Advertise on podcast: ACS Athens Owlcast

In the latest Owlcast episode, we sit down with members of the organizing team and visionary panelists of the ACS Athens Career Day 2026 on Maritime industry—Katerina Stathopoulou, Daniel Tadros, and Lydia Skampavia—to reflect on a day that may have redefined the horizon for over 400 ACS Athens students. From the high-tech reality of modern vessels as "traveling data centers" to the sobering fact that shipping sustains 90% of global life, our guests share their personal reflections on the "maritime spark" they witnessed in the classroom. This discussion revisits the value of an international education, the myth of the "single career path," and why the maritime industry is a safe harbor for every talent, ultimately urging the next generation to cultivate their own "street smarts" and find their way to the bridge.

What does it mean to leave a legacy before you’ve even graduated? For the students of the ACS Athens Global Alumni Student Team, it’s about much more than just titles or bullet points on a résumé. It’s about the quiet magic of building bridges.  Mainly composed of juniors from the Class of 2027, these students aren't just volunteers; they are the heart of our community. Between the heavy demands of IB exams and late-night study sessions, they choose to give their time back to the school they love. Whether they are organizing a glamorous gala, leading a campus tour for a graduate returning after forty years, or simply selling pizza to fund a peer’s scholarship, their "why" is simple: they believe that once you’re part of ACS Athens, you’re part of a family for life. In this week’s Owlcast, co-hosted by Alumni Outreach Coordinator Lydia Skampavia, we sit down with six of these remarkable young leaders: Sotoris, Amaryllis, Michael, Oskar, Katerina, and Daphne. Join us as we explore the passion, the "why," and the shared purpose that drives them to serve the global ACS Athens community.

This week, we dive into the inspiring world of action research, performance, and conscious citizenship at ACS Athens. Join us as Dr. Evan Syropoulos and Ms. Sofia Thanopoulou share how a decade of creative collaboration has shaped their work—from classroom innovations to international conferences and a new performance now running in Athens. Discover how empathy, dialogue, and reflective teaching come together to form the unique Inquiry & Performance Learning Model (IPLM), and get a sneak peek into what’s coming at this year’s Colloquium—a true celebration of learning across our community. Be inspired by the passion, purpose, and vision behind the educators guiding our students toward global consciousness, and learn how and why: The Colloquium is a “celebration of learning”—a public showcase of years of action research, reflective practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The IPLM (Inquiry & Performance Learning Model) blends performance, Socratic dialogue, and reflective processes to cultivate empathy and conscious citizenship in students. Collaboration is central: teachers across departments contribute ideas, feedback, and perspectives that continually reshape the research and classroom projects. Action research is fluid and iterative, with plans constantly evolving as teachers respond to student energy, new insights, and emerging directions in their work.

JUST DROPPED! This week on Owlcast, student host Margarita Vryoni and Economics faculty Ms. Dadidou welcome a powerhouse panel of ACS Athens alumni who returned to mentor the senior class!  At the 4th Annual ACS Athens Global Alumni Insights Session, we hear our alums' bold advice on navigating life after graduation, finding your passion, embracing failure, and making courageous choices. Their message? Believe in yourself! Use your time wisely! Your ACS Athens community always has your back! Tune in and get inspired by the energy, honesty, and global spirit of our alumni community!

Welcome to Owlcast, where stories take flight! Today’s episode brings a special guest back home — literally. Children’s author John Danakas returned to ACS Athens, the very school where he once studied as a young student in grades 4 and 5, to meet today’s third and fourth graders. His visit sparked laughter, curiosity, and memories as he shared stories from his books — and from his own childhood walking the same halls. “It was emotional,” he said, recalling his bus rides to school decades ago. For Danakas, meeting his readers face-to-face was more than a visit; it was a joyful full-circle moment. In this conversation we are joined by Early Childhood Coordinator Sophia Moros, where John takes us behind the scenes of his writing — how sports, friendship, and identity weave their way into his stories. Whether it’s a soccer field showdown or a diner in a small town, his characters face challenges that mirror real life: learning to belong, to be recognized, and to discover who they are. He reminded us that every child’s story matters — and that even the smallest details, like a student describing a summer trip, can reveal the heart of a future writer. His books, from Curveball to Lizzy’s Soccer Showdown, celebrate teamwork, courage, and the thrill of discovery.

