Podcasts about Tuscany

Ask Us A QuestionYou already said you were sorry. You meant every word of it. And they're still sitting there closed up like you never opened your mouth.I get this question constantly. I've made a mess, it's my fault, and I can't get my person to turn around and hear me. So today I'm not answering how to apologize, or even how to apologize better. You already know how to say I'm sorry. What I want to answer is why it doesn't land, and the reason is specific. Most of us apologize for the wrong thing entirely. Not the wrong words. The wrong thing.I'll walk you through the six steps I take my private clients through, the same ones Tom and I use on each other. I snapped at him in the car over nothing and we had it cleaned up in about 20 seconds. In my previous marriage that same moment would have cost us the whole weekend. Tom tells on himself in here too, about a dinner he said he'd come to and didn't.Two things to listen for. There's one sentence that opens the door before you apologize at all, and it ends with a one-word question that decides whether they can even hear the rest. And there's a last step almost everybody skips, the one that takes an apology from finished to actually over. If you've heard this episode before, that's the part to stay for.Press play before the next round of that same fight.A Quick NoteWe're a few weeks into bringing back the episodes you've downloaded the most while we're in Tuscany, Italy, leading our very first international relationship retreat. Brand-new episodes are back mid-September.Resources & LinksBetter Love Quiz: 22 questions, about 5 minutes, free and completely private. Find out which skill is missing. https://betterlovequiz.comPrivate session with Staci: real help cleaning up a mess that's bigger than a car ride. https://stacibartley.com/private-sessionsClarity call: not sure where to start? The average couple waits six years to get help. Don't do that. https://stacibartley.com/applyEnjoying Love Shack Live? Please leave a review and share this episode with someone you care about.Love isn't enough, but skills are. Learn them, practice them, and live them today.

The MidPacker Pod is part of the Freetrail network of Podcasts.Join the Newsletter at:⁠ ⁠MidPack Musings SubStack⁠⁠Support the Pod Directly: https://troymeadows.substack.com/subscribe⁠Check Out MPP Merch ⁠Make sure you leave us a rating and review wherever you get your pods.Looking for 1:1 Ultra Running Coaching? Check out ⁠Troy's Coaching Page ⁠STOKED TO PARTNER WITH  KILA - $50 off your order⁠GO BREWING⁠ - 20% off your first orderUSE MIDPACKER TO GET THAT DISCOUNT FRIENDSRENDEZVU.CO - Check out the Gear I love your purchases support me directly"I don't think I'm a different person. I'm just a more expanded person."What happens when your passions stop competing with one another and start working together?In this episode, Troy Meadows sits down with artist, entrepreneur, trail runner, and new mom Abigail West. Abigail shares how an unlikely start in competitive rowing eventually led her to trail and ultrarunning, where she found the perfect blend of adventure, competition, and creativity.The conversation goes far beyond racing. Abigail talks about balancing motherhood with a return to training, what pregnancy and postpartum taught her about patience, and why she believes being an artist and an endurance athlete require many of the same qualities. She also shares how trail running transformed her artwork, why Southern Appalachia continues to inspire both her running and printmaking, and how she and her husband have built a life around creativity, entrepreneurship, and taking calculated risks.Whether she's preparing for another attempt at the Bartram Trail FKT, creating artwork inspired by the places she runs, or embracing life with a new baby while spending the summer in Italy, Abigail offers an honest perspective on building a life that reflects your values instead of someone else's expectations.In This EpisodeDiscovering endurance sports through competitive rowingFalling in love with trail running in the Southern AppalachiansWhy ultrarunning feels more like solving puzzles than simply running fastBalancing motherhood, training, and entrepreneurshipReturning to running after pregnancy and postpartumThe mindset behind "careful but not afraid"Building an art business inspired by adventure and wild placesHow creativity and trail running fuel one anotherPreparing for another Bartram Trail FKT attemptWhy having "no Plan B" became a source of freedomAbigail's LinksIG: @upinthewoodsWebsite: Abigail West StudioRelevant LinksBartram TrailPartner Links: KILA - https://kilarun.comRun Longer In Custom InsolesUse MIDPACKER for $50 off your order⁠Go Brewing⁠ - ⁠https://gobrewing.com/discount/MIDPACKER⁠NA Beers for people that enjoy brews that taste great and are better for you.Less alcohol, fewer calories, and more productive tomorrows.Use MIDPACKER for 20% off your first orderRendezvu.Co - https://www.rendezvu.co/troy-meadowsCheck out the Gear I love our purchases support me directly⁠Vacation Races⁠ - ⁠https://www.vacationraces.com⁠Epic Races on public lands near the most iconic National Park in the US.Use MIDPACKER at checkout for 15% the registration of any Ultra, Half, or Trailfest⁠⁠Run Trail Life⁠⁠ - ⁠https://runtraillife.com⁠Find Official MPP Merch on RTL!!Visit RunTrailLife.com to check out our line of Hats and Organic cotton T's.⁠⁠Freetrail⁠⁠ - ⁠https://freetrail.com⁠Visit Freetrail.com to sign up today.Abigail West, MidPacker Pod, trail running, ultrarunning, artist-athlete, printmaking, entrepreneurship, motherhood, postpartum running, Bartram Trail, Bartram Trail FKT, Southern Appalachians, Athens Georgia, Tuscany, Italy, University of Georgia, Cortona, creativity, endurance sports, trail art, running community, Megan RocheIn This Episode

Ask Us A QuestionYour partner finally tells you that something you do hurts them. And before they even finish, you're already explaining. "That's not what happened." "That's not what I meant." "I never meant it that way." "Well, you do it too."That's defensiveness. But, it never feels like defensiveness from the inside. It feels like telling the truth, which is why it can chew through a relationship for years before anyone catches it. And nobody gets a hall pass here. Staci does it. Tom does it. Brooke does it. You do too, probably in a way you'd never think to call defensive.So here's what we're after today: if defensiveness is supposed to protect us from getting hurt, how come everybody who leans on it ends up hurting more?We get into how fast this stuff moves. Staci says the emotional safety in your relationship doesn't wear down over years, it's gone in a nanosecond, and there's a balloon analogy in here you won't be able to unsee. Also why "that was never my intent" might be the most defensive thing you can say, even when it's true.And the part we'd stay for: there's one sentence that gets you out. Three words. It works mid-argument, it works when you're wrong, and it works when you're dead certain you're not. Not spoiling it here.Brooke tells the story of what her partner said to her about six years ago, the thing that rattled her more than anything else in their relationship. Including the part where she still couldn't admit he was right for months after. She's not the hero of that one and she tells it anyway.Fair warning: you might get a little defensive listening to a whole episode about defensiveness. Happens all the time. That's usually the good part.Press play before the next round of that same fight.A Quick Note: For the next several weeks we're bringing back the episodes you've asked for and downloaded the most. Our family is heads down on two things we can't wait to share with you: two brand-new resources we're putting the finishing touches on, and our very first international retreat in Tuscany, Italy. Brand-new episodes are back mid-September.Take the Better Love Quiz: If you can feel that something is off and you can't tell how serious it is, this is where to start. 22 questions, about five minutes, and you get an honest answer to the question you've been carrying around at 2:00 in the morning. You also get your skill score, so you know where to begin instead of guessing. Completely private. Only you see the results, and your partner is never contacted.betterlovequiz.comWork With Staci: If you know you need more support than a quiz right now, book a private session. This is exactly what we do with couples: helping them get better at emotional weightlifting so the same fight stops running the relationship.stacibartley.com/private-sessions

The Rebel News podcasts features free audio-only versions of select RebelNews+ content and other Rebel News long-form videos, livestreams, and interviews. Monday to Friday enjoy the audio version of Ezra Levant's daily TV-style show, The Ezra Levant Show, where Ezra gives you his contrarian and conservative take on free speech, politics, and foreign policy through in-depth commentary and interviews. Wednesday evenings you can listen to the audio version of The Gunn Show with Sheila Gunn Reid the Chief Reporter of Rebel News. Sheila brings a western sensibility to Canadian news. With one foot in the oil patch and one foot in agriculture, Sheila challenges mainstream media narratives and stands up for Albertans. If you want to watch the video versions of these podcasts, make sure to begin your free RebelNewsPlus trial by subscribing at http://www.RebelNewsPlus.com

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, we're diving deep into the rhythms of Gen X culture, Italian style, and the art of coastal winemaking with Elia Pellegrini, fourth-generation owner and vintner at Aia Vecchia—an estate rooted in the heart of Tuscany's vibrant wine scene. Raised among vineyards and steeped in classic traditions, Elia brings a fresh, modern vision to his family's legacy, where old-world philosophy meets the pulse of contemporary wine, food, and lifestyle.From memories of childhood football dreams and Sunday lunches heavy with wild boar and fresh pasta, to the complexities of selling Italian authenticity and navigating global wine markets, Elia's story is a celebration of legacy, evolution, and living la dolce vita. We dive into the nuances of Tuscan cuisine, the secrets behind Bolgheri's Bordeaux-inspired wines, and why Italy's next generation—whether on the vineyard or the soccer field—is all about balancing tradition, innovation, and a little bit of rock ‘n' roll swagger. Pour a glass, settle in, and get ready for a conversation that pairs perfectly with whatever's on your plate.For more information about Aia Vecchia Winer click the link!Follow Aia Vechhia on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world's most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town.Early Bird Ticket Sales are Live!Don't miss the premier event for winery direct-to-consumer sales and marketing—early-bird pricing for the DTC Wine Symposium in Monterey, CA, January 19-21, 2027 is now in effect until Labor Day. This year's event features an incredible lineup of visionary keynote speakers including André Huston Mack, Jermaine Stone, and Vinny Warren. Get ready to help your brand differentiate and build lasting consumer loyalty. In addition to our game-changing educational sessions and bootcamps, we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new golf tournament perfect for networking on the greens and our Cocktail party at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Register today by visiting: https://dtcwinesymposium.regfox.comSubscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine ReviewsThank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Third Grenache Festival will be held on November 7th, 2026 in Waitsburg, Washington. It will feature a blind tasting seminar, followed by three breakout sessions and, of course, live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun.For more information, go to GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh off a family vacation in Paris, Tuscany and Rome, Gina Livy gets real about what it actually means to get Back On Track after summer travel, indulgences and time away from routine. She shares why sustainable weight loss and maintenance are about so much more than food, exploring hydration, mindful eating, sleep, stress, movement, nervous system regulation and the everyday factors that affect how the body feels and responds. Gina also reframes “mindless” summer eating, talks through normal weight fluctuations and set point range, and reminds the Livy Community that enjoying life and staying focused on their goals don't have to be at odds. It's a timely conversation about mindfulness, getting back into routine and feeling your best without guilt, punishment or chasing perfection.This podcast aligns with August 17th of our Summer Club, members can find video in our Livy Method app or Summer Club Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/livymethodspring2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clint, Meg and Dan recap the Wahs big win and Luke Metcalf’s hamstring injury, then react to an AI-made fan song created with Suno and discuss how AI affects creativity. They preview a “Hit the Spot” idea tied to Alex Warren’s NZ shows and promote Olivia Dean tickets and the Festy Besty cue to call. Laura aces Quiz for Dummies, Beer and Carly take on Easy Money, and the Impostor game begins with Indy’s claim of a police helicopter landing on Christmas. Meg shares cringe-worthy breakup closure letters, Clint is challenged to make fire with two bamboo sticks for $1,000, and Cath explains being left seven days before her Tuscany wedding. Dan admits he lied about his age to an online PlayStation friend. 00:00 Morning Show Kickoff 00:20 Wahs Win Hype 01:52 AI Song From Fans 07:34 Olivia Dean Ticket Push 10:19 Scandal Roundup 13:08 Quiz For Dummies 15:54 Over 35 Moments 24:09 Easy Money Letter E 26:43 Imposter Story One 33:29 Closure Letters Confession 46:39 Clint the Flint Hype 24:19 Easy Money Letter T 52:39 Kath left before wedding 01:01:51 Dan’s Online Friend Lie

