What Are You Doing in Denmark?
What Are You Doing in Denmark is a podcast that helps expats navigate life in Denmark. Hosted by Derek Hartman, Conrad Molden, Brooke Black, and Mike Walsh, the show blends education, entertainment, and virtual group therapy. The hosts share their personal experiences of living in Denmark, covering both the ups and downs of adjusting to Danish culture. They also interview guests from various backgrounds, including authors, musicians, and comedians, to provide insights and advice. The tone is light, positive, and often humorous, aiming to make Denmark make sense for internationals.
Episoder
Where Are You REALLY From? Growing Up a Refugee in Denmark with Lena Rexhepi | 181
What does it mean to grow up in Denmark and still be treated like a foreigner?In this episode, Derek sits down with Lena Rexhepi, who arrived in Denmark from Kosovo as a nine-year-old refugee in 1999. Now the author of But Where Are You Really From? Foreign There, Foreign Here: From Kosovo to Denmark, Lena shares her story of fleeing war, rebuilding her life, and navigating what it means to belong
Why Is It So Hard to Relax in Denmark? | 180
Denmark is supposed to be good at work-life balance. Five weeks of paid vacation, a culture that encourages you to switch off, and a whole summer when it feels like the country collectively disappears. So why is it still so hard to relax?This week, Derek and Brooke talk about the work habits they brought with them to Denmark, and the ways they've struggled to leave them behind. From hoarding v
Convenience vs. Community: A Very Danish Debate | 179
What if the problem with modern convenience is that it works too well? Comedians Anders Morgenstierne and Jefferson Bond join Derek to unpack why Denmark can feel slow, strange, and even inconvenient at first, and why that might actually be the point.Sparked by a question from a YouTube viewer, the conversation explores the trade-offs behind on-demand delivery, apps, and round-the-clock convenienc
Why Don’t My Danish Friends Invite Me Over? Making Friends in Denmark | 178
Why do Danish friends sometimes seem reluctant to invite you into their homes?This week, we answer a listener question from a Lebanese expat in Copenhagen who loves hosting dinners for friends but rarely gets invited back by their Danish friends. Is it a Danish cultural difference, a question of friendship groups, or simply a matter of personality?Derek, Conrad and returning guest, Kriti Prajapati
Is Denmark Really Open-Minded? A Listener Asked. We Answered | 177
Is Denmark really as open-minded and progressive as it seems, or is Danish culture also deeply conformist? In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek Hartman is joined by Anders Morgenstierne and Jefferson Bond to answer a listener’s question about fitting in, Danish social norms, and the tension between individuality and conformity in Denmark.The conversation explores Janteloven, Dan
The Reality of Being an International Student in Denmark | 176
What’s it really like to move to Denmark from the US to study and then try to build a career here?In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke talk with Jose Marquez, who moved from Texas to Denmark to study wind energy at DTU. Three years later, he’s finished his master’s, built a life in Copenhagen, grown a following by sharing things to do around the city… and faced the mu
Denmark’s Immigration Debate Is Moving Further Right | 175
Danish politics was anything but sleepy this summer. From a farmer revolt over fertilization rules to a high-stakes immigration showdown and a citizenship freeze that could leave thousands in limbo, this episode breaks down the summers biggest political stories that internationals in Denmark cannot afford to miss.Derek Hartman and Mike Walsh welcome back Danish politics YouTuber, Jonas Laursen, th
What to Expect at a Danish Wedding (part 2) with Kriti Prajipati | 174
Danish weddings have rules, rituals, and surprises most outsiders never see - and Indian weddings have their own glorious chaos. Kriti Prajippati returns to share what actually happens when cultures, ceremonies, and expectations collide, from gift etiquette and dress codes to the tiny traditions that can leave you completely lost. Kriti - comedian, content creator, and host favorite - also reveals
What to Expect at a Danish Wedding (part 1) with Kriti Prajapati | 173
Danish weddings have rules, rituals, and a lot more kissing than you think. Indian weddings have fire, midnight ceremonies, and enough momentum to leave everyone exhausted before sunrise. Kriti Prajapati joins Derek Hartman and Conrad Molden to compare the two, and the result is equal parts culture shock, comedy, and genuinely useful advice for anyone attending a wedding in Denmark. Kriti is
Does Culture Shock Ever REALLY End? | 172
