Most memorable journeys

In this inspiring episode, I talk with Elly Symons — a passionate Greek-Australian cultural heritage advocate and leading voice in the international campaign to return the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

Elly is the Vice President of the Australian Parthenon Committee and co-founder of the Acropolis Research Group. With deep roots in Ithaca and Agros, Cyprus, she splits her time between Australia, Cyprus, and Athens — often residing in the shadow of the Acropolis.

We dive into:

🇬🇷 The story of Greek and Cypriot emigration to Australia

👰 The fascinating (and sometimes heartbreaking) history of young brides sent ab...

In this exciting episode, we sit down with Dr. Vasilis Papavasiliou, an esteemed academic and tourism scholar with a passion for culture, identity, and the evolution of tourism. As the Head of the Hospitality & Tourism Field and a Senior Lecturer, Dr. Papavasiliou’s work focuses on how individuals and communities engage with tourism and hospitality. His research dives deep into the fascinating areas of cultural anthropology, authenticity, and destination development, particularly in the context of Cyprus. He also shares all the information about his recent TEDxTalk and how tour guides have a social aspect and interaction and play a pivotal ro...

In this episode, we explore the life of Dr. John LaCasse, a man whose journey spans from the heights of wealth and business success to the depths of metaphysical exploration. Born with an innate fascination for adventure and the unknown, John spent 25 years as a successful yacht broker, forming relationships with powerful figures like George Shultz, Gene Hackman, Jacques Cousteau, and even notorious crime figures like Meyer Lansky. But despite the wealth, the fast cars, and the glamorous lifestyle, something profound shifted in John’s life—he began asking, “Why am I living this life?”

This question led to a seri...

In this episode, we sit down with Pat Labez, a dynamic and multifaceted individual who has embraced life’s many transitions, from a young realtor to a passionate advocate for seniors and mental health. Born in the Philippines, raised in Hawaii, and having lived from coast to coast in the U.S., Pat’s journey has been anything but conventional, but it’s a testament to the power of reinvention and purpose.

Pat is the founder of Third Act Encore Publishing and curator of the book Third Act Encore, where I had the honor of contributing a chapter. T...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Andreas Christodoulides, the visionary founder of Zela Aviation and Zela Jet. 

Andreas was born and raised in Cyprus and has spent the majority of his life living in the UK. He now resides in Greece with his family, his company currently has offices in Cyprus, Greece and the UK. 

Andreas’ passion for aviation started at a very young age. From the moment he could remember, he was fascinated by planes and flying. As a boy, he dreamt of becoming a pilot, but his parents didn’t share th...

In this episode, we’re joined by Angela Betancourt, a seasoned global communications expert and storyteller with a rich and diverse career. Angela has spent her life embracing bold moves, whether it was helping rebuild economies in post-Ebola Sierra Leone, promoting sustainable tourism in Central America, or even joining the U.S. Air Force Reserves in her late 30s. With over 30 countries under her belt and experiences across multiple continents, Angela has always found herself chasing the next adventure, embracing the unknown, and connecting deeply with people from all walks of life.

Through her incredible journey, Angela has learn...

In this inspiring episode, we are joined by Hélène Alexi Ioannides, a globally recognized Systemic Therapist, Leadership & Authenticity Coach, and Sound Healer. Known for her heart-centered yet fierce approach to transformation, Hélène has helped countless individuals reconnect with their truth and reclaim their personal power.

With a diverse international background, Hélène has lived in multiple countries, including Italy, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, and the UK. She shares how her experiences in these places have shaped her life and career, with Italy standing out as her favorite country—a place that has deeply influenc...

Dayna Reggero has been a guest before on Most Memorable Journeys. She is a big supporter of community and has introduced me to Paula. She is joining the episode for support and more insights.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative journey of Paula Swepson-Avery, a woman whose career shift from manufacturing to community-driven leadership has had a profound impact on her hometown of West Marion, North Carolina.

