#226 - Barbara Caver - A little piece of Cuba - Journey into Identity and Heritage

In this soul-stirring episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk to author and storyteller Barbara Caver, whose path from South Carolina to Cuba took her far beyond geography and deep into the heart of identity, belonging, and self-discovery.Barbara, a seasoned television and film professional turned memoirist, opens up about what it means to explore a homeland she had never seen but always carried within. Her book A Little Piece of Cuba chronicles a powerful personal pilgrimage, full of laughter, longing, color, and clarity, where she uncovers her Cuban roots and reclaims a part of herself that had long been tucked away.Together, Elisabeth and Barbara dive into:The emotional layers of traveling "home" for the first timeHow Cuba reshaped Barbara’s understanding of family, culture, and womanhoodThe process of writing a memoir that blends adventure, humor, and heritageWhy travel can be the most transformative form of healingAnd the joy of finding pieces of ourselves in the most unexpected placesThis conversation will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they’re straddling two worlds or longing for a deeper connection to where they come from.📝 About Barbara Caver:Barbara Caver is the author of A Little Piece of Cuba: A Journey to Become Cubana-Americana. A former film and TV production executive, Barbara turned to writing to explore identity and belonging through storytelling. She writes the Substack Tiny Escapes with Barb and continues to travel, write, and inspire.📖 Learn more about Barbara: barbaracaverauthor.com📚 Order the book: A Little Piece of Cuba (She Writes Press, 2024)📬 Read her stories: Tiny Escapes on Substack💬 Memorable Quote:"I thought I was going to Cuba to find my mother’s story but I ended up finding my own." – Barbara Caver🎧 Listen now – and prepare to be transported.#MostMemorableJourneys #TravelMemoir #Cuba #Identity #WomenWhoWrite #PodcastInterview #ElisabethVilligerToufexis #BarbaraCaver #SoulfulJourneys

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I am joined by Chad Scott, a therapist-turned-explorer and the author of Beyond the Darkness, a memoir that blends the rawness of grief, the depth of human emotion, and the transformative power of travel.After a life-altering liver transplant and navigating profound loss and illness, Chad did something unexpected, he set off on a global journey, visiting sites often linked to dark tourism, from former war zones to disaster-stricken regions. But instead of sinking into despair, Chad found meaning, connection, and healing in the world’s most somber places.Together, Elisabeth and Chad explore:•⁠ ⁠How pain and purpose can coexist•⁠ ⁠Why we need to talk about dark tourism, not just for curiosity, but for catharsis•⁠ ⁠How storytelling, travel, and human resilience intersect•⁠ ⁠What it means to be fully alive, even after walking through death’s shadowThis episode is for anyone who has faced adversity and is looking for light at the end of the tunnel or perhaps, within the tunnel itself.🌍 From therapist to explorer, Chad’s message is clear: "Healing is found not in avoiding the darkness, but in walking through it and sharing the story."📝 Mentioned in this episode:•⁠ ⁠Chad’s book: Beyond the Darkness•⁠ ⁠His journey through illness, transplant, and spiritual awakening•⁠ ⁠The surprising emotional lessons learned at sites of tragedy and historical trauma📚 Learn more about Chad Scott and his work at: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Darkness-Transformative-Journeys-Through/dp/1917523009🎧 Tune in, feel inspired, and remember sometimes the most meaningful journeys are the ones we never planned.#MostMemorableJourneys #ChadScott #BeyondTheDarkness #HealingThroughTravel #DarkTourism #GriefAndGrowth #Resilience #TransformationalTravel #LifeAfterLoss