Danish life looks simple from the outside. Once you live it, the real story is all the unspoken rules, paperwork surprises, language wins, social misfires, and the very real difference between Denmark PR and Denmark reality.Derek Hartman and Brooke Black sit down with Ilana Buhl and Brooke Fossey, known online as The Lykke Charm and Nearly Danish Dame, to take a brutally honest temperature check o
How Copenhagen Pride Built a Free 30-Year Movement | 171
Copenhagen Pride is bigger than the parade, and this year its message is sharper than ever: until the job is done. If you care about LGBTQIA+ rights, city festivals, or the real politics behind public celebration, this conversation reveals what it actually takes to keep Pride free, visible, and impossible to ignore.Derek is joined by Steve Taylor from Copenhagen Pride for a deep look at how the fe
Denmark Has Political Scandals Too (Part 2) - with Jonas Laursen | 170
In Part 2, we're joined once again by political commentator and YouTuber Jonas Laursen to unpack some of the biggest political scandals unfolding in Denmark right now.From the controversies surrounding former Conservative leader Søren Pape Poulsen (including the extraordinary claims made by his late husband) to the collapse of the Citizens' Party following the 2026 election, we explore the stories
Denmark Has Political Scandals Too (Part 1) - with Jonas Laursen | 169
Most people see Denmark as the epitome of trust and transparency, but beneath its idyllic reputation lies a fascinating and surprisingly scandal-ridden political landscape. Join us as political YouTuber Jonas Laursen, an expert on Danish politics, pulls back the curtain on some of the country's most outrageous recent scandals: mink culling, illegal instructions, social media mishaps, and bizarre p
Having a Baby in Denmark: What Will Surprise You Most | 168
Thinking about having a baby in Denmark? Whether you're expecting, planning ahead, or just curious about how Danish healthcare works, this episode is packed with first-hand experience.Derek and Brooke are joined once again by Ilana Buhl, who shares what it was really like to go through pregnancy, give birth, and recover as an international in Denmark. We compare the Danish and American systems, ta
What Happens When an American Goes to Denmark's Democracy Festival? | 167
What exactly is Folkemødet, and why do thousands of Danes travel to a small island every June to attend it?In this episode, Derek Hartman and Brooke Black are joined by returning guest Brooke Fossey (@NearlyDanishDame) to explore one of Denmark's most fascinating democratic traditions.Brooke Fossey attended this year's Folkemødet through the Wildcard program, giving her a unique perspective as an
Wait... Denmark Has an Amateur Space Program? | 166
Most people think sending someone to space is something only governments or billionaires can do. In Denmark, a group of volunteers disagrees.In this episode, Derek and Conrad are joined by Jørn Skyt, from Copenhagen Suborbitals, the volunteer-run organization working to become the first amateur team in the world to launch a human into space. We talk about how nearly 80 volunteers from all walks of
Is Dating a Dane Really This Hard? | 165
Moving to a new country doesn't just mean learning a new language or figuring out the grocery store. Sometimes it means rebuilding your identity from scratch and that can put unexpected pressure on even the strongest relationships.In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke respond to a heartfelt question from Laura, a Portuguese listener who's been living in Denmark for two
What Danes Wish Internationals Knew: The Best Advice We've Gotten About Living in Denmark | 164
What advice would Danes give to internationals trying to build a life here?In this special compilation episode, we're revisiting some of our favorite conversations with Danish guests and pulling together the best advice they've shared over the years.From comedian Sofie Hagen's thoughts on standing out in a culture that values fitting in, to Cecilia Bau's practical tips for surviving Danish bureauc
Why Pride Still Matters in Denmark: How Far We've Come and What's Left to Do | 163
Denmark is often celebrated as one of the world's most LGBTQ+-friendly countries. It was the first nation to legally recognize same-sex unions and remains a leader in many measures of equality. But does that mean the work is finished?In this Pride Month episode, Derek speaks with Steve Taylor, Head of Secretariat at Copenhagen Pride, about Denmark's LGBTQ+ journey—from trailblazing victories to th
Denmark Has a New Government. What Changes for Internationals? | 162
Denmark has a new government, but what does that actually mean for internationals living here?After the longest government formation process in Danish history, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has assembled a new center-left coalition that will need support from parties outside the government to survive.In this episode, Copenhagen Post editor-in-chief, Bernardo Basilici Menini, joins Derek to expl