After spending decades working for Broyhill Furniture and rising through the ranks, Paula faced layoffs that ultimately nudged her into a new professional direction. In 2016, she...

Rosamaria is the author of the book SOS Podcasts. In the book she 

tells her unique story of being a woman, wife, and mother living abroad. A self described “big pain,” hypochondriac, and perfectionist, she details her quirks and how they were exacerbated during her time in both Italy and Germany, and how she turned to podcasts to feel less alone and more connected. In a refreshingly original, funny, assertive, and honest voice she lays it all out – from her tendency toward hyper protective parenting and Catholic guilt to her opinions on air conditioning, military wives, German food, a...

Reaching 200 podcast episodes is no small feat—and I wanted to mark the occasion with something truly special.

When I mentioned this to a friend, she said, “Why don’t you be the guest for once, instead of the host?”

I loved the idea immediately. But then came the next question: Who would host it?

And then it hit me—who better than my brilliant young friend Emilia Papadopoulos?

An award-winning television and radio journalist, Emilia was a Senior Broadcast Journalist at the BBC and a News Correspondent for BBC News, BBC London N...

I haven't done an episode on my own for a while but my recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania deserves to be shared with my audience.

In this episode I am taking you on a captivating adventure through East Africa—Kenya and Tanzania. From the friendly people and stunning landscapes to the mesmerizing wildlife, every aspect of this journey was nothing short of magical.

I am sharing my experience of traveling through East Africa with Gate 1’s organized tour, where I was not only introduced to the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people and the...

Great banter about the fashion industry, Paris fashion week, how to travel in style on a private jet and homophobia in Cyprus. A conversation straight from the heart reminding Anna Vissi that she needs to wear Michalis' scarf and Lady Gaga that she needs to have one of Michalis' scarfs. 

Michalis Pantelidis (Nicosia, 1993) is a Cypriot Textiles Designer. He graduated from the University of the West of England in Bristol. During his studies, he interned at the atelier of Iris Van Herpen and Ronald Van Der Kemp in Amsterdam, where he gained experience in couture. He also wo...

Morgan is a nurse practitioner who loves to travel, write, and capture moments through photography, she is committed to assisting individuals in achieving balance in their lives through coaching and consulting. 

Her personalized lifestyle and wellness coaching approach is designed to empower you to adopt a growth centered and fulfilling life through experience and creativity. What makes her business unique is how she can tie travel and creativity into your transformation through her blog, travel consultations, inspiring photo gallery, and handmade gifts. 

She is also an award winning travel photographer. Her recent photography in Africa has b...

Andrew Serra is the author of several books, including The Dead Florentines, La Petite Parisienne, and Zuccotti Park. In 2018, he published Finding John, a memoir of his experience as a firefighter responding to the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. He has been featured on FOX-5 NY Good Day Wake Up, NY1 News Around the Boroughs, and Z100 Elvis Duran and the Morning Show. He lives in New York City with his wife and two children. 

He is a retired New York City fire captain and since retiring from the Fire Department, him and his wife spend 2-3 mo...

Yaren Fadiloglulari is a Turkish Cypriot freelance writer for travel publications and a content writer for travel and education companies. She has participated in the Rotary Friendship Exchange program and spent a month in the US when she was a teenager. Trying to keep the conversation with this beautiful young woman as unpolitical as possible. She recently joined the Cyprus Travel Writers and Journalists Society and I wanted to find out more about this interesting writer. 

A Cyprus native, she has written for travel publications like The Independent, Euronews, and Time Out. I’m also a B2B & B...

Born in Athens, Greece as an Air Force brat, Teri M Brown came into this world with an imagination full of stories to tell. She now calls the North Carolina coast home, and the peaceful nature of the sea has been a great source of inspiration for her creativity.

Not letting 2020 get the best of her, Teri chose to go on an adventure that changed her outlook on life. She and her husband, Bruce, rode a tandem bicycle across the United States from Astoria, Oregon to Washington DC, successfully raising money for Toys for Tots. She learned...

