Podcasts about Lake Como

Dreaming of Northern Italy? Take a virtual journey with us from Venice to Torino exploring shimmering lakes, hidden towns, food, wine, and of course the people that are preserving long held traditions. We're taking you backstage on our newest Untold Italy tours adventure to the regions that have had a life changing impact on our team.Join us in Northern Italy in 2026 - tour detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/294NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Ready to skip the crowds and travel deep into regional Italy? Explore Abruzzo where mountain peaks meet the Adriatic and every village hosts memorable food festivals. Local expert Cassie Tresl spills insider secrets on rustic towns, amazing arrosticini, and why Abruzzo is Italy's ultimate adventure for culture-rich, crowd-free travel.Get help with your trip on Cassie's trip planning proileRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/293NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Alan welcomes the brilliant Stacey Solomon & Joe Swash to Life's A Beach!

Uncover the true secrets of the Cinque Terre with our friend, local food expert Enrica Monzani. Travel in this region of Italy has generally been defined by the landscapes and romantic villages clinging to cliffsides. But, in this epsiode, we uncover regional traditions, hiking tips, village identities, and the flavors of wine and olive oil. Travel Italy beyond the crowds and learn how to experience Cinque Terre like a local.Join us in the Cinque Terre and Liguria in 2026 - tour detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/292NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

The moms catch up! In this episode is filled with laughs, stories, and a little real talk. Jill shares details from her recent trip to Lake Como, Italy for Kalani's beautiful wedding. The conversation shifts to fall fashion struggles (why does it always feel like we have nothing to wear when the seasons change?), and the trio gets candid about navigating menopause, prioritizing health in your 50s, and finding ways to feel your best inside and out.Eat to beat disease book: https://go.shopmy.us/p-25976483Magnesium: https://go.shopmy.us/p-25987279Ritual vitamins: https://go.shopmy.us/p-23371275Be sure to check out Pillow Talk! https://pillowtalkpod.com/Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we're delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we've put together a super quick survey. It'll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you've been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Federico has made it alone, imagining much and working more, arriving from Ravenna, where he was born, to become part of King Charles III's task force.… Those who want to break the mold have to take risks, swim against the tide, walk untrodden paths.”—Giorgio Armani, from the foreword to The Geek of Chic.  At the start of the 21st century, shopping online was still a futuristic fantasy. There was no Facebook, there were no iPhones. And yet, in the spring of 2000, Federico Marchetti invented one of the world's first platforms for online sales—and started a company that would revolutionize the luxury fashion sector. In THE GEEK OF CHIC: An American Dream, Italian Style (Post Hill Press; September 9, 2025; ISBN: 9798895650608; $18.99; 288 pages; Original Trade Paperback), international fashion business and tech icon Federico Marchetti, (with a foreword by Giorgio Armani), shares his engaging, honest and passionate memoir that reveals how he morphed from a geeky kid in the sleepy seaside town of Ravenna, Italy to a pioneer in online retail, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs and inspiration for visionaries and big dreamers.  The Geek of Chic explains the present and future of Marchetti's life, including working on His Majesty King Charles III's service as Chair of The Sustainable Markets Initiative's Fashion Task Force, which includes brands such as Chloé, Armani, Burberry, Cucinelli, Stella McCartney, and Prada. In a sector known for individualism, Marchetti is uniting global luxury groups around a common goal of shifting towards a circular industry that is climate-conscious and nature-positive. The King of England now considers Marchetti his consigliere on matters of regenerative fashion and digital innovation, collaborating on several initiatives and projects.   Unfolding against a backdrop of famed vistas—Milan, Lake Como, Venice, England's Royal Palace, New York City, Shanghai, Tokyo, and Dubai—and featuring encounters with notables from Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos to Giorgio Armani and Anna Wintour, The Geek of Chic's message is relevant to a new generation of entrepreneurs who wish to combine innovation, business acumen, and AI with humanism, creativity and empathy: how to achieve the American dream in an Italian way.  For more information about Marchetti, please visit www.federicomarchetti.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Please Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠! Kimberly and Tommaso discuss their all-time favorite places in Italy. They reminisce about past travels and discuss their favorite islands, lakes, and cities. Key Points: Favorite Islands: Kimberly loves Capri of the raw beautKimberly's favorite is Lake Como due to her long-standing history with it and it's idyllic old villas against the backdrop of the mountains. Tommaso's first visit to Sardinia was for a sailing regatta and he's been hooked ever since. Sailing between the northern tip the island and the southern tip of Corsica is the most beautiful geography he's ever seen Favorite Lakes: Kimberly's favorite is Lake Como due to her long-standing history with it and it's idyllic old villas against the backdrop of the mountains. Tommaso prefers Lake Garda, citing its Venetian influence in architecture, grander size, and naturally the sailing. Favorite Cities: Both agree that Rome is addictive due to its architecture, history, and vibrant atmosphere, not to mention the cuisine and friendly locals. Tommaso also loves Bologna for its manageable size, architecture and academic history. Throw in Ragu Bolognese and all is good in the world. Episode Insights: Tommaso appreciates the large size and large vistas on Lake Garda. He describes the stunning drive around the lake and the dramatic weather systems which add to the visual. Kimberly and Tommaso enjoy walking around Rome at night to see the various centuries of architecture lit so dramatically by the exterior lighting. Tommaso loves Bologna for its architecture and its historical influence with academia, science and medicine Kimberly and Tommaso suggest seeing the island of Sardinia by both boat and Vespa, or at least a small car to get a feel for the curvy coastline. Next Episode: Kimberly and Tommaso will continue their list of top 10 favorite places in Italy, including their favorite countryside destinations.

Jo Jo Siwa BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.JoJo Siwa has been everywhere this week, both literally and figuratively, as several of her latest moves continue to make headlines and light up social media. The biggest story right now is her relationship with Chris Hughes, which has prompted a wave of chatter after JoJo publicly clarified her sexuality following backlash from the LGBTQIA plus community. Speaking out on both the Smith Sisters Live show and the Reign with Josh Smith podcast JoJo said that being in a heterosexual relationship does not mean she is straight but that she remains proudly queer. According to DIVA Magazine and PinkNews this came after fans questioned her identity when she began dating Chris Hughes of Love Island fame following their highly publicized romance on Celebrity Big Brother UK. Although the backlash has been intense, JoJo made it clear she is happy and committed, saying the best thing that has happened to her is falling in love with Chris and emphasizing her history with women and non-binary partners remains part of her story.The engagement rumor mill has shifted into overdrive after Chris's father told the Daily Mail he would not be surprised if the two got married before Christmas and hinted at a “perfect” wedding location at St Marys Church near the Hughes family home in Gloucestershire. Fans further speculated about wedding plans when eagle eyed followers noted JoJo liked a bridal beauty treatment timeline post from wedding planner PoshVows on Instagram, adding more fuel to the fire as Bored Panda reported.On the music and performance front, JoJo Siwa continues moving at a breakneck pace. She is set for a major tour stop in Dublin at The Academy on September 29 according to JamBase and Concerts50, as part of her ongoing international concert rollout. Social media buzz swelled after parade.com and Bored Panda shared stunning shots of JoJo in a sparkling gold mini dress at a recent Italian wedding, marking a noticeable shift into what fans are calling her “feminine era.” She also went viral on TikTok with Dance Moms co-stars for their dress up and dance reunion at Kalani Hilliker's wedding in Lake Como, a moment Parade covered that delighted longtime fans.Just last week, JoJo was also seen promoting her new single Iced Coffee, which marks her first release since July's Guilty Pleasure EP, and the track is picking up momentum online. Amidst all of this, JoJo found time to address online bullying and the complexity of exploring identity in the public eye, saying that even though she developed thick skin, others in her position may be less resilient—sending a message about the need for empathy and acceptance. This cluster of stories cements JoJo Siwa as not only pop's perennial headline grabber but also a key voice in the ongoing conversation about identity, love, and self expression.Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOtaThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

Fall in Italy is a dream for travelers. It's a season of golden vineyards, festivals, and quiet piazzas where you can while away an hour or two. In this episode, we explore eight Italian towns that shine in autumn - from a hilltop town in Umbria to a city famed for truffle markets, and a Renaissance jewel and beyond. Discover lesser-known gems in Veneto, Lombardy, Lazio, and Abruzzo where seasonal flavors and breathtaking landscapes make fall an unforgettable time to visit.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/291NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

The obligatory hot girls euro summer trip has finally concluded, meaning it's time to get back to regularly scheduled programming. BUT FIRST, not without a recap of my amazing trip with my girlfriends for my best friend Jenny's wedding!Per the poll results from Instagram, the second hottest topic you requested was women's health and my PCOS journey thus far. After our euro trip recap, we discuss the key differences in men and female bodies. From different hormone cycles to the way our brains are neurologically wired, we are built entirely differently. We chat about how men and women can better understand each other by learning the programming behind our software. Lastly, I share private details of what I've been going through with PCOS.Please note that I shared more than I needed to in hopes of helping a woman out who may be experiencing similar symptoms. But, I am keeping a lot of my diagnosis and issues private as I am still early in the stages of addressing it and every person's solution to PCOS is different and should be doctor recommended only - not by me! Treat my information respectfully please. 

