Podcasts about Sicilian

What if the rich flavors of Italian American culture could speak the stories of centuries? This episode promises a delicious exploration of Italian American heritage, as John and Pat take you on a captivating journey through the heart of Little Italy in New York City. From the humorous mishaps with Sicilian garduna to the challenges of sourcing authentic ingredients, we unravel the culinary traditions that have shaped our families and continue to influence our kitchens today.   Stepping into the past, we illuminate the vibrant and often overlooked history of Norman Sicily. Discover the legacy of Roger II, whose strategic brilliance transformed Sicily into a prosperous kingdom. We draw parallels between medieval Sicily and England, highlighting the Normans' far-reaching influence and their unique governance, which allowed for a flourishing, culturally rich society. Through fascinating stories and meticulous research, we reveal how these medieval connections still echo through time.   Finally, we delve into the enduring impact of Norman rule in Sicily and the ongoing efforts to preserve this heritage through the innovative Norman Sicily Project. Learn how a dedicated team is digitally reconstructing Norman society to safeguard this rich history for future generations. With insights from interdisciplinary studies and personal stories, we celebrate the resilience of Sicilian culture and the scholarly pursuits that continue to bring its stories to light. Join us in exploring the intricate tapestry of Sicilian identity and its lasting influence across time and continents.   WEBSITE: https://www.normansicily.org/en/resources/learn/group_one/

Hey Wiretappers, listen to my short bonus episode. I'm looking for mob fans to read the first half of a memoir about my life, which is partly about being a cop and mostly about the Civella Spero War. Email me at ganglandwire@gmail.com and I'll send you a pdf to read. It's about 22,000 words. Once it's done, I'll send you a copy This week, we journey back to the early 1900s—a time when the first wave of Sicilian immigrants brought more than just dreams of opportunity to America. They also brought with them an age-old criminal code that would lay the foundation for the American Mafia as we know it. Our story begins with the Mustache Petes—those old-world mafiosi who preyed on their own immigrant communities through intimidation, extortion, and a cunning knack for organized crime. One of their earliest rackets? Counterfeiting.

Two Sicilian barbers built an empire of vice, transforming Galveston into the "Free State" where prohibition laws and moral restrictions held no power for decades.• Texas and national prohibition in the 1920s created a black market for liquor, gambling and prostitution• Galveston's position on the Gulf of Mexico made it ideal for smuggling and vice operations• Sicilian immigrants Rose and Sam Maceo rose from barbers to powerful underworld figures• The Hollywood Dinner Club (1926) and Balinese Room (1942) became world-renowned entertainment venues• The Maceos maintained order, invested in the community, and kept Galveston economically thriving during the Depression• The Texas Rangers finally ended the era in 1957 with a brilliant strategy—simply sitting in establishments every night for 2.5 yearsGalveston Unscripted What is Galveston Unscripted?Follow Galveston Unscripted on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! More history content on Visit Galveston!

There is no such thing as an easy victory in war but after triumph in Tunisia, the sweeping success of the Sicilian invasion, and with the Italian surrender, the Allies were confident that they would be in Rome before Christmas 1943. And yet it didn't happen. Hitler ordered his forces to dig in and fight for every yard, thus setting the stage for one of the grimmest and most attritional campaigns of the Second World War. James Holland tells the definitive account of this brutal battle in Cassino '44.

Gianni and Jeannie discusses a variety of topics including the heat of July, upcoming events where fans can interact with Gianni such as Resorts World Catskills and Fanboy Expo in Knoxville, and numerous anecdotes about Hollywood legends. Gianni shares stories about the Sinatra era, his relationship with Don Rickles, his role in The Godfather film, and amusing yet risky moments from his past. Fans' questions cover interactions with comedians in Las Vegas, Gianni's Sicilian roots, and more personal tales of working with notable figures. New Ventures such as Resorts World deal and upcoming book releases are also highlighted.

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Margaret Philbrick, author of the book House of Honor. Margaret is an award-winning novelist and an award-winning poet. She lives into her calling as a writer and life-long gardener to plant seeds in hearts. John Ruskin's view that the “greatest thing a human soul ever does in this world is to see something and tell what it saw in a plain way,” is a core motivation of her work in photography, poetry, painting, writing and music. Margaret writes across all genre and has essays in Christianity Today, Relevant, The Redbud Hyphen, and Patheos. Margaret is a founding member of the Redbud Writers Guild NFP and is the contributing editor of the Guild's collection of essays and poetry for women, Everbloom.  Margaret is a member of the Redbud Writers Guild, ACFW, Wedgewood Circle and the Door County Published Author Collective. You can find Margaret digging in the dirt or wandering in a forest and connect with her via her website.   In my book review, I stated House of Honor is a historical thriller set in Italy. Margaret touts the book as a Godfather meets The Da Vinci Code but with a redemptive twist. I tout it as a book I couldn't put down!   Orazio Bordoni is a son of a construction magnate - but he wants nothing more than to be an artist. So, he leaves home and follows on a similar path as Caravaggio - a 16th century artist very much admired by Orazio. Before long, Orazio is caught up in slimy Vatican politics, the Sicilian mafia, and a lover with a powerful political father.   What starts out as a "job" turns into a test - one where he must prove his loyalty to the mafia. Will Orazio lose his family? His lover? His friends? His art? His life? The tale twists and turns, often leaving the reader breathless.   Margaret does an amazing job helping the reader experience the underbelly of Italy while exposing us to the world of art - all while keeping us guessing as to what will happen next. If you like a good thriller, then you'll love House of Honor.   Subscribe to Online for Authors to learn about more great books! https://www.youtube.com/@onlineforauthors?sub_confirmation=1   Join the Novels N Latte Book Club community to discuss this and other books with like-minded readers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3576519880426290   You can follow Author Margaret Philbrick Website: https://margaretphilbrick.com/ IG: @margaretannphilbrick/ IG (poetry): @seasonedpoetess FB: @margaret.philbrick.9 TikTok: @seasonedpoetess   Purchase House of Honor on Amazon: Paperback: https://amzn.to/4kdj8Hh Ebook: https://amzn.to/43pelwO   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   Want to be a guest on Online for Authors? Send Teri M Brown a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/member/onlineforauthors   #margaretphilbrick #houseofhonor #historicalfiction #thriller #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to Unpacked, Five Questions, a new series where we go behind the scenes of one great travel story. In this episode, host Katherine LaGrave sits down with Afar contributing writer Lisa Abend, who recently traveled to Sicily to investigate the viral phenomenon of European countries selling homes for one euro. Based in Copenhagen, Lisa explores what really happens after the headlines fade—both for the buyers chasing their dreams and the Sicilian communities welcoming newcomers. She shares what it's like to be an outsider in a tight-knit village, the reality behind those too-good-to-be-true property deals, and why the distinctively Sicilian spirit still dominates despite an influx of foreign buyers. On this episode you'll learn: The real story behind Sicily's one-euro house program and what buyers actually get for their money How small Sicilian towns are responding to an influx of foreign buyers and what "welcoming" really looks like Why most one-euro house purchases take much longer and cost far more than buyers expect Don't miss these moments: [02:30] Lisa's first impressions of Sambuca di Sicilia and the feeling of being watched as an outsider [04:15] The elderly café customer who seemed hostile but just wanted to ask about his New Jersey cousins [06:45] Danny McCubbin's journey from Jamie Oliver collaborator to Mussomeli community member—and dream crusher [09:20] Why buying a one-euro house doesn't guarantee a residence permit or the right to drive [12:10] The difference between one-euro ruins and Lisa's dream 50,000-euro house with pizza oven potential Resources Read Lisa's complete Afar story about Sicily's one-euro houses. Follow Lisa Abend on Instagram for more European travel insights. Subscribe to Lisa's newsletter, the Unplugged Traveler, where she explores Europe without using the internet. Next Episode Preview Join Katherine in two weeks when she speaks with Peggy Orenstein, author and Afar contributing writer, who traveled to Busan, South Korea, and discovered a new love for the "second cities of the world." Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, ⁠Behind the Mic⁠, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, ⁠Travel Tales⁠, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. Unpacked by Afar is part of ⁠Airwave Media⁠'s podcast network. Please contact ⁠advertising@airwavemedia.com⁠ if you would like to advertise on our podcast.

When the world is heating up, there is no reason to leave red wine out of the equation. Renegade provides you with a premium example of an ancient grape steeped in Italian culture and quiet rebellion. One woman in particular returned to her home in Sicily and reinvigorated not only Frappato but other noteworthy varieties. Where others saw Frappato as a blending grape, she was one of the first people to recognize it can stand on its own and has gained a slight cult following. Beat the heat with us with a chilled red or your favorite beverage to quench your thirst. Join us to celebrate how wine belongs in all seasons. Support the showCONNECT WITH US: You can follow and message us on Instagram @joinblackthorn You can also reach out via email - gather@joinblackthorn.com If you want to help support the show and get extra content every week, sign up for the paid tier of our Patreon newsletter, The Vault. Finally, we're more than just a podcast! We are an online wine club, a secret wine society and more. Discover the world of Blackthorn at www.joinblackthorn.com Cheers and thanks for listening!

Chicago Way w/John Kass (06/30/25): On a HOT summer Sunday, John Kass & Jeff Carlin head out to the first annual Sicilian Summer Block Party in the Dunning neighborhood to break bread and enjoy some entertainment. Along the way, fans of John’s share stories about what the Chicago Way means to them. Plus, Kasso tells […]

632. Chip Lococo discusses his novel, The Devil's Jazz:
A Gripping Historical Thriller of Murder, Music, and Madness in 1918 New Orleans, about the infamous Axman of New Orleans. “They have never caught me and they never will... I have been, am, and will be the worst spirit that ever existed either in fact or the realm of fancy.” — The Axman       In the haunted heart of New Orleans, as World War I draws to a close, a sinister presence stalks the streets. A brutal serial killer—known only as the Axman—emerges from the shadows, targeting the city's Sicilian immigrant community with chilling precision. Inspired by true events, The Devil's Jazz resurrects one of America's most disturbing unsolved murder cases in a city steeped in music, mystery, and myth. Retired detective Giancarlo Rabito is pulled back into the darkness when the killings begin. The press fans hysteria. The public panics. And when the Axman sends a blood-chilling letter to the newspapers — promising death unless every home plays jazz on a chosen night — the city answers with a desperate and defiant flood of music.       Chip LoCoco was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he attended Jesuit High School and received his BA degree from Loyola University in 1990 with a concentration in History. He then went on to receive his JD degree from Loyola University Law School in 1993 and joined his father's firm, Many & LoCoco, after being sworn in as an attorney in October, 1993. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 221 years. Order your copy today! This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Julie Kane, poet laureate of Louisiana, 2011-2013. “Moonrise on the Cane River.” "The moon is a surprised white face over the darkening river Even before a pair of blue-grey wings swoops down Between the O of its mouth and the O of a surfacing fish, And the phone rings, and it's you in Baton Rouge Grilling a silver catfish and staring at the moon." This week in Louisiana history. June 28, 1861. First Civil War battle engagement for Louisiana Tigers, at Seneca Dam on Potomac River. This week in New Orleans history. Hurricane Audrey. June 28, 1957. On June 27, the Hurricane Audrey reached peak sustained winds of 145 mph, making it a major hurricane. Without decreasing windspeed, it made landfall between the mouth of the Sabine River and Cameron, Louisiana the following day. Audrey killed at least 416 people, the majority of which were in Cameron Parish. This week in Louisiana. Essence Fest July 3-6, 2025 Various venues New Orleans, LA     What began in 1995 as a one-time event to celebrate Essence Magazine's 25th anniversary has blossomed into an annual festival, which has welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests to the Crescent City each year over the past two decades. Often referred to as “a party with a purpose,” the Essence Festival of Culture promotes, celebrates, and explores health & wellness, spirituality, beauty & style, food, community & culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and much more within the African American community.     Attendees are invited to engage in panel discussions, shopping, meet-and-greets, activities, and of course, nonstop live music featuring some of the best in R&B, soul, funk, gospel, and hip-hop each and every Fourth of July weekend.     Essence Fest returns for its 31st year from July 3-6, 2025. Lineups will be announced closer to the event, but past headliners include Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Usher, and Birdman & Friends, who will also honor three decades of Cash Money Millionaires. Postcards from Louisiana. Phillip Manuel sings with Michael Pellera Trio play at Snug Harbor on Frenchmen St. in New Orleans.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

Send us a textIn this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Frank Ingrasciotta, the creator of 'Blood Type Ragu,' exploring themes of Italian heritage, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. Frank shares his family's journey from Sicily to America, the challenges they faced, and the cultural nuances that shaped his identity. The discussion delves into the importance of storytelling in preserving family history, the differences in food traditions, and the emotional impact of reconnecting with family in Sicily. Frank's experiences highlight the resilience of immigrant families and the rich tapestry of Italian-American culture.Frank is the son of Sicilian immigrants from Mazzara del Vallo, Sicily.His family came to America in 1949 after World War II.Frank's father was born in America but returned to Sicily as a child.His mother struggled with homesickness after moving to America.Frank visited Sicily at the age of seven, gaining insight into his mother's life.He reconnected with family in Sicily after years of separation.Frank's one-man show, 'Blood Type Ragu,' explores his family stories.ABOUT THE SHOWBlood Type: RAGU is a hilarious and heartfelt coming-of-age story. A one-man play exploring a first-generation immigrant child's delicate dance between searching for identity, embracing Sicilian roots, and understanding forgiveness. Writer/Performer Frank Ingrasciotta gives a tour-de-force portrayal of over 20 characters who live, love, and laugh, in this fast-paced journey that is not just a comedy, not just a drama — It's family — and we all have one! ABOUT FRANKFRANK INGRASCIOTTA (writer/performer) Acting: Original Off-Broadway production of Godspell, Valley of the Dolls, Three Postcards, What Would Nora Ephron Say?, Dinner at 8, Edgar Degas in The Girl in the Blue Armchair, and the Pharaoh in Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Lincoln Center. TV: Five years as Rene Buchanan's head maître d' on One Life to Live, other recurring roles on The Guiding Light, All My Children, ABC Afterschool Specials, and The Equalizer. Film: Featured roles in the award-winning SAG films Figs for Italo and Brooklyn in July directed by Bob Celli, presently touring the film festival circuit. Stream the Raguwww.bloodtyperagu.comTurnkey. The only thing you'll lift are your spirits.Instacart - Groceries delivered in as little as 1 hour.Free delivery on your first order over $35.Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showPurchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here or at Amazon.