In this deeply empowering episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by Mikaela Messiou, entrepreneur, author, female empowerment coach, and founder of the Awaken the Goddess Within coaching program. Mikaela is on a mission to help women transform their wellness, finances, and home life through consciousness, practical strategies, and inner alignment.We dive into her inspiring story, from her academic excellence in the UK and Strasbourg, to co-founding Damaris Health & Wellness Center in Cyprus, to writing her bestselling series “The Goddess In You,” which includes The Goddess In You: A Bible of Financial Freedom and The Goddess Workbook: Nurture the Goddess In You. Mikaela's journey is marked by grace, resilience, creativity, and purpose.In This Episode, We Explore:“Awaken the Goddess Within” Coaching ProgramA transformative 3-month coaching experience helping ambitious women achieve holistic wellness, financial freedom, and domestic bliss, with limited spots for a personalized journey. Book Series: “The Goddess In You”Discover how her books serve as daily companions and actionable guides, focusing on inner power, finance, and life-balance. Entrepreneurial & Academic BackgroundMikaela graduated First Class Honours in Business and French at the University of Reading, continued studies at the École de Commerce de Strasbourg, and earned a Master’s in Human Resource Management from Oxford.Damaris Health & Wellness CenterAs Co‑Founder & CEO, she brings holistic health—mind, body, spirit—under one roof in Cyprus, dedicated to excellence, self-care, and radiant well-being. Her Philosophy: Domestic Bliss ReimaginedLearn how she defines a peaceful, joyful home life—not as a static ideal, but as a dynamic, empowered state of being cultivated through balance, intention, and wellness.Author, Mother, VisionaryMikaela lives in Cyprus with her husband Andreas and their twin children. She balances life as an author, coach, mother, and innovator—continuously dreaming up new ways to support women in thriving. About Mikaela Messiou:Entrepreneur & Visionary LeaderServing for over 16 years in leadership roles, she brings passion, precision, and heart to her ventures in wellness and empowerment. Author & Female Empowerment CoachAuthor of the Goddess In You book series and workbook, Mikaela created Awaken the Goddess Within to personally guide women toward transformation. Creator of Holistic Wellness ApproachesHer work spans health, finance, coaching, and community, anchored in the belief that women can live with both purpose and peace.Educator & Wellness AdvocateTrained in business, wellness, and emotional intelligence, she’s committed to helping women step into their full roles as changemakers in health, home, and business.Episode Highlights:The origin story of the Awaken the Goddess Within coaching programBehind the scenes of The Goddess In You book seriesHer wellness-centered entrepreneurial approach at DamarisWhy financial freedom is a pillar of true empowermentPersonal reflections on “domestic bliss” and everyday joyWhere to Connect & Learn...

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I speak with Phil Treagus Evans — author of Human First Marketing and CEO of Giraffe Social Media, a global agency built on creativity, authenticity, and connection.Phil is not only a business leader but also a storyteller at heart. With his forward-thinking approach to marketing, he challenges the old ways of chasing algorithms and instead emphasizes putting people first. His book Human First Marketing has become a guide for entrepreneurs and brands who want to lead with empathy, authenticity, and purpose.We also talk about the freedom he has built into his life and business, running a successful company that allows him to work from anywhere in the world. Alongside him on this journey is his wife, Leah Marie, a gifted photographer specializing in wedding photography, who shares his adventurous and creative spirit.This conversation dives deep into:📖 The inspiration behind Human First Marketing💡 Why brands must focus on authenticity and people-first values in the digital era🌍 How Phil built Giraffe Social Media into a flexible, globally connected agency👫 The creative partnership he shares with his wife Leah Marie and their freedom-driven lifestyle🔑 Lessons on leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a business that aligns with your valuesPhil’s journey is a reminder that marketing — and life — works best when it’s human at its core.🌟 About Phil Treagus Evans:Phil Treagus Evans is the CEO of Giraffe Social Media and author of Human First Marketing. An entrepreneur with a passion for authentic communication, Phil has helped brands worldwide build meaningful online presence by focusing on people, not just metrics. Alongside his wife, photographer Leah Marie, Phil embraces a flexible lifestyle where business, creativity, and freedom intertwine.📚 Learn More About Phil:🔗 Giraffe Social Media: https://www.giraffesocialmedia.co.uk📖 Book: Human First Marketing (available now)📸 Leah Marie Photography: https://www.leahmariephotography.com🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about business, creativity, and living life on your own terms.

In this heartfelt and illuminating episode, I reconnect with two of the three authors behind The Magical Journey of John and Adele — Darius and Marija, whom I had the pleasure of meeting in Cyprus. Though I haven’t yet met Mary from Ireland, her presence in this powerful trio is deeply felt in the spirit of the book and their unique collaboration. Together, they write under the collective pen name Ancius M. Murray.The three met in Paris during their studies at the prestigious French Government School for Public Administration — Darius as a physicist, Marija as a lawyer, and Mary as a creative writer. What began as a friendship rooted in cultural exchange eventually blossomed into a beautiful creative journey — one that would take twelve years and culminate in a novel unlike any other.The Magical Journey of John and Adele is more than just a story. It’s a gentle blend of mystery, magical realism, and self-help — a relationship toolkit disguised as fiction. In this episode, we explore:How the book came to life over four years of collaborationThe inspiration behind the characters of John and Adele, a couple at a crossroadsThe fable-like structure that makes it both soothing and transformationalHow fiction can help heal relationships and encourage self-reflectionThe importance of friendship, loyalty, and second chances in love and lifeThis story is especially refreshing because it centers around a couple who are not in the first flush of youth, offering wisdom and tools for those navigating long-term relationships. It’s relaxing, uplifting, and carries a gentle magic that encourages us all to dare to dream again.💫 Whether you're in a relationship or reflecting on one, this book — and this episode — offers insights for the heart and soul.👉 Learn more about the authors and their work at: https://anciusmmurray.co.uk📚 Get the Book:The Magical Journey of John and Adele – Available now via https://anciusmmurray.co.uk

