Ouzo Talk
The Ouzo Talk Podcast
A podcast for Greeks of the diaspora. Join Sydney-based Greek-Australians Tom and Nick as they bring the Ouzo-fuelled conversations of ‘kaffeneia’ the Greek world over, right to your ears. From music, history and culture, to science, philosophy and everything in between, Ouzo Talk is all about 'parea'. And with a bottle of Ouzo always on the table, there's no telling where the conversation might go. It's solving the world’s problems – one bottle of Ouzo at a time.
Helen Stamatakos – Pilates – the secret weapon of professional athletes
Greek-Australian Pilates expert, Helen Stamatakos, is the Pilates instructor to some of Australia’s most successful athletes. From the NRL, to the A League, Golf, Basketball and everything in between, Helen has made a name for herself by helping athletes and clubs achieve their best by using what she describes as a ‘secret weapon’ in the form of Pilates. Her Tik-Tok fame, spurred on by the meme ‘Thanks Helen’ has seen her reach new heights when it comes to Pilates awareness and its benefits. Joi
Byzantine Chant – the classical music of Greece, with Dimitris Koubaroulis
Ouzo Talk returns for season four with a deep-dive into the world of Byzantine Chant. With the help of Byzantine Chant expert Dimitris Koubaroulis, Tom and NIck have all their questions answered about this unique form of music, which while most closely associated with the music and sounds of the Church, is an art-form all its own that has not only influenced modern music, but has also helped to record and preserve the music of other cultures. There's more to Byzantine Chanting than what you grew
Tsipouro – Season 3 Finale
Season three of Ouzo Talk comes to an end in a flurry of Tsipouro and meat, as the boys welcome back Stavros and Foti in pursuit of the world's best Tsipouro. Raki or Tsikoudia. With 20 bottles to choose from, plus piles of 'kontosouvli' to keep their stomach's lined, this is the season finale to end them all! Which Tsipouro will triumph? Tune into find out!A huge thanks to all of our listeners for your support during season 3 of Ouzo Talk, and we look forward to bringing you season 4 from early
Euro 2004 with Zagorakis, Charisteas and Karagounis
Ouzo Talk celebrates 20 years since Greece's iconic Euro 2004 win with three legends of that squad in; Captain and Player of the Tournament, Theodoros Zagorakis, winning goal-scorer Angelos Charisteas, and the incomparable Giorgos Karagounis. Against every imaginable odd, the Greek Football team defied the odds, the pundits, the haters, and no less than four of the best teams in World Football, to take out the inspiring victory. In the process, they humbled the best the world had to offer includ
Mark Bouris – Trump, Interest Rates, Greek heritage and Project 100
Renowned Greek-Australian Podcaster, businessman, and TV personality Mark Bouris returns to Ouzo Talk to try share a tsipouro or two with the boys. From the Jake Paul, Mike Tyson fight, to the affects of Donald Trump's re-election and interest rates plus whole lot more, Mark provides his insights in another insightful discussion with Tom and Nick. This episode of the podcast is brought to you by:St Nicholas Senior Care Centre: https://acare.au/The Greek Providore: https://thegreekprovidore.com.a
Stephen Fry – A Philhellene’s guide to the Gods, Myths, Marbles, Heroes, and The Odyssey
Arguably the world's most renowned Philhellene, Stephen Fry, joins the Ouzo Talk family for a very special episode! The English actor, screenwriter, author, playwright, journalist, poet, comedian, television presenter and film director – among a host of other things – is never short of something to say, and when he speaks... we listen. From being a high profile advocate for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, to his incredible Greek mythological retellings in books including ‘Mythos’, ‘Heroes’,
Oxi Day – the birth certificate of the Greek Diaspora
Join us for a very special episode as we commemorate Oxi Day – the historic moment on October 28, 1940, when Greece famously defied Mussolini's ultimatum, shouting a resounding “No!” to fascist occupation. This act of defiance marked Greece’s entry into WWII, leaving a profound mark on world history, as Greece’s resistance slowed Axis powers and inspired global hope. Special, expert guest Greek Consul General, Yiannis Mallikourtis, brings a behind the scenes look into the history of the moment,
Zeibekiko Dance
World-renowned dancer, choreographer and Zeibekiko expert, Christos Shakallis, joins the boys in the studio together with dance teacher and Zeibekiko Festival organiser, Sophia Ventouris, to talk all things Zeibekiko! This unique dance is often the highlight of any major Greek event, and in many ways borders on the spiritual for the dancer. Christos and Sophia share their decades worth of experience and passion as they explain the meaning, background and influence of this powerful dance that tur
Ambassador Venizelos
Greek Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Stavros Venizelos drops by The Distillery to talk to Tom and Nick about all things Greek-Australian relations. From our cultural and historical commonalities, to tourism and trade opportunities, representing Greece to the world and everything in between, this is a fascinating insight into the life of Greece’s top-ranking diplomat in Australia.This episode is proudly brought to you by Edgility, and The Greek Providore.Send us a text Support the showEm