The Unwritten Rules of Drinking in Denmark | 161
Moving to Denmark and wondering what happens when you walk into a Danish bar?This week, Derek, Conrad and Brooke answer a listener question about Danish drinking culture and the unwritten rules of going out in Denmark. From brown bars (bodegas) and Christmas beer chaos to workplace drinking, tipping culture, buying rounds and why the bartender might not be interested in hearing your life story, th
Why So Many Internationals Leave Denmark (Even After Landing the Dream Job) | 160
Denmark says it needs international talent. So why do so many internationals still feel uncertain about building a future here?In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek talks with Dan Rosenberg from Copenhagen Capacity about the reality behind working and staying in Denmark as an international. They discuss why many internationals feel “professionally stuck” in Denmark and the hidden
Why Denmark Is OBSESSED With Summer Festivals | 159
Why are Danes so obsessed with summer festivals?In this episode, Derek and Brooke dive into Denmark’s legendary festival culture with Heartland Festival founder Ulrik Ørum-Petersen. From Roskilde Festival and Smukfest to Heartland Festival, Distortion, and Copenhagen Jazz Festival, they unpack what each festival says about Danish culture, and the people who go to them.This episode explores how fes
How Denmark Became a Eurovision Favorite Again | with Clara Sofie on “Før vi går hjem” | 158
Denmark's had a rough Eurovision track record in recent years, but is looking to continue a bounce back that began last year. How did the country that has struggled to qualify for the Eurovision final, suddenly become one of the favorites to win Eurovision 2026? It's thanks to one song: “Før vi går hjem.”In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek Hartman and Brooke Black sit down with
Why Does Everyone Hate Randers? Explaining Denmark's Most-Mocked City | 157
Randers has one of the strongest and strangest reputations in Denmark. But where does it actually come from?In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek, Brooke, and Conrad unpack the myths, stereotypes, and history behind Denmark’s sixth-largest city. From “Randers Champagne” to royal-approved gloves, we explore how a place can be both mocked and have a lot to be admired at the same ti
“You’re Welcome… But You Don’t Belong” Life in Denmark as an International | 156
A conversation about identity, moving abroad, and why belonging in Denmark isn’t always as simple as it seems.What does it really mean to belong, especially in a place like Denmark?In this episode, Derek sits down with French author and artist Aurélia Durand to talk about identity, moving abroad, and the often complicated reality of building a life in Denmark.Drawing from her memoir Belonging, Aur
155 | Stuck in Limbo: Denmark’s Election and the Future for Internationals
Denmark still doesn’t have a new government weeks after the election... so what’s going on, and what does it mean for internationals living here?In this episode Derek and Brooke break down the current political stalemate and why forming a government has been so difficult this time around. Featuring a short interview with Bernardo Basilici Menini, they explain where negotiations stand, who holds th
154 | Public Failure, Danish Humor, and Creative Resilience (with Henrik Danielsen)
Fail Publicly. Survive. Get Better. Repeat. Bombing on stage feels like dying, and that’s okay.Hosts Derek Hartman and Conrad Molden sit down with Danish stand-up comedian Henrik Danielsen to talk about failing in public and why it’s sometimes necessary to improve. Before becoming one of Denmark’s sharpest observational comics, Henrik spent years bombing and returning to the stage anyway.What begi
153 | Why Danes Say the F-Word Around Kids (And No One Cares)
Why is the F-word everywhere in Denmark - even around kids? Derek and Brooke unpack one of the biggest culture shocks for expats, from parenting dilemmas to why the word just doesn’t mean the same thing here.From hearing it in schoolyards, on the radio, and even at kids’ events… to navigating it as a parent, this conversation explores what happens when language, culture, and values collide.In this
152 | Are You Annoying Your Danish Neighbors? (Live in Copenhagen)
We’re live from Copenhagen’s Comedy Zoo 🎤In this special live episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, we break down the unspoken rules of Danish apartment living... and all the ways internationals accidentally get them wrong.From passive-aggressive laundry room notes and party etiquette to recycling confusion and noisy neighbors, this episode is packed with real stories, cultural insights, and p
151 | Denmark’s Election Is Over… So Why Isn’t There a Government Yet?
