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August 13, 2025 26 mins

In this episode of Collaborative Culture, Monica and Kristine dive into the critical difference between teamwork and collaboration, and why culture is the secret ingredient that so many organizations miss when building high-performing teams. While teamwork is essential for structure, roles, and meeting goals, it’s collaboration that fuels creativity, innovation, and resilience. But how do these two forces interact in the modern workplace?


From AI’s impact on team dynamics to the evolving expectations of today’s workforce, we explore why understanding the human side of teamwork is more important than ever. Whether you lead a team of innovators or maintain a well-oiled machine, this episode offers insights into building a culture that empowers your team to do more than just check off tasks — but to truly thrive.


Show Notes:

Key Topics Discussed:

  1. Teamwork vs. Collaboration: What’s the difference, and why does it matter in your workplace?
  2. The Role of Culture in Team Dynamics: Why culture is the missing link in many teams and how to integrate it into your processes.
  3. Adapting to Change: The impact of rapid technological advancements like AI on teamwork and collaboration, and why companies need to embrace adaptability.
  4. The Shift in Work Expectations: Exploring the shift from rigid job roles to more flexible, innovative roles as we move away from traditional work models.
  5. Real-World Examples: Lessons learned from the aviation industry and healthcare that highlight the consequences of failing to understand the human element in teamwork.
  6. Leadership in Teamwork: The importance of leading with empathy, trust, and a focus on human connection in team management.


Why It Matters:

As organizations grapple with change, adaptability, and innovation, the ability to foster effective teamwork is no longer just about meeting deadlines. It’s about creating an environment where collaboration thrives, and individuals can bring their full selves to work. Monica and Kristine discuss how to build the right foundation for team success by blending structure with culture.


Takeaways:

  • Teamwork gives structure, but culture drives true collaboration.
  • Embrace change by cultivating a team dynamic that values collaboration as much as efficiency.
  • Recognizing the human side of your team is key to long-term success.


Connect with Us:

If you're looking to build a stronger, more collaborative culture within your team, reach out to Monica and Kristine today! Let’s work together to create a culture where teams don’t just perform, but thrive.


We'd love to hear from you! Send your questions, feedback, or suggestions to either of our email or message us via LinkedIn.


Please follow/subscribe, give us a rating and review, and share with anyone who is interested in workplace culture! Thanks for Listening!


Dr. Kristine Gentry

kgentry@culturegrove.com

🌐 www.culturegrove.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristine-mckenzie-gentry/


Monica M. Smith

tradewindscareerconsulting@gmail.com

🌐 www.tradewindscareerconsulting.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamarysmith/


If you enjoyed the show, please: subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about building better teams. 

Thanks for Listening!

We’d love to hear from you.


Kristine Gentry, PhD

kgentry@culturegrove.com

🌐 www.culturegrove.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Kristine McKenzie Gentry


Monica M. Smith

tradewindscareerconsulting@gmai.com

🌐 www.tradewindscareerconsulting.com

🔗 LinkedIn: Monica Mary Smith


If you enjoyed the show, please: subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about building better teams. 


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