Greek Music, with DJ Krazy Kon
With 30 years of Greek music industry experience under his belt, Greek-Australian DJ, promoter and artist, DJ Krazy Kon is the authority on Greek music for all those in the diaspora. Kon drops by Ouzo Talk for the second time to give an update on the vibrant Greek music scene, upcoming artists that he'll be bringing to Australia, his three decades in the industry and the upcoming release of his Greece Mix #29! This is your guide to all things Greek popular music! This episode is brought to you b
Rewind – Angelo Tsarouchas
We revisit what has in many ways become an iconic Ouzo Talk chat with comedian, actor and writer, Angelo Tsarouchas! Ever wondered what it’d be like to have a stand-up comedian give you a private performance at home? This episode is your answer! Angelo joined Tom and Nick in Sydney during season one of Ouzo Talk as part of his Australian tour – and he had the boys in stitches from the get-go. Covering everything from growing up Greek in Canada and his time as a travel agent, to becoming a comedi
Alexander The Great, with Professor Paul Cartledge
With the help of one of the world's foremost experts on ancient Greece, Ouzo Talk finally tackles Alexander The Great! Professor Paul Cartledge – A.G. Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge rejoins Tom and Nick in the Ouzo Talk studio to talk about the incredible life and legacy of Alexander the Great – one of history’s most influential figures. From the modern-day dispute on his origins, to his campaigns, his lovers, and the disappearance of his body, Professo
The Olympics
The Olympics are arguably one of Greece's greatest contributions to the world, but in this day and age, is it viable for them to continue to be shared around with other host countries? Should the Games go back to Greece permanently? Tom and Nick are joined by returning guests Billy Cotsis and Panayiotis Diamadis to talk all things Olympics, from this year's opening ceremony in Paris, to the case for bringing the games home!This episode is brought to you by,KST Buseshttps://www.kstbuses.com.au/Th
Whose is this song?
Is it Greek? Is it Turkish? Is it Romanian? Bulgarian? Debate runs high as the boys welcome academics and writers, Eleni Eleftherias Kostakidis and Dr. Alfred L Vincent to the Distillery to discuss their latest book; Whose is This Song? Many Balkan countries and nationalities claim the song – which in Greek is known as 'Apo Kseno Topo' – but its origin may go back much further than first thought. With nationalism, uncertainty, conflicts and much more clouding the history of the tune, this dynami
Kalymnos
Ouzo Talk continues its' Greek Island series by taking a quick trip over to the island of Kalymnos. With the help of Michael Melas and George Karantonis from the Kalymnian Association of NSW, the boys take a journey through Kalymnian history, sponge-diving, some genuinely bizarre foods plus a whole lot more! Looking for your next destination in Greece? Kalymnos just might be the ticket!This episode of Ouzo Talk is proudly brought to you by The Kalymnian Association of NSW and The Greek Pro
Rebetika – The Bouzouki & the blues of Greece with Manolis Michalakis
Famed Bouzouki player Manolis Michalakis drops by Ouzo Talk to talk all things Rebetika and the instrument that has come to characterise the genre. Often referred to as 'the blues of Greece', Rebetika is an important part of Greece's musical and cultural heritage, in a marriage of instruments and styles that draw inspiration from ancient Greece, right through to Smyrna in the early 20th century. With the help of our resident Bouzouki expert, George Calopedos, the boys share a few
Cyprus: 50 years since the invasion – with High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis
It’s been 50 years since the invasion of Cyprus, so the boys enlist the help of Cypriot High Commissioner Antonis Sammoutis and Deputy High Commissioner Stavros Nikolaou to talk all things Cyprus. From the circumstances that led to the conflict, to the real-world impact on people and families, this is a comprehensive look at the Cyprus issue as told through the eye of people who see the generational trauma first hand.This episode is brought to you by the great people at KST Buseshttps://www.kstb
LIVE from The Greek Festival of Sydney, Brighton
Ouzo Talk goes live from the Greek Festival of Sydney in Brighton. Over two decades have passed since Brighton Le Sands played host to this iconic event, and with it being right in the boys' backyard it made sense that Ouzo Talk was on hand to talk to people on the ground! Join the boys as they talk to event organisers, Ouzo Talk fans, family and more in what is surely one of the closest things to a Greek 'Panigiri' that you can get.This episode of Ouzo Talk is proudly brought to
Ouzo
After three seasons, the boys finally bite the bullet and dedicate a full episode to Ouzo! With the help of some returning special guests, the boys try an eye-watering 14 different bottles of ouzo in search of their personal favourite drop! The conversation and banter improves with every bottle! Note: The views expressed in this episode are those of each individual and does not reflect the views of the Ouzo Talk Podcast.Send us a text Support the showEmail us at ouzotalk@outlook.comSubscribe to