Denmark just held an election… but the real story is what happens next.In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark?, Derek and Brooke break down the results of the Danish election, and why forming a government might be more complicated than ever.With no clear majority between the “red” and “blue” blocs, everything now comes down to coalition building, political trade-offs, and one key role: t
150 | From False Spring to Flat Hierarchies: Life in Denmark Explained
In this special Q&A episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark?, Derek and Conrad answer your listener questions covering everything from dark winters and Danish workplace culture to raising multilingual kids and navigating cultural quirks.They share how they met (after a two-year missed message), what it’s really like getting through February in Denmark, and why “false spring” is both hopeful a
149 | Denmark’s Election Fuels a Growing Citizenship Debate
Denmark is heading to the polls, but if you’re an international living here, there’s a good chance you won’t have a vote.In this episode, Derek Hartman breaks down the upcoming Danish national election and what it means for the hundreds of thousands of residents who live, work, and pay taxes in Denmark but cannot participate in the country’s parliamentary vote.Joining the conversation is Torben Al
148 | Feeling Lonely in Denmark? A Therapist Explains Why
Moving abroad can be exciting, but it can also be lonely.In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek speaks with therapist, coach, and author Lucy Vittrup Christensen about loneliness, why it affects so many internationals in Denmark, and what people can do to build real connection in a new culture.They explore the difference between being alone and being lonely, why cultural differenc
147 | When Living Abroad Feels Like a Normal Part of Family Life
When distance doesn’t weaken family bonds. Living abroad doesn’t automatically pull families apart. This episode flips the usual story about adult children moving overseas. Instead of loss or rupture, Conrad and his mom Jane talk about what happens when living abroad becomes normal for a family. Their relationship was already shaped by travel, mobility, and independence long before Denmark entered
146 | What's Covered in Denmark's Healthcare System? A Real Talk Q&A
How does the Danish healthcare system really work? When should you call 1813? Can you get a second opinion? And what happens if you show up at the ER?In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke welcome back Emma Grint, Dr. Mum-for-Kids, to answer your listener questions about healthcare in Denmark.We cover:Visitors’ access to healthcare in DenmarkEmergency vs. non-emergency
145 | Should Working Out Be Taxed? Why Denmark Just Made Gyms More Expensive
Denmark added 25% VAT to gym memberships and personal training, and it’s already changing the fitness landscape. In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Annie sit down with personal trainer and educator Mikkel Valgreen to unpack what’s happening, why it’s happening, and who’s most affected.The change stems from an EU classification that defines fitness services as “commercial”
144 | Denmark’s Highest Mountain Explained, and Why People Think It’s Himmelbjerg
Denmark’s Highest Point Isn’t the Point. Denmark doesn’t have mountains, but it’s residents do have opinions about hills. Strong ones. Derek and Conrad are here to unpack why a modest hill called Himmelbjerg became one of Denmark’s most famous landmarks, even though it’s not the country’s highest point. Along the way, they explore how definitions, measurements, and perspective shape what we think
143 | What Is Fastelavn? Denmark’s Weirdest Winter Tradition
If you’re in Denmark in February, you’ll probably notice children in costumes, wooden barrels being hit with bats, and an alarming number of cream-filled buns in every bakery window. That’s Fastelavn, one of Denmark’s most beloved and confusing traditions.In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke break down what Fastelavn actually is, where it comes from, and what you shou
142 | Hunting in Denmark: Guns, Tradition, and Why Danish Gun Laws Actually Work
How does hunting work in Denmark and how can a country with strict gun laws also have a strong hunting culture?In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke sit down with David Carsten Pedersen, author, founder of Always Hunting, and host of the Danish podcast Jagt Radio, to unpack what hunting really means in Denmark for those looking in from the outside.Together, they explo
141 | What Happens If You Lose Your Visa Job in Denmark?
