In this episode of The Digital Forge, David Richards MBE sits down with Louisa Harrison-Walker OBE, Chief Executive of the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Louisa speaks with rare honesty about reaching breaking point after the death of a close friend, the mental health struggles that followed, and how time away helped her reset her life, her leadership, and her priorities.
From that deeply personal story comes a powerful conversation about resilience, vulnerability in leadership, and her vision for Sheffield as it redefines its identity for a new industrial age.
This episode explores:
• Burnout, grief, and the courage to be open about mental health.
• Why self-care isn’t selfish and how it can transform organisations.
• The Chamber’s role in helping Sheffield’s entrepreneurs and businesses succeed.
• Why Sheffield can lead in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and inclusive growth.
A candid, emotional, and inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and building a city where everyone can thrive.

Host David Richards sits down with Adam Pollock to explore his journey from barrister and private investigator to broker and investment banker. Adam breaks down what investment banking is really about, why the UK doesn’t lack money but needs to allocate it better, and how pensions and the EIS scheme fit into the picture. He also shines a spotlight on the talent and innovative businesses thriving in Sheffield — and shares his thoughts on how smarter investment could fuel growth across the UK economy.