We've well and truly kicked off season 7 in style as we welcome our first guest onto the show - IAAPA Board Chairman, Massimiliano Freddi. In this episode, Paul sits down with Massimiliano Freddi, the first Italian to ever hold the role of IAAPA Chairman in the association's 107-year history. From his early dream of running a theme park to founding Wonderwood and shaping Italy's unique attractions landscape, Massi shares how passion, storytelling, and a people-first mindset continue to drive his vision for the industry. Skip The Queue is back for Season 7 and we're announcing some big changes! Get ready for new hosts, a fresh new look, weekly content and find out where you can catch us live at events to be part of the action.Skip the Queue is brought to you by Rubber Cheese, a digital agency that builds remarkable systems and websites for attractions that helps them increase their visitor numbers. Your host is Paul Marden.If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website SkiptheQueue.fm.If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on LinkedIn, or Bluesky for your chance to win the books that have been mentioned in this podcast.Competition ends on 24th September 2025. The winner will be contacted via LinkedIn or Bluesky. Show references:  https://iaapa.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddi/Massimiliano Freddi  a leading figure in the amusement and entertainment industry, has been appointed president of the steering committee of IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, the leading international association for attractions and theme parks) for 2025. This is the first time since the foundation of the World Association of Attractions (1918) that this position has been entrusted to an Italian.The appointment underscores his extensive experience and significant contribution to the global industry. Freddi brings a wealth of experience gained at some of the industry's most prominent companies. His career began in marketing and press office for the Italian market at Disneyland Paris. He subsequently joined Leolandia.A visionary entrepreneur, in 2018, Massimiliano Freddi founded Wonderwood, an adventure and amusement park for all ages, of which he is currently CEO, in his hometown of Trarego Viggiona, in the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola region on Lake Maggiore. This growing business has redeveloped several local facilities and provided employment to several young residents of the small towns in the area. His passion for the sector also extends to academia. Since 2016, he has been a member of the coaching staff of Seth Godin's Altmba and is a professor of marketing and experience design at IULM University in Milan. At the same university, where Italy's first course in theme park and attraction management was introduced, he teaches subjects such as consumer experience, marketing, and soft skills as an adjunct professor. Freddi was also one of the original founders of Parksmania, the first newspaper dedicated to amusement parks.Freddi will continue to bring his innovative vision and deep industry knowledge to the global association, helping shape the future of attractions internationally. Regarding Italy, he commented that he sees great potential and wants to help realise it. Transcriptions:  Paul Marden: Welcome to Skip the Queue, the podcast about the world's best visitor attractions and the people that work in them. I'm Paul Marden, along with my co-hosts Andy Povey and Sinead Kimberley, I spend my days working with ambitious attractions like theme parks, museums, galleries, and science centres to help them to attract more guests. Paul Marden: Today on Skip the Queue, I'm joined by someone who has been shaping the attractions industry in truly remarkable ways. Massimiliano Freddi is the first Italian ever to hold the role of chairman in IAAPA's 107-year history. A milestone that not only celebrates his career, but also shines a light on Italy's growing influence in the global attractions landscape. Massimiliano has worn many hats across his journey, from fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a Theme Park Managing Director at just 28, where he grew guest numbers from 300,000 to over 800,000, to founding his own destinations like Wonderwood on Lake Maggiore and Wonderwood Spina Verde, overlooking Lake Como. Along the way, he's pioneered inclusive and eco-conscious practices, championing the power of storytelling and shown how attractions can thrive by creating meaningful experiences for every guest.Paul Marden: Beyond his leadership roles, Massimiliano is also a Professor of Marketing and Experience Design at IULM University in Milan, where he's passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent in our sector. Often described as both a dreamer and a doer, he brings together vision and practicality in a way that continues to inspire operators around the world.Paul Marden: Massimilliano, welcome to the show. It really is a pleasure to have you with us. We always start Skip the Queue and the kickoff of season seven, no less, is going to be no different. We always start with an icebreaker question. And I'm thinking back to, we're just back off of our summer holidays, aren't we? For your perfect holiday, would it start with planes, trains or driving.Massimiliano Freddi: Oh, that's a beautiful question. By the way, congratulations because you've pronounced Massimiliano in a very correct way. So that's unusual. I have a complicated name. I know, I know.Massimiliano Freddi: Hey, I would say train. Train is really, really part of the way that I love to travel with. And unfortunately, too often it happens by car, which I like a little bit less. I get dizzy, you know, and stuff. Train is my ultimate, ultimate way to travel.Paul Marden: I did a sleeper train to Scotland a couple of years ago, and it was amazing. I absolutely loved it. And what's brilliant is there's more of those sleeper trains hitting Europe, aren't there now? So there really is very few excuses for us not to be holidaying with the start with some elegant sleeper train. My only disappointment was that there was no murder on the train, so I couldn't have an Agatha Christie style novel themed around my train  journey, but uh, you know.Massimiliano Freddi: I mean, I mean, it could have been the Hogwarts Express, but apparently, it doesn't run every day, so.Paul Marden: That would be pretty cool as well. I've just come back from Edinburgh, actually, and we saw, you know, the viaduct where the train goes to Hogwarts, and completely unplanned, there was a steam train that went over the bridge whilst we were there. It was amazing.Massimiliano Freddi: Happy go lucky.Paul Marden: Yeah. So enough of my holidays. Let's kick off talking about you and IAAPA. What can international markets learn from attractions in Italy? Tell us a little bit about the attractions landscape over there in Italy at the moment.Massimiliano Freddi: Yes. So let's say that the attraction landscape is very similar, somehow, to how the restaurants or the retail landscape has always been, which means a lot of mom and pop stores. And I think that what people who travel to Italy love is to find something that is one of a kind that you can find only in Italy. I have a deep respect for Starbucks, but I'm always... questioning myself, you know, when somebody comes to Italy, do they really want to find Starbucks? Is this a real thing? So when it comes to parks and attractions, Italy has not faced a big concentration in players like it has happened in other countries. Of course, some big players are there. Parques Reunidos owns Mirabilandia, which is the second most important Italian park. And the most important Italian park is Gardaland, owned by Merlin Entertainment. Then we have a few other groups. Owning and operating some of the facilities, but let's say that, out of 250 parks between—or, you said, attractions— that's very correct now, if we talk about attractions, now the number is endless, because where is the border?Paul Marden: What is an attraction? Yeah, that's a big philosophical question.Massimiliano Freddi: Okay, okay, so let's say that, once upon a time, we used to count parks. So when we talk about parks, we have roughly 250 parks in Italy, and most of them are tiny, tiny, tiny, and they are independently owned. That's my case. I own and operate two parks right now, and I'm about to open, a third location that will be an indoor one this November. And so, yes, I think that what what others can learn from Italy i think is to keep this respect for your roots and to make sure that you don't make every attraction look like another one, but you kind of keep it, you know, different.Massimiliano Freddi: And so it's a matter of the mix of how people can have fun and get entertained. But it's really also about retail and about food and about shows and festivals and you name it, you know. So there are these places that we see on Instagram and immediately we say, oh, that's, I mean, when I see a picture of the Empire State Building or of the Tower Bridge. I know immediately where it belongs to. And so I think that, with attractions, we need to think in the future always about this. Guests coming to visit us, they want to have the ultimate experience and they want to have something that's different from anything they've done before. So this is the responsibility we have.Paul Marden: And a big one it is. Let's talk a little bit about the experience economy. And especially when we think about, you know, beyond the parks, there's this... massive ecosystem around the outside of different ways that people can enjoy themselves. What does that experience economy mean to you, especially in Italy?Massimiliano Freddi: The experience economy, first of all, it truly matters to me, the book. Because in 1999, it was once upon a time, it was really difficult to find literature and scientific literature on the leisure industry. And so I think that at that time, we thought that everybody could take inspiration from the attractions industry. And it has happened because right now. Yes, definitely. You know, food is experience and travel is experience and lodging is experience. You name it, you name it. You know, even there is also a funeral house in Italy, which has become very famous because they are really based on the experience they will give, you know, not to the people who passed away, unfortunately, you know, but the people remain. So I think that it's very hard now to find an industry that doesn't think, that we are in the experience economy and that everything should be experienced and experiential. And so I think that when I go back to my example, I think that we as attractions, we need to be even more wise in how we choose to present ourselves and what we cater to our guests.Massimiliano Freddi: Because of course, we need to raise the bar. So right now, we know that some access... And some services to our attractions have become better with technology. But still, we are, you know, long lines sometimes. And we feel we are paying too much for what we are getting back.Massimiliano Freddi: I would say that in the end, experience economy starts with people and ends with people. And so we need to be people-centric. And only like this, we can be truly experiential. I don't think that an experience is about technology.  It's always, always about people.Paul Marden: Absolutely. I wonder as well, I'm always struck by this industry, how close we are, how we collaborate with one another. And really, the competition aren't the other parks or attractions. The competition is getting people out and doing something. There are so many things at home that could keep you at home, getting you out and about and visiting places and enjoying those experiences. I wonder whether collaboration is the answer to this.Massimiliano Freddi: I think you nailed it because it's crucial. Everybody who has not been working for this industry, when they enter the industry, because they might change jobs, everybody is so surprised that we collaborate so heavily. And I think that a key to this success has always been this big collaboration. I have almost always in my career been part of smaller facilities. And to me, IAAPA and the associations were, it's been crucial, you know, because you are alone. Very, very often your facility is in the middle of nowhere. No matter if you're part of a big group, because even big groups have facilities in the middle of nowhere, but for family-owned and operated attractions, that's almost the golden rule.Massimiliano Freddi: And so there are so many days in your life, in your career, in your profession, where you would benefit strongly from talking to somebody else who's been through something like you before and who's found a different solution and who can open up your eyes. So I think that's the beauty of our industries is getting together. Again, if we don't get together, how can we make people get together?Paul Marden: Yeah, I'm very excited about getting together because I've got my first IAAPA in Barcelona coming up. And I'm very excited about what this is going to be like.Massimiliano Freddi: Oh, you will be blown away.Paul Marden:  I can't wait. I absolutely can't wait. Now, look. Someone has once described you as a dreamer and a doer. One of your dreams was to be managing director of a theme park. Where did that inspiration come from?Massimiliano Freddi: So it comes from a terrible childhood. And so it comes from the fact that, yeah, the world around me when I was a kid was not a positive world. And my family had a lot of troubles. And I'm an orphan from the side of my mother. I mean, I went through several things. And so I think that the attractions industry, to me, it really meant this place that's always happy and where grownups can really take great care of kids and kids at heart.Massimiliano Freddi: So I think that my passion came out of that. Now, dreaming and doing, of course, we all have as a big myth and as a reference, Walt Disney himself, and he was the guy who first said, 'Dreamers and doers' talking about, what enterprises, so his imagineers. I think that whenever I see something, I want to say something. Everybody who knows me knows pretty well. But it means that I love to see the world in a constant improvement. So, if I check in at a hotel and I see that there is something in there that, you know, it even doesn't impact me. But with a small step, they could make it better and fix it. I just share it and I share it, you know, wherever I am. And so I think that maybe this was a bit of my secret weapon because I got involved in several things. I think because I'm curious and maybe because I'm generous in sharing.Massimiliano Freddi: And I don't know if there is a secret there. There is just that in the moment in which you accept yourself the way you are and you acknowledge that you have some talents, and you don't have some others, and some skills you can get better, some others no way—okay. I could never never be an attorney, I could never do a lot of jobs on the planet, but now I know, at the age of 44, that I know what I'm good at, and even if I'm good at that, I want to constantly improve. So I think that maybe the support that I could bring to the table to the companies I've worked for, to the associations, to my own business, and so on, it's always been this obsession with constant improvement every day.Paul Marden: I think it takes a certain vulnerability, doesn't it? To spot something that you think can be improved and to offer a suggestion. And I think it's so valuable. I was at an attraction recently and I got the email at the end of the day, saying, 'How was it?' Please leave us a review. I went to click it and it didn't work. I knew the head of marketing, so I just pinged him off a quick email that just said, 'Oh, I had such a brilliant time but I couldn't leave you a review. I wanted to give you a brilliant review, but I couldn't do it because it didn't work. And that led them to go and look at all of their outbound emails, and none of them were working properly. But you know, you could walk by and just leave that alone. But I can't do it. However, it is sometimes does make you feel really awkward, couldn't you? But when I get great services in a restaurant, when somebody looks after me while at an attraction, I want to tell them how good it was, and if I can see something they can do better, I want to tell them what they could do.Massimiliano Freddi:  Totally, totally. And I'm so much on the same page. I was about to say that it's equally important to call people out when they're doing well.Paul Marden: Yeah.Massimiliano Freddi: So to make sure that they are aware. And sometimes, you know, to say there was one day where I travelled during a bank holiday, and I arrived at the entire bank holiday, and I arrived to the airport, and I decided I wanted to thank each and every employee that I would meet because they were there that day. I mean. We got used that Sundays are no longer Sundays, but the bank holidays, these are the moments in which you spend time with your family and with your kids and so on. And if you're there and you're working, I mean, it's good that somebody sees you and tells you, 'Hey, thank you because you're working even today, you know?' And you can tell how everybody gets surprised. So I think that we learn so much more by positive reinforcement.Massimiliano Freddi: And so how important it is also to tell attractions, facilities, managers, CEOs. I mean, CEOs, they are so used to just getting... I can't use swear words. Yes, you can. Under those kind of storms, you know, all the time, all the time. And so when a CEO does something good, come on, let's tell her.Paul Marden: Yeah, it's a really lonely job. And all you get is... is the spankings and the tellings off. Isn't it? So when they get it right, they definitely need a pat on the back because they're not going to get it. They're not going to get it. So I can't believe this. At the age of 28, you made your dream come true and you were managing director of a theme park in Italy for Minitalia, which became Leolandia, in this role you took guest numbers from 300, 000 guests a year to over 800,000.Paul Marden: Tell us that story. How do you so dramatically increase footfall at the attraction?Massimiliano Freddi: I don't think it was me. I think it was a great teamwork because it's a great teamwork, you know, and you can grow this much. If your operation is working very well, if your safety is right on spot, if the park is clean, you know, and so on. I can tell you one thing that when we were at the basic level, so at the very beginning, of course, we couldn't afford to buy big attractions or too heavily themed. And we needed really, I remember that the first Halloween, we had a 10K budget, 10,000 euro budget for a whole month of Halloween. Okay, so we would go to the do-it-yourself stores and buy brooms and build everything. I mean, that was a magical moment because it created the capability of the team to envision that, if you want, you can do with the things you have. And of course, with a huge budget, you can do fantastic things.Massimiliano Freddi: But sometimes, you know, this helps. So in that moment... TripAdvisor was a true success still. We're talking about 20 years ago. So TripAdvisor was kind of the reference. That's even before Google Maps and all that. So I remember that I did an analysis and I understood that every restaurant or park who had over 4. 