In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Ersin Hussein, an ancient historian specialising in the material culture of ancient Cyprus, mainly in the Roman period. My ancient historical knowledge is pretty none existent, so it was so cool learning more about the importance of ancient Cypriot heritage and how our ancient ancestors are still influencing Cypriot culture and identity today.

We talk about the importance of celebrating Cyprus's often overlooked ancient past, honest and transparent ways to engage with museums and institutions, and why ancient history shouldn't be gatekept. This chat opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about our heritage. Our identity stretches far beyond the generations we personally know, and our ancient ancestors might teach us a thing or two about who we are.

Keep up to date with all episodes over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

In this episode, I am joined by actor, director and writer Sophia Vi. We deep dive into the state of trans rights, and Sophia shares the realities of what it's like living as a trans woman in the UK today. Sophia also reflects on how her journey of reclaiming her Cypriotness is rooted in her transness; and whilst sometimes conflicting, these identites can also exist in harmony.

Sophia is also the CEO of Koupepia Films, a production company dedicated to creating roles for actors who are too often typecast, pigeonholed, or overlooked. Her work focuses on developing short-form LGBTQ+ and diasporic stories rooted in joy — something she captures beautifully in Koupepia, a film that explores how food can create unlikely bonds and open the door to acceptance.

Keep up to date with this season and all other seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!

TW: this episode contains themes around violence and suicide that some listeners may find distressing.

UK helplines if you or someone you know needs support:

• Mindline Trans+: National helpline for trans, nonbinary, agender, and genderfluid people as well as friends and family.

• Mermaids helpline and web chat for trans people under the age of 20 and their parents.

• Gendered Intelligence support line for trans adults (18+) impacted by gender healthcare waiting lists. Also open to friends, family, and professionals.

• Galop helpline and web chat for LGBT+ people experiencing abuse or violence.

• Switchboard: National LGBTQ+ helpline.

In this episode, I am joined by teacher and poet, Maria-Sophia Christodoulou. Her debut poetry collection, A Disbelief of Flesh, was published in 2022 with Out-Spoken Press. It's a poignant exploration of grief and connection with the roots of the self. There's so much in Maria's work that can be resonated with, and her intrsopective approach to understanding heritage is both refreshing and human.

Being Cypriot can sometimes be frustrating and difficult, something Maria isn't afraid to admit; but despite the internal battles, pride in her Cypriot identity is strong. As Maria says, the Cypriot people are what makes us, and we are stronger together.

Keep up to date with this season and all previous seasons over on Instagram @roottovinepod, and don't forget to leave a rating/review wherever you're listening!