Rewind – A Greek Easter
Let's rewind the clock! Join Nick and Tom as they walk you through what it takes to have a very Greek Easter. No single annual event on any Greek family’s calendar comes close to the size and spectacle of this annual religious event. From the special traditions like fasting, baking tsourekia, painting red eggs, and going to church, to the more bizarre traditions of throwing large pottery over the balcony and firing homemade rockets at a neighbouring village’s church – there’s so much to cov
True Crime – Arthur Katsogiannis
Former senior NSW Police Officer Arthur Katsogiannis joins Ouzo Talk to discuss all things true crime. Having begun and led strike forces, high profile investigations as well as being A public face for the NSW Police in front of the Australian media, the now retired Arthur isn't short of a story. From bikies and cyber-crime, to drugs, murder and everything in between, this is a mandatory listening if you're into your true crime stories. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode may contain graphic
The Bible, Greece and Christianity
How did Christianity make it to Greece? Were there Greeks in The Bible? Did Jesus speak Greek? Why did the Catholics and Orthodox split? These are all important questions answered by Academic and devout Christian, Dr Vassilis Adrahtas as he stops by the Ouzo Talk podcast. In a wide-ranging discussion, Tom and Nick have all their burning religious questions answered – many of which you'll know doubt share yourself! No matter what your religious affiliation or status, this is mandatory listen
Admiral Stavridis – Cyprus, Putin & WW3
Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, US Admiral James Stavridis returns to Ouzo Talk with his new book, 2054 in tow. The Admiral discusses his latest effort, as well as answering questions about the future of the Cyprus issue, the US sale of F16s to Turkey and F35s to Greece, Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin, the war between Ukraine and Russia, as well as Israel, Palestine and the threat of World War 3.2054 is available for purchase here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/6
Silia Kapsis – Eurovision 2024
2024 Eurovision contestant and rising star, Silia Kapsis, joins Tom and Nick to talk about representing Cyprus at this year's competition in Sweden! At just 17 years of age, Australian-born Kapsis enters the world-renowned song-contest with the support of three nations behind her in the form of Cyprus, Greece and Australia. Silia talks about her song, Liar, gives an insight into how she juggles performance with her schooling, and her pride for her triple-threat heritage. From impersonating
Epirus – Mullets, Pites & Klarina
From fierce warriors and freedom fighters sporting mullets, to the amazing flavours of the region, Ouzo Talk journeys to the rugged and historic region of Epirus with the help of special guest host, historian, Panayiotis Diamadis. Join the boys as they delve into the mystical landscapes, ancient traditions, savoury delights, musical notes and more that define Epirus. Make no mistake, the dramatic mountains match the dramatic stories about Souliotes, the Dance of Zalongo and so much more, so get
Are You Even Greek?
Tom and Nick sit down with Kristina, the creative mind behind the hugely popular Instagram page; Are You Even Greek? By blending humour with tradition and nuance, the page has become a hub for celebrating Greek identity with viral memes, short history lessons, videos and more that people share with their friends, families and partners every day. Join in as the guys discuss Greek genealogy, history, social media and the growing success of the page that has fast-become a mainstay of the Greek com
Nick Giannopoulos
The Wog Boy himself, Nick Giannopoulos, joins Tom and Nick to help kick off season 3 of Ouzo Talk! From the iconic comedies like Wogs Out of Work and Acropolis Now, to the phenomenon of the Wog Boy films, Nick's work holds an important place in the psyche of the Greek diaspora experience in Australia, but also globally. Nick takes us on a real journey and speaks at length about everything from dealing with racism in his early years, filming in his beloved Mykonos, but also about his new sta
Season 2 Finale: Artist Caroline Rovithi
Greek conceptual artists, Caroline Rovithi, joins Tom and Nick for our season two finale, and 50th episode of the podcast! Famed for creating colour-splashed, graphic pop art-inspired pieces with Greece as her main source of inspiration, Caroline inspires the boys with her story and her way incredibly optimistic way of looking at the world – and that’s before we even get to her art! Using traditional Greek symbols in her work, including images such as the Tsarouchia worn by the Presidential Guar
Ambassador to Greece Alison Duncan
New Australian Ambassador to Greece, Her Excellency Alison Duncan, joins Ouzo Talk to discuss her new role in Athens. Alison talks all things Greek and Australia, including the most common things the Australian Embassy in Athens helps citizens with. From lost passports and the importance of travel insurance, to the diplomatic relationship between Greece and Australia, trade and travel, this is mandatory listening if you're interested in international relations. But it’s also a unique insigh