No one plans to lose their job in Denmark, but knowing the rules ahead of time can make a stressful moment a lot less scary. Derek and Conrad know and they’re here to unpack a topic most internationals quietly worry about but hope they’ll never need. They walk through what happens to your work and residence status if a job ends, covering how the rules differ for non-EU and EU residents, with a few
140 | Denmark 2026 Changes Explained, Taxes, Cost of Living, and Everyday Impact
Denmark is changing. Here’s what matters. Derek and Brooke highlight what’s changing in Denmark in 2026 and why it matters, with the goal of helping you feel more grounded in your adopted home. No matter if top-top SKAT is in your future or not, these changes shape daily life in ways that are worth understanding. This conversation connects the dots between everyday costs, small policy shifts, and
139 | The Cultural Shifts That Quietly Rewire You After Living in Denmark
Living in Denmark doesn’t usually change you overnight; it sneaks up on you and quietly rewires your brain. Derek and Mike share listener responses and their own “wait, when did I start doing that?” moments as they talk through the small cultural shifts that stick over time. The conversation wanders through everyday life, work, and unspoken social rules that slowly reshape how internationals move
138 | What to Expect on a Danish New Year's Eve
What should you expect from your first New Year’s Eve in Denmark? Couch-jumping? Royal speeches? Fireworks that feel slightly… unregulated?In this end-of-year episode, Derek and Conrad break down Danish New Year traditions from the perspective of internationals who’ve learned them the hard (and funny) way. From watching the King’s speech at 6 pm and playing speech bingo, to the cult classic Dinner
137 | Danish Christmas Culture Shocks (replay)
With Christmas just around the corner, we’re revisiting one of our favorite holiday episodes from last year. In this festive roundtable, Derek, Conrad, Brooke, Annie, and guest Steven Feraru, talk about the big and small culture shocks that come with celebrating Christmas in Denmark as an international.From julekalenders and gløgg to julefrokost chaos, gift-opening traditions, and why Christmas se
136 | How to Survive a Danish Winter (According to Unhinged People Who Actually Live Here)
Winter in Denmark isn’t just cold, it’s dark, windy, wet, and emotionally confusing. In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Conrad are joined by comedians Jeff Bond and Jacob Taarnhøj to break down how to actually survive a Danish winter.From cycling through sideways wind, understanding seasonal affective disorder, navigating public transport misery, January despair, and Denma
135 | Parenting Through Denmark’s Healthcare
If you’re raising kids in Denmark and still feel confused every time you deal with the healthcare system, this episode will make things finally click.Derek and Brooke return for part two of their conversation with Emma, a British pediatrician based in Copenhagen. This time, the three of them talk about what it actually feels like to navigate Danish healthcare as an international parent, from getti
134 | Navigating Healthcare in Denmark as an International
Navigating Denmark’s healthcare system as an international can feel confusing, surprising, and occasionally hilarious, but it doesn’t have to. Derek and Brooke sit down with Dr. Emma, a British pediatrician in Copenhagen, to unpack how the system really works for internationals. They cover why the GP is your main gateway into care, why appointments can feel too short, and how cultural communicatio
133 | Enough About Mikkel Klint Thorius (part 2)
In this second half of our conversation with comedian Mikkel Klint-Thorius, we dive even deeper into Danish humor, cultural taboos, political satire, and how comedy evolves with the times. From reflections on “casual racism” in old material to Denmark’s unique relationship with free speech, intent, and edge-pushing jokes, Mikkel gives a refreshingly honest look at what it means to perform comedy i
132 | Enough About Mikkel Klint Thorious (part 1)
In this episode, Derek and Conrad sit down with Danish stand-up comedian Mikkel Klint Thorius, one of the sharpest, most fearless voices in Danish comedy, to talk about the jokes behind the jokes, the culture that shapes them, and why Denmark works precisely because Danes refuse to think it does.Mikkel shares how he first stepped on stage at age 10, thanks to an unusually supportive teacher. Since
131 | Denmark’s Local Election Results: The Big Shifts Explained
