Podcasts about Tuscan

Dreaming of Italy but worried about the cost? Travel advisors Ryan and Julie break down how a family of four can experience the magic of Italy at three different price points—from budget-conscious to moderate to luxury—proving that your dream Italian vacation is more accessible than you think.Episode HighlightsBudget-Conscious Italy ($350/person/night) Discover how to experience Rome and Florence over 7 nights without sacrificing the essentials. Learn why traveling during shoulder season (September-April, excluding peak summer), using trains and metro systems, and booking shared tours can dramatically reduce costs while still hitting major attractions like the Vatican, Coliseum, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Plus, find out why staying in hotels might actually save you money compared to Airbnbs in Italy.Moderate Italy ($525/person/night) Take your Italian adventure up a notch with a 10-night journey through Rome, Florence, and Sorrento. This itinerary adds exciting family-friendly experiences like a "Gladiator for a Day" program, pizza and gelato making classes, a stop at Pompeii, and a boat tour of Capri—all while keeping the trip surprisingly affordable through smart planning and high-end train tickets booked in advance.Luxury Italy ($820/person/night) Experience Italy like never before with complete flexibility in your travel dates, private tours customized to your family's interests, and two weeks exploring six incredible destinations: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Florence, Milan, and Venice. From cooking lessons at local markets to wine tastings in Tuscan farmhouses, gondola rides in Venice to tours of Lake Como, this is the ultimate Italian experience.Whether you're planning your first trip to Italy or returning for another adventure, this episode will open your eyes to the possibilities within your budget. Ryan and Julie also share valuable insider tips on transportation, tour options, and why certain choices make financial sense.Coming Soon: The hosts tease future episodes featuring Japan and Hawaii using this same three-tier approach!Support the showLove the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

Halloween over Florence: THE MARKET OF GHOSTSSeverino lived in the bell tower on the hill — the one next to the ancient Basilica of San Miniato al Monte.Every evening, at sunset, he would lock the gate at the base of the entrance stairway and before climbing back up, he would pause to watch Florence color itself amber.And so he did today as well. The tourists had left. Time stopped and silence became sacred again.Through the rusted bars the city stood there motionless — perhaps since forever; with its red roofs, marble facades and the Arno flowing between its stones like a glittering silver ribbon.Domes and towers trembling with light, almost suspended in the air, as if everything and everyone were holding their breath waiting for twilight — and for the night that would cover it with shadows, stars and dreams.One more glance, then he turned on his transistor radio that he had found a few years ago and the notes of Duke Ellington's 'Don't Get Around Much Anymore' filled the autumn evening.Silence may be sacred for the monks, but for Severino music was more so. Seven, his raven, didn't need to be called and at the first notes launched himself from the cypresses of the cemetery above, circled in front of the imposing facade of the Basilica and suddenly glided down along the stairway, to land gently on his left shoulder."Hey Seven, had a good day?""Yes. Could have been worse — Let's settle for that."At which, Severino smiled, turned up the radio's volume and began climbing resolutely toward le Porte del Cielo, while Jazz music echoed among the ancient stones.Nine years ago, on this same day in the month of October, the Olivetan monks residing in the Abbey found a child on the steps of the Basilica.He was there, wrapped in fog, silent as the night, eyes curious as the wind, without name and without past. They called him Severino — I don't know why — and he grew up among prayers and silences. He played in ancient rooms and discovered his world, surrounded by books, tombs, art and mysteries never revealed. At night a raven and a black cat accompanied him, illuminated by the moon, in the Cimitero delle Porte Sante, wandering among imposing crypts and motionless statues that whispered memories and mysteries.But on Halloween nights the whispers transform into screams and endless laments. Secrets manifest themselves, legends become reality, and dreams disguised as nightmares knock on doors lit by candles. And that full moon night was precisely this night: October 31st — and remember, whether you believe in spirits or not, nothing changes: the ghosts will come.And Severino was up there, right there waiting for them to arrive. Leaning out the highest window of the bell tower, calm, looking at Florence from above. While Thelonious Monk's 'Round Midnight' played on his radio, he watched — tapping time with one foot and waited.At the second of the twelve strokes of the midnight bells, something began to happen. On the Arno formed a dense fog that pulsed with spectral green. It began to rise and slide slow but inexorable over the bridges like fingers of cold hands of impatient ghosts. It slid over the Ponte Vecchio and rolled through the streets of Oltrarno until reaching San Niccolò, where it climbed up the hill