BusinessComedySociety & CulturePlaces & Travel

What Are You Doing in Denmark?

Derek Hartman

What are You Doing in Denmark is the podcast that helps you make Denmark makes sense. The name is inspired by "hvad laver du i Danmark," one of the most-asked questions of foreigners living amongst the Danes. This show delivers a blend of education, entertainment, and virtual group therapy from your hosts Derek Hartman, Conrad Molden, Brooke Black, and Mike Walsh.

The WAYDID crew have been living in Denmark for years. They've been through all the ups and downs of living abroad and adjusting to the Danish lifestyle. Their stories spare no detail about fitting in, and not fitting in as foreigners in Denmark. The show keeps things light, positive, often hilarious - and always real.

Besides their personal trials and triumphs, you can expect wonderful guests who share their knowledge and enrich the dialogue. Fellow internationals from all walks of life and corners of the globe frequent the podcast - even some Danes have been known to stop by for a yap. Authors, musicians, comedians, actors, and more share their knowledge, advice, and experiences on What Are You Doing in Denmark, the podcast that helps you make Denmark make sense.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Play

Open in

29 episodes
weekly
Avg 34 min
English

Episodes 29

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

Tuesday · 30 min
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 vacation days and working through the summer shutdown to overloading a holiday with so many activities that it stops being relaxing, they unpack what it actually takes to slow down. They also get into the unwritten rules of Danish workplace culture, why working longer doesn't necessarily mean working better, and whether ambition and standing out can sometimes clash with the Danish preference for fitting in. Along the way, they answer a listener's question about navigating expectations, office humor, and career goals as an international employee. Because sometimes, learning to make Denmark make sense means learning when to close your laptop and leave it closed. In this episode: Why Americans and other internationals can struggle with Denmark's work-life balance What to do with those five weeks of paid vacation (and why you should actually use them) How the Danish summer shutdown affects work and planning Why filling your free time with activities isn't always the same as relaxing The unwritten rules of Danish workplace culture Ambition, productivity, and the pressure to fit in Have a story about learning to switch off in Denmark? We'd love to hear it. Get in touch through our SpeakPipe! 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
October 6 · 25 min
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 convenience. Along the way, the trio shares stories about potato week, delivery work, package mishaps, and the eye-watering cost of Danish taxis. Beneath the jokes about Spider-Man, Amazon, and a very suspicious Titanic theory, there’s a thoughtful question: when everything becomes effortless, what do we lose? This episode is for anyone living in Denmark, considering a move, or curious about the balance between convenience, community, and how we treat the people who make our deliveries possible. Anders Morgenstierne: Get tickets for Anders's Show HERE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andersmorgenstierne TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andersmorgenstierne Jefferson Bond: Get tickets for Jeff's Show HERE Instagram: https://instagram.com/jeffersonbondcomedy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/jeffersonbondcomedy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jefferson.A.Bond/ 00:00 — The convenience question from a YouTube viewer 00:30 — Meet comedians Annis Moynstein and Jefferson Bond 01:27 — Is Denmark inconvenient—or just different? 01:46 — Potato break and the convenience of doing things yourself 03:51 — The hidden human cost of instant delivery 05:14 — Spider-Man, responsibility, and a delivery detour 06:38 — Amazon, instant gratification, and wanting more 07:59 — What happens when we stop going out? 09:51 — Delivery work, schedules, and who pays the price 11:20 — Courier stories from the night shift 13:38 — Package pickups, secondhand shopping, and delivery doubts 16:54 — DIY culture and why slower services may benefit workers 17:52 — The Danish taxi-price rant 19:13 — A comic detour into Irish stereotypes and Titanic theories 23:20 — Up Festival show mentions and the final thought 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 29 · 28 min
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 talk about hosting, Danish friendship circles, language barriers, cultural references, social media FOMO, getting rejected by friends, and why building friendships in Denmark can sometimes require a little more intention. Plus: how to actually spend time with your Danish friends outside the usual group setting and our increasingly questionable advice for getting a Dane to invite you over. More of Kriti: Tickets for Kriti's show at Up Festival: https://upfestival.dk/om/komikere/kriti-prajapati Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriticalcomedy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KritiPrajapati Other WAYDID episodes with Kriti: https://pod.link/1704607322/episode/NjczMjdkOWE0N2JmOTIwNTRlMDZkN2Nm 00:00 Welcome to WAYDID + Kriti returns 00:43 Why don’t my Danish friends invite me over? 02:15 Is Danish hosting actually different? 04:38 The language barrier nobody thinks about 08:37 Why cultural references matter in friendship 11:45 Danish friends already have established friend groups 13:32 Social media makes feeling left out worse 14:02 Should you mix Danish and international friends? 17:25 Are Danes less spontaneous about socializing? 19:19 Do Danes have different kinds of friends? 21:37 When should you stop trying with a friend? 22:38 Is this just a Copenhagen thing? 23:05 Why Danes schedule doing nothing 23:55 How to actually get closer to Danish friends 25:20 How to make a Dane invite you over 26:48 Maybe it’s not a Danish problem 27:56 Kriti’s comedy festival show 28:46 Thanks for listening! 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 22 · 31 min