5 out of 5 was growing. And having 4 out of 5 was not enough. Now we call it NPS, we call it a different way. But there, in this practical way, so I remember this moment with my team saying, 'Hey, we need to be obsessed with getting five stars.' And this is the point. So what can we do? First of all, we can have the cleanest toilets on earth. Let's make sure that the smell is good, they are super clean, and so on. Because people, that's a level of service. Of course, this is not a driver of visit, but this is a driver of satisfaction. And in the same way, let's start to work with better suppliers when it comes to food and beverage.Massimiliano Freddi: Let's start to make things more comfortable. So I think that this was the first thing. The second aspect, again, it's very much linked to IAAPA because I think that attending the show every year and knowing the people. At that time, Jakob Wahl, he used to be one of the employees of IAAPA in Brussels. I don't think he was a manager at the time yet. He was in charge of keeping relationships with members. So I reached out to him. We are the same age. I reached out to him and I said, 'Hey, I would love to visit a few facilities in other countries because I need to get fresh ideas.' It was a very delicate moment. We came out of two bad seasons due to bad weather. Because then you know, you don't go from here to here as a straight line, but always as this roller coaster. And in a moment you think, 'Oh, I made it.' There's a dip.Paul Marden: Yeah.Massimiliano Freddi: You can never sleep. And so he put me in contact with several facilities. I visited some in Belgium, in the Netherlands, and in the UK. And in the UK, I visited this, at that time, small park still called Paulton's Park. You might know that. I remember it was a weekday with bad weather and the parking lot was packed. And I was like, 'How comes?' Kids are not at school today. What is the point? I enter the park. The park is, yeah, not so crowded. So I really suspect that they are, you know, keeping the people all shut down together in a place. I don't know. I don't know what the point was. And then I enter the Peppa Pig's World.Massimiliano Freddi: And it blows my mind. And again, what blows my mind is that it didn't have any huge attraction. But it had that feeling. And people were just so happy. It was magic. Little kids there with their families, a lot of strollers all over the place, traffic jams due to strollers. And so I came back and I said, 'Hey, we need to get Peppa Pig.' And I remember that the team was like, 'It can't happen.' It has happened. In the end, we were the second park in the world after Paulton's Park to get Peppa. And that reshaped the entire strategy of the park we had at that time, turning it into what we wanted to achieve, is to become the best park for the kids under the age of 10 in Southern Europe. And best means really the best, rated from the bottom of the heart. And so this is what has happened. So I think that, you know, before Leolandia, I had worked for Disneyland Paris and I'm a big Disney fan. So that was kind of the school I had attended and I just had to apply. The theory that I've learned, I had to apply it, and I had a fantastic team and the resources to do that.Paul Marden: Amazing. Now, fast forward to 2018, and you've taken the step from MD to founder and founded Wonderwood on Lake Maggiore. Now, let's test my Italian. You've also founded Wonderwood Spina Verde. Massimiliano Freddi: I'm speechless. I can't correct anything.Paul Marden: Wonderful. Overlooking Lake Como, both of which, by the way, were... So I've been to Maggiore and Lake Como for my honeymoon. So a beautiful, beautiful place. And you've put two parks there. How has that been?Massimiliano Freddi:  It has been crazy. So I remember that the first year, and I mean, we created the company at the end of 2018. We've opened our gates in the summer of 2019. Now, if we all remember what has happened at the beginning of 2020.Paul Marden: Yeah.Massimiliano Freddi: Okay, so perfect timing. Now, I can tell you that the first season, every day, I would literally cry, but for real.Massimilliano Freddi: I was exhausted. My husband was exhausted. We thought that this was a nightmare, the worst possible nightmare. And if somebody had knocked on my door and asked me, 'Hey, could I just take it over?' I don't give you a penny. I will just take home the loans. I would have said yes. And that's because, of course, every project is over budget. Of course. No matter. No matter.Massimiliano Freddi: And when it's a family company and you don't have the money because you've contracted several loans and so on, it makes it super, super difficult. So in that moment, my call for action was because the possibility of Lake Maggiore was in the town where I spent every summer as a kid. So it was a love story. And I wanted to give back to the community. I wanted to do something in the nature that would inspire kids to hike more. To become more active and just not only to stay in front of a screen, but to do something different. So that came out of this kind of dream. And so it was a nightmare. It was a nightmare at the very beginning. Then COVID hit and we were very lucky, of course, because we didn't lose anyone from our families and friends. So I am very thankful for that. And at the same time, it gave us the possibility to stop for a second, rewind, and refine our strategy.Massimiliano Freddi: Because we had just closed the park in, I mean, the week before Christmas, and we were supposed to reopen in less than three months, but we were exhausted. So I'm telling this story because usually it's so nice to tell that the triumphs, you know, and say, 'Hey, it's been fantastic.' Yeah, we nailed it. We had, no, we made 200 mistakes.Massimiliano Freddi: And we paid for all the mistakes. So I think that in that moment, yeah, we were struggling at the beginning. We were reflecting in the middle part. And then three years ago, two to three years ago, I woke up one morning and I understood that I really loved what I was doing. And it had changed. It had changed. And seeing so many families happy and so many people visiting and seeing... How many young professionals or students started to work with us and then you see them leaping? I think that this is the most beautiful thing on earth. It's very empowering. So right now I'm in this situation where I am so grateful for this entire six years, even if they started in a way that was very, very heavy. But, you know, the Latins used to say 'per aspera ad astra.' It means... 'towards the stars through the asperities.' And so we need to go through that thing, that tunnel.Paul Marden: Absolutely. Now, as if founding your own parks wasn't enough, you also mix your time as a professor at the university. I can hear from what you were talking about, about bringing the young professionals into the park, that there's an element to you of apprenticeship almost, of teaching that next cohort of people that are going to come and take over the world.Paul Marden: How exciting is that for you to be able to mix that in at the university?Massimiliano Freddi: It's fantastic. It's fantastic. And again, it came out of passion. It came out. I didn't do a PhD after my university. My career wasn't supposed to be the academic one. And I didn't trust I would be able to do that. And then I got called for a lecture, then two lectures, and three lectures. And then, right now, I have several courses at university.Massimiliano Freddi: There's a point. The point is that, if we meet between our age of 14, 14, 15, until our 25, and if we narrow it down, it's between maybe 16 and 22, this is the moment in which it's more important to meet some mentors. And most of us don't meet mentors. They meet nice people around them, giving them very nice advice based on their experience and not seeing the talents they have in front of them. And in several cases, we are scared. We think that we are not enough. And so I really think that it's such a huge privilege for me to be able to be at university and to meet so many hundreds of students every year and to try to make my small impact so that, first of all, they can believe in themselves and they can believe that the world can be a better place, even if right now it's kind of a tough moment. But from tough moments, again, we can learn things.Massimiliano Freddi: Even at IAAPA, one of the things that I really am passionate more about is what are the spaces we can create for young professionals and students. So I want to give two very short examples. The IAAPA Foundation has evolved a lot over the last few years. We were able to collect so many more donations.Massimiliano Freddi: And now, this year, it will be a record-breaking year when it comes to scholarships to which students can apply in universities around the globe. So I think that's... But to me and to all of us in the board of the IAAPA Foundation, that's like the starting point. We are here celebrating because it's a big achievement and then we look each other in the eyes and say, 'Okay, now what's next?' Now, how can we make sure that the impact is even bigger? And if we go on the side of IAAPA, I think we are very... We pay a lot of attention to make sure that the membership fees are very low for the people entering. The word of leisure. Just a few weeks ago, it got launched on the IAAPA job board that whoever has a company and wants to post an internship, that's free to post. So that, you know, there could be thousands of internships available for students.Massimiliano Freddi: Of course, as a big association, we are used to talk to members and maybe older members because we visit facilities and we visit manufacturers and we need to deal with safety and stuff. But students and young professionals are not on the back of my head. They are like near and dear to my heart. And so my real question is: when this year ends in a couple of months, how can I dedicate myself even more to contribute to young people? Because I think that they are making a change. They will make a change. And we are learning so much from them because the work we are leaving you and me right now. I have bad news. It's no longer our world. We don't have the code to decode that. So we don't have the keys. We can just support people that are better than us and make sure that they can live, that they can teach, that they can learn.  That's a bit of what I see.Paul Marden: I completely agree with you. I think it's interesting because you talk about what you're giving, but you're also getting something back. This is not entirely altruistic, is it? The support that you're giving for these young people and early career professionals, you're getting something back, enriching yourself and learning new things from them.Massimiliano Freddi: Always, always. And I think that, you know, I don't always teach. Market leisure marketing and stuff— you know, I teach marketing at a at a Master's Degree in Management of Beauty and Wellness, total different industry, you know, food and wine. As I was telling, but what I bring home every time is how much young people need to feel seen and, and this is truly important because if we create for them not a safe zone, because of course we want them to get messy. We want them to take risks, but they need to feel safe as humans and they need to feel safe as seen. And so I appreciate a lot this because then the energy that I... And you know, when we talk about IAAPA, we have so many ambassadors that have been contributing to the IAAPA trade shows and events all over the globe. We have young people joining the committees.Massimiliano Freddi: Right now, there are a few, more than a few young professional task forces around the globe that are really helping us, old people, to understand what they need. So I think that we are at the very beginning. And if I could say a dream out loud, I wish that IAAPA in five or ten years, maybe in five years, can multiply the number of young engaged people in the association by 100. 10 is not enough. 20 is by 100. We need to make an impact. And I think we want to make an impact. So hopefully.Paul Marden: Well, there's an ambition for you. And I think every... worthwhile project— every it always starts with that kind of ambitious goal— at the very beginning of it you need to be driven by that  hundred times impact not the 10 times impact we we always like to finish our interviews with a book recommendation, fiction, non-fiction, industry-related or not, give us a view uh into your reading habits, okay, so can I mention more than one book? You bankrupt me because I always offer the book recommendation as a prize for people, but you can have more than one.Massimiliano Freddi: Okay. Okay. Thank you because I'm a big reader. So the first author that I would love to mention is J. K. Rowling because Harry Potter is not just a story of a kid or of magic, but it's a story of a woman who was a bit desperate. And then... She followed what she was feeling. She allowed her emotions to flow. And she has created a masterpiece. And she has impacted us all, you know, no matter business-related, non-business-related, and so on. So I think that, to read again, the first Harry Potter book, it's very important because it brings us back to some reason why, you know, and to some things. The second book that I would love to mention is a book written by Seth Godin. I have had the privilege to work for Seth for several years.Paul Marden: Really?Massimiliano Freddi: And yeah, he's an amazing guy. He's an amazing guy. And come on, he's such a generous person and he's amazing.Massimiliano Freddi: I don't have any other words that's amazing. He wrote a book maybe 10 years ago, 15 years ago called Linchpin. And Linchpin is not his most famous book, but it's the book that changed my life because it really nudges you. In a gentle and not so gentle way sometimes. No, I'm saying in a gentle way. It nudges you to don't set for what you have, but to see your inner talents and to innovate and to be creative, be generous, and so on. So, Linchpin to me is the book that changed it all for me. So, I think that everybody, young, less young, everybody should read once in a lifetime.Paul Marden: I feel like I need to go and read this because that is one Seth Godin book I have not read. So there we go. Listeners, if you would like a copy of Linchpin, then the first person that heads over to LinkedIn and reposts our show notice and says, 'I want Massimiliano's book' and can spell Massimiliano correctly, will have a copy of the book sent to them. We've got IAAPA Europe taking place next week in Barcelona.Paul Marden: And we have a very special Skip the Queue announcement. We are going to be hitting the show floor on a daily basis. We are going to go live for daily episodes of Skip the Queue from the show floor. We're going to be talking to operators about what their challenges are like. Finding out what new supplier announcements are coming out. And the Skip the Queue team is going to be feverishly working away. We'll be recording during the day and Steve and Wenalyn will be editing and producing through the night, ready to post the show the following morning. So I'm very excited about that.Massimiliano Freddi: And I think we are super excited to have you guys on the trade show floor. And I recommend... Of course, visiting it, making the most out of it, and don't underestimate the fantastic education sessions that take place. There is a strong lineup of speakers that will impact the way that the industry will be in a few years. So, great opportunity.Paul Marden:  How's that for a trailer? That sounds amazing. Massimilliano, it really has been a pleasure to talk to you.Massimiliano Freddi: Thank you so much, Paul, for me as well. And see you in Barcelona.Paul Marden: Yes, how exciting. Looking forward to it.Paul Marden: Remember, if you'd like a copy of today's book, head over to LinkedIn and repost our show notice saying, 'I want a copy of Massimiliano's book.' If you've enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your podcasting platform. It really helps people to find the show. If you didn't enjoy it, or you've got ideas about how we could improve the show, then let us know at hello@skipthequeue.fm. My thanks to Massimiliano and his team at IAAPA for their help with this episode. Skip The Queue is brought to you by Rubber Cheese, the digital agency that creates amazing websites for ambitious visitor attractions. This episode was written by Emily Burrows, produced by Wenalyn Dionaldo and edited by Steve Folland. To Skip the Queue team, also includes Sami Entwistle, Sinead Kimberley, Claire Furnival, and Andy Povey. The 2025 Visitor Attraction Website Survey is now LIVE! Dive into groundbreaking benchmarks for the industryGain a better understanding of how to achieve the highest conversion ratesExplore the "why" behind visitor attraction site performanceLearn the impact of website optimisation and visitor engagement on conversion ratesUncover key steps to enhance user experience for greater conversionsTake the Rubber Cheese Visitor Attraction Website Survey Report

