About us
Big Smoke Chronicle is a London-based podcast sharing the real stories behind finance, politics, fintech, and entrepreneurship. We go beyond surface commentary to reveal unfiltered insights from professionals working in London and across Europe.
Our conversations explore:
- Inside the firms – culture, challenges, and opportunities.
- Career building – the skills employers value and how people navigate one of the world’s most competitive job markets.
- Personal journeys – inspirations, struggles, and life outside work.
We don’t give investment advice or promote political/religious debate. Instead, we show how organisations, technology, and policy shape everyday experiences and the wider economy.
Our Value
1. Be the Jersey, Not the Name on the Back – team over ego.
2. Start with Intention – clarity and purpose.
3. Progress Over Perfection – growth matters more.
4. Foster Safe Spaces – respectful truth-telling.
5. Be a Net Positive – inspire and uplift.
6. Lead with Character – empathy, integrity, discipline.
7. Educate to Elevate – share knowledge for growth.
8. Celebrate Diversity of Thought – reflect London’s richness.
Ethos
1. Be the Jersey, Not the Name on the Back – team over ego.
2. Start with Intention – clarity and purpose.
3. Progress Over Perfection – growth matters more.
4. Foster Safe Spaces – respectful truth-telling.
5. Be a Net Positive – inspire and uplift.
6. Lead with Character – empathy, integrity, discipline.
7. Educate to Elevate – share knowledge for growth.
8. Celebrate Diversity of Thought – reflect London’s richness.
Meet The Team
Abi Bell
Ardi Ghaedi
Sam Karimi
Abi Bell is a passionate entrepreneur, community-builder, and public speaker based in London. She is currently pursuing a degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Westminster, where she combines academic learning with business in action. Abi serves as a cofounder and host of The Big Smoke Chronicles, where she helps shape conversations around culture, creativity, and purpose in the heart of the city.
Driven by her desire to see people thrive, Abi has founded initiatives that help her peers connect, socialise, and grow in their faith. She has also completed certifications in leadership, psychology, and theology with an IBM endorsed certification, equipping her with a unique mix of skills to bridge business, people, and character development. Known for her enthusiasm, grit, and teachability, Abi brings curiosity and energy to everything she does, inspiring others not just to dream, but to build.
Check our Social
Exploring real stories from finance, politics, and fintech professionals.
Big Smoke Chronicles offers insightful stories that truly capture the essence of London’s financial landscape and what the new generation needs to get into City!
David Sola (CFO @ LLoyds Group)
The podcast reveals authentic experiences and perspectives from professionals in finance and politics. Highly recommended!
Jane Smith
