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.
What We Learned, What We're Keeping & What's Next (Season 2 / Episode 1)
Before we dive into season two, Nicky takes a moment to reflect on what season one of Heart and Graft taught her, and what those lessons mean for the podcast going forward.
From the assumptions we make about ourselves, other people and what's “normal” at work, to the surprising power of small acts of care, this is a look back at some of the ideas and stories that stayed with her.
Nicky also explores why she's embracing simplicity, leaning further into the stories behind the research, and introducing a new reflective ending to future episodes.
Plus, there's a little challenge for you: invest five minutes, once a week, with a pen, a notebook and a cuppa, and ask yourself: What has happened lately that you want to remember, and why?
Look out for the first full episodes of season two, with more stories, more human stuff, and a little more breathing room between episodes.
1 Jul 2026
Heart and Graft (Episode 26): The Secret Condition that Shape Learning at Work
In this episode of Heart and Graft, Nicky is sharing the ideas that shaped years of designing and delivering workplace learning. We often talk about training as if it’s the same thing as learning, but in reality, they’re not quite the same, and if we want learning to last, we need to create the right conditions for it to happen.
Drawing on her own experience as a trainer, facilitator and learner, Nicky explores what helps adults engage, remember, and apply new ideas at work. From relevance and repetition to curiosity, safety and a little bit of fun, this episode is all about the practical ingredients that make learning more likely to stick.
Why listen
Hear why training and learning are not the same thing.
Learn the practical conditions that help adults feel safe enough to engage.
Discover why relevance, repetition and enjoyment matter so much in workplace learning.
Get ideas you can use if you train, facilitate, coach, or support learning at work.
Hear real stories from years of designing learning that people actually remembered and used.
Sign up to The Monthly Graft e-news community for additional content, including dealing with 'anticipatory grief' at work.
17 Jun 2026
Heart & Graft (Episode 25): The Hidden Problem with Praise at Work & How To Fix It
In this episode of Heart and Graft, Nicky explores the psychology of affirmations through the lens of motivational interviewing (MI). Drawing on neuroscience, workplace experience, and personal stories, this episode unpacks the difference between saying “thank you”, giving praise, and offering meaningful affirmations that build self-efficacy, and intrinsic motivation. Along the way, Nicky explores: why some feedback disappears into a “black hole”; how well-intentioned managers might being creating 'praise addicts', and how to use affirmations at work.
Why listen?
Learn the difference between praise, feedback and affirmations
Understand how motivation really works
Discover practical ways to build self-efficacy in others
Explore how affirmations contribute to psychological safety
Hear real-world examples you can immediately apply in leadership and workplace conversations
Sign up to The Monthly Graft e-news community for additional content, including dealing with 'anticipatory grief' at work.
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Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
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