“The more you understand where someone comes from, the more you understand how they show up.”
In this debrief episode, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan reflect on their conversation with Dean Foster—and the deeper implications of culture in how we listen, lead, and connect.
What begins as a discussion about global cultural differences quickly becomes something more personal: a reminder that culture isn’t just geographic—it’s inherited, lived, and often invisible to us.
Drawing from their own backgrounds and past podcast conversations, Jerome and Julienne explore how curiosity about others’ stories can unlock trust, deepen relationships, and ultimately make us better leaders.
You’ll Hear
– Why culture shapes far more of our behavior than we consciously realize
– How exploring your own heritage can deepen your understanding of others
– The hidden biases we carry—especially around language, accents, and communication styles
– Why curiosity (“How did you get here?”) is one of the most powerful leadership tools
– How small investments in understanding others can save time and conflict later
– The role of storytelling in uncovering identity, building trust, and fostering collaboration
– A simple but powerful call to action: ask better questions and invite stories
Key Takeaway
We often prioritize efficiency over connection—but when we skip the human context, we lose the very thing that makes collaboration work.
Understanding someone’s culture isn’t about memorizing differences. It’s about being curious enough to listen to the story behind the person.
Resources
Listen to the full conversation in episode #184 with Dean Foster
Related episode #67 with Heather Hansen on language, accents, and bias
Here’s a link to the LISTENING LAB
Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:
Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)
Podcast listeners get 25% off – Use code NARATIV → Register Here
Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.
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