Made In Cyprus | Big biz stories from a tiny island

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Sergey Osipov - entrepreneur, designer, and co-founder of global ventures including Wargaming and Placy AI. Sergey shares his journey from Belarus to Cyprus, and how living on the island pushes entrepreneurs to think globally from day one.We dive into the intersection of branding, technology, and artificial intelligence, exploring how AI is reshaping industries, why creativity is more important than ever, and what it means to build products for both people and robots. Sergey also reflects on Cyprus as a hub for innovation, the balance between work and lifestyle, and why passion and adaptability are the keys to thriving in an era of constant change.It’s a wide-ranging conversation about business, creativity, and the future of technology straight from one of Cyprus’ most dynamic entrepreneurial voices.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Relationships, emotional health, and authenticity — these are topics that impact us all but often stay buried beneath surface-level conversations. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Stephanos Ioannou, psychologist and founder of the Limassol Psychological Well-being Center, and Helene Alexi Ioannides, systemic therapist and authenticity coach, to explore the power of inner work and the dynamics of building a relationship that truly grows with you.From generational trauma and toxic patterns to returning to Cyprus and raising a family with intention, Stephanos and Helene open up about their personal journey, their professional insights and the daily practice of staying emotionally connected and honest.Whether you’re in a relationship, navigating your own personal development, or curious about the mental health movement in Cyprus, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look into what it really takes to love and live authentically.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Biotech isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when people think of Cyprus, but Dr Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades is changing that. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Marianna: biotech founder, Forbes-listed innovator, and the woman behind three life sciences companies working to change the way cancer is treated.From losing close family members to cancer, to building therapies that reverse cancer cells, Marianna shares the story behind her mission and the immense resilience it takes to launch biotech startups on an island not yet built for it.We talk about science with empathy, raising millions from values-aligned investors, and why caring with heart is just as important as creating a cure. This is a powerful conversation on trauma, purpose, and the fight to bring meaningful innovation to life no matter the odds.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Everyone's talking about AI, but how much of it is hype and how much of it is actually changing the way we work?In this episode, Martin sits down with Ivan Sysoev, Chief AI Officer at Quadcode, to talk about what AI looks like in practice, not theory. They unpack the myths, the real risks, and the potential for business transformation.From AI-powered productivity to the risks of relying too much on machines to think for us, this episode brings a grounded, strategic lens to the global AI conversation. Plus: what Cyprus is getting right and what we need to catch up on.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the AI noise, this one’s for you.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Gaming is now the biggest entertainment industry in the world, bigger than film and music combined. And Cyprus has quietly become one of its most important hubs.In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Roman and Kirill Gurskiy, twin brothers and Managing Directors of GEM Capital, one of the most active gaming venture capital firms in the world. From working together at EY to funding major successes like Atomic Heart and Replaced, they share how they turned a lifelong passion for gaming into a global investment powerhouse.We talk about the rise of Cyprus as a gaming destination, what makes gaming investments different from traditional VC, and the trends shaping the future of the industry, from free-to-play to AAA titles and in-game economies.It’s a conversation full of insight, real talk, and plenty of laughs. Whether you’re a gamer, a founder, or an investor, this episode is packed with lessons on turning your passion into your profession.Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

Cypriots around the world are making waves in business, culture, and innovation, but how connected are they to their roots?In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we dive into the inspiring story of Paul Lambis — founder of the Cyprus Diaspora Forum as well as award-winning screenwriter, playwright, author, filmmaker, and creator of Culturescope. From the challenges of cultural preservation abroad to building meaningful connections between the diaspora and the island, Paul shares his personal journey from Johannesburg to Cyprus and the mission behind the Forum.We also explore the importance of maintaining cultural roots, the challenges of integrating into new societies, and how the Forum is shaping the future of Cyprus as a global hub for business and culture.Whether you're a business professional, a diaspora member, or simply curious about Cyprus’ untapped potential, this episode offers valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Tune in and join the conversation on shaping Cyprus’ future through unity and collaboration.Brought to you by Factory39 and Martin Zarian.

