Baklava & Banter Podcast Show

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 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! 

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 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 PPV

Subscribe 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 

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 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. 

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Crime. 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? 

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On 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, 2026

In this episode, we explore:
Greek-American history and cultural preservation
The mission of the Hellenic Museum of Michigan
Why storytelling matters across generations
How younger Greek Americans are reconnecting with their roots
The significance of #WeAreGreekWarriors
Why heritage is meant to be lived, celebrated, and shared

👉 For more information, visit: www.hellenicmi.org

This 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.

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Baklava & Banter is hosted by Peter & Sotiri Barbounis

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Shelley 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

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Join 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/
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Recorded in NYC
©2025 Sleeping Bear Productions

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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. 

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On 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/baTtrJ3

https://buymeacoffee.com/acorfuloveaffair/e/413731

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Join 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