Dreaming of the ultimate European getaway? Join us as we recap Christy's family's epic 25-day European vacation! This episode dives deep into their incredible Adventures by Disney Italy tour, featuring exclusive pre-opening access to the Sistine Chapel, hands-on pasta making in Tuscany, and exploring iconic landmarks in Rome and Florence. Plus, Christy shares essential insights for navigating Disney travel, gluten-free dining in Europe, and the ABD difference before embarking on a Disney Cruise Line Mediterranean voyage. Whether you’re planning an Adventures by Disney package or a Disney Cruise Line vacation, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you cruise and travel smarter!HighlightsThe “Prequel” to Episode 544: How a 9-night Greek Isles Disney Dream cruise turned into a 25-day epic European land and sea adventure.Paris & Disneyland Paris Hits and Misses: Battling record-breaking heatwaves, visiting the Eiffel Tower at dusk, staying at the Disneyland Hotel, and navigating gluten-free dining at Disneyland Paris.Pre-Opening Vatican & Sistine Chapel Access: Experiencing the quiet magic of the Sistine Chapel with just their small group and learning insider fun facts about St. Peter’s Basilica.Tuscan Countryside & Hands-On Experiences: Making homemade pasta from scratch on a Tuscan farm, enjoying regional wine tastings, and handling unexpected hotel quirks (like running out of water!).Florence, Pisa & Gluten-Free Foodie Finds: Ditching the crowds to make a quick trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and finding amazing gluten-free dining and gelato across Italy.Want to be on the show? Fill out this form, and we'll be in contact with you real soon!https://dclpodcast.com/want-to-be-on-the-show/Support our show via Patreon:http://www.patreon.com/dclpodcastUse Christy's Travel Services:https://dclpodcast.com/book-with-christy/Follow the DCL Podcast via:http://www.facebook.com/dclpodcasthttp://www.instagram.com/dcl_podcastFollow Lake at:https://www.instagram.com/mouse.genhttps://www.youtube.com/@MouseGenFollow Christy at:http://www.packyourpixiedust.comhttps://www.instagram.com/packyourpixiedust

Wherever you're listening to this right now you're probably feeling the changes this summer in a big way. It's not only us here in the Mediterranean region of Europe who are experiencing record heat waves, droughts, and wildfires. I've been watching news reports from all over the world and the other day my Mom in Spokane Washington even told me that fires had nearly reached their home. I have no desire to go into the doom and gloom of climate reality, but we also can't ignore two very important things. The first being that massive action needs to be taken to restore the damaged ecosystems of the world, and two, governments and industries just aren't going to act fast enough. It falls to all of us to inform ourselves and get to work. This episode today is meant to help you do just that. Today I spoke with Lorenzo Costa who has been on the show a couple times already, but now that I'm in Italy and have been observing the effects of this severe summer weather, I knew I had to get in touch with him again and get his perspective as someone who travels the country working with growers of all types to restore the hydrological function and cycling of their land to build resilience in their operations. While it's worth going back to his previous episodes where he talks about his own vegetable operation in the Chianti region of Tuscany, as well as the water projects he was doing a few years ago, in this episode we get an update on the patterns and learnings from all the new projects he's seen and worked on recently.  Now that we've covered a lot about the concepts and theory behind watercycles and how they interact and are affected by landscape management, as well as how my colleague Nick Steiner and I assess and read a landscape ahead of a project, we're going to be focusing increasingly on practical restoration options and case studies from innovative farmers and restoration workers from around Europe. So let's jump right into this exploration of the current challenges and potential in Italy from Lorenzo

Ask Us A QuestionMet the right person, check. Got married, check. Bought the house, check. Had the kid, got the dog, put up the picket fence out front. Check, check, check.And then years in, somebody says, "I need some space. I can't do this anymore."And the other one is standing there going, what the hell? This wasn't the deal. I thought we were doing great. I thought we were knocking it out of the park.If you're the one who just got hit with those words, hold onto this number before your mind writes the ending for you. Only 5% of divorced people said nothing could have saved their marriage. The other 95% said skills and support could have changed everything. Your panic is quoting you the wrong number.This week we're replaying the most downloaded episode we've ever made. Our family is heads down finishing two new resources and getting ready for our first international retreat in Tuscany, and new episodes return mid-September.What we get into:What your partner is actually asking for when they say they need space. It's almost never the thing you're afraid it is, and once you hear it, the last several months rearrange themselves in your head.Why it didn't come out of left field, even though it hit you like it did. I tell on myself here. I was a master at making the relationship work for the other person. Never made a fuss, never said what wasn't working for me, and the whole time I thought I was doing the kindest thing I could do. I'll tell you what it cost me, and I'll tell you honestly that I've broken hearts over it.The thing I call the cruelest thing we can do to our lovers. It isn't cheating and it isn't lying. Most people are doing it right now believing it's the generous choice.What Brooke used to do the second a partner told them they weren't happy. She says it out loud, unedited, and then explains why it made everything worse. If you're the anxious one, this part is for you.The separation rules everybody is about to hand you. Move to the other bedroom, cut them off, no sex, no talking. I have some very direct words about that advice, and I'll give you the one thing that separates giving space from being abandoned.Why the more space you give, the more conversation you get back. It feels as backwards as turning into a skid, and Tom explains why every instinct you have will fight you on it.The six places to put your energy while you wait. I call what they build love insurance, and they happen to be the same things that put you back in the 95%.Whatever you were about to do tonight, listen first.Resources from this episode:Take the free Better Love Quiz (about 5 minutes, results instantly): https://betterlovequiz.comBook a private session with Staci: https://stacibartley.com/private-sessionsSchedule a clarity call with Tom: https://stacibartley.com/applyWe're live every Monday at 1:00 PM PST / 4:00 PM EST on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Come hang out and bring your questions.Remember: love isn't enough, but skills are. Learn them, practice them, and live them today.Timestamps: 02:54 Why Space Happens04:04 The Blindside Dynamic08:17 Losing Yourself Over Time11:42 What Space Really Means13:10 External Pressures Pile On16:28 95 Percent Can Recover18:30 Anxious Reactions to Avoid22:28 Give Space to Get Closer25:06 Handling Panic and Reassurance27:25 Your Turn for Self Work28:30 Reset the Dynamic29:13 Self Soothe Anxiety31:24 Emotional Gas Tank32:55 Six Support Pillars36:40 Space Dos and Donts39:12 No Punishment Rules42:07 Boundaries and Support46:29 Avoid Dating During Space47:00 Get Help and Resources

Trudie Mason is with Dan Delmar, co-founder of TNKR Media and co-host of the Inspiring Entrepreneurs Canada podcast, and Akil Alleyne, reporter, commentator, and manager of the GemStar Circle of Excellence Scholarship Program. Police Chief Fady Dagher faced community frustration after stating that fixing the culture at Station 39 could take up to ten years. A new Synopsis-Lapresse poll keeps the PQ ahead at thirty percent while the Quebec Conservatives surged up to fifteen percent. Premier Christine Fréchette convened crisis cells to prepare for the potential impact of looming fifty percent US trade tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney faced media backlash for vacationing in Tuscany while critical Canada-US trade negotiations continue.

Plant-Based Travel: Safari Adventures, Incredible Food and the Trip of a LifetimeExplore the world without leaving your healthy lifestyle behind. In this episode of NHA Today, Dr. Stephan Esser sits down with Wanda Huberman of the National Health Association and Brighde Reed of World Vegan Travel to explore the NHA's upcoming whole-food, plant-based travel adventures.From getting remarkably close to lions, elephants, hippos and giraffes on safari in Botswana to trekking to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in Rwanda, Wanda and Brighde share what makes these trips unforgettable. They also reveal what travelers can expect from the food, including abundant whole-food, plant-based, SOS-free meals, and why these small-group adventures can be a great option even for solo travelers.Plus, hear what's ahead for NHA Plant-Based Travel, including upcoming adventures in Botswana, Rwanda, France and Tuscany.Links and ResourcesNHA Plant-Based Travel: https://www.healthscience.org/plant-based-travel/Follow Dr. Esser on Instagram: @esserhealthNHA Today on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nationalhealthassociation

Things are getting scrumptious on O Lala! In RVA.

