Years ago, Laura and Pino Pugliano gifted bottles of olive oil at their wedding—never imagining it would inspire a thriving business. Our episode traces their heartfelt journey, where romance and tradition intertwine, from the charm of a small Italian town to the bustling enterprise they run today.

As we explore their story, we also uncover the rich heritage of Vena di Maida, where Albanian and Italian cultures have coexisted since the 1400s. The Arbëreshë community, with its enduring language, customs, and recipes, illustrates how migration shaped Italy’s cultural mosaic of resilience and continuity.

Our journey then turns to Calabria’s lush olive groves, where the ancient art of olive oil production still thrives. From its sacred uses in Rome to its place at modern tables, olive oil remains a timeless symbol of nourishment and identity. We highlight its health benefits, economic role, and the importance of sustainability—challenging listeners to value authentic, high-quality oils that honor Italy’s agricultural legacy. 

CICCIO'S OLIVES SOCIALS

Instagram: @cicciosolives

YouTube:  @cicciosolives 

X: @CicciosOlives

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CicciosOlives/

THEIR WEBSITE: https://cicciosolives.com/

We step into the world of independent film with the release of Director’s Cut, a project close to home, reflecting the passion, risks, and creative struggles that define the industry. Along the way, we explore the evolving landscape of streaming, AI, and the art of telling stories that stand out in an oversaturated market.

One of the highlights of this milestone episode is our conversation with the multi-talented Louie Lombardi. Known for his memorable roles on screen, Louie brings equal passion to his latest venture: Ava Lou’s pizza truck, which he runs with his daughter Ava. With humor and heart, he shares the lessons of family entrepreneurship — from teaching financial savvy across generations to navigating the cultural quirks of language, tradition, and taste.

In a twist that bridges past and present, we also reveal new developments surrounding the Italian American Civil Rights League, adding another layer of cultural and historical significance to this episode.

No celebration would be complete without reflecting on the craft of filmmaking itself. We discuss the collaborative spirit required to bring independent visions to life, the strategies behind modern marketing, and personal stories from our own creative journeys. 

Louis Lombardi SOCIALS:

Instagram: @louislombardi

TikTok: @louislombardi

Facebook: @louislombardi

X: @louislombardi

HIS WEBSITE:

www.louislombardi.com www.directorscutmovie.com

LINK TO DIRECTOR'S CUT https://www.directorscutmovie.com/store 

Don Capria SOCIALS:

Instagram: @doncapria

TikTok: @doncapria

Facebook: doncapria

X: @doncapria110

HIS WEBSITE:

www.onetencrew.com www.colombobook.com

EVENTS: 

DARK EXPO oct 24 & 25 

Colombobook.com

From the bustling streets of New York City’s Little Italy, we journey into the heart of Italian American culture—spotlighting Boston’s unparalleled feast traditions. Special guest Mark Tosi, president and owner of the iconic Pastene brand, joins us to share the company’s enduring legacy and deep ties to communities across North America. Together, we celebrate the vibrant spirit of Boston’s feasts while reflecting on the decline of similar traditions elsewhere.

We explore surprising trends in the Italian-American food industry, from the pandemic-era revival of beloved staples like pasta and pastina to the unexpected return of discontinued favorites. Along the way, we unpack the behind-the-scenes realities of supermarket shelf space and SKU management, underscoring why supporting artisanal brands is essential to preserving culinary heritage.

Our conversation also delves into the dynamics of family-owned businesses—the balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation, the weight of generational responsibility, and the personal stories that keep these enterprises alive. This episode is a celebration of family meals, cultural identity, and the authentic flavors that connect generations and define the Italian-American experience.

PASTENE'S WEBSITE:

https://www.pastene.com/

SOCIALS:

Insta: @pasteneusa

X: @PasteneUSA

Facebook: The Pastene Company

Join us for a vibrant and heartfelt conversation with Cherrye Moore—writer, art lover, and the self-proclaimed “Queen of the Cilento.” In this lively episode, we dive into family dynamics, the joys and trials of parenting teenagers, and the cultural adjustments that come with raising a child in Southern Italy. As a docent at the Met, Cherrye brings her passion for art into the mix, offering captivating insights into the unicorn tapestries and the enduring beauty of Calabria.

We explore her pioneering role in the early 2000s blogging community, her journey from Disneyland Paris to motherhood in Calabria, and how blogs became lifelines for American women embracing Italian life. Along the way, Cherrye shares humorous and touching moments from her own experience, revealing the nuances of life between cultures.

