Lunchtime in Rome

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 278 is titled “Meeting needs.” How do people meet our emotional needs in real life? Who’s doing a good job of that? We’re talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

In Episode 278 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Meeting Needs," hosts Jay, Eric, Brian, and Chris dive into a heartfelt discussion about how emotional needs are met in real life and who stands out in fulfilling them. Recorded on March 26, 2025, this episode blends personal updates with a deeper exploration of emotional connections, offering listeners a mix of relatable stories and thoughtful insights.

The episode kicks off with the hosts sharing updates from their lives. Eric talks about the chaos and excitement of home renovations led by Jay’s nephew Hunter, including new floors, painting, and a front door installation. This sparks a conversation about the "Great Purge of 2025," where he and his family are decluttering their home, reflecting on the emotional weight of letting go of unused items. Jay shares his enthusiasm about returning to Young Life staff, navigating a flurry of new opportunities and responsibilities that feel like puzzle pieces yet to fit together. Chris opens up about a challenging period marked by family health issues and instability, but finds a silver lining in a new hobby—collecting vinyl records—sparked by a Valentine’s Day gift from his wife, Amy.

The main topic centers on emotional needs, inspired by Romans 12:15 ("Rejoice with those who rejoice, mourn with those who mourn"). Jay prompts the group to consider who, besides their spouses, meets their highest emotional needs. Listener responses from Facebook highlight diverse experiences: Wren McConnell lists comfort, security, and validation but doesn’t name a source; Dan Leepold credits his pets for providing security and belonging with their unwavering presence; and Christy Fraccioni praises her book club for offering validation, acceptance, and consistency. The hosts then share their own reflections—Eric names his friend Max for encouragement and acceptance through gaming and walks, while Jay and Chris point to each other and their broader communities, noting how awareness of emotional needs enhances their interactions.

A poignant moment arises when Jay wonders why only three listeners responded to his prompt, despite typically receiving 18-30 replies. The group speculates it might reflect unmet needs, reluctance to single out individuals, or a lack of familiarity with the emotional needs framework—a concept they’ve championed for 278 episodes. They emphasize its value as a "cheat code to life," urging listeners to embrace vulnerability and recognize those who fill their emotional cups.

Filled with humor, nostalgia (think vinyl records and childhood toys), and genuine camaraderie, this episode celebrates the people—friends, pets, or even strangers—who meet our needs in unexpected ways. Tune in to Episode 278 on YouTube or your favorite podcast app, and join the conversation at lunchtimeinrome.com by taking the Relational Needs Questionnaire. Who meets your emotional needs? Let’s shed some positive light together!

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Welcome to Episode 277 of "Lunchtime in Rome," where we invite you to pull up a seat at the table for a heartfelt and lively discussion. Titled "Rejoice, Go, and Groan," this episode introduces a fresh format while staying true to our mission of loving one another and embodying Romans 12:15—rejoicing with those who rejoice and mourning with those who mourn. Hosted by Jay Mitlo and joined by Joe, with Brian out and Chris under the weather, this episode dives into life’s ups, downs, and everything in between.

A New Format with Familiar HeartFor the first time in 277 episodes, we mixed things up a bit. Inspired by an Instagram reel about the qualities of true friendship—playful banter, steadfast support, and being there when it counts—we structured the episode around three themes: rejoicing, going, and groaning. Jay kicked things off by celebrating listener milestones, like Christina and Julian’s house purchase and new job, and mourning with those facing challenges, such as Becky’s ambiguous struggles and Chris’s current rough patch.

Joe’s Tale of ResilienceJoe took the stage with a mix of groans and grit. Fresh off his 22nd birthday (deemed the “Tuesday of birthdays”), he shared a chaotic week: stabbing his hand with a pocket knife en route to work (landing him at Magee-Womens Hospital for stitches) and spraining his ankle during intramural volleyball. Despite the mishaps, Joe’s humor shone through, and he balanced the groans with gratitude for his strong relationships and stable living situation with new roommates Nate and Dylan.

Jay’s Exciting Return to Young LifeJay embodied the “go” theme with big news: he’s stepping back into Young Life as the interim part-time Area Director for East Hills, a role he held full-time from 1996 to 2008. Sparked by a text from Joe’s girlfriend Julia, encouragement from colleagues, and a staffing gap, Jay sees this as a chance to leverage his deep community ties in Penn Hills. From baseball games to swim meets, he’s already connecting with students, excited to build a ministry that meets kids where they are—whether through camp, fun activities, or leadership development.

