Rosa Ecru Suit by Sebastian Couture
Fine Merino Wool Crewneck Sweater by Brooks Brothers

Anastasios Mikroulis, widely known as Taso, is the co-founder and the Director of Operations for both the acclaimed Aion Aesthetics Boutique and Ideal Health Centers of NYC. Beyond his entrepreneurial role, Taso is a versatile talent in the acting world, known for his compelling portrayal of Randall in “The Nana Project” and as Young Billy Shakes in the popular TV show "Harlan Coben’s: Shelter," roles that have garnered him praise and admiration. His dedication to health and wellness has been transformative, guiding individuals in their weight loss and management journeys. Taso's multifaceted expertise, combined with his passion for helping others, has established his reputation as a leading figure in both the aesthetics and coaching sectors. His contributions continue to inspire and uplift those around him, making him an invaluable asset in his industries.

Classic Fit Stretch Wool Pinstripe 1818 Suit and
Stretch Supima® Cotton Non-Iron Twill Ainsley Collar Dress Shirt
by Brooks Brothers

Taso, your journey began with a significant accolade, the Artistic Achievement Award, from the American College of Greece. How did this award shape your early career, and what did it mean to you at the time?
Receiving the Artistic Achievement Award was a monumental moment for me. It was a validation of my passion and dedication to the arts. This recognition not only boosted my confidence but also propelled me towards pursuing my dreams with vigor. It symbolized a commitment to excellence that I have carried with me throughout my career, whether on stage, on-screen, or in my entrepreneurial ventures. It led to being the student speaker at graduation, which is a moment I’ll never forget.

You've had the honor of working with industry icons like Oscar winner Mercedes Reuhl, director Robin Givens, and Grease Legend Didi Conn. As an emerging talent in Hollywood, how have these experiences influenced your acting approach?
Working alongside such esteemed talents was incredibly enlightening. Each of them brought unique perspectives and methods to the table, allowing me to play with improv, freedom to share ideas, and finding a performance outcome satisfactory for a final cut. Didi is such a beautiful soul and playful individual. We shared a scene directed by Director Deborah Kampmeier whom I respect and hope to work with again in the future. I love her creative mind.

Speaking of your acting career, can you tell us more about your upcoming feature film project with Carl Moellenberg for Dominium Pictures?
I’m thrilled about this upcoming project with my dear friend and colleague, Carl. He has been someone in the industry who has believed immensely in me since day one and we finally have the opportunity to work together in a capacity we’ve been hoping for, for years. We’re very early in the stages of pre-production so I cannot say anything past that it will be a fulfilling role.

Turtleneck Sweater by Theory
Pants by Brooks Brothers

Transitioning from acting to entrepreneurship, you founded Ideal Health 10 years ago. What inspired you to start this venture, and how does it feel to have positively impacted thousands in New York City?
The inspiration for Ideal Health stemmed from a deep-seated desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Witnessing the transformative journey of thousands in New York City has been both humbling and fulfilling. It's gratifying to know that through Ideal Health, I've been able to motivate and support so many on their path to wellness and healthier living. I’ve been able to use my craft as an actor to understand my clients on a human level to help them achieve their goals. The rough New York experience forced me to take the dive and open up my own company.

Alongside Ideal Health, you also co-founded Aion Aesthetics. What motivated this venture, and how does it complement your passion for health and wellness?
I rented a small room in a doctor's office in the UES, started out with two clients, and a lot of drive. Now I own two successful medical weight loss centers and an aesthetic beauty clinic in my favorite city in the world and have two more ideas I’m working on for the near future.

Aion Aesthetics was born out of a vision to extend the realm of wellness beyond traditional boundaries. With my partner, Dr. Akis Ntonos, we aimed to create a boutique that not only addressed aesthetic needs but also enhanced overall well-being. It's a venture where my passion for health, beauty, and personal care converges. I’ve always been interested in the world of aesthetics but working in sales my whole life, it was a no brainer. My partner and I are such an incredible team together and this was the natural next step in growth.

You've lived the quintessential New York life, moving through 20 different apartments in your early years. How did this experience shape you, both personally and professionally?
The New York hustle is real and living through it has been a journey of resilience, adaptation, and growth. After moving here from Greece to ‘start over’, I went from sleeping on floors, to couches, and sublets until I found my footing. I even slept on the train one night because I didn’t have a place to stay between housing transitions. It taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of hard work, and the art of bouncing back and that sometimes you can only rely on yourself in the moment. These experiences have imprinted a sense of grit and determination in both my personal and professional life. The biggest lesson I learned was that no one can hold you down. Only yourself.

Your love for musical theater and being on stage is evident. How does performing live compare to acting on screen for you?
Oh, live theater is like a jolt of electricity every time. You're out there, the lights hit, and bam – it’s showtime. You've got the audience right there with you; their energy is almost tangible. You ride that wave of immediate reactions – laughter, gasps, silence – it’s all happening in real- time. And the connection with fellow actors on stage is like a high-wire act without a net, thrilling and raw.

