Ep#26: Why Your Startup’s Culture Sucks (and How to Fix It) - Michael Landers
Ep#26: Why Your Startup’s Culture Sucks (and How to Fix It) - Michael Landers  
Podcast: Startups Decoded
Published On: Mon Jul 21 2025
Description: Send us a textIn this episode of Startups Decoded, Michael Landers shares why culture isn’t just an HR function; it’s a startup’s competitive edge. We’ll explore how founders can intentionally shape company culture from day one, avoid common leadership pitfalls, and navigate cross-cultural challenges as they scale globally.Key discussion points:Why culture is the foundation of startup success, not an afterthoughtHow to build and scale a company culture that aligns with business goalsThe role of founder leadership in shaping team dynamics and company valuesCross-cultural challenges in hiring, partnerships, and expansionLessons from working with global organizations on culture-driven leadershipMichael’s insights will help founders think beyond strategy and execution, because in the end, a strong culture is what sustains high-growth startups.Michael Landers.Speaker, Author, and Founder of Culture Crossing.Michael Landers is a globally recognized speaker, author, and consultant specializing in organizational culture, leadership development, and cross-cultural communication. With a career dedicated to empowering organizations to reach their full human potential, he has worked with leaders and teams worldwide to cultivate purpose-driven cultures that foster awareness, alignment, and growth.A Global Perspective on Culture and LeadershipHaving grown up in Latin America and later lived in Japan, Michael developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and ways of working. These experiences shaped his understanding of how culture influences leadership, team dynamics, and business outcomes. His insights have guided leaders in navigating complex, multicultural environments and building high-performing, inclusive organizations.Founder of Culture CrossingAs the founder of Culture Crossing, Michael helps organizations cultivate intentional cultures that align with their values, vision, and goals. Driving Impact Through Thought LeadershipMichael is the author of Culture Crossing: Discover the Key to Making Successful Connections in the New Global Era, a practical guide to navigating cultural differences in business and leadership. SHOW NOTESMusic Credit: "Neptuno" - Phondupe (Album: Onykia)Chapters00:00 Understanding Culture in Startups02:33 Michael Landers' Journey and Expertise04:36 The Evolution of Corporate Culture06:13 Observing Culture: The Gap Between Intent and Reality10:56 The Role of Leadership in Shaping Culture13:17 Defining Culture in Early-Stage Startups15:49 The Importance of Language in Cultural Frameworks18:52 Behavioral Modeling and Leadership Influence20:50 Transforming Culture: Is It Too Late?22:27 The Impact of Managers on Employee Retention25:04 Hiring for Culture vs. Skills27:17 Celebrati