Nordic on Tap - the podcast

Eric Stavney
  • 4.9 (7)
  • Society & Culture

Join us on an engaging and delightful tour of Nordic culture, through folktales, history, music, and art.

  1. Jul 26

    Nordic Folktales that are Funny: Is that Even Possible?

    Think Scandinavians don't have a sense of humor? Think again. In this episode of Nordic on Tap, Eric Stavney uncovers the hilarious side of Nordic folklore through stories packed with lovable fools, clever tricksters, boastful husbands, and animals that outsmart everyone around them. Journey from Denmark's famous Molbo tales to Norway, Finland, and Sápmi, where centuries-old stories reveal that people have always made the same wonderfully ridiculous mistakes. Along the way you'll discover why these tales have endured for generations—and why you may recognize a little of yourself in every character. If you enjoy folklore, history, and a good laugh, this episode is for you. Transcript on our Extras page: https://nordicontap.com/p/extras-for-humorous-folktales/ Show Notes Exploring Nordic Humor: Folktales, Silliness, and Human NatureDiscover how Nordic folktales and humor reflect deep cultural values and human nature. Join Eric Stavney as he shares amusing stories and insights into Scandinavian humor, revealing that silliness and logic coexist in timeless tales that mirror our own behaviors. Key Topics: The cultural taboo of making fun of neighbors in Nordic societies Types of humor found in Scandinavian folktales, including anecdotes, jokes, and stories about towns of fools Examples of humorous folktales from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Sami traditions How folktales about fools, tricksters, and exaggerated characters serve as mirrors to human behavior The role of storytelling in preserving culture and teaching humility through laughter Notable stories: Molfs’ town tales, the husband who thinks keeping house is easy, the clever fox and tricky animals, and the silliness that unites us How humor helps us recognize our own foolishness and keep life interesting Resources for further learning: collections of Scandinavian folktales, books, and podcasts The significance of humor in maintaining cultural identity among indigenous Sami people Timepoints 00:00 - Introduction to Nordic humor and folktales 00:50 - Cultural beliefs in Scandinavia about making fun of others 01:19 - Categories of humorous folk tales and common themes across countries 02:16 - Tales of towns of fools from Scandinavia, England, Germany, and Jewish traditions 02:46 - Stories from Denmark's Moles and other towns of fools, featuring absurd but relatable characters 03:42 - The story of shaking hands with Norwegian sailors and European humor traditions 04:40 - Danish tales of Moles: absurd situations involving lobsters and mistaken identities 05:34 - Personal anecdote: greeting Norwegian royalty and cultural insights into handshaking 06:34 - The town of Mulse and matches: a humorous take on logical reasoning in absurd situations 07:59 - The story of "Leg Sorting" and how silly solutions reflect human ingenuity 10:00 - A Norwegian folktale about a husband who underestimates household work 10:56 - The tale of the overconfident husband, humorous yet reflective of human pride 11:53 - Finnish trickster Miko and the clever fox stories 16:18 - The story of Miko and the bear: wins through wit, not strength 20:09 - Sami stories and their importance in preserving indigenous culture 21:38 - Folktale about animals working together for safety and cleverness 22:38 - The story of the fox and the lion: clever deception and recognizing true strength 26:35 - Reflections on stories of fools and the universal nature of silliness 27:08 - American Norwegian humor: Red Stangland’s jokes about silliness in Uff da, Ole, and Lena jokes 28:19 - The enduring appeal of folktales and their role as mirrors of human nature 29:00 - The “Five Sillies” story: foolishness as a journey of discovery 33:06 - The story of the mallet and the fears about misfortune in Scandinavian folktales 36:50 - A humorous tale of wardrobe mishaps and human awkwardness 38:49 - The universality of silliness in folktales, regardless of culture or country 39:17 - Final reflections: humor as a way to remember our imperfections and remain humble Resources & Links: Old Stories from Denmark by Kaya Ella Molbo Stories online By the Fire: Sami Folk Tales and Legends Sami Folktales of Near and Far Worlds The Five Sillies story Mighty Mikko ebook Red Stangland jokes Scandinavian Folktale Collections Enjoy the humor and wisdom of Nordic folktales and remember that sometimes life’s silliness offers the best lessons. Until next time, embrace your own silliness — it's part of what makes us human.   Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe to Nordic on Tap on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Connect with Eric Stavney: Email Website

    Nordic Folktales that are Funny: Is that Even Possible?

