Baklava & Banter Podcast Show

Send us Fan Mail This week on Baklava and Banter, we sit down with actor Dikran Tulaine, who plays the compelling Captain Zeke Levy in Once A Week For Life — now streaming! The film is written and directed by George Zouvelos.Dikran brings a wealth of experience to the role — from his roots as a classically trained Shakespearean actor to a string of standout appearances on some of television's biggest shows, including The Blacklist, The Night Agent, The Walking Dead, and FBI.We dive into what drew him to Captain Zeke Levy, how his Shakespearean background shapes the way he approaches every character, and what it was like working on George Zouvelos's vision for Once A Week For Life.And in a fascinating turn, Dikran opens up about his genuine admiration for King Charles — a conversation you won't want to miss.Whether you're a fan of his work on screen or discovering him for the first time, this is a fascinating look at one of the most versatile actors working today.🎙️ Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment below — we'd love to hear your thoughts! 

Send us Fan Mail Step into the world of crime, consequence, and complex characters in this episode of Baklava and Banter, as we sit down with actress Diana Durango, who brings the character Eve to life in Once A Week For Life.But this conversation goes far beyond the role.We dive into Diana’s childhood, the early moments that shaped her path, and the inspirations that pushed her toward acting in the first place. From there, we explore her deep love of Sci Fi, the stories and worlds that continue to influence her creative lens, and how that passion unexpectedly connects to her work on screen.Of course, we break down her performance as Eve and what it’s like working within the gritty, character driven universe created by George Zouvelos. Diana opens up about building a morally complex character, navigating emotional depth, and the behind the scenes process that brought it all together.And in true Baklava and Banter fashion, there is plenty of humor along the way. From unexpected tangents to laugh out loud moments, this episode balances real insight with the kind of energy that makes for a great conversation.Whether you’re here for film, storytelling, Sci Fi, or just a fun and honest interview, this episode delivers.OWFL can be found on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Google Play, DirecTv, Dish Network and your cable TV PPVSubscribe for more conversations at the intersection of culture, storytelling, and a little bit of chaos.#OWFL #onceaweekforlife #GeorgeZouvelos #film #movie #PeterBarbounis #BaklavaandBanter #director #writer #actor #interview #astoria #nyc #mafia #greek #italian #irish #astoria 

Send us Fan Mail Maria Cominis joins Baklava & Banter for a conversation that quickly turns into something far beyond an interview.From the start, it’s clear this isn’t your typical sit-down. We asked questions… she answered… and somehow we ended up enrolling ourselves in her class.Maria Cominis — a first-generation Greek American actress, writer, director, and professor — has appeared in hit shows like Hacks, New Girl, and Desperate Housewives. But beyond the credits, this episode dives into her journey, her creative process, and the real stories behind building a career in entertainment while staying connected to culture and identity.Of course, it wouldn’t be Baklava & Banter without going off-script. We get into Greek culture, food, storytelling, and what it really means to “learn” (even if we’re definitely not doing the homework).If you enjoy conversations that feel like you’re sitting at the table with friends — with a mix of humor, insight, and just enough chaos — this one’s for you.Make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone who appreciates great stories and even better conversations. 

Send us Fan MailCrime. Chaos. Bad decisions. And somehow… still funny.On this episode of Baklava & Banter, we sit down with writer, filmmaker and actor George Zouvelos to talk about his new NYC crime thriller Once A Week For Life.The film follows NYPD Lieutenant Adam Galanis—a fugitive hunter with a talent for catching criminals and a habit of wrecking himself in the process. Battling PTSD, addiction, and corruption both on the streets and inside his own department, Galanis is forced into a brutal choice: do the right thing and lose everything… or cross the line and never come back.We get into the real story behind the film, the grind of independent filmmaking, and what it takes to build a raw, no-BS New York crime world that actually feels real.And because this is Baklava & Banter… we also go off-script—talking life, food, chaos, and probably things George didn’t expect to admit on camera.🎬 One Week For Life streams April 14, 2026🍿 If you like The Departed, Sopranos-style drama, or anything gritty and real—this one’s for you👉 Hit play, subscribe, and tell us: what would YOU do with one week left? 