Menopause is a reality for half the population, yet it's a topic that remains largely misunderstood and under-discussed, especially in Cyprus. In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Kathy Kattashis, menopause coach and founder of MITRA, to explore the reality of menopause, the stigma surrounding it, and why it’s time to bring this conversation into the mainstream.From the lack of medical research to the impact on careers and relationships, Kathy shares her personal journey, the work she’s doing to push for awareness and policy change, and how businesses, families, and individuals can better support those going through it.It’s an eye-opening conversation for everyone that challenges outdated narratives and highlights why we all need to care about menopause.Brought to you by Factory39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus – Big Business Stories from a Tiny Island, host Martin sits down with Gala Grigoreva, the CMO at Adsterra, marketeer, mentor, and advocate for women in tech. Gala shares her journey from her early days in PR to becoming a leader in branding and marketing, revealing how she masterfully blends creativity, data, and authentic storytelling to build powerful brands.Gala explains that while brand represents the personality of a business, marketing is its voice - a synergy that is essential for standing out in today’s crowded digital landscape. She also dives into the nuances of personal branding for introverts, the challenges of balancing professional ambition with personal well-being, and how genuine communication can forge lasting emotional connections with customers.Tune in to discover Gala’s insights on leveraging authentic narratives, fostering empowerment in tech, and redefining success beyond conventional metrics.Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus – Big Business Stories from a Tiny Island, our host sits down with Artem Burtsev, CMO of bb:, to explore the evolving world of real estate branding in Cyprus. Artem shares his journey through rebranding challenges—from separating development from traditional agency models to launching creative tenders that reshaped market perceptions.Discover how emotional storytelling, strategic pricing, and a focus on customer experience can transform a commodity into an aspirational brand. With insights drawn from both local and international markets, Artem explains why differentiating through authentic, human-centric branding is key to building a better future in an increasingly competitive landscape.Brought to you by Factory 39.

