All Episodes

October 3, 2025 78 mins

Celebrated scholar Dr. Fred Gardaphé joins us in the studio to shed light on the vibrant tapestry of Italian American culture, identity, and scholarship. With warmth, humor, and memorable stories, Fred reflects on the moments that have shaped his journey—like how one of his books inspired our host's grandmother to embrace reading at the age of seventy. Together, we explore the delightful intersections of food, literature, and family traditions, while honoring the indelible mark Italian Americans have left on both the United States and their ancestral homeland.

Our conversation also delves into the challenges Italian American scholars face in bridging cultural heritage with academic pursuits. From dismantling stereotypes to embracing one's roots, Fred shares insights into the ongoing journey of weaving heritage into academic life. Beyond anecdotes, we spotlight the vital role of philanthropy in advancing Italian American studies and the ongoing efforts to preserve this cultural legacy for generations to come.

We expand the lens to consider the Italian diaspora worldwide, examining how heritage continues to flourish in communities across Argentina, Brazil, and beyond. With candor, Fred discusses the evolution of Italian American studies, emphasizing the importance of engaging younger generations and leveraging modern tools—like social media—to spark curiosity and connection. Join us for a lively and enlightening exploration that celebrates the complexities and joys of Italian American identity, academia, and community. 

 

HIS BOOKS

https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/fred-l-gardaph/225367/?srsltid=AfmBOoqFR9f2dB61OX4m0ckifDpSPhW_owQWX6iBDHSBvAd-VX3jo_c9

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang

Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang

Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.

Crime Junkie

Crime Junkie

Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

The Brothers Ortiz

The Brothers Ortiz

The Brothers Ortiz is the story of two brothers–both successful, but in very different ways. Gabe Ortiz becomes a third-highest ranking officer in all of Texas while his younger brother Larry climbs the ranks in Puro Tango Blast, a notorious Texas Prison gang. Gabe doesn’t know all the details of his brother’s nefarious dealings, and he’s made a point not to ask, to protect their relationship. But when Larry is murdered during a home invasion in a rented beach house, Gabe has no choice but to look into what happened that night. To solve Larry’s murder, Gabe, and the whole Ortiz family, must ask each other tough questions.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.