Professor Paul Cartledge – Ancient Greece
Legendary Historian, Professor Paul Cartledge, joins Ouzo Talk for a personal lecture on the Ancient Greeks. When it comes to experts, few come close to the A.G. Leventis Senior Research Fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, and A.G. Leventis Professor of Greek Culture in the Faculty of Classics. Add in countless documentaries, books, lectures and more to his name, and there’s no doubt that there’s much you can learn from this now honorary Spartan Citizen. One thing’s certain when it comes to Paul
Basile Katsikis
Legendary Greek-American actor, writer and standup comedian, Basile, couldn't resist the chance to have a drink with Tom and Nick in The Distillery – despite having only just gotten off a plane! Back on Australian shores for his 'Blame it on the Greek' World Tour, Basile is ready and raring to go as he brings his unique brand of standup not just to Greek-Australians, but everyone! With a quickly-dwindling bottle of Mastiha in tow, Basile talks everything from his Greek heritage a
AEK & Greece Goalkeeper Spiros Economopoulos
It’s ‘Mr Protathlima’ himself!! Legendary former AEK and Greece goalkeeper, Spiros Economopoulos, joins the boys in The Distillery to talk football! From playing cricket in Sydney as a child, to moving to Greece where he would discover his aptitude for playing in-goal, Spiro would experience a meteoric rise from playing for his local team in Akrata on gravel, to taking the field at Nea Filadelfia for AEK. He would go on to become an integral part of AEK’s 1989 Championship winning side, while al
Tony Nikolakopoulos – Actor, Writer, Director
Actor, writer, director and producer Tony Nikolakopoulos joins Tom and Nick in The Distillery to talk about his amazing body of work, including his upcoming show with George Kapiniaris, 'Life of Byron'. From Blue Heelers and Seachange, to Wannabes and The Wog Boy, Tony has been a mainstay of Australia's big and small screens for decades. Now, the proud Greek-Australian is ready to share Life of Byron with audiences – a story about a middle-aged man struggling with his mother'
Olympic Airways
Ouzo Talk salutes Greece’s iconic national airline; Olympic Airways. From secret FBI investigations into owner, Aristotle Onassis, to conspiracy theories around the death of his son Alexandros Onassis in a plane crash, this is the story of a Greek icon like you've never heard it before. With author of the book Olympic Airways – A History , Graham M Simons. joining Tom and Nick, the boys fly through inspiring, and often turbulent skies. From the airline’s humble beginnings, to glamorous Pier
Ouzo Talk does Greek Summer
The boys are back! After speaking about going to Greece together for years, Tom and Nick finally met up in Greece for the very first time, and true to form, there are plenty of stories to share. From Athens to Igoumenitsa, and Corfu to Ithaca and everywhere in between, the boys return to The Distillery to recall the best moments from their Greek Summer Odyssey. With boat rides and festivals, gyros and dances plus a dash of nostalgia to boot. If you didn't get a chance to experience a Greek
The Greek Genocide – from the Minoans to the Pontians, with Panayiotis Diamadis
What do the Minoans, Hagia Sophia, the Pontians, ‘Baboula’, the Ottomans and the croissant all have in common? Not much on face value, but they all unwittingly play a role in a millennia-long journey that leads directly to the event we know as the Greek Genocide. Dr Panayiotis Diamadis has been the Vice-President of the Australian Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and holds a Research Doctorate in Genocide Studies, where his thesis was titled "Hellenism under the Crescent: a cas
The Greek diaspora through the lens of Effy Alexakis and Leonard Janiszewski
Photographer, Effy Alexakis, and historian, Leonard Janiszewski, have in many ways become the dynamic duo of documenting the experience of the Greek diaspora both in Australia and abroad. With Effy's camera capturing moments and Leonard providing the historical context, the pair have managed to create a body of work worthy of being recognised as culturally significant. Their work includes exhibitions, books, public talks and more. The pair sit down with Tom and Nick to discuss everything fr
Cypriot Smurf
Peter Kypri – aka Cypriot Smurf – joins Tom and Nick in The Distillery during his recent Australian standup tour! Since 2015, chances are that one of Peter's viral videos using his alter ego; Souvlakis, have popped up in your social media feed, as he celebrates and takes the piss out of his unique Cypriot character. With bottles of a Cypriot Whiskey in tow, the laughs come thick and fast as Peter tells the story of his journey to Australia, how Souvlakis was born and everything in between.T
Larry Papadopoulos & Peter Manesis – exercise, training & coaching