There are many lessons we are supposed to know in life:  pick up after yourself, never bet against a Sicilian when death is on the line, and most importantly, don't invade Russia in the winter.  Known as one of the greatest military disasters in history, Napoleon's invasion of Russia is often cited as a key factor in the emperor's eventual defeat.  Although the campaign actually started in June, the brutal impact of General Winter led to the devastation of the French army and ultimately contributed to the downfall of one of the greatest generals in history.  Learn more about Napoleon's Invasion of Russia and the devastation of the French Army on this episode of Everything Everywhere Daily. ***5th Anniversary Celebration RSVP*** Sponsors Newspapers.com Get 20% off your subscription to Newspapers.com Mint Mobile Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at mintmobile.com/eed Quince Go to quince.com/daily for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! Stitch Fix Go to stitchfix.com/everywhere to have a stylist help you look your best Stash Go to get.stash.com/EVERYTHING to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures. Subscribe to the podcast!  https://everything-everywhere.com/everything-everywhere-daily-podcast/ -------------------------------- Executive Producer: Charles Daniel Associate Producers: Austin Oetken & Cameron Kieffer   Become a supporter on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/everythingeverywhere Update your podcast app at newpodcastapps.com Discord Server: https://discord.gg/UkRUJFh Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everythingeverywhere/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/everythingeverywheredaily Twitter: https://twitter.com/everywheretrip Website: https://everything-everywhere.com/  Disce aliquid novi cotidie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This was an incredibly fun episode to record with fellow a very proud Italian Australian, Perth's favourite real estate agent Justin Merendino!! We have a lot in common with Justin and hearing about his Italian heritage, being both Calabrese and Sicilian. Justin's passion for his culture is so strong and his regard for the language, including both dialects, is inspiring. We shared our thoughts of how important it is for ourselves and future generations to learn the traditions of their parents and Nonni so they can be passed down and carried on in the future. We also heard about Justin's personal story and how he started his successful career in real estate and how he incorporates his culture into his work. Justin's instagram:Justin (Giustino)Merendino (@justin_merendino_raywhite) • Instagram photos and videosTickets for La Dolce Vita:Buy La Dolce Vita - Etta D'Elia Quintet tickets, WA 2025 | MoshtixWHAT'S ON | Duke Of George

In this week's episode, I take a look at the frozen pizzas that I enjoyed in 2025, and give my recommendations for the best frozen pizzas. This coupon code will get you 25% off the ebooks in the Dragontiarna series at my Payhip store: WARDEN25 The coupon code is valid through July 14, 2025. So if you need a new ebook this summer, we've got you covered! TRANSCRIPT 00:00:00 Introduction and Writing Updates   Hello, everyone. Welcome to Episode 256 of The Pulp Writer Show. My name is Jonathan Moeller. Today is June 20th, 2025 and today we are looking at my favorite frozen pizzas from Winter and Spring 2025. Before we get to our main topic, we'll have Coupon of the Week, an update on my current writing progress, and then we will do Question of the Week this week.   First up, let's do Coupon of the Week. This week's coupon code will get you 25% off the ebooks in the Dragontiarna series at my Payhip store, and that coupon is WARDEN25. This coupon code is valid through July 14th, 2025. So if you need a new series of really long ebooks to read for this summer, we have got you covered and as always, the links to the store and the coupon code will be included in the show notes.   Now for an update on my current writing and audiobook projects. As I mentioned before, I want Summer 2025 to be my Super Summer of Finishing Things because I want to finish The Shield War, Stealth and Spells, and Ghost Armor series this summer before I start on new things. I'm pleased to report that I have reached a milestone of that. The rough draft of Shield of Power is done at 101,000 words. This will be the sixth and final book in the Shield War series. I am currently writing A Consort of Darkness, which will be a short story that newsletter subscribers will get a free copy of in ebook form when Shield of Power comes out. I am also 109,000 words into Stealth and Spells Online: Final Quest and hopefully that will come out very quickly after Shield The Power is out. I'm also 10,000 words into Ghost in the Siege, which will likewise be the sixth and final book in the Ghost Armor series.   In audiobook news, recording is still underway for Ghost in the Corruption, which will be narrated by Hollis McCarthy and Shield of Battle, which will be narrated by Brad Wills. Hopefully we will have some more updates on that soon and I don't think it'll be too much longer before both audiobooks are out and available.   00:02:02 Question of the Week   Now let's go to Question of the Week. Question of the Week is intended to inspire enjoyable discussions of interesting topics. This week's question: when was the last time you went to an actual movie theater to see a movie? No wrong answers, including “I don't go to movie theaters.”  As you can guess, we had a range of responses on this one.   Justin says: Last month we saw Monty Python and the Holy Grail (fifty year release) in the theater. Yes, we have the DVD.   David says: I guess Dune Two is the last time I went to a theater. For the price of going to the theater, I can wait and stream it later. If I don't like the price, I can even wait a few years. I'm not so quick to give them my money. Haven't gone to the theater yet in 2025. Nothing called out to me.   William says: Except for 2020-2021, I've been going to the movies frequently every year since the Hobbit movies first came out. It's not that my habits has changed, just that they started making the kind of movies I wanted to watch like Star Wars, Jurassic World, the Disney remakes, and so on. Before 2012, the last time I went was in 2006 for the third Pirates of the Caribbean movie. It probably helps that it's only two tickets each time and not four or five for a whole family.   Randy says: Top Gun: Maverick. It was a throwback to the days when movies were fun to watch. Everything doesn't have to have a deeper meaning and make us think. Just have an unlikely crew of misfits take out the bad guys. Bonnie says: Last one was Mary Poppins Returns with granddaughter in Spring 2019. I can't see spending the price for a one time deal.   Cheryl says: The last time I went to the cinema…when did American Beauty come out? That's how long ago it was and the movie was disappointing.   Jenny says: Thunderbolts! I wish movies weren't so pricey.   Elizabeth says: Last time I went to the movie theater was to see Jumanji 2 with my now husband as our first date because both of us are terrible at first date ideas.   I don't know- if Elizabeth's first date with her now husband was Jumanji 2, it seems like that was a very successful first date.   John says: War of the Rohirrim, December of last year.   A different John says: Dune Two and A Complete Unknown are the only two I've seen in the theater in the last two years. In both cases it was because A: the movie deserved to be experienced completely, and B: there was someone I wanted to share it with. Otherwise, modern tech in the home works just fine.   Michael says: Last movie I saw in an actual cinema was Avengers Infinity War, so that's going back a bit. I think the COVID lockdown just killed any desire to do so and haven't been back since.   Michael [A different Michael than the one listed above] says: It has been years.   For myself, the answer is quite simple. I went on May 31st to see Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning. The inspiration for this question was technological change. I only went to the theater twice in 2024, for Dune Part Two and The Fall Guy. In 2025, I've been to the theater twice so far, for Thunderbolts and Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning, but a long time ago when I was much younger and had far fewer demands in my time, I would usually go to the movies on Saturday afternoons if I saw something that looked at all interesting. I'd always go in the afternoons because afternoon matinees were cheaper and I usually preferred to spend Saturday night playing computer games anyway. Nowadays, like I said above, I only went twice in 2024 and twice in 2025 so far. I am not sure what changed. The obvious one is that I'm old enough to have enough to do week to week that giving up three hours on a Saturday afternoon can often be a problem. The other obvious answer is technological change in the form of streaming, which makes it a lot easier to see things at home and perhaps one's taste change as one gets older. For example, there is no way I would go to the theater to see the Minecraft movie, though I would probably watch it on streaming when it rolls around (and I did in fact watch it in streaming last week and thought it was pretty good. It'll be in my next Movie Roundup.) So that is it for Question of the Week.   00:05:52 Main Topic: Winter/Spring/Summer 2025 Frozen Pizza Roundup   Now onto our main topic this week, my Spring/Summer 2025 Frozen Pizza Roundup (though I suppose I've been working on this long enough that it should be the Winter/ Spring/Summer 2025 Frozen Pizza Roundup). I suppose it is a bit odd to talk about frozen pizza on a podcast ostensibly dedicated to indie publishing and indie writing, but I like frozen pizza and it's my podcast, so if I want to talk about frozen pizza, I'm going to talk about frozen pizza. Besides my previous pizza review roundup episode was pretty popular, so that's why I decided to do another one. Unlike a movie roundup, the pizza reviews will be in chronological order based on when I ate them. The grades are, as always, totally subjective and based on my own opinions. I'll also be rating the pizza by eating it hot and eating it cold, since cold pizza is a different experience than hot pizza. Cold pizza for lunch the next day is something to look forward to, especially during a busy day. I should also mention that I purchased each pizza myself with my own money. No one sent me any free stuff, so while my opinion may be subjective, it is nonetheless unbiased. Additionally, I exactly follow the preparation directions for each pizza since I wanted to avoid the phenomenon you sometimes see on recipe blogs where a commenter complains that a recipe didn't work and then admits that they took out the butter, cut the sugar in half, replaced the flour with corn starch, and substituted canola oil for frosting. So with those disclaimers, disclosures, and caveats out of the way, on to the pizzas.   The first one is Orv's Ultimate Rizer Three Meat Pizza, which I had on February 28th, 2025. Orv's is a pizza brand owned by Minnesota based pizza maker Bernatello's. In the last pizza roundup, I mistakenly said Bernatello's was based in Wisconsin (though they do in fact have numerous Wisconsin facilities) and Bernatello's also owns many different pizza brands I have mentioned the last roundup. I had never tried Orv's before, so I thought I would give it a try.   Eaten hot, the sausage, Canadian bacon, and pepperoni are quite good, as are the cheese and sauce. However, the crust really is quite bready and kind of overwhelmed the other tastes. This is a thick crust pizza and to be honest, I really prefer thin crust because it's generally less caloric and the crust has a greater chance to work in harmony with the other flavors and not overpower them.   Eaten cold, it's pretty much the same experience. This is definitely a pizza that would benefit from a bit of added oregano, garlic salt, or perhaps other spices. Overall, I do think I strongly prefer Bernatello's Brew Pub Lotzza Motzza pizza instead of Orv's, though I should mention that Orv's is in fact quite a bit cheaper. Overall Grade: C+   The next pizza is the Red Baron Four Meat Classic Crust Pizza, which I ate on March 7th, 2025. Red Baron is a frozen pizza brand that started in 1976 by the Schwan's Frozen Food Company of Minnesota. Currently, Schwan's is owned by a large Korean conglomerate. Whatever one might think of large corporate consolidation, the fact that the stylized World War I fighter pilot mascot of a Minnesota company is now owned by a Korean conglomerate is kind of hilarious in an absurdist sort of way. Anyway, the pizza!   Eaten hot, I liked the crust. It was a bit thicker than usual for thin crust pizza, but it was crisp and didn't get bready. The sauce was a bit sweeter than usual, but I still liked it. The various meats and the cheese were good as well. Eaten cold, it's still pretty good. The cheese and sauce set well and remained flavorful. Overall Grade: B+   Our next pizza is Good and Gather Pepperoni Pizza, which I had on March 14th, 2025. Store brand foods can be hit or miss, like if you go to a big box grocery store and they have their own store brand of essentials like coffee and cereal and bread and so forth. And as I said, those can be really hit or miss since it depends on the company that is actually supplying the food to the store. That said, I've had good results with Good and Gather, which is the store brand of Target, which is a major big box retailer in the United States. So I thought I'd give the Good and Gather Pepperoni Pizza a try. Eaten hot, I was pleasantly surprised. The crust was crisp, the cheese and sauce were good (if not outstanding), and the pepperoni was flavorful. A good workman like frozen pizza. Eaten cold, it still tastes quite good. An important detail is that this is a good deal cheaper than many of the more premium pizza brands I have mentioned in these pizza roundups. So I would say this is a good solid option for the budget minded consumer. Overall Grade: B     Next up we have Bellatoria's Ultra Thin Crust Meat Trio Pizza, which I ate on March the 21st, 2025. Bellatoria's is yet another brand of the Bernatello's Frozen Pizza Company, a frequent entry in these pizza roundups and it is a seems to be more of a premium brand compared to Orv's. It also has a less heavy load topping compared to Lotzza Motzza, which is another Bernatello's brand. Despite that, I quite like this one. Eaten hot, the crust was crisp and just a bit flaky in a good way and the cheese, sauce, and meat toppings were all good. Sometimes on a pizza you can't taste the crust. Other times you taste it too much, like with thick crust pizza, but I think this was a good crust that complemented the toppings, which were all flavorful. Eaten cold, it fares well. The thin crust doesn't get soggy and the meat and cheese remain flavorful. A very good pizza. I prefer a thin crust to a thick crust, but this was an excellent thin crust. Overall Grade: A   Our next pizza is the Totino's Party Pizza Triple Meat, which I ate March 26th, 2025. Totino's was famously one of the first companies to make frozen pizza and it was later acquired by General Mills. These days, Totino's is mostly known for its pizza rolls, but they still put out small individual pizzas and for the sake of historical continuity, I decided to give it a try. It was okay. It definitely tasted like pizza, but it didn't compare to the stronger ones I've tried like Heggie's or Pothole Pizza. You do need to cook it for a long time for the crust to be adequately crispy and not soggy. I didn't bother to try it cold since I didn't think it would be improved, and this is definitely a pizza where you might want to add some oregano or garlic salt. Its biggest advantage is that it's quite inexpensive, a cheap meal, but don't expect too much. Overall Grade: C+     Next up is Authentic Motor City Pizza Company Three Meat Pizza, which I had on March 28th, 2025. Authentic Motor Pizza Company is owned by the Ilitch billionaire family of Michigan who are the original founders of Little Caesar's Pizza. This pizza is a Detroit style pizza, which is essentially a square pizza cooked in a square pan with a thick crust and lots of cheese. The square shape comes from the fact that Detroit style pizza was originally cooked in a car oil drip pan since the commercially available pans at the time weren't suitable for the pizza. There is some dispute about what actually happened, but it seems Detroit style pizza started at a restaurant called Buddy's Rendezvous in the 1940s, which later became the local Michigan pizza chain Buddy's Pizza. I have to admit, I was originally only vaguely aware of Detroit style pizza, but in 2019 I went to the Detroit area for a funeral and had dinner at Buddy's Pizza, which was amazing. (There was also a guy getting arrested in the parking lot at the time, but thankfully that did not affect the dining experience.) If your travels ever take you to the Detroit area, you should definitely try Buddy's Pizza. Anyway, so after all this, when I happened across a Detroit style frozen pizza, I decided I needed to give it a try. Eaten hot, it is quite good. As I've said before, I'm generally not a fan of thick crust pizza, which this is, but it's a good thick crust, crispy on the edges and bottom without being bready or chewy. The toppings are all excellent, which is helped by the fact that the sauce is good and has a good garlic flavor to it. I was curious how it would hold up when eaten cold and I actually liked it a bit better than when it was hot. The cheese sets well and then everything holds together and so it's a very substantial, very tasty cold pizza. This is good pizza, though that said, I still prefer a thinner crust because the Detroit style of pizza is delicious, but dang, is it a heavy meal. Overall grade: A   Next up is Pothole Kitchen Sink Pizza, which I ate on April 4, 2025, and this is another pizza from the Midwestern convenience store chain Kwik Trip and features pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and red and green peppers. I really like this one, like the other Pothole varieties I've tried. It's quite good: good crust, good cheese, good sauce, and very flavorful toppings. This has a slight advantage over my other favorite version, the Pothole Meat Sweats Pizza, since the lesser amount of meat means it isn't as greasy. Eaten cold, it is likewise quite good. I think this ties with the Meat Sweats Pothole Pizza. They both represent excellent versions of two different pizza experiences. If you don't want mushrooms and vegetables on your pizza, get the Meat Sweats, but if you do want vegetables, go for the Kitchen Sink. Overall grade: A+     Next up is Heggie's Six Pack Pizza, which I tried on April 11th, 2025. This is another pizza from Minnesota company Heggie's, which had one of my favorite pizzas of the last roundup. Heggie's Six Pack Pizza comes with sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, regular bacon, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Let's just say if you're eating this, you probably don't have a six pack.   Anyway. Eaten hot, it was quite good. I like the thin crust and all the meat was good. I would say the biggest weakness is that you can mostly taste the cheese and the Canadian bacon since they kind of drown out all the other flavors. Eaten cold, I would say it tastes better. You can taste all the individual toppings. The cheese, sauce, and crust are pleasant when cold as well. This was a good pizza, but I do like the pepperoni only version better since I think the taste is superior. Overall grade: A-   Next up is the Tombstone Tavern Style Meat Crumble Pizza, which I had on May 2nd, 2025, and this is a more upgraded version of the basic model Tombstone pizza with thinner crust, slightly different cheese, and a mixture of pepperoni and crumbled pork sausage. Honestly, it tasted about the same as the standard model Tombstone. The crust and meat were slightly better, but I thought the sauce was rather watery. Eaten cold, it was better since the watery flavor of the sauce wasn't as strong. That said, I do think the standard model Tombstone pizza is a better pizza. Overall grade: B-     Then we had a bit of a gap here because I had basically tried most of the pizza brands that I actually wanted to try for this review. There are some more lower cost brands out there, but I figured they'd be mostly similar to the cheaper ones I already tried.   Then I came across the final pizza for this review roundup, Screamin' Sicilian Mountain of Meat, which I had on June 6th, 2025. This is another pizza from the Screamin' Sicilian line, which is part of the Palermo Pizza Company of Wisconsin. I tried an all pepperoni version for the last pizza roundup and thought it was pretty good. It got an A-. I decided to try the Mountain of Meat, which has pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon, and has a stone fired crust. I liked it better than the all pepperoni version. The different meats blend together well, and I think this version of the crust is quite a bit better. It's a little bit thicker, but still quite crispy. Eaten cold, it likewise holds up quite well. The spiciness of the meat remains flavorful even when cold and the cheese holds it all together. Overall grade: A   So to sum up after two pizza review posts, here are my favorites.   Overall favorites: Pothole Meat Sweats and Pothole Kitchen Sink. Excellent strong runners-up: Heggie's Pepperoni Pizza, Lotzza Motzza, Bellatoria, and the Screamin' Sicilian Mountain of Meat. The downside of all these choices is that they tend to be expensive, usually $10 US or above. So with that in mind, here are best my choices for the best budget options, which would be Tombstone Pepperoni & Sausage and Target's Good & Gather Pepperoni.   Also, one advantage of frozen pizza is that you can add spices to flavor the taste. I found that frozen pizza in general frequently benefits from the addition of oregano or perhaps a dusting of garlic powder. So if you are looking for some frozen pizza, hopefully this will help you find one.   So that is it for this week. Next week I promise we will go back to writing and publishing topics instead of pizza. Thanks for listening to The Pulp Writer Show. I hope you found the show useful. A reminder that you can listen to all the back episodes on https://thepulpwritershow.com. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcasting platform of choice. Stay safe and stay healthy and see you all next week.

