The Less Desirables Recorded in  The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza.

Tim and Bethany celebrate The Less Desirables’ 16th anniversary, 831 episodes strong since that first recording in Tim’s bedroom back in 2010, by welcoming back actress, writer, and director Katerina Sigala. Fresh from their coffee date the previous week, Katerina shares her journey from Greece to North Carolina one year ago, where she created the comedy character Souvlaki Girl to combat depression and pay her bills. The character satirizes both Greek and American cultures through stand-up performances at theaters and Greek restaurants, complete with traditional dancing and lots of “opa!” at the end. Katerina explains that while she loves all genres, she gravitates toward black comedies and mystery thrillers, recently completing a short film called “I’m Not Guilty” about a woman who killed her husband—though it’s really a metaphor about not killing your dreams.

The conversation explores the stark differences between working in the film industry in Greece versus North Carolina, with Katerina noting how the collaborative spirit she experienced working with Netflix, Hallmark Channel, and Disney projects in Greece differs from what she’s encountered stateside. She and Tim discuss the lack of film incentives in North Carolina after the state legislature stripped them away, sending productions fleeing to Atlanta despite North Carolina once ranking third behind only California and New York. Katerina emphasizes the importance of building teams with good souls and talent, sharing stories of unpaid first shows that helped her identify dedicated workers versus those giving only 10% effort. Tim offers to connect her with his friend at Camel City Playhouse and Tommy at Coffee Park Airstream for potential Souvlaki Girl performances.

The episode delves into Greek culture, from the importance of family over careerto the challenges of adjusting to American scheduling culture and processed food. They discuss Greek mythology, with Katerina correcting misconceptions about Medusa and explaining how ancient Greek stories connect to modern traditions like the Olympics. She shares her background as a dance teacher in belly dance, freestyle, and reggaeton, now practicing pole dance and ballet in the US. Tim and Katerina bond over their shared philosophy of building up women, respecting politeness over rudeness, and the Bill & Ted principle of being excellent to each other. Katerina was an amazing guest!

Special thanks, as always, to  Top Leaf Cigar Lounge ,  Soft Golf ,  Coffee Park Airstream ,  Dream Kreams , and  X1 Communications .
“Paper Tiger” by Don’t Believe In Ghosts is the song of the week.