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, Danish humor, high-trust society, quiet zones, public behavior, supermarkets, Copenhagen vs. the Danish countryside, and what it can feel like to experience Denmark as an outsider. Plus, plenty of discussion about the strange little cultural rules that make Denmark both incredibly comfortable and occasionally confusing for internationals. Anders Morgenstierne: Get tickets for Anders's Show HERE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andersmorgenstierne TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andersmorgenstierne Jefferson Bond: Get tickets for Jeff's Show HERE Instagram: https://instagram.com/jeffersonbondcomedy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/jeffersonbondcomedy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jefferson.A.Bond/ 00:00 Intro: Is Denmark Really Progressive? 01:07 Meet Anas & Jefferson 02:03 A Listener Asks: Why Is Denmark So Conformist? 03:05 The Danish Supermarket Experience 04:38 Progressive Denmark vs. Conformist Denmark 06:02 How Denmark Makes You Soft 07:00 Is Denmark Really That Progressive? 08:14 The Pressure to “Fit In” 09:15 The Danish Social Rulebook 10:03 Why We Love the Quiet Zone 12:00 Danish Train Etiquette 13:00 Don’t Play Music Out Loud on Public Transport 14:01 The Velcro Shoe Defense 14:55 Is It Conformity or Danish Culture? 16:01 High Trust Society & Following the Rules 17:01 Denmark Is a Quokka 18:02 Janteloven: Taking People Down a Peg 19:03 Copenhagen vs. the Danish Countryside 20:01 The Great Nykøbing Debate 21:02 Speaking Danish & Trying to Fit In 22:06 Can You Be Yourself in Denmark? 23:04 Is There a Middle Ground? 24:01 Why Danish Supermarkets Feel So Different 26:00 Netto, Self-Checkout & Danish Efficiency 27:00 “Uniform and Joyless” 28:02 When Danish Systems Break 29:04 The Joy of Supermarkets Abroad 30:01 The Final Verdict for Marcus 30:37 Up Festival & Where to Find the Guests 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 15 · 33 min
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 much harder question: Can I actually find a job in Denmark and stay? Jose takes us through the reality of studying in Denmark as an international student, from the surprisingly social university experience and international student community to Danish teaching styles, group projects, Friday bars, campus food and the cultural differences between studying in Denmark and the US. We also get into the transition from university to the Danish workforce: job-search visas, networking, Danish CVs and interviews, how much Danish you actually need to get hired, student assistant jobs, career fairs and the importance of having work experience before moving. Get inspired by Jose in this episode as he shares that one of the biggest things Denmark taught him is that “if I want to, I can.” Share this episode with anyone considering studying in Denmark, wondering what happens after graduation, or simply curious about what it's like to build a life here as an international. Find Jose: https://www.instagram.com/ihad.tolaugh/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ihadtolaugh 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 8 · 31 min
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, the conversation cuts through the headlines to explain what is actually happening now that Parliament is back in session. Jonas unpacks why the so-called cucumber time never really arrived this year, and why the biggest political fights are only just heating up. You’ll discover: Why the new fertilization law has triggered tractor protests across Denmark How the Green Tripartite agreement set up a clash between farmers, environmental priorities, and the government Why Venstre MPs rebelled against their own party line, and what that says about internal party pressure How the Spain-Morocco border crisis became a Danish political flashpoint Why Mette Frederiksen’s hardline immigration stance is gaining allies, but also stirring backlash What’s behind the freeze on Danish citizenship and why more than 2,000 approved applicants are still waiting Where the new international workforce visa law fits into Denmark’s broader labor and immigration debate Jonas also explains the strange political spiral around immigration in Denmark, where Social Democrats, the Danish People’s Party, and other right-wing forces keep pushing the debate further in one direction while the practical consequences land on real people - including internationals who have already done everything required of them to become citizens. On a brighter note: Jonas shares news about The Danish Dispatch, his new English-language project launching 1 October, designed to give internationals the context Danish news often leaves out. You can find more on his social media below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjonaslaursen/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jonas.laursen5 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonasblaursen 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 1 · 32 min