Comedians Mark Bailey and Mike Miller talk funny on spam mail we get suggesting we add humor to the podcast, AI thoughtless sales spam we receive, Mark's Sicilian brain vs. Mark's Jewish brain, rude Chinese tourists, rude buffet manners by tourists in Japan, our buddy in Osaka comedy, how Mark Normand is Carlinesque, and rightwing youtube commercials in Japan. Mark understands Japanese old ornery men at last. Brought to you by Nagoyaradio.comNagoyacomedy.com, and stand up comic Mark Bailey.

In this episode I transformed my Imperfect Food delivery ingredients into three zero to minimal food packaging waste dishes. I made an applesauce infused with turmeric, a traditional Sicilian sardines & pasta, and a simple but astoundingly delicious fusilli with zucchini.• One oversized apple become an absolutely delicious homemade applesauce with turmeric for color, flavor and of course wonderful nutritious and healing properties. • Traditional Sicilian pasta recipe features sardines, fennel, golden raisins, and a savory garnish of toasted breadcrumbs & fresh fennel frons. • The simple but Dlicious zucchini fusilli dish uses blanched zucchini planks, garlic, and lemon juice topped with the toasted breadcrumbs adds a perfect texture to both pasta dishes.• All dishes use minimal packaging and reduce food waste.  I like this format. Please let me know your thoughts.  Should you need any guidance along the way, I'm reachable any number of ways. Please share with friends if you enjoy this podcast! Find me at d@recipes4survival, @donnargoldman1 on Instagram, and my website, recipes4survival.com.MINDFUL MEALS & SUSTAINABLE LIVING - The Art of Living an Elevated Lifestyle

 Oh, wow.  When I read the synopsis for House of Honor by Margaret Ann Philbrick, I knew this was going to be a fabulous book.  Forget all the endorsements and starred reviews, listen in to hear just how awesome this book is!   note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. When Margaret described the story within House of Honor, I not only learned a lot of art history, but I got a taste of Italy (sadly, without pasta and gelato... sniff). I can't wait to see what she coes up with next.  House of Honor by Margaret Ann Philbrick Two Italian sons, one woman, linked by a masterpiece painting, are put to a test of loyalty and honor. At the heart of this gripping tale is Orazio Bordoni, the wayward son of a construction magnate, living a reckless life like that of his artistic hero Caravaggio. He finds himself befriended by Nicolo Giotto, the devoted son of a powerful Sicilian mafia clan, who wants to uphold the honor of his family. As the dark underbelly of the art world and the Vatican expose their true character, Orazio finds himself in a world where his loyalty is tested, honor is at stake, and the boundaries between life, love, and art blur. He and Nicolo discover just how far they're willing to push those boundaries, even if it means sacrificing everything. House of Honor is a pivotal story that weaves the threads of history, the ruthless allure of the mafia, the enigmatic power of the Vatican, and the timeless brilliance of Caravaggio. Learn more about Margaret on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

This episode is sponsored by House of Macadamias -- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get our specially curated box that also comes with the free snack bars and 15% offer for CURVA MUNDIAL listeners! ⁠⁠Also, be sure to visit our merch store!⁠⁠We head to Sicily in this episode of CURVA MUNDIAL as Partinico Rose frontman Vinny Cannizzo take us around the Palermo region as he talks his band, influences, Sicilian calcio, and love of AS Roma.

