this session, you’ll have the tools to identify where your team stands and the first steps to take toward greater cohesion and success.

Join me on this journey of discovery and growth as we break down the barriers to effective teamwork and uncover the potential of working together toward a common goal. Have thoughts, questions, or your own team experiences to share? Email me at [email protected].

Tune in now and take the first step toward building stronger, more collaborative teams in medical affairs and beyond!