Shows
What Are You Doing in Denmark?118 | Where Your Tax Money Goes in Denmark and How to Have Your SayVoting 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, and why internationals matter.Highlights include: when you are eligible to vote (EU and non-EU citizens)how early voting workshow to avoid mistakes that could invalidate your ballotNo excuses...
2025-10-0729 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?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.pod.link/1704607322/episode/Njg4M2QyODgzNzgxMzExZjkxNGI2ZDg5Episode 100; live show: https://www.pod.link/1704607322/episode/NjgzZGVmMjcwZDJiM2JhYzNlMjE5YzE3What Are You Doing in Denmark podcast:https://instagram.co...
2025-08-2627 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?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 against EU and French rules, the wild range of deepfake risks from silly to sinister, and why keeping up with AI might be the ultimate whack-a-mole....
2025-08-1921 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?110 | Danish vs. International School in Denmark: A Cultural Conversation About Choice, Language, and BelongingWhat 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 education.It’s an overview on how to decide on which school your child should go to and also a reflection on what school says about belonging, trust, independence, and integration in Denmark....
2025-08-1230 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?108 | Redefining Belonging for Internationals in DenmarkNarcis 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 internationals are seen—pushing to replace the outdated Ministry of Integration with a Ministry of Internationals. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider or wondered how real change happens, this episode shows exactly what’s possible.
2025-07-2945 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?107 | New Visa Rules in Denmark: What’s Gained, What’s at StakeWho 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. There’s layers of politics, religion and of course, economics in these changes that bring up concerns around fairness, the risk of being tied to an employer, and how internat...
2025-07-2227 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?106 | Danish Language Mindset Tips with Brooke FosseyLearning 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, embarrassed, or just plain stuck with Danish, this episode offers a new way forward. Listen now and rediscover the joy of learning—even when it’s messy.What Are You Doing in Denmark podcast:Ins...
2025-07-1529 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?105 | Stand-Up Across Scandinavia: What Lands and What Doesn’tLaughter, 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. From literal-minded Danish crowds to multilingual punchlines and awkward silences, this episode explores what it really means to be funny across cultures. What Are You Doing in Denmark podcast:IG: https://instagram.com/waydidpod
2025-07-0851 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?104 | Living in Denmark with Ilana Buhl, @lykke_charm: Integration, Identity, and Everyday LifeLove, 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 unpack culture shocks, language learning, and why stepping back from social media can be the right thing to do sometimes.Ilana Buhl (guest): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_lykke_charmTi...
2025-07-0137 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?103 | Sankt Hans Special: Weird Danish HistoryBonfires, 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 Andersen’s fear of being buried alive. If you’re gathering around a fire tonight, this is the perfect episode to spark conversation—and maybe a little disbelief. Listen now.What Are You Doing in Den...
2025-06-2438 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?102 | Denmark Expectations Versus Everyday RealityDenmark 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 way, they talk privilege, Paris Syndrome, and why your personal community matters more than any global index. Consider this the messy bits that don't fit into a neat list but are essential to understand befo...
2025-06-1724 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?101 | Becoming a Nearly Danish Dame: Brooke Fossey’s New Life in Denmark🎧 Bikes. Buns. No Danish friends? Challenge accepted.Brooke Fossey, The Nearly Danish Dame, moved to Denmark for a one-month vacation—and never went back. What followed was a full-blown reinvention: from running a bagel business out of a bike in Boston to becoming a cheerleader for awkward, honest language learning on Instagram. In our conversation, Brooke shares what it really takes to build a new life abroad—navigating motherhood, identity, and the Danish social scene, all while learning a language that everyone says you’ll never master. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to start over and st...
2025-06-1033 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?100 | How to Handle Houseguests When You Move to Denmark (or Anywhere)What happens when visitors overstay their welcome or were never really welcome to begin with? In this episode, we’re diving into the messy, funny, and sometimes awkward world of hosting guests, especially when you live abroad. Whether it’s friends booking a “free hotel” or well-meaning others who blur the line between visiting and moving in, expats and locals alike will relate to this episode.Oh, and this is our 100th episode recorded live at Copenhagen's Comedy Zoo with your host Derek Hartman and an illustrious panel voices living in Denmark:British comedian Conrad Molden,A...
2025-06-0320 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?99 | From Ukraine to Denmark: Kateryna’s Story of War, Refuge, and Stand-Up ComedyKateryna fled Ukraine when the war began, but that was only the beginning of her journey. Now living in Denmark, she’s rebuilding her life one punchline at a time. In this episode, she tells Derek, Conrad, and Brooke how comedy helped her cope with trauma, how it feels to perform stand-up in a new country, and what it means to create joy when the world feels broken.If you’ve ever taken your safety for granted or wondered how art can help us survive the worst, this conversation will stay with you.🗣️ You can l...
2025-05-2731 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?98 | Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid: The Strange Saga of Denmark’s Most Famous StatueYou’ve seen the Instagram photos and passed the crowds in Copenhagen, but how much do you really know about the Little Mermaid statue?In this episode, Derek, Mike, and Conrad have a laugh-filled discussion about the strange history of Denmark’s most iconic statue. From her origins in a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale to being commissioned by a Danish beer magnate, to her many beheadings and even a diplomatic detour to China — the Little Mermaid has seen it all.Laugh along as the guys explore her controversies, vandalism, obscure trivia, and some o...
2025-05-2027 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?97 | I Didn't Tell My Friends I Was Visiting Home, Now They're MadWhen you live abroad, visiting your home country can be a whirlwind—especially when you only have a few days. In this episode, we answer a real listener dilemma: Danielle, who lives in Odense, went back to Toronto for a short trip and chose to spend all her time with family. She didn’t tell her friends she was in town, and now… they’re upset.Derek and Conrad offer advice along with guests Dharshika Christopher and Abby Wambaugh to unpack the emotional politics of going home, how to navigate expectations from friends and family, and why you...
2025-05-1324 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?96 | Culture Shock in Denmark: The 4 Stages No One Warns You AboutMoving to a new country is more than learning the language and eating new food—it’s a full-body, emotional rollercoaster. In this episode, your hosts Derek, Brooke, and Mike break down the 4 stages of culture shock and share personal stories from their lives in Denmark—the excitement, the frustration, the weird in-between moments, and finally… that moment when it all starts to click.Whether you’re a newly arrived expat, thinking about relocating, or still trying to feel at home abroad, this episode is for you. You'll laugh, cringe, and maybe even recognize yourself in our storie...
