
Stockholm is a State of Minds
Stockholm is a State of Minds - The only podcast you need to become Swed... ishEach year brilliant minds from all over the world move to Stockholm – for work at universities, companies, and other organisations, for university studies, as accompanying partner, for love, or for refuge. Brilliant minds, who want to settle down, find a job, get to know the culture and understand society. This podcast is for you.Join hosts Maria and Philip for casual conversations exploring key topics commonly discussed over coffee breaks and meals as well as pivotal events that have shaped Swedish society for generations – helping peel back cultural layers and fast track the transition to your new home. And they will bring along guests – interesting people offering their own insights from deep knowledge in different fields.Behind the podcast is Stockholm Dual Career Network (SDCN), a non-profit network for partners and spouses of international talent in Stockholm. SDCN supports expat partners with professional events, career-related advice and by building a social network in their new hometown. Stockholm Dual Career Network is founded and run by Stockholms Akademiska Forum, a collaboration between all 18 higher education institutions in Stockholm along with the City of Stockholm.Reach out on Instagram @stockholmdualcareernetwork or LinkedIn @Stockholm Dual Career Network (SDCN) and ask your own questions. In a following episode we might even bring an expert who can tell us all about it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Nov 5, 2024 • 42min
Buying a Home in Stockholm
Are you dreaming of owning a home in Stockholm but feeling overwhelmed by the process? In this episode, we dive into the ins and outs of buying a property in one of Europe’s most competitive real estate markets. With our guest David Garrett, a real estate agent at Bjurfors, we cover everything from ‘bostadsrättsförening’ to ‘lånelöfte’ and what the home means to a Swede. You will also get the answer to the question: What makes a good neighbor? Tune in to learn how you can turn the dream of owning a piece of Stockholm into a reality! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 22, 2024 • 43min
Crack the Swedish Job Market
Lee Wermelin, former chairman of a major Swedish labor union, shares her expertise on navigating Sweden's job market. She discusses the critical role of unions in balancing employee and employer interests and the benefits they provide. Networking emerges as a vital strategy for job seekers, with Wermelin offering invaluable tips for making connections. The conversation also touches on initiatives to help foreign-born academics integrate into the workforce, the importance of learning Swedish, and adapting to local customs for a successful job search.

Oct 8, 2024 • 50min
International Talent Hunt for Swedish Growth
Sven-Olof Daunfeldt, Chief Economist at the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, shares his insights on Sweden's job market and the critical need for international talent. He discusses how attracting global experts can boost productivity by 6-9%. Daunfeldt emphasizes the alignment of workforce skills with market needs and the importance of skilled labor for economic growth. The conversation also touches on housing challenges, labor market disparities, and how international workers drive innovation, making Sweden an appealing destination for careers and living.

Sep 24, 2024 • 43min
Love in the North: Dating in Sweden
In this episode we dive into the unique and fascinating world of dating in Sweden. Join us as we explore the cultural norms, dating practices, and relationship attitudes that define the Swedish dating scene. From the importance of equality and independence in relationships to the role of dating apps, we'll cover everything you need to know about finding love in Sweden.Our guest Elin Ribjer shares her expert insights and practical tips on navigating the Swedish dating landscape. Elin is matchmaking director at Lemarc Thomas matchmaking agency in Stockholm. If you're new to dating in Sweden this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips. The episode is also for you who already have met your person, and are curious about how love works in this Nordic country. And to be honest the same rules can be used in other relationships like friendship too.Tune in for an engaging conversation about love, relationships, and the subtle art of dating in Sweden. Don't miss this chance to learn about the dos and don'ts of Swedish dating etiquette.https://lemarcthomas.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 10, 2024 • 42min
Embracing Swedish Traditions
In this episode we embark on a cultural journey to explore the rich and enchanting traditions of Sweden. We'll delve into the customs that shape Swedish life and bring communities together.Our special guest, Jonas Engman, an ethnologist from the cultural-historical museum Nordiska Museet, shares his deep knowledge of Swedish traditions, offering insights into their historical roots and contemporary significance. We'll uncover the stories behind iconic Swedish festivities like Lucia Day, Walpurgis Night, and the way Swedes celebrate Christmas and New Year.Join us as we discuss the importance of these traditions in Swedish society. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about Swedish traditions and discover how these time-honored practices continue to thrive in modern Sweden.https://www.nordiskamuseet.se/en/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 4, 2024 • 40min
Stockholm in Rainbow Colors
In this episode, we explore the LGBTQI community in Sweden, looking into the history, challenges, and progress of the LGBTQI rights movement in the country. We take a closer look at how Sweden has embraced diversity, inclusion and the ongoing journey toward equality for all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.Whether you are a member of the LGBTQI community, an ally, or simply interested in learning more about LGBTQI issues in Sweden, this episode offers some great insights that are both valuable and engaging.Our guest is Tawar Dabaghi, Secretary General of RFSL - The Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Rights. RFSL strives to create an equal world where all LGBTQI people’s human rights are respected and no one is left behind.https://www.rfsl.se/en/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 21, 2024 • 34min
Tourist Destination Sweden
How many different parts of Sweden have you visited? In this episode you will learn more about Sweden as a tourist destination - how to get around and where to go. With four different seasons, there are plenty of things to do all year round. City life, outdoor activities, cultural heritage and gastronomy.In this episode, Maria and Philip have invited Susanne Andersson, CEO of the official national marketing company Visit Sweden. On their website VisitSweden.com you can learn more about Sweden as a top destination for "coolcation", get all the tips you need for family fun and how to find all the hidden gems all over Sweden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 30, 2024 • 41min
Successful Relocation to Sweden
This week, we're diving into all things related to a move to Sweden. By listening to this episode, you'll get amazing tips on how to tackle both practical challenges and find the right mindset for a smooth and successful settling-in process in Sweden. Moving TO, instead of moving FROM, is one key to success. Another key is to have a long-term perspective from the beginning, even if your plan is to stay for a shorter period of time.We're thrilled to have Lena Rekdal, the founder of Nimmersion, a relocation company, as our guest on the podcast. With almost 30 years of experience, Lena is a true expert in relocation issues, immigration regulations, finding a home and a school, and landing successfully in Sweden. Learn more about https://www.nimmersion.com/By following Nimmersion on LinkedIn you will get a lot of practical information, updates and tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nimmersion/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 16, 2024 • 40min
From Fika to Fitness: Sweden's Sporty Spirit
Stockholm is a city with active people with a lot of running, cycling and going to the gym. In this episode, Maria and Philip invite the Professor of Sports Science, Elin Ekblom Bak, to talk about different aspects of physical activity, public health and the importance of exercise. They also talk about how the sports movement plays an important role in Swedish society and affects public health not only physically, but also how it has an important social function in keeping society together.Elin Ekblom Bak is a professor at the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences. In fact, she was appointed professor on the same day as the recording! Besides being a professor she is very active herself, she has been a professional football player and is now a football coach in the local club on a voluntary basis. She has also been a football commentator in TV. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 2, 2024 • 43min
A Crash Course in Swedish Economy
Money, debt, household finances, pensions, public finances - this episode explores a wide range of economic topics. What characterizes the Swedish economy? Join us as we learn about how Swedish public finances have evolved over time, "from top notch to the middle of the pack". And how do Swedes relate to money?Our guest and our guide is Klas Eklund, a well-known Swedish economist who has worked in both the public and private sectors. He has an impressive background, having served as chief economist at one of Sweden's largest banks and as an expert for the Swedish government, among other roles. Klas Eklund, Vår ekonomi: En introduktion till världsekonomin, (15th edition, 2020). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.