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Tuscany's Harvest Festival: Where Hearts and Traditions Unite Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-08-10-07-38-19-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole estivo splendeva alto sopra il piccolo borgo toscano, illuminando la piazza affollata.En: The summer sun was shining high above the small Tuscan village, lighting up the crowded piazza.It: Era Ferragosto, un giorno speciale per la cittadina, che celebrava con un festival del raccolto dell'uva.En: It was Ferragosto, a special day for the town, which celebrated with a grape harvest festival.It: Le bancarelle erano piene di artigianato locale, e la musica riempiva l'aria con una melodia vivace.En: The stalls were filled with local crafts, and music filled the air with a lively melody.It: Profumo di cucina toscana e di uva fresca danzava nell'aria, creando un'atmosfera magica.En: The scent of Tuscan cuisine and fresh grapes danced through the air, creating a magical atmosphere.It: Saverio, un artigiano del posto, osservava la folla.En: Saverio, a local artisan, observed the crowd.It: I suoi occhi seguivano i visitatori da uno dei tavoli accanto al palco principale.En: His eyes followed the visitors from one of the tables next to the main stage.It: Anche se era affascinato dalla cultura e dall'arte, spesso si tratteneva, timoroso di avvicinarsi troppo alla gente.En: Although he was fascinated by culture and art, he often held back, fearful of getting too close to people.It: Ma oggi il suo sguardo si posò su Chiara, una donna affascinante venuta dalla città.En: But today his gaze rested on Chiara, an intriguing woman who had come from the city.It: Chiara era avventurosa, alla ricerca di esperienze autentiche.En: Chiara was adventurous, in search of authentic experiences.It: Voleva scoprire la vera Italia, quella dei piccoli paesi e delle tradizioni secolari.En: She wanted to discover the true Italy, that of small towns and centuries-old traditions.It: Nonostante il suo entusiasmo, esitava a deviare dal suo piano di viaggio.En: Despite her enthusiasm, she hesitated to stray from her travel plan.It: Aveva programmato di ripartire presto, ma qualcosa in quella piazza le diceva di restare.En: She had planned to leave early, but something in that piazza told her to stay.It: Saverio si fece coraggio.En: Saverio mustered his courage.It: Con un profondo respiro, si avvicinò a Chiara.En: With a deep breath, he approached Chiara.It: "Ciao, sono Saverio," disse con un sorriso.En: "Hi, I'm Saverio," he said with a smile.It: "Vuoi vedere la parata del raccolto?"En: "Do you want to see the harvest parade?"It: Lei accettò con un cenno, curiosa della proposta.En: She accepted with a nod, curious about the proposal.It: La parata cominciava.En: The parade began.It: Trattori e carri adornati di grappoli d'uva sfilavano, mentre le persone ballavano al ritmo delle canzoni tradizionali.En: Tractors and carts adorned with grape clusters paraded by, while people danced to the rhythm of traditional songs.It: Saverio decise di fare un passo audace: prese la mano di Chiara e cominciò a ballare con lei.En: Saverio decided to take a bold step: he took Chiara's hand and began to dance with her.It: Fu una danza spontanea, circondati dalle risate e dall'allegria della festa.En: It was a spontaneous dance, surrounded by the laughter and joy of the festival.It: In quel momento, entrambi si sentirono vivi, come se il tempo si fosse fermato.En: In that moment, they both felt alive, as if time had stopped.It: Dopo il ballo, Chiara non poteva negare la connessione che si era creata.En: After the dance, Chiara couldn't deny the connection that had formed.It: "Forse posso restare un po' più a lungo," disse illuminandosi.En: "Maybe I can stay a little longer," she said, lighting up.It: Saverio la guardò con speranza.En: Saverio looked at her with hope.It: "Sarebbe bello esplorare insieme la città e... magari parlare un po' di arte," propose, sentendosi più sicuro.En: "It would be nice to explore the town together and... maybe talk a little about art," he suggested, feeling more confident.It: Così, Chiara prolungò la sua permanenza.En: Thus, Chiara extended her stay.It: Insieme scoprirono angoli nascosti del paese, gustarono cibi locali e conobbero gli abitanti del borgo.En: Together they discovered hidden corners of the town, enjoyed local foods, and met the inhabitants of the village.It: Saverio, che era sempre stato riservato, si aprì a nuove amicizie e avventure.En: Saverio, who had always been reserved, opened up to new friendships and adventures.It: Chiara, d'altra parte, imparò ad apprezzare la lenta quiete e le tradizioni ricche di quel piccolo angolo di Toscana.En: Chiara, on the other hand, learned to appreciate the slow quiet and the rich traditions of that small corner of Tuscany.It: Il legame tra loro diventò sempre più forte.En: The bond between them grew ever stronger.It: Nel cuore della Toscana, tra le dolci colline e i vigneti dorati, Chiara e Saverio trovarono qualcosa di speciale.En: In the heart of Tuscany, among the gentle hills and golden vineyards, Chiara and Saverio found something special.It: Un inizio.En: A beginning.It: E così, il festival dell'uva, con la sua musica e la sua festa, non solo celebrò il raccolto, ma segnò anche l'inizio di una bella storia tra Saverio e Chiara.En: And so, the grape festival, with its music and its celebration, not only celebrated the harvest but also marked the beginning of a beautiful story between Saverio and Chiara. Vocabulary Words:the sun: il solesummer: estivothe village: il borgocrowded: affollatathe festival: il festivalto celebrate: celebrarethe harvest: il raccoltothe stall: la bancarellacrafts: artigianatothe melody: la melodialively: vivacethe scent: il profumoto dance: danzaremagical: magicathe artisan: l'artigianothe gaze: lo sguardointriguing: affascinantethe proposal: la propostathe parade: la paratathe cluster: il grappoloto adorn: adornareto parade: sfilarethe joy: l'allegriathe connection: la connessioneto extend: prolungareto explore: esplorareto discover: scoprirethe tradition: la tradizionethe bond: il legamethe vineyard: il vigneto

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Finding Serenity in the Tuscan Hills: Luca's Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-08-09-07-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Luca aveva deciso di fare una pausa dal caos di Roma.En: Luca had decided to take a break from the chaos of Roma.It: Aveva portato con sé solo un piccolo zaino e un grande desiderio di trovare pace nella fattoria dei nonni, immersa nei colli toscani.En: He had brought with him only a small backpack and a strong desire to find peace at his grandparents' farm, nestled in the Tuscan hills.It: Era una calda mattina d'estate, il sole accarezzava i campi di girasoli e filari di viti.En: It was a warm summer morning, the sun caressing fields of sunflowers and rows of vines.It: Il profumo della terra e il canto delle cicale riempivano l'aria.En: The scent of the earth and the song of the cicadas filled the air.It: Appena arrivato, Luca fu accolto dalla nonna, Giulia, che lo abbracciò con calore.En: As soon as he arrived, Luca was welcomed by his grandmother, Giulia, who embraced him warmly.It: Il nonno Marco era già nei campi, intento a controllare le vigne.En: His grandfather Marco was already in the fields, busy checking the vineyards.It: "Vieni, ti do una mano a sistemare le tue cose," disse Giulia con un sorriso.En: "Come, I'll help you settle your things," Giulia said with a smile.It: Luca si sistemò in una piccola stanza con vista sulla campagna.En: Luca settled into a small room with a view of the countryside.It: Da lì, tutto sembrava sereno e perfetto.En: From there, everything seemed serene and perfect.It: Ma Luca sapeva che il vero lavoro lo attendeva fuori, e di questo aveva bisogno.En: But Luca knew that the real work awaited him outside, and this was what he needed.It: Voleva capire se una vita semplice potesse dargli la chiarezza che cercava.En: He wanted to understand if a simple life could give him the clarity he was seeking.It: Il primo giorno, Luca si alzò presto per aiutare il nonno.En: On the first day, Luca got up early to help his grandfather.It: Tagliare l'erba, raccogliere la frutta, curare le piante: il lavoro era duro e le mani di Luca si coprirono presto di vesciche.En: Mowing the grass, picking the fruit, tending the plants: the work was hard, and Luca's hands soon became blistered.It: Ma più lavorava, più la sua mente si liberava dei pensieri confusi e stressanti.En: But the more he worked, the more his mind freed itself from confusing and stressful thoughts.It: Con il passare dei giorni, si sentiva meno come un ospite e più come parte di qualcosa di più grande.En: As the days passed, he felt less like a guest and more like part of something bigger.It: Ferragosto si avvicinava, e la famiglia si preparava per la festa.En: Ferragosto was approaching, and the family was preparing for the celebration.It: Ma il cielo si oscurò, minacciando una tempesta.En: But the sky darkened, threatening a storm.It: Luca sapeva che il maltempo poteva rovinare i raccolti e mettere in difficoltà i suoi nonni.En: Luca knew that bad weather could ruin the crops and put his grandparents in difficulty.It: "Che facciamo, nonno?"En: "What do we do, grandfather?"It: chiese Luca, vedendo le nuvole scure all'orizzonte.En: Luca asked, seeing the dark clouds on the horizon.It: Marco guardò il campo con preoccupazione.En: Marco looked at the field with concern.It: "Dobbiamo proteggere ciò che possiamo.En: "We must protect what we can.It: Ogni mano conta."En: Every hand counts."It: In quel momento, Luca doveva scegliere.En: At that moment, Luca had to choose.It: Tornare alla sua vita confortevole o rimanere e affrontare la tempesta.En: Return to his comfortable life or stay and face the storm.It: Dentro di sé, sentì crescere un senso di responsabilità.En: Inside, he felt a sense of responsibility growing.It: Decise di rimanere.En: He decided to stay.It: Insieme, con Giulia e Marco, lavorarono sodo per proteggere i raccolti.En: Together, with Giulia and Marco, they worked hard to protect the crops.It: Si mossero veloci, coprirono le piante più delicate e misero al riparo gli attrezzi.En: They moved quickly, covered the most delicate plants, and took tools to shelter.It: La pioggia arrivò presto, violenta, ma passarono la notte con la speranza nel cuore.En: The rain arrived soon, violent, but they spent the night with hope in their hearts.It: La mattina seguente, il cielo era limpido, e il sole tornò a splendere su una campagna bagnata, ma salva.En: The next morning, the sky was clear, and the sun shone once more over a wet but safe countryside.It: I raccolti erano stati protetti e, a sorpresa, la tempesta non aveva causato danni irreparabili.En: The crops had been protected and, surprisingly, the storm had not caused irreparable damage.It: Luca sentì un profondo sollievo mescolato a una nuova consapevolezza.En: Luca felt a deep relief mixed with a new awareness.It: Abbracciò il nonno, grato per la lezione che aveva imparato.En: He hugged his grandfather, grateful for the lesson he had learned.It: Non si trattava solo del lavoro, ma del legame con la terra e le persone che condividono le tue giornate.En: It was not just about the work, but about the connection to the land and the people who share your days.It: Quando Ferragosto arrivò, la famiglia si sedette insieme per la festa.En: When Ferragosto arrived, the family sat together for the celebration.It: A tavola, tra risate e buon cibo, Luca si rese conto che quella era la serenità che cercava.En: At the table, amidst laughter and good food, Luca realized that this was the serenity he was seeking.It: La semplicità, l'onestà del lavoro e l'amore della famiglia: ora tutto aveva un senso.En: Simplicity, the honesty of labor, and the love of family: now everything made sense.It: Luca tornò a Roma con un cuore più leggero e una mente chiara.En: Luca returned to Roma with a lighter heart and a clear mind.It: Sapeva che, qualunque fosse la sua scelta futura, avrebbe portato con sé la forza e il calore della vita contadina.En: He knew that, whatever his future choice might be, he would carry with him the strength and warmth of the farming life. Vocabulary Words:the chaos: il caosthe farm: la fattoriathe hills: i collithe scent: il profumothe fields: i campithe vineyards: le vigneto settle: sistemarethe room: la stanzathe countryside: la campagnato mow: tagliareto pick: raccoglierethe plants: le piantethe blisters: le vescichethe guest: l'ospiteFerragosto: Ferragostothe sky: il cielothe storm: la tempestathe clouds: le nuvolethe horizon: l'orizzontethe responsibility: la responsabilitàthe rain: la pioggiathe tools: gli attrezzito shelter: mettere al riparothe crops: i raccoltithe damage: i dannithe relief: il sollievothe awareness: la consapevolezzathe lesson: la lezionethe land: la terrathe simplicity: la semplicità