Former fighters Larry Papadopoulos and Peter Manesis have come a long way since their respective times in the professional wrestling and boxing rings. Since retiring from their sports, the proud Greek-Australians have used their skills and knowledge to shape both the next generation of kids, as well as aspiring and professional athletes and sporting teams including in Rugby League, Rugby Unions, Aussie Rules and more. With their Greek heritage helping to inspire them along the way, both Larry an
The Greek Holocaust with Dr Leon Saltiel
The city of Thessaloniki may be known as one of Greece's most scenic, waterfront cities, but go back to WWII, and it played stage to the deportation of thousands of local Greek Jews to places like Auschwitz, where the majority would ultimately lose their lives. Author, historian, Director of Diplomacy, Representative at UN Geneva and UNESCO, and Coordinator on Countering Antisemitism for the World Jewish Congress. Dr Leon Saltiel joins Ouzo Talk to tell the all-important story in a revealin
George 'Ferocious' Kambosos
World Champion boxer, George ‘Ferocious’ Kambosos drops by The Distillery to talk to Tom and Nick as he prepares to mount a fresh assault on the boxing world to reclaim the lightweight World Championship. By his own admission, Kambosos has been quiet since losing his five belts to Devin Haney. But don’t let the silence fool you. The proud Greek-Australian boxer has been lurking in the shadows, plotting and preparing for a return – and if his training videos on social media are anything to go by…
The Gyros Queen
What makes the perfect gyro? Do you have mustard, mayo, or ‘saltsa’ on yours, or is that all sacrilege? One thing’s for sure, everyone’s an expert when it comes to Greece’s most recognisable street food… but not like Kelly Roditis – AKA The Gyros Queen. What started as a simple joke by the Greek-born Roditis on Instagram after literally overdosing on gyro in Athens, has transformed into real advocacy for Greek cuisine. Kelly stops by Ouzo Talk bearing gifts for Tom and Nick, as they cover all t
The Chosen's George Xanthis
He may keep on-screen company with some of the holiest figures in Christianity, but Greek-Australian actor, George Xanthis from 'The Chosen', joins the ranks of the laity in the latest episode of Ouzo Talk. Playing the Apostle John on the acclaimed series (season one now available on Netflix), Xanthis career is reaching new heights as the show looks toward gaining 1 billion streams. In a wide-ranging discussion, Tom, Nick and George talk about his early life, acting, auditioning, and w
Peter Economides – Rebranding Greece
Legendary brand strategist, Peter Economides, stops by Ouzo Talk to talk all things brand with Tom and Nick! From his beginnings growing up in a Greek family in South Africa, to scaling the heights of brand, marketing and advertising, Peter is one of Greece’s – and the diaspora’s – great minds. Famed for (among other things), working on Apple’s Think Different campaign, where he worked directly with Steve Jobs, Peter has gone on to do amazing things for brands including; Audi, Campari, Coca-Cola
George Paxinos – the Greek who mapped the human brain
He has identified and named more areas of the brain than anyone in history. His book; ‘The Rat Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates’ is the most cited in neuroscience, and the third most cited science book of all time. Now, famed Neuroscientist and Greek, George Paxinos, joins Tom and Nick in the Distillery for a discussion that doesn’t quite go the way you might expect. While science and the brain may dominate proceedings, the Order of Australia recipient and author also covers the future of contac
NATO Supreme Allied Commander – Admiral James Stavridis USA
Former NATO chief, Admiral James Stavridis, joins Tom and Nick for an important discussion about the current state of the world, including tensions between Greece and Turkey (Turkyie), Russia and Ukraine, as well as the USA and China,. Having led the NATO Alliance with responsibility for Afghanistan, Libya, the Balkans, Syria, counter piracy, and cyber security, capping off a 37 year military career in the US Navy, Stavridis is far more than just an expert. He was vetted for Vice President by Hi
Defying the British Museum to scan the Parthenon Marbles
They asked for permission. Permission was denied... but they did it anyway. That’s the predicament that Founder and Executive Director of the Institute for Digital Archaeology, Roger Michel, and Director of Technology, Alexy Karenowska found themselves in during 2022. Believing strongly that the British Museum didn’t have the right to deny their request to scan the Parthenon Marbles, both Roger and Alexy hatched a plan to scan the Marbles anyway, using only smartphones and iPads, and in full vie
DJ Krazy Kon – promoting Greek music internationally
If you love Greek music, there's no better guide than DJ Krazy Kon! An internationally acclaimed DJ, Producer & Event Promoter, DJ Krazy Kon joins Tom and Nick in The Distillery to talk Greek music, his career promoting it internationally and what's next to be conquered. Krazy Kon's work has undoubtedly helped introduce hundreds of thousands – if not millions – of Greeks in the diaspora to all the latest music coming out of Greece every year, thanks to his now iconic GREECE M
Greek Citizenship, military service, passports & property, with Consul General Yiannis Mallikourtis
