Life in Norway Show

Life in Norway Show Episode 83: Buying a house in Norway is not something you might think about early in your relocation, but for today’s guest it was the main reason they chose to move.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/buying-a-house-podcast/

Christoph Graf is from Switzerland, and a big reason he chose to move to the Oslo region with his Norwegian wife was because of the better value housing than in his home country.

On this episode, we talk about the house buying process. We cover research, viewing, and bidding. We also chat about some of the other reasons Christoph chose to relocate, including easy access to nature.

Life in Norway Show Episode 82: Florencia Meinardo from ‘El Podcast de Noruega’ joins us to talk about her relocation from Argentina, and the experience of native Spanish speakers in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/spanish-speaking-community/

Originally from Buenos Aires, Florencia spent some time living in the US before deciding to make Norway her home together with her Spanish partner. We talk about the relocation process, Florencia’s decision to learn Norwegian as quickly as possible, and what life in Norway is like as a native Spanish speaker.

Originally from Canada, Kristine moved to Trondheim with her partner and is now happily settled working in research. But it hasn't all been plain sailing for her.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/challenges-of-moving-to-trondheim-podcast/

Kristine arrived in Norway just weeks before the pandemic, which led to a unique relocation experience. Everything from meeting new people to learning Norwegian suddenly became more of a challenge.

On today's show, we talk about what to expect when job hunting as a foreigner, some of the cultural barriers you’ll need to overcome, and the challenge of learning Norwegian.

We also cover the things that Kristine likes about living in Trondheim, and those things she still finds challenging.

We often feature interviews with people relocating to Norway from the U.S., or like me, from the U.K. Today I welcome Surendra Thapaliya to the show for a different kind of story. He’s originally from Nepal, and moved to Norway in 2016 to study at BI, the Norwegian Business School.

He’s since gone from strength to strength and now lives with his wife in Oslo, where he has a senior marketing position. 

We talk about studying in Oslo, the differences between life in Nepal and life in Norway, and his own projects helping other from Nepal study abroad.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/moving-from-nepal-to-norway/

Links from the Show:

Life in Norway Show Episode 79: Abby Noble shares her inspiring story of planning exactly how she would find a job in Norway, obtaining a job-seeker permit, and finding her ideal job in an Oslo architecture firm.

Moving to Norway is a dream for many, but finding a job is often the biggest barrier. Today I’m joined by Abby Noble, an American who moved to Norway without a job in order to find one. She applied for Norway’s job-seeker visa in order to carry out her plan. She joins me on the show today to talk about the visa, and her process for finding work in the architecture industry in Oslo.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/job-seeker-permit-success/

Life in Norway Show Episode 78: Daniela Laguniak, an expedition leader with Havila Voyages, tells us about her relocation to Northern Norway and her working life on the Norwegian coastal route.

Originally from Germany, she is fluent in three languages and lives in a remote part of Finnmark, Northern Norway. Daniela worked a seasonal tourism job at the North Cape in 2012 and then made the decision to move to Norway permanently. She now lives in Tana, one of the most remote parts of Arctic Norway, with her Sami partner.

She also talks about her working life on board the Havila Polaris, where she works for 22 days, followed by 22 days off. It's a shift pattern that wouldn't suit everyone, but it suits Daniela perfectly.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/moving-from-germany-to-arctic-norway/

This is episode 77 of the Life in Norway Show. Moving to Norway from outside Europe poses a whole heap of challenges, not least convincing an employer to take a chance on you.

Today I’m joined by Isabelle Loh, originally from Singapore and having relocated to Oslo with her Norwegian partner, she shared her frustrations about finding a job on LinkedIn, and drew a big response. 

We talk about life in Oslo, how she’s gone about the job search and how that has changed over time, and some advice for fellow job-seekers.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/moving-from-singapore-to-oslo/

Life in Norway Show #76: From the Sami Parliament and efforts to keep the languages alive to the importance of handicrafts and song, we hear all about Sami culture in 2024.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/sami-culture-podcast/

The recent wind turbine controversy has brought Sami culture and indigenous rights back into the headlines here in Norway, and around the world.

Bodø is about to start its year as European Capital of Culture, and the team has put Sami culture at the very heart of the program. So, who better to introduce us to the various aspects of Sami culture than Maria Hernes Bær, the coordinator of the Sami program for Bodø 2024.

We talk about Sami identity, some elements of the culture including what tourists experience and what they don’t, and the plans to showcase Sami culture at Bodø 2024.

Life in Norway Show Episode 75: One of the most common questions I receive at Life in Norway is about retirement, specifically the idea of moving to Norway to retire.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/retirement-to-northern-norway/

Now, while at the moment I plan to retire here, that’s not the same thing as moving here when already retired. I always thought that was a difficult thing to do, but a Life in Norway reader recently got in touch to share their story, and I immediately invited them on to the show. Not only have they retired to Norway, but they’ve retired to a remote part of Northern Norway.

In today’s show I talk to Trevor Rulton about the benefits of challenges of living in a remote area, what everyday life is like, the admin process of moving to Norway, and lots more.

This show is going to be a little bit different because I don’t have a guest, it’s just me, as I look ahead to all things Norway in 2024.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/norway-in-2024-podcast/

I’ll talk a little about what to expect for those of you planning a trip to Norway in 2024, plus information on what’s changing for those of us who live here in Norway. Finally I’ll talk a little bit about what you can expect from us here at Life in Norway over the coming year.

First things first, if you’re not already a member at Life in Norway, head on over to lifeinnorway.net/weekly. You’ll join more than 17,000 people who receive our popular Norway Weekly newsletter every Tuesday morning.

Life in Norway Show Episode #73: Agnes Erickson joins the podcast to talk about her move from California to Norway, and what life is like in a small town on the south coast.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/living-in-mandal-podcast/

Agnes works in the marketing team at Norrøna House, the headquarters of Norwegian outdoor clothing brand Norrøna. She works from Oslo a couple days per week and works the rest of the time in Mandal.

Mandal is a small Norwegian town of about 10,000 people on the southern coast of Norway, about 30 minutes west of Kristiansand. As with many southern coastal towns, Mandal is known for its white, wooden houses, beaches, and busy harbour.

