Name: Despina Gianopulos Landers
Lives in: Los Angeles, California, USA, but after 26 years of living here I still feel like a New Yorker at heart.
From: I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and on the North Fork of Long Island.
Occupation: My current job is co-producing retreats on the Greek island of Andros. I had an amazing career marketing magazines and television shows. Then I took time off to raise our daughter, Sophia, who will be going to college in 2024. It feels like the right time to begin a new chapter!
Tell us your first three jobs (ever!):
My first job was babysitting for a family who lived near me during high school.
My second job was working during the weekends at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel gift shop in New York City. My third job began after my first year of college at a shipping company owned by my brother’s godfather. There were only two women working there at the time. The rest of the team were all men who were friends of my father’s. I learned a lot that summer!
Zodiac sign: Sun Sign: Aquarius. Rising Sign: Virgo Moon in Cancer
Enneagram type:
I am a number 1 (but I think I also relate to elements of Type 3)
What do you love about Greece?
I love the spirit of Greece and the overwhelming feeling of history. I love the food, the language, the sea, the people, the laughter, the cobble stoned streets, the beaches, the weather, the monuments and the deep connection to my ancestors. I feel a strong bond to the country and feel like I belong there. I did a 23andme test two years ago and my ancestry was 98% Greek and 2 % Italian. That wasn’t surprising! Now that I am working on projects in Greece I am able to visit more often.
Tell us something most people don’t know about you:
My first language was Greek! And not everyone knows I lived in Paris for two years, and speak French fluently.
First time you tried Kundalini Yoga?
In 1997 when I moved to Los Angeles, with friends from the office.
Tell us your top tip to combat climate change:
I have a hybrid car, I walk a lot and don’t drive as much as I used to.
I buy organic products, recycle, and turn off the lights and heat as often as possible
Anything else you’d like us to know?:
I am very excited about a new venture I have embarked upon with two dear friends: www. oliveandloveretreats.com combines many of my passions for Greek culture, marketing, events and travel — all key components of my professional and personal life.