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I sit down with the extraordinary Helen Argyrou, a clinical psychologist, sacred sound therapist, speaker, author, and global thought leader based in Limassol, Cyprus, whose roots trace back to Africa.Helen brings a unique fusion of science and spirituality into everything she does, whether it’s through drumming therapy, Enneagram coaching, or her pioneering work in neuroscience-based entrainment and flow states. We dive deep into the healing power of rhythm, the neuroplastic magic of sound, and how sacred drumming can realign and reawaken the self.💡 In this episode, we explore:The mystical science of sacred sound therapy and its role in psychological and energetic healingHow drumming impacts brainwave frequencies, helping to entrain the mind and nervous systemHelen’s transformative project One HEARTBEAT Cyprus, uniting Greek and Turkish Cypriot youth through rhythmHer global leadership platform Women of Truth – Yinalithea, curating stages for 170+ speakers across 5 international eventsThe 13-part Copper Thread series, an upcoming sound healing collaboration with world musiciansWhat it means to be a neuroscience FlowMojo™ researcher and why rhythm is key to mental and emotional resilienceInsights from her bestselling book The Biggest Lies Women Believe and the Women of TruthHer mission to redefine feminine leadership and elevate the "XtraVisionaries" of our timeHelen's deep belief in heart-based thought leadership as the antidote to the challenges of modern lifeFrom working with children through entrainment therapy to organizing global health think tanks and art festivals, Helen’s work is a symphony of compassion, creativity, and conscious impact.🌍 About Helen Argyrou:Helen holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and is an accredited GESY practitioner, Enneagram coach, mentor, speaker, and sound therapist. She’s also the founder of Women of Truth, an award-winning global leadership platform, and the creator of DrumInspire, a therapeutic movement that’s inspired transformation in over 13 countries.She is an ambassador for organizations such as Female Wave of Change, G100, My Body My Body, and the Strong Institute, and she continues to pioneer integrative healing modalities in both the personal and collective spheres.💫 Her motto: “When down becomes up, grace emerges.”📚 Learn More & Connect:🔗 Website: www.helenaha.com📖 Book: The Biggest Lies Women Believe and the Women of Truth🎶 Project: The Copper Thread – Sound activations launching May 2025🎧 Meditation & Music: Coming soon🎧 Tune in for a conversation that will awaken your senses, uplift your spirit, and inspire you to tap into the healing rhythm of your own heart.

In this powerful and insightful episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I sit down with Dr. Stavros Nicolaou, a pioneering leader in Africa’s pharmaceutical sector and Group Senior Executive of Strategic Trade Development at Aspen Pharmacare, one of South Africa’s most globalized companies.Dr. Nicolaou shares the remarkable journey of his 30+ year career in the healthcare industry, from being a key player in the introduction of Africa’s first generic ARVs, a move that helped save hundreds of thousands of lives, to spearheading initiatives in vaccine manufacturing, health security, and regional development across the continent.🧠 In this episode, we discuss:The importance of local vaccine manufacturing in Africa post-COVID-19The critical role of regulatory reform to enable equitable access to medicinesThe challenges and opportunities of pharmaceutical innovation in emerging marketsWhy building predictable demand pipelines is vital for manufacturing resilienceHow Aspen is tackling workforce development and upskilling across AfricaDr. Nicolaou’s reflections on leadership, public-private partnerships, and impact-driven changeHis experience serving in numerous high-level national and international boards, including B4SA, PHARMISA, BRICS Business Council, and moreWe also explore his Greek-Cypriot heritage and deep commitment to health equality and empowerment on the African continent, as well as the recognitions and honors he has received, including an honorary doctorate and the prestigious Order of the Lion of St. Mark from Patriarch Theodoros II.Dr. Nicolaou's story is one of resilience, vision, and action. He reminds us that true health security is about more than infrastructure, it’s about people, policy, innovation, and partnerships with purpose.Guest Bio:Dr. Stavros Nicolaou is the Group Senior Executive at Aspen Pharmacare, responsible for Strategic Trade Development, and formerly CEO of Aspen’s Export Business. He is a globally recognized figure in public health, pharmaceutical development, and business leadership. With decades of service on national advisory boards, health taskforces, and global partnerships—including for GAVI, IFC, WHO, and B4SA—his influence spans from the lab to the boardroom to the policy arena.🌍 Connect with Dr. Nicolaou🔗 Aspen Pharmacare🔗 Learn more about Africa’s vaccine efforts via IFC