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 how living in Denmark for nine years shaped her new solo show, debuting at the UP Festival in Copenhagen this October. Along the way, the conversation gets wonderfully specific: the midnight timing of some Indian weddings, the Danish custom of speeches and songs, the infamous sock-cutting tradition, and the awkward reality of trying to navigate it all as an international guest.You’ll discover: what to wear to a Danish wedding, and what not to wear why gifts can range from cash to very personal, very unexpected choices how Danish weddings differ from Indian, Hungarian, and mixed-culture celebrations why speeches, songs, and staged performances can stretch a Danish dinner into an all-night affair the rituals - from kissing customs to sock cutting - that can catch first-timers off guard More of Kriti: Tickets for Kriti's show at Up Festival: https://upfestival.dk/om/komikere/kriti-prajapati Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriticalcomedy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KritiPrajapati Other WAYDID episodes with Kriti: https://pod.link/1704607322/episode/NjczMjdkOWE0N2JmOTIwNTRlMDZkN2Nm 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
August 25 · 30 min
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 a comedian, content creator, and longtime Copenhagen insider who brings her own cross-cultural wedding stories to the table, from a wedding where she brought a very personal gift to the bride, to the Danish traditions that caught her completely off guard. If you are headed to a Danish wedding, living in Denmark, or just love hearing how the same milestone can look wildly different across cultures, this one is packed with the kind of details you only learn by being there. You'll discover: What to expect from a Danish wedding ceremony, dinner, and party Why speeches can feel like a full-on variety show The strange but important rules around kissing the groom, standing on chairs, and going under the table What not to wear, what to bring, and how gifts actually work How Indian weddings handle timing, rituals, guests, and the infamous shoe-stealing tradition Kriti also shares stories from performing comedy at Danish and international weddings, teaching Bollywood dance, and building a new solo show for the UP Festival in Copenhagen. Along the way, you\ll laugh through hilarious comparisons of how different cultures celebrate, flirt, host, and overcomplicate a very happy day. Essential listening if you have a Danish wedding on your calendar, love cross-cultural comedy, or want the inside track on what really happens once the invitations go out. More of Kriti: Tickets for Kriti's show at Up Festival: https://upfestival.dk/om/komikere/kriti-prajapati Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriticalcomedy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KritiPrajapati Other WAYDID episodes with Kriti: https://pod.link/1704607322/episode/NjczMjdkOWE0N2JmOTIwNTRlMDZkN2Nm 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
August 18 · 48 min
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 on culture shock. The conversation moves far beyond honeymoon-phase optimism into the messier stages of adjustment, frustration, and acceptance, where everyday life in Denmark can still leave you feeling both proud and completely lost. More Episodes with Ilana Buhl: Having a Baby in Denmark Danish School vs International School More Episodes with Brooke Fossey: How to Develop a Danish Language Mindset An American Goes to Folkemøde 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#171
August 11 · 26 min
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 festival really works - from eight days of programming in August to year-round events, volunteer coordination, and the huge parade that fills Copenhagen with hundreds of thousands of people. You'll discover how Copenhagen Pride balances protest and celebration, why the human rights tent matters as much as the stage, and what this year's 30th-anniversary theme says about the state of LGBTQIA+ rights in Denmark and beyond. Steve also breaks down the growing pressure on Pride from anti-DEI politics, sponsor pullback, and culture-war attacks - and why the organization still insists on free access, ethical partnerships, and allyship that makes space for the community itself. We also get into the messy realities most people never see: how Pride is funded, why some companies stay involved while others back away, what happened when major Prides like Manchester collapsed, and why Copenhagen's model remains distinctly local, community-driven, and very Danish. Steve Taylor helps oversee one of the most active Pride organizations in the world, with programming that stretches well beyond August. He brings insider perspective on the festival's growth, its political stakes, and the work required to keep it accessible to everyone. Essential listening if you want to understand why Pride still matters, what is changing in Copenhagen, and how a city-wide celebration becomes a frontline for rights, visibility, and solidarity. View the full CPH Pride Program here: https://www.copenhagenpride.dk/en/ 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
August 4 · 43 min
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 that have dominated Danish politics in recent months. We also discuss scandals involving newly elected members of Parliament, why these controversies matter, and what they reveal about political accountability in one of the world's highest-trust societies. Jonas Laursen is a Danish political YouTuber known for making Danish politics accessible and engaging in English. His deep expertise and sharp analysis make complex scandals understandable for international audiences, helping break language barriers and distrust around Danish politics.Perfect for anyone interested in political scandals, European democracy, or a behind-the-scenes look at a country often hailed as a Scandinavian paradise, until you dig a little deeper. Get more of Jonas: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjonaslaursen/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jonas.laursen5 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonasblaursen 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 28 · 43 min
