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Ever wondered what it takes to trace your family roots across continents and eras? Join us on an enthralling journey with our special guest, Stephanie Larimore, as she uncovers the layers of her multicultural heritage. From starting her genealogical quest with 23andMe to delving deep into Ancestry, Stephanie's adventure reveals riveting tales of her Italian war bride grandmother, an American soldier grandfather, and their unique blend of Italian and Chinese ancestry. Her storytelling will captivate you with tales of bravery, migration, and the serendipitous moments that connect past and present.

Stephanie shares the poignant journey of her grandmother, who courageously left Trieste, Italy, for a new life in the United States post-World War II. We explore the emotional weight of official documents, the cultural significance of Italian family traditions, and letters that weave a narrative of love, loss, and resilience. Stephanie’s recounting of her family's immigration journey and the rich tapestry of personal history offers a profound look into the complexities of identity and heritage.

Discover the fascinating tales of a ship captain, and the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in Stephanie's family. From decoding old letters to reconnecting with long-lost relatives, Stephanie’s anecdotes are filled with warmth, humor, and deep emotional connections. We also delve into the process of obtaining dual citizenship and the importance of preserving family history. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of cultural connections and the enduring power of family stories, promising to inspire you to uncover your own heritage.

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What if your family's immigration story bypassed the iconic Ellis Island, heading straight to the sunny shores of San Diego? Join us as we sit down with Tom Cesarini, founder of Convivio, who uncovers his rich Sicilian heritage and shares his family's unique journey to America. From working in a macaroni factory to establishing a vibrant enclave in Little Italy, Tom's memories paint a vivid picture of the immigrant experience, filled with both challenges and triumphs.

Explore the intricate world of dual citizenship and family heritage, as we reflect on our grandparents’ nostalgic lives in small Italian towns. Discover why more people are moving back to Italy and the legal processes involved in obtaining dual citizenship. We emphasize the benefits this holds for future generations, such as affordable education and healthcare in the EU, and the importance of preserving our roots.

Finally, immerse yourself in the efforts to preserve Italian heritage in San Diego. Learn about the creation and evolution of Convivio, its cultural programs, digital archives, and exciting plans for a larger cultural center and museum. Hear about key figures like John Mangiapane, who contribute through film and oral history projects, and find out how you can connect with Convivio Society to support the Italian community in Southern California and beyond.

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Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here or at Amazon.

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Embark with Maggie Workman and me on a voyage through time as we trace our Italian lineages from the cobblestone streets of Onano, Viterbo to the bustling avenues of America. Our conversation meanders through generational tales that piece together a mosaic of our Italian-American identities, blending personal experiences with the broader narrative of Italian migration. The echoes of our ancestors' footsteps resonate in this episode, as Maggie delves into her genealogical discoveries and I share my Neapolitan legacy, which extend beyond the well-trodden paths of New York to the often-forgotten Italian enclaves of Ohio.

Ever wondered what it takes to plan a wedding amidst the rustic charm of Italy, or how to reclaim a piece of your heritage through citizenship? The adventure doesn't stop at historical recounts; we also navigate the present-day pursuit of roots – from celebrating love in ancestral towns to untangling the bureaucratic labyrinth for official records. The heartwarming assistance from local Italian mayors, the spontaneous kinship with townsfolk, and the pride in preserving our lineage, all culminate in a narrative that speaks to the romantic and the realist alike.

The episode closes on a poignant note, with an account of Maggie's serendipitous meeting with a woman dedicated to chronicling emigrant family sagas. It's a testament to the universal longing to understand where we come from and the importance of safeguarding these legacies. As Maggie and I ponder over the value of such stories, we extend an olive branch to anyone keen on exploring their own histories, emphasizing the profound impact these journeys can have on our sense of self and community. Join us for a heartfelt tribute to Italian roots that not only define our past but continue to shape our present.

Support the Show.

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here or at Amazon.