158. Core and Flex CQ

In this second episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia Middleton, Mother of Practical CQ, founder of Women Emerging and the podcast host dives into the Core and Flex: a simple yet powerful way to understand how Cultural Intelligence works in practice. She explains why women with high Cultural Intelligence to have clarity on what is non-negotiable in their identity (Core) and where they can adapt and evolve (Flex) when crossing cultural boundaries. 

"The stronger your core, the more people will trust you. And the more flexible your flex, the more people will trust you," said Julia. 

Julia explains how finding the line between core and flex should keep moving as that is what helps in navigating different generations, sectors, beliefs, specialisms, aspirations and backgrounds while staying true to ourselves. Through personal stories she illustrates the risks of having either an overwhelming core with little adaptability or too much flexibility without a clear identity. 

Listen to this episode to discover how understanding your Core and Flex can help you lead across cultures, build trust, and navigate complexity with confidence. 

 

Every week, we produce a new episode that explores women and leadership from a different perspective.In a series of lively, wide-ranging discussions, we talk to women all over the world who are dealing with tough leadership challenges in their daily lives. We find out the barriers they face and how they are overcoming them; they share their experiences, insights and advice. (the series also informs and illustrates the expedition while it is underway and gives updates on the members’ progress.)Episodes come out every Wednesday and once a month, we do a live q&a.

• No. of episodes: 173
• Latest episode: 2025-07-09
• Education Society & Culture

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