Eric’s Nashville AdventureClosing out the episode, Eric shared a joyous recap of his and Amy’s getaway to Nashville—a trip planned for rest, not rush. Highlights included scoring last-minute tickets to the legendary Bluebird Cafe, where they discovered Ben Roberts and his songwriting friends, and attending the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th-year Saturday night show, featuring talents like Don Schlitz (writer of “The Gambler”). From savoring a standout breakfast at Milk and Honey to laughing over Employee of the Month, their trip was a rejuvenating blend of music, food, and connection—no womp womps here!

Join Us Next TimeEpisode 277 captures the essence of life’s rollercoaster—celebrating wins, supporting struggles, and embracing new journeys. Whether you’re rejoicing, groaning, or on the go, there’s a seat for you at our table. Catch the full episode on your favorite podcast app or YouTube, and join us next week for Episode 278. Visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take our Relational Needs Questionnaire, follow us on social media, and leave a five-star review. Until then, tie your shoelaces and keep loving one another!

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Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 276 is titled “Ben Hershman.” Ben is one half of Sola Gratia Vita Ministry alongside his wife Gab. We’re getting to know him at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Episode Summary

In Episode 276 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, hosts Jay, Eric, and Brian welcome Ben Hirschman, one half of Sola Gratia Vita Ministries, for an engaging conversation. Recorded on March 5, 2025, the episode dives into Ben’s unique journey—from his early days as a competitive tap dancer to his current roles as an electrician, electrical instructor, worship leader, and ministry co-founder alongside his wife, Gab. The hosts share personal updates, including Eric’s family outing and Brian’s frustrating encounter with identity theft, before turning the spotlight on Ben. He opens up about his faith journey, sparked by a stillbirth loss that deepened his relationship with God, and how it inspired Sola Gratia Vita, a ministry supporting couples through perinatal trauma and loss. Ben reflects on navigating grief as a husband and father, emphasizing the power of presence over fixing, and shares how the ministry aims to offer free support to those in need. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion about life, loss, and finding purpose through faith.

Support Ben and Gab: https://www.givesendgo.com/sola-gratia-vita_soul-care

Follow their ministry: https://www.instagram.com/solagratiavita/

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 275 is titled “Funeral Blessings” What makes the saddest of days more bearable? What has helped you get through these terrible life events? What have you done to help others through their time? We’re talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Episode Summary

In this heartfelt episode, the guys explore what makes the saddest days more bearable, focusing on the power of presence and support during funerals. They share personal stories, like planning a Nashville getaway and navigating passport woes, before diving into listener responses about meaningful funeral experiences. From kids showing up at a viewing to friends traveling hours with little notice, the episode highlights how simply being there often matters more than words. However, it also touches on the flip side—hurtful comments like “it’s time to be over this” after a stillbirth. The guys emphasize that true comfort comes from showing up, especially long after the funeral, when the world moves on but the grieving doesn’t. Tune in for a mix of laughter, reflection, and wisdom on mourning together.

From The Table

* Laura Pierini

* When Gary died, almost every single kid in the first and second grade at my kids school came to the viewing. Not just their parents, but the kids as well.

* Faith Milazzo

* I really appreciated the few friends from HS and college who showed up at my dad’s funeral over an hour away and with one day’s notice; we did not have a viewing. It was also nice to see my dad‘s best friends from high school who he had kept in touch with over the years. One drove across the state.

* This had nothing to do with the funeral, but the mom of one of my daughter’s friends from grade school showed up at my house with flowers and some tea because she read my Facebook posts that I was having trouble sleeping. I hadn’t seen this woman in a couple of years; we only kept in touch through Facebook. I was really touched by that kindness.

* Janet Uffner Amato

* Dan worked for the PAT and tons of workers came. They even brought a bus with a wreath in front of it with his employee #. His dear friend, Tom, flew in & brought his clarinet & played at the funeral. My friends & family were nothing short of amazing.

* Dawn Marie Himes-Pinner

* It the emotion others showed. Some were for my mom and the void in their life brought on by her passing, but also the hurt that was felt for my hurt.

