Do you ever feel like people are too blunt – or not direct enough? Do you live by the clock, or are you free with your schedule? Do you like to cut to the chase and get to work, or do you need to warm up first? These are not just individual preferences – they are cultural norms. In this episode, I explore why we are the way we are, and what happens when different cultures collide.

Read the article.

The Culture Map

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I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun.

As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and joy. A few things I love: wandering European streets in search of the best vegetarian meal, practicing Italian, and helping my clients design lives that feel rich and meaningful.

If you want to become a more calm, confident communicator at work and in your personal life – let’s talk.

Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot?

I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respond with clarity, whether you’re in a meeting or just talking with friends.

Download it at sarahmikutel.com/blanknomore and start feeling more confident in your conversations today.

There's an unwritten rule in Swedish culture called the Law of Jante: Don't think you're special. Don't stand out. Blend in. It’s the opposite of American individualism – and both sides have a shadow. In this episode, I explore what a Swedish flatmate, living in Italy, and years of coaching have taught me about fitting in versus standing out, and why it matters for anyone working across cultures.

Read the article.

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I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun.

As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and joy. A few things I love: wandering European streets in search of the best vegetarian meal, practicing Italian, and helping my clients design lives that feel rich and meaningful.

If you want to become a more calm, confident communicator at work and in your personal life – let’s talk.

Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot?

I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respond with clarity, whether you’re in a meeting or just talking with friends.

Download it at sarahmikutel.com/blanknomore and start feeling more confident in your conversations today.

Turns out there’s not just one way to listen – there are four, at least according to the authors of Adaptive Listening: How to Cultivate Trust and Traction at Work.

In this episode, I share when to use each level of listening, plus the question you should always ask yourself before opening your mouth.

Read the article.

Read Adaptive Listening.

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I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach. My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun.

As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and joy. A few things I love: wandering European streets in search of the best vegetarian meal, practicing Italian, and helping my clients design lives that feel rich and meaningful.

If you want to become a more calm, confident communicator at work and in your personal life – let’s talk.

Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot?

I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respond with clarity, whether you’re in a meeting or just talking with friends.

Download it at sarahmikutel.com/blanknomore and start feeling more confident in your conversations today.