Greece Chats Podcast with Tony Kariotis

In this episode of the Greece Chats Podcast with Tony Kariotis, Chef Christos Bisiotis shares his remarkable journey from Greece to the United States. From his first job at Christos Steakhouse to cooking for President Obama at the White House, Christos reflects on the experiences that shaped his career and the philosophy that guides his cooking. He opens up about his time at Eataly, the importance of management in the kitchen, the impact of the pandemic on his plans, and how he built new ventures such as Terpsi Hospitality and Bellita Pasta in Miami. Throughout the conversation, Christos emphasizes the role of family, simplicity, and Greek culture in his life and his food.The episode wraps up with a fun rapid fire session where Christos shares his favorite places to visit in Greece, his go-to traditional dishes, thoughts on Greek coffee culture, and even his signature dish.Stay tuned until the end as I ask Christos our signature sign off question: what does being Greek mean to you?Learn more about Christos at christosbisiotis.com

In this episode Greece Chats returns from summer vacation to start Season 6! In this episode we discuss what is happening in Greece right now! We also discuss Tony's recent wedding in Greece and sailing catamarans around the Aegean.Topics we touch on:-Greece Closing Schools-Birth rates are at an all time low in Greece-Complexities of getting married in Greece-Greece and Giannis Antetokounmpo are making a serious run to win the EuroBasket2025-Is Greece two countries? Is Mykonos its own world?-Should you tip in Greece?-and much much more!Links to services mentioned in episode:Greek Citizenship Acquisition - https://www.getgreece.com/greekcitizenshipProperty Inheritance Assistance - https://www.getgreece.com/property-inheritance

This week on the Greece Chats Podcast I’m joined once again by Nikitas Tsoukales as we dive into the Coldplay controversy and the global reaction it sparked. We talk about the disappearing act of Greeks in America during peak vacation season. Paros was named Best Island in Europe by Travel and Leisure, sparking a debate between Tony and Nikitas. A heatwave hits Greece, Michael Jordan hosts the Board of Greatness event with NBA stars, and the Hellinikon Tower reaches its halfway mark. Kansas City Chiefs star George Karlaftis signs a major contract extension, and we discuss whether Greece is becoming culturally homogenous compared to the 90s and 2000s. And we’re still waiting on Kyriakos Mitsotakis to confirm if you’ve been to Samos.

In this episode of Greece Chats I am joined by Nikitas Tsoukales. Nikitas is a Greek American entrepreneur. Nikitas Tsoukales is the founder of RealTop, a digital marketing agency based in Boston MA. In this episode we discuss what is happening in Greece right now! The Acropolis being closed due to the heat, people being taxed to visit Santorni and Mykonos, flights to Greece are cheaper than ever and a fun fact about John Stamos from Full House, Jessie Kotsopoulos. **GREEK CITIZENSHIP LINK: ⁠https://www.greece-media.com/greekcitizenship⁠** **WILD OLIVE OIL LINK: ⁠https://zoefull.com/products/wild-olive-oil sca_ref=4914230.gcITlDHuVU&sca_source=YOUTUBELINK⁠** Learn more about Nikitas and his businesses at ⁠⁠https://www.nikitas.com⁠⁠. **REALTOP: ⁠https://www.realtop.com⁠**

In this episode, we dive into the complex world of Greek property inheritance. Whether it’s land in the village no one can access, missing paperwork, or family disagreements, this conversation is for anyone in the Greek diaspora who feels stuck and powerless.I’m joined by Leonidas Marcantonatos and John Rigas, co-founders of Nexus Apex Partners, the official Greece Media partner for handling inheritance, tax representation, and accounting cases in Greece. Together, we share real stories and show how there is always a path forward, no matter how complicated it may seem.**Contact our team for your free two-part consultation:🔗 https://www.greece-media.com/property-inheritance☎️ 1-833-694-7332**Topics covered:-How to claim inherited property in Greece-What happens when there is no will-Transferring property from a parent or grandparent-Dealing with missing or destroyed records-Tax representation for Greeks living abroad-Selling vs keeping property-Resolving family disputes around Greek land-The importance of tax representation in Greece-Making the process easier for the next generation