Life in Norway Show Episode #72: A repatriate to Norway joins the show to chat about her experiences returning to Norway after many years abroad, and how mentoring can help foreigners find employment in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/work-mentoring-podcast/

Tone Indrelid was born in Norway but spent many, many years living overseas in India, Oman, Syria and Borneo before she and her family returned to Norway.

She now puts her years of experience as a anthropologist, interculturalist and language instructor to good use by becoming project leader in Stavanger for the organisation Sammen om en jobb. We talk about Tone’s experiences, some of the challenges in adapting and finding work in Norway, and how a mentoring program could help you.

Sammen om en jobb: https://www.sammenomenjobb.no/

Life in Norway Show Episode #71: Two recent hires in Norwegian gaming company Riddlebit Software join us to talk about game development and their journey to working in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/working-in-norwegian-gaming/

Today I’m joined by two newcomers to Norway who are working in a small games development studio here in Trondheim. I have got to know both Jordan originally from Texas and Lyubov from Belarus over the past months as they work in the same coworking space as me. We talk about the gaming industry in Norway, how they found a job in a small games studio and what life is like here in Trondheim.

Read more about Setback: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1119780/Setback/

Read more about Riddlebit Software: https://www.riddlebit.net/

Life in Norway Show Episode #70: A US-Poland dual citizen joins the show to chat through her process of moving to Norway, and why she wants to share what she’s learned with you.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/unlock-norway-podcast/

Gabriella Mikiewicz is the founder of Unlock Norway, which she created to help fellow newcomers understand the country better. She said her experience of living in Norway has been enriched by her Norwegian partner and friends, who have given her so much content and context to understand the country better.

Life in Norway Show Episode #69: Captain Victor Stoica of the Fred Olsen Cruise Lines ship MS Borealis chats about life at sea, the responsibility of captaining a cruise ship and his favourite parts of Norway.

I’m just back from a two-week cruise to the north of Norway in search of the northern lights. I’ll write much more about the journey and experience in the weeks to come, but in the meantime I have an interesting interview for you.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/cruise-ship-captain/

Life in Norway Show Episode #68: Lasse Vangstein of Havila Voyages joins the show to talk about the Norwegian Coastal Voyage and the new Havila vessels introduced over the past year.

The Norwegian coastal voyage has grown in popularity over the last decade. While still providing a vital transport service for cargo and local passengers, travellers from all over the world to come to Norway to experience the full coastal voyage. For many years Hurtigruten has been the only operator along the route. Now, Havila Voyages are putting brand new ships into service and travellers have a choice. Lasse Vangstein of Havila Voyages joins the show to talk about the history of the coastal service, what makes the trip so special and attractive to international tourists, and what Havila's new ships have to offer.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/havila-voyages-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode #67: We speak to an American ice hockey player living in Norway about ice hockey and how the sport differs in the UK, Germany and Norway. American Jordan George plays for Nidaros Hockey in Trondheim and also works in the club's marketing team. Previously he played professional hockey for several teams in Germany and Denmark and began by playing college hockey in the US.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/ice-hockey-jordan-george-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode #66: What is like to learn Norwegian as a teenager in the US and then move to Norway 20 years later? Find out on the latest episode of our podcast. Today's guest is Kari Nixon, a scholar of medical humanities and Victorian literature. She currently holds a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at NTNU here in Trondheim, Norway.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/learning-norwegian-at-summer-camp/

Life in Norway Show Episode #65: Norway is known worldwide as a great destination for discovering the great outdoors. Today we chat about how to make the most of those opportunities with today's guest, Kevin J Rosenberg. He runs tour company IAG Adventures and wants more people to discover the natural beauty in Norway and the other Nordic countries.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/adventure-travel-podcast/

Starting a business in Norway is challenging enough at the best of times. But doing so as an immigrant is a path that's full of uncertainties.

Today we’re talking about a gap in Norway’s immigration rules which entrepreneurs can easily fall into and find themselves forced to leave Norway despite having built a life here.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/startup-visa/

Life in Norway Show Episode 62: Peter Betlem from the University Centre in Svalbard talks about living on Svalbard and working as a researcher. We talk about the science that takes place in the High Arctic as well as what life is like in Longyearbyen in such a unique part of the world. If you've ever considered studying in Svalbard, this is the show for you. Happy listening! Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/researcher-on-svalbard/

Life in Norway Show Episode 61: Jason Turflinger of the American Chamber of Commerce in Norway joins the show to talk business culture in Norway and the US.

We talk about the purpose and work of the AmCham organisation, and whether the stereotypes are true about the difference in working culture between Norway and the United States.

Jason also offers up some tips for Americans looking to move to Norway and find work. Happy listening!

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/american-chamber-of-commerce/

Life in Norway Show Episode 60: The European Erasmus programme allows millions of students to study abroad. Here's the experience of a Dutch student visiting Trondheim, Norway.

The EU’s Erasmus programme has facilitated more than 6 million students to study abroad since its creation in 1987. Every year, hundreds of students from across Europe come to Norway on an Erasmus placement.

If you’ve ever considered studying in Norway as a way to sample the lifestyle here, this is the show for you.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/erasmus-study-in-norway/

Life in Norway Show Episode 59: In the latest podcast episode, I chat with a Latvian who moved to Norway as a child and then decided to stay as a teenager, without his parents.

Many guests on the Life in Norway Show have a relatively similar story. Someone who chose to move to Norway in their 20s or 30s because of a job or for love.

Ernests Barons moved from Latvia to Norway with his parents at the age of nine. Several years later, his parents decided to return to Latvia. He chose to stay in Norway with his sister.

We chat about his decisions, the differences between Latvia and Norway, life in Oslo, and his work for The Human Aspect.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/moving-to-norway-as-a-child/

Life in Norway Show Episode 58: Agathe from Find Your Norway joins the show to chat about planning a hiking trip in Norway.

The mountains and the fjords of Norway attract hundreds of thousands of tourists every year—at least in normal times. But a hiking trip isn't like a simple city break. It takes careful planning to get the best experience.

On the show, we look at why you should look beyond the popular hiking trails and tips for first-time visitors.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/hiking-trip-planning-podcast/

Agathe's website is at https://www.findyournorway.com

Life in Norway Show Episode 57: Spanish architect Juan Herreros talks about the architectural choices of the controversial new Munch Museum in Oslo.

