The Italian American Podcast

Reconnecting with one's roots is a profound journey that can unravel a tapestry of heritage and identity. We sat down with Jack Polidori, a commissioner from the Delaware Commission of Italian Heritage and Culture, to discuss the soul of Wilmington, Delaware, and uncovering stories of the Feast of St. Anthony, the unique Commissioner's Night, and the vibrant educational initiatives like the La Mia Piazza summer language camp. Jack'...

Join us for a captivating journey into the heart of Italian American culture, as we celebrate Jazz Heritage Month with Vanessa Racci, also known as the Jazzy Italian! We also savor the delightful nuances of Italian cuisine, discussing the art of crafting the perfect Italian sandwich and imagining the warmth of an Italian American morning radio show. It's a lively conversation filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and a celebration of...

What if you could seamlessly blend the timeless charm of doo-wop and rock and roll with the vibrant traditions of Italian-American culture? Our special guest, Charlie Romo, takes us on a thrilling ride through the heart of these cherished worlds. Celebrating his 29th birthday with us, Charlie shares his stories of signing, balancing work and family life, and the delightful chaos of teaching students. Laughter and insights abound as...

What if you could sit in the barber chair of history and hear firsthand tales from Frank Sinatra's intimate circle? Join us as we welcome the legendary Joseph Paris, Sinatra's very own barber, to share mesmerizing stories from his life and career. Our co-host, the talented Italian American singer Jenna Esposito, helps us navigate through an episode rich with charm, humor, and the colorful anecdotes that capture the heart of Italian...

Imagine stepping into a quaint Italian village where you're the only English speaker, and every interaction is a delightful challenge. Today, we explore the vibrant tapestry of Italian American culture, identity, and the emotional odyssey of reclaiming one's roots through citizenship. This episode is a joyous celebration filled with laughter, personal anecdotes, and heartwarming stories of navigating the cultural contrasts between ...

We are back with part 2 to this wonderful episode. Join us as we journey through the sartorial evolution of Italian American fashion, tracing the transformation from the traditional elegance of "Bella Figura" to the casual, tech inspired wardrobes that have reshaped professional environments since the late 1990s. We reflect on the enduring formalities in certain professions and the decline of the "Guido" style, offering a rich tape...

Unlock the secrets of Italian American cultural identity as we gather in the vibrant heart of Little Italy at Red Sauce Studio. Join us for an exciting episode where the beloved kazoo makes a triumphant return, and we share a laugh over tales of Naples' infamous currency forgery. We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Marcella Martin, whose expertise on Italian and Italian American cultural representations offers a fresh perspective on the ...

Join us as we welcome John Didato, the brilliant Senior Creative Director at Sesame Workshop, who offers a vibrant glimpse into the world of educational television and the transformative power of Sesame Street. Broadcasting from the heart of Little Italy, we celebrate Italian American heritage and the community's indelible mark on the world of media. Through John's engaging experiences, we reflect on Sesame Street's pioneering role...

What if every Italian American carried a hidden musical talent just waiting to be discovered? Join us as we entertain this notion with our special guest, Vittorio Di Carlo, dubbed the Graceful Tenor, who brings his charm and a dash of operatic brilliance to the conversation. Together, we humorously ponder our genetic proximity to the legendary Caruso, share tales of family karaoke escapades, and envision the renaissance of leisure ...

Tony De Nonno, a filmmaker, historian, and community leader, shares his remarkable journey in preserving Italian American heritage and culture. He discusses his debut film "It's All in My Hands" and his acclaimed documentary "Heaven Touches Brooklyn in July,” both of which highlight key moments and figures within the Italian American community. Through the lens of his work and passion, Tony emphasizes the importance of passing down...