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Baklava & Banter, we sit down with Harry Gaggos and Evan Tasiopoulos of the Hellenic Museum of Michigan for a conversation about preserving Greek history, honoring heritage, and making sure the stories that shaped the Greek-American experience continue to reach new generations.From the immigrant journey to cultural identity, Harry and Evan share the mission behind the museum, the importance of storytelling, and how the museum connects the past to the present. We also discuss the upcoming exhibit, #WeAreGreekWarriors, a powerful tribute celebrating the women of the Greek Revolution.#WeAreGreekWarriors honors the powerful, courageous, and independent changemakers who shaped history by championing democracy, freedom, and independence. These women were fighters, strategists, protectors of their communities, funders of freedom, and catalysts for change, proving that leadership takes many forms. While some of their names became legendary, many remain unknown to this day. Their stories continue to inspire women and girls everywhere to embrace their own potential, recognize greatness in themselves, and create meaningful change.What began as a social media campaign by One Bean Marketing is now evolving into a global movement, bringing these remarkable stories to new audiences across generations and around the world.The exhibit runs thru May 17, 2026In this episode, we explore:Greek-American history and cultural preservationThe mission of the Hellenic Museum of MichiganWhy storytelling matters across generationsHow younger Greek Americans are reconnecting with their rootsThe significance of #WeAreGreekWarriorsWhy heritage is meant to be lived, celebrated, and shared👉 For more information, visit: www.hellenicmi.orgThis is a conversation about legacy, identity, and the enduring power of history.🎙️ Baklava & Banter is where culture, conversation, and community come together with a Greek twist.Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations celebrating Greek culture, heritage, and the people working to keep those traditions alive.________________________________________________________________Baklava & Banter is hosted by Peter & Sotiri Barbounis

Send us Fan MailShelley Dark is back on Baklava and Banter! In this brand-new episode, we sit down once again with the acclaimed author to dive into the history, mystery, and inspiration behind her powerful new novel, Son of Hydra. From the turbulent world of Ghikas Voulgaris to the blend of Greek and Australian history woven through her storytelling, Shelley takes us behind the scenes of her creative process—what sparked the book, the research that shaped it, and the emotional threads that bring the story to life. If you enjoy captivating conversation, rich cultural history, and hearing an author unpack the heart of their work, this episode is a must-listen. Grab a coffee (or a piece of baklava) and jump back into the banter with us! Watch the full interview now and discover why Son of Hydra is already making waves. Son of Hydra and Hydra In Winter are both available on Amazon

Send us Fan MailJoin us for a powerful and inspiring episode of Baklava & Banter as we sit down in Midtown Manhattan with acclaimed Greek chef Nicholas Poulmentis—a culinary force known for honoring tradition while redefining modern Greek cuisine.In this exclusive conversation, Chef Poulmentis opens up about his culinary journey, the influence of Nikolaos Tselementes, the art of simplicity in cooking, and why treating every ingredient with love is the foundation of great food.And for the first time, Chef Poulmentis shares new details about his highly anticipated New York City restaurant, Kythira NP, opening February 2026 in SOHO. From inspiration to innovation, he gives a behind-the-scenes look at what diners can expect when the doors open.This interview is rich with culture, passion, history, and heart—everything Baklava & Banter is all about.For more information about Kythira NP or Chef Poulmentis Go to: https://www.kythiranp.com/______________________________________________________Recorded in NYC©2025 Sleeping Bear Productions

Send us Fan Mail We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with international bestselling author Kathryn Gauci to discuss her stunning new novel, An Aegean Odyssey. From the turquoise waters of the Aegean to the timeless stories that connect us across generations, this conversation dives deep into the inspiration, history, and heart behind her latest masterpiece. Tune in for a journey filled with storytelling, heritage, and of course… a little Baklava & Banter An Aegean Odyssey and all of Kathryn's books can be found on Amazon. 