Traveling to Italy with kids? It's absolutely doable—and unforgettable! In this episode of Travel Italia, I share practical tips for navigating Italy with children of all ages, from toddlers to teens.You'll learn:✅ Universal family travel tips for smoother days in Italy✅ Strategies tailored to young children, school-aged kids, and teenagers✅ The best family-friendly activities in Rome, Florence, Venice, and MilanFrom gladiator school in Rome to boat rides in Venice, and science museums in Milan, this episode is packed with realistic, parent-approved ideas to keep your kids happy while you soak up the beauty of Italy. Whether you're planning your first trip or your fifth, you'll walk away with fresh strategies to make your family adventure less stressful and more magical. Perfect for: parents planning an Italian vacation, families traveling with kids of any age, and anyone looking to balance sightseeing with fun, kid-friendly downtime.These are links to the tours, museums, and churches mentioned in the podast:Rome:Gladiator School:Family friendly Colosseum tourBio Park ZooVilla BorghesePercy Jackson Tour: Capuchin Crypts:Florence: Uffizi tour for kidsGalileo museumLeonardo Da Vinci museumPizza making class: Ebike tour to Piazzale MichelangeloPlaces to climb: Giotto's Tower and dome of the Duomo. All in one ticketTower of Palazzo Vecchio (Old City Hall)Venice:Vaporetto, public ferry systemMurano and Burano guided tour with glass blowing exhibitNatural History Museum of Venice: Venice Ghost and Legends TourMilan: Parco Sempione Parco Sempione AquariumLeonardo 3 MuseumWindow Shopping in Galleria EmmanueleMilan Street Food TourHigh End Fashion DistrictTerraces of the Duomo of MilanDay trip from Milan to Lake Como

