🎙️ Season 3 · Episode 10 | Being Greek Without Looking Greek | Identity & Belonging (with Pauline Lee)

🎙️S4 I E6   The Hidden Gem of the Greek Islands: Kythera

Discover Kythera (Kythira), one of Greece's most beautiful and underrated islands. In Episode 6 of Season 4, The Greek Podyssey takes you beyond the well-known destinations to explore a hidden paradise where stunning beaches, traditional villages, rich history, and authentic Greek culture come together. Located between the Peloponnese and Crete, Kythera offers a unique blend of Venetian heritage, breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a slower pace of life that captures the true spirit of Greece. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of Kythera, from picturesque coastal villages and historic landmarks to some of the island's most spectacular natural wonders. Whether you're planning a trip to Greece, searching for lesser-known Greek islands, or simply love discovering extraordinary destinations, this episode is for you. Subscribe to The Greek Podyssey for more stories, travel documentaries, and cultural journeys from Greece and the Greek diaspora. 00:00 Why Kythira Matters 00:51 Hidden Gem Islands 01:46 Nature Honey Beaches 02:21 History And Location 03:11 Aphrodite Mythology 04:05 Locals And Diaspora 05:13 Antikythera Mechanism 08:03 Shipwreck Discovery 09:39 Why I Love Kythira 12:07 Food Cheese And Honey 13:05 Proud Island Identity 13:43 Quiz Sweets And Music 16:27 Signature Spiced Liqueur 17:15 Cold Cures and Raki Tales 17:40 Meeting the Locals 18:53 Getting There and Onassis Legacy 20:05 Venetian Castles and History 20:37 Winter Return and Island Nature 21:56 Churches and Hilltop Mystery 24:05 Miracle Monastery Legends 25:08 Offbeat Walks and Moving Plans 26:11 Diaspora Community and Name Debate 26:55 Food Rivalries and Farewell

🎙️Season 4 I Ep5 Hellenism Endures: Identity, History & the Future of the Greek Community | Costas Vertzayias

In Episode 5 of The Greek Podyssey, lawyer, author, and community advocate Costas Vertzayias joins us for a deep discussion on Hellenism, the Greek Revolution of 1821, Greek identity, and the future of the Greek diaspora. Together, we explore how Greek language, faith, education, and culture survived through the Ottoman period and helped shape the rebirth of the modern Greek state. We discuss the role of diaspora schools, the Orthodox Church, philhellenism, and the influence of Britain and Russia in post-revolution Greece. The conversation also turns to the challenges facing Greek communities today — including demographic decline, the future of Greek associations, community leadership, land and governance issues, and the importance of younger generations becoming active participants in preserving Hellenism. From culture and identity to politics, history, and faith, this episode is a thoughtful and passionate conversation about the enduring spirit of Hellenism and the responsibility of carrying it forward for future generations. If you are interested in Greek history, Greek culture, the Greek diaspora, Hellenism, the Greek Orthodox Church, community leadership, post-1821 Greece, or the future of Greek identity, this episode is essential viewing. Subscribe to The Greek Podyssey for conversations on Greek history, culture, politics, music, identity, and the global Greek experience. CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:24 Diaspora Schools Under Ottomans 04:40 Defining Hellenism Today 07:12 Politics and Demographic Crisis 09:46 Rebirth of the Greek State 12:25 Culture Over DNA Debates 14:55 Greek Civilization and Theatre 19:19 Diaspora and Philhellenes After 1821 20:43 Britain, Russia and Ottoman Strategy 22:05 British Power Politics 23:32 Crimean War Lessons 24:52 The Islands Join Greece 25:51 Faith in the Revolution 27:31 Church and Identity 29:55 Hellenic Village Crisis 31:41 Land Sale Fallout 34:32 Panhellenic Future Fund 35:25 Who Controls the Money? 39:38 Rally Members to Vote 42:17 Final Call to Action

🎙️ S4 EP3 I Pontian Genocide: Memory, Truth & Justice | Dr Panagiotis Diamantis

In this deeply emotional episode of The Greek Podyssey, historian Dr Panagiotis Diamantis joins us to discuss the Pontian Greek Genocide, the events surrounding 19 May, and the lasting impact on Hellenism and the Greek diaspora. We explore the history of Pontus, the persecution and forced displacement of Pontian Greeks, the definition of genocide, historical evidence, survivor memories, and why recognition and remembrance still matter today. This episode is dedicated to the memory of the hundreds of thousands of Pontian Greeks who lost their lives and to those who preserved their identity, culture, and history through generations. Topics include: • Pontian Greek Genocide • History of Pontus • 19 May remembrance day • Definition of genocide • Greek history and Hellenism • Pontian culture and identity • Historical truth and justice • Greek diaspora stories Subscribe to The Greek Podyssey for conversations on history, culture, Hellenism, and the stories that shape our people

🎙️ S4, EP2 Ethnic Humor & Comedy in the Studio with Angelo Tsarouchas & Arianna Papalexopoulos

In this hilarious and insightful episode of The Greek Podyssey, we sit down with comedians Angelo Tsarouchas and Arianna Papalexopoulos to talk about Greek humor, stand-up comedy, diaspora identity, culture, fear, family, and the power of laughter. From growing up in ethnic households to finding confidence through comedy, this conversation dives deep into why Greek humor connects with so many people around the world. We also explore the immigrant mindset, losing touch with your roots, life on tour, and why doing things that scare you can completely change your life.   This episode is packed with laughs, relatable stories, and honest moments that every Greek — and every ethnic family — will understand. 👇 Listen, comment & subscribe for more conversations with inspiring Hellenes and Philhellenes from around the world.

S4-EP 1 The Rise of Greek Wine with Peter Papanikitas | The Greek Podyssey

In this episode of The Greek Podyssey, we sit down with Peter Papanikitas from Estate Wines to explore the rise of Greek wine and how Greek wines are competing in the global market. From ancient vineyards to modern winemaking, Greek wine is becoming one of the most exciting categories in the world. But how do Greek wines compare to French and Italian wines? And why are they still considered underrated? We break down: * The quality of Greek wines and indigenous grape varieties like Assyrtiko and Xinomavro * How Greek wine ranks globally * Why Greek wines are underrated * The future of Greek wine in international markets Whether you’re into wine tasting, wine education, or discovering the best Greek wines, this episode gives you expert insight into one of the fastest-growing wine regions. 🎙️ Featuring Peter Papanikitas (Estate Wines