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Baklava & Banter, we sit down with debut author Matt Wells to discuss his novel, A Corfu Love Affair.Hailing from Yorkshire, England, Matt is a retired professional who discovered his passion for writing later in life. With a lifelong interest in storytelling and cultural history, he brings a fresh and thoughtful voice to the literary scene. A Corfu Love Affair—his first novel—is a romantic and introspective journey set on the idyllic Greek island of Corfu. Through themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, Wells weaves a poignant narrative that speaks to the heart while evoking a deep sense of wanderlust.A Corfu Love Affair can be found using the links below:https://a.co/d/baTtrJ3https://buymeacoffee.com/acorfuloveaffair/e/413731

Send us Fan MailJoin us for an engaging conversation with Australian author Shelley Dark, as she discusses her fascinating debut memoir, Hydra in Winter. In this interview, Shelley shares the story behind her journey to the Greek island of Hydra, where she spent a quiet, contemplative winter in search of inspiration — and a pirate.Hydra in Winter is a beautifully written memoir that blends travel, history, and personal reflection. What begins as a quest to uncover the truth about one of her husband’s ancestors — rumored to be a Greek pirate — becomes a richly layered exploration of identity, storytelling, and the timeless magic of Hydra. Set during the island’s quiet off-season, Shelley’s journey unfolds through evocative prose, thoughtful observation, and unexpected encounters.Hydra in Winter can be found on Amazon

Send us Fan MailAustralian author Sally Jane Smith is one of ninewriters recognized in the Greek-Australian Cultural League of Melbourne’s 2024 Book Awards. Her debuttravel memoir, Unpacking for Greece, was awarded First Prize in the ‘Prose in English’ category.When asked how she felt on receiving the news, Smith said, “It was staggering. I wrote the Packing forGreece series for tourists, never expecting that the philoxenia I experienced as a traveler in Greece wouldresurface in this wonderful support from Greeks around the world. To see my name listed with those of somany accomplished Greek-Australian writers is an indescribable honor.”When Smith first set out for Greece with her mother’s 1978 travel diary in her pocket, she was searchingfor the wanderlust she’d lost in a devastating overseas road accident. As she ventured into the heart of theMediterranean – wandering volatile landscapes, exploring historical sites, pairing books with places andsavoring the tastes of Greece – she found it was possible for a clumsy, out-of-shape woman on a budget toexperience a life-changing journey. This is the story that became Unpacking for Greece, published in 2023and named a ‘Reading Greece Book of the Month’ by Greek government website Greek News Agenda.Smith said that connecting with Greek readers has become the most rewarding aspect of her writing.Highlights include online book clubs and literary get-togethers with the Hellenic American Women’s Councilin Chicago, the Hellenic Cultural Society of South Florida, and the Greek Elder Care Network in New YorkCity. Smith also headlined an ‘In Conversation with the Author’ event with Lonely Planet Greece author PaulHellander in Adelaide, Australia, hosted by Festival Hellenika.“When I visited Canada recently and stumbled across the Greek International Film Festival Tour inVancouver, I was deeply moved by the welcome I received. Then in October, the Hellenic ProfessionalWomen Inc. book club got together in a Manhattan bar to discuss Unpacking for Greece. I never forget whata privilege it is to be included in events like these, and I love it when groups ask me to Zoom in to theirgatherings. As a non-Greek who owes a great deal to Greece – the country that gave me my kefi back andturned me into a writer – I feel enormous gratitude.”Smith’s second book is also garnering attention in literary circles. Repacking for Greece, published this year,was shortlisted by Australia’s Society of Women Writers NSW for a non-fiction book award. Together, thetwo-book series travels to sixteen unforgettable destinations across the Greek mainland and islands:Athens, Delphi and Meteora on the Greek mainland; Monemvasia, Sparta, Nafplio, Mycenae, Epidavrosand Methana on the Peloponnese Peninsula; and the islands of Santorini, Rhodes, Hydra, Aegina, Poros,Kefalonia and Corfu.

