The Listening Project

Fi Glover presents four conversations between friends and strangers around the country. This week: Friends and neighbours Saira and Samantha reflect on the uncomfortable boundary between personal and public grief; Sara and Gillian share their experience of struggling to keep high street businesses afloat; Nicola and Lola exchange stories on the different kinds of prejudice they faced in the health system during pregnancy; and Eurovision super-fans Matt and Chris make a case for their respective home cities, Birmingham and Manchester, to host the contest next year. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents friends, relatives and strangers in conversation. This week, former postwoman Clair and dog lover Anita discuss dangerous dogs and the fear of being bitten. Retired newspaperman Brian and online journalist David debate whether there's any interest left in local news. We catch-up with brothers William and Oliver six years after they recorded a conversation about living with a stammer. And Tinda and Shona share their love of shoes; from fancy footwear to branded trainers and every pair in between. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Jane Wilkinson

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers and a catch-up with a husband and wife who were first recorded ten years ago. This week: Kelly and Agy talk about being women in male dominated sports; Sonia and Funmi discuss their experiences of having Sickle Cell Disease; Sazida and Mel share their passion for going on pilgrimage; and, to mark the 10th anniversary of the Project, a catch-up chat with Tony and Michelle, husband and wife first recorded in 2012. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

This week Ashley and Sarah discuss the importance of protecting coastal buildings and fishing communities; Luke and Andrew reflect on Disability Pride; The Listening Project's marking its 10th anniversary and Alana and Edie, both born in the year the project launched, discuss what the future may hold; and Emily and Marisha share a passion for cleaning up the UK's beaches. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer - Faye Hatcher

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers and a TLP 10th Anniversary catch-up chat with mother and daughters. This week: Karen and Diane share their enthusiasm for volunteering for the Commonwealth Games; Nicola and Katie make a powerful connection reflecting on whether to have children or not; ardent Newcastle United fans Samantha and Steve go over the pros and cons of the Saudi Arabian consortium takeover of their club; and Fi catches up with mother and daughter Victoria and Rosie, recorded for the Project in 2016, discussing Rosie's sister, Martha, who had severe eczema as a baby. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Four conversations between strangers presented by Kofi Smiles. This week: Kirsty and Angela, cyclist and taxi driver respectively, argue over which set of wheels causes most problems on the roads; Neville and Mike debate the pros and cons of having your body cryogenically frozen; Autumn and Adam put the case for and against vinyl records and streaming; and with the Women's Euros underway, teens Lacey and Sam share their passion for the beautiful game, their thoughts on the women's game and England's Lionesses. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Three conversations between strangers presented by Fi Glover. This week: Norman and Steve remember the miners' strike of 1984 from different perspectives - one was a striking miner, the other a young policeman with the task of keeping order on the picket lines; Ayesha and Imran talk about what Muslim representation in the media means to them and the positive impact of Ms Marvel, a new Disney series which has a first for Marvel - a female Muslim superhero. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Rob and Richard talk through the pros and cons of taking strike action; Tracey and Fenella share their experiences of loneliness and the ways they've learnt to deal with it; a special 10th anniversary conversation between ten year old boys Jesse and Roan, both born in 2012 when The Listening Project was first broadcast, talking about what they think is going to happen in the next 10 years; and mums Helen and Fabienne share two very different experiences of parenting and home schooling. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents friends, relatives and strangers in conversation. This week: Musicians, Kapil and H33ra discuss diversity at Glastonbury and other festivals. Ruby and Zakiyah who are both currently taking ‘A' levels share their plans for the next stage of their lives. Mandy and Sean, both Kate Bush fans talk about her recent comeback. And to mark the tenth anniversary of the project we hear a conversation from 2014 between Father and Daughter, Leif and Raphie about memories of Raphie's Mum who died suddenly in 2008. Fi catches up with Leif to find out how things have changed for them both over the past eight years. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Gill Kearsley

