Strangers on a Bench
Have you ever walked past a mysterious stranger on a park bench and wondered about their lives? Tom Rosenthal (singer-songwriter by trade) has spent the last 6 months walking the many parks of London, approaching random bench-dwellers and asking if he can sit next to them and record their conversation. Every stranger remains anonymous, neither name or place of work is ever revealed (even to Tom himself), leading to greater openness, intimacy, and surprising revelations from the participants. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes
Oct 7, 2024 • 17min
EPISODE 4: Making Miniatures by the Sea
In this engaging conversation, Tom Rosenthal speaks with an anonymous stranger who recently relocated to the coast. They share insights on the emotional journey of making life changes and the joy of tapping into childhood creativity through miniature-making. The guest discusses their aspiration to open a miniature gallery and reflects on the importance of rest and self-discovery. Together, they ponder the nostalgic significance of St. Paul's Church Yard, exploring themes of slower living and finding deeper meaning in life.
Sep 30, 2024 • 19min
EPISODE 3: I Threw My Phone in the Pond
In this intriguing conversation, Tom Rosenthal chats with an anonymous stranger from London, who shares a wealth of insights about life and technology. They dive into the nostalgia of train journeys before smartphones and the emotional freedom gained from unplugging. The stranger reflects on the bittersweet journey of aging, juxtaposing childhood memories with adult responsibilities. They humorously navigate thoughts on mortality, inviting listeners to ponder their own legacies. It's a delightful blend of humor and poignant reflections on the human experience.
Sep 30, 2024 • 32min
EPISODE 2: Fruit Sculptures for Breakfast
Tom Rosenthal interviews an anonymous stranger in a London park, exploring the significance of Saturday as a day of rest and how cleanliness connects to their upbringing. They share heartwarming anecdotes about childhood breakfast rituals and the joy of food presentation inspired by pets. The conversation shifts to personal growth, touching on knitting as a family tradition, and revisiting emotional resilience during the pandemic. Lastly, reflections on solitude reveal how nature and small moments can enrich life, leading to deeper human connections.
13 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 31min
EPISODE 1: A Fight
In this enlightening chat, Tom Rosenthal strikes up a conversation with an anonymous stranger in London. They dive into heartfelt stories of regret stemming from a volatile relationship and impulsive decisions fueled by jealousy. The discussion also touches on the intricate connection between basketball and personal identity, notably how the sport reflects life’s struggles. They explore the delicate balance of pursuing creativity while navigating societal pressures, reminding us of the importance of connection and vulnerability in today’s world.
