Caroline Älvebrink Calais, M.S., M.A.

Political Economist • Journalist • International Affairs Analyst

Dallas, Texas | Swedish-American | Podcast Host & Media Contributor

Profile 

Swedish-born and American-naturalized political economist and journalist with a global background spanning Sweden, Venezuela, and the United States. Experienced in international political economy, political reporting, energy and environmental policy, and public affairs. Skilled communicator with a record of published work in major Scandinavian and U.S. outlets. Known for analytical depth, cross-cultural insight, and the ability to translate complex political and economic developments into clear, compelling narratives.

Education 

M.S., International Political Economy – University of Texas at Dallas

M.A., Liberal Arts – Southern Methodist University, Dallas

Certificate in Journalism – Poppius School of Journalism, Stockholm

B.Sc., Sociology – Uppsala University,

Professional Experience

Journalist & Political Economist | Dallas, Texas (2008–present)

Examiner.com (Clarity Media Group); CBS Local; Independent Contributor

• Covered Texas energy markets, environmental policy, and state political developments.
• Reported on Texas elections and public-policy debates with a focus on socioeconomic impacts.
• Lifestyle writer for CBS Dallas following the closure of Examiner.com in 2016.
• Published in major Swedish outlets including Svenska Dagbladet, Aftonbladet, and Uppsala Nya Tidning.
• Launched the Swedish-language podcast “Hänt i Veckan med Caroline Älvebrink Calais” (2021), covering U.S. news and politics.
• Co-developed and co-host “Only in America” (2023–), an English-language podcast offering U.S. news and analysis from a Texas perspective for a European and Scandinavian audience.

Research & Teaching, University of Texas at Dallas (2005–2008)

• Research and Teaching Assistant in International Political Economy.
• Provided research support for faculty and led undergraduate breakout sessions.
• Research Fellow, American Center for International Policy Studies.
• Areas of focus included global political economy, trade, and U.S. public policy.

Foreign Correspondent | Caracas, Venezuela (1992–1995)

Contributor to Svenska Dagbladet

• Delivered political and economic reporting from Venezuela for one of Sweden’s leading newspapers.
• Coordinated educational support initiatives for children in underserved communities by mobilizing resources from businesses, embassies, and diplomatic circles.

Early Career: Strategic Marketing, Texas Instruments (TIITC), Stockholm

• Played a key role in strategic consumer-division marketing initiatives.
• Contributed to brand development, market positioning, and international communication efforts.

Additional Background

• Former fashion model with international experience.
• Swedish native from the island of Gräsö; naturalized U.S. citizen (Dallas, Texas since 1995).
• Multilingual: Swedish (native), English (fluent), Spanish (conversational).

Interests

Reining horses • Afghan hounds • Cats • Scandinavian and U.S. politics • International affairs

Personal

Married to Mikael Calais