Welcome to the Sheffield Digital Podcast. This is the place to hear about the exciting digital industries in the Sheffield City Region. We cover engaging topics about the local tech sector with special guests from a thriving community of companies, accelerators, policy-makers, educators, freelancers, events organisers, and more! If you’re interested in unique tech career stories straight from Sheffield, then check out our interviews with people who share the why’s and the how’s of what they do.…
How do we cut through the hype and the gloom to really understand the potential impacts of AI? In this episode of Talking AI, Mel Kanarek is joined by Richard King, who is a product manager at a software consultancy, currently working in the healthcare sector, and Lorenzo Gordon who is a former software company founder and digital transformation leader in the NHS. Together they cut through the…
Artificial intelligence is changing software engineering faster than almost any previous technology shift - but what does that mean for developers, employers and the next generation entering the industry? In this episode of the Sheffield Digital Podcast, Mel Kanarek is joined by James Charlesworth, Director of Engineering at Pendo's Sheffield office and organiser of Sheffield AI Meetup. They…
In this second episode of our Talking AI series, host Mel Kanarek speaks with Dr. Susan Oman from The University of Sheffield, Centre for Machine Intelligence, about the public-facing Let’s Talk AI awareness campaign seen on Sheffield bus shelters in March and April 2026. Susan explains that many people are already talking about AI but lack clarity about what it is, when it is used, and how it…
In this first episode of our Talking AI series, host Sarah Lister is joined by James Jefferies for a conversation recorded on Kinder Scout in the Peak District. Together, they explore the idea of “rewilding” beyond landscapes and into our digital lives, drawing parallels between ecological restoration and the way today’s internet has become increasingly centralised, controlled, and optimised for…
In this episode we interview Catherine who is a Content Designer in the Automation Centre at the Home Office. She works within a user-centred design team supporting multiple projects aimed at automating processes to make life easier for Home Office staff. She describes how her brother, a developer, introduced her to content design and how she applied twice for a role, being rejected the first time…
This episode of the Sheffield Digital Podcast discusses the benefits and value of hosting work placements as part of The Sheffield College's T-Levels program. The discussions highlight how these placements help bridge the gap between education and the workforce, preparing students for future careers while also benefiting local businesses by nurturing homegrown talent. Tom King from Reach Studios…
Angel shares her unconventional career path, transitioning from over 20 years in the food industry to the tech world and eventually founding her own consultancy. She discusses the inspiration behind her career change, the importance of continual learning, and her expertise in using playful methodologies like LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and AI Design Sprints™ to help organizations navigate change and…
In this episode, we interview Kieran, a Senior Product Manager from the Home Office's Police and Public Protection Technology portfolio. Kieran discusses his role in managing the product lifecycle, his career journey from university to the Home Office, and the diverse skill set required for his job. Kieran also shares his experiences as an LGBTQ+ professional, highlighting the inclusive culture…
Katie Fenn and Amy Benson, organisers of Front End North, discuss their involvement in the Sheffield tech community and the upcoming Front End North conference. Scheduled for 10th July 2025 at Sheffield Hallam University, the event will feature eight talks covering a range of topics including design, software development, and accessibility. They emphasise the importance of an accessible, low-cost…
In this episode you’ll find out why Sheffield Digital was set up ten years ago, what has happened over the years, and what the future holds. Mel and Chris, two of the Co-founders and Directors, return to the podcast to celebrate ten years of Sheffield Digital. They discuss whether their initial expectations for Sheffield Digital have been met, most memorable moments, biggest achievements and…