2025-05-0633 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?95 | Cecilie Bau on Dating, Coming Out, and No Such Thing as Oversharing in DenmarkIn this episode you'll get to know the brilliant Danish comedian Cecilie Bau, who also happens to be our special guest for our upcoming live show! She sits down with Brooke, Conrad, and Derek to talk about dating in Denmark, coming out, and how it's all just comedic inspiration. We also dive into her work as a mental health advocate and how the stigma and treatment of mental health has evolved in Denmark.Cecilie’s stand-up is brutally honest, hilariously awkward, and deeply personal and you'll love getting to know her and why she "never really un...
2025-05-0127 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?94 | Why You Can't Name Your Baby 'Banana' in Denmark (with Mathias Bach)Ever wonder why there are so many common names in Denmark? In this episode, Derek, Brooke, and Conrad dive into Denmark’s strict baby naming laws - with plenty of laughs along the way from our friend Mathias Bach. From government-approved name lists to the historical reasons behind them, we break down what you can (and can’t) name your kid if you're raising them in Denmark. Plus, a few awkward personal stories about trying to navigate Danish names as a foreigner.🗣️ You can leave your own voice note for us here: speakpipe.com/waydid or email hel...
2025-04-2931 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?93 | PD2, PD3, and WTF — Do You Really Have to Learn Danish?In this episode, you'll learn all about the complicated world of learning Danish as a foreigner in Denmark with an update from Conrad, who’s currently prepping for the PD3 exam, and Mike, who recently passed PD2.Derek explains what the difference is between the two tests (and why it matters), which one you need for permanent residency or citizenship, and whether those government-sponsored language courses are actually worth it.We also get into the emotional rollercoaster of trying to snakke dansk—the awkward café orders, the sudden language-switching, and the eternal question: will I ever...
2025-04-2232 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?92 | Going Viral in Denmark: Mathias Bach on TikTok Fame, Danish Humor & ApplesauceIn this episode, we sit down with award-winning Danish creator Mathias Bach—TikToker of the Year, mastermind behind some of Denmark’s most viral videos, and former child YouTuber who once tried to shorten school days for everyone.Brooke, Conrad, and Derek get Mathias's view on growing up in Denmark, what most foreigners really don’t understand about Danish culture, and how he balances humor with social commentary. We discuss the strange reality of being a creator in one of the smallest countries on the internet and what topics are best to poke at for a Danish...
2025-04-1536 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?91 | Denmark’s Bizarre Copyright Wars: Elvis, Harry Potter & McDonald'sWhat do Elvis Presley, Harry Potter, and McDonald’s all have in common? They’ve all taken legal swings at Denmark.In this episode, Brooke brings Derek and Mike three wild tales of copyright lawsuits that landed in Danish courtrooms - from a replica Graceland in Jutland to a magical festival that had to lose a little Hogwarts to survive. Plus, a hot dog vendor who went toe-to-toe with a global fast food empire... and kind of won?Danish creativity meets international IP law—what could go wrong?🗣️ You can leave your own voice n...
2025-04-0818 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?90 | How Denmark Handles Stress, Birthdays & Climate Change (Better Than You?) with Mathias BachDenmark had an eventful week, and we’re breaking it all down! Brooke dives into the surprising but very Danish reason a popular band replaced their lead singer. Derek explores how Denmark is tackling rising groundwater caused by climate change. And Conrad shares a heartwarming (and extremely Danish) birthday tradition that caught him off guard.Plus, we’re joined by friend of the show and your other favorite social media "mom" from Denmark, Mathias Bach, to give us the full Danish perspective on work-life balance, school customs, and how Denmark is handling climate change.🗣️...
2025-04-0324 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?89 | Should You Move to Denmark? Here’s What to See Before DecidingIn this episode, Derek, Brooke, and Conrad help a listener who’s considering a move by breaking down what she and her family should explore beyond the tourist hotspots. What will make the visit feel authentic and what everyday realities might surprise you?Joining the conversation is Adrian MacKinder, writer, comedian, and friend of the show who made the leap to Denmark himself. Together, we share the must-visit spots that give a real sense of life in Copenhagen—both the good and the “you should probably know about this.”Plus, Brooke and Conrad reflect...
2025-04-0130 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?88 | Boycott American Goods or Sell Them Eggs? Week 13 News in DenmarkIn this episode, Brooke, Conrad, and Derek are joined by friend of the show, Adrian MacKinder to discuss the week's news in Denmark. You'll hear a discussion on America's egg shortage and why the US asked Denmark to buy surplus egg shipments. This leads into a debate on the merit of Danes organizing a boycott of American goods - is it a shortsighted, a solution for change, or virtue signaling? In a positive story, we discuss the volunteer efforts to educate Danish seniors on cyber security and internet safety.🗣️ If you have an experience you'd like to sh...
2025-03-2522 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?87 | Are Danes Making it Harder for You to Learn Danish? (with Steven Feraru)In this episode, we explore the difficulties of learning Danish through a listener message. Mei from Taiwan, and part of the WAYDID community, shares her frustrating experience learning Danish and being quizzed and mocked by Danish acquaintances on her progress. We discuss the demotivating forces that can plague foreigners learning Danish and the ways in which Danes are knowingly or unknowingly making it harder for international folks to learn the language.Conrad, Brooke, and Derek break down their own experiences learning Danish and the specific influences from the Danes in their lives. And of course, a...
2025-03-1835 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?86 | Paying US Taxes as an American Abroad (with Nathalie Goldstein)In this episode, Derek sits down with Nathalie Goldstein, CEO of MyExpatTaxes and an IRS Enrolled Agent, to break down everything Americans living abroad need to know about filing their U.S. taxes. Whether you're in Denmark, Austria, or anywhere else in the world, Uncle Sam still wants his cut—and ignoring it isn’t an option.You'll find out:💰 Do you actually have to file? (Spoiler: Probably.)🏦 FBAR & FATCA: Why the U.S. tracks your foreign bank accounts.🇩🇰 Taxes in Denmark vs. the U.S.: Do you have to pay twice?
2025-03-1126 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?85 | Does Living Near Your Friends Affect Your Health?This week, Annie, Briana, and Derek discuss the science behind friendship and how living in close proximity to good friends impacts your mental and physical health. According to numerous multi-generational studies, it's even the key to a longer life. What does this mean for those of us who move to a new country and live away from our closest friends? As you may imagine, it can have a profound impact - so what can we do about it?In this episode you'll hear about the ways that Annie and Briana are helping women to fin...
