Join us as we sit down with Zia Mena, a cherished friend and neighbor, who paints a vivid picture of traditional Italian wedding customs and rural life in Vadola. Her reminiscences offer a window into a simpler time when love meant waiting for a husband to return from America and weddings were intimate affairs marked by cultural nuances. We delve into the fascinating aspects of matrimonial traditions, from the symbolism of bridal dolls to the communal joy of wedding processions all bearing witness to the profound transformation under the shadow of Italy's economic resurgence post World War II. These stories aren't just relics of the past—they're the threads that weave through our cultural tapestry. As we recount personal anecdotes and family lore, we shed light on the enduring power of tradition, family, and cultural identity. We invite you to listen, reflect, and perhaps find inspiration in the way these vibrant stories bridge generations, connect us with our roots, and remind us of the richness embedded within our heritage.

Vanessa Racci, the beloved jazzy Italian, takes center stage as we paint vivid portraits of Italian American music icons Bobby Darin and Connie Francis. Our heart beats with excitement as Vanessa unveils her latest passion project, "Forbidden Love," a mini musical poised to captivate audiences with its debut at Yorktown Stage in Westchester, New York. She shares her journey and collaboration with the talented Charlie Romo, all while nestled in the historical backdrop of Little Italy, thanks to the encouragement of Dr. Joseph Schelsa. Together, they breathe new life into the compelling and overlooked love story of Darin and Francis, adding depth to their legacies. Our conversation celebrates the indomitable spirit of Connie Francis, exploring her touching embrace of her Italian roots through music, even as she navigated personal trials and the challenging dynamics of fame. Her father’s insistence on her mastering the accordion and the resulting success of "Who's Sorry Now?" serve as testament to her resilience and talent. We reflect on her extraordinary journey and ponder her mysterious exclusion from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Vanessa and I weave personal anecdotes that underscore the lasting impact of these musical greats, as we announce the ambitious plans to elevate their story from a mini musical to a grand Broadway spectacle. Music becomes the powerful thread connecting past and present, as we reminisce about the resonant beauty of Italian songs like "Non pensare a me" and "Al di là." These melodies carry the weight of family memories, driven by the emotive power of the Neapolitan cry and the unique vocal qualities that define Italian music. We further explore the nurturing of future Italian American talents, celebrating figures like Charlie Romo who is staring in this production with Vanessa, and discuss the discipline and talent required to excel as a singer. As we traverse through genres, with nods to jazz and R&B legends like Alicia Keys and Etta James, this episode becomes a rich tapestry of music's enduring influence on our lives and the vibrant legacy of Italian American contributions to the musical landscape. To find out about the performance see the links below! Get tickets at: https://www.yorktownstage.org/forbidden-love-the-love-story-of-bobby-darin-and-connie-francis/ Vaness's Website: https://vanessaracci.com/ Vanessa's socials Youtube:  @vanessaracci  Instagram: @vanessaracci X: @vanessaracci

Join us in this lively episode of the Italian American Podcast as we welcome special guests from Boston, two brothers and their sister, who share their expertise on Italian feasts and the fascinating blend of their Irish and Italian heritage. Listen in as we prepare for the iconic Festa delle Tutte Feste, San Gennaro, and explore the strategic, and sometimes contentious, planning that goes into these significant cultural events. We'll reflect on the cultural dynamics between Italian and Irish communities and the contrasting attitudes toward unity and leadership within these vibrant cultures. Our journey continues with a nostalgic look at New York City's historic neighborhoods and the evolution of the San Gennaro Feast into a multi-ethnic celebration. We reminisce about the Italian heritage, the transformation of these communities, and the broader cultural shifts that have shaped New York over the years. The discussion is enriched with memories of local delicacies and historical holidays that have faded over time, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era and its lasting impact on the city's cultural landscape. We then explore the culinary and cultural traditions of Italian American neighborhoods in Boston and New York, highlighting unique dishes and festive street life. The conversation touches on memorable dining experiences, the importance of local connections, and the vibrant atmosphere during Italian feasts. Special mentions include notable Italian personalities and the traditions like the passeggiata, which add depth to our appreciation of these tight knit communities. Finally, we reflect on the enduring pride, familial ties, and playful rivalries that bind these cultures together, leaving you with a rich tapestry of Italian American life.

Join us for an engaging episode as we welcome esteemed editors Stanislao Pugliese and William Connell to explore the evolving field of Italian American studies. Listen in as we trace the academic journey of this discipline, which has grown from an overlooked orphan to a respected and interdisciplinary field. With contributions from scholars worldwide, we discuss the significance of attracting interest from non Italian Americans and the importance of Italian translations to foster cultural understanding between Italian Americans and their counterparts in Italy. Discover the remarkable impact of Italian heritage and studies at Seton Hall University, supported by generous benefactors like Mr. Valente. Learn about the establishment of an Italian studies chair and a comprehensive Italian library boasting 50,000 books, including a rare 1541 manuscript proposing radical church reforms. This chapter highlights the significance of supporting academic institutions and preserving historical texts, with a special acknowledgment from the Pope underscoring the global importance of such discoveries. Finally, explore the intricate process of cataloging and preserving Italian American memorabilia, the efforts of the Italian American Museum, and the rich cultural heritage of Italian Americans. Hear personal narratives, the challenges of maintaining traditions, and the efforts by organizations to promote Italian American literature. We also touch on significant academic projects and the role of Italian feast bands in keeping cultural traditions alive. This episode beautifully encapsulates the theme of exile and migration, drawing parallels to historical events and celebrating a century of cultural preservation.

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