* It was “my people” seated behind me - walling me in, protecting me from

* Lastly, it was everyone who knew how exceedingly important each and every detail of the day was to me.

* All of this to say, that on one of the hardest days of my life I felt protected.

* Beverly Sheesley

* At my uncle's funeral I learned more about him due to the pastor who spoke. My uncle told him things that he experienced as a soldier in WWII that he never shared with any of his family. It was like getting to see another side of him. A gift from him to his family at his funeral.

* Kerry Doyal

* Kind, genuine presence.

* As appropriate, crying with them. Not hiding your tears.

* Kelly E. Anker

* My friends showing up when my aunt died, no they did have to and it meant a lot but also at the time I probably didn’t think I was worth my friends showing up.

* Katie Jones-Hess

* When my dad died we were unsure of what to do about the newspaper obituary. He had been ill for many years and limited contact outside of the house, many of his friends, work colleagues and neighbors had either moved or passed .

* We decided to run it and a few families in Penn hills saw it and came to the memorial. These were other swimming parents who we knew since I was in 1st grade . Back to the days of Highlands aqua club swim team , then all the way through high school.

* They shared great memories of my dad . It was very touching to see them and hear of the outgoing & proud athlete parent version of my dad !

* You never know who may show up if they can.

* Hannah Morris Brouzakis

* I used to think I needed to say something significant when I attended a viewing or funeral. When my mom died I realized I remember very few things people said to me. What stands out the most were the people that were there, just their presence. The fact that they got up that morning, got dressed, and showed up for me (or my dad, or my brothers, or just because they loved my mom). That was the biggest comfort.

* Colleen Donkin Jonnet

* When Rich died two young girls came to the funeral home by Access. They were former students of his. They both were in wheelchairs and they proceeded to tell me that they both had full time jobs and they lived in their own apartments all because Mr. J told them that they could do anything they set their minds to!!! They said they owed him so much and wanted to show their respect to him and his family!!! I was so very touched by their kind words and for them coming to convey them to me!!!

* Sandi Chick Varrenti

* A couple from church that I felt like they were present the entire time my husband was laid out. I will never forget how much that blessed me 💞

* Amy Lynn

* I received so many great stories about my mom from people I had never met, that I still think about often. The day of the visitation at the funeral home was long and difficult, but anytime I looked up and saw my "people" it gave me the strength to carry on. It's also funny that the people I was certain would show up didn't and ones that I didn't think would show did.

* Dylan Porter

* When my mom died, 2 young nieces came to my side for hugs. I just sat down on the floor, with the

* m on my lap, and almost cried like a child. It was wonderful, even though I'm sure they didn't understand death yet.

* (These transition from good to bad)

* Sally Feeney Herr

* When I don't know what to say..I give a hug

* I know it's important to just show up at the funeral home and or the service.

* We had a full term stillborn son..1 Sunday a few months after we buried him..I broke down in church..someone at the church we were attending said (very meanly)" it's time for you to be over this"

* DON'T EVER SAY THAT.

* Tara Conaway

* "ministry of presence" is the best way I describe it. The ones that didn't do anything overly memorable, they just.....showed up. The ones that stand out in my mind as negative experiences are akin to Job's "friends." Offering advice, information....i mean honestly just anything they said. I know it was well intended but...to this day 15+ years later I still remember someone warning me not to gain weight after my mother died because she did, and how awful it was. And notably - to me, the biggest highlights are the ones who showed up 3months, 6 months, 1 year after the funeral. The funeral is easy to remember - social media, newspaper obituaries, town chatter. Its the ones who show up when the dust has settled and life has moved on for everyone else. THAT is the true "ministry of presence."

* Cori Tray

* I'm not sure if this is considered a blessing, but my Uncle passed when I was in my mid 20's and my 93 year old Aunt/his wife was standing up at the casket... My boyfriend at the time/now husband and my parents approached... Gave hugs...etc. My 93 year old aunt proceeds to say, "Cori, you've sure grown... Not this way (motioning up and down), but this way (motioning side to side)... Now, I am 4'10 and at that time maybe weighed 130 pounds... I was ready to knock her out and my boyfriend and parents still relive that moment... The anger... Haha

* (This is just sweet)

* Mark Piccolino

* The two people who I grew up next door to passed away within weeks of each other. When he died I felt that the priest really didn't say much about him. They were very involved in their church and deserved a better send off. When she died, I voiced my opinion to his children and they let me say a eulogy for them both at her funeral. I felt so honored to be able to memorialize them properly.