In this episode Greece Chats Podcasts I am joined by Dimitris Kossyfas, CCO of hoper. Dimitris is the Former Ventures Director at Antenna Group & Head of Sales at Google, with a 10-year experience in travel-focused start-ups. Dimitri is now the CCO of hoper. hoper is the first scheduled helicopter airline in Greece, is set to redefine travel by connecting Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos with some of the country’s harder-to-reach islands. With a fleet of five glass-cockpit Robinson helicopters, hoper offers per-seat bookings, allowing passengers to enjoy quick and scenic commutes. This innovative service aims to combine speed, convenience, and breathtaking views for an unparalleled travel experience. hoper in 30’’: Scheduled, minutes-long heli hops across Greece. hoper redefines what hassle-free travel means by combining speed, convenience, and scenic views. Visit flyhoper.com today and book your next hop! Greece Chats Podcast is brought to you by Greece Media. Follow the host of the podcast on social media platforms @iamgreece.

In this episode Greece Chats Podcasts I am joined by Greek Actress Maria Korinthiou. Maria Korinthiou is a renowned Greek actress and model, celebrated for her captivating performances in film, television, and theater. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become a beloved figure in Greek entertainment, known for her versatility and charisma. Maria is also deeply passionate about Greece and Greek culture, often expressing her love for her heritage through her work and public appearances. Her dedication to her craft and her dynamic presence have solidified her status as one of Greece's most prominent and admired actresses. Watch the video edition of this interview at: https://youtu.be/S3wLy0RVt2g -- Greece Chats podcast is brought to you by Greece Media. Do you need help claiming your rightful Greek citizenship? Greece Media can help. Book a consultation today: www.greece-media.com/greekcitizenship

In this episode Greece Chats Podcasts I am joined by Panagiota Niovi Christopoulou. ** You can learn more about Niovi and her campaign at: https://bit.ly/4bHBlIZ ** Niovi is the first Greek-American candidate for New Democracy in the EU Parliament Elections in 2024. Niovi strives to strengthen the connection between Greece and the Greek Diaspora, among many other ambitions. Watch the video edition of this interview at: https://youtu.be/iwGNrC8RCbc https://bit.ly/4bHBlIZGreece Chats podcast is brought to you by Greece Media. Do you need help claiming your rightful Greek citizenship? Greece Media can help. Book a consultation today: www.greece-media.com/greekcitizenship

In this episode of Greece Chats I am joined by Konstantinos Koufos. Konstantinos Koufos, a standout figure in the Greek music scene, has captured hearts with his distinctive voice and memorable hits. Known for chart-toppers like "Metro Antistrofa 5-4-3-2-1" and "H Pio Oraia Stin Ellada," Koufos continues to resonate with fans across Greece and beyond. His latest single, "Elliniki Meraki," adds to his impressive repertoire, showcasing his dynamic range and deep connection to Greek musical traditions. Join us as we discuss his music, success, traditions, his Greece roots, and more. You can watch the full video edition of this interview on Youtube at youtube.com/iamgreece Greece Chats podcast is brought to you by Greece Media. Do you need help claiming your rightful Greek citizenship? Greece Media can help. Book a consultation today: www.greece-media.com/greekcitizenship

In this episode Greece Chats Podcasts hits the road! We are in Tarpon Springs, Florida for a fun interview with Irene Mangles. Irene is the founder of Meli Greek Street Donuts. Serving Greek 'Loukoumades' out of a horse trailer! Irene manglis born and raised in Tarpon springs family immigrated from kalymnos Greece. You can watch the full video edition of this interview on Youtube at youtube.com/iamgreece - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece

