Most memorable journeys

In this inspiring episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk to the remarkable Larisa Miller, a powerhouse entrepreneur, global strategist, and visionary leader who is reshaping the way we do business across the world.

Born on a farm in Hershey County, Pennsylvania, Larisa’s journey from rural beginnings to global boardrooms is nothing short of extraordinary. We explore her deep Hungarian roots, and how Budapest remains her soul’s recharge station, offering not just beauty, but a profound connection to heritage, strength, and self-renewal.

Now the Founder and CEO of Phoenix Global and AIR, Larisa shares the philosophies and driving forces behind her bold leadership. Her ability to disrupt traditional business models, craft long-term strategies, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs has made her one of the most sought-after voices in modern leadership.

We talk about her multi-continent impact, working across the USA, UAE, and beyond and how she balances innovation with sustainability. Larisa also opens up about empowering women, developing a disruptive mindset, and making strategic investments that go far beyond capital—supporting vision, transformation, and legacy.

🌿 Larisa’s Hungarian heritage and why Budapest is her soul’s sanctuary

🚜 Growing up on a Pennsylvania farm and how her rural roots shaped her leadership style

🌍 Leading with vision as CEO of Phoenix Global & AIR, across global markets

💡 The importance of purpose-driven disruption in business

🎤 Her work as a speaker and author, inspiring change across sectors and continents

💪 Empowering women and future leaders through action, not just words

📈 How she redefines investment to align with transformation and global progress

🔥 The mindset shift needed to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity in uncertain times

Larisa Miller is a globally respected entrepreneur, speaker, investor, and transformation strategist. As CEO of Phoenix Global and AIR, she leads organizations across borders with bold, future-ready solutions that prioritize innovation, sustainability, and long-term success. Her ability to inspire, disrupt, and deliver results has positioned her as a trusted advisor and thought leader across multiple industries.

• Love stories of global leadership and courageous transformation
• Want practical insights on disrupting the status quo and leading with purpose
• Are passionate about women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and future-forward thinking
• Seek inspiration to turn roots into wings—from humble beginnings to global influence

🎧 Tune in to hear how Larisa Miller combines heritage, heart, and high-impact leadership to shape the future—one empowered decision at a time.

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by legendary Australian broadcaster George Donikian, a man whose voice has shaped newsrooms across three national TV networks and whose story is as rich as the cultures he proudly represents.

We dive into George’s Greek-Armenian roots, growing up in Sydney speaking Greek, Armenian, and Turkish before learning English at the age of seven. He reflects on his father’s journey from Athens to Australia, the early challenges of migration, and the deeply personal moment when his father, despite his reservations, drove with him to Queensland to support the start of his television career.

George shares candid memories of being encouraged to change his name in radio, navigating identity in Australian media, and the importance of staying true to your cultural heritage. We also share a mutual love for the Middle East, Armenia, and the deep beauty found in ancient cultures that are too often misunderstood.

From soccer dreams and shoulder injuries to breaking barriers in multicultural broadcasting, this conversation is rich with wisdom, resilience, and insight. George opens up about the importance of representation, the stories behind his television rise, and the power of vulnerability when carving a public path.

🧬 The impact of George’s Greek-Armenian heritage and his trilingual upbringing

🚘 A father’s quiet act of love—supporting George’s unlikely career in television

🎙️ His early radio days and being asked to anglicize his surname for ‘audience comfort’

📺 Breaking new ground with SBS World News, Nine Network, and Ten News

🌍 Why we both love the Middle East, Armenia, and the beauty of ancient cultures

🎤 What it takes to hold space as a public voice across decades of changing media

🗣️ The importance of authenticity, identity, and finding your voice in a noisy world

George Donikian is an Australian media icon with a career spanning radio, television, and public speaking. Born in Sydney to Greek-Armenian parents, George brought a global voice to Australian newsrooms through his work with SBS, the Nine Network, and Network Ten. Known for his gravitas, warmth, and multicultural insight, George has also worked as a documentary host, MC, speaker, and media trainer—empowering others to find their voice in the modern media landscape.