2025-03-0434 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?84 | Elon Picks a Fight, Zoo Escapes, and Audio Surveillance: Week 9 NewsThis week, Derek, Brooke, and Mike break down the most interesting headlines in Denmark. You'll learn why the Danish National Police are looking for an alternative to being on X aka Twitter and the beloved Dane that Elon Musk started a twitter fight with because his misinformation was corrected. On a lighter note, we discuss some of the recent zoo escapes in Denmark including the most recent zebra that went missing from a zoo in Jutland. Finally, we discuss the new law that allows shops to use audio surveillance on their employees and you, their customers. What could this...
2025-02-2527 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?83 | The Danish King Who Played the Dating Game of ThronesIn this episode, Derek, Conrad, and Brooke welcome back our resident royal expert, Anna Marie, for another fascinating look at Danish royalty. She kicks things off by quizzing us on some of Denmark’s most intriguing kings and queens before diving into the life and legacy of King Christian IX. How did a king from a relatively small nation manage to shape several European monarchies for generations? And what did these new alliances mean for Denmark’s place on the world stage?King Christian IX of Denmark wasn’t just a ruler—he was the ultimate matchmak...
2025-02-1820 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?82 | Week 7 News: RyanAir, Fastelavnsboller, and Bike Theft (with Mike Walsh)This week, Mike Walsh rejoins Derek on the podcast to talk about the news in Denmark. You'll hear about the fallout of Ryanair's decision to pull out of two Danish airports over new taxes. In better news, you'll hear the best and worst fastelvansboller experiences including Mike's review of Burger King's 2024 attempt at a fastelavnsboller burger and which upcoming guest Derek joined for a sweet treat recently. We also discuss the new regulation allowing police to stop you and validate the ownership of your bicycle and what it could mean for individuals buying bikes online.Don’t...
2025-02-1121 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?81 | Week 6 News: Greenland Polling, Bomb Threats, and Aarhus's Pitch to InternationalsThis week Derek, Annie, and Briana team up to discuss some of the headlines from around Denmark including recent polling from Greenland and some scary reports of bomb threats in Danish schools. You'll hear a discussion on the future of automobiles in Copenhagen, the history of pedestrianized streets in the city centre and Annie's hot take on what you should do with your car. Finally, the panel discusses an ambitious plan by Aarhus to attract and expand its international community and the issues it could face in the process.Don’t forget to share this podcast wi...
2025-02-0424 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?80 | Denmark Was in Europe's Longest War and No One Knows (w/ Anders Morgenstierne)This week Derek is joined by Anders Morgenstierne, who has returned to WAYDID to discuss an obscure war from Danish history. Most Danes don't even know about this war - and that's because for most of history, no one in Denmark realized that it happened. During the period, Copenhagen was attacked twice and most of the Danish navy was destroyed. Despite all of that, for this particular war - which lasted 172 years and makes it the longest European war in history, there was not one single casualty.Enjoy this episode and don't forget this bizarre piece...
2025-01-2819 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?79 | Defending Denmark: Can Danes be a Little Too Sensitive?Derek, Brooke, and Conrad chime in on a recent viral post that claims Danes are overly defensive when it comes to your views on Denmark. The post of focus points out that Danish people are known to ask internationals living in Denmark what they think of their Danish lives, but aren't prepared to hear anything but a glowing review of the country. Even the most mild critiques are meant with deflections and defensive talking points according to the original post.The WAYDID panel gives their takes, experiences, and insights on the topic including regional traits that...
2025-01-2125 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?78 | Myth-Busting Denmark's Drunken Oil Diplomacy (with Jeff Bond)Have you ever heard the story of how Denmark could have had all the North Sea Oil reserves that Norway enjoys, if it wasn't for a sloppy negotiation by a drunken Danish diplomat? It's been recounted to Derek many times, ironically by intoxicated Danes who have a good laugh at their tipsy foreign policy - but how true is this story? Jeff Bond sits down to hear the real history behind this often-repeated story. Just where did the idea come from that a Danish diplomat was negotiating undersea oil fields with a belly full of booze and gave it...
2025-01-1428 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?77 | Could a Political Stunt Cost You Danish Citizenship?This week, we delve into a heated debate that's capturing attention across the nation: Should Denmark vet the democratic values of citizenship applicants through personal interviews? We explore the unprecedented case where three applicants were summoned for interviews based on their past social media posts, raising questions about legal principles, fairness, and human rights.All foreigners in the country need to keep up with this story! To help you understand the issue Derek is joined by Norwegian comedian Dharshika Christopher who also a legal background. The two explore what implications lie ahead from these unprecedented interviews...
2025-01-0733 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?76 | From Margrethe to Frederik: A Regal Review of Denmark’s Royal Family and What’s NextThis week, Brooke, Conrad, and Derek are joined by Anna Marie, host of the On Royals Podcast, for a chat about a monumental year for Denmark’s royal family! From Queen Margrethe II’s historic abdication on New Year's Eve to the coronation of King Frederik X in January, we dive into the highs and the lows of this transformative first year with Frederik on the throne.Conrad helps us understand how Denmark’s monarchy stacks up against the UK’s royals, Derek shares his thoughts on what an American Royal Family would be like, and Brooke g...
2024-12-3035 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?75 | Danish Christmas Culture Shocks (with Steven Feraru)This week Steven Feraru is back with Annie, Brooke, Conrad, and Derek to discuss the culture shocks and fun new experiences that internationals encounter during the Danish Christmas season. You'll learn about the things that surprised us the most when we dove into our first Christmas in Denmark, how to navigate your own Jul traditions, and why we think Denmark takes an inclusive approach to Christmas. You'll learn everything about Danish Christmas from the television shows to watch, foods to eat, and ways to blend traditions from your homeland with the Danish Christmas customs that may seem to clash...
2024-12-1727 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?74 | Week 50 News: Trouble in Denmark's Libraries and Flag-Based Nationalism (with Adrian MacKinder and Jeff Bond)This week, we're talking about the news and you'll hear about the shockingly high number of Danish librarians reporting anti-social behavior at work. Derek is joined by Jefferson Bond and Adrian Mackinder to dig deep into the problems faced when visiting some of Denmark's institutions of knowledge sharing. You'll learn what could 2025 laws could change how you get around Denmark and where Jeff can park, plus we discuss the recent ruling by Denmark on what flags can be displayed and how. Specifically you'll hear about the nationalistic tones that are preventing most non-Danish flags from being flown at all.
2024-12-1239 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?73 | Unwrapping the Norse Origins of Christmas with Adrian MacKinder and Jeff BondIn this festive and fascinating episode, Adrian Mackinder will unravel 12 pre-Christian traditions and Norse influences that shaped our understanding of Christmas today. From the wild celebrations of Yule to the symbolism of evergreen trees and the mythological roots of Santa’s sleigh, Adrian explains how ancient festivals and Norse mythology found their way into modern holiday customs.Along with Jefferson Bond and Derek Hartman, the episode blends humor, history, and the holiday spirit in one informative explainer.Mentioned:Adrian's book, Death and the Victorians: https://amzn.to/3QlpcQzJeff's Show on...
