Hello Iceland

James sits with Jóhann, a librarian at the National and University Library, to talk about books, family, and growing up in Iceland. Have something to share? You can reach us at helloicelandpod@gmail.com

James talks music with Óli Dóri, events manager for KEX Hostel in Reyjkavik. Not only a place to stay while you visit, KEX is also a popular concert venue. 

James sits down with Thordur Thordarson, director of the Icelandic Phallological Museum.  Thordur shares the story of how the museum came to be,  clears up some common misconceptions, and offers some thoughts about why this one of a kind museum sprung up in Iceland. Want to get in touch? helloicelandpod@gmail.com

James chats with University of Iceland education professor Edda Óskarsdóttir about how public education in Iceland compares with practices in the United States. 

How do Iceland's unique geothermal resources get converted to electricity? How can other nations follow Iceland's example of generating clean energy? James travels to Hellisheiði Power Station, one of the world's largest geothermal power plants, to learn about their approach to energy production from Halldór Atlason. Halldór works at the Geothermal Energy Expedition at Hellisheiði, about 30 km from Reykjavík. 

Brief intro episode previewing the podcast Hello Iceland. A curious American investigates the people and culture of Iceland through interviews with Icelanders about their life and interests. Topics will include:Faith and religion with a priest from Hallgrímskirkja church, The music scene with the events manager of KEX HostelIceland's commitment to renewable energy at Hellisheiði Power StationThe story of how the world's only penis museum came to beThe rich tradition of literature with a librarian from the National and University LibraryIceland's approach to education with a professor from the University of IcelandFeedback is welcome by email to helloicelandpod@gmail.com

How do the long winters impact Icelanders' faith? How does the poetic tradition influence Icelanders' understanding of scripture? James discusses faith and religion with Sigurður Árni Þórðarson, a parish priest at Hallgrímskirkja church. Feedback is welcome by email to helloicelandpod@gmail.com