Send us Fan MailWe sat down with Greek comedian Giorgos Xatzipavlou and talked about growing up in Greece, who influenced his career and his upcoming North American tour. This will be Giorgos' first time in the US. The North American Tour will have him in:Toronto (Comedy Bar) - November 19, 2024 Chicago (Laugh Factory) - November 20, 2024New York City ( Melrose Ballroom) - November 21, 2024Los Angeles (Dynamite Typewriter) - November 23, 2024

Send us Fan MailWe recently sat down with Constantina Konugres to discuss the NY Greek Film Expo which is coming to the NYC area on October 3-13, 2024. Constantina Konugres is a dynamic television and film producer whose work spans across Oscar, Emmy, Critics Choice, and Sundance-winning productions for HBO, Netflix, Apple TV, Disney+, Hulu, and more. Her work has brought her overseas as she’s produced content in London, New York, and Los Angeles. She holds degrees from USC's Annenberg School of Communication and School of Cinematic Arts and actively serves as a board member of the Hellenic Film Society and member of the Producers Guild of America.Tickets can be purchased at hellenicfilmusa.orgThe films in this year's line up cover many genres and will subtitled in English. This event is an opportunity to see great movies and to interact with actors, directors and producers.The Expo schedule is the following:VILLAGE EAST CINEMASecond Ave at 12th St., New York, NY 10003THUR OCT 3 7 pm Opening NightLITTLE THINGS THAT WENT WRONG**Screening followed by Q&A and opening nightreceptionFRI OCT 4 7 pm ANIMAL*SAT OCT 5 6 pm THE LAST TAXI DRIVER*SAT OCT 5 8:30 pm ATHENS MIDNIGHT RADIO*SUN OCT 6 1 pm GUEST STAR*SUN OCT 6 3:30 pm THE PROMOTION*SUN OCT 6 6 pm THE RHAPSODIST*GREEK CONSULATE69 East 79 St., New York, NY 10075MON OCT 7 6:30 pm A CONVERSATION WITH THANOS TOKAKIS (free event)BARRYMORE FILM CENTER153 Main St., Fort Lee, NJ 07024TUE OCT 8 7:30 pm THE PROMOTIONWED OCT 9 7:30 pm LITTLE THINGS THAT WENT WRONGMUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE35th Ave at 37th St., Astoria, NY 11106FRI OCT 11 7 pm LITTLE THINGS THAT WENT WRONGSAT OCT 12 6 pm FONISSA*SUN OCT 13 3 pm THE PROMOTIONSUN OCT 13 5:30 pm YANI SPANOS: BEHIND THE MARQUEE*

Send us Fan Mail Ellen Karis is the “Greek Goddess of Comedy” and has performed Stand-Up Comedy all over North America and has three comedy specials, her latest on Dry Bar Comedy. She is the host of a weekly podcast “Sweet and Salty with Ellen Karis” in its 10th season and is an actress having appeared on Amazon Prime’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and the Tina Fey’s movie “Sisters”.  Ellen is incredibly popular in the Greek-American community being one of the few Greek female stand-up comedians performing today. She has traveled all over the US and Canada with her Greek themed stand-up show performing for Hellenic Organizations and Churches. She nails the nuances of life as a Greek-American right on the head and in a way that is relatable to all ethnicities. She is also an Author, with her children’s book “Special People: Godparents in the Orthodox Christian Faith” and is currently working on a one woman show about her Cypriot Great-Grandmother called “Before I Close my Eyes”. A former CPA and Wall Street Analyst with an MBA in Finance, Ellen turned her back on yearly bonus’ and 401K’s for the dream of entertaining people. She only looks back on December 31st of each year when she tallies her Income Statement, other than that she has no regrets. 

