Meet The Team

Abi Bell is a London-based entrepreneur and Business Management & Entrepreneurship student at the University of Westminster. She is the co-founder and host of The Big Smoke Chronicles, exploring conversations on culture, creativity, and purpose. Abi also holds certifications in leadership, psychology, and theology (endorsed by ILM) and is passionate about building communities that help people grow in business, faith, and character.

Ardi Ghaedi is a creative entrepreneur who began his career in architecture before moving into finance and fintech. He founded a platform that helps businesses and individuals across the Middle East access global markets, and now serves as a co-founder of Big Smoke Chronicle. He currently studies Economics and Management at the University of Westminster and is interested in ethical business, economic justice, and the potential of crypto and fintech innovation.

Sam Karimi is a Chartered Accountant and finance leader with 15+ years’ experience across Deloitte and Sony Electronics. He’s the co-founder of The Big Smoke Chronicle, where he brings sharp insights into finance, fintech, and entrepreneurship. Beyond the numbers, Sam is passionate about storytelling, building ventures, and exploring how technology, culture, and leadership shape modern business in London and beyond.

Abi Bell

Sam Karimi

Co- Founder

Co- Founder/Host

Iman Khalid

Social Media Manager

Iman Khalid is an Entrepreneurship student at the University of Westminster and Social Media Manager for The Big Smoke Chronicles, where she leads digital strategy and community engagement across multiple platforms. Alongside her studies, she is developing SpendSense, a student financial wellbeing app aimed at helping young people better understand and manage their finances. Driven by impact and growth, Iman is focused on building practical skills, meaningful connections and a purpose-led career.

Ardavan Ghaedi

Co- Founder/Host

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!

Laura Mccracken (Finance Professional )

A person is sitting at a desk in front of a computer monitor displaying a financial website. The room is softly lit with natural light coming in from a nearby window. A desk lamp and a plant add to the aesthetic of the workspace. The person is holding a smartphone to their ear, appearing to be in a call.
A person is sitting at a desk in front of a computer monitor displaying a financial website. The room is softly lit with natural light coming in from a nearby window. A desk lamp and a plant add to the aesthetic of the workspace. The person is holding a smartphone to their ear, appearing to be in a call.

The podcast reveals authentic experiences and perspectives from professionals in finance and politics. Highly recommended!

Edward Till (Banker )

Close-up of a podcast or recording setup featuring a large microphone at the center with two people in the background. One is a woman with glasses, and the other is a person on the left partially out of frame. A laptop and a tablet are on the table.
Close-up of a podcast or recording setup featuring a large microphone at the center with two people in the background. One is a woman with glasses, and the other is a person on the left partially out of frame. A laptop and a tablet are on the table.
★★★★★
★★★★★