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Demetris Skourides, the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus, a visionary leader who is reshaping the country’s future and putting Cyprus on the global map of science, innovation, and AI.We explore his journey from a global career at Oracle and AWS to becoming the architect of Cyprus’s Vision 2035, where he now leads groundbreaking initiatives in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and space research. Demetris shares how he has built international bridges through AI diplomacy and partnerships with nations like the UAE, Japan, and Israel, proving that even a small country can have a big voice in global innovation.You’ll hear how he:✨ Repositioned Cyprus as a strategic innovation hub between Europe, the Middlle   East, and Asia✨ Launched CSPARK, the country’s first space research and innovation centre, in collaboration with NASA and COSPAR✨ Advocates for human-centric AI, ensuring technology serves people and not the other way around✨ Champions inclusive leadership, empowering women in science, technology, and entrepreneurship✨ Operates at what many call “unicorn speed” to turn vision into measurable national transformationRecognised as one of the Top 100 Global Power Leaders and honoured with the CYDIA Impact Award, Demetris embodies servant leadership with ethos, heart, and an unshakable commitment to building a better future for Cyprus and the world.Join us for a conversation that goes beyond science and technology, it’s about vision, leadership, and the power of innovation to transform societies. 🌍🚀

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I sit down with the multi-talented Laura-Stefania Efthimiou—accountant by profession, biophilic designer by passion, and the creative force behind Design With Moss.Laura shares her extraordinary story, from growing up in post-communist Romania after the loss of her father, to watching her mother courageously move to Cyprus to support the family. Her journey of strength, resilience, and reinvention takes us through marriage, relocation to Ireland, life in London, and ultimately finding a new beginning back in Cyprus—where her artistic soul truly came to life.🌿 In This Episode, We Explore:✨ How Laura turned a hobby into a thriving moss design brand👩‍👦 The bond she shares with her son, her biggest cheerleader and “moss ambassador”🎨 Her background in fine arts and accounting—and how both fuel her creativity and business🌱 The healing power of nature and the science behind biophilic design🌍 Her international life experience—from Romania to Ireland, London, and Cyprus🧘‍♀️ How her Moss Workshops create meaningful, mindful moments for families and individuals📺 Her pivotal live TV appearance that gave her the courage to go all-in on her creative dream💚 Why moss art is more than decor—it’s a return to calm, connection, and creative flow🧠 For Listeners Who Are:Passionate about nature, mindfulness, and creativityCurious about turning a side hustle into a soulful businessLooking for motherhood inspiration and balancing art with lifeInterested in how biophilic design enhances well-beingSearching for purpose after life transitions, breakups, or relocationsEager to explore creative entrepreneurship and design as a form of healing✨ About Laura-Stefania Efthimiou:Founder of Design With Moss, Laura-Stefania is a Romanian-born artist and accountant who now calls Cyprus home. With a Master's in Accounting and a deep love for art and nature, she fuses her talents to craft serene moss installations and lead therapeutic moss workshops across the island. Her mission? To inspire calm, connection, and creativity through the natural beauty of moss.https://www.designwithmoss.com/

In this episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by the extraordinary Viola Edward, a transcultural psychotherapist, award-winning mentor, conscious business consultant, and an unstoppable force for global empowerment.From escaping war-torn Lebanon at the age of 13 to becoming a leading voice in emotional resilience, conscious leadership, and breathwork, Viola's story is one of profound transformation and boundless compassion. Her journey is not just about survival, it’s about turning hardship into healing, and purpose into power.Viola is the co-founder and CEO of GRIT Academy, honorary president of Charity on Wheels – Fashion for a Cause, co-creator of BQ – Breath Intelligence, and the visionary behind the GRIT Method and Direction by Emotions. She is also the president of Global Mentoring Network, where she uplifts women, leaders, and changemakers through mentorship, education, and emotional empowerment. She is also a Creative Women Board Member.🌟 In This Episode, Viola Shares:🌍 Her incredible migration story from Lebanon to Venezuela and how it shaped her values💡 The life lessons that fueled her mission to help others heal, rise, and thrive🌀 The power of conscious breathing and how breathwork transformed her life👥 Why mentorship and emotional intelligence are vital tools for future leadership💼 Her work in holistic business consultancy and creating inclusive corporate cultures🧠 Why she believes emotional efficiency and healing modalities belong in every workplace📖 The passion behind authoring and co-authoring over 20 books on wellness and leadership❤️ Her philosophy: “Love, belief in humanity, and being action-oriented”🌱 Perfect For Listeners Who:Are navigating personal or professional transformationBelieve in the power of mentorship, breath, and gritWant to lead with heart, soul, and emotional intelligenceAre looking for ways to fuse healing with leadershipAre inspired by stories of global impact, resilience, and conscious entrepreneurship✨ About Viola Edward:An Iraqi born, Lebanese-childhood, Venezuela-raised, living in Cyprus changemaker, Viola Edward is a global speaker, serial entrepreneur, and soulful leader whose life mission is to serve humanity with love, breath, and purpose. She integrates breathwork, psychotherapy, and business strategy to help individuals and organizations evolve into their highest potential—sustainably and systemically.https://gritacademy.co/bq-en/https://gritacademy.co/bq-espanol/