Claim OwnershipHeart & Graft
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Bring your whole self to work—because being human is your greatest asset. Heart and Graft is the podcast for people who care about people and want to bring humanity into their workplace. In each episode, we dive into the ups and downs of life at work, from giving authentic feedback and facing imposter syndrome to riding the waves of change. Perfect for L&D, HR, and coaching professionals, as well as managers, leaders, and anyone passionate about creating workplaces where people can truly be themselves. Through interviews, deep dives, and conversations, we'll help your workplace become not just more productive, but more personal. Tune in to join a tribe of people who embrace every quirk, strength, and flaw; and thrive - all by being unapologetically human at work.
18 Episodes
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Uncover the realities of unpaid carers juggling jobs and family care in this heartfelt Heart and Graft episode with advocate Charlie Beswick. Hear her journey raising son Harry, born with a rare condition, and her push for workplaces to see carers' resilience, empathy, and loyalty as assets—not burdens. Essential listening for HR leaders and anyone fostering human-focused teams.
Why listen?
Unlock carers' superpowers like pivoting, reading rooms, and crisis management that boost team morale.
Understand how to be a great colleague to co-workers with caring responsibilities.
The simple but valued things workplaces can do to help, and steps carers can take to get their needs met.
Learn more about Charlie's work via her website: Our Altered Life
When life (or germ season) blows up your beautifully crafted plans, how do you pivot without losing your sanity or your sense of self? In this solo episode of Heart and Graft, Nicky turns a last‑minute cancellation into an honest exploration of what it really feels like when Plan A falls apart – and how SCAMPER can help you find your way to Plan B, C or Z.
From delayed trains and missing projector cables, to those 4 p.m. “rug-pull” moments that leave you frozen one minute and flooded with 47 half-formed ideas the next. Along the way, Nicky introduces SCAMPER – a simple, seven‑prompt creativity tool – and shows how it can support human workplace pivots, whether you’re a manager, HR, coach, or just someone whose week has imploded.
Why listen:
Get a practical, easy-to-steal SCAMPER framework you can use for any “oh no, now what?” moment at work.
Learn the “freeze, flood, friend” pattern and why borrowing someone else’s calm brain can be a game-changer.
Hear real-life pivot stories that make creativity feel human, messy and totally doable (no perfection required).
Reflect on how identity and values shape which pivots feel tiny and which feel seismic.
Public sector veteran and coach Sarah Clein joins Nicky to unpack the "death by a thousand cuts" slide into burnout—fueled by workload surges, boundary bleed, and midlife squeezes like menopause and family stress. Drawing from her own cliff-edge exhaustion and book The Midlife Trenches, Sarah shares how to say "no," tune into somatic signals, and prioritise joy over endless rescuing.
Why Listen?
Gain actionable tips to reclaim personal vitality, support colleagues kindly, and foster human-centered workplaces.
Hear real stories of jet-lagged denial, skipped medicals, and "Terminator" armor—plus antidotes like tiny "nos" and duck-feeding simplicity.
Perfect for HR, L&D pros, coaches, and midlife leaders battling chronic stress; rediscover zest before it's "is this it?"
Find out more about Sarah by visiting her website.
Have you ever snapped at a colleague like a grumpy teen—or noticed how your behavour changes when work pressures ramp up? In this Heart & Graft episode, Nicky cracks open two theories from Transactional Analysis (TA) with stories from her TA101 epiphany to her Dad's paint critique.
Why listen:
Get to grips with the inner parent, adult and child in you.
Make more conscious decisions about when and why to operate from different mindsets
Demystify reactive behaviours to curb burnout and miscommunications
Spot your dominant drivers under stress (we all have them!) and soften them for kinder self-reflection.
Grab your 'special glasses'—because work's messy, but TA makes it human."
In this episode of Heart & Graft, Nicky is back in the virtual coffee shop with Mia Shepherd of Neupauer Training and Joel Fielder of Switchplane to talk about productivity without turning into a robot. They discuss why endless to-do lists and self-sabotage leave people feeling busy but unfulfilled, and how reframing productivity around value, boundaries and energy can change the way you work. From parenting and PhDs to software sprints and the “beanie hat of concentration”, this is a very human look at getting important work done without losing yourself.
Why listen
To rethink productivity from “How many tasks did I finish?” to “What progress did I make towards what really matters?”.
To hear practical ideas like time boxing, 25‑minute sprints, planning, and visual “do not disturb” signals.
To explore how impostor syndrome, perfectionism and emotional hijacks quietly derail your day – and what you can actually do about them.
To learn how deadlines, accountability and tiny increments of progress can work with your personality instead of against it.
In this episode of Heart and Graft, Nicky explores whether virtual and hybrid teams can ever feel as kind, connected and compassionate as working in the same room. Drawing on conversations with digital learning specialist and mindfulness teacher Alison Potter, and coach Sara Knight, the episode unpacks the benefits of online work, the three practical challenges, and the mindset shift that lets humanity “vibrate through” the screen.