2024-12-1030 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?72 | Week 49 News: Workers' Rights in Denmark, Greenlandic in Parliament, and Leaf-Raking (with Anders Morgenstierne)In this episode we're catching you up on the news around Denmark. Conrad Molden explains why members of Danish Parliament are wearing headsets and takes us into Christiansborg Slot. Ye, he visited Danish Parliament this week at the invitation of a member of Folketinget. Comedian, Anders Morgenstierne, joins the discussion with stories of his time reporting from Christianborg while working for Go' Aften Danmark. Derek Hartman explains the workers' rights debates being stirred up after internationals working in Fyn were injured in a biogas accident, and Anders shares information about a recent leaf-raking accident. The table also reveals which...
2024-12-0327 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?71 | Retention Crisis: Why Don't People Stay in Denmark?Denmark struggles to retain internationals, with 64% leaving within five years and only 28% of international graduates staying post-graduation. In this episode, Brooke Black, Conrad Molden, and Derek Hartman dive into why so many expats leave Denmark, the cultural and systemic barriers they face, and what it means for Denmark’s aging population and economy. This episode explores how the €7 billion Fehmarn Belt Tunnel project is attracting internationals to Lolland and the municipality’s innovative Job-to-Partner program, which helps trailing partners integrate and find jobs. Could this be a model for national change? Is Lolland’s approach the key to turning the tide...
2024-11-2628 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?70 | Week 47 News (with Steven Feraru): Royals, Art, Skat, and Election ReactionsThis week you're getting the news in Denmark for week 47 with a full house and Steven Feraru at the table. We get to know Steven with a hilarious story of a doctor's visit gone wrong, Derek fills us in on the King of the Netherlands work visit to Denmark, Conrad explains the new skat previews. Brooke explains the new painting at Christianborg that's a dose of female empowerment and it's inspired Annie to start a new import export business. Oh, and Steven opened a can of worms by bringing up the American election, however this time the table finally...
2024-11-1933 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?69 | Moving From India to Denmark (with Kriti Prajapati)In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek Hartman sits down with Kriti Prajapati, a comedian from India who’s making waves in the Danish comedy scene. Since moving to Denmark in 2017, Kriti has co-produced Almost Danes, a hit comedy show that humorously tackles the quirks of Danish culture through the eyes of an international.Kriti shares her journey from engineering to comedy, shedding light on the challenges and joys of building a life in Denmark. Through her stand-up and public speaking, she’s found a unique way to bridge cultural divides, using humor as a...
2024-11-1230 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?68 | Week 45 News: Secret Drug Tests, Super Computers, and Bike Thieves #ReklameWe are breaking down all the weeks news and not mentioning the US Election at all! Conrad has a technology report about a Danish super computer that nobody really understands and Brooke has updates that influencers and marketing teams in Denmark need to be aware of, all from a little issue with Lily in Copenhagen. Derek has some important information for people are are biking or using the toilets in Denmark, and both could involve police - so make sure you listen and get up-to-date with the latest news in Denmark.Don’t forget to share th...
2024-11-0531 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?67 | Uhyggelig Dansk Halloween (with Jeff Bond)Derek is joined by comedian and actor, Jeff Bond to talk about the history of Halloween and how it's taken shape in Denmark and around the world. Throughout the discussion, Jeff decides what Halloween creature he would hire as an assistant and he assigns Derek a gangster name. You'll learn about the origins of the spooky holiday and what the future of Halloween means for Fastelavn. Derek weighs-in on whether Danes should be threatened by the emergence of a competing holiday or embrace it and Jeff pours out his feelings in an emotional monologue about global mono-culture and Sabrina...
2024-10-3134 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?66 | Reptilicus: The Danish Godzilla Movie You Need to WatchIn this episode, Conrad explains the story of a 1960s cult-classic, creature feature, Danish-American Godzilla knock off film that will blow you mind. He recently reviewed the film with Derek on YouTube and shares all the history and details with Annie and Kriti. You'll learn all about the epic cinematic masterpiece of the movie that is so so bad it's good.Conrad explains why the movie was shot twice and why many scenes are unnecessarily dubbed in English. Annie and Kriti develop a deep sympathy for the killer dinosaur that terrorizes all of Denmark, and Derek...
2024-10-2927 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?65 | Week 43 News: Don't Marry Your Cousins (with Jeff Bond)This week Derek is brining you the news in Denmark with comedian, actor, and friend of the show - Jeff Bond! You'll learn about the species of bird that Denmark is calling a conservation success story and the region of Europe that gave Danish pigeons their sexy looks. Jeff will offer incredible marriage advice directly from Folketinget - spoiler, the Swedes do it much worse, and Derek shares information on the EU law that could have a major impact on your food-delivery app employees. Along the way you'll hear about the founding of Rome, advice for...
2024-10-2232 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?64 | Ghost Stories From Denmark's Most Haunted CastleThis week we jump right into spooky season with the tales of four different ghosts haunting a castle in Denmark. Paranormal skeptic and OG host of the podcast, Mike Walsh, is back in the co-host seat to share his thoughts and reactions to Derek's Danish ghost stories. Whether or not you're familiar with the tales from Denmark's castle, Dragsholm Slot, you're in for a scary retelling of the haunted history of this Danish dwelling. It's a modern day hotel and restaurant with a dark and chilling past that will put you in the perfect mood for Halloween season.
2024-10-1519 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?63 | Do Danish People Smell More Than Normal?This week, Brooke shares a disturbing story of how the use of Fabreeze air-freshener sparked conflict with her Danish husband. Like any couple would want, we brought their issues to this podcast for public debate and ridicule. At the core of the issue is whether scented products are appropriate or should be avoided at all costs. We have noticed, with no scientific evidence, that Danes seem to be more sensitive to smells and scented products than people in our homelands. Is there data to back this up, or are they just more vocal about their displeasure and aversion to...
2024-10-0829 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?62 | Week 40 News: Is Anyone Safe in Denmark?It's week 40 and your esteemed WAYDID Roundtable of News is full of laughs and information you probably could miss but won't want to. Conrad Molden discusses which new country has been brought into Denmark's MobilePay system and Kriti Prajipati shares the new way in which your children may be disciplined in Danish schools. Annie Samples will explain which celebrity couple is being criticized for letting their children run around Denmark without supervision, and Derek Hartman explains which North Jutland city has stashes of World War II era weapons and ammunitions.Don’t forget to share this po...
