In this episode of Cawfee Tawk, Tara Cannistraci sits down with the hilarious and wildly talented Arianna Papalexopoulos — actor, writer, creator, and proud half–Italian & half-Greek American. They dive into her beautifully blended upbringing, from growing up with two cultures to defending her long Greek last name (she had just learned how to spell it — no way was she giving that up!).

Arianna shares stories of her summers in Greece, the family love story that literally started because her mom happened to have feta cheese in the fridge, and how she learned to say yes to herself in an industry that is rooted in rejection. She talks about carving her own opportunities, balancing talent with education, and her work ethic that she credits to her father.

Tara & Arianna even compare the legendary Greek yiayia and the iconic Italian nonna, swapping sayings, and discovering — to absolutely no one's surprise — that putana is both Greek and Italian.

With their shared love of stage and in true theatrical fashion, the two also bond over their love for John Patrick Shanley as Tara recounts seeing a reading of the original Moonstruck screenplay just days before.

It's warm, funny, heartfelt, and full of culture. Grab your cawfee or freddo espresso and join us!

🙋🏻‍♀️ 🇮🇹Check out Tara's Live Show! 👉https://taracannistraci.com/#shows

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Welcome to Cawfee Tawk with Tara Cannistraci AKA TaraJokes! Join comedian Tara Cannistraci every Monday! Tara reflects on the week that was or the life that was, whether it's nostalgia about NYC life, current trends, or real-life stories. This podcast is perfectly timed to accompany your morning coffee. Good morning, fellow cawfee lovers! -- Tara Cannistraci is an Italian-American comedian, actress, and writer, hailing from the vibrant streets of the Bronx, New York. Tara's talents have lit up the stage, television, film, and even centerfield as the scoreboard host for the New York Yankees.

Tara brought her unfiltered, humorous take on popular sports topics to SNY's Emmy award-winning television show "Oh Yeah," where she both wrote for and featured in the series. Currently, she co-hosts the Chazz Palminteri Show podcast, captivating audiences with her honest insights and vivacious personality. She also co-produced and starred in We Stand Comedy's multi award-winning short film "The Chart" showcasing her versatility & misdirecting sense of humor.

On social media, Tara has gained a following by sharing the words and phrases she grew up hearing in her New York Italian neighborhood, resonating with people across the country. Her comedy album, "I'm Talkin' Here," is a regular feature on Sirius XM.

Tara's new YouTube series, "Boroughbreds," features her doing hilarious on-the-street interviews throughout the New York boroughs, highlighting all things New York from common phrases to family owned businesses.

Tara has opened for comedy heavyweights like Josh Wolf, Joey Diaz and Vic DiBitetto, and now headlines shows across the U.S. and Canada. Her authenticity and wit continue to win over audiences wherever she performs!