I recently attended the press preview day of the new Munch museum. The striking building is the latest addition to Oslo’s ambitious Fjord City project, which is slowly transforming the waterfront of Oslo over several decades.

Many people have criticised the architecture of the new museum, so I took the opportunity to speak to the lead architect, Juan Herreros, of the Spanish architecture practice Estudio Herreros.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/munch-museum-architecture/

Life in Norway Show Episode 56: Moving to a new country has many challenges, but one that's not talked about so often is the psychology of adapting to a new way of life.

On the latest episode of the Life in Norway Show, we dive into the psychological side of moving to Norway. I'm joined by Gabriela Sirbu from Migration of Emotion.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/psychology-of-immigration/

Life in Norway Show Episode 55: An introduction to Norway's fjord region with Victoria from the Norwegian Nature Centre Hardanger in Eidfjord.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/life-in-the-norwegian-fjords/

Life in Norway Show Episode #54: Satu from travel agency 50 Degrees North talks about future travel trends in Norway, along with the differences between Finland and Norway.

International travel to Norway has been difficult to impossible for more than a year now. But we are starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. But will tourism trends have changed, and if so, how?

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/travel-trends-in-norway/

Life in Norway Show Episode #53: Lorelou from A Frog in the Fjord returns to talk about her new book looking back at her first year in Norway.

Back in episode one, I introduced Lorelou by saying: "Lorelou is one of my favourite expat bloggers in all of Norway, mainly because of her hilarious and occasionally controversial thoughts of Norwegian society and culture." That still holds true today!

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/one-year-in-norway/

Life in Norway Show Episode #52: We take a look at the exciting plans for a year of cultural events in Bodø in 2024.

Today on the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by Henrik Sand Dagfinrud, the program director for Bodø's year as European Capital of Culture. We talk about the bid process, what the plans are for 2024, and what Henrik hopes the legacy of the year will be for Bodø, Nordland and Northern Norway in general.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/bodo-capital-of-culture/

Life in Norway Show Episode #51: We look back at Norway's Norwegian American reality show with a participant from the seventh season.

Alt for Norge, the show for Norwegian Americans exploring their Norwegian roots put a new spin on reality TV during its ten-season run. Although the show is now over, we take a look back at the show through the lens of former participant Kate Mills.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/alt-for-norge-interview/

Life in Norway Show Episode #50: The editor of Norway's Barents Observer joins us to talk about life in Kirkenes on the border of Norway, Russia and Finland.

High up in the country’s far northeastern corner, Norway shares a border with both Finland and Russia. From political tensions to climate change, the Barents region is full of fascinating stories.

Since 2002, the Barents Observer, now known as the Independent Barents Observer, has been reporting from the region in both English and Russian.

Today I’m joined by its editor, Thomas Nilsen. We talk about some of the big issues in the high north, Norway’s relationship with Russia and what it’s like to live in Kirkenes within a few miles of the borders.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/living-in-kirkenes/

Life in Norway Show Episode 49: Norwegian violinist Eldbjørg Hemsing joins the podcast to discuss folk music in Norway.

Eldbjørg Hemsing is a Norwegian violinist who has lived in Austria and Germany and played all over the world. We talk about the fascinating world of music in Norway, specifically traditional folk music, and the role Norway's nature, mythology and languages play in it.

Eldbjørg also introduces her own podcast, Nordics Unveiled, an English language look at what makes Nordic music, Nordic!

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/norwegian-folk-music-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 48: British football coach Gregg Broughton joins us to talk about life in northern Norway working for the new Norwegian champions.

The small Norwegian club FK Bodø/Glimt have just won their first ever Norwegian title after a sensational season of attacking football and goals galore.

Gregg Broughton moved from the world of English football to take charge of the Academy at Glimt in early 2018. We talk about his decision to move to Norway, his role at the club, the keys to their stunning success this season, and the plans he and his colleagues are putting in place to try and sustain the success.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/bodo-glimt-champions-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 47: Paul Harrison from the Kelkoo Group joins the show to talk about shopping habits in Norway, from price sensitivity to mobile payments and more.

We talk about how shopping habits differ between Norway and other countries, the supermarket experience in Norway, the state of online shopping in Norway, and a look at how our money and payments are rapidly moving online.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/shopping-habits-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 46: An American researcher living in Norway joins the show to talk about carbon capture and storage technologies.

Norway is about to buy into the concept of CO2 capture, transport and storage in a big way. The government has announced plans to plunge $1.8 billion of public money into a full-scale implementation of the technologies, known collectively as CCS.

American research scientist Amy Brunsvold has lived in Norway for more than 10 years, and now works at SINTEF Energy Research in Trondheim. She is on the management team of the Norwegian CCS Research Centre (NCCS) so is well placed to explain it all to us.

We look at what CCS is and why Norway is spending so much money on it. Of course we also chat about what it's like to work as a research scientist in Norway, and what Amy thinks of life in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/ccs-co2-storage/

Life in Norway Show Episode 45: Scotland's Orkney and Shetland have a fascinating Norse history. But it's not just stories in the history books. There remains a strong Norwegian influence on the islanders' everyday life to this day.

Donna Heddle heads up the Institute for Northern Studies at the University of the Highlands and Islands in Scotland. We talk about the fascinating history of Orkney and Shetland, and how that legacy shapes the culture, place names and language of the islands today.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/orkney-shetland-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 44. The interviews with the Canadian and British Ambassadors to Norway have been some of the most popular episodes of the Life in Norway Show so far. So, I'm delighted to welcome another Ambassador onto the podcast today.

Ambassador Jocelyn Batoon-Garcia is the Philippine Ambassador to Norway and Iceland. It's her third ambassadorial role and is the latest step in her globetrotting career representing her country.

We talk about the links between Norway and the Philippines, the importance of the shipping and maritime industries to both countries, and the everyday life of a diplomat in Norway in 2020.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/philippines-ambassador/

Life in Norway Show Episode 43: Tour guide Emma Vestrheim joins the podcast to chat about moving from Australia to Norway, the experience of living in Bergen, and working as a tour guide in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/life-in-bergen-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 42: Co-writing duo the Lost Viking Writers to talk about Norwegian literature and the publishing industry in Norway.