2024-10-0137 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?61 | Why Don't Danes Like You? Part 2 (with Ira Sylvester)Why don't Danes like you? We'll try to help you figure that out as we finish discussing the topic with comedian Ira Sylvester. In this conversation we'll examine how language, humor, and cultural differences play a role in how Danes feel about you. This episode may not win you the admiration of every Danish person in Denmark, but it will at least make you laugh and feel like you're not alone in the area of driving Danes crazy.Make sure to follow the podcast and help us grow the show by sharing it with a friend!
2024-09-2622 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?60 | How Denmark took down McDonald'sIn this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Brooke dig into a labor showdown you’ve probably never heard of: McDonald's versus Danish unions in the 1980s. What happens when a fast-food giant tries to bypass some of the best worker protections in the world? Let’s just say Denmark had a few surprises up its sleeve and McDonald's wasn't lovin' it. Come for the 80's nostalgia and stay for the rarely shared story of this David vs. Goliath battle that reshaped McDonald's in Denmark—and what it means for Danish fast food today....
2024-09-2422 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?59 | Why Don't Danes Like You? Part 1 (with Ira Sylvester)Comedian Ira Sylvester returns to WAYDID for a hilarious conversation about how to drive a Dane crazy. Derek and Ira break down some unwritten rules of social etiquette in Denmark that are often violated by unaware foreigners. Derek explains how his personal preferences have flipped while living in Denmark and that many of the rules he used to break are now dreadfully important to maintain. Ira gets deep and personal about the many facades that we put forth in life, including how the way we act in front of the Danes may be different than the way we act...
2024-09-1926 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?58 | Are Danes as funny as they think? Navigating Danish humor (part 2)This episode continues the conversation with Lita and Helen, authors of Danish Humor: Sink or Swim. In the discussion, Derek learns more about the positive sides of Danish humor as Lita and Helen explain the ways in which humor can help us find camaraderie. No mater our culture, we all laugh and benefit from humor. The challenge for internationals living in Denmark is finding out how to interpret the humor they are surrounded by. Since Danes have the benefit of growing up with this humor, there is less of an adjustment, but our Danish friends and colleagues need to...
2024-09-1724 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?57 | Week 37 News: Are Danish pigs okay, and why is Denmark tropical?Grab a cup of coffee and join Brooke, Conrad, and Derek for a discussion of the latest news stories out of Denmark. Brooke explains how AI was used in a recent study of Danish pigs to determine their mental health status. The results are fascinating and may surprise you! Derek explains the details of Copenhagen's potential bid for the 2036 Olympic Games including where the archery events would be held and whether or not the removable stadium would be made of LEGO. Conrad fills us all in on why Denmark's climate has recently reached tropical level and what that could...
2024-09-1224 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?56 | Are Danes as funny as they think? Navigating Danish humor (part 1)This week, Derek sits down with authors Lita Lundquist and Helen Dyrbye who literally wrote the book on Danish humor, one of the hardest things for foreigners in Denmark to learn. Derek gets feedback on how he handled an interaction with Danish colleagues early in his time living in Denmark. Lita and Helen share valuable insights into Danish culture when it comes to humor and how to navigate the direct nature of Danes. You'll learn what to avoid and how to handle Danish humor in your professional and personal life as well as the way people use humor to...
2024-09-1026 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?55 | Claus Christensen from Demenskoret on DR (part 2)In part 2 of Derek's interview with Claus Christensen, from the new DRTV series, Demenskoret, you will learn about the health benefits of singing and how studies are being done to measure the impact of singing and song on patients with dementia. Claus discusses the way that singing fosters community in Danish culture and how trust is a byproduct. You'll learn how the dementia choir selected songs and ways in which the arrangement and style of the each song brought out different emotions for the audience. Speaking of emotions, this interview will have you laughing, crying, and learning more about...
2024-09-0526 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?54 | Claus Christensen from Demenskoret on DR (part 1)This week Derek sits down with star of the new DR show, Demenskoret, Claus Christensen. With a long resume as a singer, songwriter, and choir director, Claus has taken on his most rewarding endeavour yet - leading a choir of patients living with dementia. You'll learn singing and song are such a big part of culture in Denmark. Claus also shares how they're important in human biology human biology and the science that inspired the dementia choir concept.Claus shares how singing helped him overcome a childhood stutter and inspires him to lead others in song...
2024-09-0326 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?53 | The Danish border you probably can't find on a mapWe welcome back Mike Walsh to explain the fascinating story of Denmark's newest land border with an unexpected neighbor – Canada! Mike takes us through the discovery and exploration of the remote Hans Island, a series of back-and-forth disputes between the two nations, and how a light-hearted "whiskey war" eventually resulted in the world's third-shortest land border. It's a wild story of history that is quintessentially Danish (and Canadian) passive-aggressive diplomacy. Mike and Derek cover this weirdly fascinating tale of geographical adventure through humor and unexpected facts that feel stranger than fiction.Don’t forget to share this...
2024-08-2721 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?52 | Culture shocks from summer in Denmark with Brooke BlackThis week, Annie and Derek are joined by Brooke Black, an American mom who flew from Los Angeles to rural Denmark during the pandemic and never left. Brooke is married to a Dane and has spent years living as a cross-cultural family in the States, Jutland, and Copenhagen. Recently, she discussed the culture shocks around summer in Denmark with readers of Business Insider, and in this episode she expands on her article. Brooke explains how she still struggles with fully unplugging from work during summer holiday, how time away from professional obligations shapes her family, and...
2024-08-2042 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?51 | Noodle Gate and Denmark's Selective Food Regulation (with Conrad Molden) Conrad Molden joins Annie and Derek to taste-test some the recently-banned Buldak ramen noodles. The trio discuss "Noodle Gate" - Denmark's decision to restrict the sale of several Buldak noodle varieties in the Danish market while allowing15-year-old meat to hit the shelves of Danish grocery stores and permit unfettered indoor-smoking at many bars. What was the reason behind the noodle ban, and its quick reversal? Don’t forget to share this podcast with any friends who have made the move to Denmark.For more clips and tips on living in Denmark and fo...
2024-08-1321 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?50 | Danish Fashion and Fashion Week Eyelash FiascosThis week we Annie and Derek are joined by Anna Gyetvai, a Hungarian-born, Denmark-based makeup artist and former fashion designer who's worked with top fashion brands and is gearing up for Copenhagen Fashion Week. She shares behind the scenes stories of working in the industry and the fashion show she worked that made her take two years off of Fashion Week.In this episode, we’ll uncover:Behind the Scenes at Copenhagen Fashion Week: with insider details on what it’s like to be a makeup artist during one of the most anticipated fashion events of t...