Website: donikianmedia.com.au

LinkedIn: George Donikian

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk with the brave and inspiring Tsvety Roo, a digital nomad, solo traveler, and soul searcher who’s turned the world into both her home and her teacher.

Once thriving in a high-powered career at a New York City agency, Tsvety made a radical shift: she gave it all up to embrace minimalism and nomadic living. With nothing but a backpack and an open heart, she has spent the past two years journeying through 22 countries and 37 destinations, redefining what it means to belong and what it means to be truly connected.

✨ In this episode, we talk about:

• The rising epidemic of loneliness in a hyperconnected world

• How solo travel can lead to deeper connection with others and with yourself

• The powerful moment she chose to walk away from a “secure” life that no longer felt

  fulfilling

• The challenges and beauty of living without a permanent home

• The freedom that comes when you realize you always have a choice

• Lessons learned from meaningful connections with strangers across the globe

Tsvety shares her powerful personal transformation, from feeling stuck and isolated to creating a life of purpose, freedom, and authentic connection. Her journey is a reminder that sometimes, the scariest steps we take are the ones that lead us back to ourselves.

🌍 Whether you’re dreaming of solo travel or seeking a life of more meaning and less ‘stuff,’ this conversation will stir your spirit and challenge your comfort zone.

📌 Connect with Tsvety Roo

Instagram and Website

https://www.instagram.com/tsvetyroo?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.tsvetyroo.com/💬 “We think we have no choice—but freedom often begins with one brave decision.” – Tsvety Roo

In this deeply moving episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I speak with a remarkable woman whose life story reads like a journey from suppression to soulful awakening.

Born and raised in Czechoslovakia, behind the borders of the Western world, her early years were shaped by the restrictions of life before the Velvet Revolution. But it was in the aftermath of political transformation that another, more personal revolution began—one of intuition, healing, and empowerment.

✨ In this episode, we explore:

• What life was like behind the Iron Curtain

• How she discovered she was born intuitive and deeply empathetic

• The synchronistic events that led her to manifest a life by the sea in Cyprus

• Her journey through heartbreak, loss, and the healing power of inner work

• Why emotional trauma lives in the body—and how it affects our health and

  relationships

• How she now helps women heal through somatic therapy, quantum energy work,

  and NLP

Her story is not just about healing—it’s about remembering who you truly are and reclaiming your power after pain. Through the wisdom of her own experience, she now guides other women to live emotionally healthy, embodied, and fulfilled lives.

🌀 Whether you’re navigating emotional pain, seeking your purpose, or simply love stories of resilience and transformation, this episode will touch your heart and awaken your soul.

💫 Her Work

Specializing in mind-body healing, she empowers women to release stored trauma, awaken their intuition, and live with clarity, joy, and connection.

In this vibrant and heartwarming episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk with the charismatic and passionate Tonia Buxton—British TV presenter, restaurateur, author, and proud ambassador of Greek Cypriot culture.

We dive into a rich conversation about life, family, Cyprus, and how Tonia followed her passion to become a global voice for Cypriot food and heritage. From the vibrant dishes of My Greek Kitchen to the stories of how it all happened Tonia shares how her love for history, health, and culture has shaped her journey.

✨ We also talk about:

• The deep connection between food and identity

• Tonia’s inspiring views on healthy aging

• What it’s like raising strong, creative children—including supporting her daughter  

  Antigoni’s dreams

• How she blends tradition with modern wellness

• Her experiences on Discovery Channel Travel & Living, Good Morning Britain,  

  This Morning, and Sunday Brunch

Tonia’s energy is contagious and her stories are filled with flavour—both literally and figuratively. This episode is a celebration of heritage, passion, and purpose.

🎧 Tune in to hear about:

• The bravery of Achilles and the wisdom of Socrates (yes, we go there!)