Four conversations presented by Fi Glover. This week: as the 50th anniversary of Pride UK approaches, Ashley and Chris reflect on the impact the marches have had on their live; Charlie and Richard share their poignant feelings about Father's Day and losing people they love; and super fans Seyi and Robert bemoan the passing of the hit Australian TV soap ‘Neighbours' - soon to be axed after 37 years. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: two Mums, Sarah and Jessica, reflect on the realities of trying to make ends meet amid the cost of living crisis; Matthew and Jennifer share their stories of being caught up in travel chaos at some of the UK's airports; Pete and Amy, bushcraft and outdoor skill enthusiasts talk about the value of their passion; and Gerry and Quincey discuss the future of Northern Ireland from different sides of the political divide. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Three conversations presented by Fi Glover. Oksana, a newly arrived Ukrainian refugee, and her host Pippa reflect on the experience of coming together from both perspectives. Jahmal, a semi-professional footballer and football coach, and Sam, also a coach, share their own similar stories in the light of professional footballer Jake Daniel's recent decision to come out as gay. And in our 10th year we are taking the opportunity to look at how The Listening Project archive at the British Library is being used. In this edition Dr Vaclav Brezina, Senior Lecturer in Corpus Linguistics, Department of Linguistics and English Language at Lancaster University, explains how he and his team have been using it to study how we speak. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week, Dafydd and Huw come together from either side of the debate on Rewilding the countryside; Glenys and Leon share enthusiasms for their hobbies of magnet fishing, beachcombing and meadow trawling; Christine and Shane swap perspectives on ambulance wait times from the view of the patient and the paramedic; Archie and Owen discuss their relationship with body image as young men from different communities. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Sam Peach

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Claire and Georgia share their experiences of surviving the Manchester Arena bombing five years ago and the Omagh bombing in 1998; Becky and Paul talk through the rights and wrongs of horse racing; Jonathan and Kit discuss the arguments for and against second homes; and Natalie and Chloe reflect on the possibility of there being an afterlife. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents friends, relatives and strangers in conversation. This week: Veteran comic Chris and new stand-up Katie swap advice and opinions on negotiating the comedy circuit; Jane, mother of five, and Nicola, who has two sons, share their experiences of bringing up young boys to respect young girls; following their mums' chat, Jane's daughter, Mairi, and Nicola's son, Karl, debate the lessons they've learnt growing-up; and Fi talks to Jonnie Robinson, the man in charge of The Listening Project archive at the British Library, about 10 years of capturing the nation in conversation. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour, and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Jane Wilkinson

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Joe and Brian discuss the impact of the cost of living crisis on their lives; Ellie and Paula reflect on how the nature of protest has changed in just one generation; environmental activists Stephen and Liam defend some of the controversial methods used; and Sam and Bronte share differing views the importance of voting. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Andy and Jen share their experience of the Falklands War, living with PTSD and with guilt; Andy and JR discuss their struggles to start a family and the stigma attached to male infertility; Emma and Colin compare notes on fostering and adoption; and French ex-pats Richard and Kemal talk about adapting to the life and culture of the UK. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Lana and Vicky share stories of their homes and villages being flooded; Iso and Helen talk about fashion - whether it should be disposable or sustainable; Jason and Luke compare notes on living in London and living in Manchester; and Jo and Nicole reflect on the pros and cons of where you live when you raise family. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Hannah and Matthew reflect on when the person you love, doesn't hold the same faith. Joanna living with Long COVID and Jay with M.E. share their experiences and the changing public perception of their debilitating conditions. Paul and Coryn talk about the wild big cats they have spotted in the English countryside. And Richard shares his joy of bright illuminations at night, with Ant, who is passionate about star gazing - a hobby only possible when all the lights are switched off. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Cathy Moorehead