  2. Jun 12

    John Ericsson, the USS Monitor, and Me

    What does it take for an immigrant inventor to change the course of history? In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of John Ericsson, the Swedish engineer who arrived in America virtually unknown and became one of the nation's most celebrated innovators. Best remembered as the designer of the revolutionary ironclad USS Monitor, Ericsson helped transform naval warfare during the American Civil War and played a pivotal role in one of history's most famous naval battles. But Ericsson's story extends far beyond the Monitor. From surveying Sweden's Göta Canal as a teenager to building locomotives in England, pioneering the screw propeller, surviving professional setbacks, and battling skeptics throughout his career, Ericsson was a brilliant, stubborn, and relentless inventor whose ideas were often years ahead of their time. Combining personal travel experiences, historical research, and interviews with experts at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and walking the deck of a full-scale replica of the USS Monitor, this episode uncovers the fascinating life, achievements, and enduring legacy of the man whose inventions changed the world. See also Extras for John Ericsson, the USS Monitor and Me episode. The episode transcript is Transcript for John Ericsson, The Monitor, and Me.

    John Ericsson, the USS Monitor, and Me

  3. Apr 11

    Saving Snorkel the Tortoise: Compassion, Science, and Community

    Saving Snorkel the Tortoise: Compassion, Science, Community, and the Exotic Pet Trade In this episode, we explore the fascinating life of Snorkel, a sulcata tortoise living in Washington State, and discuss the importance of responsible exotic pet ownership, conservation, and ethics. Linnea Stavney shares her insights on teaching students about sulcata tortoises, caring for these long-lived creatures, and the challenges and opportunities of keeping exotic animals as pets or ambassadors for conservation. This episode is available as an audio podcast, as usual. Main Topics: The story of Snorkel, the university tortoise, and what it reveals about exotic pet care Challenges of caring for long-lived, exotic reptiles in captivity Ethical considerations and conservation efforts surrounding the exotic pet trade Responsible ownership: adoption, breeding, and supporting sanctuaries The role of education and community in promoting animal welfare Full transcipt at https://nordicontap.com/p/transcript-for-saving-snorkel-the-tortoise/   Timestamps: (00:43) - Introduction to the podcast format and focus on global exotic pet issues (01:12) - The significance of video versus audio formats for content delivery (01:29) - The global challenge of exotic pet trade and its consequences (02:28) - Personal story: taking children to the Reptile Zoo and early exposure to reptiles (03:09) - The background of Snorkel, the Sulcata tortoise at Central Washington University (04:04) - Snorkel’s journey from Africa to Washington State and his campus celebrity status (05:01) - Caring for Snorkel: blending science, compassion, and creativity (05:30) - Introducing Linnea Stavny, expert in exotic animal care and guardian of Snorkel (06:08) - Linnea’s role in supporting animal habitats and education at CWU (07:23) - The emotional and educational value of working with animals (09:00) - Overview of the diverse reptiles and amphibians cared for at CWU (10:05) - Snorkel’s history: from small egg to campus icon and educational ambassador (11:06) - The challenges of caring for large, exotic pets like Snorkel (12:13) - Relationship to other tortoise species and evolutionary adaptations (13:33) - Tortoise ecology: burrowing, ecosystem engineering, and environmental importance (14:08) - Lifespan and reproductive capacity of sulcata tortoises (15:06) - Health issues faced by Snorkel: deformities, nutritional deficiencies, and immune suppression (17:02) - The crucial role of UVB and proper diet in reptile health (18:18) - Medical interventions: CT scans, treatments, and support attempts (20:52) - Impact of social media and public perception on the exotic pet trade (21:48) - The ethics of keeping reptiles and other wild animals as pets (22:25) - The importance of sanctuaries versus roadside zoos (23:42) - How sanctuaries like Phoenix Herpetological Society support animal welfare (26:28) - The educational mission of sanctuaries and the importance of ethical stewardship (27:26) - Community support and the emotional impact of Snorkel’s journey (28:28) - Lessons of patience, respect, and empathy from caring for Snorkel (30:02) - The value of outdoor time and sunlight for reptiles’ mental health (32:04) - Snorkel’s current well-being and future at the sanctuary (33:08) - Reflecting on Snorkel’s personality and unique behaviors (34:26) - Responsible practices for prospective exotic pet owners (35:00) - The importance of ethical breeding, rescue, and legislation (36:02) - The dangers of releasing exotic pets into non-native environments (37:05) - Final thoughts on community involvement, education, and conservation Resources & Links: Phoenix Herpetological Society Sanctuary Adopt Don’t Shop - Exotic Animal Rescue Legislation and Conservation Organizations Darryl Jackson Music Morten Alfred Høirup Connect with Linnea Stavney: LinkedIn This episode underscores the importance of ethical, informed, and compassionate care for exotic animals and emphasizes the role of community and education in conservation efforts. Link to photos and links about Snorkel the Tortoise and CWU https://nordicontap.com/p/picture-and-links-for-snorkel/