You will hear stories of online sessions that began as a “car crash” and evolved into confident, interactive spaces, research on teaching compassion virtually, and a powerful account of how being at home helped a client open up about burnout in ways they might never have done face to face. Nicky distils their insights into practical tips for anyone leading virtual teams or online sessions.
Why listen
To understand the real benefits and pitfalls of virtual working, beyond the usual productivity headlines.
To hear evidence and lived experience on whether psychological safety and trust can genuinely flourish online.
To learn concrete practices for making your virtual meetings and teams feel more human, compassionate and inclusive. As well as, ideas for handling Zoom fatigue, tech wobblies and emotional conversations when you are not in the same room.
You can connect with Alison on LinkedIn and with Sara on LinkedIn or via her website.
Imposter feelings are not a personal flaw, they are often the price of caring deeply and learning. In this episode of Heart and Graft, Nicky explores why so many thoughtful, conscientious professionals secretly feel like frauds and what leaders and teams can do to turn down the volume on that inner critic. We explore the origins of Imposter Phenomenon, and how some organisations are helping to combat it.
Why listen:
To normalize imposter feelings.
To collect playful but powerful practices (like “failure cakes”) you can adapt for your own workplace.
To learn a simple mindset tool you can use yourself or when coaching others to challenge harsh self-talk.
Ready to hit the fast lane to better workplace communication? In this solo episode, Nicky takes you on a playful journey across the Social Styles landscape. Through a vivid road-trip story, discover why understanding—and flexing—your style is the key to thriving teams and smoother days at work. Whether you’re a Driver, Amiable, Analytical, or Expressive (or just confused), tune in for insights, and tips on crossing the communication finish line together.
Why Listen?
Learn a memorable framework for understanding the different preferences we have when we communicate.
Pick up practical strategies to adapt your style, build rapport, and cut down on workplace friction.
Relatable analogies make theory stick.
Be inspired by a fun "flex your style" challenge you can try this week.
This special bonus episode for World Kindness Day explores the transformative power of kindness at work with Georgina Klovig Skelton, Director of Kindness at o3e, a Brighton-based team-building company. From creative corporate events centred on charity—the bike builds, care packs, and adapted sports gear—to everyday gestures like making tea and checking in on colleagues, Georgina’s stories illuminate how kindness fosters real connection and positive organisational change. The conversation weaves practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and reflections on culture, recognition, and resilience.
Why Listen?
Gain ideas for embedding kindness into team culture, from workplace rituals to charity-driven events.
Hear real-life examples showing how small acts of care and recognition spark greater trust, cooperation, and resilience at work.
Leave inspired by easy, actionable ways to “just do it,” embracing kindness daily for bigger impacts.
This episode of Heart & Graft delves deep into neurodivergence in the workplace, featuring a candid conversation with autism consultant Laura Crowley, who shares her personal journey and over 25 years of professional experience. Together, we unpack some of the myths around autism, discuss practical low-cost adjustments for neurodivergent colleagues, and highlight the importance of universal design and neuro-affirmative practices in organizational culture.
Why Listen?
Discover the lived experience behind late autism identification and “auti birthday” celebrations.
Learn how teams and managers can foster acceptance for neurodivergent staff.
Get actionable tips on simple accommodations—flexible hours, headphones, and clear communication—that benefit everyone.
Explore how perimenopause links with neurodivergent traits and why more women are seeking autism and ADHD assessments later in life.
alt titles: The good, the awkward and the the specific, Praise Addicts Anonymous,
Ever wondered why workplace praise feels so awkward to receive, even though we crave it? Join Nicky in this candid café-style conversation with Joel Fielder and Mia Shepherd as they unpack the complex psychology of positive feedback at work. They discuss why generic "great job" comments disappear into thin air, explore the difference between praise and affirmations, and share their views on giving feedback that actually lands. From emotional bank accounts to creating "praise addicts," discover what makes recognition meaningful and sustainable.
Why Listen:
Learn the crucial difference between praise and affirmations – and why one creates dependency while the other builds lasting confidence.
Understand the "emotional bank account" concept and how positive recognition helps teams admit mistakes faster and work more collaboratively.
Explore workplace feedback systems – from digital platforms to peer recognition tools.
Hear honest personal stories about the awkwardness of receiving compliments, creating praise notebooks, and transforming from managers who think "you get paid to be here" to leaders who build thriving teams
In this episode of Heart and Graft, the very human experience of coping with organizational change takes center stage. Change is inevitable in the workplace, yet it brings a complex roller coaster of emotions—from shock and denial to acceptance and problem-solving. Join your host Nicky McCrudden as she unpacks the emotional journey of her own career change, reveals the psychological hungers that shape our reactions, and explores common thinking traps that keep us stuck. Whether you're navigating change yourself or supporting others through it, this episode offers practical insights, compassionate perspectives, and relatable stories to help you embrace change with resilience.
Why Listen?
Understand the emotional stages of navigating organizational change through the metaphor of the change curve as a roller coaster.
Learn why change can feel so difficult and how basic human needs influence our reactions.