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Caroline and Pedro reflect on the financial hardships they are facing due to the increase in the cost of living. Patrick and Peter share two very different experiences of trying to keep a home warm through the winter. And Rosemary and Martin exchange opposing views on the environmental impact of windfarms. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations relating to the conflict in Ukraine. This week: Oksana and Olena, both originally from Ukraine, share their deep anxieties about the war and the fate of family and friends who have chosen to remain there; Michael and Kev were so affected by the plight of the Ukrainians, they volunteered to drive vanloads of supplies all the way there; and Syrian refugee Musa and Jon, who came to host him, reflect on their time together. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between stranger and friends. This week: Bobby and Tasha share their passion for running and reflect on the difference between men and women runners when it comes to safety; Alexandra and Rachael discuss their feelings about being with partners who live and work away from home for months at a time; Dulcie, who made the decision to minimise the use of her smart phone, exchanges notes with Gemma Louise who couldn't survive without hers; and Romina, who is disabled, and her partner Darren who is able-bodied, talk about how they met online and fell in love and their experience of online dating. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Steve and Jonathan reflect on their experiences of school and on how their lives have been transformed as a result of learning to read as adults; Alison and Pete exchange differing views on the importance of grammar and punctuation; and Catherine and Hannah talk about the impact of delays in fertility treatment over the last two years on their lives. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: a catch-up conversation between Fi and nurses Liz and Lucy about the trials of nursing during the pandemic (the original chat went out on 30.05.21); Francesca and Hannah both have Down's syndrome and share a love of dance and a desire to live independently; and Tiegan and Martin reflect on their differing experiences of learning to manage their birth families. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Helene and Rose reflect on their experiences of being whistleblowers; Alex and Hamsia share their stories of being diagnosed with epilepsy in their youth and learning to live with the condition; and Julie and Meg talk about their love of acting and about ageism in the industry. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Clare and Amy discuss what it's like to work on the frontline - in a GP surgery; Joan and Joyce reflect on being healthy, intelligent and old, and how despairing they are of the stereotypes of old age; and Hannah and Tom share thoughts on his passion for caving and her dread of squeezing into tight spaces due to claustrophobia. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations about the shape of modern families, long lost siblings and living with flammable cladding. Rachael and Clara share their horror and despair of living with substandard flammable cladding; Jade and Ellie reflect on the ever-changing shape modern families; and the joy of connecting with long lost siblings is at the heart of the conversation between half-sisters Brenda and Rachel. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Police Constable Tim talks to Senior Paramedic Lisa, about the abuse they face as front-line workers; food producers Russ and Thomas discuss cultivated meat; Cat and Jackie chat about marking birthdays and other special days in the calendar. Producer: Faye Hatcher