  4. Jan 30

    Making Joyful Music - The Handbell Choir

    I remember when I first saw 7 people line up at a table, pick up two bells with each hand, and proceed to make music unlike anything I've heard before or since.  Not a single one of them played the melody. They created the melody and chords by coordinated movements and exquisite timing.  They played hymns, popular songs, you name it. And the sound of bells was magical and enchanting. Imagine being in a choir without having to sing a single note. But you sure have to be able to concentrate, and read music. Join me as we dive into the world of a handbell choir, how the bells work (more complicated than you'd think), and how with lots of practice they learn to play together.  You'll get to meet Matt Weed, a long-time handbell player who really knows his way around the bells. Like Matt, many of those in the Faith Lutheran Church Handbell Choir of Redmond, Washington, have been playing in the choir for 40-50 years. What is it that motivates these people to take time out at the end of their workdays to play bells?  They say it's a lot of fun. And they invite anyone to experience handbell playing, including with digital bells online or on your phone. But it's more fun with a group of people! Links and pictures for this Handbell podcast (https://nordicontap.podbean.com/p/links-and-pictures-for-making-joyful-music-the-handbell-choir/)

    Making Joyful Music - The Handbell Choir

  5. 12/31/2025

    Morten Alfred Høirup on Tap: Our Interview

    Join us for an interview of Danish composer, musician, and journalist, Morten Alfred Høirup. We find out what the folk music scene is like in Denmark and how state-sponsored radio funding is somewhat dependent on the political views of the current government. Morten also describes his work as a composer for film, especially on esoteric topics like animals (he's composed for Animal Planet, for example). What kind of music does he write to accompany a squirming snake or a jumping frog? Listen and find out! We finish with a live recording of the guitar-duo, Høirup and Dornfeld, playing a delightful medley of Ingela's Vals (by Morten Alfred) and Meget Gammel Vals fra Vendsyssel (traditional). See links and pictures for this episode at: Links and Pictures: Høirup

  6. 12/28/2025

    National Treasures: The Primstav and the Horns of Gallehus

    A "national treasure" is an artifact with significant cultural history associated with a particular country. The Norwegian primstav certainly qualifies. It's a kind of perpetual calendar or almanac stick originating around 1100 was used to track important agricultural and religious dates through symbols used in particular communities.   Then there's the Golden Horns of Gallehus, exquisite artifacts discovered in 1649 and 1734 in Southern Denmark. They show the first use of runic Germanic writing (Proto Norse) in the form of a full sentence. Their display in Danish museums was interrupted by a horrible event. Join me as we learn about these two national treasures and hear a Nordic song from 1300 written in runes with notes.  These are two famous cultural icons that you've probably never heard of. We also play the oldest song written in Proto-Norse runes entitled, "Drømde mik en drøm i nat" by Ensemble Mare Balticum. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- A transcript of this Primstav and the Horns of Gallehus podcast can be found here. Visit our Extras page for pictures, links, and notes on Primstavs and The Horns.

    National Treasures: The Primstav and the Horns of Gallehus

  7. 08/12/2025

    Nordic Folktales of the Heart

    The heart has long been associated with heavy emotions, from joy to the deepest sorrow.  Why is that?  How long have humans even known there was this organ inside all of us?  In this program we explore the history of what we believe about the heart and the many Nordic and English expressions that refer to the heart.  Then we turn to Nordic folklore to learn what folk belief says about the necessity of having the organ called the heart, even if you are a troll. What might you sacrifice or gain by magically living without a heart (i.e. without a conscience)?  We find out in the stories, "The troll who didn't carry his heart with him", and "The man without a heart." Why is this question about "having a heart" so important today? If you like what you hear, please follow us in your favorite podcast service or app! Links and Pictures for Nordic Folktales of the Heart  (https://nordicontap.podbean.com/p/links-and-pictures-for-man-without-a-heart/)

    Nordic Folktales of the Heart

  8. 03/26/2025

    The Ritual of St. Lucia then and Now with Stina Cowen

    Anthropologist Dimitris Xygalatas said in his book, Rituals: How Seemingly Senseless Acts Make Life Worth Living, that rituals often have no physical result when performed. Instead, rituals are symbolic, and perform a very essential function in the roles of community building, cooperation, and trust. In this Nordic on Tap episode, we delve into the Saint Lucia ritual, which coincides with the old winter solstice date (Dec 13th) on the Julian calendar.  What happens during the St. Lucia ritual? Who participates?  Traditionally in Sweden, Lucia was depicted as a blue-eyed, blonde girl with fair skin. However, in modern times, as the population becomes more diverse, the St. Lucia ritual has evolved to reflect a broader range of backgrounds, promoting greater inclusivity. This highlights how traditions can evolve to reflect societal changes while still maintaining their cultural significance. Join me as we try to make sense of this with Stina Cowan, the Cultural Director at the Swedish Club Northwest, in Seattle, Washington USA.  We also listen to  3 traditional and lovely Lucia Day songs associated with the ritual. See extras and links for this podcast here: Links and Pictures St. Lucia.

    The Ritual of St. Lucia then and Now with Stina Cowen
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About

Join us on an engaging and delightful tour of Nordic culture, through folktales, history, music, and art.

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Stavney
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Nordic on Tap - the podcast

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