New Greek Consul General Yiannis Mallikourtis joins Tom and Nick to kick-off season two of Ouzo Talk! Whether you're looking to get your Greek Citizenship, a passport, sort out your property in Greece, or learn the real requirements for Greek Military Service, this is a must-listen! The new Consul General also speaks passionately about the importance of maintaining the Greek language in the diaspora.Send us a textSupport the showEmail us at ouzotalk@outlook.comSubscribe to our Youtube: http
Season Finale - LIVE from Rose Bay
It's the end of season one, and to celebrate, for the very first time Tom and Nick are in front of a live audience at Sydney's St George Church Rose Bay, for a very special barbecue! Join the boys as they re-cap the first season of Ouzo Talk, including their individual highlights, favourite interviews and much, much more. There's plenty of meat to try too, with the boys served everything from lamb on the spit, to haloumi and octopus and more, all prepared by friends. There are new
Kate Forsyth and The Crimson Thread
Award winning author, poet, and storyteller, Dr Kate Forsyth drops into The Distillery to talk about her latest novel; The Crimson Thread. Set in Crete during WWII, The Crimson Thread is a reimagining of the ancient Greek 'Minotaur in the Labyrinth’ myth. The story sees a young woman fighting with the Cretan resistance against the brutal Nazi occupation, before finding herself caught between her traitor of a brother and the man she loves - an undercover agent working for the Allies. While
The World Game with Andy Paschalidis
Legendary football (soccer) commentator Andy Paschalidis drops into The Distillery to talk all things world football as well as his amazing charity: HeartBeat of Football. From his early days as a journalist to hosting World Cups on SBS and calling some of the biggest events in the sport, Andy is an icon of ‘the beautiful game’ in Australia and overseas, most recently calling games for the Indian Super League. Andy recalls Greece’s Euro 2004 win, the state of Greek football in general, as well a
The Greeks of Calabria with Billy Cotsis
Greeks are well and truly everywhere, and few people know this better than writer, documentary filmmaker and Greek raconteur, Billy Cotsis. Billy joins Tom and Nick in The Distillery to discuss his latest film; ‘Magna Graecia: the Greko of Calabria’, developed in collaboration with Basil Genimahaliotis, which focuses on the Greko communities of Calabria in the southernmost part of the Italian peninsula. This unique community have maintained millennia-old links to their ancient and medieval Helle
Mark Bouris
You may know Mark Bouris as the founder and chairman of Wizard Home Loans and Yellow Brick Road. You might equally know him as the host of The Apprentice, or the host of podcasts such as The Mentor, and Straight Talk. One thing’s for sure though - you don’t know Mark Bouris like this. Mark joins Tom and Nick in The Distillery to talk about his Greek heritage, his incredible professional journey, his numerous business interests and everything in between. When Mark talks, it definitely pays to lis
Greeks in the Navy - Commodore John Stavridis
Tom and Nick are on their best behaviour as Australian Navy Captain (and avid Ouzo talk listener) Commodore John Stavridis, boards the Distillery to talk about his personal journey, as well as the strong connection between Greeks and the Navy... but not just the Australian Navy. No matter where in the world Greeks are, their connection to the ocean is always visible thanks to how numerous they are in the Naval forces of the USA, UK and of course, Greece. Hear first-hand stories of coming into co
Actor, comedian - George Kapiniaris
Iconic Greek-Australian comedian, George Kapiniaris, stopped by the Distillery for a drink with Tom and Nick to talk about his career on stage and screen, as well as his Greek roots. From growing up Greek in Melbourne to appearing in the now legendary TV sit-com 'Acropolis Now' alongside Mary Coustas and Nick Giannopoulos as his alter-ego, Memo, to his roles in 'Underbelly', 'Fat Pizza' and more, George has become a much-loved Greek-Australian god of comedy and perf
Greek Olive Oil - The Governor with Spyros Dafnis
Nothing says Greece like a quality olive oil, and The Governor is one of the best. During his recent trip to Corfu, Tom sat down with Spyros Dafnis, the man behind The Governor, to discuss the amazing journey from being an everyday olive mill, to being one of the highest rated high phenolic, extra virgin olive oil brands globally, plus being used as part of clinical trials. An inspiring story that showcases Greek creativity, commitment to quality, and ingenuity. Tom and Nick find out what makes
Santorini with Peter Maneas
Join Tom, Nick and the host of hit TV series, My Greek Odyssey, Peter Maneas as Ouzo Talk kicks off a series on the Greek Islands. And what better place to start than arguably the most popular of them all - Santorini. Widely regarding as the postcard image of Greece, the sight of the island's steep cliffs overlooking the deep blue of the caldera, dotted by shiny white houses with blue doors and windows is one of – if not – the most romantic images that Greece has to offer, prompting million
Greece at the Rugby League World Cup