Jorge Salas-Guevara is the President and Founder of New Paths Expeditions (NPE); his journey began at a very young age when he had the fortune to spend his summers in the rugged beauty of Patagonia, where he embraced the role of a mountain and trekking guide. Such experiences ignited a lifelong commitment to adventure and exploration. These early ventures laid the groundwork for a unique career in travel, drawing the attention of premier travel brands in the U.S. and affording him the honor of learning from some of the world’s most venerated expedition leaders.

Jorge’s pr...

California Girl Pam was always spontaneous, but then a 3 month trip overseas turns into an epic journey as she backpacked around the world SOLO for 3 years. Her sarcasm and optimism got her into and out of trouble through Africa, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand in the 1990's.

 Follow her adventures as she fumbles her way into EVERYTHING. Sarcastic and optimistic at all the wrong moments, she will keep you laughing as she learns things that you probably already know. She sidesteps dangerous situations from wacky weirdos to wild animals, from mother nature to social a...

Maddi Bourgerie is the Director of Communications and Travel Expert Spokesperson at RVshare. Since joining the company three years ago, Bourgerie has been dedicated to raising awareness for the brand and RV travel as a whole managing the company's publicity and brand initiatives. She is dedicated to the company’s mission to help travelers feel invigorated by the magic of an RV adventure. As an active RVer herself, Bourgerie has rented many unique models from the site. She has RVed on the East and West Coast checking off National Parks and music festivals from her bucket list. Prior to RV...

Adam Stuart and his family recently returned home from a year of travel with a family of 6. He quit my dream job and left corporate America to do something crazy. They made stops in 18 countries. Now they are back in the US trying to acclimate to modern American life but also trying to bring the lessons they learned into their lives! In this episode he shares the story and talks about how we can live out our dreams with a bit of planning, risk, and luck! It's definitely an adventure of a lifetime.

Aisha is a resilient Mongolian artist, engineer, and entrepreneur with a remarkable life journey. It all started as an orphan in Russia, but she refused to let her circumstances define her. Instead, she embarked on a thrilling adventure, traveling the world and gaining an engineering degree in Norway.

Together with co-founding a successful property management company in Portugal, Lisbon White Rose LLC, she transformed spaces into captivating havens, including a boutique hotel with uniquely designed rooms.

Her insatiable curiosity and language fluency allowed her to explore over 70 countries, broadening her horizons. Settling i...

Sarah Casewit is an expert travel consultant, business advisor, entrepreneur, and creator of transformative experiences. With over 15 years in the luxury travel industry, Sarah is an experienced entrepreneur, trusted business consultant, and travel expert specializing in transformative travel and bespoke experiences. Her career began in Buenos Aires, Argentina, playing a key role at a luxury tour operator and an award-winning venture. Later, Sarah co-founded a pioneering travel company for several years, trailblazing a pathway for female business owners and women in travel. Most recently, Sarah held an executive position at a leading travel tech firm in California and worked...

Bert terHart left Victoria, BC, on October 27, 2019, with the goal of emulating solo navigators who travelled half a century or more ago—without electronic charts, or GPS. Thus, he passed the five great southern capes going east using only a sextant, paper charts, pencil and log tables—a feat previously accomplished by eight single-handing sailors in the past, but none of them starting from North America.

He’s faced extreme weather, dwindling supplies and unexpected repairs that have extended his trip from six to nine months — and yet, he’s been dubbed “the safest person on the planet.”

He calls himself a fairly normal guy from Pittsburgh that strayed a long way from home. He has been a mentor of tech founders for 30 years, and a father of kids for 11. The similarities are remarkable.

His day job has been to help create over 1,100 jobs while founding, financing, building and exiting three digital media companies. Prior to that, he was a Venture Principal at Capital Express, hosted MoneyHunt on PBS (pre- SharkTank), led over 1,500 people across 14 miles of open sea on kayak, and trekked 1,100 miles through the deserts of Saudi, Jordan and Syria… and A Line in...

