When was the last time you truly got to know someone who was different from you? Someone whose life experiences, cultural background, or perspectives were entirely unlike your own? If that question makes you pause, you’re not alone. It’s one of the reasons I launched Unpacked: Culture Chronicles.

 

Over my career, I’ve seen time and again how curiosity can transform relationships, workplaces, and even entire communities. But I’ve also seen how often people feel stuck before they even get started. Questions like: What if I say the wrong thing? What if I offend someone? How do I find the time to connect when my schedule is already full? can hold us back. Social norms, fear of judgment, and simply not knowing where to begin are powerful barriers.

 

Here’s what I want you to know, connection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It starts with something as simple as asking a question. Not the kind of question meant to confirm what you already think, but one born of genuine curiosity. What makes someone tick? What values drive their decisions? What are the stories that shaped them into who they are today? These are the kinds of questions that spark conversations worth having.

 

Through Unpacked: Culture Chronicles, I’m inviting you to join me on a journey of discovery. This podcast is about more than just talking; it’s about listening, really listening, to perspectives that challenge us, inspire us, and, ultimately, foster a new sense of connectedness. Each episode will feature stories and strategies to help you move past hesitation and into action, whether in your workplace, community or even personal relationships.

 

It’s easy to stay within the comfort zone of people who think, look, and live like we do. But imagine what’s possible if we take a step outside of that. What could we learn? How might our own perspectives grow? What kind of impact could we have if we built bridges instead of walls?

 

Some of the most common questions I hear from clients are: How do I start a conversation with someone who has a different perspective? How do I navigate cultural differences without causing harm? These are big questions, but they’re not insurmountable. Together, we’ll tackle them head-on and explore practical, doable ways to move forward.

 

We’ll hear from guests who do this work every day and those who are simply curious by nature. The point is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and we want to present a multitude of ways to explore and practice curiosity.

 

Curiosity is our starting point. It’s a tool we all have, and it costs nothing to use. This podcast isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect. It’s about taking small, meaningful steps toward understanding and connection.

So, if this sounds like your jam tune into the launch of Unpacked: Culture Chronicles! In this first episode, we’ll explore why curiosity is such a powerful tool for bridging divides and building meaningful connections. Be well, and let’s get curious together.