The discussion also touches on the evolving world of travel in Italy, the rich (and often complicated) cultural tapestry of the South, and the shadow of the ’Ndrangheta. Cherrye offers an honest look at the charm and challenges of life in Calabria, reminding us of the power of storytelling, community, and the enduring value of cultural connection. 

MY BELL VITA WEBSITE:

https://mybellavita.com/

SOCIALS:

Instagram: @mybellavita

Facebook: @My Bella Vita Travel

Youtube:  ⁨@mybellavita⁩ 

Step into the world of bocce, a timeless Italian game where cultural tradition and competitive spirit come together—and discover how this beloved pastime has become a cornerstone of Italian American communities across the United States. Join us as we discuss the fascinating story of the game with the Bocce Bros and explore the personal histories and family roots that have nurtured a deep love for the sport.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, you’ll gain fresh insight into bocce’s strategic appeal and its unique power to bring people together across generations and backgrounds.

Listen in as we share tales from the bocce tournament circuit, where camaraderie and rivalry go hand in hand. Meet the passionate players who’ve turned bocce into a lifelong pursuit, forming lasting bonds and chasing glory—and sometimes even winning the naming rights to a racehorse!

Discover a thriving bocce scene, where youth programs and community clubs work to preserve the game’s legacy. Explore creative initiatives like bocce-themed language classes that blend education with tradition, ensuring the sport continues to flourish for years to come.

And don’t miss the lighter side of bocce—from quirky regional rules and colorful local customs to the flair of bocce fashion, including stylish jerseys and those elusive red, white, and green shoes.

With warmth and wit, we invite you to experience the joy, pride, and sense of belonging that bocce inspires—a game rooted as much in community and culture as in friendly competition. 

WHERE TO BUY JOHN'S SHIRT: https://italianpower.dashery.com/t-shirts

THEIR SOCIALS 

Youtube:  @theboccebros 

Insta: @theboccebros Facebook:

The Bocce Bros https://www.facebook.com/TheBocceBros/

TikTok: @theboccebros

X: @TheBocceBros

THEIR WEBSITE: https://theboccebros.com/ 

THEIR PODCAST: https://open.spotify.com/show/46lQYJtqURwWu75HidV3cm

Join us as we welcome the esteemed Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes & Noble, whose journey into Italian literature unfolds in our latest episode, recorded in the heart of Little Italy at Red Sauce Studio. Drawing on his deep Sicilian roots, Steve shares his passion for translating Italian classics, offering a rare window into the overlooked narratives of Sicilian folklore and history.

We delve into how translating I Beati Paoli became a deeply personal and healing endeavor, reconnecting Steve with his family’s story and cultural heritage. Our conversation weaves through Sicily’s rich past—from its role as a historical crossroads to the legends of the Beati Paoli, a secretive brotherhood devoted to avenging injustice. We contrast their shadowy moral code with the mafia’s brutality, shedding light on the profound differences between folklore and criminal reality.

Along the way, we reflect on Sicily’s resilience, cultural pride, and pivotal political transformations, considering how these shape modern perceptions and fuel a renewed interest in the island’s legacy through literature and media.

As the episode concludes, we turn to Steve’s insights from his tenure at Barnes & Noble, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit behind its rise. He speaks candidly about challenging stereotypes and upholding Italian American dignity in the face of enduring bias. Together, we underscore the value of real, heartfelt stories over fictionalized mafia tropes—stories that echo the shared experiences of our community.

Tune in for a moving exploration of culture, literature, and identity, woven into the vibrant tapestry of the Italian American experience. 

WHERE TO BUY THE BOOK:

 https://www.sicilianavengers.com/

What if the rich flavors of Italian American culture could speak the stories of centuries? This episode promises a delicious exploration of Italian American heritage, as John and Pat take you on a captivating journey through the heart of Little Italy in New York City. From the humorous mishaps with Sicilian garduna to the challenges of sourcing authentic ingredients, we unravel the culinary traditions that have shaped our families and continue to influence our kitchens today.

Stepping into the past, we illuminate the vibrant and often overlooked history of Norman Sicily. Discover the legacy of Roger II, whose strategic brilliance transformed Sicily into a prosperous kingdom. We draw parallels between medieval Sicily and England, highlighting the Normans' far-reaching influence and their unique governance, which allowed for a flourishing, culturally rich society. Through fascinating stories and meticulous research, we reveal how these medieval connections still echo through time.

Finally, we delve into the enduring impact of Norman rule in Sicily and the ongoing efforts to preserve this heritage through the innovative Norman Sicily Project. Learn how a dedicated team is digitally reconstructing Norman society to safeguard this rich history for future generations. With insights from interdisciplinary studies and personal stories, we celebrate the resilience of Sicilian culture and the scholarly pursuits that continue to bring its stories to light. Join us in exploring the intricate tapestry of Sicilian identity and its lasting influence across time and continents.