Valentinos started an online Greek tutoring business while he was studying in the UK and has been running it for many years.

However, he comes from a bee-keeping family. Since 1983, they have been working professionally in the bee-keeping sector. Over all these years, thanks to their hard work and a love of bees, they have managed to build strong relationships with their customers, founded on trust. They take a responsible approach to the entire process of making honey from the hive to consumers, meaning they can ensure the high quality and authenticity of our honey.

...

Thales Panagides graduated with an MBA in Entrepreneurship in 1998. He spent weeks searching for a job in the financial district of New York City and realized Wall Street wasn’t the right fit for a Cypriot who spent most of his summers on the beach. Uncertain about his future and how to leverage his business degree, he decided to visit his cousin in Brazil who just launched an Internet company. The plan was to spend a couple of weeks, but he ended up staying for ten fruitful years. Thales was offered a stake in his cousin’s technology company call...

Life is a journey and we all have our stories. Sharing those stories helps others be brave enough to break their own silences. Let's be kind to ourselves, each other and make this world a better place.

He has a desire for self development, mental health awareness and a budding passion to learn more about himself and others in order to make himself a better human being and in extension, help others be better human beings.

I met Rick during a Master Coach Training in Dubai and was fascinated by his stories about living in...

At just 21 years old, historian and author Schmidt has established himself as a dedicated truth-seeker. Since penning his 8-part educational series "History Bites" at age 12, Schmidt has made it his mission to inspire young minds and uncover the stories that shaped America.

With a number of exclusive interviews with household names such as Bob Shapiro, Megyn Kelly, Mike Tyson, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., O.J. Simpson, Donald Trump and many others, what lead him to his latest interview subject is a fascinating story.

His latest work, "Legal Gladiator," is the only biography of Alan Dershowitz...

When Cole Sjoholm was asked, "Would you go?" his answer transformed his life in ways he never imagined. In 2023, he embarked on an extraordinary journey, setting foot on all seven continents in just one year—solo. From the vibrant cities of Europe to the icy expanses of Antarctica, and from the sun-drenched landscapes of Australia to the bustling streets of the Far East, Cole completed 71 flights, covered 110,246 miles, and spent 167 nights exploring the world. This wasn't just about ticking items off a bucket list; it was about discovering a new way of living and filling his bucket with unforgettable ex...

I met Costa at the Cyprus Diaspora Forum (Thank you Paul Lambis) and started following him on social media. I am fascinated by his zest for life and how he enjoys everything he does whether it’s traveling the world, exploring Cyprus or dancing Salsa with his wife Anna.

Costa was born in Melbourne, Australia, and moved to Cyprus as an adult. In Australia, he studied psychology, psycho-neurosciences, politics and history at a bachelor level, followed by a master’s in international relations and law. He is the Director of CONSTANTi, a consultancy offering social and political anal...

Becky Lukovic is a 20 year veteran in the travel industry.  She started On the Go Travel Company in Indiana in 2001 after an “aha” moment in Sorrento, Italy.  Standing on a bridge overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples, Becky realized planning independent and culture-centric travel was her passion.  In the next 20 years, she would use that passion to design unique, custom adventures for her clients.

Becky developed an extensive book of luxury travel connections and became involved in the American Society of Travel Agents, held a position on the Mid-America Chapter board, and served on the national ASTA communi...

Neil Laird is a multiple Emmy-nominated director of historical films for Discovery, BBC, PBS, History Channel, National Geographic, and many other networks. He has produced over 100 programs around the globe that feature crumbling Egyptian tombs, lost Mayan cities, and mysterious shipwrecks at the bottom of the sea.

He is a TV producer turned novelist and discusses his unique career journey and the creation of his comedic time travel novels like Prime Time Travelers. Neil shares how his background in the TV industry and his passion for ancient history and mythology inspired his writing. We dive into the...