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 political antics. Discover how these controversies have shaped Denmark’s political scene and what they reveal about the state of trust, transparency, and power in one of the world's most admired democracies. In this episode, we break down: The infamous mink culling scandal and its environmental and political fallout The curious case of deleted messages and the phrase “Liu Mede, Live with it” The rise and fall of political parties like the Citizens Party and Denmark Democrats How politicians navigate social media—owning their mistakes or fueling new scandals The unexpected impact of personal issues—ranging from love lives to drug scandals—on political careers The peculiar Danish election system that allows outsider candidates to challenge traditional party politics Why even scandals involving legal gray areas become magnified in Denmark’s unique political culture Why does this all matter? Because even the most stable societies have darker secrets. Denmark’s scandals serve as a mirror to its broader democracy, revealing the human flaws behind its trust and high standards. Whether you're a political junkie, a curious expatriate, or simply fascinated by how small nations deal with big issues, this episode offers a revealing glimpse into Denmark’s political secrets, stuffed with surprises that will keep you listening and laughing. Jonas Laursen is a Danish political YouTuber known for making Danish politics accessible and engaging in English. His deep expertise and sharp analysis make complex scandals understandable for international audiences, helping break language barriers and distrust around Danish politics.Perfect for anyone interested in political scandals, European democracy, or a behind-the-scenes look at a country often hailed as a Scandinavian paradise, until you dig a little deeper. Get more of Jonas: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjonaslaursen/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jonas.laursen5 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonasblaursen 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 21 · 34 min
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, talk about prenatal care, labor, postpartum support, maternity leave, and the little cultural surprises that no one warns you about. In this episode we discuss: Why Denmark has far fewer prenatal appointments than the U.S. The surprising differences in ultrasounds and pregnancy testing Giving birth in English at a Danish hospital Epidurals, laughing gas, and birth plans Going home with your newborn (much sooner than many Americans expect) The home nurse who visits after birth Denmark's generous parental leave and why it changes everything If you've ever wondered what it's actually like to have a baby in Denmark as a foreigner, this episode is for you. 🎧 Subscribe to What Are You Doing in Denmark for weekly conversations that help internationals make Denmark make sense. Catch our other conversations with Ilana in these episodes: Get her advice on putting your kids in Danish or International school: https://pod.link/1704607322/episode/Njg5NGU3MGQ4NmZjYTEzNjI4MTUxMWFm Hear her story of moving to Denmark for love: https://pod.link/1704607322/episode/Njg1ZDRlYTE0NzMxMWRlMWI2ZWUzMmY1 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 14 · 34 min
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 American living in Denmark. Together, the three unpack what Folkemødet actually is, why it exists, and whether it really succeeds in bringing ordinary citizens together with politicians, journalists, businesses, and organizations. Along the way, they discuss Danish political culture, civic engagement, the Wildcard program, and what surprised Brooke most about experiencing Denmark's annual democracy festival firsthand. She's left with a question often discussed and debated, but never really answered - what does it mean to be Danish? Whether you've never heard of Folkemødet or you've always wondered if it's worth attending, this episode will help you make Denmark and Danish democracy make sense. 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 7 · 35 min
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 life - engineers and welders to artists and teachers - are building rockets in their spare time, one ambitious step at a time. This episode is about more than rockets, it highlights one of Denmark's most unique cultural strengths: the power of foreninger (voluntary associations), trust, and the freedom for ordinary people to pursue extraordinary ideas together. Along the way we discuss: 🚀 Why Copenhagen Suborbitals exists 🇩🇰 How Danish association culture makes a project like this possible ⚙️ What it actually takes to build a rocket on a volunteer budget 🌍 Why people from around the world contribute to the project 👨‍🚀 Who will eventually become Denmark's first amateur astronaut Learn more about Copenhagen Suborbitals, support their work, or book their workshop tour through the links below: Website: https://copenhagensuborbitals.com/ Tours: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/394401 Support: https://copenhagensuborbitals.com/support-us/ 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 30 · 20 min