swallowing everything it found in its path.When it reached the gate of San Miniato, it slipped through the bars and climbed up the stairs until it covered, like a high luminous tide, the entire square in front of the church. It climbed up the marble facade and wrapped also the Cimitero delle Porte Sante, covering the entire hill in a cloak of mystery. Then slowly, as if by enchantment, the fog began to dissolve rising toward the sky and when the last cloud melted into the night air, the square was no longer empty.Small jack-o'-lanterns with flickering lights floated in the air smiling with teeth of fire. Black candles sprouted from nowhere, illuminating spectral stalls full of everything and nothing. Bats that seemed made of paper but were alive fluttered among the lights with wings of black velvet, while autumn leaves danced without wind, sparkling with gold and copper. Pumpkins of every shape filled the stands, some carved with funny faces, others covered with silver spiderwebs that shone like threads of moon. Witch hats swirled in the air like flying umbrellas rotating slow on themselves. Roasted chestnuts perfumed the air with cinnamon and mystery, while small dancing skeletons tinkled like ice bells.And finally in the Cimitero delle Porte Sante, the Portal opened. Like every Halloween, for centuries, spirits from all over the world congregated in Florence for their annual meeting. A spectral river of ghosts poured into the square, each heading toward their own stall, and each with their impossible merchandise to sell or trade. The spirits had arrived and Severino observed them from above. A carnival of other worlds, made of sounds, colors and unimaginable stories.The deserted square had transformed into the Market of Ghosts. Stalls kept materializing from nowhere, carved and glowing pumpkins told each other stories of Halloweens past, present and future laughing malicious among the perfumes of lost memories, past centuries, tomorrow's candles and fallen stardust. The sky above the Tuscan hills and above Florence was full of ghosts arriving from everywhere to search for the unfindable. But no human eye could see this spectacle. No one except Severino, who descended from the tower enchanted by that spectacle and immersed himself in the crowd pulsating with otherworldly life. Seven circled above him observing with attentive eyes and cawing a bit nervous. Some ghosts looked at him with curiosity and recognized him. Someone greeted him and many others whispered his name in forgotten languages."There he is," murmured a witch from Prague."The child of time," sighed a Norman knight."He's returned, I told you so." laughed a Caribbean pirate.But Severino paid them no attention because there were ghosts selling: dreams of sleeping dragons, laughter of northern gnomes, tears of mermaids in love, the last breath of dinosaurs, shadows of unicorns. And even fears from past Halloweens — two for the price of one, but only for tonight. The ghost of a pirate who died during a boarding gone not so well shouted: "Storm bottles! Lightning in jars!" A witch from Salem whispered: "Love potions that last three lifetimes…" A medieval knight showed swords that cut fear, A Chinese spirit waved kites that fly into the past.The spectral crowd grew and thickened, laughed and bargained, while Severino walked amazed and fascinated among the impossible stalls of the Halloween Market. Seven cawed restless from above and Eleven, the black cat with orange eyes, jumped from one tent to another not losing sight of a single movement of Severino and the hundreds of souls circling around him.A ghost monk from an era that never existed saw him and smiled at him from behind a stall full of ancient radios adorned with mysterious symbols. Severino approached, fascinated."How wonderful! Do they all work?""Oh yes, certainly" replied the monk. "These transmit on the waves of past, present, and future time. But you don't need to buy one."The other ghosts stopped. They ceased selling, buying and bartering. They looked at Severino with respect and listened to what the collector of frequencies told him."The transistor radio you already have is more special than you think. But to discover its true secrets, you'll have to search in the ancient crypts where everything began."And suddenly the first lights of dawn began to illuminate the sky behind San Miniato with pink. In rush and hurry the ghosts said goodbye flying away in the wind. "Until next Halloween!" They told each other crossing in the sky. The stalls vanished. Lanterns and candles went out. The Market of Ghosts dissolved like a dream.Severino found himself alone in the empty square, Seven on his shoulder and Eleven sitting on the low wallLooking at Florence illuminating itself in the day of All Saints. He observed his old radio with new eyes and from the ancient crypts of San Miniato, something seemed to call him. He turned it on, turned up the volume and descended the stairway in time to Chet Baker's version of 'Autumn Leaves'.It was time to throw open the gate of the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte.___________________We will continue this story.... For now a Happy Halloween to all of you, may you always believe in magic!Story written by Marco Ciappelli for "Stories Under The Stars" Halloween 2025___________________Listen to Severino's Playlist for the songs that accompany this story and subscribe to discover new music with every adventure.

