Stavvy's World – Episode #131: Steph Tolev

Release Date: June 2, 2025
Host: Stavros Halkias
Guest: Steph Tolev

Introduction

In Episode #131 of Stavvy's World, host Stavros Halkias welcomes comedian and actress Steph Tolev for an engaging and candid conversation. The episode delves into Steph's cultural heritage, her experiences in the entertainment industry, personal relationships, and struggles with self-image and mortality. Amidst their lively banter, they also address listener inquiries, offering heartfelt advice and humor.

Steph Tolev’s Heritage and Personal Background

The episode kicks off with Steph Tolev sharing insights into her diverse cultural background.
Steph (00:58): “I’m most Bulgarian, but I’m also part Greek, so this is...”
Steph humorously connects her appearance to historical Greek propaganda, sparking a lighthearted discussion about her ancestry.
Stavros (01:04): “I recognize your face from Greek Revolutionary War propaganda... Vanquish the Turks.”

Discussion on Baptism and Greek Cultural Rituals

Stavros and Steph transition into a conversation about baptism traditions within Greek culture. They reminisce about childhood experiences and the significance of baptism as a godfather.
Stavros (02:09): “The baptism is awesome because you have to... dunk a baby.”
Steph (03:44): “It feels like there's a gust of wind coming out. You're vanquishing a demon.”

The dialogue highlights their humorous yet respectful take on cultural rituals and the blending of personal beliefs with tradition.

Comedy and Professional Life

Steph shares her journey in the comedy scene, discussing her roles and experiences on various shows.
Steph (06:53): “We have Happy Gilmore on the way.”
They dive into her participation in the AVN Awards, where Steph recounts a memorable encounter with Ryan Powell and her comedic performance.
Steph (09:05): “It was amazing. The men here... I opened on being like, wow, this is the only room in Las Vegas right now with no STDs.”

Stavros admires Steph's ability to tailor her humor to different audiences, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in comedy.
Stavros (09:57): “You just have to do whatever you want, whenever you want.”

Relationships and Sexuality

A significant portion of the episode explores the complexities of romantic relationships and differing sexual drives.
Steph (23:21): “I cry every night. It’s so demented.”
Stavros (34:38): “Jesus Christ, I can’t fathom it.”

They candidly discuss personal insecurities, body positivity, and the challenges of maintaining intimacy.
Steph (19:51): “It’s the final hurdle to accept even little dicks as aesthetic beauty.”

Their honest dialogue sheds light on societal pressures and the importance of self-acceptance within relationships.

Weight Loss Journey

Both hosts touch upon their personal battles with weight, highlighting the impact on their health and self-esteem.
Steph (30:26): “I lost 35 pounds, and it’s hard to keep it off.”
Stavros (60:22): “I g. I gained 20 pounds back in the middle of tires.”

They discuss the balance between maintaining physical health and the temptations of an entertainment-centric lifestyle.
Steph (31:33): “No drinking. And I... I've been really hitting it.”

Listener Q&A: Relationships and Personal Issues

Towards the end of the episode, Stavros and Steph address listener voicemails, offering advice on relationship dynamics and personal growth.

1. Caller D – Navigating Different Sex Drives (70:06):
   A listener seeks advice on balancing differing sexual desires after deciding to move in together.
   Stavros (75:39): “Keep everything we said in mind. Think critically about whether you are truly getting your needs met.”

2. Caller E – Accelerating Marriage Timelines (78:22):
   Another listener contemplates whether her partner is pressuring her to marry due to external pressures, such as living with conservative parents.
   Steph (85:11): “Suck her STD free right now. Get her out of your house.”

3. Caller F – Making Friends in a New Environment (86:06):
   A listener struggles with making friends after relocating from the East Coast to California, seeking strategies to build meaningful connections.
   Steph (89:20): “Maybe try that if you want that.”

4. Offbeat Ads and Fun Banter:
   Throughout the Q&A, Stavros and Steph maintain their signature humor, occasionally interjecting playful remarks and comments about their own lives, keeping the tone light-hearted and relatable.

Conclusion

Episode #131 of Stavvy's World offers a blend of humor, heartfelt conversation, and practical advice. Stavros Halkias and Steph Tolev navigate personal topics with openness and wit, creating an engaging listening experience for audiences seeking both entertainment and genuine discourse. The episode underscores the importance of cultural heritage, self-acceptance, and effective communication in personal relationships.

Notable Quotes:

• Stavros (03:44): “It feels like there's a gust of wind coming out. You're vanquishing a demon.”
• Steph (19:51): “It’s the final hurdle to accept even little dicks as aesthetic beauty.”
• Stavros (75:39): “Keep everything we said in mind. Think critically about whether you are truly getting your needs met.”
• Steph (85:11): “Suck her STD free right now. Get her out of your house.”

Timestamps:

• 00:58: Introduction of Steph Tolev’s heritage.
• 02:09: Discussion on baptism rituals.
• 09:05: Steph recounts AVN Awards experience.
• 19:51: Conversation on body positivity.
• 30:26: Steph discusses her weight loss journey.
• 70:06: Listener Caller D’s question.
• 78:22: Listener Caller E’s question.
• 86:06: Listener Caller F’s question.

Final Thoughts:

Stavvy's World continues to deliver insightful and entertaining content, with Episode #131 showcasing the dynamic chemistry between Stavros Halkias and Steph Tolev. Their ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader societal issues makes for a compelling and relatable podcast episode.