In this episode I am joined by Katia Dragotis, the COO and Co-Founder of 'Purple Banter,' where she wrangles microphones and unruly podcast hosts with equal finesse. With a career that's more twisty than a rollercoaster designed by a mad scientist, Katia has spent over a decade in the sports and entertainment industry, proving that life is just one big improv show, and she's the star player. Starting as an on-camera host and reporter, Katia quickly realized that talking about other people's achievements was fun, but creating her own chaos was even better. Enter 'Purple Banter,' where she's the puppet master behind the scenes, ensuring that every podcast episode is a delightful blend of insight, laughter, and the occasional goat noise (because why not?). Described as the Rubik's Cube of personalities, Katia is the puzzle everyone wants to solve but ends up just admiring from a distance.  Some say she's the only person who can simultaneously run a podcast network and organize a spontaneous dance-off in the office kitchen. Katia Dragotis is the maestro of 'Purple Banter' and the reigning queen of turning chaos into comedy. So, grab your headphones, brace yourself for a rollercoaster of laughter, and join Katia on this podcasting journey where every episode is a surprise party she didn't know she was hosting. Described as the Rubik's Cube of personalities, Katia is the puzzle everyone wants to solve but ends up just admiring from a distance. She's the reason the office coffee machine has a panic button and the emergency kit includes both a stapler and a stress ball. Hailing from the land of 10,000 lakes (and probably 10,000 more podcast ideas), Minneapolis, Minnesota, Katia proudly brings her Greek-American flair to the palm tree-filled chaos of Los Angeles. She's the only person who can seamlessly transition from discussing the latest sports scores to passionately arguing about the proper way to pronounce "gyro." - GreeceChats Podcast is brought to your by The Greek Mortgage Guy, Savvas Fetfatsidis. Let Savvas help you get pre-approved for a mortgage today! Visit www.rate.com/savvas - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

**Book a Greek citizenship consultation today and start your journey of obtaining your Greek dual citizenship, visit https://www.greece-media.com/greekcit... ** Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, where I, Tony Kariotis, dive deep into the fascinating world of obtaining Greek dual citizenship. Join us for an enlightening journey as we explore this topic with none other than citizenship specialist Rose Livaditis from the renowned Law Office of Pardalis and Nohavicka. **🌟 Special Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by The Greek Mortgage Guy, Savvas Fetfatsidis. Looking to secure a mortgage to buy your dream home? Let Savvas guide you towards the perfect deal. Discover more at https://www.rate.com/savvas ** 🌟 In-Depth Interview: Tony Kariotis interviews Rose Livaditis, with her vast expertise, sheds light on the entire process of acquiring Greek dual citizenship. From documentation to legal nuances, we've covered it all! 🔍 Popular Questions Answered: We tackle the most commonly asked questions about Greek citizenship, providing you with clear, concise answers. Whether it's about eligibility, the application process, or benefits, we've got you covered. 📖 Begin Your Journey to Citizenship: Ready to embark on the path to Greek citizenship? Visit greece-media.com/greekcitizenship to book your consultation today. Take advantage of our special discount on consultations and make your dream of becoming a Greek citizen a reality. Watch The Video Editor here: https://youtu.be/xYjLR0L-Li4 Get expert insights from Rose Livaditis. Understand the comprehensive process of gaining Greek citizenship. Learn about the benefits and requirements in an easy-to-understand format. Exclusive tips and advice not found elsewhere. 👍 Don't forget to Like, Share, and Subscribe: If you find this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more insightful content. Your support helps us bring more useful guides and expert interviews. - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