Elisa is a mother of 5 sons which she brought up mostly on her own and lived in Texas, Miami, Canada, France. She overcame extreme challenges and create a life that she loves.

In May 2016, she founded#happy2succeed, intending to bring awareness and wellbeing to body and mind. She inspires and and empowers women globally to discover their hidden power with a positive spiritual mindset method, to grow their Authentic Self, and powerfully fulfilled, to make an impact. Helping Women Globally with Kindness & Joy! #Body-Mind-Soul ELISA has served hundreds of individuals worldwide and created thousands of happy...

Anna-Maria Athanasiou wrote her first books, The Waiting for Summer novels in secret, firstly because she never thought she’d finish them and secondly, it was a completely new territory for her. Throughout her life Anna-Maria had regularly created scenarios and stories in her head, thinking that one day she would finally put them down on paper. Eventually, in the September of 2011 she took the plunge and started to write down an idea that she'd been creating for almost ten years.

Waiting for Summer books one and two are the result of her small idea, and she fi...

Stefan was born and raised in Switzerland. He studied economics in Zurich and ended up in business journalism and wrote for Finanz und Wirtschaft, Berner Zeitung, Tages-Anzeiger and Handelszeitung.

He loves to travel and started globetrotting as a young child with his parents. He has always been fascinated by planes and airports and became the founder and editor of aeroTELEGRAPH, an online platform all about planes, flying, airports etc.

He is the author of the book “Fascination Airport - The most beautiful airports and their stories” which is available on Amazon.

https://www.aero...

Susan spent 16 years gaining extensive corporate and management experience at a senior level in Equity Sales, Research and Corporate Marketing in investment banks DLJ, Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley and Citigroup. Passionate about helping people reach their full potential, she has developed training courses, facilitated development workshops and mentored high potential individuals throughout her career. Between jobs, she travelled to France to learn French and fell in love with Carcassonne where she spent the money that she had saved to buy a studio flat in London on a house.

Today, she is an experienced and professionally qualified corporate...

Tracy lives in Johannesburg, South Africa. After realising that she didn’t need to compete with the world for acceptance and belonging – that it was something within her – she was inspired to help others to do the same.

In addition to her work as a transformational catalyst and speaker, she is an independent financial consultant, as well as an accomplished photographer, specialising in portraiture.

In her spare time, she love connecting with her daughters, family and friends, spending time in nature and enjoying international travel. She is passionate about people, intrigued with how we relate to our...

Agni Scott was born and raised in Cyprus and is a multilingual actress whose first language is Greek. She spent the first 18 years of her life on the sunny shores of the Mediterranean island before moving to the United States to pursue higher education.

Agni Scott is known for Bridget Jones's Baby (2016), Persuasion (2022) and Spooks (2002) but we all fell in love with her in “Find me Falling”, the recent movie produced in Cyprus which is trending on Netflix.

Agni has an MFA in acting from Brandeis University and earned a BFA in acting from Florida Inte...

Rania was born during the war in Beirut in 1975 . Her childhood education was in Beirut and she studied at the very prestigious AUB (American University of Beirut)

Her journey has taken her from Germany to the UK, to Saudi Arabia and the UAE and now, she lives with her beautiful family in Cyprus. She has learned to the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. She has a mind for business, values that were taught by her family as well as love for culture, art and island life.

Ranya is a seasoned businesswoman and educator with...

Kelly Groehler is a corporate communications executive in the U.S. and the creator, executive producer and host of The WTAF Show: Women. Travel. Art. Food. It’s the only women-first food & travel show out there – and a double entendre. Kelly created the show after seeing women are the travel,

food and art super consumers, yet 95% of food & travel shows are hosted by men. The stories they share on The WTAF Show are by women, about women, and told by women. Their episodes focus on the incredible creations by the top chefs and contemporary artists living and work...