Welcome back to Owlcast! We’re opening our fifth season with a very special guest—the President of ACS Athens—who joins us to reflect on the milestones shaping this academic year. From the school’s 80th anniversary to the second Colloquium of the Sustaining Excellence accreditation journey, we explore how tradition and innovation converge to shape a vision for the future. In this episode, we explore what it means to honor legacy while embracing change—through global citizenship, responsible AI learning, and a holistic approach to education that prepares students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. It’s an inspiring conversation that sets the tone for a year of growth, reflection, and discovery at ACS Athens.

What happens when former ACS Athens students return to their alma mater — not just to look back, but to light the way forward? In this special episode of Owlcast, we bring together a dynamic group of ACS Athens alumni for a candid, heartfelt conversation with today’s students. From facing the unknown after graduation to navigating unexpected career turns, our guests share the real, unfiltered stories behind their professional and personal journeys. Spoiler: the path to purpose isn’t always straight — and that’s what makes it powerful. As they reflect on their time at ACS Athens and their participation in this year's Alumni Insights session, these alumni offer more than advice — they offer perspective, connection, and a reassuring sense that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Whether you're dreaming big, doubting yourself, or just curious about what life looks like beyond high school, this episode is a must-listen. It’s authentic, funny, at times emotional — and full of wisdom you won’t find in any textbook.

In this Owlcast episode, we host Dr. Peter Papageorgiou—ACS Athens Class of ’93—whose path from a passionate IB student to a pioneering medical consultant and entrepreneur unfolds in unexpected ways. With stories of senior skip days in Mykonos and Theory of Knowledge reflections that later shaped his pitch for multi-million-dollar research grants, Peter’s journey is anything but ordinary. Dr. Papageorgiou talks about his groundbreaking research on blood pressure regulation, the realities of medical entrepreneurship, and how collaboration, creativity, and resilience define success in the business of healthcare. But his story goes further—beyond the lab and boardroom—to initiatives in civil discourse, policy debate, and global alumni engagement.

Welcome to Owlcast! Today, we host Christian Talbot, Chief Executive Officer of the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. Christian is someone who understands schools not just from the outside, but from within—through the lens of vision, mission, and impact. As the head of one of the most respected accreditation bodies for American and international schools, his work shapes how institutions like ACS Athens define, evaluate, and continuously improve themselves. Today’s conversation goes beyond protocol and paperwork—it’s about values, trust, and the power of intentional education. We begin by exploring the mission of MSA and why accreditation is not simply a regulatory obligation but a cornerstone for a school’s credibility, growth, and long-term sustainability.

At ACS Athens, the Optimal Learning Program (OLP) is built on a simple but powerful belief: every child learns differently. Coordinator Evi Evloyia who leads the OLP, brings that message to life every day with her team of specialists, teachers, and administrators. “Every brain is unique,” she says—and everything they do stems from that idea. In a diverse school environment like ACS Athens, students come from different countries, speak different languages at home, and have varied academic backgrounds. To meet their learning needs, the OLP takes a thoughtful, personalized approach. It starts with getting to know each student well. As Ms. Evloyia explains, a lot of time is dedicated inside and outside the classroom, observing students academically and socially. These insights are turned into learning profiles that guide every teacher who works with the child.

Welcome to this special episode of “Owlcast,” where we spotlight a powerful journey of empathy and inclusion led by ACS Athens middle school students. What began with a Disability Awareness Day in December—featuring Paralympic sports, guide dogs, and inspiring speakers—grew into a transformative, three-phase project with real-world impact. Students visited local centers, built relationships, and came away with a deeper understanding of ability, dignity, and community. Now, they’re gearing up for the grand finale: the 24-hour Swimathon on May 9–10. Join us as we explore how awareness turns into action—one story, one step, and one stroke at a time.