Today I’m joined by Brian Talgo and Brynjulf Haugan, two writers living in Norway. Brian is an expat New Yorker and Brynjulf grew up in Canada, but both have lived in Norway for much of their lives. They are co-writing a trilogy of historical fiction, the first of which is called The Salt of Ancient Tears.

We talk about the publishing industry in Norway, including some of the popular authors and genres. We also look at what inspired them to write a series set in the world of the Vikings. Finally, we look at the challenges faced by budding authors trying to getting published in Norway.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/reading-writing-books/

Life in Norway Show Episode 41: It's time to talk Norwegian TV, including Okkupert (Occupied), Beforeigners and Ragnarok, among other favourites. Today I’m joined by Jack Esposito, co-host of a podcast all about Norwegian TV and film called Pod for Norge.

His show began as an episode-by-episode breakdown of Okkupert (Occupied), a near-future thriller set in Norway, but has since broadened to cover many more shows and the occasional movie.

We talk about several of the most popular TV shows in Norway, many of which are now available to watch all around the world thanks to streaming services like Netflix and HBO. Whether you're a fan of Norwegian TV or not, hopefully you'll end the interview with an expanded "to be watched" list!

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/norwegian-tv-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 40: A look inside a research centre focused on the Viking Age.

Just a few episodes ago I spoke to a Viking ship archaeologist. Today I'm returning to the subject of the Norsemen and talking to researcher Keith Ruiter who focuses his studies on the Viking Age.

We talked about the importance of researching historical time periods, and just how we go about doing that. We also cover why learning languages, including how to read Old Norse, is so important to the work.

Full Show Notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/viking-researcher/

Life in Norway Show Episode 39: One of Norway's most famous immigrants, Maria Amelie, tells us about her life as a teenage asylum seeker, how she got to return to Norway after being deported, and her new business Startup Migrants.

If you were in Norway around ten years ago, chances are you'll know the name Maria Amelie. Around ten years ago, she was a household name.

Her book Illegally Norwegian documented her story of her teenage years and beyond as an illegal resident in Norway. The media storm around the book and her subsequent deportation ended up changing many minds and even the law on immigration. Maria was quickly offered a job and obtained a work permit to return.

Today Maria works on startup migrants, a book that has become a business with the aim of changing many more minds in Norway and all across Europe. Her story is controversial, inspiring and fascinating all at the same time. I'm delighted to say we finally found some time for Maria to come on the show. This one is a must-listen!

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/maria-amelie-interview/

Life in Norway Show Episode 38: An interview with Knut Paasche from the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research, all about finding Viking ships in Norway.

When it comes to the history of Scandinavia, few things are more iconic than Viking ships. They turned the Vikings from farmers into explorers, raiders and traders, cementing their place in history.

In recent years, more Viking ship burial sites are being discovered all over Scandinavia. But why now, more than 1000 years later? To find out, I invited Knut Paasche, an expert on Viking ship archaeology onto the show. He works as the head of Digital Archaeology at the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU).

We talk about what it's like to work as an archaeologist in 2020, and how digital tools are transforming the field and leading to more knowledge about the Vikings. We also hear about some of its favorite Viking ship archaeology projects to date.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/viking-ship-archaeology/

Life in Norway Show Episode 37: What's it like to leave the sunshine of Portugal for the mild summers and chilly winters of Oslo? How can you find work in Norway as an architect? We answer these questions and more in the latest episode of the podcast.

More and more foreigners living in Norway are sharing their experiences on YouTube. I already spoke to one of them, Pame, on episode 22 about her experiences relocating from Mexico. Today, I'm speaking to another.

Mon moved from Portugal to study in Norway in 2014 and hasn't gone back. Today she works as an architect in Oslo. She has also built a substantial following on YouTube by sharing videos about her thoughts on life here in Norway.

We talk about the differences between life in Portugal and life in Norway, and how she found a job as an architect in Oslo. We also dig into the details of some of her most popular videos.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/from-portugal-to-norway/

Life in Norway Show Episode 36: In a break from the usual schedule, we update everyone on the latest situation with the coronavirus in Norway.

Hi everyone. I've shifted the schedule around to bring you this short special update. The original episode will still air so look out for that in a week or so.

The topic today is as I'm sure everyone will expect is the coronavirus in Norway. COVID-19 has disrupted everyday life in Norway like no other time outside of war. Much of the country is shut down with tens of thousands of people including me in home quarantine due to recent travels.

Today, I talk about some of the most frequently asked questions related to the coronavirus outbreak in Norway.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/coronavirus-podcast/

Life in Norway Show Episode 35: The last few years have been uncertain times for Brits living all across Europe, and in Norway. I'm joined today by Richard Wood, the British Ambassador, to talk Brexit, the future of the UK's relationship with Norway, and his life in Oslo.

The podcast is back! Yes, after a few months break, the number of emails I received from people asking for its return have worked their magic. I have a few episodes already recorded and it feels great to be back behind the mic!

To kick-things off, I'm welcoming Richard Wood, the British Ambassador to Norway, to the Life in Norway hotseat. Of course, Brexit is on the agenda, but we also talk about the role of an Ambassador in 2020 and how that's changed over the years, plus Richard's thoughts and impressions on Norway and Norwegian life.

Richard is actually the second Ambassador to come on the show. All the way back in episode 6, I spoke to Artur Wilczynski, who was then the Canadian Ambassador. If you enjoy this show, that one is also well worth a listen.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/british-ambassador-interview/

Life in Norway Show Episode 34: What's it like living on a small island in northern Norway? We find out as the Life in Norway Show chats to some of the people who call Skrova their home.

I'm just back from a working trip to Skrova, a tiny island in the north of Norway. Less than 200 people live here, and it takes a 30-minute ferry ride from Skrova to reach it. I was there to cover a story on a bike sharing scheme, but I quickly discovered an island with outgoing locals and a love for photography.

It's an absolutely beautiful place and the perfect spot to unwind and relax. But what's it like to live there? That's the question I wanted to answer, so I spoke to a few people who call the island their home.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/skrova-island-life/

Life in Norway Show Episode 33: Michelin star chef Heidi Bjerkan from Credo joins the show to chat about their sustainability award and working in the food industry in central Norway.

Back in February, Europe’s foodies had to check a map. The Michelin Nordic guide included not one but two restaurants in Trondheim, giving the city its first ever Michelin stars.