This week on @ Betches, Sami, Jordana, and Aleen are back to unpack the end of wedding season. From Alexia Umansky's star-studded nuptials (where exactly were Kim Richards and Paris Hilton?) to Becca Bloom's #RichTok extravaganza on Lake Como. Then, they dive into Gwyneth Paltrow's wild new unauthorized biography and her rise from Hollywood It Girl. They also break down the fall fashion trends making a major comeback, including lace skirts and barn jackets. Finally, the trio discuss if The Paper has what it takes to live up to The Office's legacy. Go to the Betches YouTube page to watch full length episodes every Friday: Youtube.com/@Betches Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Balsamic vinegar ... but not as you know it. Let's uncover the centuries-old process behind this iconic Italian treasure. Discover why it's a must-try for food lovers, how to spot the real deal, and delicious ways to enjoy authentic balsamic vinegar on your next travel adventure in Italy. Our tours of the Emilia region - go hereRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/290NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Hello and welcome to a brand-new season of Travel Stories with Moush! It's such a joy to kick off Season 5 and before anything else, I want to thank each and every one of you. Your support has helped this podcast grow, win accolades and climb the charts time and again. Please keep supporting and subscribing coz it's the only way we can keep bringing you these incredible stories from around the world.In this episode of the podcast, we set sail with Dani Wilson Naqvi - luxury family travel curator and award-winning travel designer, as she takes us across some of the world's most extraordinary places.Episode Highlights:• Raja Ampat, Indonesia - Dani shares her once-in-a-lifetime sailing adventure through this “Lost Paradise”.• Rwanda & Africa - A deeply moving experience trekking with gorillas in Rwanda and learning lessons of peace and resilience from its people.• Okavango Delta and Botswana – She recalls safaris in these places where her children's classrooms became the wild outdoors.• Bhutan - A destination she treasures for its philosophy of simplicity.• Sri Lanka - Why she believes this island is one of the world's most underrated gems.• Cape Town & South Africa – Great for remote living and a haven for foodies.• Norwegian fjords – Discovering Restaurant Iris – a hidden gem.              https://www.restaurantiris.no/• Lake Como – Luxury meets unforgettable experiences at Passalacqua.              https://www.passalacqua.it/en/• Costa Rica – Discover the Blue Zones.• Brazil -Journey across the Amazon.Connect with Dani at:https://www.instagram.com/daniwilsonnaqvi/Thank you all for tuning in today!If you enjoyed this episode, please hit that subscribe button here, or on your favorite podcast platform.I'd love to hear from you! What destinations or guests should we feature next? Drop a comment, leave a rating, or write a review - it truly makes a difference.Stay connected with me on Instagram @moushtravels to find out who's joining me next week. You can also explore all past episodes and destinations mentioned by our guests on www.moushtravels.com or in the episode show notes.Thanks for listening! Until next time, safe travels and keep adventuring. "Want a spotlight on our show? Visit https://admanager.fm/client/podcasts/moushtravels and align your brand with our audience."Connect with me on the following:Instagram @moushtravelsFacebook @travelstorieswithmoushLinkedIn @Moushumi BhuyanYou Tube @travelstorieswithmoush

