From Slack wars to leadership transparency, here’s how to make hybrid work… well, work.
In this episode, I’m chatting with Rory Brimmer, Director at Turo UK, about what it really takes to create a culture that doesn’t suck in a hybrid work environment. Rory’s journey is wild—from turning down a Big Four gig (mid-interview, no less) to jumping headfirst into startup life at Turo. Spoiler: it worked out.
We talk about why culture matters (like, really matters), how to build trust when half the team is remote, and the sneaky ways burnout creeps in when you’re leading from your kitchen table. Rory also spills on a brilliant idea called the “Great Debate,” where even interns bring game-changing ideas to the table.
If you’ve ever felt like hybrid work is a constant battle between flexibility and connection, this one’s for you. It’s equal parts relatable and packed with takeaways you can steal for your team.
Here’s What We Get Into:
[5:28] Productivity Peaks – Why your 11pm “power hour” is valid and how to build schedules that actually work for humans.
[10:17] Office vs. WFH – The real talk on why fully remote isn’t always the dream (but also why commutes suck).
[17:27] Culture That Doesn’t Feel Forced – What makes people want to stay, even when there’s no free lunch in sight.
[24:05] Transparency = Trust – How being radically open with your team (yes, even about the budget) changes everything.
[33:52] Leap of Faith – Rory’s mic-drop moment in a Big Four interview and why startups turned out to be the perfect chaos for him.
[42:57] The “Great Debate” Hack – The fun team ritual that brings unlikely ideas (and healthy conflict) to the surface.
[50:08] Protecting Your Energy – Why being “always on” is overrated and how to block time like a pro leader.
It’s the perfect mix of practical tips, good vibes, and some solid perspective shifts on how to lead in a way that feels good—not draining.
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