How does a love for art and engineering shape the future of fashion? In this episode, Made in Cyprus host Martin Zarian chats with creative entrepreneur Evangelina Fysa, founder of Bungalow 28 - a boutique agency at the intersection of style, branding, and tech. Evangelina reveals her unconventional path from coding websites as a teenager to attending exclusive runway shows, and finally launching her own brand and consultancy. Discover why heritage fashion houses still thrive without heavy marketing, how Web3 principles like transparency and community can revolutionise brand-consumer relationships, and why technology should serve humanity - not the other way around. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend creativity, purpose, and cutting-edge tech, Evangelina’s story will inspire you to do it on your own terms - one stitch (or one line of code) at a time.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we chat with keynote speaker and leadership coach Michael Virardi. Michael recounts how a chance conference trip to North Carolina sparked his passion for public speaking, ultimately leading him away from a thriving family business. We explore the power of authenticity in personal branding, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and why staying true to your values is the ultimate competitive advantage. Michael also shares insights on harnessing AI as a personal assistant, embracing empathy as a game-changer in business, and remembering the human connection in an increasingly digital world. Tune in to discover how carving your own path - no matter where you start - can unlock unlimited possibilities. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we dive into the fast-evolving world of branding and marketing with Nadezhda Ivanova, Chief Communication Officer at Unlimit and co-leader of Tech Island. Nadia shares the story behind Unlimit’s bold rebranding journey, transitioning from CardPay to a global fintech powerhouse with a neon green identity and a mission to stay "ready for tomorrow." We explore the critical role of creativity and differentiation in today’s saturated markets, the challenges of scaling a global brand across diverse regions, and how to balance constant evolution with a core brand philosophy. Nadia also reveals her approach to navigating fear during a rebrand, managing complex operations, and why authentic storytelling is at the heart of successful brands. Tune in for a masterclass in branding and marketing for the fintech world, packed with insights on leadership, creativity, and adapting to rapid change. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, Andreas Spyrou, a third-generation leader at ASG Group and a key figure behind the Limassol and Larnaca Marathons, shares his journey navigating the complexities of a family business while driving innovation in Cyprus' evolving landscape. We explore how Andreas and his team transformed challenges into opportunities during the pandemic, diversifying their business into new ventures, while continuing to grow Cyprus’ largest sporting event. Andreas also opens up about balancing tradition with modernisation, the dynamics of family business, and the opportunities and challenges posed by Cyprus’ rapid development. Tune in to hear Andreas’ thoughts on the future of Cyprus, the importance of embracing change, and how strategic decisions can turn crises into growth. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we explore the fast-moving world of flexible living with Demetris Papadopoulos, the CEO and co-founder of Moving Doors. From traditional renting to the dynamic landscape of flexible accommodation, Demetris sheds light on how Moving Doors is revolutionising the real estate market in Cyprus and beyond. Demetris shares his journey from humble beginnings in real estate to founding Moving Doors, a company that bridges the gap between landlords and tenants through fully serviced, flexible-term rentals. We discuss the benefits and challenges of this model, the importance of technology, and the strategic decision to expand into markets like Dubai. Tune in to learn about the rebranding journey from Staycaee to Moving Doors, the unique business insights that set them apart, and their ambitious plans for future growth. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for property owners, real estate enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of flexible living. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus," we delve into the almost impossible brand and business story of Hasan Siber, founder of Colive, a pioneering olive oil brand that transcends the island’s historical divide between North and South. Hasan, a Cypriot entrepreneur born in Istanbul, was inspired by the unique quality of family-produced olive oil and driven by a vision to foster peace and collaboration in Cyprus. Colive operates across the hard borders of the island, collaborating with family farmers from both communities; Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots , making it the first business in over 50 years to bridge this geopolitical divide. The challenges of setting up such a venture are immense, involving negotiations with multiple administrations, navigating complex bureaucracy, and building trust among communities historically at odds.Hasan’s commitment to Colive is not just about producing exceptional olive oil but about crafting a narrative of unity and cooperation. By labelling the product simply as Cypriot, Colive embodies a vision that surpasses entrenched nationalistic divides. This effort not only supports local agriculture but also serves as a model for economic cooperation as a means of peace-building.The creation of Colive stands as a testament to the potential of entrepreneurship to bridge deep-rooted conflicts by promoting a shared goal and mutual benefits. Hasan’s journey with Colive illustrates the profound impact that visionary entrepreneurs can have, turning everyday commodities into instruments of peace and reconciliation. Join us to explore how Colive is not merely selling olive oil but is nurturing seeds of peace across Cyprus, proving that business can indeed be a powerful catalyst for change. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of "Made in Cyprus: Big Biz Stories from a Small Island," we delve into the innovative world of Cypriot real estate with Pavlos Loizou, the founder of Ask Wire. Coming from a traditional background in real estate, Pavlos has transitioned into tech entrepreneurship to reshape the industry with data-driven solutions. Quite a challenge for one of the most conservative industries of Cyprus... Listen in as Pavlos discusses how Ask Wire leverages data analytics to simplify the real estate market, offering unprecedented clarity and insight. This episode explores how technology can transform traditional industries, using Pavlos' venture as a prime example. It's a discussion on innovation, challenges, and the future of real estate, highlighting how Ask Wire is positioning Cyprus as a hub for tech-savvy real estate solutions. Pavlos shares his insights on the Cypriot market dynamics, the evolution of real estate demands, and the strategic approach needed for success. Ask Wire is not just a startup; it's a testament to how data can empower decisions, fostering a more transparent and efficient market. This episode is essential for tech enthusiasts, real estate professionals, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of tradition and innovation. "Made in Cyprus" gives you a closer look at how Pavlos Loizou is steering the future of real estate, promoting a culture of innovation that transcends the small island's borders. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, Martin sits down with Stavriana Nathanail, marketing strategist, CMO, and host of Clicks & Cocktails, to talk about the evolution of Cyprus’ marketing scene. They dive into the power of localisation, why community matters more than competition, and how brands on the island can embrace collaboration to grow. Stavriana also shares her journey from startup dreamer to marketing leader, and why passion, hustle, and people-first thinking are at the heart of every great campaign.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we explore the powerful concept behind Fckup Nights Limassol with Maria and Alla, the dynamic duo bringing this global movement to Cyprus. Fckup Nights offers a safe space for business leaders to openly share their failures, creating an environment that encourages vulnerability, trust, and growth. Maria and Alla share their personal journeys with failure and why embracing imperfections is essential in both personal and professional life. We discuss how early expectations and cultural backgrounds shape our perception of success—and the relief in breaking free from perfectionism. Tune in to hear how F*ckup Nights Limassol is connecting the community and changing the conversation around failure. Brought to you by Factory 39 and Martin Zarian.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we sit down with Efi Philippou, a fractional CFO and financial strategist, to uncover the power of aligning purpose with financial strategy. Efi shares her journey from auditing, to helping businesses avoid financial pitfalls, emphasising the importance of sustainable growth and operational alignment. Learn how fractional CFOs can help businesses navigate challenges, optimise cash flow, and translate numbers into impactful stories. Whether you’re a startup founder, a hospitality leader, or simply curious about purpose-driven financial leadership, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for building resilient businesses. Brought to you by Factory 39.

In this episode of Made in Cyprus, we’re joined by Violeta Skittidi, co-founder of Formulaw, a pioneering startup that’s streamlining legal processes for SMEs through innovative AI-powered contract management. Violeta shares how Formulaw evolved from a university project in London into a full-fledged legal tech startup with a mission to make legal services more accessible and affordable for small businesses. We dive into the current challenges facing Cyprus' legal system, such as the slow court processes and limited digital innovation. Violeta explains how Formulaw is tackling these issues by developing AI technology that generates, reviews, and automates contracts securely—without relying on generic templates. She also shares insights on the startup’s vision to democratise the legal field, enabling faster, safer business agreements that don’t sacrifice quality or compliance. Tune in to learn how Formulaw is setting out to transform the Cypriot legal landscape and support the growth of SMEs with smarter, more efficient contract solutions. Brought to you by Factory 39.