Send us Fan MailPART 2Basile is a sought-after comedian who has performed for millions of fans in North America, Europe, Australia, Africa, and Canada. His unique blend of improvisation, characters, and material has made him one of the most diverse entertainers in the world. Basile has appeared on over 100 television shows around the world, including The Tonight Show on NBC, HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, and A & E.He has also done voice work for Universal Studios' Bullwinkle J. Moose, Cartoon Network, and many Japanese anime series. In 2023, Basile was nominated for an Emmy for his voice work as Jimmy "The Greek" Snyder in ESPN's 30 for 30 series segment, "The Legend of Jimmy the Greek". His general audience show, A Pinch Of Basile, has sold out audiences across North AmericaBasile has a new Netflix special to be released shortly.For tour dates please go to https://basilelive.com/**** We made a comment in the program while Basile was plugging in his computer that "Titan Foods" was sponsoring that time. "Titan Foods" of Astoria, NY is NOT a sponsor, however if they would like to be we would be honored. 

Send us Fan MailPART 1Basile is a sought-after comedian who has performed for millions of fans in North America, Europe, Australia, Africa, and Canada. His unique blend of improvisation, characters, and material has made him one of the most diverse entertainers in the world. Basile has appeared on over 100 television shows around the world, including The Tonight Show on NBC, HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, and A & E. He has also done voice work for Universal Studios' Bullwinkle J. Moose, Cartoon Network, and many Japanese anime series. In 2023, Basile was nominated for an Emmy for his voice work as Jimmy "The Greek" Snyder in ESPN's 30 for 30 series segment, "The Legend of Jimmy the Greek". His general audience show, A Pinch Of Basile, has sold out audiences across North AmericaBasile has a new Netflix special to be released shortly.For tour dates please go to https://basilelive.com/**** We made a comment in the program while Basile was plugging in his computer that "Titan Foods" was sponsoring that time. "Titan Foods" of Astoria, NY is NOT a sponsor, however if they would like to be we would be honored. 

Send us Fan MailWe are honored to have Award-winning, Bestselling Author Peter Barber who shares his love for his adopted homeland in his “Parthenon Series” of travel memoirs. His humorous and heartfelt stories are reader favorites.Marrying his fiery Greek wife Alexandra life changed his life in more ways than he imagined. Being part of a Greek family and living in Greece proved a huge transition for the native Londoner. Fascinated by Greece’s culture and warm people, he wished to truly experience Greek life.From his cultural and language flubs to the trials and tribulations of rebuilding their home in Glyfada, Barber sometimes got more than he bargained for. But with his signature wit, he found humor in their escapades. And as he learned more about Greece’s history, his new family, and modern life in Greece, he knew he had to share his experiences. This led to A Parthenon on Our Roof: Adventures of an Anglo-Greek Marriage (Ant Press, 2022), book one in the Parthenon Series. But then his wife fell in love with a piece of property on the island of Evia. He eagerly endeavored to make her lifelong dream of owning a home on a Greek island come true. But what ensued reads like a comedy. A Parthenon in Pefki: Further Adventures of an Anglo-Greek Marriage (Ant Press, 2023), book two in the Parthenon Series, reveals the trials and tribulations of making that dream come true. Book three is in the works.To learn more about Peter Barber, check out www.peterbarberwriter.comSpecial Thanks to Maria Fotinopoulos Karamitsos for reaching out and making this happen!