2024-08-0638 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?49 | 10,000 Krone Pyramid with Coping in CopenhagenGet ready for the cross-over episode you never realized you were missing! Annie and Derek are joined by Abby, Marius, and Owen, the hilarious hosts of the Coping in Copenhagen podcast. We linked up for a laugh-filled, super group style, episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark. In this episode, Derek hosts an incredible game show based on the $100,000 Pyramid with a Danish twist and a lot of creative clues and ridiculous guesses.Along the way, Derek presents a deep discussion on H.C. Andersen's dirty little habits and Marius describes chocolate milk in a...
2024-07-3031 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?48 | Why is Denmark paying tourists instead of squirting them with water?This week Mike and Derek discuss the growing trend of hostility against tourists and the factors behind over-tourism. This includes a new program Copenhagen is testing to incentivize sustainable tourism and good behavior from visitors to the city. But is this initiative as altruistic as it seems, or a McKinsey consultant's wet dream and a solution in search of a problem. Plus, what are anti-tourism "activists" with water guns really upset about?Don’t forget to share this podcast with any friends who have made the move to Denmark.For more clips and ti...
2024-07-2325 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?47 | Does summer in Denmark suck?This week, Annie and Derek debate an annual issue - does summer in Denmark suck? Which Danish summer do you think of; trash-filled tents blowing in the wind around Roskilde Festival, or drinking wine with friends in a lush park under the late night sun? Are your friends even still in town or have they disappeared on holiday? This episode will give you an honest perspective on what to make of summers in Denmark.There are countless pros and cons, and they all come up on this episode. Annie recaps her experience at CopenHell and why...
2024-07-1631 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?46 | Who are Annie and Derek and why are they hosting this podcast?This week Mike is back in the hosting chair to interview Annie and Derek about their experiences as content creators in Denmark. You'll learn so much more about your weekly hosts and how Annie and Derek got into the influencer game and took their talents to What Are You Doing in Denmark. The discussion goes through the highs and lows of sharing your life online as a foreigner living in Denmark.Annie and Derek explain their career paths, life experiences, and the zigs and zags that took them to Denmark and how sharing it online became...
2024-07-0933 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?45 | Jutland vs. Copenhagen with Conrad Molden (part 2)This week, comedian Conrad Molden is back at the table with Derek to shed some light on the high key rivalry between Jutland and Copenhagen. Having lived in Jutland or Jylland for over a decade, Conrad now calls Copenhagen home. As you can imagine, he is the perfect guest to share some cultural insights and culture clashes that he's felt living in these two regions of Denmark.To understand more of the background, Derek and Conrad dive deep into the history of the Storebælt, which finally connected Sjælland to Jylland (and Fyn) in the 1990s...
2024-07-0226 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?44 | That time when Denmark won the EurosMike Walsh is back this week to tell us a story about the time when Denmark won the European Football Championship. The story harkens back to the summer of 1992, when a non-qualifying Danish national football team was activated to play in the Euros and scraped their way to the championship. Mike retells the story in all of its glory, with interesting historical context, and correct the record on aspect that the movie version of this tale exaggerates.Don’t forget to share this podcast with any friends who have made the move to Denmark....
2024-06-2518 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?43 | Jutland vs. Copenhagen with Conrad Molden (part 1)This week Derek is joined by British comedian and friend of the show Conrad Molden to discuss the never-ending rivalry between Copenhagen and the rest of Denmark, namely Jutland. In his 11 years of life in Denmark, Conrad has spent the majority living in Jutland and recently moved to Copenhagen while still touring all over the country from Bornholm to Thisted. If you're looking for mentions of remote Danish towns - maybe the one you live in, you will love this episode. Are you a foreigner with questions about the regional differences in Denmark and how you've...
2024-06-1935 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?42 | How is life in Denmark for international students?This week, Derek and Annie are joined by Rachel Warren, who you may know from TikTok as SheIsLostInIkea. Rachel is living in Denmark after studying in Denmark twice. She first studied in Denmark as part of an exchange program while working towards her Bachelors degree which prompted her to pursue a Masters degree in Denmark. In this episode you'll learn about the experience of studying in Denmark and how Rachel found personal and professional success in Copenhagen after her studies finished.Annie and Rachel play a game to guess which notable celebrities attended university themselves, and...
2024-06-1141 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?41 | Is working in Denmark REALLY as good as they say?This week, Derek and Annie welcome back Mike Walsh to talk about what it’s really like to work in Denmark. As a former host of the show, Mike has not only worked in the studio, but has worked in Denmark as well as hiring and managing both Danish and international workers. He shares all of his insights of navigating the work culture in Denmark and around Europe as he has managed and visited international work sites. You’ll learn more about the culture clashes one may face in Denmark and learn whether or not the famou...
2024-06-0441 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?40 | We need to talk about June 9thThorbern Alexander Klingert, a Danish candidate for the EU Parliament, is back to talk with Derek about all the EU and US elections coming at us in 2024. As a candidate himself, Thorbern describes the issues that he wants to take to Brussels if he's sent there to represent Denmark. He also details his opinions on the upcoming elections in the United States and gets Derek's opinions on the state of American politics as the 2024 rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump looms large. For more clips and tips on living in Denmark and follow us on s...
2024-05-2831 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?39 | The 2024 election you SHOULD be talking aboutThis week, Derek is joined by Thorbern Alexander Klingert, a Danish candidate for the EU Parliament. He’s spent years advocating for the international community in Denmark to make sure they had information on voting, and he’s taking his passion for democracy to the next level - and hopefully to Brussels. As a candidate for the EU Parliament, Thorbern explains his stance on many issues facing Denmark and why Danes and residents of Denmark should be more focused on the upcoming EU elections. Thorbern explains the personal experience that led him to focus on expanding voter...
2024-05-2127 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?38 | The MANY things we wish we knew before moving to DenmarkThis week, Derek and Annie welcome back Mike - a What Are You Doing in Denmark OG! Around the table, your hosts and former host discuss all the things that would have been nice to know before moving to Denmark. Of course some pleasant surprises are in the mix, and the goal is to have some laughs and share some advice, including the things that are still adjustments for us, even after living in Denmark for years.Annie shares the new pieces of clothing that have been integrated into her children’s wardrobe, and Derek discusses al...
