Sheffield Digital Podcast

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 hype to explore what AI can genuinely do today, where it's already delivering value, and why the biggest challenges might have less to do with technology and more to do with people, data and decision-making.

Rather than taking an overly optimistic or pessimistic view, the conversation asks what a more mature discussion about AI should look like. From healthcare and software development to education, workplace culture and the future of jobs, Richard and Lorenzo examine where AI can help, where it falls short, and what organisations need to consider before jumping on the latest trend.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why "AI" has become an unhelpfully broad term and why we need to be more precise.
• Real-world examples of AI improving healthcare through better analysis of complex data.
• Why good data matters more than clever technology.
• The hidden costs of AI, including energy use, infrastructure and long-term commercial dependency.
• Where large language models genuinely save time and where they don't.
• The risks of relying on AI for business-critical decisions.
• Whether AI is really replacing entry-level jobs, or if the picture is more complicated.
• How businesses can adopt AI without losing sight of their actual objectives.
• Why critical thinking, creativity and human judgement remain essential skills.
• What young people need to thrive in an AI-enabled workplace.

Whether you're leading a business, working in tech, or simply trying to make sense of the rapid pace of AI development, this episode offers a balanced, practical perspective grounded in real-world experience.

Guests

Richard King is a product manager, business analyst and consultant working in healthcare. Having worked across defence, finance, education, security and the public sector, he brings a pragmatic perspective on how AI fits into modern software development and product management.

Lorenzo Gordon spent more than two decades building and leading a software development company before moving into digital transformation in the NHS. He now supports healthcare organisations, startups and SMEs across South Yorkshire, helping them adopt technology in ways that genuinely improve services and outcomes.

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Notes

This interview was recorded on 24th July 2026 at The University of Sheffield.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 discuss how AI is transforming the way software is built, why problem-solving and human skills are becoming more valuable than ever, and what this means for recruitment and career development.

They also explore the growing challenge of maintaining a talent pipeline for junior engineers, why authentic human communication still stands out in an AI-assisted world, and how Sheffield's AI community is creating space for people to learn, share ideas and navigate these changes together.

In this episode:

• Why AI is the biggest technological shift James has seen in 20 years of software engineering
• How Pendo is using AI beyond chatbots and large language models
• Why coding is just one part of a software engineer's job
• The changing skills employers are looking for in new recruits
• What AI means for junior developers and the future talent pipeline
• How AI is reshaping recruitment for employers and candidates alike
• Why Sheffield AI Meetup puts people first in conversations about AI
• The opportunities and risks of AI's next phase of development

Links

• Pendo: https://www.pendo.io/
• Sheffield AI Meetup: https://sheffield.ai
• Steel City AI Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/steel-city-ai/
• Sheffield Digital website: https://sheffield.digital/

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes

This interview was recorded on 23rd June 2026 at Pendo's Sheffield office, located in the Eagle Works building.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 affects them, drawing on findings from the national Public Voices in AI research. The campaign uses vertically scrolling webtoons, co-designed with members of the public in Sheffield, Morecambe, and Plymouth, to prompt accessible conversations about AI in the media, everyday life, and schools, including issues like deepfakes, scams, and disinformation. Success is defined as changing conversations and raising awareness, with resources at letstalkai.org.uk.

Susan was appointed as Lead for Human-centric AI for the University of Sheffield’s Centre for Machine Intelligence in June 2024. As AI and in/Equality Lead, she champions research, learning and engagement activity from across the university that raises awareness of AI’s role in society - for good and bad. Susan is a member of the All Party Parliamentary Group on AI, giving evidence in May 2026, and was a member of the UK Delegation to the International AI Impact Summit, Delhi in February 2026.

Links

Let’s Talk AI website

Sheffield Digital article on Let’s Talk AI

Talking AI campaign by Sheffield Digital

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes

This interview was recorded on 16th April 2026.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 attention rather than creativity or community.

The discussion is inspired in part by the article ‘We Need to Rewild the Internet’, which frames the web as an ecosystem in need of diversity and resilience. James reflects on his work in tech and conservation, unpacking themes of power, infrastructure, AI, and the loss of independent spaces online. From small practical changes individuals can make, to bigger systemic questions about ownership, ethics, and the future of AI, this episode sets the tone for the Talking AI series.

James Jefferies is a Sheffield-based software engineer with over a decade of experience working across web development, data, and digital infrastructure. Alongside his freelance work, he is a data engineer at Rewilding Britain, where he supports projects that track and scale nature recovery across the UK.

His career spans roles in sectors including finance, utilities, and government, as well as collaborations with organisations like the UK Parliament. James is particularly interested in how technology can empower people and communities, and how the systems we build, both digital and ecological, can be more resilient, open, and human-centred.

References

• The central article discussed in the episode, exploring how the internet has become increasingly centralised and how it might be reshaped into a more diverse, resilient ecosystem. We Need To Rewild The Internet, by Maria Farrell and Robin Berjon in noemamag.
• Rewilding Britain - the organisation where James works as a data engineer, supporting nature recovery projects across England, Scotland, and Wales.
• MozFest mentioned as an upcoming event exploring themes related to rewilding and the future of the internet.
• NVIDIA referenced in discussion about emerging AI technologies and industry direction.
• OpenAI referenced in relation to large language models and the broader AI ecosystem.

Links

Talking AI campaign by Sheffield Digital

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Notes and Links

This interview was recorded on Kinder Scout by Sarah Lister on 19th March 2026.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 and then succeeding after learning more and preparing better for interviews. She outlines transferable skills from earlier jobs including extensive customer service and call-centre experience and discusses career changes driven by lockdown.

