#224 - Mikaela Messiou - Awaken the Goddess within

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/

In this deeply moving and multifaceted episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I’m joined by Andreas Athinodorou—a man who bridges the world of high-level international finance and heartfelt community leadership.As the Founder and CEO of ATG Funds, Andreas brings over 30 years of international experience in corporate finance, global asset management, and investment structuring. But beyond the spreadsheets and boardrooms lies a soul deeply connected to Cyprus, its people, and its history.We talk about the story of the Kyrenia Nautical Club, originally based in Kyrenia until the Turkish invasion of 1974 forced its exile. In 1982, it was re-established in Limassol, where Andreas, an accountant with a spiritual heart, is helping shape its next chapter.Andreas shares the incredible initiatives of the club, including the annual 25-mile kayaking event from the Mari Naval Base to Limassol, honoring the fallen heroes of the Mari tragedy in 2011. With over 100 paddlers—young and old—this event represents far more than sport; it’s a powerful expression of remembrance, resilience, and unity.🌊 In This Episode, We Explore:🧭 Andreas’s journey from finance to philanthropy🏦 His international career in corporate finance and fund management🇨🇾 The historical legacy of the Kyrenia Nautical Club and its exile🚣 The club’s mission to empower youth through rowing, kayaking, and values🔥 The annual tribute to the Mari Naval Base heroes and the meaning behind it🌱 Plans for expanding accessibility, especially for paddlers in wheelchairs🌍 How the club fosters inclusion, courage, and connection—within Cyprus and beyond💡 Why sport is not just an activity, but a vehicle for freedom and collective memory✨ About Andreas Athinodorou:A seasoned financial professional and the CEO of ATG Funds, Andreas Athinodorou is also a passionate advocate for social responsibility, historical remembrance, and youth empowerment. With deep roots in Cyprus and a spiritual outlook on life, Andreas brings clarity, compassion, and conviction to every endeavor—whether he's advising clients or mentoring young athletes at sea.📌 Perfect for Listeners Who:Are inspired by stories of resilience, community, and historical remembranceWant to understand how finance and philanthropy can co-exist meaningfullyBelieve in the power of sports to unite, heal, and inspire future generationsAre curious about Cyprus’s rich history and its ongoing quest for justice and peaceTo find out more about the Kyrenia Nautical Club visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/canoenok or Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/kyrenia_canoe_n_kayak_team/You can read more about NOK’s work and how to contribute here: NOK Brochure 2025

In this forward-thinking episode of Most Memorable Journeys, I talk to the brilliant and multifaceted Andrew Coudounaris—a South African-born entrepreneur, innovator, and Co-Founder of Onyx Radio and Onyx Media Tech. Now based in Cyprus, Andrew brings a global perspective, a passion for media technology, and an unwavering drive to create meaningful, immersive experiences through sound and screen.We talk about his inspiring journey—from growing up in South Africa to building a home and business in Cyprus, and how his cultural background has influenced his entrepreneurial path. Andrew shares insights into the founding of Onyx Media Tech in 2012 and how it quickly evolved into a global player in the media innovation space.With divisions like Onyx-Glass, Onyx Screen Media, and the cutting-edge Onyx Radio, Andrew and his team are not just imagining the future—they're building it. Whether it's reshaping how we interact with retail environments, rethinking digital signage, or redefining music streaming, Andrew is leading a movement rooted in passion, creativity, and technology.🎧 In This Episode, We Talk About:🌍 Andrew’s journey from South Africa to Cyprus, and what home means to him today💡 The story behind Onyx Media Tech and its explosive global growth📻 How Onyx Radio is creating personalized, curated sound experiences🖥️ The power of interactive media and digital signage in today’s world🚀 The role of R&D and innovation in staying ahead in a fast-moving industry🎶 Why music, technology, and storytelling are more connected than ever💬 The importance of resilience, reinvention, and staying curious as a modern entrepreneur✨ About Andrew Coudounaris:Andrew Coudounaris is a tech visionary and entrepreneur with a passion for pushing boundaries. As Co-Founder of Onyx Radio and Onyx Media Tech, he has played a key role in delivering next-generation solutions to some of the world’s biggest brands. Known for his global mindset, creative approach, and ability to stay ahead of trends, Andrew’s work spans continents and industries, inspiring others to think bigger and bolder.📌 Perfect for Listeners Who:Love stories of innovation, entrepreneurship, and global transitionsAre curious about the intersection of technology, music, and mediaWant a behind-the-scenes look at building cutting-edge companiesAre ready to be inspired by someone who lives boldly and creates fearlessly🎧 Tune in and discover how Andrew Coudounaris is turning technology into art—and dreams into immersive digital realities.