intelligence combined with kindness and connection. What happens when we face global tensions, political uncertainties, and fractured communities? How can we move beyond understanding to action that truly builds bridges?

Discover why cultural intelligence alone isn't enough and how adding kindness and meaningful connections transforms the way we navigate differences. Trisha previews conversations ahead with practitioners working in cross-cultural storytelling, music, Japanese multinationals, and social cohesion, while responding to recent events that have tested our collective compassion.

The episode closes with a concrete CQ action: participating in the National Day of Mourning for Bondi through acts of mitzvah—simple, everyday kindness that creates waves of goodwill. This is cultural intelligence in practice: not just knowing, but doing.

Join Trisha in this journey of growth and discovery throughout the year via Substack or LinkedIn.

National Day of Mourning for the victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack​

Content note: This episode addresses recent acts of terror and may be difficult for some listeners.

In this solo episode, Trisha responds to the recent Bondi Beach shooting with a gentle but powerful reminder: cultural intelligence isn't just for crossing borders—it can be lifesaving in times of crisis.

What happens when fear spikes and communities fracture? How do we stay motivated to understand rather than retreat into tribalism? Trisha explores how CQ's four capabilities—Drive, Knowledge, Strategy, and Action—offer a framework for navigating tragedy, trauma, and rising tensions. She honours the diverse heroes who ran toward danger, from Ahmed Al Ahmed to Jessica Rosen, showing how humanity transcends cultural boundaries in moments that matter most.

This episode asks: Who are we standing with? Who are we standing for? And what does it mean to stand together when the world tries to pull us apart? Trisha offers practical guidance on processing trauma while maintaining the curiosity and connection that CQ requires, even—especially—when it's hardest.

If you're struggling, help is available 24/7:

For Australian listeners:

NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511

Lifeline: 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or chat online

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or chat online

1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or chat online

13 Yarn: 13 92 76

MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78

Emergency: 000.

International listeners can find support at https://findahelpline.com/

Join Trisha in this journey of growth and discovery throughout the year via Substack or LinkedIn.

In this episode, Trisha interviews returning guest Lucy Butters, a master facilitator in cultural intelligence with the Cultural Intelligence Centre and author of the new book "Cultural Intelligence in Practice: Expert Insights for Trainers in a Multicultural Globalised World."

What happens when a CQ trainer discovers that the most challenging cultural contexts aren't in distant lands, but close to home? How can holding discomfort with curiosity rather than rushing to judgment transform the way we navigate cultural differences? Lucy shares insights from interviewing 12 CQ experts across the globe, revealing how the writing process itself became a mirror—exposing hidden cultural assumptions in everything from word choices to argumentative tone. The conversation explores her father's wisdom about looking out "with love and respect," and why Lucy explicitly asks readers to use their own cultural intelligence while reading her book.

Buy Lucy's book, Cultural Intelligence in Practice, here! And take a look at Cross Cultural Catalysts. Cross Cultural Catalysts will be a home for cross-cultural facilitators by fostering a collaborative community where members can sharpen their skills, share expertise, and amplify their impact. In 2026, Lucy and Dr Lyla Kohistany will be launching this network. If you wish to be kept up to date about the launch, please register your interest here.

Listen to Lucy's first episode on the Shift - Shifts for Cultural Intelligence Facilitators

Make sure you join Trisha in this journey of growth and discovery throughout the year via Substack or LinkedIn.