One of those restaurants, Credo, also picked up the new Michelin Nordic Guide Sustainability Award. At the recent NTNU Big Challenge science festival, Credo head chef and owner Heidi Bjerkan was on hand to present not her food, but how they compost and enourage their customers to do the same. It’s a vital part of the sustainability circle of food systems that led to Credo's awards.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode33

Life in Norway Show Episode 32: Wil Lee-Wright of Trondheim's Britannia Hotel welcomes me for lunch as we chat about the hotel's renovation and what luxury experiences are available for visitors to central Norway.

Trondheim recently saw the reopening of the historic Britannia Hotel at the heart of the city. It's one of a number of top-tier hotels to open in the country recently, in what seems to be a trend towards luxury tourism.

When I was invited for lunch and a look around by a former guest of the Life in Norway Show, I got to see it for myself. It's an impressive place, the likes of which we've not had in Trondheim before.

Over lunch, we chat about what the Britannia is trying to be, both for international travellers and for locals here in Trondheim, and about the possibilities for luxury travel here in central Norway.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode32

Life in Norway Show Episode 31: Curtis Rojak from Viking Biking joins us to chat about how much he loves the outdoors lifestyle in Oslo, so much so that he started a tour business to share that love with visitors.

There’s plenty of ways to embrace the Norwegian outdoors lifestyle even if you live in the capital city. One person who knows that better than most is Curtis Rojak, founder of Viking Biking.

He joins the Life in Norway Show to talk about the Norwegian 'friluftsliv', his love for Oslo, and where exactly he takes visitors on his cycling and walking tours.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode31

Life in Norway Show Episode 30: Andrew Sykes is a British author and long-distance cyclist. He chose to take on an almighty challenge, cycling from the south of Spain to the very north of Norway. Here's his story!

A few years ago, British long-distance cyclist and writer Andrew P. Sykes cycled from the south of Europe all the way to Nordkapp at the very northern tip of the Norwegian mainland. Rather him than me! Having said that I am rather envious, as such a trip must take you through places the majority of us won't ever see.

Andrew has chronicled his previous long-distance journeys in the books Crossing Europe on a Bike Called Reggieand Along the Med on a Bike Called Reggie. To complete the trilogy, Spain to Norway on a Bike Called Reggie, is now available.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode30

Life in Norway Show Episode 29: Gunnar Garfors is a Norwegian journalist who has visited every country in the world - twice! He tells us about what he's learned from travelling the world.

Since the Viking Age, Norwegians have been known as travellers, but today's guest takes things a step further. Today I'm joined by Gunnar Garfors, a Norwegian journalist, globetrotter, and author of the book How I Ran Out Of Countries.

We talk about where his ambition came from, what his travels have taught him about Norway's place in the world, and where in the world he thinks are the most interesting and overrated places to travel.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode29

Life in Norway Show Episode 28: Jill Kirchmann from the Norway Times blog tells us all about life in the small Norwegian town Hølen, and why she chose to move away from the capital city.

I've only ever lived in Oslo and Trondheim, and every so often I do wonder what life would be like in a much smaller place. Having grown up in a small village in England, I have fond memories of life in a small community. But what would that be like as an adult, and in Norway?

Jill Kirchmann, a Canadian who writes the Norway Times blog, is just the person to ask! She moved to Hølen, a small town about an hour south of Oslo, and joins the show to talk about the experience.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode28

Life in Norway Show Episode 27: Mike Emery, CEO of Oslo sports broadcasting company Joymo, joins us to talk about Norwegian sports club culture and how he's working to get more kids playing sport not just in Norway, but all around the world.

Mike moved from Wales to Norway via London to start a family with his Norwegian wife. His day-to-day work is with Joymo, a technology startup in Oslo that enables grassroots sports teams to broadcast their games live. But his interest in grassroots sports goes way beyond his day job.

On today's episode of the show we chat about sports club culture in Norway, how Mike is working to get more children into sports wherever in the world they live, and how he's teamed up with one of Norway's leading sportsmen to start and run a charity.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode27

Life in Norway Show Episode 26: Originally from the UK, Paule Miller talks about gardening culture in Norway and shares some tips for getting started year-round.

I live in an apartment so gardening hasn't been on my radar since moving to Norway back in 2011. After my chat with Paule Miller, perhaps that could change!

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode26

Originally from Essex in England, Paule moved to Norway in 1994. Three years ago he set up a gardening business to further pursue his lifelong hobby, and it's gone from strength to strength. We talk about gardening culture in Norway, what grows well here, and how people can get started even if they live in an apartment.

Gardening culture in Norway

Paule believes there is a culture of gardening here but it's more with the older generation. “The younger generation seem to like to build the biggest possible house on the available land, which leaves very modest surroundings that doesn't have the potential for a nice garden.”

“There are some very nice gardens here, and even local growers. It was a very big shock to me when I found out that someone locally had the knowledge and was breeding rhododendrons together.”

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode26

Life in Norway Episode 25: American chef Ben Vidmar is so passionate about food that he's trying to grow his own in the world's northernmost community.

Full show notes including photos:

https://www.lifeinnorway.net/growing-food-on-svalbard/

On my recent trip to Svalbard I met so many fascinating people from all over the world. Everyone has their story to tell, but without doubt one of the most interesting is that of American entrepreneur Ben Vidmar.

He works in Svalbard as a chef and has his own business, Polar Permaculture. He aims to solve one of the biggest headaches of life at 78 degrees north: obtaining fresh food while reducing waste.

Read more: Living on Svalbard

In this week's episode, I sit down in Ben's office to chat about what brought him to such a remote place. We talk about his business, and what he believes is possible when it comes to growing food sustainably on Svalbard.

Full show notes including photos:

https://www.lifeinnorway.net/growing-food-on-svalbard/

Life in Norway Show Episode 24: We go behind the scenes on the MS Vesterålen to meet some of the people who work for Hurtigruten.

Full show notes including photos: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode24/

Norway's Hurtigruten famously offers guests a memorable 12-day cruise up and down the Norwegian coastline, but the company's ships also serve dual purpose as a local passenger and cargo service.

In this week's episode, I go behind the scenes on the MS Vesterålen to meet some of the dedicated people who keep the vessel running.