On today's episode, we sit down with Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. — entrepreneur, hospitality visionary, and member of one of the most ICONIC fashion families in the world — for a rich conversation that blends heritage, hospitality, and the evolving landscape of luxury living. Website: www.ilborro.it Instagram: salvatore_ferragamo_jr ilborro    BACK STORY The Italian Association of Arizona is thrilled to announce its 10th annual Italian Festival at Old Town Scottsdale Waterfront, where attendees can experience Italy in the Valley on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The two-day festival will bring back its theme “La Strada del Vino”, translated directly as the street of wine, offering visitors new opportunities to experience Italian cuisine, wine, live entertainment and a special Italian guest star in honor of the festival's 10th anniversary. “We are pleased to welcome fashion leader and wine owner Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. to the festival,” said Italian Association of Arizona Founder Dario Soldan. “As part of the iconic designer family, Mr. Ferragamo Jr.'s attendance highlights the strong unity of the Italian community, and we look forward to celebrating our wonderful culture in Scottsdale." Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., the grandchild of Salvatore Ferragamo, the fashion designer and founder of the renowned Italian luxury fashion house known for its shoes and accessories since 1927, will be this year's special guest. Ferragamo's grandson owns part of the family wine company out of Tuscany, Il Borro, a super Tuscan wine producer, and Pinino, a Brunello wine producer. There will be a Ferragamo wine station open throughout the entire weekend of the festival, offering wine bottles and tastings. Ferragamo Jr. will attend the event briefly on Sunday afternoon. The two-day festival will feature over 30 wines from various regions in Italy, new Valley food vendors such as Luna by Giada and Elephante, along with returning favorites like Pomo Pizzeria, Mamma Lucy, Marcellino Ristorante and several others. Merchant vendors such as Outrageous Oils, Italian Harmony and Mamma Letizia will offer a selection of curated Italian products at the event. Additional items available include ceramic pottery from Lome, handcrafted apparel from Tea n Lace, jewelry, leather handbags and original artwork. This year, the festival will feature two stages with live entertainment along the waterfront. Programming includes cooking demonstrations from the festival's title sponsor, Greco & Sons, music performances by Ripalta Bufo, Sima and her All-Star Quartet, the Steve Ansel band and various street performers, including a group of 15 flag twirlers from Asti, Italy. Children can also enjoy face painting and balloon making at the event. The festival provides three ticket packages. The Salvatore Ferragamo Experience is available for $99.99 during the presale period from now until Tuesday, Sept. 30, offering one general admission ticket, six wine tasting tickets, four Ferragamo wine tasting tickets, as well as a wine glass and lanyard. After the presale, the price increases to $125 and does not include the wine glass or lanyard. The “La Strada del Vino” package consists of one general admission ticket, six wine tasting tickets, a wine glass and a lanyard, priced at $49.99 for presale and $65 at the regular rate. General admission tickets cost $15 if purchased in advance and $25 at the door. Children aged 12 and under receive free entry to the festival. The celebrations don't stop there. Ferragamo Jr. will also have an exclusive meet and greet experience on Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside of the Ferragamo store in Scottsdale Fashion Square, right next to the festival. For $150, guests can personally meet Ferragamo Jr. and select a bottle of either the highly rated Super Tuscan Il Borro or the Brunello di Montalcino from Pinino. Following the festival, Ferragamo Jr. will host an exclusive dinner on Monday, Oct. 27 at Virtu Honest Craft in Scottsdale. Limited to 50 guests, this event will feature a seven-course menu paired with wines from Il Borro and Pinino, offering attendees the opportunity to dine alongside Ferragamo Jr. A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to the Italian Association in support of building a future Italian Culture Center. Tickets are priced at $400 per person. The Italian Association of Arizona wants to thank its title sponsor, Greco & Sons, and the City of Scottsdale, for making the event possible. For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.italianassociation.org/annual-italian-festival. About Italian Association: The Italian Association (IA) is a private, non-profit 501c (3), non-political membership organization for Arizona Italian and American communities interested in developing their understanding and knowledge of Italy. Guided by the Board of Directors and Advisory Council, the Italian Association's mission is to establish Arizona's premier Italian Cultural Center, a vibrant hub celebrating Italian heritage, traditions and community. SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much! ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE! JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.