WEBSITE:

https://www.normansicily.org/en/resources/learn/group_one/

Join us as we journey through the vibrant world of Italian American feast traditions, focusing on the rich history and cultural significance of the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

This episode spotlights the oldest celebration of the feast in the United States, held in Hammonton, New Jersey. Louis Pantalone shares captivating stories about the Italian immigrant experience and how these traditions endured through hardships like the World Wars.

We delve into the origins of the Carmelite Order and the importance of July 16th—the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Southern Italian culture. Explore the evolution of Marian imagery, from Greek Byzantine influences to depictions in the Carmelite habit, and the widespread devotion to the brown scapular. Through historical context and personal anecdotes, we show how these devotions became a powerful unifying force for Southern Italians, both in their homeland and in immigrant communities across America.

Discover the unique customs and modern revitalizations that keep these feasts alive—from candlelit processions to innovations like drone shows. We examine how these events continue to draw crowds and maintain cultural vibrancy through strategic outreach and strong community involvement.

Through heartfelt stories and historical insight, we celebrate the enduring legacy of Italian American feast traditions and the deep emotional bonds they continue to foster across generations.

HIS SOCIALS

Facebook: The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Society, Hammonton, NJ FEAST

WEBSITE: Website: https://www.mountcarmelsociety.org/

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome our special guest, Anthony—affectionately known as The Young Nono—joining us all the way from Toronto, Canada. Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge on agriculture, offering insightful tips on growing basil and how to prevent it from flowering in order to preserve its robust flavor. Our conversation delves into the fascinating intersection of cultural traditions and agricultural wisdom, with Anthony’s passion for gardening shining throughout.

We also take time to reflect on the cultural nuances between Italian Canadians and Italian Americans. Our discussion highlights how the more recent waves of Italian immigration to Canada have fostered a community still deeply rooted in its Italian heritage. In contrast, the Italian American experience reveals a different, though equally rich, perspective on identity and tradition. Through personal stories and historical context, we explore how these communities continue to navigate and preserve their cultural legacies. 

This episode is rich with stories that span gardening practices, historical narratives, and cultural traditions. From protecting fig trees against harsh winters to the shared histories of Italian families, we unpack the unique evolution of Italian American and Italian Canadian identities. Whether you’re seeking gardening tips, cultural reflections, or historical anecdotes, this conversation offers something for everyone. 

Don’t miss this engaging and heartfelt episode, filled with humor, warmth, and the joy of learning from Anthony’s experience and enthusiasm. 

HIS SOCIALS 

Instagram: @theyoungnonno

Youtube:  @TheYoungNonno 

TIkTok: @theyoungnonno

HIS WEBSITE:

https://theyoungnonno.com/

Join us for an engaging episode as we explore the vibrant essence of Italian American culture and the powerful world of adaptive sports. We begin our journey where Dolores and John reflect on Italian American heritage and the camaraderie that defines our community. With humor and warmth, we recount Dolores's wedding anniversary, where the fusion of Italian and Irish traditions came alive on the dance floor, painting a vivid picture of cultural celebration.

Our exploration continues with the inspiring story of Action Boxability, a program co-founded by Dino Spencer and Brian Broman during the pandemic. Brian shares how this initiative brings boxing to individuals with physical and cognitive challenges, offering them a unique opportunity to gain confidence and control. We share touching anecdotes about the impact on families, highlighting the transformative power of physical activity and the bonds it can create. From personal connections to philanthropic efforts, we celebrate the inclusivity and empowerment that adaptive boxing offers to people worldwide, despite the logistical hurdles it presents.

In a nostalgic look at the world of boxing, we reflect on the legacies of iconic athletes like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, exploring the thrill and raw satisfaction that sports bring. We discuss the courage it takes to step into the ring, whether in professional boxing or high school wrestling, and how it tests one's character and vulnerability. The episode concludes with a celebration of Italian American culinary traditions, sharing stories of travels, memorable meals, and the bittersweet closure of beloved local eateries. Through these rich narratives, we embrace the passion, community, and transformative power of sport and culture.

THEIR WEBSITE: boxabilityinternational.org

THEIR YOUTUBE:  @boxabilityinternationalinc3563 

BOXABILITY SOCIALS:

Instagram: @boxabilityinternational 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Boxability/100090294784796/#

THEIR SOCIALS:

Dino Spencer's Insta: @dino5thstgym 

Youtube:  @dino5thstgym 

Brian Roman Insta: @brian_b_roman