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In Episode 274 of Lunchtime in Rome, titled "Who Do You Trust," the guys dive into a thought-provoking discussion about who we trust, how much we trust them, and why trust matters—or doesn’t. Recorded on February 19, 2025, this episode blends personal updates with a deep exploration of trust in relationships, institutions, and society at large.

The episode kicks off with the guys catching up on recent experiences. Eric shares highlights from a work trip to New York City, where he navigated the hustle of Manhattan, stayed at the AKA Nomad, and dominated a high-tech tabletop shuffleboard tournament at Electric Shuffle. Chris recounts a cozy Valentine’s Day weekend getaway to Canton, Ohio, featuring a charming bed and breakfast stay and a visit to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, complete with an immersive Joe Namath hologram show. Meanwhile, Brian reflects on introducing a fresh Italian pasta brand to Pittsburgh, now available at local spots like Community Market and Wooley’s, while also anticipating his daughter’s upcoming junior high musical.

The conversation then shifts to the main topic: trust. The guys pose big questions: Who do you trust completely? How much faith do you have in institutions like the church, government, or major charities? They share personal scales of trust, revealing a stark skepticism toward large organizations. Trust in government scores a dismal 1.6 among their audience, with the guys themselves hovering near zero, though local governance earns slightly more confidence due to its proximity and accountability. Major charities fare a bit better at 2.8, but concerns about mismanagement and executive pay temper any optimism. Religion elicits varied responses—high trust in their local Faith Community Church contrasts with wariness toward broader denominations like the Vatican or Southern Baptist Convention.

A surprising twist emerges when they discuss how much trust matters to them personally. While their audience rates trust’s importance a unanimous 10, the guys are more reserved, landing between 5 and 6. They argue that expecting unwavering trust sets unrealistic standards, especially since everyone falters eventually. Trust in close relationships—like with a spouse or friends—ranks higher (9 or 10), but for the general population or institutions, it’s less critical. They explore how betrayal differs from broken trust and suggest that grace and understanding might be key to navigating inevitable disappointments.

The episode wraps up with a nod to the different roles institutions play versus personal connections. While friends are trusted with feelings and secrets, governments and charities are judged by whether they deliver on promises—a bar they rarely meet. With humor, candor, and a touch of cynicism, the guys invite listeners to reflect on their own trust thresholds and join them next week for Episode 275.

Catch the full episode at lunchtimeinrome.com, take the Relational Needs Questionnaire, and follow along on social media for more from the table!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 273 is titled “Motivation for Love.” We’ve briefly referenced this multi-layered approach of looking at why we meet other people’s needs. Tonight we’re going to flush it out and maybe, hopefully, give it a name. We’re talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Episode Summary

In this episode of "Lunchtime in Rome," the guys dive deep into the concept of motivations behind love, introducing a new framework they playfully call "The Love Quadrant." Here's a summary:

* Introduction to the Topic: The episode starts with a light-hearted acknowledgment of the "Love Quadrant" diagram, setting a tone for an engaging discussion on the motivations for love. The guys promise to explore why people meet others' needs, framing it within a multi-layered approach.

* Podcast Introduction: The guy welcome listeners to the table, emphasizing the communal and conversational aspect of the show. They mention it's a special episode focused on giving love a name and exploring its motivations.

* Health and Life Updates: Before diving into the main topic, the guys share personal updates, discussing health routines, recent life events, and the humorous side of managing daily life. This includes talks about therapy, seasonal affective disorder, and unique health practices like consuming Celtic sea salt and homemade "Amish amoxicillin."

* Motivations for Love: The core discussion revolves around the "Love Quadrant," which categorizes motivations for love into four quadrants:

* Deceived: Here, individuals either have a narcissistic view that everyone exists to meet their needs or feel so defeated they believe they have nothing to offer.

* Selfish: Love is shown not for the benefit of the loved one but to make oneself look or feel good.

* Ignorant: Individuals have good intentions but lack the know-how to effectively meet emotional needs.

* Godly or Altruistic: Love is given purely for the sake of the other person, driven by a higher purpose or divine guidance.