Denmark’s 2025 local and regional elections delivered anything but the usual political calm. Historic strongholds flipped, long-dominant parties stumbled, and unexpected winners surged—reshaping the political map just months before a likely national election.In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek Hartman and Mike Walsh break down the biggest surprises from election night with the
130 |The Danish Classic Julekalender Explained for Internationals
Every December in Denmark, a very specific kind of chaos takes over and it all traces back to one quirky Christmas show. It’s time to explore The Julekalender, the 1991 Danish Christmas classic that internationals always look up when they’re trying to make sense of December in Denmark. Derek and Conrad are joined by an actual Dane, Henrik, who grew up with the show and helps break down the Danglis
129 | Why Internationals Stay in Denmark
Most internationals who make it past the first few years in Denmark stay for one of two reasons and they’re not what you think. That’s what Derek found out when he chatted with Dan Rosenberg from Copenhagen Capacity about their latest expat survey. While Denmark attracts record numbers of global talent, keeping them is getting harder. Dan breaks down the data behind why some internationals settle
128 | Housing, Schools, and Jobs: Meet the Candidates Eager to Take on Copenhagen's Biggest Issues
This is our final episode talking to candidates for the 2025 local and regional council elections. This week, Derek sits down with Asbjørn Reissman from Social Democrats, Heidi Wang from Venstre, and Joanne Bywater from Liberal Alliance to discuss the biggest issues in Copenhagen's local elections.From schooling to housing prices, the candidates share their opinions and debate the issues, finding
127 | Addiction in Denmark: From a sense of disconnection to hope
Belonging, loneliness, and coping in Denmark. The line between belonging and losing yourself can be thin sometimes. That’s what Derek, Brooke and therapist and author guest Lucy Vittrup Christensen explore in this episode. Together they explore how the pressure to fit in, the loneliness of expat life, and Denmark’s open drinking and drug culture can blur the line between social habits and addictio
126 | How Denmark's International Residents Can Decide Local Election
In this episode, Derek sits down with Anders Storgaard from The Conservatives and member of the Frederiksberg Municipal Council, and Mads Hvid from The Socialist People’s Party (SF), who’s running for the Copenhagen Municipal Council. Together, they explore why internationals in Denmark should make their voices heard at the ballot box and how to decide where to put that vote.The conversation touch
125 | Pandas on the Loose and Other Wild Zoo Scandals in Denmark
Behind the zoo cages lies something deeper. Denmark’s comfort with nature, death, and education sets it apart from much of the world and nowhere is that clearer than in its zoos. While other countries hide the realities of life and death, Denmark puts them on display, even for children. What shocks outsiders often feels completely normal to Danes, who see honesty and curiosity as essential to lear
124 | Ghost Stories From Denmark's Most Haunted Castle (replay)
In this episode, we're revisiting the ghost stories of Dragsholm Slot, one of Europe's most haunted castles located right here in Denmark. From the crypt of 2024 spooky season you'll hear Derek share the tales of four different ghosts haunting the castle while paranormal skeptic, Mike, gives his thoughts and reactions. Whether or not you celebrate Halloween, you're in for a scary good time revisit
123 | Meet Finn Holschlek, Denmark's Youngest Candidate and a Voice for Change
In this episode, Derek interviews Finn Holschlek, Denmark's youngest candidate for local office at just 17 years old. Finn shares his journey from Austria to Denmark, his motivations for political involvement, and the importance of youth engagement in politics. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities faced by young politicians, the impact of being a foreigner in Denmark, and the
122 | Danish Friends, International Circles, and Feeling Anchored
Is making friends in Denmark really that hard? Derek and Mike dig into what friendship and belonging look like for internationals in Denmark, from the comfort of expat bubbles to the challenge of entering long-standing Danish circles. They explore whether you truly need Danish friends to feel at home, or just the right people to anchor you. It’s a thoughtful look at what it means to build real con
121 | Meet Lasse Frimand Jensen: Aalborg's Mayor Creating a Modern Hub for All