Hollywood chatter heats up as rumors swirl about Drake and Kim Kardashian spending time together in Lake Como, with fans speculating about whether the two megastars are more than just friends. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show dives into a heavy mix of news and entertainment, starting with the shocking death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed during a speaking event in Utah, sparking national reactions from leaders across the political spectrum. On the lighter side, Hollywood chatter heats up as rumors swirl about Drake and Kim Kardashian spending time together in Lake Como, with fans speculating about whether the two megastars are more than just friends. Wrapping things up on a nostalgic note, actresses Jill Marie Jones and Golden Brooks celebrate the 25th anniversary of the hit sitcom Girlfriends, reflecting on its cultural impact and the lasting sisterhood it created on and off screen. Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you travel for food? Sicily is one of the best places for an Italian foodie adventure especially if you're a sweet tooth. Most of us know cannoli but what other sweet treats can you find in Sicily? Find out what to taste and where to find the most delicious Sicilian sweets when you're traveling around the island.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/289NEW! - the Untold Italy app - 12 regions now available - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

It all started with a Google Doc. Half of you—like Holly—are going to love it. The other half? Yeah, maybe not so much. But stick with us, because this isn’t just admin—it’s a document your loved ones will thank you for one day. We've made it easy for you by including a link to it below. Download or... ignore. And, Amelia’s latest internet obsession takes us deep into the world of weddings of the super rich. Think: Croesus, filthy rich, LOADED. Yes, we're saying hello to Becca Bloom and discussing the rise of Rich-Tok. What does a 'status wedding' actually cost—and why can’t we look away? Plus, your weekly reccos:

We are live on the shores of Lake Como in Italy where trade and defence will the focus at the Ambrosetti Forum. We hear from Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz who says the EU should have performed better in trade negotiations with the U.S. The S&P 500 hits a new record high and bond yields fall following this week's multi-year highs as markets await today's U.S. jobs data, hoping for further Fed rates easing. Ukrainian allies agree to post-war security guarantees at a summit in Paris with arrangements made for international troops to be stationed on land and at sea, despite admitting that a peace deal remains elusive.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Topics: doubling down in a fight, “shrekking”, honeymoon in Lake Como, bottle service, mushrooms at the Backstreet Boys, Alexis saw the Justin Bieber impersonator, voodoo Labubus and things we used to collect, Love Island and RHOCSponsors:Head to https://Homeaglow.com/Tasteoftaylor to get your first 3 hours of cleaning for only $19. Thanks so much to Homeaglow for sponsoring this episode! Visit womanizer.com and use code TAYLOR at checkout for 20% off sitewideVisit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn moreGo to quince.com/taylor for free shipping and 365 day returns See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Getting ready to travel to Italy in 2026? We're discussing the travel trends and ideas shaping future trips to Italy. From AI itineraries to slow travel principles, planning your vacation looks a little different than it has in the past.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/288NEW! - the Untold Italy app - 11 regions now available - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

If you've ever fallen head-over-heels for a story that feels like home, you already understand the magic of Adriana Trigiani. Author, screenwriter, director, podcaster, and tireless champion of craft, Adriana has written more than twenty books—and her newest novel, The View from Lake Como, is a heartfelt exploration of family, reinvention, and the tug of Italy on an Italian-American soul.

Following the vines through Umbria yields rich rewards. Discover the untold wines of this central Italian region and follow their stories through rolling hills home to medieval towns and long held traditions. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/287NEW! - the Untold Italy app - Umbria guide available - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Substack • Facebook • YouTube • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

This week I cover Lombardy/Lombardia, one of the smaller wine production areas of Italy.  Lombardy, home to the cities of Milan, Bergamo and Brescia is known far more for its fashion, its industry, and osso bucco and risotto alla Milanese than it is for its wines, but there are some gems to be discovered.  Photo: Lugana Credit: Consorzio Lugana   Because there is limited availability of these wines, I only cover the major regions that you may encounter and discuss the terrain of Lombardy and the terroir of each of the fine wine regions.   Lombardy is known in the wine world primarily for Franciacorta, the sparkling wine made in the Champagne method, which has been called the best sparkling wine of Italy. But Lombardy is is more than just Franciacorta. There are exceptional sparkling, sweet, and still wines of Oltrepò Pavese in the southwest of the region, complex reds from the Alpine area of Valtellina on the Swiss border, tasty, refreshing whites from Lugana near Lake Garda, and  other interesting regions that have significant production.   Photo: Valtellina. Credit: Consorzio Valtellina   I hope you enjoy this look at one of the smaller wine producing areas of Italy and, more importantly, that you can use this info if you ever see these wines on the shelf or (more fun!) find yourself in Lake Garda or Lake Como or Milano with some time and desire to explore the wines of this beautiful place!   Full show notes and all back episodes are on Patreon. Join the community today! www.patreon.com/winefornormalpeople _______________________________________________________________   This show is brought to you by my exclusive sponsor, Wine Access – THE place to discover your next favorite bottle. Wine Access has highly allocated wines and incredible values, plus free shipping on orders of $150 or more. You can't go wrong with Wine Access! Join the WFNP/Wine Access wine club and get 6 awesome bottles for just $150 four times a year. That includes shipping! When you become a member, you also get 10% all your purchases on the site. Go to wineaccess.com/normal to sign up! 

Love travel and history? Join us as anthropologist Dr. Monique Skidmore unveils the world of the Etruscans in Tuscany - the original Italians - revealing their unique culture, powerful women, and the incredible sites you can visit to walk in their footsteps today.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/286NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Substack • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

On this Episode of the DWA! Podcast, Lane and Clark Sopper of RoundCat Racing are recording from a cafe in Napa Valley. Clark discusses his trips to Lake Como, and Goodwood for the festival of speed, and tunning shops like GTO Engineering.We also talk about the upcoming RoundCat Rally in Japan, and why everyone listening NEEDS to go. Check out RoundCat Racing and info about his rally at www.roundcat.jp

Fresh off my honeymoon in Lake Como and Saint-Tropez, I'm spilling ALL the tea on newlywed life, Aperol spritz overloads, unexpected K-holes, and the emotional rollercoaster that is my luteal phase. Plus, I read YOUR wild voicemails! Oh, and my mom called in… and dragged me.