Alex von Tunzelmann and Steve Crawshaw join Emma Nelson to discuss the week’s biggest stories. We also hear from Tyler Brûlé in Tuscany and Alexei Korolyov with the latest from Vienna. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, James and Will are joined by cyclist and author Simon Warren. It seems mad to think it, but when the idea of a clickbait listicle was just a twinkle in the internet's eye, Simon was busy writing an actual book about cycling, which quickly became the text that defined a genre: 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs released in 2010. Featuring everything from Box Hill to Bealach na Bà, 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs documented – you guessed it –one hundred of the greatest cycling climbs across Britain in meticulous style, from statistics and geography to descriptions of the roads themselves. Simon has written more than a dozen books since, all dedicated to discovering and documenting the best climbs around the world, from Tour de France stalwarts to dusty tracks in Tuscany and cobbled bergs in Belgium.In this episode, Simon talk about what makes good climb good but a great climb better; elevation versus length; the importance of the struggle; how Simon finds his climbs; how to plan your attack on a daunting climb; and of course, what the best climbs in the world are. Simon has just re-released an updated version of Cycling Climbs of Scotland (Adventure Books). Plus, you can check out all of Simon's UK climbs in his one mega app, 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs App, available in all the usual places.Chat begins at 5.57------------------This episode is brought to you by Boyd Cycling, whose full range of hand-built wheels can be found at boydcycling.com......and the Maserati Grecale SUV car. For more information, go to maserati.com------------------Did you know Cyclist is also stunning monthly print magazine?Subscribe now at store.cyclist.co.uk/cycpod and get every issue for less than in the shops, delivered straight to your doorWe're also a really lovely website about everything road cycling and gravel. Check us out at cyclist.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever fantasize about quitting your 9-to-5 to move to Italy? Michelle DiBenedetto-Capobianco built something better—a life split between two places she loves. The corporate lawyer turned travel and culinary entrepreneur divides her time between a cooking school on Long Island and leading small-group trips through under-the-radar Italy—Abruzzo, Puglia, the Dolomites, and beyond. We dig into her full identity pivot and the Italy tourists overlook on their way to Tuscany. Plus: a farro-peach salad you'll want to make tonight, why "traveling deeper" beats checking boxes on a bucket list, and the one-line mantra that can help you reinvent your own life. Let's wander, beauties.

Nothing says summer like a nice, crisp white wine, and in this episode, we cover one of the greats that you may never have heard of called Vermentino. Vermentino is a fabulous wine most famously from the island of Sardinia that is a perfect summer sipper. Vermentino is also likely to be a wine that you start seeing more often because it comes from a grape that creates these crisp, high acidic wines, but can take the heat in warmer climates and keep its acidity. In addition to digging into Vermentino and tasting and reviewing a couple of great wines you should be on the lookout for, we also talk about the criteria that make a great summer sipper and we give you a short list of some other wines to look out for. Summer isn't over yet! Enjoy it while it's here! Wines reviewed in this episode: 2024 ColleMassari Melacce Vermentino, 2022 Tommasi Poggio al Tufo VermentinoSend us a Text Message and we'll respond in our next episode!Contact The Wine Pair Podcast - we'd love to hear from you!Visit our website, leave a review, and reach out to us:  https://thewinepairpodcast.com/Follow and DM us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinepairpodcast/Send us an email: joe@thewinepairpodcast.com

What if consciousness isn't something that emerges from the brain—but is embedded in the fabric of reality itself?That's the provocative idea behind panpsychism— that consciousness goes all the way down to the fundamental building blocks of the cosmos. Philosopher Philip Goff, one of panpsychism's leading advocates, argues that it offers the best solution to one of science's deepest mysteries: how consciousness arises at all. We also hear  from novelist Philip Pullman, whose  fantasy series His Dark Materials was partly inspired by panpsychism. Goff reflects on another surprising development in his own thinking: his recent turn toward the Eastern Orthodox Church and what he calls "heretical Christianity.” He also describes how a profound  psychedelic experience shook him to the core—and may have revealed a deeper reality. The first interview with Goff was recorded at the Island of Knowledge think tank in Tuscany, a project supported by Dartmouth College and the John Templeton Foundation. The interview with Philip Pullman originally aired on Wisconsin Public Radio's To The Best Of Our Knowledge. This Wonder Cabinet episode was not funded, endorsed or affiliated with Wisconsin Public Media or the University of Wisconsin-Madison.—00:00:00 Introduction00:04:00 What Is Panpsychism?00:17:30 Heretical Christianity00:29:40 A Psychedelic Awakening00:38:25 The Conscious Universe, Confirmed— Philip Goff's website.  Books Podcast: "Phillip Goff Philosophy" TTBOOK: "His Dark Materials' Author Philip Pullman On The Consciousness Of All Things" Wonder Cabinet is hosted by Anne Strainchamps and Steve Paulson. Find out more about the show at https://wondercabinetproductions.com, where you can subscribe to the podcast and our newsletter.

A paraplegic man and his best friend set off on a trip that could redefine what accessibility means. Meet the CNN Hero protecting mountain gorillas by empowering their human neighbors. Researchers are heading to a remote Pacific island hoping to solve the decades-old mystery of what happened to Amelia Earhart. Women's professional baseball begins a historic new chapter in front of a sold-out crowd. Plus, we'll tell you why thousands gather in Tuscany for one of Italy's most charming races.  Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco  Producer: Eryn Mathewson   Senior Producer: Zach Goldbaum, Felicia Patinkin  Editorial Support: Laura Sharman, Kathleen Toner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A paraplegic man and his best friend set off on a trip that could redefine what accessibility means. Meet the CNN Hero protecting mountain gorillas by empowering their human neighbors. Researchers are heading to a remote Pacific island hoping to solve the decades-old mystery of what happened to Amelia Earhart. Women's professional baseball begins a historic new chapter in front of a sold-out crowd. Plus, we'll tell you why thousands gather in Tuscany for one of Italy's most charming races.  Host/Producer: Krista Bo Polanco  Producer: Eryn Mathewson   Senior Producer: Zach Goldbaum, Felicia Patinkin  Editorial Support: Laura Sharman, Kathleen Toner  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Palio di Siena is far more than a horse race. It is a living medieval ritual that still defines the identity of an entire city. Twice each summer, on 2 July and 16 August, ten bareback horses thunder around the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo while thousands of Sienese scream for their contrada. The prize is a painted silk banner — the palio itself — but the real stakes are pride, rivalry, and centuries of memory.The word palio comes from the Latin pallium, a precious cloth given as the victor's prize. The earliest documented horse race in Siena dates to 1239, when a man named Ristoro was fined for refusing the humiliating consolation prize (a pig) awarded to the last-place finisher. Even earlier references suggest races existed by the beginning of the thirteenth century, often linked to the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin on 15 August. These early contests were known as the Palio alla lunga — the “long Palio.” Riders raced along a straight course that began outside the city walls near Porta Romana and finished in front of the cathedral. The race was dangerous, chaotic, and deeply tied to civic and religious life.Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Siena's public entertainments were violent and varied: fist-fighting (pugna), jousting, and especially bull hunts organized by the city's districts, the contrade. When the Grand Duke of Tuscany banned bullfighting in 1590, the contrade needed a new outlet for their fierce competitiveness. They began staging neighborhood races with buffaloes (bufalate) and later donkeys. Gradually these contests moved into the Piazza del Campo.The decisive shift came in the seventeenth century. In 1633, because of plague and the absence of horses normally sent by Italian nobles, authorities organized a circular horse race — a Palio alla tonda — inside the Campo itself. Five contrade took part; Tartuca won. This is widely regarded as the first true ancestor of the modern Palio. By 1656–1659 the July race in honor of the Madonna of Provenzano had become an annual event. The August race, dedicated to the Assumption, was added later and eventually fixed on 16 August so it would not conflict with other religious ceremonies.The modern structure solidified in the eighteenth century. In 1721 the city's governing body issued detailed regulations that still shape the race today. In 1729–1730, Princess Violante of Bavaria, governor of Siena, fixed the number of contrade at seventeen and precisely defined their boundaries, ending centuries of territorial disputes. Only ten of the seventeen run in each Palio: the seven that did not race in the previous corresponding event, plus three drawn by lot.The old linear Palio alla lunga lingered into the nineteenth century but was finally abolished in 1874. By then the circular race in the Campo had become the undisputed heart of Sienese life. It survived wars, political upheaval, and modernization because it belongs not to the state or to tourists, but to the contrade themselves. Each district is a self-contained community with its own church, museum, fountain, and lifelong loyalties. Winning the Palio is the highest honor a contrada can achieve; losing to a hated rival is a wound that lasts for years.Today the pageantry remains intensely medieval: the historic procession in costume, the blessing of the horse in the contrada church, the tense mossa (the chaotic start), and the three wild laps around the Campo. Yet the Palio is not a reconstruction. It is a continuous tradition that has adapted without ever losing its essential character. For the Sienese, it is not a spectacle performed for outsiders. It is the annual reaffirmation of who they are — a people whose identity is still measured in the thunder of hooves on the stones of the Campo.More Podcasts

This is a replay, and it is one of my favorites.A while back I was in Italy for Marmomac, the natural stone show in Verona, sponsored by the Italian Trade Agency. I added almost two weeks onto the trip and traveled alone through Verona, Bologna, Florence, the hillsides of Tuscany, Milan, and Lake Como.I did not bring my computer.One night in Florence, walking home from dinner past the Duomo, I heard a woman singing in the middle of the street. I stopped, I listened, and then I pulled out my iPhone and started recording this episode. No notes. No agenda. No plan. Just me telling you what was happening as it happened.I finished it days later in Milan.If your projects are starting to look like everybody else's projects, this one is for you.Why designers lose their creativityCreativity is not a talent problem. It is a fuel problem. Most of us run the business until the creative tank is empty, then wonder why the work feels flat. I talk about what it felt like to be at a crossroads with my business, my life, and my design aesthetic all at the same time.Social media is a sea of samenessSomeone posts a reel that performs. Everybody copies the reel. Someone builds a room that is easy to design and gets attention. Everybody builds the room. I explain why I took social media off my phone for this trip, and why it is the last place to look when you need to find your own point of view.Stop copying someone else's signature lookThere is nothing wrong with having a signature look. There is a lot wrong with wearing someone else's. When you copy another designer's signature, you devalue your own creativity, your own business, and your own intellectual property.What Michelangelo's unfinished figures taught me about feeling stuckI paid for a tour guide just to skip the line and see David. Ten minutes in, she said let's go. I told her to go on without me and stayed another twenty minutes. In that entryway there are half-carved figures still trying to pull themselves out of the marble, sitting there unfinished for five hundred years. That is most of us.Then the question that reframed the whole trip: did Michelangelo carve David based on what everybody else was doing?What is your David?The one thing you do that no one else in your market does. If you cannot name a clear, inspiring distinction between you and every other designer out there, stop what you are doing and figure that out first. Write it down. Then show the world.What is your Italy?You do not need a plane ticket. You do need time alone. Not with your kids, not with your husband or wife, not with your clients, not with your trades. Alone. A day at a coffee shop, one night in a hotel two hours from your house, a sketchbook and no phone. That is the magic time.The expectations you never told anyone aboutI walked into that trip carrying expectations that other people did not know I had set for them. Letting those go changed my travel days, and then it changed my client meetings, my calls, and my job sites.A thought is just a thought. The trouble starts when you turn it into a feeling.When a contractor told me I was charging too muchEarly in my career a general contractor told me I was charging way more than any other design firm in the area. It rattled me enough that I went back and looked at the data. I was not wrong. If someone cannot value what you bring to a project, that is information about the fit, not about your pricing.Nobody pulls a designer off a rack. Deliverables, skill, and talent come first. Price comes second.Choosing peace in the middle of a chaotic projectFurniture arrives late. Trades do not show. A big city is loud on a Saturday morning. You still get to decide whether you are the calm one. That is not a personality trait, it is leadership, and your client is watching for it.What Italy changed about my own workGreenery spilling off third-story balconies. Vintage plates on a table that looks like it belongs in a garden. Natural materials and a softer, more relaxed hand. I am not giving up my metallics, but I came home wanting to bring more feeling into the work.Because a beautiful room without connection is not a win for anybody.The one thing I want you to take with youIf you are 10 or 15 years into this business, go back to the beginning and ask yourself why you got into it. It was the creative part. If that is missing right now, that is fixable.Your business is built on your specific, very unique artistic genius and your intellectual property. Never turn that into a commodity.Mentioned in this episode: Marmomac (Verona), the Italian Trade Agency, Michelangelo's David and the Prisoners at the Galleria dell'Accademia in Florence, Milan's vertical garden architecture.Want the longer version of this conversation? It is the whole reason I wrote The Designer Within. Order a signed copy: https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithinText Me a Message!FREE VIDEO TRAINING DIRECT FROM JOHN:Design feels natural.The business side doesn't.Join this free 39-minute training for interior designers and learn the 3 secrets to building a profitable, stress-free design business without burnout or chaos.