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 and a half years and has a Danish partner. She wonders whether the challenges they're facing are relationship problems or simply the reality of navigating two very different cultures. Brooke lets us in on what it was like dating and marrying a Dane while living in her home country and now his. Derek shares the pros and cons of living in Denmark with a partner who is non-Danish and from the same native culture. While it seems like relationship complexities defy borders, this episode does offer plenty of advice, relatable experiences, and food for thought. Topics that get unpacked: Why internationals often feel like they've lost part of themselves after moving abroad The emotional labor of constantly asking questions about Danish culture Why Danes can feel exhausted being asked to "represent" their entire country How cultural differences affect communication, conflict, and expectations Why building your own international community can make all the difference As always, you can email, DM, or leave a voice note with your thoughts on this episode or your own question. We’d love to hear from you whether you're dating a Dane, living abroad with your partner, or simply trying to make Denmark make sense, like all of us. This conversation is a reminder that you're not alone and that many of the struggles you're experiencing are more common than you think. 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 23 · 27 min
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 bureaucracy, to Mathias Bach's advice on learning Danish before your free language classes disappear, and Steven Feraru's help in understanding why Danes might misunderstand you - this episode is packed with insights for anyone trying to make Denmark feel a little more like home. Along the way we talk about: Finding your people in Denmark Why having Danish friends matters Learning Danish (and why it's worth the effort) Navigating apps, MitID, e-Boks, and bureaucracy Janteloven and the fear of standing out Why your weird interests might be your greatest asset Featured guests: Sofie Hagen Cecilia Bau Mathias Bach Steven Feraru Links to the full episodes are included below: Reverse Culture Shock (Sofie Hagen) Dating, Coming Out, and No Such Thing as Oversharing (Ceceila Bau) Going Viral in Denmark (Mathias Bach) Are Danes Making it Harder for You to Learn Danish (Steven Feraru) 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 16 · 31 min
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 the challenges that remain today. Together they discuss Denmark's place in European equality rankings, ongoing debates around conversion therapy, protections for transgender and intersex people, LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, and why progress can stall when societies assume the job is already done. They also explore the importance of Pride beyond Copenhagen, the role of community, and what recent events in places like Hungary reveal about the need to defend rights that many people take for granted. Whether you're celebrating Pride, curious about LGBTQ+ life in Denmark, or interested in how social progress happens, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at where Denmark has been—and where it still has room to grow. 💼 Visit KINTOBE and use the code WAYDID20 at checkout for an exclusive listener discount - only for a limited time! ➡️ Pride Month Events: https://www.copenhagenpride.dk/en/events/ Topics discussed: Denmark's LGBTQ+ history and legacy Why Pride remains relevant today Conversion therapy and legal protections Trans and intersex rights in Denmark LGBTQ+ asylum seekers Pride beyond Copenhagen Recent challenges across Europe Copenhagen Pride and Pride Month events 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 9 · 31 min
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 explain what happened behind the scenes, why Danish politics may be entering a new era, and what internationals should watch for when it comes to immigration, housing, taxes, and public services. After listening, you'll understand: • Why it took Denmark more than two months to form a government • Why Denmark's political landscape is becoming more fragmented • What changes could be coming for housing, taxes, welfare, and transportation • Whether immigration policy is likely to become stricter or softer • What internationals should pay attention to over the next four years • Why some observers are concerned about growing political polarization in Denmark 💼 Visit KINTOBE and use the code WAYDID20 at checkout for an exclusive listener discount - only for a limited time! ➡️ Stay informed and subscribe to the Copenhagen Post: https://cphpost.dk/subscription/ 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 2 · 42 min
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, they unpack the social norms that often surprise newcomers. Along the way, they compare Denmark to the United States, the UK, Sweden and Norway, share stories from Danish nightlife, and discuss everything from Friday bars to smoking indoors. Whether you're moving to Denmark, visiting, or simply trying to understand Danish culture a little better, this episode offers a candid look at one of the country's most famous social traditions: meeting for a beer. 💼 Visit Kintobe.dk and use promo code WAYDID20 for an exclusive, limited time, 20% off discount Topics covered: • Danish bar etiquette • Brown bars (bodegas) • J-Dag and Christmas beer culture • Tipping in Denmark • Friday bars and workplace drinking • Buying rounds and MobilePay culture • Smoking in Danish pubs • How Denmark compares to the US and UK drinking scene Have a question about life in Denmark? Send us a message and it might become a future episode. 🎟️ Get tickets for Derek and Conrad's English Stand Up Comedy Show on 26th November ➡️ HERE 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFCSH6KqKooZmSx1GJu9CWZYjX8esjl2F 📢 Send your questions and/or comments. voice: https://www.speakpipe.com/waydid email: derek@whatareyoudoingindenmark.com 👉 Remember to tell your friends about the podcast. 👀 More living in Denmark tips: https://instagram.com/waydidpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Showing 1–20 of 29 episodes