Imagine being alone in the Vatican Museums at sunrise, turning on the lights in the Sistine Chapel, or stepping into Florence's Duomo to view Brunelleschi's dome with a handful of other travelers after hours. We're discussing recently added VIP experiences at some of Italy's most iconic sites with Walks of Italy's Denyse PantaleoRome - Vatican Key Master's Tour - tour detailsRome - Alone in the Sistine Chapel - tour detailsRome - Colosseum Tour with VIP Caesar's Palace - tour detailsFlorence - Alone in the Duomo with private terrace access - tour detailsVenice - Alone in St Mark's with Doge's Palace - tour detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/285NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

The best part of a book tour is seeing all of you. You showed up in 24 sold out cities to celebrate The View from Lake Como, and we had a ball! Your reviews for The View from Lake Como have meant the world, and your questions are illuminating. On this week's episode of You Are What You Read, we are joined by… you! This week is dedicated to the thousands of you who joined us at events and shared your stories with us. Select events featured audience Q&As that we would like to share with you today. From Cleveland, OH to Westport, CT to Richmond, VA, your questions moved us and delighted us.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Solo traveler Rebel shares her transformative journeys in Italy, from spontaneous friendships to joining a traditional flower festival in Umbria, and hear how you too can find magic, community, and adventure in "untold" Italy!*Untold Italy Tours - detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/284NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Adriana Trigiani is a true joy, and her new novel, The View from Lake Como, is a love letter to Italy.  Italian by birth, Italy always plays a big role in Adriana's books, and in this novel, Italy is the central character.  This book contains unforgettable characters, subtle and complex relationships with the artisan beauty of marble thrown in…Adriana writes it all with authenticity and heart.  Join us while we talk about what makes Italy…well Italy, and stick around for a great bookstore in Delaware, the Hockessin Bookshelf. Find books mentioned on The Book Case: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/shop/story/book-case-podcast-reading-list-118433302 Books mentioned in this week's episode: The View from Lake Como by Adriana TrigianiThe Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana TrigianiLucia, Lucia by Adriana TrigianiThe Good Left Undone by Adriana TrigianiVery Valentine by Adriana TrigianiBig Stone Gap by Adriana TrigianiBig Cherry Holler by Adriana TrigianiMilk Glass Moon by Adriana TrigianiViola in the Spotlight by Adriana TrigianiViola in Reel Life by Adriana TrigianiThe Supreme Macaroni Company by Adriana TrigianiAll the Stars in Heaven by Adriana TrigianiBrava, Valentine by Adriana TrigianiKiss Carlo by Adriana TrigianiTony's Wife by Adriana TrigianiA Tale of Two Cities by Charles DickensHamlet by William ShakespeareA Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodMoby Dick by Herman Melville Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It has been a joy to see you all this summer with The View from Lake Como. We are having a ball and can't wait to see more of you on the road this week! We had a sold out crowd at The Westport Library in Connecticut, and we were thrilled to be joined by moderator Christina Geist for a conversation about The View from Lake Como. Christina Geist is author of three bestselling children's books: Buddy's Bedtime Battery; Sorry, Grown-Ups, You Can't Go to School; and Buddy's New Buddy. Her latest book, Before You Fly Away, is a must-read for teens and young adults starting life on their own. We loved this conversation with Christina and can't wait to share it with you all here today. We'd like to thank the fabulous crew from Verso Studios at The Westport Library for the recording of this episode.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Lake Como tour is in full swing! Thank you all for your support of The View from Lake Como- a New York Times, USA Today and Regional best seller across the country. We could not have done this without you! It has been a joy to see you on the road. We hope you loved our Lake Como Shows with Mike Trigiani and the Predictables., and we hope you have enjoyed our in-conversation events- one of which we are bringing you today. Thousands of you came out to see us in Youngstown and Cleveland, Ohio. This is our conversation with beloved librarian and dear friend, Ron Block, from the Cuyahoga County Public Library. Thank you to the library for the production of this episode.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Curious what happens when you mix Roman rooftop bars, a Vespa sidecar adventure, medieval towns, and the Umbrian countryside? Join host Katy Clarke as she shares her latest Italy trip report, revealing insider tips, plus unforgettable highlights from Rome, Naples, Orvieto and untold Urbino.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/283NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

In today's BB Podcast episode (No. 139), we're visiting with world-renowned floral artist Kiana Underwood and her husband and business partner, Nate Underwood. Eight years after their first appearance on the Botanical Brouhaha podcast, we invited them back to reflect on the massive evolution of their business, Tulipina—from planting bulbs on their New York farm to becoming a global floral powerhouse with a 10,000-square-foot studio in Lake Como. They open up about building a business in Europe, navigating the luxury wedding industry with integrity, and finding balance between creativity, family, and ambition. It's a powerful conversation about values, resilience, and the courage to dream big while staying grounded. Join us as we chat with Kiana & Nate about: Life changes since their first podcast appearance, including an empty nest and evolving dreams Moving to upstate New York and establishing a second home and business in Italy Behind the scenes of building Tulipina's European presence post-COVID The challenges and opportunities of working in the "luxury" floral market (although Nate isn't fond of the word luxury!) How they structure their business to support creativity and profitability Why they don't do design renders—and how they protect creative freedom Honest reflections on industry dynamics and staying true to your values Kiana's design process from ordering flowers to wedding day improvisation Favorite projects, including the epic Paris Opera House wedding Thoughts on what luxury and success truly mean—and what's next for Tulipina Links mentioned in this episode: Rachel Birthistle | The Lake Como Wedding Planner Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey Color Me Floral: Stunning Monochromatic Arrangements for Every Season (by Kiana Underwood) Tulipina's Floral Fantasy: Magnificent Arrangements and Design Inspiration from World-Renowned Florist Kiana Underwood The Paris Opera House wedding This episode of the Botanical Brouhaha Podcast is brought to you by: Madrid Flower School You can find show notes and more episodes of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast at botanicalbrouhaha.com, and you can find the BB Podcast co-hosts on IG @botanicalbrouhaha and @hey.nataliegill. This episode of The Botanical Brouhaha Podcast was produced by Joel McGee. Original music by Landon McGee.     

Welcome to the Well-Seasoned Librarian Podcast Season 16 Episode 11. Today, your host Dean Jones is absolutely thrilled to introduce our distinguished guest, Adriana Trigiani.Adriana has spent a lifetime immersed in stories and now is a captivating, New York Times bestselling author beloved by millions of readers around the world. Her journey has taken her from growing up in the heart of Appalachia in a big Italian family, where her own mother was a librarian, to the stunning shores of Lake Como, the inspiration for her evocative new novel, "The View from Lake Como."Known for her "dazzling" novels and called "a comedy writer with a heart of gold" by The New York Times, Adriana's work has been published in 38 countries. She's the brilliant mind behind blockbusters like "The Shoemaker's Wife", the "Big Stone Gap" series, and the "Valentine" trilogy. Her themes of love, work, craftsmanship, and family life have earned her legions of devoted fans, making her one of "the reigning queens of women's fiction."But Adriana is more than just an author; she's also the host of the hit podcast, "You Are What You Read," where she interviews luminaries like Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Hannah, Whoopi Goldberg, and David Baldacci about the books that built their souls.Today, you'll delve into her latest masterpiece, "The View from Lake Como," hitting shelves July 8th, 2025 – already named Publisher's Weekly's "Best Book of Summer 2025." Get ready to dive into a life rich with experience and a story that promises to transport you.Stay tuned, because after the break, you'll sit down with Adriana Trigiani to talk about her incredible journey and her newest novel. You won't want to miss THE ORIGIN PROJECT https://adrianatrigiani.com/the-origin-project/The View From Lake Como: A Novel If you follow my podcast and enjoy it, I'm on @buymeacoffee. If you like my work, you can buy me a coffee and share your thoughts

The Dolomites region has an unfair advantage. Blessed with spectacular nature, it's also home to some of Italy's most celebrated small batch wine. Here grapes grow on vines clinging to mountainsides and are full of flavor. Discover the wines of the region and where to taste them with our friends from Italian Wine Tales.*Untold Italy's Dolomites tour - detailsRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/282NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott mog all over Wimbledon, $400 melons in The Hamptons, Italian weddings and luxury Lake Como hotels, Keith McNally's book, Bruv Summer featuring Oasis, and more.Subscribe to the newsletter: retailpod.substack.com willdefries.substack.com Shop the Sunday Scaries Scented Candles: www.vellabox.com/sundayscariesWatch all Retail Therapy episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/sundayscariespodcastSupport This Week's SponsorsShopify: www.shopify.com/scaries ($1/month trial!)Aura Frames: www.auraframes.com (AURA20 for $30 off plus free shipping)Follow AlongRetail Therapy on Instagram: www.instagram.com/retail.podWill deFries on Twitter: www.twitter.com/willdefriesWill deFries on Instagram: www.instagram.com/willdefries Barrett Dudley on Twitter: www.twitter.com/barrettdudleyBarrett Dudley on Instagram: www.instagram.com/barrettdudleySunday Scaries on Twitter: www.twitter.com/sundayscariesSunday Scaries on Instagram: www.instagram.com/sunday.scaries