From the dark underbelly of Sicily's Mafia to the heart-pounding streets of America, Eva Santella's tale is one of betrayal, vengeance, and an unquenchable thirst for justice.Once a fearless Mafia boss, Eva's world shattered when rival Sicilian families betrayed her. With a bounty on her head, she fled to America, seeking refuge in shadows and anonymity. But even there, they found her. They destroyed her life, her family, everything she cherished.But they made one mistake: they didn't finish the job.Rising as the indomitable Queen of Spades, Eva is fueled by a singular obsession—making them pay. Her journey takes her through the intricate maze of the criminal underworld, where every turn holds danger, secrets, and a relentless pursuit of retribution. It's a path she walks with a fierce determination, for she knows there is no turning back.Kristi Belcamino is a multiple award-nominated American author and a USA bestselling writer of mystery, suspense, thriller, and crime fiction novels. She has written several widely popular book series, including the Gabriella Giovanni Mystery series, the Tommy St James Mysteries, and the Gia Santella book series. Her books have helped her receive nominations for prestigious awards like Barry, Agatha, Macavity, and Anthony Award. Belcamino's stories typically feature fierce, independent, and strong female characters, who fight unspeakable evils in their attempt to seek justice for the ones unable to seek themselves. Prior to becoming a writer of crime fiction novels, she used to work as a crime reporter for different newspaper agencies in California. Her dedication towards her reporting work had fetched her a number of awards. Belcamino is said to have flown in a FA-18 plane over the Big Sur, attended barbecues, and raced Dodge Vipers in her line of work.Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brandyschillace.com/peculiar/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://eepurl.com/ixJJ2Y⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/PeculiarBookClub/membership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PeculiarBookClub/streams⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@peculiarbookclub.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/peculiarbooksclub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@thepeculiarbookclub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mimi Tallo grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, a northeastern, blue-collar town. She was surrounded by dysfunction, abuse, and addiction. She was also surrounded by relatives she didn't find out were relatives until she dove into her genealogy. Mimi talks about her upbringing and her father's life-long belief that he was Sicilian and how it shaped him and their family. He was, at it turns out, Irish. Mimi is a speaker, author, and podcast maven. Access to her books and story are at https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mimi-Tallo/author/B09FJ4K65Y?ref=ap_rdr&ccs_id=1efbf676-940e-40e8-bfea-5065d5941dc7, and her podcast can be found at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-heard-empower-yourself/id1680364703. Her previous podcast about her memoir, "Raised by Wolves Trapped by Demons," can be heard at https://ataapodcast.com/raised-by-wolves-trapped-by-demons/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host or Westwords Consulting. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!

Today, we take a book off of our very much ignored TBR, and that book happens to be Kingdom Of The Wicked by Kerri Maniscalco. Join us as we talk about demons, sisters, and a fashion-forward demon.  About The Novel: Emilia and her twin sister Vittoria are streghe - witches who live secretly among humans, avoiding notice and persecution. One night, Vittoria misses dinner service at the family's renowned Sicilian restaurant. Emilia soon finds the body of her beloved twin...desecrated beyond belief. Devastated, Emilia sets out to find her sister's killer and to seek vengeance at any cost—even if it means using dark magic that's been long forbidden. Then Emilia meets Wrath, one of the Wicked—princes of Hell she has been warned against in tales since she was a child. Wrath claims to be on Emilia's side, tasked by his master with solving the series of women's murders on the island. But when it comes to the Wicked, nothing is as it seems... Want to check us out, then click here!

This week on #OnTheScentPodcast, Nicola returns from her travels, bringing a suitcase of scented stories and soul-soothing rituals. To calm flight nerves, she reached for the tranquil embrace of @neomwellbeing Calming Pen, the protective cocoon of @subtleenergies Aura Protection Body Mist, and the bohemian spirit of @thameenfragrance Bohemian Infusion, woven through her scarf like a fragrant talisman.The hotel's air shimmered with the signature scent of @annesemoninfrance - luxurious, luminous, and lingering in every soap and lotion, a memory Nicola carried home & treasures.Back in London, she delighted in the luminous @diptyque & @susannekaufmann_ scented lip oil collaboration, and the witty, fresh @akt_ldn Hay Fever deodorant balm, inspired by Noël Coward's iconic play.While Nicola wafted abroad, Suzy uncovered new treasures here: she was enchanted by @4160tuesdays Vianne's Confession, a story in scent: sea salt and cacao, incense and tomato leaf, rose and rain-dappled cobblestones; crafted with Joanne Harris for her latest novel.Both Suzy & Nicola swooned in the stunning @cologneandcotton's Marylebone boutique, celebrating the relaunch of their own fragrances (both fell for Arbela: a sparkling, sunlit blend of petitgrain, sweet orange, and lemon.)Suzy's fragrant adventures continued at a @nissaba.fragrances Masterclass @jovoymayfair with Sébastien Tissot. Her faves: Provence sang of lavender fields and aromatic herbs, Berbera smouldered with ancient incense and myrrh, while Grande Ile enveloped her in a spiced vanilla embrace, rich with Madagascar's precious ingredients.Finally, Suzy donned green to match the bottle for the launch of @ormondejayne Vetiveria: a dreamy Sicilian lime and Timur pepper fizz atop a heart of snowbell and lavender, rooted in vetiver, moss, and creamy tonka.

In this episode, Peter and Mike take a spirited tour through the diverse regions of Italy, diving into how language, cuisine, and cultural stereotypes shift as you travel from north to south. From Venetian elegance to Sicilian chaos, they unpack the friendly (and not-so-friendly) rivalries that still shape Italian identity today.The guys also open up the Comments Cache to hear from listeners, react to some spicy takes, and, as always, Mike has a story—or two. This time he shares a tale from childhood involving a sneaky move gone wrong and getting caught red-handed.It's part history lesson, part roast session, and fully Italian American.Mangia, listen, and enjoy!

Leah Scurto and Chris Puppione. Chris Puppione from Puppione Family Wines joins Steve Jaxon and Dan Berger on California Wine Country today. Leah Scurto from PizzaLeah is also here, and she brought several different pizzas. We will try some pizza and wine pairings. Chris Puppione starts telling the story of the family winery. He had worked in wine and thought of bottles of wine as time capsules. So when his first daughter was born, he made a wine for her to celebrate her birth. A neighbor in the Russian River area sold him one ton of Syrah grapes. He even told a tall tale to his wife to get her to come out and prune the first grapes for their wine. When the second daughter was born he made another wine and they kept on making wine that connects to their family history. This wine they are tasting today is a 2017. California Wine Country is brought to you by Rodney Strong Vineyards and Davis Bynum Wines. Dan Berger discovered Puppione Family Wines when he was a judge in a blended red category at a recent competition. Immediately he liked it so much he found out who made it. It was a really low alcohol wine, which Dan likes. About 10 days later, Dan found the winery and met Chris for the first time. Chris Puppione mentions his day job, he oversees US wineries for Coravin, a company that makes wine equipment. Pizza and Wine Pairings Festa Bianco + Sicilian We're going to do pizza and wine pairing today. Leah Scurto has brought four different pizzas, each one with very different flavors. We will pair them with four Puppione wines. The first pairing is a bottle of Festa Bianco, a white wine, with the Sicilian pizza. Festa was Chris' grandmother's maiden name. The Sicilian pizza has Castelvetrano olives, Italian salame, chili flakes, ricotta and a little red onion. The wine is a Friulano, which is a northern Italian white wine often mistaken for Sauvignon Blanc. It goes well with green vegetables and salads. It come from the Friuli region of Italy, which is the north-eastern part of the country, next to Slovenia. Festa Rosso + Nico The next pizza is the Nico, which is an award winner. It has confit garlic, fresh rosemary, black pepper and Italian sausage. This is paired with Festa Rossa, which is a blend of Syrah, Cabernet and Friulano. It is again, pretty low alcohol. PizzaLeah's Cold Fermentation Dough Dan calls PizzaLeah's pizza the most classic pizza in Sonoma County. A lot of factors make PizzaLeah's pizza special. Importantly, the dough is made by a slow, cold fermentation process. She uses local flour from Central Milling. She makes dough fresh daily. Only after two or three days of proofing in cold storage does it become pizza. Extended fermentation makes bread more digestible. It also gives the dough the right texture. Some deep dish pizzas are not really even pizza, they are more like cake. For comparison, it's almost more like a casserole. PizzaLeah does have two Detroit-style pan pizzas. The crust comes out looking like a brick but light as a feather when you eat it. Juventus + Spade Dan appreciates Chris Pappapietro's wine for the abundant fruit flavors. To make their Friulano, he had to go up into the hills near Tahoe, to a vineyard called Snow's Crossing. It's an alpine wilderness. They foot stomp all of their fruit, just like his grandfather did. His kids get into the bins and stomp fruit. There are pictures of that on their site. Especially, they left the Friulano on the skins in order to get more flavors from it. Next up is the Juventus wine, named after the goddess of youth and rejuvenation (not the soccer team). Instead, he wanted to make a red wine that would invigorate people instead of bringing heaviness. He made it in stainless steel which helps maintain the fruit flavors. An American Pizza, An Italian Award Syrah + Detroit Pepperoni The Spade pizza won an award in the American category in a competition in Napoli. The next wine is their Intero Syrah.

Was it Shawn Michaels' infamous superkick through the barbershop window? Or generations of Sicilian family wisdom that taught Aaron the true meaning of betrayal? In this nostalgic tale, Aaron explores childhood trust, sixth-grade backstabbing, and how wrestling lore and real life collided in a lesson he never forgot. * If you like 7MS, you'll love Aaron's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠7MS Presents: Live and Unscripted⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. A live, audio-first show inspired by classic late-night radio — it features raw reflections, spontaneous storytelling, and unexpected conversations with guests and a live chat with YOU (the listener). Subscribe to⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Aaron's YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and tune in every Monday! *Follow Aaron on... ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IG Threads ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Story created & performed by: Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Additional Vocals: Cori Calafato  Resident Artist: Pete Whitehead  Original Music: thomas j. duke Content & Editorial Assistant: Brooks Borden Content Associate: Isaac Gehring

Lionel wraps up the show talking about Iron Eyes Cody, a Sicilian who always played native American characters, soul music, the origins of rap and how Lionel got into the radio game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On The Other Side of Midnight, Lionel talks about his Wi-Fi issues and asks about technology we don't use much anymore like carbon copies and the mimeograph. Lionel later talks about the archaic ways people used to find out the weather and time, funny stories about Gilligan's Island and its cast and talk with callers who have all sorts of celebrity encounter anecdotes. Lionel starts the third hour discussing classic TV shows like Gilligan's Island, Hogan's Heroes and Bonanza. He also talks about Frank Sinatra's weirder tunes, the Naked Cowboy and much more. Lionel wraps up the show talking about Iron Eyes Cody, a Sicilian who always played native American characters, soul music and the origins of rap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#missionimpossible #tomcruise #moviereview Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to listen to two long-time Mission Impossible fan boys review the final two-part cruciform key that is Dead Reckoning and The Final Reckoning. Can Tom Cruise sprint his way to a successful end of his stunt-filled franchise? Tune in before this podcast self destructs in 3...2...1... *SPOILER WARNING* Cocktail: The Final Reckoning | Tito's Vodka, frozen dragonfruit lemonade (ice spheres), Sicilian blood orange soda, lime soda water | Pour over tall glass full of ice 0:00 Intro 4:02 Dead Reckoning Catch Up and Review 34:36 The Final Reckoning Review 2:10:03 Scores 2:14:35 Sherry's Girlfriend Review 2:16:10 The Movie Experience

The man accused of firebombing a pro-Jewish rally in Colorado has told investigators his motive and why he would do it again. Plus, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described a deadly attack in Sumy as a “brutal strike.” Additionally, Mount Etna has once again illuminated the Sicilian sky. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

"Cu campa sceccu, ‘um po moriri cavadsu." MEANING: of “Who lives a donkey, can't die a horse is very similar to the old saying “old dogs can't learn new tricks” or you can't change the nature of who you are. Mom you you say to me: “A tiger doesn't change his stripes” and “you can't fix a cracked vas”. Let's get started!Please SUBSCRIBE!FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: www.StevenGarofalo.ComBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/reason-for-truth--2774396/support.

The man accused of firebombing a pro-Jewish rally in Colorado has told investigators his motive and why he would do it again. Plus, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described a deadly attack in Sumy as a “brutal strike.” Additionally, Mount Etna has once again illuminated the Sicilian sky. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

What makes a truly extraordinary pizza? It's a question that Pittsburgh pizza masters Patrick Elston of Gus Franco's and Pete Tolman of Ironborn Pizza have spent years perfecting—crafting distinct styles that have earned them regional championships and devoted followings.(00:52) Patrick's journey began with a mobile wood-fired pizza trailer in 2018, eventually establishing Gus Franco's brick-and-mortar location in Lower Burrell. His "American baker style" pizza represents a careful evolution from Neapolitan traditions, with meticulous attention to dough fermentation and bread-making techniques. The result? A perfectly crispy yet light crust that recently earned him recognition as the Northeast Region champion for traditional pizza at the International Pizza Expo.(22:59) Meanwhile, Pete Tolman transformed a chance encounter with Detroit-style pizza during a Colorado ski trip into Ironborn Pizza, now thriving with locations in Millvale and the Strip District since 2017. His distinctive inch-plus-high crust with a lacy cheddar cheese edge has gathered its own accolades, including multiple Northeast regional championships. Beyond pizza, Ironborn's Strip District location showcases handmade pasta, fresh meatballs, and a full bar experience.What truly sets these pizza makers apart is their dedication to craft. Patrick describes the intense relationship with his wood-fired oven—moving pizzas through five different "spots" during busy service, constantly managing heat, and treating each pie as an artistic creation. Pete reveals the science behind his dough, which rises higher than traditional Detroit-style, creating Ironborn's signature airy texture. Both prioritize quality ingredients, including non-bromated flours and proper fermentation, challenging the notion that pizza is merely "junk food."(32:27) Their friendship exemplifies Pittsburgh's collaborative food scene—they attend pizza competitions together, celebrate each other's successes, and even share monthly dinners with their families. Their approach to business growth remains deliberately measured, with Patrick slowly introducing Sicilian pizzas and Pete focusing on strengthening operations at his existing locations.Whether you're craving Patrick's "Hot Dad" pizza with sopressata and hot honey or Pete's white pie with garlic cream and roasted tomatoes, these pizza masters prove that Pittsburgh's pizza scene has evolved into something truly special. Visit them soon to taste what championship-level dedication to pizza craft really means.Support the showLiked the episode? We'd love a coffee!