In this episode of The Compendium, we delve into the terrifying true story of the Monster of Florence — the Italian serial killer who stalked lovers in the Tuscan hills for nearly two decades. Blending fact, obsession, and myth, we uncover how the unsolved case inspired Hannibal Lecter, entangled the Amanda Knox investigation, and haunted generations of Florence locals. This chilling journey through Italy's darkest legend exposes a mystery that still grips the world today. We give you just the Compendium, but if you want more, here are our resources: The Monster of Florence (2025) – Netflix limited series Monster of Florence – Wikipedia Host & Show Info Hosts: Kyle Risi & Adam Cox About: Kyle and Adam are more than just your hosts, they're your close friends sharing intriguing stories from tales from the darker corners of true crime, the annals of your forgotten history books, and the who's who of incredible people. Intro Music: Alice in dark Wonderland by Aleksey Chistilin Trailer Music: Stealy Move by Soundroll Community & Calls to Action ⭐ Review & follow on: Spotify & Apple Podcasts

Live from Boston, Scott welcomes to the stage Jason Mantzoukas, comedian Eugene Mirman, Malt Shop owner Bing Lujo, Scott's grandma Nana, Tuscan lawyer Italiano Jones, and financial guru Doug Gropes! Special thanks to the Wilbur Theatre! Originally recorded 06/13/2024. Don't forget to check out the Comedy Bang! Bang! Action Figures at shop.figurecollections.com and go to actionfigureseller.com for international purchases. If you want more great episodes of Comedy Bang! Bang! become a subscriber at comedybangbangworld.com. We have all of the past episodes from the archives, every live show, ad-free new episodes, and original shows like CBB Presents and Scott Hasn't Seen. Find more great Comedy Bang! Bang! merch at https://www.podswag.com/collections/comedy-bang-bang Get access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using this show link: https://siriusxm.com/cbb Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's Monday, Let's raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It's time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let's begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  We are back in Montepulciano for more reviews! and the owner's responses continue to steal the spotlight—a masterclass in polite, yet firm, indignation. Wineries where the owners defend their staff's "patience, education, and kindness" against every accusation of rudeness, and where a free tasting only covers one-third of the actual tasting—a simple misunderstanding due to a language barrier. In search of a less emotionally fraught experience, we moved on, only to encounter a tour guide more focused on flirting than fermentation, and a host that insults Americans We've officially determined that touring this region's cellars is less about the vintage and more about running a gauntlet of hilariously hostile hospitality, and frankly, we're loving every minute of it and hope you do too. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It's completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what else I have been up to. And most of all, please tell your friends about the podcast!   Slainte!  Find out more about my Wine Education Classes here Order Spanish Wine Bingo Game here Earn your Rioja Enthusiasts Certification here Music: WINE by Kēvens Official Video Follow me on Instagram!   Follow me on Twitter! Subscribe to my YouTube channel SIGN UP FOR EXPLORING THE WINE GLASS NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE ON iTUNES STITCHER | iTUNES | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | PODBEAN | AUDIBLE | BOOMPLAY Even ask your smart speaker to play Exploring the Wine Glass GIVE US A RATING AND REVIEW Thoughts or comments? Contact Lori at exploringthewineglass@gmail.com. Please support our sponsors Dracaena Wines - Our Wines + Your Moments + Great Memories Use code 'Explore' at checkout to receive 10% off your first order GET SPECIAL OFFERS FOR DRACAENA WINES