Brush up on some Italian cultural nuances before your trip with these essential tips for dining and eating when in Italy. Enjoy this favorite episode featuring Nesim Bekalti from Full Belly Tours while we take a short mid year break. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/281NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

New York Times bestselling author Adriana Trigiani returns to the podcast to discuss her effervescent and big-hearted new book, THE VIEW FROM LAKE COMO. The two dive into the novel's surprising New Jersey setting (yes, that Lake Como) and the emotional journey of protagonist Jess Capodimonte Baratta, an Italian-American woman rebuilding her life and identity after divorce, family loss, and unearthed secrets. They explore themes of self-love, legacy, and the delicate strength of women—likened to marble that can endure anything but shatter with one wrong tap (Adriana even shares some insights on the Italian marble trade).Purchase on Bookshop: https://bit.ly/4eEOMfmShare, rate, & review the podcast, and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The View from Lake Como, Adriana's newest novel, is out today! To celebrate, we are joined by a You Are What You Read fan-favorite, Susie Essman. You know Susie in her iconic, hilarious role as Susie Greene in Curb Your Enthusiasm alongside her longtime co-star Larry David. She's a stand-up comedian, actress, writer, television producer, and a very dear friend. Susie joins us today for a conversation about "the most anticipated read of Summer 2025 (USA Today)", The View from Lake Como. In this episode, we talk about the creative process being the novel and the inspiration for Adriana's 21st book. The View from Lake Como is available now wherever books are sold.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Go off the beaten path in Italy's northern Veneto region and discover Vicenza, a city bursting with Renaissance treasures. Enjoy this favorite episode while we take a short mid year break. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/279NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Italy's Lake Como with this luxurious bedtime story for grown-ups. Let Michelle's soothing voice guide you through a day of enchanting strolls, a sunset lake cruise, and a starlit aperitivo at your private lakeside villa. Immerse yourself in the opulent serenity and vivid sensory details designed to melt away your stress and transport you to profound peace. It's time to dream away.Vocals are recorded live by Michelle Hotaling. Original script, production, sound design, and sleep music by Michelle Hotaling, Dreamaway Visions LLC All Rights Reserved 2025YOUTUBE: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/michellessanctuary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠INSTAGRAM: ⁠https://instagram.com/michellessanctuary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FACEBOOK:⁠https://www.facebook.com/michellessanctuary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TIKTOK: ⁠http://www.tiktok.com/@michellessanctuary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TWITTER: ⁠http://twitter.com/michsanctuary/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email Michelle: ⁠michellessanctuary@gmail.com⁠If you would like to support this channel:⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/michsanctuary⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.paypal.me/michellessanctuary⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.venmo.com/michellehotaling⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out my new podcast, Meditation Tides, for guided meditations and let the tides of your breath bring the tranquility you deserve. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/meditationtides/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Michelle's Sanctuary is a place where you may enjoy high quality relaxing stories for sleep and guided sleep meditations completely FREE with a focus on mental vacations, sleep hypnosis, manifestations, and using your imagination to enjoy relaxing adventures before bedtime. Grown-ups deserve bedtime stories too!Having firsthand experience with anxiety, insomnia, and a strong desire to connect with my higher self and live my best life, I have tailored these recordings in ways that I have personally found helpful. This channel is not a replacement for consultations with a doctor or medical professional but can help you find more balance and a healing night's sleep. I always welcome comments, feedback & suggestions.

Want to learn a little Italian for your trip? Enjoy this favorite episode featuring Michele Frolla from Intrepid Italian while we take a short mid year break. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/279NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

What is it like growing up in one of the most storied and iconic hotels in Italy? Ask Valentina de Santis, who was raised in the kitchens and ballrooms of Lake Como's Grand Hotel Tremezzo and now runs the charismatic Passalacqua along with her parents nearby. Lale chats with the hotelier to hear stories of life on Lake Como, get tips on traveling in both summer and the off-season, and what it really means to live La Dolce Vita. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

BBQ Judging, Scythe Harvesting, and Christian MarriageBarbecue Competition Judging: Adam shares his first experience as a barbecue competition judge at a local Catholic church and school fundraiser in Tulsa, where he was joined by his son Jude (assistant judge) and two priests.Judged four categories: chicken, pulled pork, ribs, and brisket (Adam insists brisket is the primary measure; David (wrongly) argues for ribs).12 pit masters competed; judged on appearance, taste, tenderness, texture, uniqueness, and overall (max score 25).Advice from Joe Martin's son: Take one bite per entry to avoid overeating (48 bites total across 40 minutes).Adam judged strictly (e.g., scores as low as 14, zero for appearance), while priests gave higher scores (23–24), highlighting differing standards.Event fostered camaraderie among pit masters (12 hours together) and service to attendees, teaching kids sacrifice, friendship, and craft articulation.Shout-out to Brian Schooley for organizing; Adam and David plan to enter as The Catholic Man Show next year, with Jim in a dunk tank.Main DiscussionWheat Harvest with a ScytheDavid's Experience: David harvested two 45x45-foot wheat plots using a scythe, finding it soothing, peaceful, and in tune with nature despite being exhausting.Quotes Wendell Berry: “The means we use to do our work almost certainly affects the way we look at the world” (via an X account, @minahan8).Compared to last year's sickle (felt “commie”), the scythe was efficient for small-scale farming; not practical for large-scale but satisfying.Kids raked straw (post-harvest, nutritionless due to seeding) for pig bedding or garden mulch; straw vs. hay explained (hay retains nutrition).Adam plans to borrow David's scythe for his own wheat harvest, nervous about back strain.Wendell Berry Reflection: Hosts revisit Berry's essays, appreciating his beautiful, idealistic conclusions but finding his reasoning insufficient (e.g., abandoning tractors would starve people).Compare Berry's idealism to J.R.R. Tolkien and Guardini's Letters at Lake Como; both depict lovely worlds but lack practical solutions for modern challenges.Christian Marriage and Pope Leo XIIIIntroduction to Pope Leo XIII: Adam introduces Pope Leo XIII (1810–1903), a prophetic figure who addressed modernity's challenges (secularism, communism, liberalism) in the late 19th century.Known for Rerum Novarum (1891, Catholic social teaching), reviving Thomism in seminaries (to counter Nietzsche, Hegel, and communism), and engaging modern society.His encyclical Arcanum Divinae Sapientiae (1880) emphasizes Christian marriage as a divine, not secular, institution, foundational to society.Critiqued rise of divorce, moral relativism, and civil interference undermining marriage's sanctity; argued church, not state, holds primary authority over marriage.Marriage as Trinitarian Image: Marriage mirrors the Trinity's relational society, where spousal love is so real it produces a third (child), reflecting Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Secular view (Enlightenment-era and today) reduces marriage to a consensual contract, ignoring its sacramental, stable, and permanent nature.State has a role in regulating marriage per natural law, but church's supernatural authority supersedes.Ephesians 5 and Mutual SubmissionScriptural Basis: Leo XIII references Ephesians 5 (footnoted), where St. Paul instructs mutual submission out of reverence for Christ, with specific roles: wives submit to husbands, husbands love wives as Christ loved the church.Secular society fixates on “wives submit,” ignoring mutual submission and...

Venice has evolved and changed in response to many difficult circumstances over the centuries. Today the city faces environmental and overtourism pressures  - how will it adapt? Katy chats with journalist Erica Hill about a a new film exploring local initiatives aimed at retaining the economic benefits of tourism while preserving this beloved city and its unique culture.“Saving Venice” and the entire “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper” library is available to stream now on Max or enjoyed as a “showcast” wherever you get your podcasts.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/278NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!