Fi Glover presents a selection of 5 conversations gathered by our team of local producers around the country- your chance to enjoy again some of our finest moments. Former soldiers Michael and Nick, who have both done tours there, share their thoughts on how the military withdrawal from Afghanistan was handled; lorry drivers Becky and James discuss the realities of the trucking world; Alison and Nathan reflect on the impact being scammed has had on their lives; Helen and Chris share their opposing views on people owning second homes across the UK; and two women, both called Karen, talk about how and why their name has taken on a bad connotation over the last few years. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between strangers. This week: Countryside forager Robin meets urban skip diver Chantelle; Scott and Chris share their passion for playing Santa; and single-Mum Lisa talks to Natalie about the financial hardship she's facing this Christmas and beyond as a result of the pandemic.. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi glover presents four conversations between strangers about life in the hospitality industry, two little girls with profound deafness, eco-friendly Christmases and the new Republic of Barbados. This week: Shumana and Helen chat about working in the hospitality industry and why so many people are leaving; Jennie and Pamela reflect on how their lives have been enhanced by their profoundly deaf daughters; Charlie and Paul on how to have an eco-friendly family Christmas without losing any of the Christmas magic; and British Bajans Peter and Robert talk about the impact Barbados becoming a republic has had on their lives. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers about homelessness, obesity, career changes and toy shops. This week: Lorraine and Louise share their stories about homelessness - to coincide with the launch of the Radio 4 Christmas Appeal today; airline industry workers Magdalena and Philip discuss the lasting effect of lockdown on their working lives; India and Rhys exchange experiences of obesity and dramatic weight loss; and Matt and Maggie share their passion for running toy shops. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three conversations between friends and strangers. This week: asylum seekers Shukry and Loraine discuss homelessness and the healing power of art; Gemma and Amanda reflect on their respective relationships and whether marriage has had it's day; and Mark, a midwife, and Andrew, who runs a bridal shop, exchange thoughts on men working in a woman's world. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Kofi Smiles presents three conversations between strangers. This week: teenagers Phyllis and Maya talk about the big passion in their lives – tackling climate change; Fay, who was born into an orthodox Muslim family but is no longer religious, and Haniya, who was raised a Sikh and converted to Islam, share their stories; and Kreena, a mother of four children born with the help of a surrogate, talks to Katie who has twice been a surrogate herself. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents three powerful men-only conversations between strangers. This week: former soldiers Martin and Jon share their experiences of tours in Afghanistan, and of suffering from PTSD; Jack and Thomas reflect on what modern masculinity has come to mean to them, and the value of being part of a men's group; and Patrick and Abdul discuss racism in sport in the light of recent revelations at Yorkshire Cricket Club. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Michael and Tabassum talk about life in Glasgow and what it's like to live in the shadow of Cop26; Phil and Niamh share stories from opposite ends of the house share cycle; Cathy and Pricilla talk about their shared passion for Korean pop music and culture; and Bobbie and Derek reflect on being ginger haired and how ‘gingerism' has dogged them since childhood. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Four conversations between strangers presented by Fi Glover. This week: Zach and Elly talk about the dark and dangerous phenomenon of spiking women's drinks in pubs and clubs; Sophie, who is anti cars and private planes and pro public transport, exchanges views with Ed who loves cars and is learning to fly; Lindsay and Abbie share their experiences of living with the painful and debilitating condition endometriosis; and Kim, an American who loves Halloween, talks to Amanda who hates it. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

This week Fi Glover presents four conversations: farmer Martin and wild swimmer Angela exchange views on the causes of pollution in the River Wye; Stella discusses her fear of builders with builder Chris; Alison and Nathan share their heart-breaking stories of being scammed; and husband and wife team Noeleen and Henrik talk about the joys of living and working as professional clowns. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: two women, Jo and Maggie, on their love of space and space exploration and making a career out of it; Paul and Beth talk tattoos and how he wants even more and she wants rid of hers; Marian who is Irish and Amena who is British Muslim, share their painful stories about the effects of prejudice on their lives; and Dee and Dave wax lyrical about motorbikes with sidecars and life on the road. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents four conversations between strangers. This week: Becky, one of the few female lorry drivers in the country, talks to James who is waiting to start his new life on the road; Richard and Cara share important insights into coping and dealing with drug addiction; and Maisie and Chin reflect on being at the receiving end of a new wave of prejudice created by Covid. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel

Fi Glover presents friends, relatives and strangers in conversation. This week; As museums and other businesses begin to open to the public Peter and Charlene talk about being guardians of buildings during the lockdown and their plans for reopening. Faye and Viva discuss their very different feelings towards cities and the countryside and Justin and Jane debate whether technology is a help or a hindrance in people's lives. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Gill Kearsley

This week: Nick and Michael, ex-servicemen both, discuss the attraction of army life and share their perspective on how the exit from Afghanistan was handled; Megan and Gwyneth, both residents of Denbigh, exchange opposing views on what the town statue of the explorer Henry Morton Stanley represents; and Sacha and Yasmin explain why mermaid culture, folklore and symbolism resonates with them. The Listening Project is a Radio 4 initiative that offers a snapshot of contemporary Britain in which people across the UK volunteer to have a conversation. The conversations are being gathered across the UK by teams of producers from local and national radio stations who facilitate each encounter. Every conversation lasts up to an hour and is then edited to extract the key moments of connection between the participants. Most of the unedited conversations are being archived by the British Library and used to build up a collection of voices capturing a unique portrait of the UK in this decade of the millennium. You can learn more about The Listening Project by visiting bbc.co.uk/listeningproject Producer: Mohini Patel