• What drives a woman to represent her roots with such flair

• How to live fully and fabulously—at any age

💫 Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or just in need of some serious inspiration, this one’s for you.

🔗 Connect with Tonia Buxton

Website | Instagram | Books

https://www.toniabuxton.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/toniabuxton

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Tonia-Buxton/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ATonia%2BBuxton

📚 Tonia is the author of five books on food, health, and holistic living, and her shows have aired in over 30 countries. Her story is proof that when you mix passion with purpose, magic happens.

In this inspiring episode, I talk with Elly Symons — a passionate Greek-Australian cultural heritage advocate and leading voice in the international campaign to return the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

Elly is the Vice President of the Australian Parthenon Committee and co-founder of the Acropolis Research Group. With deep roots in Ithaca and Agros, Cyprus, she splits her time between Australia, Cyprus, and Athens — often residing in the shadow of the Acropolis.

We dive into:

🇬🇷 The story of Greek and Cypriot emigration to Australia

👰 The fascinating (and sometimes heartbreaking) history of young brides sent abroad without knowing their husbands

🏛 Her mission to reunite the Parthenon Marbles with their rightful home

🗣 Her coined term “unified monument argument” and why the marbles and the temple belong together

👩‍👧‍👦 How motherhood and volunteering shaped her journey into advocacy

🌍 Her role as moderator and presenter at the Cyprus Diaspora Forum

This episode is a heartfelt journey into cultural identity, belonging, and the power of standing up for what you believe in — even across continents and generations.

🎧 Tune in to be inspired by Elly’s remarkable story of heritage, healing, and hope.

In this exciting episode, we sit down with Dr. Vasilis Papavasiliou, an esteemed academic and tourism scholar with a passion for culture, identity, and the evolution of tourism. As the Head of the Hospitality & Tourism Field and a Senior Lecturer, Dr. Papavasiliou’s work focuses on how individuals and communities engage with tourism and hospitality. His research dives deep into the fascinating areas of cultural anthropology, authenticity, and destination development, particularly in the context of Cyprus. He also shares all the information about his recent TEDxTalk and how tour guides have a social aspect and interaction and play a pivotal role as ambassadors.

In this episode, Dr. Papavasiliou shares insights from his PhD research, which explores the collective memory and narrative construction of tourism destinations, specifically in the context of Cyprus’ divided history. He also reflects on his work in cultural anthropology and the impact of history education on tourism, alongside his fascinating experiences as both an academic and a tour guide.

Not only is Dr. Papavasiliou an influential educator, but he is also an inspiring ambassador for Cyprus, promoting the island’s rich heritage globally. We delve into his role as the King of the Limassol Carnival 2025, the intersections of tourism, identity, and culture, and how he blends entertainment and education through his engaging social media presence.

In this episode, we explore the life of Dr. John LaCasse, a man whose journey spans from the heights of wealth and business success to the depths of metaphysical exploration. Born with an innate fascination for adventure and the unknown, John spent 25 years as a successful yacht broker, forming relationships with powerful figures like George Shultz, Gene Hackman, Jacques Cousteau, and even notorious crime figures like Meyer Lansky. But despite the wealth, the fast cars, and the glamorous lifestyle, something profound shifted in John’s life—he began asking, “Why am I living this life?”

This question led to a series of bold decisions, personal loss, and a deep search for meaning, ultimately culminating in a Ph.D. and a new calling as an academic and storyteller. John LaCasse shares his incredible story of reinvention, including his fearless approach to life, a transformative encounter with Native American leadership, and how his personal journey evolved into a cosmic narrative.

As a former faculty member at the prestigious Forbes School of Business, John seamlessly blends his academic expertise with his metaphysical discoveries. He is the author of the critically acclaimed series, including Deals Danger Destiny, Floppy Feathers, The Hunters, and The Game. His work combines science, history, spirituality, and metaphysics, creating a captivating and thought-provoking journey that challenges the boundaries of faith, science, and the universe.

