Flavor of Italy podcast

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and share a delicious meal. If you're looking to host a vegan Thanksgiving with some easy vegan recipes, draw inspiration from two incredible life-long vegan advocates: Ellen Kanner and Kate McElwee.  Their thoughtful approaches to creating a plant-based feast prove that a Vegan Thanksgiving can be every bit as festive and satisfying as a traditional one using easy vegan recipes. From flavorful sides to decadent desserts, tune in to this episode for their full menu of ideas to inspire your celebration.

The art of (Venetian) Murano glass bead making (now a recognized UNESCO slice of cultural heritage) is a treasure trove of history, craft, and culture that dates back to the 13th century. Beyond the allure of Murano’s famed glass, these Venetian beads hold a unique legacy shaped by centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and artistry. 

If you’re inspired to explore the rich tradition of Murano glass beads, Venice offers various reputable artisanal workshops, especially on Murano. While mass-produced imitations have flooded the market, authentic Murano glass beads are found in trusted shops and family-run artisanal studios on Murano Island. Artisans on Murano still work in glass workshops that are hundreds of years old, maintaining an extraordinary level of craftsmanship. Each family of bead makers often carries stories of the beads they’ve produced and the innovations they’ve contributed to Venetian glassmaking......

Via Margutta offers a respite from the tourist-packed surrounding avenues and an intimate look into the city’s artistic and cultural heart. Its serene charm, historical significance, and rich patrimony make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the true essence of Rome.

Exploring Italian Dreams and Culinary Mysteries in the Lunigiana, Tuscany

If you've ever dreamed of Tuscany, it’s likely you've imagined tranquil countryside settings, exquisite cuisine, and authentic experiences. That's precisely the world Annette Joseph has crafted at La Fortezza, her stunning retreat nestled in the Lunigiana, northern Tuscany. Annette, a creative powerhouse, author, stylist, and Italy enthusiast, recently joined me on my Flavor of Italy podcast to talk about her journey, her work, and her advice for those tempted by Italian real estate and lifestyle.

In the heart of Central Park the Angel of the Waters iconic sculpture graces the Bethesda Fountain since 1873, sculpted by Emma Stebbins. It commemorates New York City's first aqueduct and fresh water brought to the City. The sculpture was originally conceptualized by Emma Stebbins during her long period living in Rome, Italy.  While admired for its beauty, it symbolizes much more—love, healing, and rebirth, reflecting the purpose behind its creation.The story of sculptor Emma Stebbins will undoubtedly resonate with listeners as she led a captivating expatriate life in Rome, but over a century ago. In 1856, Emma Stebbins traveled to Rome to pursue her passion for sculpting. There, she became part of a vibrant expatriate community, where American actress Charlotte Cushman was one of the leading figures and eventually became Emma's lover. Italian-born author Maria Teresa Cometto recounts the fascinating story of Emma Stebbins' life and the history of the iconic Angel of the Waters Central Park fountain in her recent book of the same name. Maria Teresa is a dynamic journalist and author based in New York City,  a prominent contributor to Italy's top newspaper the Corriere della Sera, and she has written five books. 

Ansonica: A Versatile Grape Rooted in History and Rich in Flavor 

Ansonica, also known as Inzolia, is a historic Italian white grape variety that thrives in two contrasting yet equally enchanting regions—Sicily and Tuscany. This grape is as much a part of Italy’s viticultural heritage as it is a symbol of the country’s diversity in terroir and winemaking traditions. Despite its historical roots and widespread cultivation, Ansonica remains lesser-known compared to other Italian grapes like Trebbiano or Pinot Grigio. Yet, its unique characteristics and versatility make it a standout for wine enthusiasts seeking something distinctive.

Nestled off the southern coast of Tuscany in the Tyrrhenian Sea, the charming Giglio Island -  Isola del Giglio - is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Despite its small size, covering just 24 square kilometers (9 square miles), this island is brimming with breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and crystalline waters. If you’re yearning for a Mediterranean escape with untouched natural beauty, then Giglio Island should be on your travel radar.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, may not be the first city that comes to mind when discussing Italian immigration, but its Italian enclaves played a significant role in shaping the region. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a wave of Italians arrived in Pittsburgh, particularly from southern Italy. Economic hardship and political instability in Italy pushed many Italians to seek a better life abroad, and Pittsburgh, with its booming industrial sector, offered opportunities for work and upward mobility.

Unlike some immigrants, most Italians who came to Pittsburgh had little intention of returning to Italy. They viewed Pittsburgh as a land of opportunity where they could create a better life for their families. By the late 1800s, Italian immigrants began settling in downtown Pittsburgh, but as the city expanded, they relocated to nearby neighborhoods like Bloomfield, East Liberty, and the Hill District.

Forgotten Little Italys: Two Italian Immigrant Communities in Pennsylvania Some of these Italian neighborhoods, once thriving hubs of culture and commerce, have largely been forgotten. In Pennsylvania, two such neighborhoods stand out: Hays in Pittsburgh and Roseto in Northampton County. These lesser-known "Little Italys" offer fascinating glimpses into the Italian immigrant experience and have left a lasting impact on the state, even if their visibility has faded over time.

Italian immigration to America: insights into the experiences, challenges, and successes of Italian immigrants — from their journeys to America to their integration into the American way of life.

Italian Art Theft: A Deep Dive into Two of the World's Biggest Heists 

Italy, often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, holds an estimated 60 percent of the world’s artistic treasures. With such a vast collection of art, it’s no surprise that Italian art has long been a prime target for art thieves. 

The reality is that art theft in Italy and across the globe is often part of a much larger criminal enterprise, sometimes even tied to organized crime, such as the infamous Sicilian Mafia. In this episode, we explore the world of art theft in Italy, the Carabinieri’s fight to protect cultural heritage, and dive into two of the country’s most significant art heists.