Hardcore Italians Podcast

In this episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, Mike sits down with Sal “The Voice” for one of our most fun and heartfelt conversations yet.

Sal shares the unbelievable story of how he went from delivering pizzas in Queens to becoming an America’s Got Talent finalist, including the moment he flirted with Jennifer Lopez on American Idol, hit on Heidi Klum on live TV, and turned those viral moments into a 10-year career.

We also get deep into Italian-American culture—why traditions matter, the difference between “sauce” and “gravy,” why Toronto and Chicago Italians keep the culture alive, and Sal’s ranking of the best Little Italys' in America.

Plus, Sal opens up about family, growing up with Sinatra, how his late uncle changed his life, and why Italian-Americans sometimes feel “too Italian” for America and “too American” for Italy.

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Will Sasso joins Mike to talk Mad TV, building his legendary impressions, working with Chris Farley, breaking Jeremy Piven on Entourage, and stepping into the WWE ring. From Italian roots to Hollywood stories — this one’s packed.

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Actress Drea de Matteo (best known as Adriana La Cerva from The Sopranos) joins us to talk about her Italian roots, growing up in Queens, and how playing Adriana became one of TV’s most iconic roles. From her family’s journey “fresh off the boat” from Naples to hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from The Sopranos, Drea opens up about embracing her Italian-American identity, the real story behind Adriana’s death scene, and her favorite memories of James Gandolfini. This episode is full of laughter, authenticity, and Italian pride.

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In this special episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Matteo Bocelli — singer, songwriter, and son of the legendary Andrea Bocelli. Matteo opens up about growing up in Tuscany, sharing the stage with his father, collaborating with Ed Sheeran, and the emotional moment performing at Jeff Bezos' wedding in Venice.

We also talk Italian food, passion, and how love shapes both his music and identity. If you're Italian American or just love authentic, heartfelt stories — this one's for you.

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Actor and comedian Daniel Franzese (best known as Damien from Mean Girls) joins us to talk about his Italian American roots, the inspiration behind Sht Italian Moms Say*, and his family’s Brooklyn-to-Florida journey. From the “psychic powers” of Italian moms to the legendary story of his great-grandfather buying an entire block, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and cultural pride.

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻

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Hollywood told her she wasn’t Italian enough… even with the name D’Angelo. In this powerful and hilarious episode, Beverly opens up about her deep Italian heritage, visiting her grandparents' town in Abruzzo, cooking with her Nona, and the real reason she never got cast in The Sopranos. From hand-cranked pasta to movie milestones, this is Beverly like you’ve never seen her before — unapologetically Italian.

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From Broadway to motherhood, Courtney Lopez shares her journey growing up Italian American, embracing Mexican-Italian family values, her Broadway roots, and the behind-the-scenes of life with Mario Lopez.

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In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, we catch up with actor, writer, and director Joe Mazzello—best known for his iconic roles in Jurassic Park, Bohemian Rhapsody, and The Social Network. Joe reflects on growing up in the industry, working with Spielberg, embracing his Italian roots, and why he’s ready to run from dinosaurs again.

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The Esteriore Brothers join us to talk about their journey from childhood performances to becoming viral sensations keeping Italian music alive around the world. In this episode, they share what it means to stay true to your roots, the power of family, and how passion and positivity fuel everything they do.

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻

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Actor, writer, and director Ronnie Marmo joins us to talk about his powerful one-man show “I’m Not a Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce”, what it’s like working with Joe Mantegna, and his deep connection to storytelling and Italian-American identity. Ronnie opens up about his roots, the grind of staying independent in the industry, and why Lenny Bruce’s story still matters today. With humor, heart, and a little tough love, this episode is a must-listen for creatives chasing their passion.

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/

Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻

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