In this episode, Derek is joined by Lasse Frimand Jensen, the mayor of Aalborg, to explore the city's transformation from an industrial hub to a modern center for education, green energy, and culture. Discover how Aalborg is embracing its growing international community and leading the way in sustainable development.Lasse shares insights from his personal journey living abroad, the challenges of i
120 | Ghosts, Witches, and Modern Magic in Denmark
Witch hunts, haunted castles, and modern magic. Derek, Brooke, and Conrad dig into Denmark’s witchy past — from real 17th-century witch trials to modern-day magic and haunted castles. Along the way, they mix eerie history with humor, ghost stories, and a few surprising facts about why Danes still burn witches on midsummer bonfires. It’s a spirited episode that’s equal parts spooky and fun.Other sp
119 | Stand-Up, Sobriety & the Danish Way of Laughing
Can a joke survive translation? Danish comedian Jacob Taarnhøj has been finding out for over a decade—performing stand-up in Danish, English, and even Norwegian. From the comedy clubs of Aarhus to TV specials and international stages, Jacob shows how humor shifts across languages yet still connects people through shared absurdities. In this conversation with Derek and Conrad, he reveals what it’s
118 | Where Your Tax Money Goes in Denmark and How to Have Your Say
Voting turnout among internationals in Denmark is often under 30%, compared to over 70% for Danes. We can do better than that, right? Local elections in Denmark decide more than you think. Derek and Brooke get all the voting as international details from Narcis George Matache in this conversation. From Denmark’s upcoming local and regional elections—what councils actually do, who can vote, an
117 | Expat Facebook Groups in Denmark: Comedy, Chaos, and Common Sense
Helpful or Hilarious? In this episode, Derek is joined by comedian Jefferson Bond to explore the wonderfully unhinged world of expat Facebook groups in Denmark. These online spaces are meant to help newcomers navigate life in Denmark — but they’re also overflowing with conspiracy theories, questionable advice, and the occasional comedy gold.Highlights include:A now-legendary post about someone rep
116 | Denmark’s Drinking Culture: Shortcut or Stumbling Block?
Beer, bonds, and belonging in Denmark. In Denmark, alcohol isn’t just a drink—it’s a social shortcut. From Friday bars to school parties, booze is woven into daily life in ways that can shock newcomers. For internationals, it can feel like you have to drink just to make friends, join in at work, or even learn the language. But is that really true? And how do you handle it if you’d rather not? &nbs
115 | Policing in Denmark: Myths, Realities & What Internationals Should Know
Respect. Trust. Laws. Myths. Police. Denmark. Policing in Denmark isn’t what you might expect.In this episode, Allan Hansen, Deputy Chief Superintendent of Copenhagen Police, joins Derek, Mike, and Brooke to demystify how policing really works here. From the difference between 112 and 114, to what’s legal (and what’s not) when it comes to biking, drinking, or swimming in the harbor, the team cuts
114 | When Does Denmark Finally Feel Like Home?
In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek, Mike, and Brooke dive into the adaptation stage of culture shock. It's that turning point when life in Denmark starts to click. Listeners share their own stories and voice notes about the moments they realized they were doing more than just getting by. They share what made them realize they were navigating daily routines without second-guess
113 | Reverse Culture Shock: A Dane Returns After Many Years Abroad
Reverse culture shock hits home hard. Coming home isn’t always easy. After thirteen years in London, Danish comedian Sofie Hagen returns to Denmark and finds that re-entry can be just as surprising as moving abroad. From missing rye bread and blunt small talk to discovering how “first of all” sounds like starting a fight in British emails, Sofie shares the joys and shocks of repatriation with humo
112 | After you’ve been in Denmark for a while: Your questions answered.
Once you’ve been in Denmark a while, the questions get more nuanced. From the mystery of dating to whether hygge blocks new friendships, internationals notice the cultural puzzles beneath everyday life. In this listener Q&A, Derek Hartman answers the second-layer questions of international life in Denmark with humor, honesty, and a few surprises.Episode with Narcis (question 9): https://www.po
111 | Denmark vs. Deepfakes: Who Really Wins?