2024-05-1433 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?37 | Denmark in Eurovision, the encoreWe’re back with part two of our conversation with Andres Artiles Jerrik, who has been working closely with Danish musical acts like Reiley, Aura Dione, and SABA on their Eurovision visuals and music. We discuss what makes a good Eurovision song - broad popularity or staying true to the local culture of the nation it represents and what the Danish audience can expect from their representation in Malmö. Andres is spilling even more tea and sharing all of his opinions on this year’s show. You’re about to hear our top picks, Eurovision predictions, and our...
2024-05-0721 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?36 | What Denmark gets right and wrong about the Eurovision Song ContestThis week Derek is joined by Andres Artiles Jerrik, a stylist, designer, author, and TV personality. He spills all the tea about putting his talents behind Denmark’s most recent efforts in the Eurovision Song Contest. You’ll hear him talk about his songwriting, which was displayed at this year’s Dansk Melodi Grand Prix, Denmark’s national Eurovision selection contest. Andres worked on the song Mirror Ball of Hope with musical artist Aura Dione. He shares how the song came to fruition and the inspirations behind its incredible stage presentation. Andres also worked with last year’s Da...
2024-05-0631 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?35 | How do you integrate in Denmark AND maintain your own cultural identity?Derek and Annie are back with Nanna Hauch, a licensed family and couples therapist who specializes in helping the international community in Denmark. Annie receives advice on how families can stay connected to their own culture while integrating into Danish society. Nanna shares some of the challenges that her family faced while living abroad and when repatriating and moving back to Denmark. Derek gets advice on how Danish work culture can become an adjustment and mental health factor for internationals working in Denmark. Once again, Nanna provides valuable insights into the unique mental health challenges faced b...
2024-04-3031 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?34 | Mental health struggles for foreigners in DenmarkThis week, Nanna Hauch aka the Expat Hero, joins Derek and Annie to address an important topic - mental health for foreigners living in Denmark. She discusses the unique mental health challenges that the international community in Denmark is faced with. Nanna brings her expertise as a licensed psychotherapist to the What Are You Doing in Denmark community and offers advice on a wide range of issues faced by international families including Derek and Annie.Nanna describes how her own experiences living abroad and repatriating influenced her desire to help other expats face mental health struggles...
2024-04-2438 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?33 | Moving to Denmark versus moving to Finland (with Chico Muya)This week, Mike Walsh is back in the hosting chair with Derek and special guest Chico Muya. As a fellow international living in the Nordics, Chico pumps out hilarious content sharing his experiences as a South African in Finland. He brings the same energy to this week’s episode as Derek, Mike and Chico share laughs about nudity, making friends, and the Nordic obsession with salted licorice.Besides the laughs, Chico shares the heart-warming aspects of his love story with Finland and how he made it feel like home. You’ll hear why he thinks the Finn...
2024-04-1837 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?32 | Moving to Denmark as a child and the political challenges for foreigners in DenmarkLyndsay Jensen, the founder and editor of The International, is back in the studio with Annie and Derek to talk about the political changes in how foreigners in Denmark are treated and perceived. She recently spoke at Folkemødet on the needs of internationals living in Denmark and their important place in the Danish economy and society at large.In the discussion, Lyndsay references her eldest son, Connor, who moved to Denmark as a child and has been shaped by multiple cultures throughout his life. It seemed only right to have Connor join the conversation and s...
2024-04-0924 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?31 | How do foreigners moving to Denmark find a soft landing?Annie and Derek are joined this week by Lyndsay Jensen, the founder and editor of The International, an online magazine dedicated to helping foreigners living in Denmark find their way. Lyndsay shares her story of moving to Denmark after growing up as a Brit living in South Africa. You could say she’s been an expat her whole life. After a decade of life in South Africa with her Danish husband, she expected a soft landing in Denmark. Instead she found herself in a sink or swim existence.After facing the challenges of adj...
2024-04-0330 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?30 | They asked you WHAT?! Job interviews in Denmark, Danish work culture myths, and much more.Can potential employers ask you if you plan to have kids? Why do job interviews feel so informal in Denmark? Is there bias or racism in the hiring process? Leslea Petersen, the Founder and CEO of English Job Denmark is back at the table with Derek and Annie to answer all of your questions on finding a job and working in Denmark. She offers advice on adapting your CV and preparing for a job interview in Denmark. This episode is for anyone struggling to find a job in Denmark with questions remaining after Leslea’s initial epi...
2024-03-2525 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?29 | Help! I’m in Denmark and I can’t find a job!Why doesn’t your CV get any response from Danish employers? How do your skills and certifications land you a job in Denmark? Is there any hope for landing a job in the Danish workforce? This week, Annie and Derek are joined by Leslea Petersen, the Founder and CEO of English Job Denmark. She tells her story of how she found herself living in Denmark and struggling to find a job. Her “moving to Denmark story” and “finding a job in Denmark” will sound familiar and relatable to a lot of people. Unlike most people, it led her to...
2024-03-1926 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?28 | Why is making friends in Denmark like dating?This week, Annie and Derek continue their conversation about making friends in Denmark and why it’s so hard. Annie discusses the mixed emotions of relief and overwhelm she feels when visiting her native United States, and jumping back into a very social culture with different social boundaries. She also explains why her son struggled to socialize with Danish classmates as he transitioned from American schooling to Danish schooling. What did it mean when his teacher described him as “too American for his peers”?Derek explains the reason that you should approach making friends in Denmark the sa...
2024-03-1327 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?27 | You can’t make any friends in Denmark because you’re a peach.How do you make friends in a country where locals prefer not to talk to anyone they don’t already know? The Expat Insider Survey ranks Denmark 53rd out of 53 countries in the subcategory of finding friends and 66% of those surveyed reported it challenging to make friends with locals when moving abroad to Denmark. While it’s not impossible to make connections in Denmark, those numbers aren’t made up and this episode will help you defy the odds and understand the reality of moving to Denmark without a friend network.Annie and Derek break down the cu...
2024-03-0632 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?26 | How does Janteloven impact you at work, school, and in Danish society?Derek and Annie are once again joined by comedian, Conrad Molden, to discuss Janteloven. The three practice ‘Jante Math’ (a spin on the online trend of ‘Girl Math’) by praising each other’s achievements and downplaying them in true Janteloven fashion. Why was it so uncomfortable for them? Discussion about the moment in history that the concept was named helps to unlock some cultural context around these societal rules.The conversation continues around the ways that Janteloven can seep into your life. For foreigners living in Denmark, this is commonly concentrated in school and at work, but is oft...
