Fluent in Awkward: Navigating Culture Like a Pro with Csenge Fazekas
Description
Ready to decode the unspoken rules of global communication... and maybe finally understand what “we’ll see” really means?
Meet Csenge Fazekas, intercultural trainer and founder of Cultural Origami, who helps expats, teams, and curious humans navigate the glorious (and sometimes totally confusing) mess of culture clashes, communication breakdowns, and time zone tangles. From her Hungarian roots to life in Spain—with a stopover in multicultural Belgium—Csenge’s story is all about embracing difference, asking better questions, and learning how not to take things so personally.
In this episode, we dive deep into cultural values, dinner party timing disasters (looking at you, Cairo), and the silent codes that shape how we connect, critique, and celebrate each other. Whether you’ve moved countries or just married someone from a different zip code, this one will have you nodding, laughing, and rethinking your RSVP strategy.
Key Takeaways:
🌍 Direct doesn’t mean rude – Understanding communication styles can save your feelings and your friendships.
🌍 Time is not universal – 8PM in Spain? That means 10. Maybe.
🌍 Culture is everywhere – You don’t need a passport to have a culture clash; it can happen at your own dinner table.
🌍 Don’t assume. Ask. – Csenge’s golden rule: curiosity is the ultimate cultural superpower.
🌍 And yes, we talk dessert – Because who doesn’t want to know what creamy-chocolatey treat wins in Madrid?
If you’ve ever felt lost in translation—or just want to understand people better—this episode is your permission slip to get it wrong, learn out loud, and laugh your way through the mess. Hit play and join the convo with Csenge Fazekas.
Want to work with Csenge or learn more about Cultural Origami?
Head over to fearlessandflawed.com for all the links, guest details, and ways to connect.
We’ve got everything waiting for you in the show notes!