In today's President’s edition, hosted by Dr. Peggy Pelonis, we talk about the cutting edge of science, education, and innovation. Dr. Pelonis welcomes a very special guest: Dr. Meenakshi Wadhwa, a celebrated astrophysicist, planetary scientist, and educator whose work has deepened our understanding of the solar system and our place within it. The President of ACS Athens discusses with Dr. Wadhwa: Growing Curiosity: Dr. Wadhwa’s scientific journey began with a sense of wonder in the foothills of the Himalayas, proving that innate curiosity can spark a lifelong passion for discovery. Planetary Science Exploration: Her transition from geology to researching meteorites and isotopes highlights how interconnected scientific fields can shed light on the formation and evolution of our solar system. Antarctic Adventures: Hunting for meteorites in the harsh conditions of Antarctica underscores the thrill of fieldwork and the vital collaboration needed to uncover rare cosmic treasures. Mars Sample Return Mission: As the Principal Scientist, Dr. Wadhwa plays a pivotal role in one of NASA’s most ambitious endeavors—collecting and returning Martian rocks to Earth for deeper study. Championing Diversity: From mentoring future scientists to advocating for broader representation in STEM, Dr. Wadhwa emphasizes the power of opportunity and the importance of engaging all voices in scientific research. ...and much more!

If you missed, now you can listen to it!  The 80th Anniversary Gala of ACS Athens was an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, reflection, and celebration, held at the iconic and festively lit Grand Bretagne Hotel in central Athens, on Valentine’s Day. After opening remarks from President Dr. Peggy Pelonis, Board of Trustees Chair Pascal Apostolides, and U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Maria Olson, the spotlight turned to alumni who have made a global impact. Award-winning filmmaker Alexander Payne delivered a powerful message on nurturing creativity, while NASA astronaut Dr. Scott Parazynski reflected on how ACS teachers helped him believe in himself—lessons that took him from the basketball court to space. Honorees Charles Eliot (’74), George Petropoulos (’97), and Hollywood producer Mark Wolper shared their heartfelt gratitude for how ACS Athens shaped their journeys, from pioneering software development to leading humanitarian missions and producing award-winning films. The night closed with a deep sense of camaraderie and pride, as generations of ACS alumni came together to honor the school’s enduring legacy—one that will continue to inspire and uplift future global leaders for decades to come.

In this special alumni edition of Owlcast, we welcome Pandora Bethea, a distinguished alumna of ACS Athens and a celebrated author and poet. Reflecting on her years at ACS during a time of cultural and historical significance, Pandora shares how her experiences at the school and the guidance of inspiring teachers like Mrs. Priles fueled her passion for literature and poetry. Highlighting the transformative power of storytelling and self-expression, she emphasizes the importance of creativity as a vital force that connects humanity and enriches our lives. As ACS Athens celebrates its 80th anniversary, Pandora’s reflections serve as a heartfelt reminder of the enduring relevance of art and literature in education and community life. Through her words, she inspires students to embrace their unique voices and explore their creativity, reinforcing that the written word remains one of humanity’s most powerful tools. Join us as we delve into her journey, the influence of her alma mater, and her message for the next generation of writers and artists.

Welcome to a special Art & Literature edition of the Owlcast, with virtual sights and sounds from the vibrant 1st Annual ACS Athens Artists & Authors Spotlight, aptly titled "Introspective Dialogues: A Journey Through Visual and Literary Narratives." The Spotlight was organized by the Office of Development and the ACS Athens Global Alumni community on December 16 to 20 and was hosted at the lobby of our Theater. The art and literature exhibition hosted works of our Alumni and members of our community. Although an audio piece cannot possibly do justice to a highly visual event, it is always a good exercise of our imagination when we listen to the creators themselves trying to make their works audible. So let’s picture the ACS Athens campus in the cold December evening at the opening of the Spotlight. Students playing music on guitar and the grand piano, classical music in the background, and the air of creativity inviting guests who gather to celebrate the creative talents within the community. The exhibition space buzzes with excitement, walls adorned with a kaleidoscope of artworks, each piece telling its own unique story.