Denmark Says: You Own Your Face. Denmark just handed its citizens a legal copyright on themselves — your face, voice, and body are officially yours. Instead of clamping down on deepfake tech like a digital killjoy, the law flips the script and makes it an ownership game: if someone makes a fake of you, you can force them to take it down. Derek and Mike explore how this clever move stacks up agains
110 | Danish vs. International School in Denmark: A Cultural Conversation About Choice, Language, and Belonging
What makes a Danish school... Danish? This week, return guest Ilana Bull—an international school teacher and parent—joins Derek and Brooke to explore how school systems in Denmark reflect much more than just academics. From class structure to communication styles, from birthday customs to the role of play, this episode dives into the everyday cultural signals baked into the Danish approach to educ
109 | Homesickness, Red Soda and Comedy culture in Denmark versus the UK with Comedian Sofie Hagen
Out of place, even back home. Sofie Hagen left Denmark to pursue comedy in London—and came back a different person. This conversation with Derek, Conrad, and Brooke explores the mix of pride, pressure, and self-doubt that can come with returning to your home country after years abroad. But because the topic is comedy—across Denmark, the UK, and back again—it’s anything but heavy. There's also a de
108 | Redefining Belonging for Internationals in Denmark
Narcis didn’t just move to Denmark—he moved the needle. What began as a frustrating student experience turned into a powerful journey of activism, visibility, and political impact. From challenging exclusion in student councils to launching Last Week in Denmark, a very popular newsletter now published in nine languages, he’s running for city council and calling for a complete reframe of how intern
107 | New Visa Rules in Denmark: What’s Gained, What’s at Stake
Who really benefits from Denmark’s visa changes? Denmark just rewrote its work permit rules so Derek and Mike are here to break them for you. At first glance, it looks like Denmark is opening the door to more internationals. But in reality, the move may not bring many new people in. Instead, it’s likely to benefit those already living in Denmark—especially families trying to build more security. T
106 | Danish Language Mindset Tips with Brooke Fossey
Learning Danish? Stop waiting to feel ready. Brooke Fossey joins Derek and Mike to share why mindset matters more than mastery, and how choosing joy over perfection can transform your language journey. From awkward public mistakes to unhelpful corrections, Brooke’s approach blends consistency, curiosity, and a refusal to give up—even when Danes switch to English. If you've ever felt frustrated, em
105 | Stand-Up Across Scandinavia: What Lands and What Doesn’t
Laughter, lies, language, and cultural clashes. Some jokes don’t survive the border. Abby Wambaugh and Dharkshika Christopher join cohosts Derek and Conrad to talk about the challenges—and joys—of performing stand-up across languages and cultures. With sets in Danish, Norwegian, English, French, and Swedish, they’ve experienced what works, what doesn’t, and how humor shifts with the audience. Fro
104 | Living in Denmark with Ilana Buhl, @lykke_charm: Integration, Identity, and Everyday Life
Love, visas, identity, motherhood, burnout, Denmark. Ilana Buhl didn’t just move for love—she rebuilt her life from scratch. In this candid conversation with cohosts Derek and Brooke, Ilana shares how a three-day trip turned into a lifetime abroad. From navigating Denmark’s tough family reunification process to finding her footing as a teacher, parent, and online creator. Along the way, they unpac
103 | Sankt Hans Special: Weird Danish History
Bonfires, jesters, glass kings, pirate royals. Danish history is weirder than you think. Released for Sankt Hans—Denmark’s midsummer celebration of fire and folklore—this episode brings the heat with tales that blur the line between fact and legend. Comedian Adrian Mackinder joins Derek, Brooke, and Conrad to explore everything from a court jester fired by a funnier king, to Hans Christian Anderse
102 | Denmark Expectations Versus Everyday Reality
Denmark consistently tops the world’s livability rankings—but what do those lists really tell you about life here? In this episode, Derek, Brooke, and Mike take a closer look at the glossy reports versus the everyday realities of living in Denmark. From healthcare hurdles to hidden costs and navigating local systems without a corporate package, they unpack what these rankings often miss. Along the
