Jack Boswell explores the Parisian tradition of flânerie, the art of strolling aimlessly through city streets, discovering beauty in the everyday.

Joining him is Dr Aimée Boutin, a French literature professor and flânerie expert, who explains its origins in 19th-century Paris and how urban renewal gave rise to this mindful, poetic practice. Aimée shares how the flâneur engages all the senses to experience the city, describing it as a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and stories waiting to be uncovered.

Jack also takes to the streets of north London with Adélie, a Parisian friend, to explore how this timeless concept resonates today. Together, they wander through bustling crowds, soak in festive lights, and reflect on the joys of slowing down. A chance encounter with strangers highlights the connections that can emerge when we embrace the unexpected and open ourselves to the world around us.

This episode invites you to rediscover the simple, transformative act of walking - not to reach a destination, but to engage with your surroundings in a way that is both mindful and poetic.

Host: Jack Boswell Producer: Emma Crampton Senior Producer: Harry Stott Executive Producer: Sandra Ferrari Production Coordinator: James Cox Audio Supervisor: Tom Biddle Sound Editor: Alan Leer and Lizzy Andrews

A Message Heard production for BBC Radio 4

Jack Boswell explores Sweden’s cherished tradition of fika and its lessons on the art of taking a break.

Joining him is Anna Brones, author of Fika: The Art of the Swedish Coffee Break, who shares how this ritual goes beyond coffee and pastries to create intentional moments of connection and reflection. Anna explains how fika encourages us to pause, savour a sweet treat, and enjoy meaningful conversations - whether with colleagues, friends, or family.

Reine Eriksson, CEO of a Swedish telecommunications company, adds insight into how fika transforms workplaces, fostering creativity and collaboration. He reveals how this simple practice, embedded in Swedish culture, builds stronger relationships and a positive work environment by creating a level playing field, where all voices are heard.

Together, Jack and his guests uncover the roots of fika - from its social dimension, to its modern global appeal as a counterbalance to our fast-paced lives. They reflect on how fika’s emphasis on connection can combat isolation, nurture creativity, and remind us of the joy in everyday moments.

This episode celebrates fika as more than a coffee break - it’s a philosophy that shows how taking time for others and ourselves can enrich our lives.

Host: Jack Boswell Producer: Emma Crampton Senior Producer: Harry Stott Executive Producer: Sandra Ferrari Production Coordinator: James Cox Audio Supervisor: Tom Biddle Sound Editor: Alan Leer and Lizzy Andrews

A Message Heard production for BBC Radio 4

In this episode, Jack Boswell explores the intricate Iranian custom of taarof, a tradition of elaborate etiquette and rituals of deference that reveal how small acts of courtesy can foster deep connections and mutual respect.

Joining Jack is Eve Esfandiari-Denney, a poet and PhD candidate in creative writing, who shares how taarof has shaped her identity and family relationships. For Eve, taarof is more than just politeness - it’s a way to honour loved ones and express care, even in simple gestures.

Jack also speaks with William Beeman, an anthropologist who has spent years studying Iranian culture. William explains how taarof acts as a “social lubricant”, smoothing interactions by encouraging people to symbolically elevate others while lowering themselves. Rooted in humility and reciprocity, taarof creates a balanced social harmony where respect is shared, and hierarchies are softened.

Beyond its role in daily life, Jack and his guests uncover a deeper spiritual dimension to taarof, with ties to ancient Sufi traditions of love and unity. Whether among strangers or family, taarof becomes a ritualised way of showing reverence, empathy, and even joy - turning ordinary exchanges into meaningful moments of connection.

This episode reflects on the beauty of this tradition and how it reminds us of the profound value in elevating others, nurturing relationships and expressing gratitude in our own lives.

Host: Jack Boswell Producer: Emma Crampton and Sophie McNulty Senior Producer: Harry Stott Executive Producer: Sandra Ferrari Production Coordinator: James Cox Audio Supervisor: Tom Biddle Sound Editor: Alan Leer and Lizzy Andrews

A Message Heard production for BBC Radio 4