Culture Matters: Taking Ownership of Culture

Why I read it?

I chose to read Culture Matters because I genuinely enjoy learning about culture – especially seeing what others have done well and where they’ve fallen short. It’s an area I’m always trying to grow in, and I value hearing different perspectives and ideas I can apply. I also read this as part of a mini book club, which made it even more engaging and fun to discuss how the concepts showed up in our own experiences and where we saw opportunities to implement them.

What is it all about?

At its core, Culture Matters is about the reality that culture does not happen by accident – it is either created intentionally or allowed to drift. Jenni Catron outlines how leaders must take ownership of culture by clearly defining values, modeling behaviors, and building systems that reinforce both.

The book emphasizes that culture is not what you say, but what you tolerate, celebrate, and repeat. It breaks down culture into tangible components – vision, values, behaviors, and systems – and challenges leaders to align all four so the organization operates with consistency and clarity.

What caused me to pause?

There were a few moments, but one that stuck with me was the idea that culture is shaped more by what you allow than what you say. It’s easy to think you’ve clearly defined expectations, but if behaviors don’t align and nothing is addressed, that becomes the real culture.

How will this book change my habits or influence me?

It didn’t necessarily change my direction as much as it sharpened my focus. It reinforced how culture is built and sustained in everyday moments – not just through big initiatives – and reminded me that culture isn’t something you set and forget, but something that requires consistent, intentional attention.

Add this to your reading list if…

You’re in any kind of leadership role, working to define or elevate your organization’s culture, or looking for a practical, straightforward approach without unnecessary complexity.

Pickle Rating: I would give this book a 4 out of 5! It’s practical, actionable, and highly relevant for leaders. While some concepts may feel familiar, the strength of the book is in its clarity and reinforcement of what actually drives culture day-to-day. It’s a strong reminder that culture isn’t built in big moments – it’s built in consistent ones.