Discover common thinking patterns that keep us stuck in painful cycles and practical ways to break free.
Gain insights for managers, HR, coaches, and employees on supporting oneself and others during times of transition.
This creative and insightful approach combines psychology, storytelling, and workplace wisdom to help listeners become more human and more resilient through change
In this episode of Heart and Graft, host Nicky McCrudden teams up with AI thought-leader and project management expert Emanuela Giangregorio to examine what being truly human at work means as AI becomes our new team member. From project status reports to mentorship moments, discover how collaboration between people and algorithms can free us to focus on what really matters: being human. With playful anecdotes and actionable advice, this episode will leave listeners inspired—and (hopefully) a little more optimistic about the digital future.
Why Listen
Insights on how AI can free up valuable time for genuine human connection at work.
Practical advice for anyone wondering how to keep their career future-proof in the age of automation.
Actionable strategies for upskilling and adapting, regardless of your role or learning style.
A soulful reminder of the enduring power of how we make others feel—AI can crunch the numbers, but only humans can craft connection.
Connect with Emanuela on LinkedIn, or view her books on Amazon.
Join host Nicky McCrudden for a solo exploration of empathy in the workplace on Heart and Graft. Through moving personal stories and the latest scientific insights, Nicky unpacks the good, the bad, and the risky sides of empathy—including how caring deeply can drive connection, but also lead to burnout or bias. The episode offers practical, evidence-based strategies for spotting and managing emotions, setting boundaries, and building healthier, more resilient teams.
Why Listen?
Get inspired by Nicky's warmth, honesty, and her blend of research and real-world stories. Discover how empathy truly works, why it matters for team success, and how to practice it wisely. Learn how unchecked empathy can lead to pitfalls and takeaway practical tactics for better empathy.
This episode frames empathy as a powerful, sometimes risky tool for building resilient, thriving workplaces—offering listeners research-backed insight, practical approaches, and heartfelt inspiration for being more authentically human at work.
Join host Nicky McCrudden and psychologist-trainer Damian Fearns for a candid exploration of difficult conversations at work in this episode of "Heart and Graft". Drawing on decades of coaching and organisational psychology experience, Damian unpacks why these talks are so often avoided and shares concrete tips for addressing—and recovering from—challenging feedback exchanges.
Why Listen?
Discover relatable advice for giving and receiving feedback, preparing for tough talks, and building more resilient, trusting relationships—whether with managers, peers, or teams. Learn psychological strategies to create psychological safety, transforming feedback from a source of tension into an opportunity for real growth.
This episode reframes difficult conversations as keys to stronger teams and lasting workplace bonds, offering listeners actionable approaches and inspirational insights for being more authentically human at work.
Explore the hidden dynamics of digital incivility in workplace communication as host Nicky McCrudden interviews occupational psychology PhD researcher Marc Fullman. In this episode of Heart and Graft, listeners gain a clear, research-based understanding of what incivility online looks like in the workplace—whether through curt e-mails, ambiguous Teams messages, or overlooked pleasantries—and why even low-level rudeness can erode wellbeing and drive disengagement.
Why Listen?
Learn how social norms differ across e-mail, Teams, and Slack, and discover practical steps managers and teams can take to prevent, address, and reduce the unintended harm of passive or active digital incivility. Hear relatable tips for sending kinder messages, diffusing tension, and recognising when communication styles—or missing details—might be undermining trust.
With real examples, actionable advice, and insights on training interventions, this episode sheds light on why civility matters and how a moment’s pause before hitting ‘send’ can make workplaces
Discover what truly makes a team compassionate in this solo episode of Heart and Graft with host Nicky McCrudden. Drawing from a standout study by Jacobus Lilius et al., Nicky explores seven simple, actionable everyday practices that set exceptional teams apart—spanning recognition, candid conversations, playful rituals, and collective support. Whether designing training, nurturing workplace wellbeing, or simply striving to be a kinder colleague, listeners will find research-backed insights and real stories to spark positive change.
Why Listen?
Gain fresh evidence and vivid examples of how small daily actions can drive both compassion and high performance in teams. Hear relatable anecdotes and practical takeaways for fostering genuine care and resilience, whatever your role or sector.
Tune in to understand how noticing, celebrating, and helping become the building blocks of a thriving team culture—where compassion is both a norm and a business advantage
Join host Nicky McCrudden for the introductory episode of Heart and Graft, a new podcast celebrating humanity at work. With warmth and honesty, Nicky shares her own journey—from childhood aspirations and a career in training to her current research on compassion in organisations. This episode sets the tone for a series that promises real stories, evidence-based discussion, and practical ideas for building workplaces where people lift each other up, embrace mistakes, and celebrate successes.
Why Listen?
Discover the guiding vision behind Heart and Graft —a podcast designed to support anyone seeking more kindness and authenticity in their workplace. With previews of upcoming topics like empathy, digital civility, and difficult conversations, this episode invites listeners to join a growing community focused on creating workplaces where people truly thrive.
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