Sixty years before "drink less, but better" became an industry mantra, one man in Tuscany was already living it. His grandson has spent his whole career proving him right. In this episode, Pierre sits down with Giovanni Folonari, of Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari Tenute, the family behind four distinct Tuscan estates built on a single conviction: that quality can't be rented, it has to be owned. The conversation moves through Nozzole, the Chianti Classico estate where clay soil and history run deep; Tenute del Cabreo, the Supertuscan project that dared to plant Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay and even Pinot Noir on Sangiovese ground; Campo al Mare, the family's late but decisive bet on Bolgheri; and Tenuta La Fuga, the smallest estate in the portfolio and home to a Brunello Riserva named for two sisters. Along the way, Giovanni talks candidly about the family decision to walk away from an easier, more recognisable business, what it actually takes to grow Pinot Noir outside Burgundy, and why hospitality became part of the estate's identity long before the rest of the wine world caught on. Want more? A bonus episode, going deeper into the family's history, the technical side of the cellar, and a side of Giovanni that has nothing to do with wine at all, is available exclusively at readbetweenthewines.com. Featuring: Chianti Classico, Supertuscan, Bolgheri, Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Sangiovese, family winery, Italian fine wine, terroir, wine and hospitality.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode of “Kimberly's Italy,” Tommaso and Kimberly embark on a culinary journey across Italy, exploring how pizza transforms across the country's 20 distinct regions.Key Points:Regional Pizza Variations:Italy's diverse geography and history are reflected in its pizza, with each region offering unique toppings, dough preparation, and baking methods.From the hearty mountain-style pies in Val d'Aosta topped with fontina and prosciutto to the Roman “pizza al taglio” sold by weight, the concept of a “national” pizza is more of a local mosaic.Tommaso and Kimberly discuss regional specialties such as panzerotti in Lombardia, the “pizza gourmet” style of the Veneto, and the Mediterranean-Alpine fusion found in Friuli Venezia Giulia.Culinary Philosophy:The hosts highlight the “less is more” approach in Tuscany, where quality ingredients take center stage, contrasting with the more experimental or historic traditions found elsewhere.The conversation touches on the specific rules of the “pizza napolitana” protected by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napolitana, representing the gold standard of the craft.The hosts share personal anecdotes, including their experiences with local ingredients and their occasional confusion over unconventional toppings like potatoes or French fries.The “Pizza Tour”:The episode serves as a geographical tour starting from the Alps in the north and moving down to the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.Each region reveals how climate, history, and local agriculture—from Alpine cheeses to coastal seafood—shape the local menu.Reflections and Future Plans:Tommaso and Kimberly share excitement about their upcoming road trips to explore these regional flavors in person.Looking ahead, the hosts tease a future episode focused on Italy's history of stone and marble, moving beyond food to the architectural foundations of the country.Join us in this episode as Tommaso and Kimberly provide an engaging, appetite-inducing look at the local identities behind Italy's most popular dish.

Some places capture your imagination. Italy captures your heart. If you've ever dreamed of experiencing Italy beyond the guidebooks, this is the journey you've been waiting for.Join Becky and Marcello Simone of Viaggi Italiani, together with Anne Robichaud, your expert guide to the hidden treasures of Umbria, on an unforgettable 10-day Fall 2026 Small Group Art & Cultural Tour through the heart of Italy. Carefully designed for travelers who value authentic experiences, meaningful connections, and the joy of slowing down, this experience is an invitation to experience Italy as a welcomed guest. You'll enjoy exclusive experiences that include private guided walks, cooking alongside local chefs, wine tastings at family-owned wineries, visits with artisans, hidden villages, Renaissance masterpieces, and extraordinary meals that celebrate the flavors and traditions of Italy. You'll even be part of the historic 800th anniversary commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi, a once-in-a-generation celebration filled with cultural and spiritual events. Adding another extraordinary dimension to the journey is Jane Adams, President and CEO of Artemisia Gold, whose work restoring the forgotten masterpieces of Renaissance women artists has inspired an international movement. Throughout the tour, you'll discover the remarkable legacy of Plautilla Nelli, the first known woman painter of Florence, while helping support the preservation of these priceless works of art. Becky, Marcello, Anne, and Jane share the stories behind this remarkable journey and why they created it. And find out what makes it so different from traditional tours and why 2026 is an extraordinary time to experience Italy.This isn't about rushing from one famous landmark to another. This amazing tour is about wandering medieval streets, sharing meals with new friends, discovering hidden artistic treasures, meeting the people who keep Italy's traditions alive, and returning home with memories that will stay with you forever.Space is intentionally limited to create an intimate, personalized experience and reservations are now open.If Italy has been calling your name...This is your invitation.Listen to the episode then reserve your place on this extraordinary Fall 2026 journey with Becky, Marcello, Anne, and Jane for the journey of a lifetime. Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler. 

Steve Crampton from the Thomas More Society on the case of the Pro-Life dad v Biden's DOJ. Shrines and Wonders Wednesday takes you to Pienza, in the province of Siena, Tuscany. Joan Lewis highlights her trip to Castel Gandolfo. Plus, T's Two Sense welcomes Vanessa Denha-Garmo as she and Teresa discuss Fauci and the Senate Covid hearing...and Michael O'Neill (the Miracle Hunter) joins to discuss two new cases for ecclesiastical study.

Send us Fan MailMy guest today is Kerry Chaput, author of The Secret Courtesan, listed in the Visual Arts category on Art In Fiction.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fkX-QqvmnQgPremise for the novel: how a marble Venetian sculpture, surfacing after 400 years and credited to a male artist, sends Mia, a modern-day arts authenticator looking for the woman she is sure had carved it.Kerry found documented women painters of the Renaissance and Baroque, but no large-scale women sculptors, and decided that gap in the record was the story worth telling.Artemisia's dusty painting: the real-life rediscovery of an Artemisia Gentileschi painting in a Hampton Court storage room, proof that misattributed women's art isn't just a plot device.Veronica Franco and the real courtesans: how the film Dangerous Beauty and its real-life subject, Renaissance Venice's premier courtesan, inspired the character of Sofia, and why courtesans had more freedom, education, and political access than "respectable" women of the era.Pitched as The Da Vinci Code with a feminist twist: the puzzles and cliffhangers built into Mia's modern timeline, and why Kerry had to finish writing Sofia's 1609 story before she could solve Mia's.Zero outline, one nice bow: Kerry's pantser process from first page to last, alternating between timelines and following "wormholes" even when they lead nowhere.The hardest research wasn't the history: why untangling art authentication, auction houses, and international law was tougher than 17th-century Venice, and how friends in the art world helped her build a plausible Sotheby's-style plot.A law against something means someone was doing it: the logic behind laws barring women from studying art and obtaining materials, and what that says about who was quietly doing both anyway.Writing women who already have a voice: why Kerry skipped the "she finds her voice" arc for Sofia, and how a story about a woman claiming power she already has changes the whole shape of the narrative.Reading from The Secret Courtesan: a 2 a.m. library scene between Mia and fellow historian Noah as her theory about the sculptor's true identity finally comes out.What's next: Kerry's ongoing Substack, Badass Women in History, and her continued fascination with the women the historical record left out.Read more from Kerry Chaput on her Substack, Badass Women in History: https://kerrychaput.substack.com/Are you enjoying The Art In Fiction Podcast? Consider giving us a small donation so we can continue bringing you interviews with your favorite arts-inspired novelists.  Click this link to donate: https://ko-fi.com/artinfiction.Also, check out Art In Fiction at https://www.artinfiction.com and explore 2500+ novels inspired by the arts in 11 categories: Architecture, Dance, Decorative Arts, Film, Literature, Music, Photography, Textile Arts, Theater, Visual Arts, & Other.Want to learn more about Carol Cram, the host of The Art In Fiction Podcast? She's the author of several award-winning novels, including The Towers of Tuscany, A Woman of Note, The Muse of Fire, and The Choir. Check out her website...