If you haven't seen it yet, you may want to check out the ship review and video tour first. You'll get a feel for the ship and meet Kathia, another employee from the MS Vesterålen.

We meet the Chief Officer on the bridge, the person in charge of managing the supplies on board, the hotel manager in charge of the guest experience, plus two people who work with Hurtigruten on the cargo management and tour guide side of things.

Full show notes including photos: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode24/

Life in Norway Show Episode 23: Long-term Longyearbyen resident and tour guide Anna Lena Ekeblad talks adventure tourism in Svalbard on a scenic drive around the settlement.

Full show notes including photos: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode23/

After more than seven years in Norway, I finally ticked off a major item on my bucket list this March by visiting Svalbard. The Arctic archipelago is the farthest north you can get on a scheduled flight – anywhere in the world.

Adventure tourism in Svalbard

Although coal mining still takes place on Svalbard, scientific research and adventure tourism are of growing importance. Because you can't leave Longyearbyen, the main settlement, without a gun and without knowing how to use it, the role of tour guides is an important one.

Swedish citizen Anna Lena Ekeblad has lived in Longyearbyen for a remarkable 24 years. She has worked in tourism for all of that time and today runs her own tour company Barents Expeditions. Her company takes interested visitors on a dream tour of the fjords of Svalbard on multi-day expeditions by boat.

When she invited me for a tour of the landscape immediately surrounding Longyearbyen, I didn't hesitate, and took my recording equipment along for the ride! Enjoy the show, and don't forget to refer to the show notes page for the photos.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode23/

Life in Norway Show Episode 22: Meet Mexican YouTuber Pame who has lived in Norway for seven years and runs a popular YouTube channel all about her experiences in the land of the Vikings.

There are quite a lot of people making YouTube videos about Norway these days, but not so many in Spanish. I've been watching Pame's YouTube videos for years as they have helped me get better at Spanish! I'm delighted to welcome her onto the Life in Norway Show.

We chat about her experiences moving to Norway as a student, learning the language, and adapting to Norwegian culture. I also ask her about the most popular videos on her channel, and what exactly goes in to making a video.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode22/

Pame says that a lot of people back home believe most Norwegians are very cold. "It's because we as Latin Americans are very loud and laugh a lot! One thing a lot of people tell me is that they think Norway is cold the whole year."

The Vikings are also a famous icon of the Nordic countries throughout Latin America. "I love the history, and to learn about their beliefs and their mythology. People don't so much that they were merchants and negotiators", says Pame.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode22/

Pame's YouTube channel: 

Life in Norway Show Episode 21: Entrepreneur Torill Wilhelmsen joins us to discuss Norwegian entrepreneurship and the advantages of starting a business in rural Norway.

After many years of lagging behind its Nordic neighbours Sweden and Finland, Norway is finally catching up supporting new business and entrepreneurship. Today’s guest Torill Wilhelmsen talks about the challenges and benefits of working for yourself in rural Norway.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode21/

Making a living outside the cities

One issue is that support programs and startup ecosystems tend to be concentrated in and around the cities. So what does a budding entrepreneur who just happens to live in rural Norway do?

Torill believes ordinary people can achieve remarkable things. She started her business Fjellflyt to make it easier to make a living from your passion no matter where in the country you live.

In addition to her work as a business strategist, she founded the BETA coworking space, pictured above, in the centre of Vågå in the Gudbrandsdal region.

Doing 'slow business' in Norway

Once Torill also began to feel the burnout of juggling her career with travelling, being a new mum and other commitments, the idea for Fjellflyt was born. "The mission I am on now is to create community for both rural and urban entrepreneurs who are like-minded in there way they approach their business", says Torill.

She calls this philosophy where the best of work and best of the outdoors meet, slow business.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode21/

Life in Norway Show Episode 20: Norwegian Social entrepreneur Munib Mushtaq from Gi en hånd

Norwegian social entrepreneur Munib Mushtaq talks about working with immigrants and the unwritten social rules of Norwegian society.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode20/

New to Norway

There are many organisations that help people moving to Norway, but few courses look beyond the practicalities of setting someone up in the system, learning the language and finding employment.

While all those things are important, becoming truly settled in Norway with Norwegian friends and a full active social life is perhaps the biggest challenge of all. Institutions don’t teach the Norwegian social code and new refugees and immigrants often have to learn the hard way.

Today we meet Munib Mushtaq, a Norwegian social entrepreneur and founder of Gi en Hånd, who is on a mission to change that! He was born in Norway to immigrant parents, so has personal experience in adapting to different cultures.

A helping hand for new arrivals

Gi en Hånd is a voluntary organisation with the main goal of building bridges and integrating minority groups to create a stronger generation to strengthen Norway as a nation.

Their specialisation is providing intensive Norwegian courses that take just one month per level, which is much faster than standard courses.

Life in Norway Show Episode 19: What's Coming in 2019

Happy New Year everyone! For episode 19, I've decided to record a solo show to let you all know about the exciting plans I have for Life in Norway over the coming year. If you prefer to read, there's a transcript in the show notes.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode19/

A new year is a time for reflection, and whichever way I look at it, 2018 was an outstanding year for Life in Norway. I managed to get the podcast going again after a much longer break than I’d intended, and published more articles than ever before.

So much so, that almost 1.5 million different people from all around the world read at least one article on Life in Norway during the year, and tens of thousands of people downloaded a podcast episode.

With such a successful year behind us, I'm pushing the boat out in 2019 to deliver more, better content to you than ever before. Listen in to find out what's in store!

Life in Norway Show Episode 18: Referee Bobby Madley from Premier League to Norway

A look at the first few weeks in Oslo for Bobby Madley, who has hung up his referee's whistle in England's Premier League to give life in the Norwegian capital a go.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode18/

He moved to join his Norwegian girlfriend in Oslo and has already met with the Norwegian Football Federation to discuss his hopes for officiating in the Norwegian football system.

Brand New in Oslo

While we do talk about football on the show, we also talk about his first impressions of life in Oslo.

As I first moved to Oslo back in 2011 it's really difficult for me to advise newcomers because things have changed so much, so I was really keen to hear of Bobby's own experiences in 2018.