Join us as we discuss the unique intersection of John’s life in business, academia, and cosmic exploration, diving deep into themes of faith, humanity’s place in the universe, and the profound storytelling that emerged from his quest to find divine connection.

In this episode, we sit down with Pat Labez, a dynamic and multifaceted individual who has embraced life’s many transitions, from a young realtor to a passionate advocate for seniors and mental health. Born in the Philippines, raised in Hawaii, and having lived from coast to coast in the U.S., Pat’s journey has been anything but conventional, but it’s a testament to the power of reinvention and purpose.

Pat is the founder of Third Act Encore Publishing and curator of the book Third Act Encore, where I had the honor of contributing a chapter. This book is a creative celebration of the later years in life, offering inspiration and empowerment for seniors. Through her work, Pat has also pioneered creative programs that provide enrichment for the senior community, combining her deep compassion for others with her love for the arts.

She’s a lifelong advocate for seniors and mental health, co-founding the International Mental Health Foundation, a non-profit that brings awareness to mental health and disabilities through the arts. Her advocacy is rooted in her personal experiences, which led her to pivot from a career in real estate to working in long-term care services.

Pat’s journey is expansive—starting as a realtor at the age of 22 in Hawaii, she eventually became a director for several non-profit organizations, including Elder Care Alliance and American Red Cross. She has volunteered for AARP, Alzheimer’s Association, Council on Aging, Hospice, and many others, always putting seniors and mental health at the forefront of her efforts.

In her late 60s, Pat returned to the creative arts and entertainment world, where she became an actor, producer, and international bestselling author. Her career highlights include roles in shows like Blue Bloods and New Amsterdam, and she is known for her work in feature films such as Baby Ruby and Howard.

Now a Seniors Real Estate Specialist in New Jersey, Pat continues her journey of reinvention. Her story is a shining example of embracing the third act of life with joy, purpose, and passion.

Join us as we discuss how Pat’s diverse career, advocacy, and creative pursuits have shaped her life, and how we can all live fully and authentically in our later years.

Her favorite quotes are: “Life is a gift that keeps on giving” - Voltaire

“Don’t die with the music still in you” - Wayne Dyer

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Andreas Christodoulides, the visionary founder of Zela Aviation and Zela Jet. 

Andreas was born and raised in Cyprus and has spent the majority of his life living in the UK. He now resides in Greece with his family, his company currently has offices in Cyprus, Greece and the UK. 

Andreas’ passion for aviation started at a very young age. From the moment he could remember, he was fascinated by planes and flying. As a boy, he dreamt of becoming a pilot, but his parents didn’t share that dream. Despite their reservations, Andreas’ passion for aviation never wavered. In fact, he took matters into his own hands by writing to airlines, asking for stickers and memorabilia, and immersing himself in everything related to the skies.

As he grew older, this childhood fascination blossomed into a career that would change the course of his life. In 2006, Andreas founded Zela Aviation, a company that has become a leader in the air charter and aircraft leasing sectors. Over the years, his entrepreneurial spirit and love for aviation expanded the company’s services to include private jet and helicopter charters, aircraft management, and consultancy.

In 2021, Andreas launched Zela Jet, a private jet and helicopter service, targeting the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East markets. With a fleet ranging from light jets to heavy aircraft, Zela Jet also offers luxury helicopter charters, sightseeing flights, and yacht services.

But Andreas’ passion for aviation extends beyond business. In 2023, he purchased two historic aircraft—a BAC 1-11 and a Boeing 727— from the old Hellinikon Airport to preserve aviation history and heritage. His vision of displaying these planes as cultural landmarks highlights his commitment to the aviation industry and the history that shaped it.

Join us as we explore Andreas’ journey from a young aviation dreamer to a successful entrepreneur and cultural preservator. This episode is a testament to following your passion and creating your own path, no matter where it begins.