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.

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.

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.

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?

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?

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?

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.

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.