Every now and then, you have to deep dive an amazing movie to celebrate it. Today, Secret Movie Club founder.programmer Craig Hammill sings the praises of journalist turned moviemaker Francesco Rosi's 1962 Italian masterpiece Salvatore Giuliano. It tells the story of famed Sicilian outlaw Giuliano not from his POV but from the POV's of everyone around him-townspeople, police, the Italian government. Shot by master cinematographer Gianni di Venanzo (Fellini's 8 1/2), Giuliano is a cubist Citizen Kane, using film form to tell a political story. Filmmaker Rosi makes a damning movie about political power without being simplistic. Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Spielberg have all been deeply influenced by this must-see world classic. 

In this raw and profoundly moving episode of The Surviving Siblings Podcast, host Maya Roffler sits down with Jen, a bereaved sibling who lost her brother Teddy to suicide in 2017. Jen and Teddy shared an incredibly close bond, growing up as part of a large Sicilian family just outside of Boston. But their story begins even earlier—Teddy was a micro-preemie twin who survived against all odds, unknowingly carrying deep grief for his twin, Joseph, who died shortly after birth. Jen opens up about the fierce sibling connection they shared, their upbringing in a culture that didn't talk about emotions, and the invisible scars Teddy carried after a childhood marked by severe bullying, trauma, and being misunderstood. Despite his vibrant, goofy, and deeply caring personality, Teddy struggled silently with mental health throughout his life. This episode explores the reality of surviving sibling suicide, the hidden pain many carry, and the complex journey of grief, guilt, and healing. Jen shares how she only began to process her loss years later during the pandemic and how therapy has helped her reframe her survivor's guilt and begin to find peace. She also reflects on the final moments, the call that changed everything, and the weight of not getting to say goodbye. If you've ever felt the heartbreak of suicide loss, struggled with survivor's guilt, or longed for healing in a family that doesn't talk about grief—Jen's story will show you that you are not alone, and your voice matters. In This Episode: (00:01:09) – Growing Up Sicilian Jen describes her “free-range childhood” and the powerful, chaotic closeness of growing up in a big Sicilian family, where cousins felt like siblings. (00:02:31) – Teddy's Early Arrival & Twin Loss Teddy was born four months premature in 1975. His twin, Joseph, passed away shortly after birth—a fact Jen discovered years later on her own. (00:06:00) – Protector & Big Sister From defending Teddy against bullies to enduring the silence of their home life, Jen shares what it meant to be the older sister in a family that didn't talk about pain. (00:12:00) – School, Stereotypes & Sibling Comparisons Jen reflects on how academic pressure, comparison, and cultural expectations shaped both her and Teddy in very different ways. (00:15:22) – Therapy & Rewriting the Narrative A family photo once filled with shame becomes a moment of healing thanks to therapy—Jen discusses the power of reframing grief and guilt. (00:19:00) – Discovering Teddy's Twinhood Jen recalls the moment she discovered Teddy was a surviving twin and the emotional weight of finding a note he once wrote to God, asking if his brother was safe in heaven. (00:22:00) – 2017: The Year Everything Changed After losing his beloved grandmother and a close friend, Teddy's grief deepened. Jen shares how she never saw the signs of his declining mental health. (00:26:00) – A Life of Trauma and Suppression From childhood bullying to a near-institutionalization as a teen, Jen uncovers the deep traumas Teddy endured—and how their family culture of silence kept him from healing. (00:30:00) – Teddy's First Suicide Attempt In 2003, Teddy survived a suicide attempt on Boston's Tobin Bridge. Jen recounts the hospital call that changed everything—and how the stigma around mental health silenced the conversation for years. (00:32:00) – Saying Goodbye Was Not Easy Jen discusses the complicated decisions her family made after Teddy's death, the tension surrounding his service, and the 400 people who came to say goodbye. (00:35:00) – The Call That Changed Everything Jen shares the moment she learned of Teddy's death—and how her family's avoidance of grief left her in prolonged shock for nearly three years. (00:42:00) – Grief Bubble & Delayed Healing Without the space to grieve immediately, Jen's own grief journey was stunted. She talks about what it means to be “strong for the family” and the emotional cost of silence. (00:44:00) – The Pandemic Awakening It wasn't until the COVID-19 pandemic that Jen was forced to sit with her thoughts—and finally begin to unpack her trauma and start to heal. This episode is sponsored by The Surviving Siblings.  If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, help is available. Please reach out to a mental health professional or call your local crisis line. You are never alone. Connect with Jen:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jen.hoye Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen.and.pen/ Website: https://www.jenniferhoye.com/miles   Connect with Maya: Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/survivingsiblingspodcast/ Maya's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayaroffler/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@survivingsiblingspodcast Twitter: https://x.com/survivingsibpod Website: thesurvivingsiblings.com Facebook Group: The Surviving Siblings Podcast YouTube: The Surviving Siblings Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheSurvivingSiblingsPodcast

Happy New Moon in Gemini! The Archetypal Tarot Podcast welcomes guest Laura Carbone, a Berlin-based musician, psychic medium, tarot reader and sound healer with Sicilian-German roots. In this soulful and illuminating conversation, Laura and Cyndera dive deep into the emotional landscapes we all carry—grief, repression, and the sacred work of reclaiming the voice. With a sampling of Laura's healing sound work, this podcast explores the power of embodiment, the archetype of the Wounded Healer, and what it means to give your gifts consciously to the world. There's tenderness, connection, and a magical thread that even links the conversation back to Cyndera's home town of Joshua Tree—a place of spirit and renewal (it's also the location that the host recorded this episode)! Prompted by Cyndera to share her story, Laura speaks of her journey through music - from singing in her parents' garden to punk rock stages across Europe, and ultimately into the sacred realm of sound healing and intuitive voice work. She recounts the transformative power of rage expressed through punk, the healing magic of crystal bowls, and her mystical connection to animals, tarot, the womb space, and ancestral memory. Through Laura's story, we are invited to meet our own voice as a sacred instrument of healing, to confront inherited silence, and to gift our truth back to the world—consciously and courageously. In this episode: ✨ The connection between the throat and womb as partner organs of expression and intuition ✨ Laura's rediscovery of mediumship and sacred use of divination rooted in her Sicilian lineage ✨ How sound became a healing modality during the stillness of the pandemic ✨ From across the world, both Laura and Cyndera synchronistically connect around experiences at the Integratron ✨ The shame women inherit through history—and how vocal expression becomes liberation Whether you're on your own healing journey or simply curious about the voice as a portal to transformation, this episode offers inspiration, presence, and a sense of deep listening. You can connect with Laura through her website for information on her tarot card readings, workshops, vocal mentoring and more. For a commercial-free experience and access to the video, become a subscriber on Substack: https://archetypalstories.substack.com/    

Wine Director and Sommelier Melissa Hemingway brings her passionate expertise to this warm, insightful conversation about the evolving world of wine at Bonita Bay Club. After nearly seven years curating exceptional wine experiences, Melissa reveals how member preferences and global travel trends shape the club's diverse wine program.The spotlight shines on Sicily – Italy's largest wine-producing region – as Melissa's top recommendation for an underappreciated wine destination. Her enthusiasm for Sicilian wines, particularly the special Cerasula di Vittoria (Sicily's only DOCG), reveals her commitment to helping members discover hidden gems that deliver exceptional quality without breaking the bank. For those eager to explore, she recommends readily available producers Planeta and Dona Fugata.Perhaps most surprising is Melissa's revelation about the explosive growth of non-alcoholic wines. What began as ordering a single case per season has evolved into maintaining six different varieties that consistently sell out. This trend has become so significant that non-alcoholic options will soon have their own dedicated section on the Club's wine list.Melissa dismantles wine intimidation by encouraging authentic preferences and challenging the assumption that price equals quality. She points out that heavily marketed wines often allocate substantial funds to advertising rather than improving what's in the bottle, while championing small family producers who invest everything into creating exceptional wines without massive marketing campaigns.The Club's wine list itself reflects Melissa's collaborative philosophy, with 65% of selections coming directly from member suggestions. Her Thirsty Thursday events continue year-round, offering informal education opportunities that become particularly intimate and conversational during summer months.Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just beginning your wine journey, Melissa's approach invites everyone to explore with confidence. Join us for Thirsty Thursday at 5:00 PM throughout the summer and discover your next favorite bottle with expert guidance from someone who believes wine should delight, not intimidate.

Sicily has been making wine for centuries, historically for local consumption or for selling to other wine regions in bulk to enhance their wines. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, “modern” Sicilian wine production evolved, creating terroir-driven wines with elegance and finesse that the world has embraced. The Connected Table Hosts Melanie Young and David Ransom discuss the wines of Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG, Vittoria DOC and Noto DOC, regions visited during Sicilia en Primeur 2025.The Connected Table is broadcast live Wednesdays at 2PM ET and Music on W4CY Radio (www.w4cy.com) part of Talk 4 Radio (www.talk4radio.com) on the Talk 4 Media Network (www.talk4media.com).  The Connected Table Podcast is also available on Talk 4 Media (www.talk4media.com), Talk 4 Podcasting (www.talk4podcasting.com), iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, Audible, and over 100 other podcast outlets.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-connected-table-live--1277037/support.

After 2 months, 8 cities, and 3 bottles of wine… the Sicily episode is finally here—take two. And this time, the mic was actually turned on.

Episode 134: Debra Buhring Llapaj (pen name: Sophia Elan) & Her Book, Sicilian Seductions, a Mediterranean Love AffairABOUT SOPHIASophia is a former corporate lawyer turned wellness advocate and multi-genre author, is on a mission to inspire and empower others to live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. After conquering complex PTSD, she centered her life around passion, purpose, and pleasure. A passionate advocate of self-care and Mediterranean living, she shares her insights and journey through her writing and Mediterranean Me lifestyle brand. Sophia has authored over a dozen books, including an uplifting memoir, a holistic wellness “KISS” (keep it simple, sweetheart) collection, and a multi-part Mediterranean-based Happily Ever Now series, inspired by her life. She is a HeartMath® Certified Coach and is creating a non-profit, GiGi's Angels, to raise awareness for mental health and cardiovascular health. Most recently from Napa, California, Sophia, a frequent contributor to International Living, has lived throughout the Mediterranean for the last two decades. She encourages us all to embrace life with a curious spirit and an open heart.CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS• The meaning of KISS.• Examples of the ravages of chronic stress.• Writing to undo repression.• "Happiness loves company."• "...enhance your holistic wealth."• "Hugs not drugs."• The cyclical patterns of relationships we live.• The programming we endure in childhood.• "...until you get to that point where you're helping somebody manage their bodies, their emotions, their minds, and not just pumping them with information, you're just creating little soldiers to send out into the world."• "I think we tend to complicate things by trying to oversimplify things."• "...that my husband trying to kill me is what actually catapulted me to truly living an authentic life."• "Don't blame the clowns for being clowns. Ask why you keep going to the circus."• Living a life like Pinocchio.• "...our brains are wired to where we like the familiar, even if it's familiar misery, familiar hell."• Better vs. Bitter.• Nature as Vitamin N.• The power of community.• Embrace the magic that happens with uncertainty.• LonelinessThe MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sophia is, Where do you feel at home so that you can be truly and authentically yourself?FIND SOPHIAWebsite: www.mediterraneanme.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mediterraneanmeInstagram: https://www.Instagram.com/mediterraneanme52Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewellnessangelLinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-134-debra-buhring-llapaj-her-book-sicilian-john-m--prxge/?trackingId=6MQcg4T5ThqapjXrjpXVLw%3D%3DCHAPTERS - FINALIZE00:00 - The Book Leads Podcast – Sophia Elan00:59- Introduction & Bio02:09 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?22:10- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?26:17 - The story of Sophia's PTSD.28:03 - The power of trauma in someone's story.52:36 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?55:49 - What is your super power?58:47 - What does leadership mean to you?59:28 - Can you introduce us to the book we're discussing?01:00:59 - Sophia's love for the Mediterranean and Türkiye01:15:05 - What lessons do you hope readers take away from your novel?01:20:05 - What book has inspired you?01:23:24- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:Watch on YouTubeListen on SpotifyListen on Apple PodcastsRead About The Book Leads – Blog PostFor more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's LeadershipLessons, if you haven't already!

