Phuel Conversations

Experiential Learning and Why Engagement Fuels Lasting Impact

Nathy Gaffney, Dean Gale, Andrew Thomas — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:54:37 +0000

In this episode of Phuel Conversations, Nathy Gaffney is joined by Andrew Thomas (CEO, Eagle’s Flight Asia Pacific) and Dean Gale (Co-Owner, Phuel) to explore the power of experiential learning.

Together, they unpack why learning sticks best when it’s immersive, engaging and hands-on, and challenge the idea that training needs to be traditional to be effective. From real-world stories to practical insights, they reveal how high-energy experiences drive meaningful behaviour change, strengthen teams and create lasting impact.

If you’ve ever wondered how to move beyond 'tick-the-box' training and create learning that truly lands, this conversation is for you.

Building Cultures That Thrive: Insights from over 20 Years at Phuel

Nathy Gaffney, Jo Pollard, Dean Gale — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this candid episode of Phuel Conversations, Nathy Gaffney is joined by Phuel co-owners Jo Pollard and Dean Gale to unpack two decades of lessons in leadership, culture and learning. Together, they share practical insights for HR and TA leaders on building engaging workplace experiences, creating cultures where people thrive and future-proofing talent in a rapidly changing world. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what makes learning truly stick.

Mind & Machine: AI Part 4 - Ethics, Trust & the Human Element

Jake James, Nathy Gaffney — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In the final episode of the Phuel Conversations Mind and Machine mini-series, Nathy Gaffney and Jake James tackle the critical intersection of AI and leadership. They explore how leaders can navigate ethical challenges, build trust through transparency and keep empathy and fairness at the core of AI-driven decision-making. Tune in for insights on human-centred AI, balancing data with human judgment and the evolving role of leadership in an AI-powered workplace.

Mind & Machine: AI Part 3 - The AI-Augmented Workforce: Redefining Roles & Skills

Nathy Gaffney, Jake James — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Phuel Conversations Mind & Machine Series, Nathy Gaffney and Jake James explore how AI is transforming the workplace, not by replacing humans, but by enhancing our skills and creativity. From redefining roles and shifting tasks to reskilling and cultivating AI champions, they discuss the critical skills leaders and teams need to thrive in an AI-augmented world. Tune in for practical insights on balancing human expertise with AI capabilities and preparing your workforce for the future.

The Art of Facilitation – Behind the Curtain at Conferences

Dean Gale, Nathy Gaffney — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

In this candid episode of Phuel Conversations, host Nathy Gaffney chats with Phuel Co-Founder and master facilitator Dean Gale about what it really takes to hold a room at high-impact conferences. From preparation and audience connection to handling curveballs, Dean shares stories, lessons, and the energy behind making events truly memorable. Whether you’re onstage, planning a conference, or curious about the craft, this is a rare behind-the-scenes look at great facilitation.

Leading Through Change: Agility, AI & The Human Element

Andrew Webster, Jo Pollard, Nathy Gaffney — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Phuel Conversations, host Nathy Gaffney chats with Phuel Co-Founder Jo Pollard and Andrew Webster, VP of Organisational Innovation at ExperiencePoint, about what it takes to lead in times of rapid change. They discuss the forces driving transformation, from AI to shifting workplace expectations and share strategies for building resilience, fostering agility and keeping people at the centre of change. Packed with insights and real-world examples, it’s a must-listen for leaders looking to turn disruption into opportunity.

Graduate Programs: Unlocking Future Potential

Amanda Hall, Nathy Gaffney, Jake James — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Phuel Conversations, host Nathy Gaffney sits down with Phuel experts Jake James and Amanda Hall to unpack the true value of graduate development programs. They explore how these programs build strong talent pipelines, spark innovation, and boost engagement, while also bridging generational gaps and bringing fresh perspectives into organisations. Along the way, they share practical tips, real-world examples, and personal insights for both businesses looking to enhance their graduate programs and emerging professionals wanting to make the most of these opportunities.

Mind and Machine: AI Part 2 - Learning AI in 10 Hours

Nathy Gaffney, Jake James — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode 2 of our AI series, Mind & Machine, Nathy Gaffney and Jake James unpack why AI literacy is a must-have for modern leaders. They explore the “10-Hour Rule” as a low-barrier entry point for building AI fluency and introduce practical tools like the PB&J prompt-writing experiment and the CAGE framework. Whether you're hesitant or curious, this episode offers hands-on tips to help you start experimenting confidently with generative AI, no technical background needed.

Connect with Jake James and the team at Phuel

Presence with Purpose: The Power of Personal Brand at Work

Nathy Gaffney — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +0000

You already have a personal brand, so what’s it saying? In this episode of Phuel Conversations, we explore how to understand, develop and own your brand in a way that aligns with your career goals and values. With real-world examples, honest reflections and plenty of practical tips, we’ll show you how to define your value, show up with purpose and create brand impact that’s felt in the room, even when you’re not. It’s raw, relatable and all about helping you own your space.

Connect with Nathy Gaffney and the team at Phuel

Mind and Machine: AI Part 1 - Adapting to AI: Skills, Shifts and Staying Ahead

Jake James, Nathy Gaffney, Phuel — Mon, 26 May 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Phuel Conversations 'AI series'. We kick off the series by diving into the now of AI, what it means for your business, your people and your future. In this episode, Nathy Gaffney and innovation expert Jake James unpack the rapid evolution of AI in the workplace, why leaders must embrace it, and how to foster a culture of curiosity in the face of rapid change. From the Half-Life of Skills to Amara’s Law and the “AI wars” between tech giants, this episode explores the reality behind the hype and what smart leaders are doing to keep up.

Connect with

Jake James

and the team at

Phuel

The Power of Urgent Optimism in Leadership & Change

Meaghan Archunde — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Phuel Conversations, we explore the power of urgent optimism, what it is, why it matters, and how leaders can use it to drive meaningful change. From real-world examples to actionable strategies, we unpack how fostering this mindset can boost motivation, productivity, and resilience in organisations. Tune in for insights, personal reflections, and practical advice on making optimism a force for transformation.

Connect with Meaghan Archunde and the team at Phuel

Culture Code: Cracking the Secret to Thriving Workplaces

Jo Pollard, Karl Treacher — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:55:44 +0000

Workplace culture isn’t just a concept, it’s the foundation of every thriving organisation. In this episode, we sit down with Associate Professor Karl Treacher of The Culture Institute to explore what truly defines a great culture, the biggest challenges businesses face, and why investing in culture is more than just a ‘nice-to-have.’ From the impact of leadership to the rise of AI and shifting workforce dynamics, we uncover what it takes to build, measure, and sustain a culture that drives success.

Connect with Jo Pollard and the team at Phuel
Connect with Associate Professor Karl Treacher and The Culture Institute