Send us Fan MailLong before "Super Tuscan" became a marketing term, the winemakers of Carmignano were already blending Cabernet into their Sangiovese — a tradition that reportedly dates back to Caterina de' Medici in the 16th century. In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders, we sit down with Silvia Vannucci, proprietor of Piaggia in Poggio a Caiano, Tuscany, alongside John Fodera of Tuscan Vines, to explore one of Italy's smallest and most historic wine appellations.Silvia shares the story of how her father, Mauro Vannucci, bought land in 1975 simply to build a house — and ended up founding one of Carmignano's benchmark estates. We walk through the full Piaggia lineup, from the flagship Carmignano Riserva to the standout Cabernet Franc bottling Poggio de' Colli, talk terroir, evolving winemaking styles, and why Carmignano remains better known abroad than in its own backyard.Whether you're a longtime Tuscan wine collector or completely new to Carmignano, this conversation is your primer on a region with roots stretching back to the Etruscans — and a 1716 legal decree from Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici to prove it.In this episode:The accidental origins of PiaggiaWhy Carmignano may be the original "Super Tuscan"A walkthrough of the Piaggia wine portfolioTerroir, tradition, and reducing oak in modern winemakingFood pairings and Silvia's life as Piaggia's global ambassador

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Bridging Tradition and Technology in the Heart of Tuscany Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-07-26-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole toscano splendeva caldo sul vigneto, i suoi raggi dorati accarezzavano le viti rigogliose, cariche di uva quasi pronta per il raccolto.En: The Toscano sun shone warmly on the vineyard, its golden rays caressing the lush vines laden with grapes almost ready for harvest.It: Il profumo dolce delle uve mature riempiva l'aria, mentre in lontananza si udiva il suono delle cicale.En: The sweet aroma of ripe grapes filled the air, while in the distance the sound of cicadas could be heard.It: Il podere di famiglia, un'antica casa colonica, era vivace di attività.En: The family estate, an ancient farmhouse, was bustling with activity.It: Chiara, la responsabile del vigneto, osservava attentamente il fermento delle preparazioni per la festa della vendemmia che si avvicinava.En: Chiara, the vineyard manager, was attentively observing the fervor of preparations for the upcoming harvest festival.It: Chiara era una donna dedita a mantenere la tradizione e l'eredità familiare.En: Chiara was a woman dedicated to maintaining family tradition and heritage.It: Stava controllando una lista, assicurandosi che tutto fosse a posto.En: She was checking a list, ensuring everything was in place.It: Suo fratello minore, Luca, la raggiunse con un entusiasmo che lei conosceva bene.En: Her younger brother, Luca, joined her with an enthusiasm she knew well.It: Luca era innamorato delle idee moderne e voleva innovare il metodo di raccolta, una proposta che Chiara considerava rischiosa.En: Luca was enamored with modern ideas and wanted to innovate the harvesting method, a proposal Chiara considered risky.It: "Chiara, dobbiamo provare le nuove macchine per la vendemmia," propose Luca, cercando di convincerla con i benefici della tecnologia.En: "Chiara, we must try the new harvesting machines," proposed Luca, trying to convince her of the benefits of technology.It: "Potremo raccogliere più velocemente e meglio."En: "We could harvest faster and better."It: Chiara sospirò, preoccupata.En: Chiara sighed, worried.It: "Luca, la qualità del vino è fondamentale.En: "Luca, the quality of the wine is fundamental.It: Non possiamo rischiare di compromettere tutto per una novità."En: We can't risk compromising everything for a novelty."It: Il loro amica Elena, una vinificatrice esperta, si unì al dialogo.En: Their friend Elena, an experienced winemaker, joined the conversation.It: Elena aveva sempre sostenuto chiara nella difesa delle tradizioni, ma riconosceva anche la necessità di evolversi.En: Elena had always supported Chiara in defending traditions, but she also recognized the necessity of evolving.It: "Forse possiamo trovare un equilibrio," suggerì Elena calma.En: "Perhaps we can find a balance," suggested Elena calmly.It: "Possiamo usare le tue idee, Luca, ma in modo controllato."En: "We can use your ideas, Luca, but in a controlled way."It: Con l'arrivo della festa, le decisioni urgenti non potevano più aspettare.En: With the arrival of the festival, urgent decisions could no longer wait.It: Chiara, dopo molte riflessioni, decise di dare una possibilità alle innovazioni di Luca, ma solo sotto l'attenta supervisione di Elena.En: Chiara, after much reflection, decided to give Luca's innovations a chance, but only under Elena's careful supervision.It: Il giorno della festa, il vigneto era un tripudio di colori e suoni.En: On the day of the festival, the vineyard was a riot of colors and sounds.It: Gli ospiti assaggiavano il vino, lodando la perfetta fusione tra antiche tecniche e metodi moderni.En: Guests tasted the wine, praising the perfect blend of ancient techniques and modern methods.It: Il successo era evidente e il nome del vigneto fu elogiato per l'equilibrio tra tradizione e innovazione.En: The success was evident, and the vineyard's name was lauded for its balance between tradition and innovation.It: Chiara osservava la scena, sollevata.En: Chiara watched the scene, relieved.It: Aveva imparato che l'innovazione non significava necessariamente abbandonare la tradizione.En: She had learned that innovation didn't necessarily mean abandoning tradition.It: Luca si avvicinò, sorridendo.En: Luca approached, smiling.It: "Abbiamo fatto un buon lavoro, insieme," disse lui.En: "We did a good job, together," he said.It: "È vero," rispose Chiara con un sorriso sincero mentre Elena annuiva soddisfatta.En: "That's true," replied Chiara with a sincere smile as Elena nodded satisfied.It: Il vigneto era pronto per un altro anno di gloria, uno che avrebbe unito passato e futuro in un'unica storia di successo.En: The vineyard was ready for another year of glory, one that would unite past and future in a single success story. Vocabulary Words:the vineyard: il vignetothe vineyard manager: la responsabile del vignetothe farmhouse: la casa colonicathe harvest: il raccoltothe grapes: l'uvathe aroma: il profumothe cicadas: le cicalethe estate: il poderethe fervor: il fermentothe tradition: la tradizionethe heritage: l'ereditàthe innovation: l'innovazionethe method: il metodothe supervision: la supervisionethe festival: la festathe decision: la decisionethe success: il successothe guest: l'ospitethe blend: la fusionethe past: il passatothe future: il futurothe scene: la scenathe glory: la gloriathe winemaker: la vinificatricethe quality: la qualitàthe proposal: la propostathe balance: l'equilibriothe rays: i raggithe machines: le macchinethe sounds: i suoni

Non Rev Lounge: Arizona Meetup Plans and Monique's Italy Trip, Part 1Tyler, Monique, and intern Lara return to record in Tyler's mostly empty house after a slow July of publishing due to busy schedules and monsoon weather, then discuss non-rev travel logistics and costs, including full London return flights and upgrade taxes, United's added fees, and airport lounge experiences in Philadelphia before their Europe trip. They announce an August 8 Arizona meetup with a Salt River float and dinner near Mesa Gateway Airport, sharing practical tips (water shoes, towels/sheets for hot tubs, sunscreen, hats, no glass, and hydration) and noting limited public transportation and carpool needs. Monique begins recounting a family trip to Italy tied to Zachary and Natalie scouting wedding villas, detailing challenging standby routing to Zurich and Florence, trains to the Livorno coast (Castiglioncello), and a Tuscany e-bike tour with steep hills, wine tasting, and scenic views, setting up a two-part episode.00:00 Show Planning Intro01:00 Welcome Back Empty House01:59 Monsoon Stories Airport Ops04:04 London Loads Taxes Upgrades07:43 Meetup Announcement Details09:16 Salt River Float Tips12:50 Carpool Logistics Dinner Plan17:02 Meetup Memories Shoutouts18:52 Southwest Red Eye Hawaii Talk23:38 Italy Trip Origins Routing31:33 Sneaking Into Lounges31:55 Sapphire Lounge Wellness33:23 Business vs Premium Economy35:49 Emotional Flight Moments37:29 Zurich Connection Chaos40:42 Standby Win on Swiss42:44 Arriving in Coastal Italy49:15 First Night Food and Gelato52:04 Tuscany E-Bike Adventure01:02:54 Route Explorer Trip Planning01:06:06 Meetup Plug and SponsorBecome a StaffTraveler Esim Ambassador https://esimambassadors.stafftraveler.com/Check out Route Explore from StaffTraveler   https://route-explorer.com/StaffTraveler wants our feedback to help build Route Explore before it is officially released.  Send any feedback to support@stafftraveler.comStaffTraveler is offering a 10% code for any of our listeners who buy their eSIM.Use the Promo code ST10NONREVLOUNGE  https://share.stafftraveler.com/nrl-esim✈StaffTraveler is a great app that can assist your non-rev travels! Use it to find the loads for your non-rev travel! Use this to sign up:https://stafftraveler.com/nonrevlounge

Send us Fan MailMy guest today is Nancy Burkhalter, author of The Education of Delhomme, listed in the Music category on Art In Fiction.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RNohgRLMv4cWhy Chopin needed a piano tuner: how Nancy, tuning pianos herself while listening to Chopin, realized he "had to have" one, and that's how the novel's narrator, Delhomme, was born.Blending fact and fiction: the wall-sized timeline, real history on top, novel's action below, that kept Delhomme's Paris anchored to the actual events of 1848 without letting fiction outrun fact.A poor man's bargain: why Delhomme, broke and desperate, falls prey to Vidocq, the monarchy's real-life spymaster, and agrees to spy on George Sand, the very woman he ends up competing with for Chopin's attention.Writing an unsympathetic narrator: Nancy's surprise at hearing Delhomme called an anti-hero, and why she never saw him that way, just a man doing what he had to do.Falling out of love with George Sand, then back in: how Nancy resented Sand for leaving Chopin, until a visit to Sand's home at Nohant, complete with a puppet theater Sand built for her son, turned her around, and why she gave Sand her own voice through diary entries woven into the book.Tuning by ear, writing by feel: what years as a working piano tuner taught her about touch and temperament, and how much of that craft to hand readers without losing them.The piano as character: why the instruments in the novel feel like living things, wood that expands and contracts, vulnerable to a fireplace or a spilled glass of wine, and how a tuner's instincts shaped Delhomme's reactions to Chopin's world.Finding Chopin's real tuner: a thin, out-of-print book written by the daughter of Chopin's actual piano tuner, discovered by chance in a University of Washington library.Vidocq, the spy who wrote himself: how the real historical spymaster, found in a reference book called Spies, handed Nancy a ready-made thriller plot, con-man origins and all, that she couldn't have invented herself.What's next: a novel about Franz Mesmer and his quest for medical legitimacy, and a subplot inspired by Nancy's own grandmother's history with mental illness.Reading from The Education of Delhomme: the Jardin des Tuileries scene where Delhomme meets George Sand for the first time and stews in jealousy as Chopin describes a ruined Bösendorfer and his plan to give Sand a prized ring.What Nancy learned: how a two-year manuscript completion class taught her to find the goal of every scene, why she still doesn't outline, and her advice to track down living historical experts, since "they love it" when a novelist calls.Read more about Nancy Burkhalter on her website: https://www.nancyburkhalter.com/Are you enjoying The Art In Fiction Podcast? Consider giving us a small donation so we can continue bringing you interviews with your favorite arts-inspired novelists.  Click this link to donate: https://ko-fi.com/artinfiction.Also, check out Art In Fiction at https://www.artinfiction.com and explore 2500+ novels inspired by the arts in 11 categories: Architecture, Dance, Decorative Arts, Film, Literature, Music, Photography, Textile Arts, Theater, Visual Arts, & Other.Want to learn more about Carol Cram, the host of The Art In Fiction Podcast? She's the author of several award-winning novels, including The Towers of Tuscany, A Woman of Note, The Muse of Fire, and The Choir. Check out her website...