Fabrizio DI Michele, the Consul General of Italy in New York, joins us for an inspiring conversation recorded at the lively Red Sauce Studio in Little Italy. The narrative unfolds as Fabrizio takes us on a journey from his Sicilian and Abruzzese roots to his diplomatic role amidst a global pandemic. With co-hosts John Viola, Patrick O'Boyle, and Dr. Marcella Martin, we uncover not just the personal stories of Fabrizio's heritage and transition but also the broader Italian American tapestry that shapes cultural and diplomatic ties between Italy and America.   Our discussion steers into Italy's unique political and economic landscape, where we explore the nation's role as both a guardian of cultural heritage and an innovator in global industry. Italy's thriving small and medium enterprises, despite the challenge of public debt, stand as a testament to resilience and adaptability. We touch on how Italy balances its dual identity as a cultural icon and a technological hub. These elements illustrate Italy's multifaceted narrative and its ongoing endeavor to project these dimensions onto the world stage, resonating deeply with the Italian mAmerican experience.   We turn our attention to the evolving identity of Italian Americans, exploring how social media and storytelling serve as bridges over cultural divides. Fabrizio shares his initial stereotypes and how his perspective evolved upon engaging with the vibrant Italian American community in America. From the nuances of identity and heritage we examine the rich dialogue between tradition and modernity, both in Italy and among Italian Americans. This episode invites listeners to embrace the complex layers of identity, encouraging a renewed appreciation for the stories that connect us across oceans and generations.     Stick around next week to listen and watch part 2!

Dennis is joined via Zoom by playwright Tom Jacobson whose latest play Tasty Little Rabbit is currently showing at the Moving Arts Theatre in Los Angeles. The play tells the true story of a 1936 Fascist Italian investigation of pornography charges in Taormina, Sicily. This artistic prosecution uncovers a much darker secret of a 1890s love triangle between photographer Wilhelm Von Gloeden, an a 18 year-old Sicilian boy and a mysterious Irish poet. Tom talks about how he first learned of the true story, visiting Sicily as part of his research, the riveting "Kissing Contest" scene at the play's center and why the story is so relevant to today. He also talks about how he's been able to be so productive as a playwright while working a day job as a fundraiser for organizations like the Natural History Museum, LACMA and the Los Angeles Zoo. Other topics include: falling in love with theater as a kid in Oklahoma, using a New York-based alias to get his breakthrough play Cyberqueer produced in Los Angeles, writing plays to upset his mother, being told he's "too old to write for TV" at the age of 33, meeting his husband of 30 years on a blind date and why he loves being a part of the LA theater community.

*DISCLAIMER: We experienced problems with the audio on this Podcast. We apologize for how it sounds yet we wanted to deliver this beautiful story for an amazing film. We hope you enjoyed the discussion. Ever wondered how a $20 bill could symbolize a life changing moment or how the warmth of Italian family life contrasts with its perceived patriarchal structure? We're diving into all this and more with an incredible panel discussing "Nonnas," a film now on Netflix that beautifully captures Italian American culture. Broadcasting from the vibrant Red Sauce Studio in Little Italy, John and Pat invite you to join a lively discussion featuring Brenda Vaccaro, Stephen Chbosky, Liz Maccie and Jody Scaravella. Together, we'll uncover the heartwarming inspiration behind this cinematic gem. We'll also explore compelling tales of family and heritage, where kitchens are more than just a place for cooking – they're the very heart of the home. Hear from a guest actress whose Sicilian roots led her to Broadway, and the significance of strong matriarchal influences in shaping her career. From Brenda's masterful domestic skills cultivated in Calabria to the exuberant spirit of Italian American identity in Hollywood, we celebrate the strength and magic that women bring to these traditions, offering a universal resonance that transcends cultural boundaries. As we savor stories of shared meals, family names, and the pride of belonging, we'll reflect on the connections found in Italian American communities across the globe. Whether it's the camaraderie at the Italian Club of Dallas or the global culinary traditions brought to life in Enoteca Maria, the episode concludes with the tantalizing anticipation of a potential sequel to "Nonnas." Join us as we embrace and celebrate the joys of Italian heritage, leaving listeners with a catchy reminder that being born Italian can lead to a truly great life. DONATE TO THE FEAST OF OUR LADY OF SACRO MONTE (PAT'S FEAST) https://www.gofundme.com/f/2025-feast-of-our-lady-of-sacro-monte?lid=avktw0sav8sh&utm_source=product&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TXN_donation_receipt_adyen_tip&utm_content=internal WHERE TO WATCH NONNAS https://www.netflix.com/title/81936724?source=35   THEIR SOCIALS Brenda Vaccaro Instagram: @officialbrendavaccaro   Stephen Chbosky Instagram: @chboskys X: @StephenChbosky   Liz Macie Facebook: Liz Maccie   Jody Scaravella Instagram: @enoteca_maria   ENOTECA MARIA WEBSITE https://enotecamaria.com/  

Cannoli, a global promoter of flavours. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loved around the world. - Ang cannoli ay itinuturing na promoter ng maraming flavour sa buong mundo.

Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let's explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy's largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy's largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy's most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como's shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy's 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region's iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that's a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy's sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's also the perfect season to explore Lombardy's slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice's islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo's blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy's largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn't miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy's most famous cheeses.Veneto's culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don't forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy's most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both winter skiing and summer hiking and biking, thanks to its stunning Alpine scenery.But Piedmont isn't just about breathtaking views—it's steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As the first capital of Italy, it boasts grand palaces, remarkable art, and sacred relics like the famed Shroud of Turin. The capital city of Turin is a vibrant hub, home to Europe's largest outdoor food market and the monthly Gran Balon flea market, a haven for vintage and antique lovers.Venture beyond the city and you'll discover a region bursting with charm and flavor. Tour the Langhe Hills, a paradise for vineyard visits, and sample Bagna Cauda, a warm anchovy and garlic dip beloved by locals. Wander the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, or stroll the cobbled streets of Neive, where views of rolling hills and storybook cottages create an unforgettable setting. In Asti, you can witness the September medieval horse races and visit the majestic Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Gottardo. For a true fairy-tale escape, head to Macugnaga in the valley of Monte Rosa, a perfect base for both skiing and hiking. And just outside of Turin lies the hidden gem of Lake Orta, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.Piedmont's culinary scene is just as spectacular. With 35 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 30 with one star—the region is a paradise for food lovers. Dine in Alba during white truffle season (September to January), and savor iconic regional dishes like Agnolotti del Plin and Coniglio Arrosto. Wine enthusiasts will be in heaven here—Piedmont is the land of Barolo, the "king of wines," and Barbaresco, two of Italy's most prestigious reds.Tourissimo Tips:Piedmont is home to the Slow Food movement: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/why-piedmont-is-renowned-for-its-slow-foodTourissimo Tip–Check out this blog for a guide to a day of eating in Turin: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/a-day-of-eating-in-turinTourissimo Tip–One of the Best Meals of Your Life will be at the Piazza Duomo in Alba!Emilia-RomagnaLocated in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is a vibrant and diverse region known for its perfect blend of “slow food” and “fast cars.” This area is considered both the culinary and automotive capital of Italy, offering rich traditions, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.Food lovers will be in heaven here. Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of iconic Italian delicacies such as Mortadella, Tortellini in Brodo, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, traditional Balsamic Vinegar, Lambrusco, and egg-based fresh pastas like lasagna, tortellini, and tagliatelle. A visit to Parma lets you savor authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and world-class Prosciutto, as well as enjoy the elegant Teatro Regio opera house.The region also has a need for speed—it's home to legendary automotive brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. For car enthusiasts, the Ferrari Museum in Modena is a must-see. Emilia-Romagna even has a dedicated cycling tourism office, and in summer 2023, it played host to several stages of the Tour de France, which began in nearby Florence.Beyond the food and cars, Emilia-Romagna offers a range of enchanting destinations. The capital city of Bologna is known for its Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the scenic Santuario Madonna di San Luca. In Ravenna, marvel at the dazzling, colorful mosaics and the historic San Vitale Basilica. Along the coast, vibrant seaside resorts like Cervia, Cesenatico, and Rimini create a lively, carnival-like party atmosphere from late May through September. For a more peaceful experience, explore the medieval gem of Brisighella, a lesser-known treasure full of charm.When it comes to fine dining, Emilia-Romagna doesn't disappoint. The region boasts 24 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, three two-star, and twenty one-star establishments. Visitors are often struck by the warmth and generosity of the locals—some of the most hospitable people in Italy—who express their love through exceptional food and outstanding service.Tourissimo Tips:Did you know that there is a whole other country within Emilia Romagna? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/san-marino-the-other-small-country-within-italyTourissimo Tip–Pietra di Bismantova was an inspiration for Dante: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/pietra-di-bismantova-the-inspiration-for-dantes-purgatoryTourissimo Tip–You can cross the Rubicon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/crossing-the-rubiconTrentino-South TyrolNestled along Italy's northern border with Switzerland, Trentino–South Tyrol is a stunning mountainous region that blends Italian and Austrian influences, making it a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its striking Alpine scenery, exceptional cuisine, and rich cultural duality, this region offers the best of both worlds.The South Tyrol capital, Bolzano, is renowned for having the highest quality of life in Italy, combining the clean, efficient infrastructure often associated with Germany with the flavorful food and spirited lifestyle of Italian culture.Outdoor adventurers will be captivated by the Dolomites, with their dramatic limestone peaks—ideal for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking vistas. Don't miss the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest Alpine meadow, which is especially stunning in spring and summer. Explore shimmering Lake Garda and uncover the region's medieval past through spectacular castles like Schloss Tirol, Castel Roncolo, and Castel d'Appiano.Tourissimo Tip–An off-the-beaten-path outdoor paradise can be found in the Alps of Trentino. Check out the Val di Sole. This is one of the areas that Beppe and Heather regularly go to on their personal vacations in Italy: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-wild-dolomitesThe culinary offerings here reflect the region's unique blend of cultures. Traditional dishes range from Bratwurst and Goulash to Italian-style pastas with hearty meats like deer. Foodies should try Speck, a savory smoked ham, perfectly paired with a glass of Gewürztraminer, a fragrant white wine native to the area. The region also produces excellent white wines and lighter reds that pair beautifully with its alpine cuisine.When it comes to fine dining, Trentino–South Tyrol excels with 33 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three three-star, five two-star, and twenty-five one-star establishments, making it one of Italy's most impressive gourmet regions.LiguriaLocated along Italy's rugged northwestern coastline, Liguria—also known as the Italian Riviera—boasts dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and incredible culinary traditions. The region is best known for the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, as well as the glamorous resort towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.Tourissimo Tip– If you visit the Cinque Terre, don't forget to look up, and hike up away from the crowds to see the heroic vineyards: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-heroic-winemaking-of-the-cinque-terreBecause of the narrow, winding roads with steep drop-offs, many travelers prefer to explore the region via the local train or by public or private boat. If you're planning to hike the famous trails, be aware that entrance permits are now required due to landslides and overtourism.In the regional capital of Genoa, dive into maritime history, visit the iconic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and wander the city's old port area. Just outside Genoa, discover the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible only by boat or footpath. In Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre towns, visit the Doria Castle and the beautiful Santa Margherita Church.Liguria is also a celebrity hotspot, and its cuisine is just as impressive as its scenery. Known as the birthplace of pesto, the region is famous for Pesto alla Genovese, made with a special local basil. Be sure to try the region's olive oil, garlic, cheeses, and exceptional seafood, especially the anchovies. Other regional specialties include Focaccia di Recco, a cheese-filled flatbread, and lighter olive oils that perfectly complement Ligurian dishes.For fine dining, Liguria is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, all with one star, offering refined cuisine rooted in the region's coastal and agricultural traditions.Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Friuli)Tucked between Veneto, Austria, and Slovenia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a lesser-known gem that offers a unique blend of Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and coastal charm. The region features part of the Dolomites, ideal for hiking, skiing, and capturing breathtaking scenery.The capital, Trieste, is a refined port city with a fascinating blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. Don't miss the Miramare Castle, perched over the sea with stunning views. In Cividale del Friuli, stroll through cobbled streets and sample Frico, a savory, crispy dish made of cheese and potatoes, best enjoyed with a glass of Schioppettino, a bold red wine native to the region.For outdoor adventures and relaxation, spend a beach day at Lignano Sabbiadoro, camp in Sistiana, bike the trails around Grado, or explore the ancient Roman ruins in Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the enormous Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), stroll through Unity of Italy Square, and tour the Revoltella Museum for modern art.Friuli-Venezia Giulia is also home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, including two two-star establishments and five one-star venues, reflecting the region's quiet but impressive culinary scene.Tourissimo Tip– A hotel that Heather and Beppe love in Cormons is La Subida. It's a unique, high-end, and rustic property nestled in nature that boasts a 1-Michelin star restaurant: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/hotels-we-love-la-subidaAosta ValleyNestled in the northwestern tip of Italy, where it borders Switzerland and France, the Aosta Valley is Italy's smallest and highest region—a true mountain paradise. This alpine jewel is renowned for its dramatic snowcapped peaks, storybook castles, and a unique blend of French and Italian culture, as both languages are spoken here.The region is home to Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco), Europe's highest peak, which straddles the borders of Italy, France, and Switzerland. While the summit lies on the French side, visitors on the Italian side can experience the Skyway Monte Bianco, a breathtaking cable car ride offering panoramic views of the Alps.Key landmarks include the striking Matterhorn, the impressive Fénis and Savoy Castles, and the Bard Fortress, one of the largest and most remarkable fortifications in the Alps. After a day in the mountains, relax in one of the region's thermal spas, and indulge in Fonduta, a rich, velvety cheese fondue perfect for chilly alpine evenings.Wine lovers should sample the region's distinctive red mountain wines, especially Enfer d'Arvier, known for its bold flavor and high-altitude character.Tourissimo Tip–A fun tradition is the Friendship Cup, a communal cup of coffee: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-friendship-cup-of-valle-daostaCentral Italy: History, Art, and Rolling HillsTuscany (Toscana)Tuscany, the heart of the Renaissance, is a captivating region of rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and timeless art and architecture. Located just below Italy's northern regions, it's a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and food and wine enthusiasts alike. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, the region offers a wide variety of world-class wines.The regional capital, Florence, is one of Italy's most walkable and safe major cities, making it ideal for solo travelers. Admire its architectural wonders while sipping on Chianti Classico and indulging in a local favorite—Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Must-see landmarks in Florence include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. For iconic views, head to Piazzale Michelangelo.Beyond Florence, explore the historic cities of Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano, each offering its own charm. Don't miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Siena Cathedral, and spend time in the picturesque public squares like Piazza del Campo, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazza del Duomo.For off-the-beaten-path adventures, discover medieval hilltop villages such as Sorano, or head to the Maremma coast for scenic beaches and bold wines. Tuscany also shines in its culinary excellence, boasting 41 Michelin-starred restaurants—including 1 three-star, 5 two-star, and 35 one-star establishments.Tourissimo Tip–3 places in Tuscany you didn't know existed: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/three-places-in-tuscany-you-did-not-know-existedUmbriaUmbria, often called the "Green Heart of Italy," is the country's only completely landlocked region, nestled between Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche. Though it lacks large cities, Umbria more than makes up for it with breathtaking natural beauty, medieval towns, and a rich culinary tradition.One of Umbria's most impressive sights is the Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Falls)—the second tallest waterfall in Europe. Nature lovers and photographers alike will be amazed by its dramatic 165-meter drop. The region is also home to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy's most revered saints, and a major pilgrimage destination.Food lovers will delight in Umbria's hearty, earthy cuisine, featuring lentils, mushroom-based dishes, cured meats, and the prized black truffle (Tartufo Nero di Norcia). Pair these specialties with a glass of Sagrantino di Montefalco, a robust red wine unique to the region.Umbria's culinary excellence is further reflected in its four Michelin-starred restaurants: Casa Vissani, Vespasia, Ada, and Elementi. Each holds one Michelin star, offering refined takes on the region's rustic flavors.Tourissimo Tip–Norcia is definitely one of Italy's culinary gems: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/norcia-one-of-italys-culinary-gemsMarcheLocated in central Italy on the Adriatic side, Marche is a beautiful region with a population of 1 million people, known for its charming towns, rich history, and welcoming, hardworking culture. The region offers stunning destinations like Urbino and Ancona, along with pristine beaches such as Spiaggia della Due Sorelle, Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, Mezzavalle, and the Riviera del Conero, not to mention many picturesque nature reserves.Must-see landmarks include Castello di Gradara, Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, the Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto, Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, Tempio del Valadier, and the breathtaking underground Frasassi Caves. Marche's favorite cities and nearby towns also include Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, and Cascia.For those drawn to religious history, highlights include the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis, the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, as well as the Basilica of Santa Rita da Cascia. History lovers should visit Rocca Paolina, Piazza IV Novembre, Fontana Maggiore, Piazza del Comune, and Grotta di Monte Cucco, while museums like Narni Sotterranea, the National Gallery, and Nobile Collegio del Cambio offer rich cultural experiences.This region is famous for its culinary tradition, especially its mastery of seafood, and is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants — including Uliassi in Senigallia, proudly holding three Michelin stars, along with one two-star and five one-star establishments. No visit would be complete without tasting Olive all'Ascolana, fried stuffed olives that perfectly capture Marche's local flavor. All of this, combined with the region's natural beauty and warm, fun, and friendly locals, makes Marche a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Ascoli Piceno, the town where the Ascoli olive is from, is beautiful, especially at night when it appears to glow: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/ascoli-piceno-the-italian-town-that-glows-at-nightLazioLazio, one of Italy's central regions, though often considered a southern region by Italians, is a place rich with history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. At its heart is the capital city of Rome, a destination overflowing with opportunities for exploration. Essential sites include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and countless other remarkable attractions. No visit to Rome is complete without savoring its famous dishes, including Cacio e Pepe — a creamy cheese and pepper pasta — along with local favorites like Spaghetti alla Gricia, Pasta all'Amatriciana, and Pasta Carbonara, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp Frascati wine while taking in views of the Colosseum. Lazio as a whole has 107 two-star Michelin restaurants and 105 one-star restaurants. If you find yourself in the Trastevere neighborhood, there are many wonderful popular restaurants, including La Scaletta and Le Mani in Pasta.Another must-see is Vatican City, home to the Vatican and its world-renowned religious and artistic treasures. In December 2025, Rome will host the Jubilee, or Holy Year — a significant Catholic Church event focused on forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal, held only once every 25 years and drawing pilgrims from across the globe.Beyond Rome, Lazio offers a beautiful coastline and peaceful countryside, perfect for travelers seeking quieter escapes. Among its hidden gems is Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city that once served as the bustling port of Rome, located at the mouth of the Tiber River. With its blend of legendary landmarks, culinary traditions, religious significance, and off-the-beaten-path treasures, Lazio is a captivating region waiting to be explored.Tourissimo Tip–There's a wonderful project underway to create a cycle path around the perimeter of Rome: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-in-rome-grab-a-bike-and-bike-the-grabAbruzzoAbruzzo, known as Italy's green region, lies in the central-eastern part of the country and boasts a stunning combination of mountains, coastline, and unspoiled nature. Along the beautiful Trabocchi Coast, visitors can admire the historic trabocchi — ingenious wooden fishing structures built by fishermen centuries ago to safely fish the Adriatic waters, many of which have now been converted into charming seaside restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood while suspended above the waves with sunsets as your backdrop. When it comes to dining, Abruzzo currently boasts four Michelin-starred restaurants; there are three 1-star restaurants and one 3-star restaurant. Food lovers shouldn't miss Arrosticini, the region's famous grilled lamb skewers, or a glass of bold Montepulciano d'Abruzzo red wine. Outdoor enthusiasts have countless opportunities for adventure, from swimming at the Stiffe Caves and strolling the Ponte del Mare to relaxing on the beaches of Riserva Naturale Guidata Punta Aderci and hiking to the iconic Rocca Calascio. Lakeside escapes await at Lago di Scanno and Lago di Barrea, while the towering Gran Sasso d'Italia and the expansive Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, and Lazio e Molise offer breathtaking scenery and pristine trails. The region is home to many national parks — Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise National Park, Gran Sasso and Laga Mountains National Park, and Maiella National Park — perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, and spotting the highest peaks of the Apennine Mountain Range. Cyclists can enjoy the Bike to Coast cycle path, a 131 km (81.4 mile) route running along the Adriatic coast from Pescara to Vasto. History and architecture lovers will appreciate sites like Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Centro Storico di Sulmona, Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, and the Medieval Village of Pacentro. For a uniquely tranquil experience, visit the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa. Abruzzo is also a fabulous winter skiing destination and keeps traditions alive with events like Transumanza, the seasonal migration of livestock, primarily sheep, between the high-altitude pastures of the region. With its mountain majesty, historic villages, flavorful cuisine, and coastal charm, Abruzzo offers something unforgettable for every traveler.Tourissimo Tips:More info on the trabocchi coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/abruzzos-trabocchi-coastAbruzzo Bike to Coast is a beautiful bike path along the coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-along-abruzzos-coastMoliseOne of Italy's most untouched and lesser-known regions, Molise is famously nicknamed “the region that doesn't exist,” though it's rich in history, traditions, and natural beauty. This quiet region offers a mix of beaches and mountains, including part of the National Park of Abruzzo within the Apennines mountain range, filled with abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and winter ski opportunities. Tourissimo Tip–The Region That Doesn't Exist: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-italian-region-that-doesnt-existThe capital city, Campobasso, is home to notable sites like Monforte Castle and several Romanesque churches, while the charming coastal town of Termoli draws visitors for its beaches, trabucchi (historic fishing huts now serving fresh seafood), and local specialties like brodetto, a traditional seafood stew. Along the Molise coast in Termoli, dining at a trabucchi offers fresh catches with a side of Adriatic views. History buffs should visit the Samnite ruins in the Pietrabbondante archaeological area, the well-preserved Saepinum Archaeological Area, and landmarks like Lago di Castel San Vincenzo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Purification, Monforte Castle, and the Basilica of Saint Mary of Sorrow. A must-see is the Marinelli Bell Foundry, founded in 1339. It's the oldest continuously operating bell foundry in the world, Italy's oldest family business, and the official provider of bells to the Vatican. Food lovers can sample Cavatelli, a local pasta specialty, paired with Tintilia, a rare red wine unique to Molise. The region is also home to seven one-star Michelin restaurants and several local food tours that showcase its rustic culinary traditions. While Molise's quiet charm and untouched landscapes make it a special destination, visitors should note that English is not widely spoken, making it a truly authentic Italian experience for those eager to explore one of the country's hidden gems.Southern Italy: Sun, Sea, and Ancient WondersCampania The birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, the Mediterranean Diet, and Mozzarella di Bufala, Campania is one of Italy's most vibrant and culturally rich regions. Home to the bustling regional capital Naples (Napoli), it boasts some of the country's most iconic destinations, including Pompeii, the stunning Amalfi Coast, and the tranquil Cilento Coast.Along the sparkling, deep-blue waters of the Golfo di Napoli, you'll find must-visit coastal towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, as well as the famous islands of Ischia, Capri, and the colorful Procida. Visitors can hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods, explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Archaeological Pompeii, forever shadowed by the gray cone of Mt. Vesuvius, and savor the region's culinary gems like ultra-fresh seafood and crisp Falanghina wine.History and culture lovers shouldn't miss Sansevero Chapel Museum, San Carlo Theatre, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the lush Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Campania also impresses with its historic castles, including the Royal Palace of Caserta, Ovo Castle, and Castello Aragonese d'Ischia. Wine enthusiasts should head to the province of Avellino, known for producing some of the best wines in southern Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Wine is also grown inland on the Amalfi Coast, and there are some vines that are 250 years old (pre-phylloxera): https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/old-vines-on-the-amalfi-coastNature lovers will be drawn to the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins like Paestum and Velia, the majestic Padula Charterhouse, and idyllic coastal villages.Campania is also a paradise for food lovers, home to 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, eight two-star, and forty-two one-star establishments. From world-famous landmarks to hidden treasures, Campania offers an irresistible blend of history, nature, food, and coastal charm.CalabriaWith its rugged coastlines, dramatic landscapes, and hidden treasures, Calabria is a must-visit region in southern Italy. Known for its bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, visitors should sample 'Nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage paste, and the region's famous Calabrian chiles. The local cuisine embraces cucina povera, a tradition of simple, hearty dishes featuring handmade pasta made with just flour and water. Calabria offers a growing fine dining scene with six one-star Michelin restaurants. For nature lovers, Calabria is home to three stunning national parks — Sila, Aspromonte, and Pollino — ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in untouched landscapes. Along the coast, Capo Vaticano stands out as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, offering breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. History buffs and castle enthusiasts can explore impressive fortresses like Castello Ruffo di Scilla, Castello Murat, Castello di Le Castella, and Castello Aragonese. Don't miss charming towns and villages such as Tropea, famous for its clifftop views and beaches, as well as Scilla, Pentedattilo, and Le Castella. With its authentic culture, stunning coastlines, flavorful cuisine, and rich history, Calabria remains one of Italy's most captivating yet underrated regions.Tourissimo Tip–Way off the beaten path, lies a  unique museum in Mammola, Calabria https://calabriastraordinaria.it/en/news/visit-to-musaba-the-sistine-chapel-of-calabriaPugliaKnown as the Maldives of Italy, Puglia is a sun-drenched region celebrated for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and miles of stunning coastline. With a dry Mediterranean climate and scenery that often feels more Greek than Italian, Puglia is famed for its beaches in Salento, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns. One of its most iconic sights is the fairytale-like trulli houses of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is also a food lover's paradise, offering specialties like Orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, the classic Fave e Cicoria (fava bean purée with wild chicory), and fresh seafood paired with crisp vegetables. Wine lovers can savor Primitivo, a bold local red. For fine dining, the region boasts nine one-star Michelin restaurants, blending rustic flavors with refined culinary creativity.Puglia is dotted with unique cities and towns worth exploring, including Locorotondo, Otranto, Lecce, Monopoli, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. Nature and history enthusiasts will enjoy visiting extraordinary sites like the Grotte di Castellana, the dramatic Cave of Poetry, the ancient Basilica San Nicola, and the scenic Gargano Peninsula. With its thousand-year-old olive trees, Puglia is the largest olive oil producer in the world, known for its strong, spicy oils. The locals here are famously warm and welcoming, going out of their way to make visitors feel at home.Puglia's blend of natural beauty, rich tradition, and heartfelt hospitality makes it one of Italy's most captivating and underrated destinations.Tourissimo Tip–Here are some of the gems of Puglia: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/some-of-the-gems-of-pugliaBasilicataBasilicata, a remote yet captivating region with a population of just 500,000, offers a wealth of unique experiences despite its secluded location. Among its most intriguing destinations are the ghost town of Craco and the ancient cave city of Matera, both steeped in history and cinematic charm. Other towns worth visiting include Maratea and Palombaroa, each offering its own cultural and scenic appeal.Tourissimo Tip–Matera is magical! https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/destination-highlight-matera-the-city-of-stonesThe region is rich in historical and religious landmarks, such as the Crypt of Original Sin with its remarkable frescoes, and the medieval Melfi Castle. Don't miss the towering Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a striking monument that overlooks the Tyrrhenian coast.For a taste of local flavor, try Peperoni Cruschi—crispy, sun-dried peppers that are a beloved regional delicacy. Basilicata is also known for its exceptional wines, especially the bold, full-bodied reds of Aglianico del Vulture DOC, made primarily from the Aglianico grape. White wine lovers will appreciate the region's Greco di Tufo and Fiano varietals as well. Basilicata also has a total of 14 one-star Michelin restaurants. Adventurers can experience an adrenaline rush on The Angel's Flight, a giant zip line that offers stunning views and a thrilling ride through the Lucanian landscape.SicilySicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a world of its own, offering a diverse landscape of coastlines, mountains, and magical towns such as Cefalù, Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Noto, Agrigento, and Syracuse. Palermo serves as the cultural and diplomatic capital of the region, while Catania stands as its business hub.A volcanic island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sicily boasts a rich collection of cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, the active volcano Mount Etna, the stunning Duomo di Cefalù, and the picturesque islands of Stromboli, Bella, and Ortigia. The region is also home to the renowned Baroque Triangle in the Val di Noto region of southeastern Sicily, where the eight towns of Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, and Scicli have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding examples of late Baroque architecture.Sicily's culinary scene is just as impressive. Indulge in traditional Sicilian cannoli, filled with sheep's milk ricotta cheese and always stuffed fresh to order. Take a street food tour to savor local favorites like arancini, and don't miss sipping on a glass of Nero d'Avola, one of Sicily's most famous wines. The region is also internationally celebrated for its top-tier agriculture and winemaking.For a taste of authentic Italian charm beyond the tourist trail, explore the towns featured in I Borghi Più Belli d'Italia—Italy's list of its most beautiful hidden gems. Tourissimo Tip–This is a great tip for all 20 regions of Italy. Find out more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-italyFood lovers will be delighted to know that Sicily is also home to 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three two-star establishments and twenty with one star.Tourissimo Tip–If you visit Corleone, you should definitely learn about the legacy of the Mafia. We in North America tend to have a romanticized view of the mafia, but for the locals, the history is more brutal. See some photos and learn more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/letizia-battaglia-groundbreaking-photojournalist-who-fearlessly-documented-the-mafia-in-her-native-sicilySardiniaSardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, is a rugged, rural paradise known for its natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and ancient history. The island is home to features like the Apennine Coast, the Adriatic Coast, and the Apennine Mountains. Most of Sardinia's population lives in the capital region of Cagliari, but much of the island remains untouched, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian island life.One of Sardinia's most fascinating distinctions is that the Barbagia region is recognized as a Blue Zone—an area with an unusually high number of centenarians. This longevity is attributed to the region's healthy diet, active lifestyle, and strong sense of community. For outdoor enthusiasts, inland Sardinia offers some of the best biking and hiking experiences in all of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–What is a Blue Zone? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/blue-zoneThe island's coastlines are just as enticing. Costa Smeralda is often described as paradise on earth, with stunning beaches like Spiaggia di Tuerredda, Cala Goloritzé, and Spiaggia di Porto Giunco perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena), a protected area with crystal-clear waters and pristine landscapes.Charming towns such as Alghero, Bosa, and Cagliari add to the island's appeal. Many of Sardinia's towns are nestled in the mountains located in the island's center, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.Cultural and historical attractions abound. Must-see sites include the Nora Archaeological Park, Bastione di Saint Remy, Parco Archeologico Naturalistico di Santa Cristina, and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. For an unforgettable natural wonder, venture into the Frecce delle grotte srl and Neptune's Grotto, stunning sea caves accessible by boat or stairs carved into cliffs.Sardinia is also home to a unique ancient civilization. Scattered across the island are over 7,000 nuraghe—megalithic stone structures built during the Nuragic Age (c. 1900–730 BC). These mysterious, tower-like buildings are the island's most iconic symbol, and some scholars believe there were once over 10,000 nuraghe structures in total.Religious architecture also impresses, with highlights like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia, the Church of the Holy Trinity of Saccargia, and the Basilica di San Simplicio showcasing Sardinia's spiritual and artistic heritage.Sardinian cuisine reflects its mountainous geography. Surprisingly, for an island, the diet leans more toward land-based ingredients than seafood. Signature dishes include Porceddu (roast pig), Fregola (a traditional Sardinian pasta), and the adventurous Casu marzu—a sheep's milk cheese intentionally infested with live maggots and considered a local delicacy. Sardinia also holds 16 one-star Michelin restaurants.To accompany these flavors, try a glass of Cannonau red wine, known for its high polyphenol content and potential health benefits, or the refreshing Vermentino white wine, perfect for warm Mediterranean days.Tourissimo Tip–Magic Trick or Pasta Making? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/magic-trick-or-pasta-making From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio!From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio! 

