In the fourth episode of Denmark Calling, we meet John Patrick from San Luis Obispo, California - a city ranked by some as the happiest in America. John is not particularly impressed. "To be the happiest city in America," he says, "is a pretty low bar at this stage."

John works as a debate coach at California Polytechnic State University. It's a profession that barely exists outside the United States, but one with deep roots in the American university system - and one that John believes is essential to a functioning democracy.

The episode explores California's contradictions: Silicon Valley and homeless encampments, progressive legislation and growing inequality. And free speech - which John considers the best thing about America, but which he argues most Americans are remarkably bad at using.

We hear about the Scandinavian relatives John discovered through an email he assumed was a scam. About comedian George Carlin, swearing, and the four historic categories of profanity in the English language. And about what happens to a country when its leaders stop bothering to argue properly.

One state. One voice. One honest conversation.

If you'd like to be part of the podcast, visit denmarkcalling.com and click Join - I'm looking for Americans of all ages, backgrounds, and political views from all 50 states.

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In the second episode of Denmark Calling, Catherine Anderson from Philadelphia reflects on life in the United States - and on her work as a lawyer representing tenants facing eviction.

The conversation is rooted in a city of contrasts: historic landmarks and universities on one side - and poverty, homelessness, and rising housing costs on the other. Catherine offers insight into how everyday life events such as illness, accidents, or pregnancy can have serious consequences when the financial safety net is limited.

The episode also explores American friendliness and everyday culture - and why a simple “How are you?” is not necessarily superficial, but often a genuine, if brief, expression of interest in others.

At the same time, Catherine points to a deeper tension in American society: a country shaped by abundance and generosity, but also by inequality and a tendency to hold on to resources rather than share them.

One state. One voice. One honest conversation.

More information about the podcast is available at denmarkcalling.com.

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

In the first episode of Denmark Calling, Ian Kelly from Lewis Center, Ohio reflects on life in today’s United States - from growing up near the Rust Belt to raising a blended family in a rapidly growing Midwestern city.

The conversation touches on work, patriotism, national identity, political polarization, and what it means to feel proud of a country while being deeply critical of its direction. Ian shares personal stories about college football at Ohio State, a chaotic night that changed his path, an unexpected military experience, and the economic decline that still shapes parts of the Midwest.

The episode also explores how misinformation, media narratives, and social division influence everyday life - and why most Americans may have far more in common than the headlines suggest.

One state. One voice. One honest conversation.

More information about the project - and how to take part - is available at denmarkcalling.com.

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

America dominates the news - but the country is more than presidents and headlines.

Denmark Calling gives the microphone to ordinary Americans - one from each of the 50 U.S. states. Conversations about climate, guns, immigration, the economy, race, and everyday life in the United States today.

No politicians. No pundits. Just real people.

Launching in late February.

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