🏖️ Join me on a journey to the stunning Paros Island in Greece, where I share my personal experiences and top recommendations for things to do on this breathtaking Aegean gem. In this video, I delve into the heart of Paros, uncovering its hidden treasures and popular spots. From the charming cobblestone streets of Naoussa to the serene beauty of Kolymbithres Beach, get ready to explore the best of Paros through my eyes. 🌟 Special Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by The Greek Mortgage Guy, Savvas Fetfatsidis. Looking to secure a mortgage to buy your dream home? Let Savvas guide you towards the perfect deal. Discover more at https://www.rate.com/savvas Discover the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes Paros a must-visit destination. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, there's something for everyone on this enchanting island. 🔗 Links Mentioned in the Episode: -Book Tours in Paros: https://getyourguide.tp.st/oteWIODY -Book Tickets to Paros: https://www.greece-media.com/ferrytickets -Buy my Greece photography book: https://www.greece-media.com/nakedgreece -Watch NakedNaousa: https://youtu.be/xv6cZFRy9lY -Get a Mortgage with Savvas: https://www.rate.com/savvas 📌 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more travel tips and adventures. Your support means the world! 🌐 Follow me on social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes content. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamgreece Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamgreece.tony TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamgreece

In this episode I am joined by Angelo Tsarouchas. If you are part of the Greek community, you've heard of Angelo Tsarouchas. Angelo Tsarouchas is Greek comedian that tours the world making people laugh. A couple years ago I had Angelo on this show, and I figured it's time to catch up again since a lot has changed since then. Since then I've gotten to know Angelo a bit more, whether its grabbing dinner, or attending some of his shows or running into him in Greece, whatever the case, even sitting with Angelo for dinner is like sitting at a comedy show, its always a barrel of laughs. - You also may have seen Angelo in one of his several comedy specials. To name a couple theres: It’s All Greek to Me and Bigger is Better. Angelo has a wide selection across most platforms such as Amazon Prime, Netflix and Youtube. What you may not have known is that Angelo is also an actor and has appeared in several films, including Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle. Robert Deniro’s The Score, and he’s also appeared in the award winning series, Mad Men. Being a part of the Greek Diaspora, Angelo has a true love for Greece and going back as much as possible. Tune in now and see what Angelo is up to! - GreeceChats Podcast is brought to your by The Greek Mortgage Guy, Savvas Fetfatsidis. Let Savvas help you get pre-approved for a mortgage today! Visit ⁠www.rate.com/savvas⁠ - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode I am joined by Nikos Psaltopoulos. Niko is the founder of Peoplekind and Bureaux Media. He’s also a super proud StartUp Grind Ambassador advocating and supporting entrepreneurs globally. His non-linear career journey has seen him go from journalism to a leadership role at Abbott, a multinational pharmaceutical company, before becoming a corporate rebel and joining the startup community. He was also Head of Sales & Innovation for Brand Collective in Australia + New Zealand and then assumed the Athens based role of COO at MarineTraffic - helping transform shipping tech. After six years and a successful exit, Niko is now COO at Shipeezi and working as an Advisor to a number of startups including Cyprus based The Mighty Kitchen. You can find him somewhere between US + Europe + Australia, speaking at conferences and events. You can learn more about Nikos at www.nikospsaltopoulos.com. - GreeceChats Podcast is brought to your by The Greek Mortgage Guy, Savvas Fetfatsidis. Let Savvas help you get pre-approved for a mortgage today! Visit www.rate.com/savvas - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode I am joined by Sally Jane Smith. Immigrant Australian Sally Jane Smith has lived on five continents and visited thirty-three countries, but she gives credit to Greece for turning her into a writer.  In 2006, a traumatic solo travel accident broke both her body and her spirit. A decade on, she journeyed to Greece in a quest to recover her wanderlust – and proved it is possible for an out-of-shape, middle-aged woman on a budget, equipped only with a guidebook and her mother’s 1978 travel diary, to experience a life-changing adventure. Unpacking for Greece – which  travels to Athens, Monemvasia, Sparta, Methana, Meteora, Santorini, and Rhodes – was selected as Greek News Agenda‘s ‘Reading Greece Book of the Month’ (July 2023). Sally’s second book, Repacking for Greece, will land on shelves mid-2024. GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Greece Chats Podcast with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tony Kariotis⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is made possible by our amazing sponsors: -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Origins App (@originsapp)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kastra Elion Premium Sipping Vodka (@kastraelion)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Klosti Handmade (@klosti_handmade)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TheGreekLawyer (@thegreeklawyer)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvas Fetfatsidis Mortgage Lender (@savvasmortgage)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Greece Media (@greece / @greecemedia)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Screen Printing by Airo (@airosports)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Efstathia Fragou Jewels (@efstathiafragoujewels)

