Episode 60: Mastering Cultural Differences with Luiza Dreasher

Heart Hustle and Humor

Today's Guest: Dr. Luiza Dreasher

In the studio today is Dr. Luiza Dreasher. Dr. Luiza's mission is simple. She wants to transform workplaces one cultural difference at a time. That is why she often thinks of herself as a bridge builder and a connector. Her journey into the world of cultural differences began many years ago when she left Brazil to pursue her Ph.D. in the United States. She has over 20 years of experience researching, teaching, and writing about diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural competence development. Her global and domestic diversity expertise has led to consulting jobs and training for numerous audiences, including the United States Department of Defense, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Treiber Foods of Brazil, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and numerous other higher educational institutions. Dr. Luiza is currently the president and CEO of Mastering Cultural Differences. As such, she works with leaders to help them create organizations where all employees feel valued and respected and that they belong. She is also the author of Mastering Cultural Differences: Strategies for Leading a Global Workforce. And in that book, she provides incredible insight into cultural differences impacting today's organizations and best practices for increased performance in the global economy.

https://www.masteringculturaldifferences.com/

https://www.masteringculturaldifferences.com/the-global-academy

https://www.masteringculturaldifferences.com/purchasebook

From this episode:

"Hustling is following your instincts and heart, and don't give up. I so agree with you. Over the years, I've had so many people on the show, and we talk about hustle. It's interesting because I would say for the majority of people, it's about having that purpose, driving towards that purpose, and knowing what's important to you. And I think it's also about having the courage just to put one foot in front of the other; I think culturally, there is a vast difference between how people see hustle here in the United States and other parts of the country." Dr. T

"The reality is, you don't know until you ask. So understanding the other perspective and finding ways around it, for example, in some cultures, it is inappropriate for an employee to say no to his or her supervisor. So knowing that, how can I get to the answer? Because the bottom line is you need the solution. Is the project going to be done by tomorrow? You need to know. But instead of putting them in a situation of them having to say no to you, in my training, I tell my leaders to avoid yes or no questions and give them options, how many days do you need? Is an option A, B, or C? Let them choose what is closer to reality, as opposed to putting them in a place where they have to say no to you. And, of course, as a leader, you have to have that understanding and be flexible enough to navigate this situation." Dr. Luiza