Some of the topics we cover on the show include:

Life in Norway Show Episode 17: Hallo Norge! From Cairo to Oslo

A look at the challenges in adjusting to life in Norway with the Egyptian host of the Hallo Norge podcast.

Full show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode17/

For episode 17 of the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by Mariam Kirollos, host of the Norwegian language Hallo Norge podcast that introduces Norway to new arrivals.

Mariam moved to Norway with her Norwegian husband and works for Save the Children Norway in addition to her work on the podcast.

Some of the topics we cover on the show include:

Life in Norway Show Episode 16: Art, Design & Creativity in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode16

For episode 16 of the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by American artist Elizabeth Ramsey, director of Blank Space Oslo, an ambitious art collective and creative space in the Norwegian capital.

We talk about the differences between creativity in Scandinavia and elsewhere, how Norwegians view art and creativity, the thought behind Blank Space Oslo and how the 'average person' can get involved. We also discuss top art and design experiences for those visiting Oslo and the challenge of being a foreigner in Norway.

Liz says: "We do events all the way from going to bars allowing people to paint on large wall posters, through to classes about skillscreen printing and so on. Most of our classes are for beginners, you just sign up and come."

Liz is also a fellow podcaster. She hosts the monthly Blank Space podcast ‘Blah Blah’, which discusses topics as diverse as illustration, silkscreen printing, augmented reality, and video game development.

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode16

Life in Norway Show Episode 15: Student Life in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode15

For episode 15 of the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by Kelsey Barnhill, an American student attending the Norwegian University of Life Sciences.

Almost every day I receive emails from people from all over the world who are considering applying for university in Norway. Because I've never studied here, I can only offer general advice. But Kelsey can speak from true experience!

We talk about why she chose Norway, how college life is different here, and some of the things you bear in mind if you're considering applying for a university place.

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode15

Life in Norway Show Episode 14: True Crime - Death in Ice Valley

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode14

For episode 14 of the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by NRK journalist Marit Higraff, co-presenter of the hit true crime podcast Death in Ice Valley.

The hit show from NRK and the BBC has been picking up celebrity fans and awards all around the world. It looks in detail at the case of the Isdal woman, one of Norway's most infamous unsolved mysteries.

A woman's body was found badly burned in a remote valley in Norway in November 1970. Objects were found laid out around her body and labels had been removed from her clothes and personal items. The police never found her identify and still, no-one knows who she was or what happened to her.

We talk a little about the case, how the podcast came to be, the international success of Scandinavian crime stories, and what it's like to work as a journalist in Norway.

Life in Norway Show Episode 13: Travel Hacking in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode13

For lucky episode 13 of the Life in Norway Show I'm joined by Scandinavian travel hacking expert Martin Damm Laupstad, editor of the Norwegian travel news website InsideFlyer.no.

First things first, what is travel hacking? The term means different things to different people, but what we talk about is how you can use frequent flyer points to earn free or discounted flights, and many other perks such as fast-track security, priority boarding, access to airport lounges and upgrades.

Travel hacking also encompasses all the different ways you can boost your points balance from shopping in the right stores to using certain travel-friendly credit cards.

This episode of the podcast is most relevant for anyone living in Norway, but we talk about travel in more general terms too, so hopefully you'll find it interesting regardless.

Life in Norway Show Episode 12: Job-Hunting in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode12

The co-authors of How to Find a Job in Norway discuss their top job-hunting tips for foreigners in Norway.

Welcome back to the Life in Norway Show! Yes, it's finally time for season two. I had only intended to take a few weeks break following season one, but it's amazing how quickly a few weeks can turn into almost a year.

Regular readers will know that over the summer we published How to Find a Job in Norway, a book designed to help foreigners put together a job-hunting strategy.

I co-authored the book with recruitment expert Ingrid Romundset Fabrello, who has years of experience leading workshops and one-on-one consulting to help English-speaking foreigners land a job in Norway.

On the show we talk about a couple of the top tips from the book, including:

To put these tips in context and get a whole heap more advice on seeking employment, check out the book How to Find a Job in Norway. It's available now in both paperback and digital formats.

Life in Norway Show Episode 11: The Norwegian Americans

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode11

The history of Norwegian emigration to America is a fascinating one. Newspaper editor Emily Skaftun tells us all about the modern Norwegian American community.

It’s time to wrap up season one of the Life in Norway Show, and for the first time, I’m speaking to someone who doesn’t actually live in Norway. The reason? More than a hundred years ago, Norwegians moved to the USA en masse in search of a better life. Because of that, today there are huge numbers of Americans with Norwegian heritage, and there is quite the community built around them.

Emily Skaftun is the editor of the Norwegian American newspaper, and I speak to her about the Norwegian American community in the USA, the history of the newspaper, and her thoughts on Norway from her recent visits.

During the episode, we talk about:

PS: Don’t forget you can support the show for just a handful of change per month over on Patreon. I’ll be asking my supporters on Patreon who we should be interviewing for season two, so if you want to have your say, you know what to do! 

Life in Norway Show Episode 10: Inside Work-Work

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode10

Come take a stroll around Work-Work, Trondheim's gaming bar and coworking space for creative entrepreneurs in the latest episode of the Life in Norway Show.

As we race towards the end of season one of the Life in Norway Show, it's time to mix things up a little. Rather than the usual one-on-one interview, this episode sees yours truly take a walk around Work-Work, Trondheim's creative coworking space and gaming bar.

Amongst many other creative companies, Work-Work is the home of my company Words of Norway, which publishes this website and podcast among many other things. As we meet some of the other members, you'll hear the reasons why this fascinating place was set up, who exactly works here, and what life is like as a Norwegian entrepreneur.

During the episode, we meet:

Life in Norway Show Episode 9: Living in Lofoten

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode9

American photographer Cody Duncan gives us the lowdown on what life is really like in Lofoten, northern Norway.

Lofoten is one of the most popular bucket list destinations for travellers, but very few people actually live there. One of those lucky few is American photographer Cody Duncan, who makes a living leading photo tours, selling ebooks, and taking photos.

He joins the latest episode of the Life in Norway Show to talk all about life in Lofoten, the good and the bad. If you've ever dreamed of living in a remote yet beautiful part of Norway, this is a must-listen episode. For more on Lofoten, check out our Lofoten travel guide.