In this episode I am joined by Vasili's Bourikas, also known as DJ Golden Feta! Vasilis Bourikas, more commonly known in the Music Scene as, DJ Golden Feta, is a Young Greek DJ, Entrepreneur, Youtube Content Creator, Public Figure, and Music-Artist, based in Toronto, Canada. 
   Although being 3rd Generation Greek, born abroad, his passion and connection to his Greek Heritage, Bloodline & Roots, heavily influence his music, both in his DJ Style, Original Songs, and involvement in the community. With Roots from Both the Southern Greek Regions of Lakonia (Sparti) & Messinia (Kalamata), DJ Golden Feta claims "Apidia, Lakonia" his Home Village, and is 100% Greek! You can learn more about Vasili by following him on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/billyvasilisbourikas You can follow his music channel on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu7YXLfqSHrMmgy9QlK82Yw - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece⁠⁠⁠⁠ - - Greece Chats Podcast with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tony Kariotis⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is made possible by our amazing sponsors: -⁠⁠⁠⁠Origins App (@originsapp)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Kastra Elion Premium Sipping Vodka (@kastraelion)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Klosti Handmade (@klosti_handmade)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠TheGreekLawyer (@thegreeklawyer)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Savvas Fetfatsidis Mortgage Lender (@savvasmortgage)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Greece Media (@greece / @greecemedia)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Screen Printing by Airo (@airosports)⁠⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠⁠Efstathia Fragou Jewels (@efstathiafragoujewels)

In this episode, I am joined by Drake G. Behrakis. Drake is President of Marwick Associates, a real estate investment and development company located in Lexington, Massachusetts. Marwick is the real estate arm of a family-owned, privately held investment company. He is also active in the Behrakis Foundation, the family’s philanthropic vehicle, and a co-founder of the strategic advisory firm 2TmX Advisors. Before establishing Marwick, Mr. Behrakis held various positions with Muro Pharmaceutical, Inc. and the Gillette Company. He has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Boston College and an MBA from Northeastern University.   His engagement as an investor, mentor, philanthropist, and volunteer has expanded throughout the years. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The National Hellenic Society. He is on the Board of Directors for The Hellenic Initiative, He is also an investor/shareholderin Comkardia, Christie Campus Health, and an Advisor to Genomes to People, Desmos Policy Institute, and the Delphi Economic Forum. In 2015 he was the recipient of the Boston College Distinguished Volunteer Award. Prior board commitments and involvements include Boston College, Leadership 100, Brigham & Woman’s Hospital, Order of St. Andrew, Orthodox Youth Ministry, Hellenic College, the American College of Greece, The Maliotis Cultural Center and the State of Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council. Mr. Behrakis resides with his wife, three children, and dog, Lola, in Wellesley, Massachusetts. - - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece⁠⁠⁠ - Greece Chats Podcast with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tony Kariotis⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is made possible by our amazing sponsors: -⁠⁠⁠Origins App (@originsapp)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Kastra Elion Premium Sipping Vodka (@kastraelion)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Klosti Handmade (@klosti_handmade)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠TheGreekLawyer (@thegreeklawyer)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Savvas Fetfatsidis Mortgage Lender (@savvasmortgage)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Greece Media (@greece / @greecemedia)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Screen Printing by Airo (@airosports)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Efstathia Fragou Jewels (@efstathiafragoujewels)

