We’re a London-based podcast uncovering the real stories behind the world of business.
Through honest conversations with professionals across London and Europe, we go beyond surface-level commentary to share unfiltered insights about work, growth, and purpose.

Our episodes explore:

Inside the Firms – the culture, challenges, and opportunities shaping today’s workplaces.

Career Building – the skills employers truly value, and how to stand out in one of the world’s most competitive job markets.

Personal Journeys – the inspirations, struggles, and lessons that shape life beyond the office.

Big Smoke Chronicle

Episodes

Team Introduction - Episode 1

In this introductory episode, we share who we are, why we started this podcast, and the heart behind our mission: to bridge the gap between students and professionals through real, unfiltered conversations about business, finance, and life in the city.

Edward Till - Career in Finance - Episode 2

Edward Till brings over three decades of banking experience, including 30 years shaping the world of trade and supply chain finance. He’s held senior leadership roles at Citibank and HSBC across the UK and Europe, leading teams and strategy in both developed and emerging markets.
Tune in to the episode for insider advice on breaking into finance, growing with confidence, and standing out in the labour market.

Laura McCracken- Careers Aren’t Linear: Leadership, Culture & the AI Shift- Episode 3

What if the career path you’re chasing… doesn’t actually exist?In this episode of The Big Smoke Chronicles , we’re joined by Laura McCracken, a global fintech leader with more than 30 years of experience at the sharp end of the industry. Laura has held senior roles at Meta, Amazon, American Express, Accenture, Santander and Citi, giving her a rare, behind-the-scenes view of how careers really unfold.In this conversation, we unpack:

• Straight-talking advice for Gen Z navigating work, pressure and uncertainty

• What strong leadership actually looks like in practice

• Why culture beats strategy almost every time

If you’re questioning your next move, feeling behind, or wondering whether you’re “doing it wrong”, this episode will reset your perspective.Subscribe to The Big Smoke Chronicles for grounded, honest conversations about careers, leadership and the realities no one puts on LinkedIn.

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