* Analysis and Examples: The guys analyze each quadrant with personal anecdotes and hypothetical scenarios, like how one might handle a honey-do list or react at a fundraiser, to illustrate where motivations might lie on this quadrant.

* Interactive and Reflective: The discussion encourages listener participation by inviting them to consider their own motivations for love and how these might vary with different relationships or situations.

* Conclusion: They wrap up by reflecting on the significance of understanding one's motivations for love, suggesting it's a tool for personal growth and better relationships. The episode ends with a reminder to follow the podcast and take part in their relational needs questionnaire.

This episode blends humor, personal stories, and a novel approach to understanding love, making it both informative and entertaining for listeners interested in self-improvement and relational dynamics.

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Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 272 is titled “Heather Hoolahan!!!.” Heather is a regular at The Table but is live in person with us tonight. She is the defined by her commitment to service, family, and Penn Hills. We’re excited for you to get to know Heather at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Main Topics Discussed:

* Personal Updates:

* Brian: Shared his recent travels to New York, experiencing Katz's Deli, and upcoming plans for Cincinnati. He also discussed his anticipation for a productive year, mentioning his children's involvement in school musicals.

* Cold Bath Experience: Brian talked about his ice bath routine, describing the physical and mental challenges, and shared an anecdote about his wife, Lex, who managed to stay in the cold bath longer than expected.

* Guest Spotlight - Heather Hoolahan:

* Background: Heather, the oldest of eight siblings, recounts her upbringing in a large family in Penn Hills, her parents' work, and the significant impact of her mother's death from breast cancer when Heather was 27. She also shared the loss of her sister Colleen to cancer.

* Life Challenges: Heather discussed stepping into a pseudo-parental role for her younger siblings after her mother's passing, navigating family dynamics, and her personal growth through immense personal loss.

* Misconceptions: Heather addressed misconceptions about her, emphasizing she's not tough but strong when necessary, not confrontational but protective, and her need for encouragement over validation or attention.

* Impact of Loss: The conversation touched on how the loss of her sister and mother shaped her perspective on life, fostering a deep sense of empathy and understanding for others' struggles.

* Community and Personal Values:

* Service and Family: Heather's commitment to her family and community in Penn Hills is highlighted, including her involvement in local sports and school events, even though she didn't seek out these roles.

* Philosophy on Life: She shared her life mottos of giving grace when unsure and the belief that "but for the grace of God go I," reflecting her approach to life's challenges and others' shortcomings.

* Light-hearted Moment:

* The episode concludes with a fun question about what Heather would do with an all-expense-paid trip, revealing her desire for a road trip across the U.S. with her husband Lenny, focusing on history and beauty without the typical tourist attractions.

Conclusion:

* The episode ends with gratitude for Heather's presence and insights, emphasizing how her story might resonate with listeners facing similar life challenges. The hosts encourage listeners to connect with the podcast via social media and to participate in their relational needs questionnaire.

This episode of "Lunchtime in Rome" delves into deep personal narratives, community involvement, and the profound impact of loss, all while maintaining a connection to everyday life and local culture.

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Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 271 is titled “Mia DeFazio!!!.” What’s it like to be a film major and MAKER? What’s it like to go to 2 completely different Christian Universities? We’ll be talking about that and more with Mia at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us! First time listeners can subscribe on your favorite podcast app, or watch us LIVE or later on YouTube lunchtimeinrome. Visit us at lunchtimeinrome.com, while there you can take our relational needs questionnaire. Make sure to follow us on all social media and it would be great if you give us a five star review.

Episode Summary

In this episode of "Lunchtime in Rome," titled "Mia DeFazio," the hosts delve into the life of Mia DeFazio, who is Jay's niece. The conversation unfolds with a warm, familial vibe, touching on several aspects of Mia's life:

* Background: Mia shares her journey from growing up in Penn Hills to moving to Penn Trafford in sixth grade, which she describes as an awkward but manageable transition.

* Education and Career: Mia discusses her experiences at two Christian universities—Geneva College and Liberty University. At Geneva, she found the environment and major not quite fitting her expectations, leading her to transfer to Liberty University. Here, she pursued filmmaking, becoming a director for her senior project, and also joined a hip-hop dance ministry team called D-TREX, where she later became co-captain.

