How I Was Humbled on the Hills Above Kakanj

An Englishman in the Balkans is a personal podcast about life, travel, culture, and storytelling in Bosnia and Herzegovina, told from the perspective of a British-born creator who has made this country home.Expect gentle reflections, real places, local voices, field recordings, and stories that go beyond the usual headlines.I had planned to make a simple hiking story from the hills above Kakanj in central Bosnia. A scenic walk with our hiking club, a few thoughtful voice notes, some views towards Vlašić, and the sounds of boots, birdsong, and conversation along the way.Bosnia had other ideas.This episode is about a 13.5 kilometre hike that quickly became something much more personal: a lesson in preparation, aging, stubbornness, and humility. From a too-heavy rucksack and the wrong trousers to unforgiving hills, aching knees, and schoolchildren who seemed to float up the climbs, it reminded me that walking every day is not quite the same as hiking in Bosnia.It is also a story about community, kindness, and the strange satisfaction of reaching the end when, somewhere along the route, you quietly wondered whether you would.Before I go, I'd love to hear from you.If this episode brought back a memory, made you curious about Bosnia and Herzegovina, or simply gave you something to think about, why not send me an Email or WhatsApp voice note?You might have a question, a story of your own, or just want to say hello.With your permission, I may even feature your message in a future episode.LEAVE A VOICE NOTE ON WHATSAPPThe Email address is: [email protected]'ll also find ways to support the podcast, become a member, and follow the journey over at:Website:Substack:Support the Podcast:Interested in starting your own podcast later in life?My self-paced course, Start With Your Voice, is designed for late creators who want a calm and simple way to begin: FIND OUT MORE: