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Culture in Action
Culture in Action is all about the practical steps HR leaders are taking to transform workplace culture. Tune in to discover actionable tips, real-life examples, and expert advice on designing a workplace culture that drives engagement, retention, and business performance.
Culture in Action
The Real Culture Change Starts with Managers
In this episode, culture expert and author Colin D Ellis joins Luke Fisher to unpack why culture isn’t accidental—it’s a choice. With decades of experience transforming teams, Colin shares how real culture change begins with behaviour, not slogans.
From his early career as an untrained manager to building high-performing teams across sectors, Colin’s story is rooted in lived experience. He introduces his three-part model—leaders commit, managers build, employees own—and explains why most culture initiatives fail by skipping the middle. Full of practical insight, sharp candour, and memorable stories (including the best “least sh*t” workshop ever), this episode will change how you think about leadership and culture work.
With a focus on agency, skill-building, and daily habits, Colin shows that culture isn't a project—it's a practice.
Colin D Ellis – Author & Culture Transformation Expert
Colin helps organisations worldwide build intentional, human‑centred cultures through practical frameworks, behavioural insight, and clear leadership development strategies.
Episode Outline
From Flunking School to Culture Expert
How Colin’s early career sparked a lifelong focus on teamwork.
Leaders Commit, Managers Build, Employees Own
The simple model that underpins lasting cultural change.
Culture Isn’t Complicated—It’s Just Not Owned
Why most efforts fail, and how to make culture actionable.
The Skills Managers Don’t Get Taught
From expectation-setting to feedback, the practical toolkit managers need.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Meeting tweaks, email habits, and other fast fixes that build momentum.
You Can’t Copy Culture
Why rituals must be co-created and context-driven.
Beyond Quick Wins: Long-Term Culture Commitment
How leaders can keep culture evolving—and why it's never "done."
Measuring What Matters
Culture is measurable—if you know what to look for.
Real Threats to Culture
AI hype, bandwagon leadership, and smartphone addiction.
Culture Is Always a Choice
Colin’s closing message for leaders stuck in a cultural rut.
Host & Show Info
Host Name: Luke Fisher
About the Host: Luke Fisher is the CEO of Mo, a platform that's all about helping teams create workplaces where people genuinely want to be. Luke's on a mission to show that brilliant company culture isn't just a nice-to-have but what makes teams thrive, feel connected, and do brilliant work together. Mo helps organisations around the world turn their values from poster-board promises into real, everyday habits that bring teams closer and give everyone a sense of purpose. It's culture you can actually see and feel in action.
Podcast Website: Culture in Action
Where to find us:
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