What does a missing jar of marmalade in India reveal about global leadership?
If you have ever worked in a different country, you’ve most likely been Culture Shocked. In this episode of Build a Vibrant Culture, Nicole Greer sits down with cross-cultural business expert Dean Foster, author of Business Beyond Borders, to explore what he’s learned from working in more than 100 countries.
From communication styles and time management to risk tolerance, information sharing, and workplace formality, Dean shares powerful stories that reveal how culture quietly shapes everything we do at work.
If you lead a global team, work across time zones, or collaborate with people from different backgrounds — this conversation will expand your awareness and sharpen your leadership.
Vibrant Highlights:
[00:12:50] The Missing Marmalade Story – Dean shares how ordering a croissant in India turned into a masterclass on indirect communication and hierarchy — and what it means for leaders managing global teams.
[00:20:13] Direct vs. Indirect Cultures – Why Americans “say what they mean,” why some cultures don’t — and how misreading this can create serious workplace breakdowns.
[00:23:19] Managing the Clock Across Cultures – From strict deadlines to flexible time norms, Dean explains how history, climate, and agriculture shaped how cultures view punctuality and planning.
[00:32:04] Information Sharing & Risk Tolerance – Some cultures share everything. Others guard information as power. Dean explains how this connects to decision-making and comfort with risk.
[00:54:51] The #1 Rule for Working Anywhere in the World – Dean’s final advice after decades of global consulting: Stay humble. You’re a guest — and leadership means adapting, not imposing.
Connect with Dean:
Book: Business Beyond Borders https://a.co/d/0eKdRary
Other books by Dean: bit.ly/4aNXar9
Website: deanfosterglobal.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/dfaintercultural
YouTube: youtube.com/deanfosterglobal
IG: @deanfosterglobal
Podcast: oopscultureshow.blubrry.net
Ready to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?
Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.
Visit: vibrantculture.com
Email: [email protected]
Watch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos
