In Episode 6 of What a Stranger Told Me, Tim meets Paul, an excavator operator who lives in his car, and has a warm heart and a ready smile, as he prepares for a day out with his granddaughter and Bluey! This storytelling podcast captures raw stories from everyday people.

Living in his Holden Astra for years, Paul follows the work—from Debra to Port Macquarie—cooking on park benches, showering at Southbank, and charging his phone over a Starbucks coffee. He dreads the lonely nights curled on a mattress in the back, but daylight brings relief: walking among people, watching lives unfold, feeling less alone.

A family breakup pushed him here, but Paul keeps moving forward. He’s saving for a business, chasing better pay, and lighting up for his grandkids’ visit to Bluey’s World. His stepdaughter (23) and grandson (3) are driving up; his own son stays distant. Nature, self-healing, and random yarns with strangers keep him steady.

He once sat all night with a drunk, angry man by the river—just to listen. “Everyone’s got a story,” he says.Favourite time? Wandering Southbank, nodding at strangers, soaking in the bustle. Paul’s positivity shines: “Two steps forward, one back—then three forward.” He knows loneliness, but chooses connection every day.

This episode of What a Stranger Told Me weaves themes of resilience, connection, simplicity, and human kindness, offering a warm glimpse into a stranger’s big heart. It’s real, raw, and uplifting, proving a chance chat—and a park-bench coffee—can light up a life. Join Tim to hear Paul’s story, a reminder every stranger carries a spark worth sharing.

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Made & Hosted by Tim Reid & Jon Coghill
Music Supervision by Dennis Feletto
Photography by Will Reid & Andy McColl

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