In this episode I am on a mission to learn about the benefits of wild olive oil from Greece. I was recently sent a bottle to try by Zoefull. While I wait to see if I start feeling the benefits, I wanted to discuss wild olive oil here with you! If you'd like to try a bottle for yourself, click here: Purchase Greek Wild Olive Oil - Greece Chats Podcast with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tony Kariotis⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is made possible by our amazing sponsors: -⁠⁠⁠Origins App (@originsapp)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Kastra Elion Premium Sipping Vodka (@kastraelion)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Klosti Handmade (@klosti_handmade)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠TheGreekLawyer (@thegreeklawyer)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Savvas Fetfatsidis Mortgage Lender (@savvasmortgage)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Greece Media (@greece / @greecemedia)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Screen Printing by Airo (@airosports)⁠⁠⁠ -⁠⁠⁠Efstathia Fragou Jewels (@efstathiafragoujewels)

In this episode I am joined by Patricia Asimacos. Patricia is the founder of HBBU, Hellenic Boston Businesses Unite. A new initiative to help Greeks from Boston connect on a business and personal level, doing so for a good cause. Here is a bit about Patricia in her own words: Growing up as a Greek-American was by far the most rewarding experience. At a young age, I realized that my parents were providing my sister and I with the best of both worlds.  Being raised in Belmont, Massachusetts and attending the Public School System, while simultaneously going to Greek School and Sunday School at the Taxiarchae Church in Watertown, Massachusetts was magical.  I must admit that I had always sensed a stronger connection with my Greek heritage.  I attribute this to the powerful bond my family had with Greece and our Orthodox Faith.  Although I was baptized at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Boston (where my father served as a board member), I was raised in the Taxiarchae Church under the loving guidance of the beloved Father Metaxas.  Father Metaxas was unequivocally one of the most prominent figures in my life.  I viewed this great man not only as my spiritual Father, but also as my adopted father, when my own suddenly passed during my sophomore year at Boston College. Father Metaxas supported my family and I during our darkest hours, and brought us solace through our Faith.  His empathy and love for my family was like no other. Upon my graduation from Boston College, the plan was to attend BC Law School.  However, I chose to work at a firm prior to attending law school, in order to confirm my career choice.  Law was of interest to me, however, it brought no joy to me.  It was during this time period that I discovered my true calling was to be an educator.   My love for children began at the Taxiarchae Church, under the guidance of Father Metaxas.  I served as a Sunday School teacher with a true love for educating young children.  It was a memorable time for my sister and I as we co-taught our Faith to little angels on Earth, and I am grateful for having had the opportunity.  Soon after my epiphany, I attended Boston University.  I was fortunate to graduate with honors, while obtaining a Master’s Degree in Education. Since then, I have been teaching English as a Second Language.  I have had the honor of working with children both in Greece as well as the United States, specifically Peabody High School.  To date, my bond with Orthodoxy and the Taxiarchae Church is priceless. I am truly blessed to have my son share this connection, as he serves God in the Altar of our church.  I realize that my faith in God and His ways have lightened every path for me thus far in life, and I will surely continue to have blind faith in God. - To learn more about HBBU, give them a follow on Instagram at hbbu.boston - GreeceChats Podcast is available on all podcast platforms, you can follow the podcasts instagram page at ⁠@greecechatspodcast⁠. You can also watch the video edition of this episode on YouTube at ⁠⁠youtube.com/@iamgreece⁠⁠ - Greece Chats Podcast with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tony Kariotis⁠⁠⁠⁠ is made possible by our amazing sponsors: -⁠⁠Origins App (@originsapp)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Kastra Elion Premium Sipping Vodka (@kastraelion)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Klosti Handmade (@klosti_handmade)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠TheGreekLawyer (@thegreeklawyer)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Savvas Fetfatsidis Mortgage Lender (@savvasmortgage)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Greece Media (@greece / @greecemedia)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Screen Printing by Airo (@airosports)⁠⁠ -⁠⁠Efstathia Fragou Jewels (@efstathiafragoujewels)