Welcome to the first episode of our special three-part series on The Italian American Stories Podcast where we delve into the captivating life and family history of Esther Albano.

In this opening episode, we set the stage in 1899 New Orleans, a time and place fraught with challenges and opportunities for Italian Americans. We begin with a harrowing historical backdrop, discussing the infamous lynching of 11 Italians in New Orleans, an event that sent shockwaves through the Italian American community. Additionally, we briefly touch on the chilling tale of the Axeman of New Orleans, hinting at its connection to our series.

Amidst this turmoil, we introduce Esther's parents, two determined immigrants who, in just four short years, transformed their American dream into reality by opening their very own grocery store. However, their journey was not without hardship. In February of 1899, tragedy struck when an intruder broke into their family home, marking a pivotal moment in their story.

Join us as we explore the resilience and spirit of Esther Albano’s family, setting the foundation for a narrative filled with strength, perseverance, and hope.

Join us for our first "Tales from the Archives" episode! This special segment of the podcast will cover stories and articles that are too small for a full episode but still deserve to be told!

In this first episode, we tell stories about love, a heroic rescue from a sewer, and so much more!

Welcome to a special Mother’s Day edition of The Italian American Stories Podcast! Join us as we delve into the rich history of Italian mothers through the lens of old newspaper articles. In this episode, we’ll explore the timeless wisdom, love, and strength embodied by Italian mothers as we read and discuss articles from the past. From heartwarming anecdotes to cultural insights, we’ll uncover the multifaceted roles and traditions that have shaped generations of Italian American families.

So grab a cup of espresso, settle in, and celebrate Mother’s Day with us as we honor the remarkable women who have influenced our lives in ways both big and small.

Buona festa della mamma!

In this heartfelt episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we delve into the remarkable life of Michael Frank Capra, as shared by a listener. Through tales of adversity and triumph, we uncover the courageous spirit of a man who navigated through the darkest of times with courage and resilience.

Join us as we explore the captivating journey of Michael Frank Capra, a man who faced family tragedies with unwavering strength, ultimately emerging as a beacon of love and success. From unexpected twists involving mystery and intrigue to the listener's cherished memories filled with laughter, this episode is a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the human spirit.

Join us on a journey through the dusty trails of the Wild West as we uncover the captivating life of Charles Siringo, a true Italian American legend. Born to Italian and Irish immigrant parents in 1855, Siringo's life story is a testament to the adventurous spirit of Italian Americans.

In this episode, we delve into Siringo's early years as a Texas cowboy, riding the range and facing the challenges of life on the open plains. But Siringo's story takes a thrilling turn when he joins the ranks of the legendary Pinkerton Detective Agency, becoming one of the most skilled and respected lawmen of his time.

In this episode, we explore the events surrounding Kitty Genovese's murder in 1964, in Queens, New York. Kitty Genovese, was a young Italian American woman whose life and untimely death sparked a pivotal moment in social psychology and emergency response systems.

Join us as we honor the life and legacy of Kitty Genovese, exploring the intersections of tragedy, resilience, and the Italian American experience.

In this episode of "The Italian American Stories Podcast," we delve into the captivating journey of Frank Fiori, an Italian American whose tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit left an everlasting impression on the city of Denver.

Join us for a special New Year's episode that transports you to the frosty streets of Juneau, Alaska in 1915.

In this short yet captivating episode, we delve into the murder of Mike Defino. Follow us as we piece together the events leading up to the murder.

Tune in as we kick off the year with a tale that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your curiosity about the untold chapters of our heritage.

Dive into the warmth of the season with our Christmas Special episode of Italian American Stories, where we unwrap the past through nostalgic newspaper articles.

In this episode, we bring you the story of a woman reliving a cherished childhood memory where she treks through a snowstorm, determined to reach her aunt's house for the beloved Feast of the Seven Fishes.

And, to add a touch of humor to your holiday cheer, we close the episode with a chuckle-worthy exploration of the top ten gifts for Italian American children. Spoiler alert: These gifts are entirely fabricated, but they'll leave you in stitches as we imagine a world where bambini unwrap the most unexpected surprises.

May your holiday season be filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of shared memories.