Cory Empting is Managing Director of Winegrowing at Domain H. William Harlan, overseeing Harlan Estate, BOND, Promontory, and The Mascot in the Napa Valley of California.Cory recounts his memories of growing up in the Napa Valley and learning about winemaking from the age of 15. He recalls running around The French Laundry as a kid and helping out with a harvest at Forman Vineyard. He also talks about his first experiences at Harlan Estate, a property where he has now worked for decades. Cory discusses why he decided to pursue a career at Harlan, which led to being named the Winemaker of the property years later.Cory talks about Bob Levy, the Founding Winemaker of Harlan Estate, who Cory still works with today. He also describes working for Bill Harlan and Will Harlan, the owners of the property. Cory talks about the 1997 vintage at Harlan Estate, and his experiences tasting that wine over the years. He also shares some thoughts about the ageing trajectory of Harlan wines in general.Cory discusses the Harlan property itself and contrasts it with the nearby Promontory vineyard, then describes how the winemaking approach for Promontory evolved over time. This leads into a discussion of how the approach at Harlan Estate has changed over the years, both in terms of the farming and the winemaking. One key change has been the move to dry farming (without irrigation), and Cory talks about the implications of that shift. Other topics that emerge in the discussion include soil health, head trained vines, vineyard exposure, harvest date, native yeast fermentation, fermentation temperature, stem inclusion, extraction, tannin management, avoiding acidification, the duration of malolactic conversion, press wine, and the length of élevage. Amidst this discussion Cory emphasizes his respect for Bob Levy's accomplishments and frames the shifts at Harlan over time as a natural evolution in a multi-generational business.Cory shares the terrible circumstances surrounding the wildfires in the Napa Valley in 2017, and what his family experienced during that time. He also grapples with how that harvest redefined his thinking about the winemaking. After that experience in 2017, Cory reviewed harvest records from previous decades and started thinking more about the winemaking of the past in the Napa Valley. This coincided with Cory having more encounters with older vintages of Napa wines.Farming is discussed in-depth, as Cory shares his thoughts on the language of plants and interacting with vines. A significant outcome of the work in the vines at Harlan has been earlier ripening as an outcome of dry farming. Cory recognizes members of his team who made key contributions to the work in the vines on the property, including the Castellanos brothers and Francisco Gonzalez. He also touches on the significant differences between different vineyard parcels within Harlan Estate, both in terms of vineyard work and exposure. The subject of multi-generational wineries comes to the fore as Cory discusses internal dynamics at the workplace between winemakers and ownership.In 2020, wildfire reappeared in the Napa Valley, and Cory made a decision to harvest weeks earlier than had been the norm at Harlan Estate in the 2000s. He refers to that decision as “an inflection point” for Harlan Estate and shares his reasoning in this interview. The question of whether wildfires are part of a new climate reality for Napa is addressed in this interview, and Cory talks about the relation of farming and climate to wine style. He also shares his thoughts on how smoke taint may alter the tannins of a wine. He closes with the thought that his team is currently learning and adjusting at a faster pace.This episode also features commentary from:Ric Forman, Forman VineyardKelli White, Director of Education at The Wine Center and author of the book "Napa Valley Then & Now"Frederic Mugnier, Domaine Jacques-Frederic MugnierSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, ERB Podcast producer Julie L. Moore speaks with acclaimed writers Robert Cording and Marjorie Maddox about their most recent books: In the Unwalled City and What's Possible: New and Selected Poems by Cording and Seeing Things and Hover Here by Maddox. Humble and gracious, Cording and Maddox share how they write about their own deep questions, intense challenges, and heart-breaking losses in their vulnerable, relatable poetry and prose. Both retired college professors, Cording and Maddox also address contemporary Americans' hesitance regarding and anxiety about reading poetry as they likewise discuss how their craft enables readers to feel welcome when encountering their poetry. They each read one of their poems to illustrate how accessible and moving their poetry can be.   Robert Cording is professor emeritus at College of the Holy Cross where he taught for 38 years and served as the Barrett Chair of English and Creative Writing.  After his retirement, he worked for five years as a poetry mentor in the Seattle Pacific University low residency MFA program. He has published ten collections of poems, and three of his books were finalists for the Connecticut Book Award. Walking with Ruskin (CavanKerry Press) was also a runner-up for the Poet's Prize. A book on poetry, the Bible, and metaphor, Finding the World's Fullness, was published by Slant. He has received two NEA Fellowships in poetry, two poetry fellowships from the state of Connecticut, and has won three Pushcart Prizes in poetry. His poems have appeared in such notable publications as Best American Poetry, 2018; Best Spiritual Writing (1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2010); Poetry Magazine Anthology; Godine: Poets of the New Century; and Milkweed: Urban Nature. Cording has also served as director of From the Fishouse and was poet-in-residence at the Frost Place.Marjorie Maddox is Professor Emerita of English and Creative Writing at the Lock Haven campus of Commonwealth University, 2023 Monson Arts Fellow, a poetry editor of Presence, and radio host of WPSU-FM's Poetry Moment. Maddox has published seventeen collections of poetry and won many awards, including the Yellowglen Prize and the Philip H. McMath Post-Publication Award for Transplant, Transport, Transubstantiation; the Sandstone Book Award for Perpendicular As I; the Redgreene Press Chapbook Award for When the Wood Clacks Out Your Name: Baseball Poems; the Painted Bride Chapbook Award for How to Fit God into a Poem; and the Amelia Chapbook Winner for Nightrider to Edinburgh. Her poem, “Arise,” about the Thailand cave rescue, won the 2019 Foley Poetry Prize by America Magazine. She is co-editor, with Jerry Wemple, of Common Wealth: Contemporary Poets on Pennsylvania (Penn State University Press, 2005) and Keystone: Contemporary Poets on Pennsylvania (Penn State University Press, 2025).If you'd like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so from Hearts and Minds Books(an independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)Robert Cording's Recent Books, both by Slant Books: In the Unwalled City (2022) What's Possible: New and Selected Poems (2026) Marjorie Maddox's Recent Books: Seeing Things (Wildhouse Publishing, 2025)Hover Here (Broadstone Books, 2026)Other Books Discussed: Revelations of Divine Love by Julian of NorwichThe Awful Rowing Toward God by Anne SextonWalking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art by Madeleine L'EngleThe Accidental Pilgrim: Finding God and His Mother in Tuscany by Judith SornbergerSorority of Stillness: A Gallery of Women in Art by Judith SornbergerLove Song with Dying Fish by Marci Rae Johnson Devil's Backbone by Julie L. MooreThe Countess by Rebecca JohnsPoems Mentioned: "Satire III" by John Donne"Lord" by George HerbertInfluential Authors Mentioned & Recommended: Gerard Manley Hopkins, William Wenthe, Sydney Lea, Baron Wormser, Ada Limón, Laura Reece Hogan, and Marie Howe

On this episode we sample one of our favorite Italian Beers, Birra Moretti.  We then dive into why Nick's feelings are hurt, what we think about a Project Hail Mary rewatch, Jaws in space, CareBears and the Polar Express, Italian beers are basically health drinks, opening a beer with your wedding ring, a bit of the European beer funk, trying not to offend the Italians, drinking in the back of the Duomo, the Raiders of Tuscany, a barely cooked steak, Clarkson's Farm Season 5, the mayhem of opening a pub, the Farmer's Dog, turning a profit but having fun, any work off camera, Gerald is not an actor, traveling ornithologists, farming life in the Cotswolds, raising awareness for Britain's farmers, Charlie Ireland, the frustration of British red tape, and experiencing all of the emotions.  Support Us On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DrepandStone We'd love to hear from you! https://linktr.ee/DrepandStone Don't forget to subscribe! Episode 356

We are back with an all-new episode of All Up In My Lady Business! Mary chats with Amelia Forczak, a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, who shares insights into the world of ghostwriting, the book-writing process, how one becomes a ghostwriter, and how AI is transforming the industry. Ever wanted to turn your ideas into a book? Visit pithywordsmithery.com and check out @pithy_wordsmithery on IG to find out how and to learn more about their writer's retreat in Tuscany!Have a question or thought for Mary? Leave us a voicemail for your chance to be featured on the show: https://www.allupinmyladybusiness.com/voicemail/Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, then come hang with us on Instagram (instagram.com/allupinmyladybusiness) & Threads (threads.com/@allupinmyladybusiness)!Learn more about A Mary Nisi Production: www.amarynisiproduction.comFind your next DJ at Toast & Jam: toastandjamdjs.comLaunch your DJ business with the Toast & Jam Lab: lab.toastandjamdjs.comSupport the show

Full Text of Readings Tuesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 396 The Saint of the day is Saint Lawrence of Brindisi Saint Lawrence of Brindisi's Story At first glance, perhaps the most remarkable quality of Lawrence of Brindisi is his outstanding gift of languages. In addition to a thorough knowledge of his native Italian, he had complete reading and speaking ability in Latin, Hebrew, Greek, German, Bohemian, Spanish, and French. Lawrence was born on July 22, 1559, and died exactly 60 years later on his birthday in 1619. His parents William and Elizabeth Russo gave him the name of Julius Caesar, Caesare in Italian. After the early death of his parents, he was educated by his uncle at the College of St. Mark in Venice. When he was just 16, he entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order in Venice and received the name of Lawrence of Brindisi. He completed his studies of philosophy and theology at the University of Padua and was ordained a priest at 23. With his facility for languages Lawrence of Brindisi was able to study the Bible in its original texts. At the request of Pope Clement VIII, he spent much time preaching to the Jews in Italy. So excellent was his knowledge of Hebrew, the rabbis felt sure he was a Jew who had become a Christian. Lawrence's sensitivity to the needs of people—a character trait perhaps unexpected in such a talented scholar—began to surface. He was elected major superior of the Capuchin Franciscan province of Tuscany at the age of 31. He had the combination of brilliance, human compassion, and administrative skill needed to carry out his duties. In rapid succession he was promoted by his fellow Capuchins and was elected minister general of the Capuchins in 1602. In this position he was responsible for great growth and geographical expansion of the Order. Lawrence of Brindisi was appointed papal emissary and peacemaker, a job which took him to a number of foreign countries. An effort to achieve peace in his native kingdom of Naples took him on a journey to Lisbon to visit the king of Spain. Serious illness in Lisbon took his life in 1619. In 1956, the Capuchins completed a 15-volume edition of Lawrence's writings. Eleven of these 15 contain his sermons, each of which relies chiefly on scriptural quotations to illustrate his teaching. Reflection His constant devotion to Scripture, coupled with great sensitivity to the needs of people, present a lifestyle which appeals to Christians today. Lawrence had a balance in his life that blended self-discipline with a keen appreciation for the needs of those whom he was called to serve.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Lorenzo Fiori describes Italy's extreme heatwave, with temperatures reaching 122 degrees, followed by the threat of violent thunderstorms. For relief, he recommends Radicofani in Tuscany, showcasing its medieval fortress, world-class olive oil, and traditional recipes like gratinated tomatoes paired with local Brunello wine. (6)MESSINA, ITALIA