Send us Fan MailIn this weeks episode, we sit down with John "Giannis" Kim. John is a Korean American who has worked in various restaurants and loves Greek food. We drilled down on what his favorite Greek foods are and what Greek foods Korean's can probably do better. We also discuss the Greek origins of giving the finger .We would love to get listener feedback on John's interpretation of Greek food 

Send us Fan MailWe discuss how Greece's economy is changing for the better and the future site of the Hard Rock Casino in Athens. We discuss the tragic death of Major Kosteas of the Greek Air Force. The island of Chios and the Mastika Trees.

Send us Fan Mailin this episode we discuss a Traditional Greek Christmas and discuss what make up some of the worst Christmas gifts. We also would like to wish Giannis Antetukumpo a Happy Birthday. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we discuss Petraki's trip to Ghirardelli Chocolate in San Francisco followed by dinner at Mykonos Meze in Burlingame, CA. Our Top 5 list of Greek Drinks and what is like having a modified Greek Thanksgiving. 

Send us Fan MailIn this weeks episode we discuss the few days we spent in Texas and Oklahoma. Our mad dash to get back to the east coast in order to attend the "Lady of Ro" play in NYC.Places we visited:Buc-ees - Denton, TexasArbuckle Mountain Fried Pies - Davis, OklahomaRanch Steakhouse - Oklahoma City, OKSid's Diner - El Reno, OklahomaJoin Greeks Supporting Greeks Facebook Page and tell Shelly that we sent you.https://www.facebook.com/groups/1595339544023266

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode discuss Nikólaos Tselementés who was a Greek chef and cookbook author of the early 20th century. He is considered one of the most influential cookery writers of modern Greece, specializing in both Greek and French cuisine. Our top 10 list consists of Top 10 Greek Foods (non-desserts).Συζητάμε τον Νικόλαο Τσελεμεντές που ήταν Έλληνας σεφ και συγγραφέας βιβλίων μαγειρικής των αρχών του 20ου αιώνα. Θεωρείται ένας από τους πιο σημαντικούς συγγραφείς μαγειρικής της σύγχρονης Ελλάδας, με ειδίκευση τόσο στην ελληνική όσο και στη γαλλική κουζίνα.

Send us Fan MailIn this week's episode we review our audience feedback on whether or not Karens exist in Greece. Run down the Top 10 Greek Desserts as well as drilling down on the Greek invention of automatic doors.  

Send us Fan MailWe run down Top 10 Most Powerful Greek Gods. Discuss if Karens are in Greece or just a US phenomenon. We drill down on ancient greek inventions that are around today. This week its the Vending Machine, 

Send us Fan MailListen to our full breakdown of the third installment to the Big Fat Greek Wedding story. 

Send us Fan MailOur latest interview is with Shelly Papadopoulos. Shelly began her journey in Thessaloniki, Greece, and later immigrated to the U.S. with her family.Her professional realm saw her excel as a law firm administrator, but her heart has always been dedicated to community service and cultural promotion.Residing in the Los Angeles area, she began her volunteering endeavors in the mid-80s—holding esteemed positions at the Culver City PTA and Education FoundationShe went on to a pivotal role as the executive producer of award-winning documentaries for the Greek Heritage Society of Southern California, where she also served as President— and made significant contributions to the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival.Currently, she's channeling her energy towards promoting Ancient Greek Drama with Theatron of the Americas and advocating for the talents and leadership of Hellenic American women with the Hellenic American Women’s Council.We're thrilled to dive deep into her rich tapestry of experiences and accomplishments.

Send us Fan Mail21 years before the Miracle on the Hudson. Captain Sifis Migadis and Kostas Fikardos piloted an ill-fated 747-200 to safety saving all 418 souls on board. The crew were true heroes and need to be acknowledged. It is time this story gets the attention it deserves and made into a movie.

Send us Fan MailIn each episode, 'Baklava and Banter' peels back the layers of Greek culture, offering fascinating discussions about mouthwatering dishes like the iconic Baklava, exploring their rich history and customs, and painting a vivid picture of our youth. This isn't just a show; it's your passport to the intricate interplay between Greek and American identities. 

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