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Artwork for Strangers on a Bench

Strangers on a Bench

Tom Rosenthal
Music
Mental Health
London
Parenthood
Family
Grief
Aging
Mobile Phones
Life Purpose
Prison
Depression
Bipolar Disorder
Train Travel
Childhood Memories
Miniature Making
Well-Being
Cycling
Cemetery
Brain Tumor
Living On a Boat

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 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

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes81Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
DocumentarySociety & Culture

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Artwork for Strangers on a Bench

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

**Content Warning - abuse and sexual assault**. 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 Larrabe... 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

Contact Information
Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

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Recent Guests

Guest (name not identified)
Shares personal stories about love, panic attacks, and aspirations to become a photographer.
Episode: EPISODE 63: All You Need Is One Good Night
Unnamed Kite Enthusiast
A kite flying enthusiast who shares his experiences and passions.
Episode: EPISODE 45: The Air Is My Ocean
Unnamed Guest
Creative writing graduate and storyteller
Episode: EPISODE 42: If Only You Knew
Unnamed female guest
A woman reflecting on her Muslim upbringing, familial trauma, and the journey of self-discovery and healing.
Episode: EPISODE 37: Pain Softens Your Heart
Unnamed Campaigner
LGBTIQ human rights campaigner
Episode: EPISODE 32: Becoming a Superhero
Unnamed Dutch Man
A Dutchman passionate about Latin dancing and self-reflection
Episode: EPISODE 25: The Teacher Will Appear
Unnamed Male Guest
A young man reflecting on his personal journey and relationships
Episode: EPISODE 18: Snowy Arrivals and Father Figures

Host

Tom Rosenthal
Host of Strangers on a Bench

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 7.2k ratings
  • My favourite podcast

    I just love these podcasts. Tom has such a great ability to get the best out of people and make them feel good about themselves, he uses humour and charm. Keep them coming Tom!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Katehk275
    United Kingdom22 days ago
  • Always fascinating

    No two episodes ever touch you the same way. A wonderful insight into the huge diversity of the human condition led by gentle, intelligent, explorer Tom. Eve’s dropping into the most fascinating conversations. Wonderful.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Florentine Gold
    Ireland22 days ago
  • Best podcast ever!

    This is one of the best, most heartwarming podcasts to ever exist! Tom, you have such a wonderful way of connecting with people and making them feel comfortable. Absolutely love this podcast!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Namrata Mistry
    United Kingdom23 days ago
  • Best Podcast

    I am on my second time around with this podcast, I’ve found nothing that so inspires me as much. The interviews are so well executed and he manages to draw people out without being too invasive. I’ve laughed and cried in equal measure and hope thy continue for a really long time. And the music at the end is sublime. Well done to all involved xxx

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Annie from the Blue Mountains
    Australiaa month ago
  • Love it

    I just want to say thank you for creating this type of podcast! I just love it, hearing stranger stories and experience and be inspired so much some times, getting emotional with them, be in their shoes, and ofc they will always remember your meeting and chat... wish to meet u in London one day ❤️ i also appreciate the non adv !

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    A.n.n.a. s.
    United Kingdoma month ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Guests are consistently seen as authentic and relatable, with stories that feel both ordinary and profound.
The musical interludes at the end are a meaningful, soothing signature that deepens emotional takeaway.
Listeners appreciate the host's attentive, nonjudgmental approach and the way conversations unfold slowly and honestly.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

EPISODE 79: Cormorants and Lewis Hamilton
Q: So if she comes, the great kisser, next week, how are we, are you trying to move it forward?
The guest confirms strong feelings but hesitates about commitments, indicating he would enjoy progress if things align, while keeping things light and ongoing rather than setting fixed dates.
EPISODE 74: Tuesday is Green
Q: What would you say to anybody who might be listening, who thinks they have an issue with alcohol and struggles with the concept of stopping?
A first stop would be Alcoholics Anonymous, the website. Read the stories of people who have got sober.
EPISODE 72: Just Ask The Trees
Q: What has emerged from yourself during the quiet times?
It's more like stripping away everything to realize that your identity is actually just you without all the external things.
EPISODE 72: Just Ask The Trees
Q: How do you spend these Mondays?
There's a backstory to how my dream has changed for Mondays. I'm really enjoying spending time alone after dropping off my son at school.
EPISODE 70: When You Realise Who You Are
Q: What surprised you about talking to a stranger on a bench?
I found a sense of spaciousness and felt like I disappeared a bit during the conversation.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

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?

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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?

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Which podcasts are similar to Strangers on a Bench?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Strangers on a Bench:

1. Desert Island Discs
2. Rosebud with Gyles Brandreth
3. How To Fail With Elizabeth Day
4. The Louis Theroux Podcast
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 81 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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What guests have appeared on Strangers on a Bench?

Recent guests on Strangers on a Bench include:

1. Guest (name not identified)
2. Unnamed Kite Enthusiast
3. Unnamed Guest
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.

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