We are thrilled to feature Lauren Braun-Strumfels, the brilliant author of "Partners in Gatekeeping," who shares her fascinating journey into Italian culture and immigration. Together, we uncover the allure and complexity of Italian culture, drawing parallels to Lauren's personal experiences and discussing cultural obsessions that shape our lives. From Arthur Schwartz's Neapolitan cooking to Jhumpa Lahiri's insights, this conversation is rich with reflections on the continuous pull towards understanding and integrating with Italian heritage. Our episode takes a deep dive into the history of Italian American communities in the American South, particularly New Orleans. Discover the significant role of port cities in Italian migration and the challenges faced by immigrants as they navigated socio-political dynamics and racial tensions. We also touch on the Italian government's efforts in managing immigration and maintaining cultural connections for Italian children born abroad. Through historical narratives and personal reflections, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the Italian American experience and the enduring impact of Italian culture on both sides of the Atlantic.

Join us for an entertaining and heartfelt episode of the Italian American Podcast as John Viola, Patrick O'Boyle, and special guest Mark Rotella bring you into the heart of Little Italy from their newly set up studio. Listen in as we banter everything from mismatched attire to the nostalgia of simpler times when we enjoyed French pastries during recordings. Despite the challenges, we preview upcoming guest segments and maintain our unique blend of humor and Italian American culture.

In this episode, we explore the evolution of Italian American food culture and the significant impact of globalization on traditional Italian and Italian American cuisine. We share personal anecdotes about the cultural importance of red sauce restaurants and highlight efforts to document and celebrate this culinary heritage through a new documentary series. The conversation transitions into the Italian American Foodways Project, which aims to trace the history of Italian cuisine in America and foster connections through communal dining experiences. We emphasize the importance of authenticity and reflect on the critical nature of Italian culture.

The journey continues as we delve into Italian American cultural artifacts and the influence of Italian and Italian American artists from the 1950s to the 1960s. The discussion covers the rich cultural insights from translating Lou Monte's songs and the crossover impact of entertainers like Perry Como and Dean Martin. Wrapping up, we explore the creative process behind our Italian American Christmas music projects and the fluid nature of identity, especially for the next generation of Italian Americans. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for Italian American heritage.

What ancient Italian remedy could save you from your next cold, and which family superstition might just predict your next visitor? Join us on a nostalgic journey through the rich tapestry of Italian traditions and remedies as we continue part 2 of this discussion with Zia Rosa! In this episode we learn heartfelt stories and cultural practices passed down through generations between Pat, John and Zia Rosa. This episode begins with vivid recollections of childhood memories, like using egg whites and salt to reduce swelling, and crafting chamomile and Malvasia flower teas for respiratory ailments. We also explore charming rituals such as collecting chamomile on Ascension Thursday and using lavender like flowers to perfume clothes, celebrating the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our Italian ancestors.

Listen and watch as we recount personal anecdotes that shed light on both the dangers and the wisdom of traditional Italian remedies. We discuss the sometimes desperate measures people take when modern medicine is simply not present.

Prepare to be entertained and enlightened as we dive into the quirks and superstitions that define Italian American family traditions. From the historical intrigue behind wool bathing suits and Mussolini's drawstring underwear to the meticulous preparation of traditional dishes like scalcione, we capture the essence of Italian heritage. Our tales of travel traditions, the evolution of pasta making, and the resilience of our ancestors in the face of hardships offer a heartfelt appreciation of Italian culture and its enduring legacy in our lives today. Join us for this enriching episode that celebrates the wisdom, humor, and enduring spirit of our Italian ancestors as we close our discussion with Zia Rosa