This week on Cawfee Tawk, comedian Tara Cannistraci sits down with actor, singer, and songwriter Dante Palminteri for a hilarious and heartwarming conversation that spans generations, culture, and career paths.
Dante shares what it was like growing up with very old-school Italian parents—both actors—while navigating his own creative journey. From stories about his legendary father Chazz Palminteri refusing to get caught up in fame and fortune, to his Bronx roots and a Nonna who literally lit fires to warm the bath water, Dante reflects on how far his family has come—“Two generations later, and I get to use ChatGPT!”
The two also dive into Dante’s new film, Bad News On The Doorstep (coming in 2026), his early steps into stand-up comedy (with a little guidance from Tara, of course), and why the key to chasing your dreams might just be pushing through the cringe.
"Everything you want is on the other side of cringe."
Grab your cawfee, take a seat, and get ready to laugh, reminisce, and maybe even feel a little inspired.
🙋🏻♀️ 🇮🇹Check out Tara's Live Show!
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Video and Edits by Producer Venetia 🙋♀️
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Welcome to Cawfee Tawk with Tara Cannistraci AKA TaraJokes! Join comedian Tara Cannistraci every Monday! Tara reflects on the week that was or the life that was, whether it's nostalgia about NYC life, current trends, or real-life stories. This podcast is perfectly timed to accompany your morning coffee. Good morning, fellow cawfee lovers!
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Tara Cannistraci is an Italian-American comedian, actress, and writer, hailing from the vibrant streets of the Bronx, New York. Tara's talents have lit up the stage, television, film, and even centerfield as the scoreboard host for the New York Yankees.
Tara brought her unfiltered, humorous take on popular sports topics to SNY's Emmy award-winning television show “Oh Yeah,” where she both wrote for and featured in the series. Currently, she co-hosts the Chazz Palminteri Show podcast, captivating audiences with her honest insights and vivacious personality. She also co-produced and starred in We Stand Comedy's multi award-winning short film "The Chart” showcasing her versatility & misdirecting sense of humor.
On social media, Tara has gained a following by sharing the words and phrases she grew up hearing in her New York Italian neighborhood, resonating with people across the country. Her comedy album, “I'm Talkin' Here,” is a regular feature on Sirius XM.
Tara's new YouTube series, "Boroughbreds," features her doing hilarious on-the-street interviews throughout the New York boroughs, highlighting all things New York from common phrases to family owned businesses.
Tara has opened for comedy heavyweights like Josh Wolf, Joey Diaz and Vic DiBitetto, and now headlines shows across the U.S. and Canada. Her authenticity and wit continue to win over audiences wherever she performs!
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