Building an Intentional Culture That Drives Performance
Company culture doesn’t happen by accident — and when it’s done right, it can transform everything from employee engagement to business performance.
In this episode, host Katie Richards sits down with Al Curnow, Vice President of CultureWise, to explore why culture matters, how leaders can shape it intentionally, and what consistent reinforcement looks like in practice.
Drawing on real-world examples from MHEDA member companies, Al shares how clearly defined behaviors, weekly rituals, and shared language can help organizations build strong foundations that support growth, retention, and leadership development — even during challenging times.
Whether you’re just beginning to think about culture or looking to strengthen what’s already in place, this conversation offers practical insights and a refreshingly simple approach to creating a workplace where people — and businesses — thrive.
Key Topics Discussed
- Why culture exists in every organization — whether it’s intentional or not
- How defining clear, behavior-based expectations creates shared language and alignment
- Simple ways leaders can reinforce culture without adding extra meetings or complexity
- Real success stories from MHEDA member companies using CultureWise
- How strong cultures support retention, leadership development, and long-term growth
About Al Curnow
Al Curnow is the Vice President of CultureWise and works with organizations around the world to help leaders intentionally design, drive, and sustain high-performing cultures. With more than a decade of experience and hundreds of client partnerships, Al specializes in translating values into everyday behaviors that improve performance, engagement, and accountability.


