George Danis: From Greek Poverty to American Success | Get Down To Business with Scott "Shalom" Klein

In a recent episode of Get Down to Business, host Shalom Klein had the pleasure of interviewing George Danis, an inspiring entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for democracy. Danis’ journey is nothing short of remarkable—rising from poverty in rural Greece, immigrating to the United States as an undocumented immigrant, and ultimately achieving incredible success in business and civic engagement. His new book, Go Far, Give Back, Live Greek, encapsulates the principles that have guided him through his life and career.

From Greece to the Land of Opportunity

Danis’ story is a testament to resilience and determination. He was born in a poor village in Greece, a country still reeling from war and occupation. Like many dreamers, he sought better opportunities, even when that meant taking risks. “It needs a lot of persistence and taking chances,” he shared. His first attempt to immigrate to the U.S. resulted in him being jailed, but that didn’t deter him. He kept trying until he finally made it to America, where he embraced the challenges of starting over in a new land.

Despite the obstacles, Danis persevered and built a successful career in business. However, his ambitions extended far beyond personal success—he was deeply committed to giving back to the country that had given him so much.

The Importance of American Manufacturing

One of the key themes in Danis’ book and advocacy work is the revival of American manufacturing. He warns against the dangers of outsourcing essential industries, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to remain self-sufficient. “If you don’t make anything and depend on other countries, it’s like your supermarket is across the ocean,” he explained.

Danis pointed out the economic and geopolitical risks of relying too heavily on foreign manufacturing. The COVID-19 pandemic, he noted, made it painfully clear how vulnerable supply chains can be. He believes that reinvesting in domestic production is essential for long-term stability and economic growth.

Balancing Capitalism and Democracy

While Danis is a firm believer in capitalism, he also stresses the importance of ensuring economic equity. He criticized the growing wage gap, where corporate executives earn exorbitant salaries while low-wage workers struggle to make ends meet. “The working people, the people earning low wages, should not be forgotten,” he said.

He called for systemic changes to create a more balanced economic structure—one where capitalism and democracy work hand in hand to uplift all citizens. “If we don’t do that, we’re going to lose out, as we already see in our political instability,” he warned.

Go Far, Give Back, Live Greek

The title of Danis’ book, Go Far, Give Back, Live Greek, holds deep personal meaning. It was inspired by his mother’s words when he first left home as a young man. She urged him to go far, to give back to those in need, and to always live as a good citizen—a principle he equates with the values of ancient Greek democracy.

Throughout his life, Danis has embodied these values. He has not only achieved great success but has also dedicated himself to philanthropy and civic engagement. He emphasized that democracy thrives when citizens actively participate in their communities and political systems.

A Legacy of Service and Success

Danis’ journey is a powerful example of the American Dream in action. He overcame significant challenges, built a successful business, and used his success to contribute to the betterment of society. His book serves as both a memoir and a guide, encouraging others to strive for success while remembering the importance of giving back and staying engaged in democracy.

For those interested in learning more about his story, Go Far, Give Back, Live Greek is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Danis’ inspiring words remind us all of the importance of perseverance, generosity, and civic responsibility.

George Danis’ story is a powerful reminder that with determination and a commitment to service, anyone can achieve success and make a lasting impact. His advocacy for manufacturing, economic equity, and democracy is a call to action for individuals and policymakers alike. His journey proves that no obstacle is insurmountable when one is driven by purpose and guided by strong values.

Listen to the original published interview here.