# LIVE! Can Cultural Intelligence actually improve performance at work? With Polly Collingridge and Bernadette Thompson OBE

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/truth-lies-and-work-5599780/live-can-cultural-intelligence-actually-improve-performance-at-work-with-polly-collingridge-and-bernadette-thompson-obe
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/truth-lies-and-work-5599780/live-can-cultural-intelligence-actually-improve-performance-at-work-with-polly-collingridge-and-bernadette-thompson-obe.md
Podcast: [Truth, Lies and Work](https://stenobird.com/podcast/truth-lies-and-work-5599780)
Published: 2026-06-19T07:30:00+00:00
Episode link: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/HS1067364409.mp3
Audio file: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/HS1067364409.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/truth-lies-and-work-5599780/episodes/live-can-cultural-intelligence-actually-improve-performance-at-work-with-polly-collingridge-and-bernadette-thompson-obe
Duration seconds: 4091

## Resource

Most of us have sat through an inclusion training program that didn't change much—maybe a workshop, a follow-up email, and then it's back to normal. But what happens when an organization moves past the standard checkboxes and actually puts Cultural Intelligence (CQ) to work? In this special LinkedIn Live episode of Truth, Lies & Work, we dive deep into the framework of CQ—an evidence-based, academically validated skill that measures your ability to relate to and work effectively alongside people from different cultural backgrounds. We look at a remarkable real-world case study at Barts Health NHS Trust. By training thousands of staff members across their workforce, they achieved measurable improvements in staff engagement, team dynamics, and patient care in one of the most pressurized environments imaginable. Following the structural approach seen in our Show notes example, this episode breaks down how leaders of any size organization can use CQ to reduce toxic conflict, improve retention, and build a workplace where everyone belongs. 🔥 Key Takeaways From This Episode What CQ Actually Is (and Isn't): Cultural Intelligence is not a rigid rulebook on how to behave, nor is it just basic cultural awareness. It is a distinct, measurable capability divided into four core pillars: Drive, Knowledge, Strategy, and Action. The 10 Behavioral Preferences: Workplace misunderstandings often stem from deep-seated preferences rather than malice. We explore dimensions like expressive vs. non-expressive communication styles and how mapping these helps teams collaborate seamlessly. The Real Cost of Poor Culture: High employee turnover, costly legal tribunals, and skyrocketing absenteeism aren't just HR headaches—they are massive financial drains. From tribunal payouts to bank and agency…

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## Transcript

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