We talk about:

Links from the show:

And to find out more about Whitney:

Life in Norway Show Episode 8: Norwegian Food

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode8

Whitney Bredland Love from the Thanks for the Food blog is the latest guest on the Life in Norway Show.

Whitney talks to us about the interesting world of Norwegian food. We look at Norwegian cuisine from the perspective of living here, and some tips for visitors too. We also take a trip around Norway and hear about some of the regional specialities.

We talk about:

Links from the show:

And to find out more about Whitney:

Enjoying the Life in Norway Show?

Please consider supporting us from just $2 per month - that's less than the price of a simple black coffee here in Norway! Not only will your support guarantee the future of the show, supporters get access to exclusive Q&A podcasts where you can ask any question about Norway. You’ll also get massive discounts on all eBooks we produce. Support the show here.

Life in Norway Show Episode 7: Living in Oslo

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode7

Jason Moore from the Zero to Travel podcast is the latest guest on the Life in Norway Show. Jason talks to us about living in Norway's capital city, the differences from life in the United States, and his list of must-see places for travellers planning a trip to Oslo.

We talk about:

Links from the show:

And to find out more about Jason:

Enjoying the Life in Norway Show?

Please consider supporting us from just $2 per month - that's less than the price of a simple black coffee here in Norway! Not only will your support guarantee the future of the show, supporters get access to exclusive Q&A podcasts where you can ask any question about Norway. You’ll also get massive discounts on all eBooks we produce. Support the show here.

Life in Norway Show Episode 6: The Canadian Ambassador to Norway

Learn about the life of a modern diplomat as Artur Wilczynski joins the latest episode of the Life in Norway Show.

I'm pleased to welcome my first Canadian guest to the Life in Norway Show, but not just any Canadian. Artur Wilczynski moved to Norway in 2014 to take up the role of Canadian Ambassador to Norway. Since taking up the post, the Ambassador has travelled Norway extensively meeting Canadians living in Norway and talking to Norwegians about the country's relationship with Canada.

Get full show notes and links to everything we talk about at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode6

Life in Norway Show Episode 5: Living in Trondheim

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode5

Five episodes into the podcast and I'm finally joined by a fellow Brit! I promise we don't talk about football and tea too much. Wil Lee-Wright moved to Norway eight years ago with his Norwegian wife.

He works as a freelance photographer and was instrumental in the creation of The List, Trondheim's English language print magazine.

We talk about:

Links from the show:

Enjoying the Life in Norway Show?

Please consider supporting us from just $2 per month - that's less than the price of a simple black coffee here in Norway! Not only will your support guarantee the future of the show, supporters get access to exclusive Q&A podcasts where you can ask any question about Norway. You’ll also get massive discounts on all eBooks we produce. Support the show here.

Life in Norway Show Episode 4: Working Culture in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode4

Former US Marine Dave Smith joins the Life in Norway Show to talk about the differences between office life in the USA and Norway.

Back in 2014, Dave travelled to Trondheim with his Norwegian girlfriend in an attempt to find work and make a home for himself. Three years later, he's happily married, working as Head of Marketing for a rapidly growing startup, and has fully embraced the Norwegian lifestyle.

Although this is episode four, our conversation was actually the first one I recorded for the Life in Norway Show, so my thanks for Dave agreeing to the interview before the podcast even existed! I'm sure you'll agree he gives some great insights and advice for newcomers to the country.

We talk about:

Links from the show:

Enjoying the Life in Norway Show?

Please consider supporting us from just $2 per month - that's less than the price of a simple black coffee here in Norway! Not only will your support guarantee the future of the show, supporters get access to exclusive Q&A podcasts where you can ask any question about Norway. You’ll also get massive discounts on all eBooks we produce. Support the show here.

Life in Norway Show Episode 3: Raising a Child in Norway

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode3

American expat Audrey Camp talks about the differences in childcare between the USA and Norway, and the challenges of having a baby in a foreign country.

Audrey Camp is a freelance writer and American expat living in Oslo, Norway with her husband and daughter. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University and her MA in British and American Literature from the University of Oslo. Her work has appeared in a variety of magazines, literary journals, and anthologies, and she is the co-author of Startup Guide Oslo and Startup Guide Vienna.

In March 2017, she was elected Chair of Democrats Abroad Norway, giving her a chance to stretch her progressive political muscles. Today, she teaches seminars in American Literature at the University of Oslo.

As I've never had a child in either the UK or Norway, I invited Audrey on the show to talk about the process of pregnancy, childcare, and raising a child in Norway. I learned so much from this episode, and I just know you're going to do the same!

In this episode you'll learn:

Moon Norway: This episode of the Life in Norway Show is proudly sponsored by the Moon Norway travel guidebook. Grab your copy now to help plan your ideal trip to Norway.

Useful links from the show:

Full show notes from the episode can be found at https://www.lifeinnorway.net/episode3

Life in Norway Show Episode 2: Life in Arctic Norway

German blogger Vanessa Brune talks about life in Tromsø, what she loved about the Norwegian Arctic, but why she chose to move on.

Vanessa moved to Norway for a Master's degree course in Indigenous studies, and soon fell in love with the place. She started her blog, Snow in Tromsø, to chronicle her adventures and share her travel tips with a wider audience.

But after several years in the Arctic, Vanessa has chosen to move with her boyfriend to a different part of Norway.

On this episode you'll learn:

This episode of the Life in Norway Show is proudly sponsored by the Moon Norway travel guidebook. Grab your copy now to help plan your ideal travel experience in Norway: http://norwaytraveller.com/moon

Useful links:

To get more information on the Life in Norway Show or to sign up to the Norway Weekly newsletter to make sure you don't miss out on any future episodes, simply head on over to https://www.lifeinnorway.net

On the first episode of the Life in Norway Show, French blogger Lorelou Desjardins joins David to talk about becoming an untintentional star in the Norwegian media, as well as publishing a book in her fourth language.

Show notes: https://www.lifeinnorway.net/podcast1

The Life in Norway Show provides an insider's view on Norway, in English. Join our host David Nikel, a British expat who has lived in Norway since 2011, as he interviews fellow foreigners about what life is really like in this part of Scandinavia.

Is Norway really the happiest country on earth? Let's find out!

Podcast Info: https://www.lifeinnorway.net