SCHEDULE FOR THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-17-2026Jeff Bliss discusses California's controversial "billionaire tax," an initiative designed to bridge the state budget gap that has prompted a significant wealth exodus to states like Texas. He also addresses Governor Newsom's shifting stance on wealth taxes and the re-emergence of past personal and political scandals. (1)Jeff Bliss celebrates the anniversary of Disneyland's 1955 opening, sharing memories of working as a "Yodeler" on the Skyway ride. The conversation shifts to vintage Las Vegas and impending Southern California weather, including a tropical storm system expected to bring 30-foot waves to the Wedge. (2)Richard Epstein analyzes President Trump's recent address questioning the 2020 election results and its potential impact on the 2026 midterms. Epstein explores the constitutional difficulties of removing a president for lack of judgment, arguing that political consequences remain the most viable remedy for irrational leadership. (3)Richard Epstein discusses his book on birthright citizenship, challenging the Supreme Court's interpretation of the 14th Amendment. He addresses the phenomenon of "birth tourism," the status of foreign-raised US citizens, and the relative silence from liberal scholars regarding his arguments on federal plenary power over naturalization. (4)Jim McTague reports on how Canadian wildfire smoke has stifled Lancaster County's tourist economy and created hazardous air quality. He also highlights rising gas prices and a local backlash against AI, where a borough rejected substantial revenue from a tech center due to automation fears. (5)Lorenzo Fiori describes Italy's extreme heatwave, with temperatures reaching 122 degrees, followed by the threat of violent thunderstorms. For relief, he recommends Radicofani in Tuscany, showcasing its medieval fortress, world-class olive oil, and traditional recipes like gratinated tomatoes paired with local Brunello wine. (6)Bob Zimmerman details SpaceX's launch abort for the Starship Super Heavy and the ongoing struggles of ULA. He highlights the $70 billion surge in private space investment, Amazon's expansion into South Africa, and Blue Origin'srevised employee stock options designed to retain talent in a competitive market. (7)Bob Zimmerman reports on the discovery of organic sugar molecules in interstellar space and the identification of a new exoplanet shepherd at Beta Pictoris. He also discusses Katalyst's mission to rescue the Swift telescope and Perseverance's findings on Mars regarding the planet's history of massive impacts. (8)Alan Mikhail recounts the arrival of Anthony and Grietje in 1629 New Amsterdam, noting their resilience during Kieft's War. Despite being banished to Long Island and facing prejudice as "the Turk," they built a prosperous estate, with Grietje emerging as a particularly assertive and foundational figure. (9)Alan Mikhail examines Peter Stuyvesant's hardline enforcement of the Dutch Reformed Church, including the violent persecution of Quakers and anti-Semitic attempts to banish Jewish settlers. The segment highlights the 1657 Flushing Remonstrance as an early, essential document in the American history of religious toleration. (10)Alan Mikhail describes how, as the English seized New Amsterdam in 1664, Anthony and Grietje transitioned into respectable property owners who aged into the colony's social fabric. Mikhail argues that these individuals, alongside long-resident enslaved figures like Mary Angola, should be recognized as the true founders of New York City. (11)Alan Mikhail relates how, following Grietje's death, Anthony remarried a burgher woman, reflecting his elevated social status despite earlier prejudices. Mikhail frames Anthony's life as a vital starting point for discussing Islam in North America, noting the parallels between historical biases and the challenges modern Muslim leaders face today. (12)Henry Sokolski discusses the security implications of a power outage at a US missile base, warning that electrical grids are now primary targets in "gray warfare." He notes that nations like Russia and Iran increasingly view civilian infrastructure as legitimate military targets to spread mayhem and leverage power. (13)Henry Sokolski analyzes the "Golden Dome" project, suggesting its true value lies in achieving space superiority rather than just missile defense. He emphasizes the need for passive defenses, like redundant transformers and public preparedness, to counter the rising threat of autonomous drone swarms and precision attacks. (14)Lilla Nóra Kiss warns about Nuctech, a Chinese-subsidized company dominating the European scanner market through predatory pricing. She highlights the security risks of allowing CCP-linked technology to handle sensitive border and cargo data, noting the company's origins at Tsinghua University and its opaque state support. (15)Lilla Nóra Kiss details how Tsinghua University serves as a conduit for laundering Chinese state technology and operations. She criticizes European regulators for viewing Chinese incursions through narrow "silos" like climate policy rather than recognizing the comprehensive national security threats posed by massive, integrated surveillance machines. (16)

Host Jo Reed talks with contributor Laura Rossi about three Earphones Award–winning audiobooks whose narrators transport listeners in strikingly different ways. Recorded live before audiences across the country, The Land and Its People captures David Sedaris at his best: His impeccable timing and disarming honesty create an immersive listening experience that can be as moving as it is funny. Andrew Sean Greer's Villa Coco, read by Edoardo Ballerini, carries listeners to Tuscany, where Ballerini's exceptional performance turns a wonderful book into an unforgettable listen. Jo and Laura close by previewing Hallie Cantor's novel, Like This, but Funnier, with Helen Laser's deft narration capturing both the wit and vulnerability of a flawed screenwriter at a professional crossroads. From David Sedaris's unmistakable voice to Edoardo Ballerini's immersive storytelling and Helen Laser's razor-sharp comic timing, this episode celebrates narrators whose performances don't simply accompany a book—they shape the entire listening experience.   Audiobooks Discussed: The Land and Its People, written and read by David Sedaris (Hachette Audio) Villa Coco by Andrew Sean Greer, read by Edoardo Ballerini (Random HouseAudio) Like This, But Funnier by Hallie Cantor, read by Helen Laser (Simon & Schuster Audio) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jodie just wrapped her fifth year hosting a painting workshop in Citta della Pieve, Italy, and this episode is not the trip recap you expect. It is the story of a wall that could not be cleaned, the artist who painted a mural over it instead, and what five years of doing this keeps teaching Jodie about letting go of control, both on the canvas and off it. Inside this episode: • The moment a technically flawless artist finally let go of needing to know where a brushstroke was going • The story of the paint spill, the mural of poppies, and the career decision that came after it • Three things Jodie wants every artist to sit with, whether you ever get on a plane or not Resources Mentioned: Italy 2027 Honest Art® Workshop: https://stradatoscana.com/retreats/jodie-king/  The Artist Who Gets Paid, Jodie's 3-part workshop (August 20, 25, and 27): https://www.jodiekingart.com/artistseries  Studio Elite Mastermind: https://www.jodiekingart.com/studioelite  Episode 63, How Artists Can Reignite Their Creativity and Find Their Spark Again: https://jodieking.com/episode-63-how-artists-can-reignite-their-creativity-and-find-their-spark-again/ Episode 87, How Imposter Syndrome is Holding You Back as an Artist: https://jodieking.com/episode-87-how-imposter-syndrome-is-holding-you-back-as-an-artist-what-to-do-about-it/ Episode 120, The Healing Power of Art Workshops with Returning Guest, Becky Joan Springer: https://jodieking.com/episode-120-from-wreckage-to-community-teaching-and-healing-with-returning-guest-becky-joan-springer/ Episode 140, Finish Your Painting With Confidence: https://jodieking.com/episode-140-finish-your-painting-with-confidence-15-actionable-steps-to-push-the-fuglies/ Episode 155, Why Your Creative Block Won't Go Away: https://jodieking.com/episode-155-why-your-creative-block-wont-go-away-and-exactly-how-to-fix-it/ Have a question for Jodie? Ask it here: https://forms.gle/hxrVu4oL4PVCKwZm6  Watch this full episode on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMquJfuMsSg0fr46BRdia1cWd-81GThzF Loved this one? Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and leave us a review, it genuinely helps other artists find the show. Know an artist who would be perfect for the podcast? Email amy@jodieking.com.

Hosted by Tracy Smith. Featured: Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, writer and director Noah Wylie, how white supremacists staged the only successful coup in U.S. history, the story of "Take Me Home (Country Roads)", President Trump's reimagining of Washington, D.C., and the wine barrel race in Tuscany.

Live from the Wisdom of the Sages annual Tuscany retreat, three questions that go to the heart of the practice. How do we deepen intimacy in bhakti without imitating it? How do you reconcile respect and resentment toward a teacher who gave you bhakti but also caused real harm? And how do we recognize what Krishna wants from us as our next step? ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Iran's default, Afrikaners in America, summer jobs, and a Gettysburg guide. Plus, Cal Thomas on distrusting Iran, canine soccer fans, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Ambassadors Impact Network, where members bring pattern recognition from building and scaling companies, and they apply that wisdom collaboratively to evaluate faith-driven investment opportunities. The network hosts quarterly meetings for education, deal review, and fellowship, with hybrid options enabling connection across geographies. Membership information is available at ambassadorsimpact.comFrom Harbinger Tours. Luxury Israel trips, November and May. Jane Austen, June '27. Tuscany, September '27. HarbingerTours.netAnd from The Amplified Bible, from The Lockman Foundation, designed to bring out the full depth of meaning in Scripture by expanding key words and phrases from the original languages. Its unique amplifications and definitions add clarity for reading and study.New TwoTone editions use soft gray typography to distinguish amplified words from the main text, creating a cleaner page and a smoother reading experience.Learn more at amplifiedbible.com

Q&A Live from the Wisdom of the Sages annual Tuscany retreat. How does a bhakti practitioner maintain boundaries with a parent whose behavior has been harmful — without abandoning dharma or their own wellbeing? How do you help teenage daughters navigate comparison and self-worth in the age of social media? And how do we balance codependency with the aspect of mercy — in the context of the guru/disciple relationship? ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

China releases Pastor Ezra Jin, a seminary's stand for Biblical teaching, witnessing at America 250, and restoring the American bison. Plus, Joe Rigney on inheriting America's founding principles, a British copy of our Declaration, and the Tuesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Harbinger Tours. Luxury Israel trips, November and May. Jane Austen, June '27. Tuscany, September '27. HarbingerTours.netFrom The Amplified Bible, from The Lockman Foundation, designed to bring out the full depth of meaning in Scripture by expanding key words and phrases from the original languages. Its unique amplifications and definitions add clarity for reading and study.New TwoTone editions use soft gray typography to distinguish amplified words from the main text, creating a cleaner page and a smoother reading experience.Learn more at amplifiedbible.comAnd from Ambassadors Impact Network, where members bring pattern recognition from building and scaling companies, and they apply that wisdom collaboratively to evaluate faith-driven investment opportunities. The network hosts quarterly meetings for education, deal review, and fellowship, with hybrid options enabling connection across geographies. Membership information is available at ambassadorsimpact.com

Live from the Wisdom of the Sages annual Tuscany retreat, Raghunath and Kaustubha take questions from their live audience. Four questions: When Krishna takes something away — is it punishment or love? How do you know if you're actually making progress on the path of bhakti? How do you stay Krishna conscious in a kirtan scene that rarely chants the Mahā-mantra? And how do we process the apparent repercussions of Krishna's Līlā in this world — Hiraṇyakaśipu was a devotee in a previous life, and yet he torments Prahlāda, kills brāhmaṇas, and terrorizes the universe. How do we make sense of that? ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Most leaders believe the chaos that breaks out when they leave is a people problem. In this episode of DarrenDaily On-Demand, Darren Hardy makes the case that it is almost never a people problem. It is a systems problem, and the leader built it. He draws on his own experience as a managing director in a previous company where he made himself the bottleneck on every decision, and contrasts that with a two-week private cycling trip through Tuscany he took with zero work contact while his business ran without a single fire. Darren also reveals the operating system components that make this kind of leadership liberation possible, and why the single most important mindset shift is accepting that solving is not serving. Find the ONE HIRE your business needs next ==> https://darrenhardy.com/hire Get more personal mentoring from Darren each day. Go to DarrenDaily at http://darrendaily.com/join to learn more.