Catherine also describes balancing work with caring responsibilities for her children, later returning to full-time work, and being widowed, which prompted a reassessment of her future. She chose digital work due to long-standing interest in computing and learning.

She reflects on being late-diagnosed neurodivergent and how neurodivergence affects her communication needs, and highlights Home Office support including a Workplace Adjustment Passport as a way to formalise needs, and initiatives such as a monthly Women in Tech forum and allyship workshops.

Catherine says she enjoys continual learning in digital, organising information and ideas, and feeling appreciated on her current team. Her advice to women who are neurodivergent and considering tech is to persevere through rejection sensitivity and imposter syndrome, seek coaching/mentoring and feedback, and to keep refining applications and interview skills.

Links

Home Office Careers: https://careers.homeoffice.gov.uk/

References

Home Office Digital

Manchester Digital

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Notes and Links

This interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister, Membership Coordinator at Sheffield Digital, on 30th January 2026.

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 shares his insights on mentoring T-Level students, the importance of industry placements, and his personal journey in the tech sector. He emphasises the significance of real-world experience for students, stating, “It's a way for us to provide the best opportunity possible for that next generation.”

At the end of the episode, Shani Clifford, Head of Student Employability at The Sheffield College, discusses the importance of T-levels, their difference from A-levels, and the positive impact these placements are making on students. She also highlights the support and opportunities provided to students and employers involved in the program.

Links

T-Levels at The Sheffield College website

Reach Studios website

The Sheffield College website

Tom King on LinkedIn

Shani Clifford on LinkedIn

Contacts

The Sheffield College - Work Related Activity Team

[email protected]

Recording information

The interview with Tom King was recorded on 20th August 2025. The interview with Shani Clifford was recorded on 21st May 2025.

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 develop strategies. 

Angel emphasises the value of resilience, curiosity, and a hands-on approach in her journey. She also touches on her experiences in sketching, the challenges and rewards of starting anew in a different industry, and her vision for the future of her consultancy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a major career change.

Angel has a background in Product Development, Project Management, User Experience, User Research, and Service Design, and favours analogue methods for digital problems, creating fun and engaging workshops for remarkable results. Before co-founding Dot & Dash Consulting, she led the development of innovative food products for major brands. With over 20 years as a consultant and a pivot to the digital sector, her vast experience in manufacturing, health, education, mobile gaming, betting, and design fuels her innovative ideas.

Angel holds certifications as an AI Design Sprint™ Facilitator, along with being a LEGO® Serious Play® method and materials facilitator, Scrum Master, and Design Sprint Facilitator. Additionally, she plays leadership and director roles in volunteer organisations.

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes and Links

This interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister on 28th May 2025.

Links

Dot & Dash Consulting - website

Dot & Dash Consulting - Sheffield Digital Company Spotlight 

Angel Takooree on LinkedIn

Did we miss something you’re looking for? Just get in touch and let us know. 

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 and meaningful support he’s received while working with the Home Office, and describes how being neurodiverse has positively impacted his career.

Subscribe to the podcast

If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Notes and Links

This interview was recorded online by Sarah Lister, Membership Coordinator at Sheffield Digital, on 5th June 2025. 

Links

Home Office Careers: https://careers.homeoffice.gov.uk/

References

Home Office Digital

University of East Anglia (UEA)

Did we miss something you’re looking for? Just get in touch and let us know. 

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can email [email protected]

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 event to include a diverse range of attendees and speakers. The selection process for talks involved an anonymised system to ensure fairness. They also highlight their motivations for organising the event and why they want to put Sheffield on the map for this type of event.

Amy is part-time Senior Software Engineer at Hive IT, and full-time Social Research student.

Katie is Senior Developer at the Financial Times. She’s a member of The Green Party, LGBTIQA+ Greens, and Greens for HS2. She loves cycling, fiddling with bikes, and also has a collection of synthesisers! She gave a talk at State of the Browser in 2024 about making the music of Daft Punk using a browser and a MIDI controller!

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Links

Front End North website

Front End Sheffield Meetup website

Front End North on LinkedIn

Front End Sheffield on LinkedIn

Front End North on Bluesky

Front End Sheffield on Bluesky

Front End North on Mastodon

Katie Fenn on LinkedIn

Amy Benson on LinkedIn

References

Hive IT

All Day Hey!

ffconf

State of the Browser

Pixel Pioneers

Make Do

Dave Letorey

Other Front End North Conference organisers

Ian Parr

Lee Moody

Tom Heaton

Did we miss something you’re looking for? Just get in touch and let us know. 

Contact Front End North

[email protected]

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to get your feedback on the podcast. You can share your thoughts with us on the channel in the Sheffield Digital Slack community or email [email protected].

Thank you for the music

Thanks to Alex Mclean – aka Yaxu – for the show’s intro music, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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 changes, and what is still to be done.

Note: Sorry for the low quality sound at the start of this episode. It improves after the first 10 minutes.

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If you’d like to have new episodes of the show appear right in your podcast player, you can subscribe via our page on Apple Podcasts and follow the show on Spotify, or search for us in your podcast app of choice!

Links

Sheffield Digital

Chris Dymond 

Mel Kanarek

About Sheffield Digital

References

Tech Nation

Sheffield Digital Showcase

Sheffield Digital Slack

GeekBrekky

Newsletter

Join the conversation

We’re really keen to hear your most memorable moments, and the biggest achievements and changes you’ve seen in the community and city over the last ten years. You can share your thoughts with us on the channel in the Sheffield Digital Slack community or email [email protected].