As Greece prepares to play in their first ever Rugby League World Cup, Tom and Nick sit down with the team’s Head Coach, Steve Georgallis from the North Queensland Cowboys, South Sydney Rabbitohs player Peter Mamouzelos, and Team Manager Terry Liberopoulos to talk about the journey to the historic moment. And boy was it a bumpy one. From playing games in secret to avoid the Police, to in-fighting, politics and everything in between, Greece’s road to Rugby League’s international centrepiece is wo
Helen Zahos – humanitarian nurse in Ukraine, Iraq, and Greece
Fresh from the front lines of the war in Ukraine, humanitarian nurse Helen Zahos joins Nick and Tom to talk about her first-hand experience. But Ukraine is far from being Helen’s first rodeo, having also volunteered in Iraq, in Greece during the Syrian refugee crisis, but also helping victims of the Bali bombing. Helen has put herself in the firing lines of some of the world’s most dangerous places and conflicts, and has seen things that most people simply wouldn’t want to see. She’s given Ted T
Ouzo Talk - Zorba the Greek - manuscript, movie & music
“Teach me to dance!” Professor Vrasidas Karalis of Sydney University, and renowned conductor/composer, George Ellis join the boys in the Distillery for a drink and a chat about one of – if not the most – iconic modern Greek texts, “Zorba the Greek”. From the original book by Nikos Kazantzakis, to the 1964 film starring Anthony Quinn, Alana Bates and Irene Pappas, to the incredible music of Mikis Theodorakis, Zorba has become a part of Greek culture and for many non-Greeks, was their introduction
Ouzo Talk - Anthony Locascio
Stand-up comedian, Anthony Locascio, just couldn't resist having a drink with the Ouzo Talk boys. After some subtle peer-pressure, Anthony gives in and joins Tom and Nick in sharing a few beverages as the stories begin to flow. One of the rising stars of stand-up comedy in Australia, 'Entoni' - as he's lovingly referred to by his Nonno - talks about growing up as a Greek-Italian-Australian and how those cultures have influenced him and his comedy. Listen in to find out which
Ouzo Talk - Back to Greece
After almost three years waiting, our man Tom finally breaks the shackles of Australia's lockdowns to fly back to Greece for the start of the European Summer... and he's back with plenty of stories to tell. From meeting 'The Greek Freak' Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers, to being interviewed on Rythmos 94.9 about Ouzo Talk, as well as taking in all the sights and sounds of Summer in Greece, Tom and Nick reunite to share an Ouzo and to recount Tom's new stories. If
Ouzo Talk - Bouzouki legend Thanasis Polykandriotis
Ouzo Talk goes bi-lingual* for one episode as the boys welcome bouzouki legend, teacher, composer and recording artist, Thanasis Polykandriotis to The Distillery. From working with legends such as Stelios Kazantzidis, Manos Hatzidakis, Nana Mouschouri, Mikis Theodorakis and Stratos Dionysiou to name a few, Thanasi is rightly revered as one of the greats of Greek folk, classical and popular music. With returning bouzouki experts, Peter Apostolidis and George Calopedos also on board for the ride,
Ouzo Talk - Greek Cuisine - Peter Conistis, Mary Politis & David Tsirekas
When it comes to Greek food, chef Peter Conistis of 'Alpha and Ploos', Mary Politis from 'Mary's Kouzina' and David Tsirekas are more than just experts. They're at the forefront of maintaining, extending and re-imagining our treasured cuisine. In true Greek fashion, the trio arrive at the Ouzo Talk Distillery with hands full of food and ready to talk about why Greek food is undeniably the best cuisine on earth. From Moussaka, to Baklava, and Sofrito to souvlaki and
Ouzo Talk - The untold stories of WWII: Greece & the ANZACs
Ouzo Talk pauses to commemorate and remember the sacrifice of thousands of young men and women who put their lives on hold, or lost their lives in defence of their countries during WWII. For Greece, the losses were staggering – amounting to some 10% of the total male population. Alongside those Greeks, particularly in places like Crete and Lemnos, were the ANZACs – the Australia and New Zealand Army Corp. Tom and Nick are joined by Archaeologist and Historian Dr Michael Bendon, and proud Cretan
Trailer: Ouzo Talk - the podcast for the Greek diaspora
No matter where you are in the world, you’ll find Greeks, and where there’s Greeks, there’s friends enjoying a drink and talking about being Greek. Join Greek-Australians, Tom Skolarikis and Nick Athanassiou as they celebrate the things that connect us. From successful Greeks to important issues, and everything in between.Ouzo Talk is your ‘parea’. So pour yourself a drink, and join the boys as they try and solve the world’s problems, one Ouzo bottle at a time. Ouzo Talk – the podcast for the Gr
Ouzo Talk - Angelo Tsarouchas
Ever wondered what it’d be like to have a stand-up comedian give you a private performance at home? Time to find out! Comedian, actor and writer, Angelo Tsarouchas, joins Tom and Nick in Sydney during his latest Australian tour, and has the boys in stitches from the get-go. Covering everything from growing up Greek in Canada and his time as a travel agent, to becoming a comedian and actor and ultimately touring the world with performers like Russell Peters, Angelo (and the boys) are in fine form
