Strangers on a Bench
Tom RosenthalHave 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 past year walking through various parks across the UK and Ireland, 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 revea... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 90 | Founded | 2 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Society & CultureDocumentary | |||
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Latest Episodes
Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation.
This is what happened!
Produced by Tom Rosenthal
Edited by Rose De Larrabeiti
Mixed by Mike Woolley
Theme tune by Tom Ro... more
Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation.
This is what happened!
Produced by Tom Rosenthal
Edited by Rose De Larrabeiti
Mixed by Mike Woolley
Theme tune by Tom Ro... more
Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation.
This is what happened!
Produced by Tom Rosenthal
Edited by Rose De Larrabeiti
Mixed by Mike Woolley
Theme tune by Tom Ro... more
Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation.
This is what happened!
Produced by Tom Rosenthal
Edited by Rose De Larrabeiti
Mixed by Mike Woolley
Theme tune by Tom Ro... more
Key Facts
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Reviews
- What a joyous listen
Love listening to Tom and his bench guests.. this week’s chat from the back of a van was nothing short than inspirational.. what an amazing philosophy.. say hello to your delivery driver from now on.. I know I will..
Apple Podcasts5UK Ioniq 5 owner
United Kingdom23 days ago - Brilliant
I have been listening to this for quite sometime now. Every Monday I look forward to putting it on. I mostly listen to it when I’m going to bed but recently started listening to it when I do my walking. Tom you have the most caring nature and everyone warms to you. I would love to sit on a bench and have a chat and tell you about my life. One of my favourite episodes was the man with the bike and another recent favourite was the older guy who was a cheeky monkey but missed his late wife I felt... more
Apple Podcasts5JackyB45United Kingdom25 days ago - My new favourite
I just discovered this podcast when someone on another podcast mentioned it I am so glad I did. It’s lovely to listen to and interesting and beautifully done. I even enjoy the closing music, which is unique to every episode. I don’t see any new episodes in 2026, but I sure hope it’s ongoing. I’m sharing it with everyone. I know who appreciates great storytelling.
Apple Podcasts5annsonline
Canadaa month ago - Gina
What an inspiring discussion one ‘their’ bench 👏✨❤️
Apple Podcasts5BusyBees55555United Kingdoma month ago - The secret is out
I’m ashamed to say that I’m sad that Tom’s wonderful podcast is getting so much praise and therefore so many new listeners as I thought that maybe I was the only one.
However, welcome one and all, you’re right, it’s a beautiful listen as I feel like I’m meeting all of these wonderful people too.
Tell your friends; and Tom, please keep going, just as you are. Thank you. Clair
Apple Podcasts5FruitrocksUnited Kingdoma month ago
Listeners Say
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #26 |  United States/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #211 | United States/Society & Culture |
Spotify | #35 | United Kingdom/Society & Culture |
Spotify | #165 | United Kingdom/Trending |
Apple Podcasts | #85 | United Kingdom/Top Podcasts |
Apple Podcasts | #5 | United Kingdom/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Talking Points
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Audience Metrics
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Strangers on a Bench
What is Strangers on a Bench about and what kind of topics does it cover?
On bench-based conversations, intimate chats unfold between a singer-songwriter host and a rotating cast of strangers who share life stories, vulnerabilities, and moments of grace. Episodes blend themes of grief, identity, resilience, spirituality, and everyday joy, often concluding with a musical moment that echoes the guest's narrative. The format emphasizes listening, curiosity, and human connection, making it a comforting, boundary-preaked space where ordinary people reveal extraordinary truths. A standout aspect is how the host creates space for honesty without sensationalism, and how music punctuates each episode to heighten emotional resonance.
Where can I find podcast stats for Strangers on a Bench?
Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for Strangers on a Bench. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to Strangers on a Bench and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.
How many listeners does Strangers on a Bench get?
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What are the audience demographics for Strangers on a Bench?
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How many subscribers and views does Strangers on a Bench have?
To see how many followers or subscribers Strangers on a Bench has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.
Which podcasts are similar to Strangers on a Bench?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Strangers on a Bench:
1. Life Changing
2. Desert Island Discs
3. Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth
4. Ready to Talk with Emma Barnett
5. Off Air with Jane & Fi
How many episodes of Strangers on a Bench are there?
Strangers on a Bench launched 2 years ago and published 90 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Strangers on a Bench?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Strangers on a Bench?
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How do I access podcast episode transcripts for Strangers on a Bench?
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What guests have appeared on Strangers on a Bench?
Recent guests on Strangers on a Bench include:
1. Guest (name not identified)
2. Unnamed Guest
3. Unnamed Kite Enthusiast
4. Unnamed female guest
5. Unnamed Campaigner
6. Unnamed Dutch Man
7. Unnamed Male Guest
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.