The Nordic Leaders meet Nordic Blue Crime!
In this episode, we sit down with Satu Rämö — bestselling Finnish author, Icelandic resident, and creator of the hugely popular Hildur crime series.
Satu is a master of paradox. She’s a crime writer who can’t stand the sight of blood. A daily runner who lives by strict routines, yet writes fiction filled with wild unpredictability. A storyteller who leads with trust — even when it has cost her dearly.
We explore:
Satu also reflects on her upcoming TV adaptation, her journey to one million copies sold, and why she believes in demystifying the creative process.
Whether you're a leader, writer, entrepreneur — or simply someone who loves a good story — this episode is for you.
Some standout quotes from
🎤 “I don’t start writing a book. I start writing chapter one.” Progress begins with small, focused steps.
🎤“I write fiction — but I haven’t made anything up.” Fictional crime novels built from real-life stories, observations, and interviews.
🎤“Discipline is the way I create space for freedom.”A daily 3.3km run and structured writing routine allow creativity to flourish.
🎤“My biggest failures have come from trusting the wrong people — but I still choose to trust.” A striking reflection on the emotional risk and reward of openness.
🎤“If you wait too long to write the story, it goes stale. Like old fish.” On why speed matters — not just for productivity, but for staying connected to the soul of a story.
🎤“I have to be my own boss, colleague, and assistant. So I give myself structure.” Life as a solo creator, and how she keeps herself moving forward.
🎤“The stories are all true. The characters are not.” Her method of blending journalism, folklore, and imagination.
🎤“I don’t want to mystify creativity. It’s not magic. It’s work — beautiful, hard work.” Satu on demystifying the writing process and encouraging aspiring authors.
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Books Mentioned in the episode