2024-02-2728 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?25 | How can you be the absolute BEST at Janteloven?This week Derek and Annie are joined by comedian, Conrad Molden, to tackle a source of culture clash and confusion for people moving to Denmark - Janteloven. The trio define the unofficial “Laws of Jante” and how the social code came to be so pervasive in Danish culture and Scandinavia at large. Particularly, the ramifications for international residents of Denmark are explained.Is Janteloven good for Denmark? Does it adversely impact foreigners living in Denmark? What are the pros and cons of this social code of conduct? This episode will give you a deeper understanding of the...
2024-02-2127 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?24 | How to move to Denmark for your partner but make it all about YOUThis week’s episode dives right back into our topic of being a trailing spouse when moving to Denmark. In it, Annie and Derek continue covering the unique challenges of following your partner to another country and how it can impact the relationship. They share the lessons they’ve learned along the way and how this massive change could have been a huge relationship stressor. Instead, it ended up making their partnerships stronger than before. This episode will give you tools to face these challenges as a couple with real experiences from Derek and Annie as well...
2024-02-1422 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?23 | You fell in love and they want you to move to Denmark in 90 daysLife as a “trailing spouse” is mostly incredible, and looks like it from the outside. Still, it’s full of challenges, emotional ups and downs, and can put a strain on relationships and families. Derek and Annie have been through it, and open up about their life after moving to Denmark for their partners. This episode will help you understand the challenges that you face if you move abroad for someone else, with tips and advice on getting through them. Derek and Annie discuss their personal experiences and how they dealt with these adjustments.Any f...
2024-02-0633 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?22 | You’ll never be Danish, but who cares? with Keri BloomfieldAuthor Keri Bloomfield joins Derek and Mike for more real talk about living in Denmark and how it taught her how to be more of herself. Sharing stories from her new book, Nothing Like a Dane, they discuss the difficulties of learning the Danish language and Danish culture as internationals in Denmark. The episode focuses on the long journey to realizing that foreigners in Denmark don’t need to change who they are, and Denmark is much better off when they don’t.Follow the pod on Instagram: https://instagram.com/waydidpodFind us on Y...
2024-01-2935 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?21 | Does Denmark Have an Integration Problem? with Keri BloomfieldAuthor Keri Bloomfield joins Derek and Mike for some real talk about moving to Denmark, what Denmark gets right and wrong about integration, and the stories that inspired her new book, Nothing Like a Dane. Together they discuss the realities of life in Denmark for foreigners - both the good and the bad, as well as our thoughts on why Denmark has no problem attracting international residents, but struggles to retain them and why it’s becoming a major issue.Follow the pod on Instagram: https://instagram.com/waydidpodFind us on...
2024-01-1944 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?20 | Sending Your Child to School in a Foreign CountryIn this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Mike interviews friends of the show, Annie Samples and Adrian MacKinder to learn more about the differences in schooling and education systems in Denmark. Annie is an American mom raising her four kids with her American spouse while Adrian is a British father raising his two kids with a Danish spouse. They share their experiences, advice, and a candid look at what it’s like moving to another country and enrolling your children in a foreign school with a different system, culture, and language from your own. F...
2024-01-0817 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?19 | 2023 WrappedIn this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark, Derek and Mike sit down to recap season one of WAYDID and react to some of their favorite clips and discussions from 2023. The two share laughs, advice, realizations, and some serious moments as they reflect on the year and season one. Some never-before-shared clips are mixed into some of the most viral moments of WADID season one with commentary from your favorite guests like Erin Chapman, Ira Sylvester, Annie Samples, and Conrad Molden.WAYDID will be back with Season 2 in January of 2024, God Nytår!
2023-12-2837 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?18 | Diane in Denmark - Part 2Diane in Denmark is back this week to share more tips with Derek on getting through the winter holidays and preparing for the New Year. Derek quizzes Diane on which celebrities are secretly anti-Christmas based on their public comments about the holiday. Diane also lets us know how to go into the new year with clear goals and resolutions that are actually achievable. She even offers her expert life coaching advice to several beloved Christmas characters who need it the most like Kevin McAllister from Home Alone and Frosty the Snowman. Follow the pod on Instagram: h...
2023-12-1934 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?17 | Diane in Denmark - part 1This week Derek is joined one on one with Diane in Denmark, the incredible life coach from Scotland who now calls Denmark home. Diane explains the habit of winterbathing to a hypothetical American listener and then explains her hot and cold thoughts on various seasonal activities and trends associated with Christmas and New Years from ugly sweaters to dry January. You’ll hear Diane’s story of moving to Denmark for love over 20 years ago and raising a family in a new country and culture.We focus on Diane’s lessons from life coaching and how the co...
2023-12-1236 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?16 | Jeff Bond - part 2This week Derek and Mike are joined once again by the multi-talented actor and comedian, Jeff Bond. Derek tests Mike and Jeff to see if they can recognize fake Christmas movie descriptions from real ones and everyone discovers the true meaning of Christmas.Laughs abound as Jeff, Derek, and Mike discuss all the things you might do at the holidays that could make you Danish. Everyone shares their war stories from the conditions of New Years Eve in Denmark and debate how many types of advent calendars are too many.Follow the pod...
2023-12-0437 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?15 | Jeff Bond - part 1This week actor and comedian, Jeff Bond, joins Mike and Derek in the studio. He shares the story of how his life in Denmark came to be from a part in the Crazy Christmas Cabaret, one of the most successful theater productions in Europe with an annual home at Glassalen in Tivoli Gardens.Jeff, Derek, and Mike share their most annoying jobs during the holiday season and all of the things they love and despise about Christmas. Jeff shares his experiences working as an actor and comedian in Denmark versus the UK. He explains the lessons...
2023-11-2844 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?14 | Annie Samples - part 2Annie Samples aka Annie in Eventyrland is back at the table with Derek and Mike to talk more about being a mom in Denmark compared to the United States. Specifically, Annie tells us about her experiences with pregnancy and childbirth in both Denmark and America. Along the way you can share some laughs about 90s American television shows and how their titles were translated into Danish. Annie gets personal about the journey to having her daughter in Denmark, and the support that she received in the process. There were a lot of decisions along the way t...
2023-11-2142 min
What Are You Doing in Denmark?13 | Annie Samples - part 1This week Annie Samples joins Mike and Derek in the studio, but you may know her as Annie in Eventyrland. That’s the name she uses while taking over TikTok and Instagram by sharing her life as an American mother raising her four kids in Denmark. She opens up about the highs and lows of living in Denmark as an immigrant and her path to becoming a content creator. Mike, Derek, and Annie discuss some of their run-ins with American police - and you’ll find out which one of them ended up handcuffed in the back...
2023-11-1451 min