Bestselling author Frances Mayes comes in from the Tuscan sun to tell us about her favorite uncrowded corners of Italy, away from the crush of the country's top tourist destinations. And a certified beer judge explains what makes lager the world's most popular style of the ubiquitous beverage. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Autumn Magic: A Tuscan Vineyard Sparks Love and Dreams Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-10-11-07-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De herfst zon gaf de Toscaanse wijngaard een gouden glans en de bladeren kleurden in vurige tinten.En: The autumn sun gave the Tuscan vineyard a golden glow, and the leaves turned fiery shades.Nl: Hier, tussen de druivenranken, kwamen Sanne en Bram aan voor een tour.En: Here, amidst the vine rows, Sanne and Bram arrived for a tour.Nl: Sanne, met haar schetsboek in de hand, zocht inspiratie voor haar kunstscriptie.En: Sanne, with her sketchbook in hand, sought inspiration for her art thesis.Nl: Bram, altijd een goede vriend, hield haar gezelschap en genoot van de Italiaanse cultuur.En: Bram, always a good friend, kept her company and enjoyed the Italian culture.Nl: Ze ontmoetten Lars, de charmante sommelier, middenin de wijngaard.En: They met Lars, the charming sommelier, in the middle of the vineyard.Nl: Zijn ogen straalden als hij sprak over wijn en het leven tussen de druiven.En: His eyes sparkled as he spoke about wine and life among the grapes.Nl: "Welkom bij onze wijngaard," zei hij, een warme glimlach op zijn gezicht.En: "Welcome to our vineyard," he said, a warm smile on his face.Nl: De lucht was gevuld met de geur van net geperste druiven.En: The air was filled with the scent of freshly pressed grapes.Nl: Sanne voelde haar hart een sprongetje maken.En: Sanne felt her heart skip a beat.Nl: De tour begon en Lars leidde hen langs de rijen druiven.En: The tour began, and Lars guided them along the rows of grapes.Nl: Sanne luisterde aandachtig, maar haar gedachten dwaalden steeds af naar Lars' verhalen over zijn droom om ooit een eigen wijngaard te openen.En: Sanne listened attentively, but her thoughts kept drifting to Lars's stories about his dream of opening his own vineyard one day.Nl: Een verborgen avontuur vonkte in haar.En: A hidden adventure sparked within her.Nl: Die avond vierde de wijngaard Halloween.En: That evening, the vineyard celebrated Halloween.Nl: De boerderij was versierd met kaarsen en pompoenen.En: The farmhouse was decorated with candles and pumpkins.Nl: In deze sprookjesachtige setting onder de sterren besloot Sanne Lars te zoeken.En: In this fairy-tale setting under the stars, Sanne decided to find Lars.Nl: "Mag ik je even spreken?"En: "May I speak with you for a moment?"Nl: vroeg ze aarzelend.En: she asked hesitantly.Nl: Lars knikte en samen wandelden ze langs de wijngaard, de maan verlichtte hun pad.En: Lars nodded, and together they walked along the vineyard, the moon lighting their path.Nl: Bij een oude stenen muur, omarmd door de nachtelijke sereniteit, durfde Sanne haar verlangens te uiten.En: By an old stone wall, embraced by the serenity of the night, Sanne dared to express her desires.Nl: "Ik ben hier voor mijn studie," begon ze, "maar mijn hart verlangt naar iets meer."En: "I'm here for my studies," she began, "but my heart longs for something more."Nl: Lars glimlachte en zijn ogen straalden begrip.En: Lars smiled, and his eyes shone with understanding.Nl: Hij doorbrak de stilte.En: He broke the silence.Nl: "Ik voel hetzelfde, Sanne.En: "I feel the same, Sanne.Nl: Maar ik vreesde de rollen die we spelen."En: But I feared the roles we play."Nl: Onder de sterrenhemel deelden ze hun dromen en angsten.En: Under the starry sky, they shared their dreams and fears.Nl: Sanne vertelde over haar zoektocht naar inspiratie en Lars sprak over zijn