Ouzo Talk - Pankration. The UFC of Ancient Greece
Martial arts like Karate, Kung Fu, and Muay Thai might dominate popular culture, but did you know that Greece’s own Martial art pre-dates them all? Attributed to Hercules and Theseus in mythology, Pankration was one of the original Olympic sports, and original Mixed Martial Art, combining wrestling and boxing with chokes, locks and kicks into a single system that ended up permeating Ancient Greek society and culture - ultimately inspiring virtually all the forms that followed. Tom and Nick are j
Ouzo Talk - A Greek Easter
Join Nick and Tom as they walk you through what it takes to have a very Greek Easter. No single annual event on any Greek family’s calendar comes close to the size and spectacle of this annual religious event. From the special traditions like fasting, baking tsourekia, painting red eggs, and going to church, to the more bizarre traditions of throwing large pottery over the balcony and firing homemade rockets at a neighbouring village’s church – there’s so much to cover when it comes to a Greek E
Ouzo Talk – Mary Coustas & Effie
Actor, comedian and writer Mary Coustas joins the Ouzo Talk boys for an in -depth chat about her new show at the Sydney Opera House, This is Personal. This is your chance to find out more about Mary's Greekness, her amazing career on screen and on stage, as well as her journey to motherhood. Admittedly, things seem to go well... until Effie crashes the party!From 'Wogs Out of Work' and 'Acropolis Now', to stand-up and writing books like Effie's Guide to Being Up You
Ouzo Talk - Conductor & Composer, George Ellis
If you don't know George Ellis, you only think you don’t know him, because chances are you’ve heard some of his work already. From the Olympic Games opening and closing ceremonies, NRL Grand Finals and the Davis Cup, to concerts of all styles across the globe, the hands of George Ellis have guided some of the world's greatest musicians in front of hundreds of thousands of people. He's also worked with the likes of: Lou Reed, The Church, Megan Washington, Josh Pyke, Sneaky Sound Sy
Ouzo Talk - My Greek Odyssey with Peter Maneas
Ever dreamed of sailing the Greek islands on a super yacht? Peter Maneas has been living out that dream as host of his very own TV series, My Greek Odyssey, taking viewers the world over along for the ride with him. Fresh from filming seasons five and six of the show, Peter drops by Ouzo Talk to talk about his modern day Odyssey - how the son of Kytherian migrants rose to being a successful businessman and TV host, how the show began, as well as providing some of his very own tips on travelling
Ouzo Talk - Greek Wines
If you haven’t tried a Greek wine, now’s the time. Tom and Nick sit down with avid wine collector, Nick Andriotakis, along with wine importer, Miloways’ Con Ipermachou to taste some of the best wines that Greece has on offer. From ‘Assyrtiko’, to ‘Ag Giorgitiko’ and everything in between, take a deep dive into the ancient art of wine making. The wines of France and Italy may be justifiably revered, but pour yourself one of these drops and prepare yourself for a pleasant surprise.This episode of
Ouzo Talk - The Parthenon Marbles
There's no more contentious issue in modern Greek history than that of the Parthenon Marbles. Stripped from the Parthenon atop Athens’ Acropolis under dubious circumstances by Lord Elgin while Greece was under occupation, the Marbles were irreversibly damaged by Elgin's team, before being shipped to the UK where they were eventually sold to The British Museum – the place where they now reside. Greeks, non-Greeks, and Philhellenes the world-over want them to be returned to Athens where
Ouzo Talk - Barbecues, Barbayianni and Souvla
There's nothing more Greek than standing around an open flame with a drink as hunks of meat turn on a rotisserie, and sizzle over charcoal. Join Tom and Nick in their quest to put on the perfect bbq and 'souvla', with the help of bbq makers Pete and Foti, as well as Greek/Cypriot bbq connoisseur, Steve. From meat and marinades, to charcoal and equipment, this is a must listen before your next family event. Throw in a bit of Barbayianni Ouzo as well, and things get a little rowdie
Ouzo Talk - The Bouzouki
Pour yourself a drink and prepare to dance as Tom and Nick welcome their first guests in bouzouki repairer extraordinaire, Peter Apostolidis and bouzouki player/teacher George Calopedos, to discuss Greece's national instrument. From its history and impact, to what makes a good bouzouki, as well as a discussion on who the greatest makers and players of all time are, this is more than just a discussion. It's a love letter to the sound of Greece. Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.E
Ouzo Talk - Meet the boys
Meet Tom and Nick – your new drinking buddies and guides to all things Greek. In their first encounter, the boys trade stories ranging from the connection they have to their heritage, plus meeting Greeks during their travels in some very unlikely places.They also deep dive into the latest news on the Parthenon Marbles and UNESCO's calls for their return to Athens, plus the new defence pact between Greece and France. Support the showEmail us at ouzotalk@outlook.comSubscribe to our Youtube: h