Join us as we bring you a heartwarming conversation with Christina Conte, the culinary genius behind "Christina's Cucina." Christina's journey from a children's social worker in Scotland to a beloved food blogger in California is nothing short of inspirational. Discover how a simple nudge from friends led her to create a blog that now resonates with food enthusiasts worldwide. We'll explore the transformative power of the pandemic on home cooking and Christina's unique insights into the rich tapestry of Italian American traditions, even in the most unexpected places. In our deeper dive, Christina shares her thoughts on the crucial role of authenticity in the food industry. Ever been frustrated by a recipe that didn't turn out as promised? Christina speaks candidly about the pitfalls of fake recipes and the misuse of stock photos, advocating for genuine ingredients and user-generated content. She also offers a poignant look at the Italian communities' experiences across the globe, from the British Isles to Australia, and how their connections to Italy shape their culinary traditions and family dynamics. Tune in for a feast of stories, tips, and the importance of keeping it real in the kitchen.

Join us for an engaging and heartfelt journey through Italian American heritage and filmmaking. We were lucky to have this fascinating discussion with filmmakers Mary Lou and Jerome Bongiorno. In this podcast, they each shared their rich Italian roots, tracing back to the Veneto region and connections to Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." The conversation also explores the distinct Italian communities within Newark, New Jersey, and their cultural nuances.

Most importantly though this conversation navigates the world of Italian cinema and its profound cultural impact. Reflecting on the Newark Riots Rebellion of 1967, the discussion shifts to the brilliance of legendary Italian filmmakers like Federico Fellini, Antonioni, Rossellini, and Pasolini. Their works continue to inspire and shape contemporary cinema. The conversation also touches on the humanity of canonized saints, such as Elizabeth Ann Seton and Mother Cabrini, shedding light on their personal struggles and remarkable achievements.

In the final chapters, we explore family secrets and cultural expectations, examining how societal pressures shaped personal histories, particularly among the World War I and II generations. The conversation shifts to the impact of family dynamics in Italian-American filmmaking, focusing on Martin Scorsese's relationship with his mother, Catherine. We discuss the broader significance of authentic representation in Italian-American media, moving beyond stereotypical portrayals to highlight diverse stories and achievements. Finally, we share insights from our recent filming experience in Sicily, capturing the evolving landscape of Italian society through unique narratives. Join us for this rich tapestry of stories, culture, and history.

Discover the untold stories and rich heritage of Italian American baseball as we welcome Joe Quagliano, Chris Vaccaro, and Carmine Gangone from the Italian American Baseball Foundation. You'll learn how the foundation is creating a vibrant community through events like Italian American heritage nights at major and minor league stadiums across the nation. Tune in to hear about recent celebrations at iconic venues like Yankee Stadium and upcoming events in cities like St. Louis and Boston that are making a significant impact by supporting scholarships and baseball development.

Learn the inspiring journey of the foundation's scholarship program, which began with scouting trips to Italy and has since evolved into a robust initiative helping young Italian players train in U.S. colleges. Our annual gala has grown from a modest gathering to a celebrated event, attracting hundreds of attendees, including notable ballplayers and sports executives, encapsulating the sense of community and shared love for baseball. Through these efforts, the foundation is not only fostering young talent but also creating lasting bonds among attendees.

Explore the historical and cultural connections between Italy and baseball, from the origin story in Nettuno, Lazio, to the dynamics of building Italy's national baseball team. Hear about the unique experiences at Italian baseball stadiums, the joy of hosting youth clinics, and the foundation's future plans, including scholarships, equipment donations, and college opportunities for Italian natives. This episode is packed with heartwarming stories, historical insights, and exciting future prospects that promise to deepen your appreciation for Italian baseball.

What happens when family expectations clash with personal desires? In our latest episode, we explore the powerful influence of family values and identity within Italian American communities. From the intense pressure to uphold family honor to the warmth and security provided by close family ties, we uncover stories that highlight both the joy and the challenges of maintaining cultural traditions. We discuss poignant tales of relationships strained by family embarrassment and the enduring pride in family-run businesses that form the backbone of Italian American society. Join us as we share hilarious and heartfelt anecdotes about the unique quirks of Italian American life, such as the overprotectiveness of Italian grandmothers and the cultural oddities of failed summer camps. We welcome Theresa DeCubellis to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of community and resilience in achieving success. As we wrap up, we invite you to engage with our show by sharing your own stories, thoughts, and experiences. Stay tuned for more joyful celebrations of Italian heritage and a special update from Pat’s postcards from Omaha. Celebrate with us the enduring spirit of family and community that defines Italian American life!

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

Brace yourself for a heartwarming and hilarious journey through Italian American culture as we introduce the newest member of our podcast family, the delightful (folk) Doctor Zia Rosa! This special episode is filled with light-hearted banter as we delve into the rich traditions of Italian nicknames and family bonds, setting the tone for an episode brimming with nostalgia and charm.

Our journey starts with a heartfelt exploration of family traditions and remedies, featuring Rosa, the eldest sibling, who recounts memories of her mother and grandmother. She shares unique family remedies, like using warm olive oil for earaches, and emphasizes the crucial role of family historians in preserving these traditions for future generations. The episode takes an intriguing turn as we compare this remedy to another involving breast milk, highlighting the diverse ways families have cared for each other over the years. A humorous disclaimer reminds us that these stories are historical anecdotes, not medical advice.

In the latter part of the episode, we explore a range of traditional Italian healing practices and their cultural significance. From using fresh oregano in olive oil as a natural antibiotic to the multifaceted uses of honey, we uncover the rich history behind these remedies. We also share personal stories, including a special Zia Rosa tale of a severe tooth infection treated in Bari, showcasing the deep love and care within Italian families. The episode wraps up with a nostalgic memory involving an egg yolk herbal healing treatment, illustrating the resourcefulness and dedication of our Italian elders and their remedies. This episode is a touching tribute to the enduring legacy of Italian family traditions and the creative ways our ancestors took care of one another.