Now, acting on screen, that's a whole different ball game. It’s like painting with fine brushes, where every little detail counts. Don’t get me wrong, it's got its own magic, but it's more about that internal journey, you know? On stage, though, it's the rush, the spontaneity – it's addictive. There’s nothing like it – it’s live, it's real, it's now. Being on stage is the best therapy and the best way to understand yourself and others on a raw, human emotional level.

Can you share more about your training and how it has influenced your approach to acting and entrepreneurship?
My journey in training has been incredibly diverse and enriching, each step adding a layer to my craft. I started with a solid foundation, earning a BA in Communications, which was crucial for understanding storytelling and audience engagement. This academic background was my springboard into more specialized training.

Then, diving into acting, I studied Master Class Scene Study under the legendary Olympia Dukakis in New York. Her wisdom was invaluable, teaching me the subtleties of character development and emotional authenticity. At the Beverly Hills Playhouse, I learned the Milton Katselas technique, which brought a new perspective to scene work. It wasn't just about acting; it was about understanding the depth of human emotions and motivations.

Furthering my skills, I attended Haymarket Annex II for masterclass for both intensive scene study and acting for TV and Film master class for years. These experiences honed my ability to adapt to different styles and demands of performance, whether on stage or on screen.

This extensive training has profoundly influenced not just my acting but also my entrepreneurial spirit. In business, like in acting, it's about connection, empathy, and delivering an experience that resonates. My background in communications, combined with my diverse acting training, has given me a unique perspective on how to engage and inspire people, whether they are an audience or clients in my businesses. It's this blend of academic knowledge and practical skills that has shaped my approach in both the arts and entrepreneurship.

With such a diverse and accomplished background, what would you say is your key driving force?
My driving force has always been my passion for creating and connecting. Whether it's through acting, where I bring characters to life, or through my businesses, where I help people achieve their wellness and aesthetic goals, it's all about making a positive impact. This drive to create meaningful, enriching experiences is what motivates me every day. When I’m acting I’m living.

Looking at your journey, what advice would you give to someone aspiring to a career in acting or entrepreneurship?
My advice would be to follow your passion relentlessly and be open to learning at every step. The path to success in any field is paved with perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to adapt. Whether in acting or entrepreneurship, it's important to stay true to your vision, but also be flexible enough to navigate the inevitable challenges and changes. When they say “no,” you laugh and keep going until you find your people. Odds are you’ll find that special someone who says ”yes” that can make all the difference.

With such a rich tapestry of experiences, what’s next for Taso Mikroulis? Are there any new ventures or projects that excite you?
The future is an exciting canvas. I'm looking forward to continuing my growth as an actor, particularly with upcoming projects. I have a few passionate shorts and a feature on the horizon. Now that the strike is over I’m just excited to audition again. On the entrepreneurial front, I'm constantly exploring innovative ways to expand Ideal Health and Aion Aesthetics. I’m also excited about the new app I’m building.

You received the Best Actor award for "The Weekend" at the Grove Film Festival, and your roles as co-producer and co-writer were pivotal. Can you elaborate on your experience working on this project, particularly with the improvisational elements?
"The Weekend" was a remarkable project that allowed me to blend my creative instincts as an actor, producer, and writer. Working closely with the talented Dennis Cahlo, we embraced the art of improvisation, which added an authentic and spontaneous layer to the storytelling. It was based on a true story about addiction and really struck the chord of many in the audience who have struggled with or lost someone to addiction. I really wanted Dennis to have his vision come to fruition. Receiving the Best Actor award was a humbling acknowledgment of this collaborative and creative effort. It's these kinds of multidimensional roles and projects that truly ignite my passion for filmmaking. Indie work has some really special moments. Shoutout to my co-star Danielle Guldin, who really made this short film extra special.

With the SAG/AFTRA strike coming to an end, please share your thoughts on the importance of these unions and your gratitude towards them, including AEA?
As a proud member of SAG/AFTRA and AEA, I cannot overstate the importance of these unions in advocating for actors' rights. The current strike underscores the crucial role these organizations play in ensuring fair treatment, compensation, and working conditions for artists. My gratitude towards these unions is immense; they stand as a testament to the power of collective action in facing industry challenges. Being a part of these unions not only offers a sense of security but also a sense of belonging to a community that values and respects art and its creators.

Throughout your acting career, you've portrayed a variety of characters. What types of roles do you find most fulfilling as a character actor?
As a character actor, I'm drawn to roles that are layered and complex, those that challenge me and allow me to explore different facets of human nature. I particularly enjoy playing characters who have a significant arc or those that offer a glimpse into the human psyche in unexpected ways. Playing the antagonist or morally ambiguous characters is especially intriguing as they often have the most interesting backstories and motivations. It's the depth and intricacy of these roles that truly captivate me, allowing me to delve deep into the art of storytelling and character portrayal. If it’s difficult to defend a particular character’s moral compass, that’s the character I want to dissect.

Instagram: @taso.nyc

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer: Mike Ruiz
Talent: Taso Mikroulis
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair and Makeup by Luis Guillermo using Oribe and MAKE UP FOR EVER
Fashion Stylist Interns: Richelle Hodson, Hannah Bressler, David Tongi, Madison Cannella
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Kaelyn Mazyck, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
RADAR Created by Ayoka Lucas

RADAR: Taso Mikroulis