In today's episode, we chat with Marc Vetri, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author who helped put Philadelphia on the national culinary map.Marc is the founder of Vetri Cucina and the force behind acclaimed restaurants like Osteria, Pizzeria Vetri, and Fiorella. His journey began in a South Philly kitchen alongside his Sicilian grandmother, and took him from dishwashing as a teen to working under Wolfgang Puck in Los Angeles — before buying a one-way ticket to Northern Italy that would cement his path. Beyond the kitchen, Marc is a passionate mentor, musician, and founder of the Vetri Community Partnership, a nonprofit helping kids and families discover the power of cooking and nutrition.Join us as Marc shares the origin story behind his culinary empire — and why the best chefs don't just cook, they care.

“I learned that I'm dogged… I didn't abandon it, and that became very important—not giving up.” — Janet Constantino In this soulful and insightful episode of Uncorking a Story, psychotherapist-turned-novelist Janet Constantino shares the winding journey that led to her debut novel Becoming Mariella. A former competitive Latin ballroom dancer with Sicilian roots and a love of jazz, Janet brings decades of life experience to her writing. She opens up about the long road to publication, her deep connection to family history, and how writing helps us make sense of where we come from—and where we're going. Key Themes: Balancing a career in psychotherapy with a lifelong passion for writing The story behind Becoming Mariella and its Sicilian inspiration Lessons in rejection, resilience, and rewriting Why some novels live in the drawer—and why that's okay Writing authentic, emotionally rich characters from family roots Choosing 2000 as a setting to avoid the social media minefield How personal curiosity fuels both therapy and storytelling Buy: Becoming Mariella Amazon: https://amzn.to/4hsYHV1 Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781647427689 Connect with Janet Website: https://www.janetconstantino.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janetconstantino2/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561036835050 Connect with Mike Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvS4fuG3L1JMZeOyHvfk_g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/ If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. #JanetConstantino #BecomingMariella #DebutNovel #WritersJourney #ResilientWriters #ItalianAmericanStories #PsychotherapistAuthor #HistoricalRoots #UncorkingAStory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Tech editor Sharon Wrobel and archaeology reporter Rossella Tercatin join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. The setting of a 17% tariff on Israel by the US appears to be paused for the moment, as Wrobel discusses. Israel thought it could receive a reduction on the tariff, the main worry is the indirect impact and talk of a recession in Israel's tiny market and the instability and uncertainty that could cause. There are ongoing negotiations with efforts to protect Israeli companies and concerns over exposure to machinations in global markets and the value of Israeli savings. Over 8,000 tech employees have left Israel in recent months and Israel was downgraded in the global ranking of top 50 wealthiest cities as millionaires and tech workers relocated, following first the judicial overhaul and then the ongoing war and hostage situation. Wrobel discusses the biggest concern in that shift, given the high-tech sector's payment of taxes, and its effect on the state and the Israeli economy. Tercatin discusses research at the Academy of the Hebrew Language, looking at how Hebrew accents developed across different communities and millennia, and the role of cultural heritage in preserving those language differences. She also talks about a Sicilian farmer who is part of a centuries-old ritual to harvest a sweet, white sap from the bark of ash trees, a syrup known as manna. Tercatin describes the process and the substance, following an interview with the 75-year-old Sicilian farmer on the eve of the holiday of Passover, when Jews across the world commemorate the Exodus from Egypt, and when they ate manna in the desert. This conversation can also be viewed here: Please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog for more updates. For further reading: Demand for state-backed insurance soars as Israeli exporters fear Trump tariff chaos War spurs brain drain, outflow of Israeli high-tech employees, report finds Tel Aviv drops in global ranking of top 50 wealthiest cities as millionaires decamp Research center works to save myriad Hebrew dialects shaped by millennia of wandering In this Sicilian town, manna is a heavenly delicacy with deep roots Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: A boy looks at shipping containers in Haifa's port , Israel, Wednesday, April 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After Arnold Rothstein's murder, Charles Luciano works full time for a Sicilian gangster named Joe “the Boss” Masseria and quickly becomes Masseria's top lieutenant. Masseria begins to feud with a rival Sicilian, Salvatore Maranzano. By the start of the 1930s, the feud escalates into the mafia's bloodiest conflict yet, The Castellammarese War. As bodies pile up, Luciano decides he needs to take matters into his own hands. Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join   Apple users join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes, bingeable seasons and bonus episodes. Click the Black Barrel+ banner on Apple to get started with a 3-day free trial.   On YouTube, subscribe to INFAMOUS+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: hit “Join” on the Legends YouTube homepage.   For more details, please visit www.blackbarrelmedia.com. Our social media pages are: @blackbarrelmedia on Facebook and Instagram, and @bbarrelmedia on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacob Laval (The Unbreakable Boy, John Mulaney and the Sack Lunch Bunch) and Amanda Warren (The Night Agent, East New York) headline a Sicilian tale about sowing the seeds of kindness, compassion and crocuses.

Today we're excited to bring you the first episode of Shadow Kingdom: God's Banker. In the summer of 1982, the Vatican's top money man was found dead. Roberto Calvi was at the center of a prolific money laundering scheme that put him in the crosshairs of the Sicilian mafia, a secret far-right chapter of the Freemasons, and the Catholic Church. Forty years after his death was ruled a suicide, Shadow Kingdom host Nicolo Majnoni got a tip that there was more to the story. So who killed God's banker?Shadow Kingdom is a new series from Crooked Media and Campside Media. Each season starts with a crime, and as the layers are peeled back to find out who or what is at the center of it, a larger system at play is revealed.Subscribe to Shadow Kingdom: God's Banker wherever you get your podcasts or join Crooked's Friends Of The Pod subscription community to hear the full season right now. Join Friends Of The Pod at crooked.com/friends or subscribe through the Shadow Kingdom Apple feed.