Talk & Connect (formerly LinkedIn Meetup) - guest: Derek Hartman

Name: Talk & Connect (formerly LinkedIn Meetup) - guest: Derek Hartman
Start: 2026-09-09T18:30:00+02:00
End: 2026-09-09T20:30:00+02:00
Location: Borgernes Hus

Talk_and_Connect_september_Event_Grafik-9-Event_FB_Cover_1.png

We are introducing a new name for a well-known concept: International LinkedIn Meetup is now called Talk & Connect. Same concept, still Martijn facilitating but a brand new name.

It’s an evening to learn, connect, share experiences, and grow your network in an open and welcoming atmosphere.

On September 9 we are happy to invite Derek Hartman on to the stage for a talk about Danish social and workspace culture.

The event takes place in the Music Library Area on the 2nd floor in Borgernes Hus. The event will begin at 18.30.

His talk is called

“Soft on the Inside - Decoding Danish Social and Workplace Culture”.

In a diverse workplace, we all socialize differently. Some colleagues may appear reserved and difficult to approach, while others can come across as overly enthusiastic and even superficial. Often, neither of these impressions are accurate and there is more beneath the surface.

This workshop examines the “coconut culture” theory and how different social expectations influence collaboration, networking, feedback, and belonging in and out of the workplace.

The talk will guide you to:

• Recognize how different communication and relationship-building styles can create misunderstandings in diverse teams.

• Learn practical ways to build trust, connection, and stronger workplace relationships across cultures.

• Develop greater cultural awareness and empathy when working with Danish and international colleagues.

About Derek Hartman
Derek Hartman is an American content creator, podcast host, and speaker who has spent nearly a decade helping internationals better understand life, work, and culture in Denmark. Through his podcast, What Are You Doing in Denmark, he explores Danish society, workplace culture, integration, and the everyday experiences of internationals living in Denmark.

Derek combines personal experience, humor, and cultural analysis to make complex social dynamics approachable and relatable through storytelling.

👥 Why should I join Talk & Connect?
This meetup is for internationals and locals in Odense who want to:

• Expand their professional and social network in an authentic way
• Meet others who live and work in Denmark
• Get inspired by meaningful talks and conversations
• Be part of a friendly, international community

Whether you’re new in town, building your career, or simply curious to meet new people - internationals as well as Danes - this evening is for you.

💡 What you’ll get out of this event?
• New professional and personal connections in a relaxed, international setting
• A stronger local network that helps you feel more at home in Odense
Inspiration and ideas from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives
• A friendly space to exchange knowledge, opportunities, and stories

• Confidence to grow your network both online and offline

Organizers
The event is organized in cooperation between International House Odense, Syddansk Universitet – University of Southern Denmark and Everybody Networks Here.

We’re looking forward to see you!

Pre-chat for participants
You have the option of joining a pre-event LinkedIn Group Chat where attendees can introduce themselves and start connecting before the event. The pre-chat is optional🚀

In our private chat, you can:

- Give a quick introduction of yourself
- Share your LinkedIn profile so that it's easy to connect
- Continue the conversation after the event if wanted

To join:

1. Connect with Martijn (Everybody Networks Here) on LinkedIn: Martijn Koekkoek (if already connected go to step 2 straight away!)
2. I will ask if you want to be part of the group quickly or you can already send Martijn a quick DM.
3. We’ll add you to the private group chat within 24 hours

📷 PHOTO AND VIDEO:
Photos and videos will be recorded during the event for publicity and marketing purposes. We use an online tool for editing and storing our marketing materials. If you prefer not to be photographed, please inform one of the team members from International House Odense present at the event.

Read more about your rights and how City of Odense protects your data here: https://www.odense.dk/privatlivspolitik - or contact us at internationalhouse@odense.dk.