* Personal Insights: The episode explores Mia's interests and personality, highlighting her involvement in theater, choir, and dance during school years. Mia opens up about significant life events like the loss of her cousin Trey, which deeply affected her family, showing how it influenced her perspectives and relationships.

* Future Aspirations: With graduation approaching, Mia expresses uncertainty but a strong interest in entering the film industry, perhaps starting with internships at places like Pixar or Angel Studios, which connects to her studies at Liberty.

* Favorite Things: Mia humorously navigates questions about phobias, favorite characters from "Wicked," and even her preferences in food and travel, revealing her love for Italian culture due to her heritage.

* Family and Friends: Throughout the episode, the importance of family and close relationships is evident. Mia's bond with her sister Lydia, her parents, and her cousins like Joe and Bella is celebrated, showing how these relationships have shaped her.

* Light-hearted Moments: The conversation is peppered with humor, from discussing Santa Claus revelations to playful jabs at family members, creating a light-hearted atmosphere.

This episode not only introduces listeners to Mia DeFazio but also reflects on themes of family, personal growth, and the transition from education to professional life, all through the lens of a close-knit family's podcast setting.

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Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 182 is entitled, “Meeting your toddler’s emotional needs.” It's hard for us to express how we feel. It is rare for people to even know what their emotional needs are and how they can be met. What must it be like for a baby or toddler who cannot express what they don't understand that they're feeling? Further, what can parents do to keep them from feeling scared and alone?

We'll be talking about that this week at The Table. Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

* Parenting feels hard because it is hard

* Your child is a hard time, not giving you a hard time

* Our jobs as parents:

* Physical safety-> boundaries

* Two story house analogy: downstairs (impulse and emotion), stairs (parents), upstairs (self-awareness, decision-making, etc.) (From the Whole Brain Child by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson)

* Validation

* Empathy

* Attachment theory: children are hardwired to seek out nurturing relationships in order to survive

* Two things are true: it doesn't always need to be either/or

* ex. Your child can be frustrated and you can still maintain boundaries

* Behavior is a window

* Reduce shame, increase connection

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

* Christmas Food Traditions:

* The episode focuses on favorite Christmas Eve and Christmas dinner foods, with participants sharing personal and family traditions.

* Seafood: Discussion on the Feast of the Seven Fishes, common in Italian heritage, although not everyone at the table observes this tradition. Various types of seafood like crab, shrimp, calamari, and more are mentioned.

* Main Courses:

* Ham is highlighted as a popular choice for Christmas, contrasting with turkey which is saved for Thanksgiving. Prime rib is discussed, particularly praised by one of the participants for its quality when prepared by their mother-in-law.

* Lamb is noted as a tradition for New Year's Day rather than Christmas in some families.

* Sides and Appetizers:

* Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, corn, and dinner rolls are discussed, with a humorous anecdote about a corn mishap.

* Appetizers like shrimp cocktail were mentioned as part of the holiday feast.

* Baking and Desserts:

* Cookies are a significant part of the holiday with mentions of Italian and Polish cookies, including specific types like Ladylocks, Pizzelles, and wedding cookies.

* A light-hearted mention of "F you cookies" by Dan Leopold, humorously described as giving the finger with their shape.

* Personal Stories and Anecdotes:

* Various personal stories are shared, including:

* Stories about holiday mishaps, like forgetting to turn on a crock pot or not having the mashed potatoes ready in time.

* Experiences with traditional foods like pierogies, which were new to some participants growing up.

* The emotional and relational significance of holiday meals, linking back to the podcast's theme of relational needs.

* Foodie Group Insights:

* Ashley discusses her involvement with Pittsburgh Foodies, sharing how the group operates and her administrative duties. She mentions the group's growth and engagement, although they've moved away from large events due to low turnout.

* Cultural and Regional Food Variations:

* There's an exploration into how different regions and cultures celebrate with food, from the Northeast's preference for Italian Christmas cookies to the Midwest's interest in red velvet cookies, based on a map showing cookie search trends by state.

Conclusion:

* The episode concludes with thanks to Ashley for joining, emphasizing the joy of sharing and discussing life and food around the holiday season. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast and join related groups like Pittsburgh Foodies for more culinary exploration.

This episode serves not only as a culinary journey through Christmas traditions but also as a warm, conversational setting that celebrates the communal aspect of holiday meals.

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