ambities.En: Sanne spoke of her quest for inspiration, and Lars talked about his ambitions.Nl: Deze openhartigheid bracht hen dichterbij, hun harten vol hoop.En: This openness brought them closer, their hearts full of hope.Nl: De volgende dag voelde Sanne zich bevrijd.En: The next day, Sanne felt free.Nl: Ze wist wat ze wilde voor haar scriptie en, belangrijker nog, voor zichzelf.En: She knew what she wanted for her thesis and, more importantly, for herself.Nl: Ze vond de inspiratie in de passie van mensen zoals Lars.En: She found inspiration in the passion of people like Lars.Nl: Haar schetsboek was gevuld met nieuwe ideeën, vol van leven en liefde.En: Her sketchbook was filled with new ideas, full of life and love.Nl: Voordat ze vertrok, wist ze dat ze moest beloven terug te keren.En: Before she left, she knew she had to promise to return.Nl: "Zodra mijn studie voorbij is, kom ik terug," fluisterde ze tegen Lars.En: "As soon as my studies are finished, I'll come back," she whispered to Lars.Nl: En met die belofte vertrokken Sanne en Bram, de wijngaard achterlatend in de schittering van de herfst.En: And with that promise, Sanne and Bram departed, leaving the vineyard in the splendor of autumn.Nl: Lars bleef achter, maar hij was niet langer alleen.En: Lars stayed behind, but he was no longer alone.Nl: Geïnspireerd door Sanne's moed, wist hij dat het tijd was zijn eigen droom te volgen.En: Inspired by Sanne's courage, he knew it was time to follow his own dream.Nl: Beide harten, eens zoekend, vonden hun richting met de Toscaanse wijngaard als hun stille getuige.En: Both hearts, once searching, found their direction with the Tuscan vineyard as their silent witness. Vocabulary Words:autumn: herfstvineyard: wijngaardgolden: goudenglow: glansshades: tintenamidst: tussensketchbook: schetsboekinspiration: inspiratiethesis: scriptiesommelier: sommeliersparkled: straaldenscent: geurfreshly: netpressed: gepersteattentively: aandachtigdrifting: dwaaldenhidden: verborgenadventure: avontuursparked: vonktecandles: kaarsenhesitantly: aarzelendmoon: maanserenity: sereniteitdesires: verlangensquest: zoektochtambitions: ambitiesopenness: openhartigheidhope: hoopfulfilled: vervuldsplendor: schittering

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Unearthing Tuscany: The Hidden Treasure Beneath Olive Trees Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-10-11-07-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Nel cuore dell'autunno, gli alberi d'olivo ondeggiavano nel vento dolce e fresco delle colline toscane.En: In the heart of autumn, the olive trees swayed in the sweet and cool wind of the Tuscan hills.It: Le foglie d'argento brillavano sotto il sole dorato, stendendo lunghe ombre sulla terra.En: The silver leaves shone under the golden sun, casting long shadows on the ground.It: Uno scenario calmo e sereno, ma oggi qualcosa di straordinario stava per accadere.En: A calm and serene scene, but today something extraordinary was about to happen.It: Elena, una storica appassionata, camminava con attenzione tra le file di olivi.En: Elena, a passionate historian, walked carefully between the rows of olive trees.It: Il nonno le aveva sempre raccontato storie di tesori nascosti sotto questi alberi antichi.En: Her grandfather had always told her stories of treasures hidden beneath these ancient trees.It: Era determinata a dimostrare che non erano solo fantasticherie.En: She was determined to prove that they were not just fantasies.It: Marco, il contadino, la osservava da lontano.En: Marco, the farmer, watched her from a distance.It: Non credeva a queste storie, ma la speranza di un terremoto economico per la sua tenuta in difficoltà lo spingeva a non interrompere la ricerca di Elena.En: He did not believe these stories, but the hope of an economic earthquake for his struggling estate pushed him not to interrupt Elena's search.It: Mentre Elena scavava con cura vicino a uno degli alberi più vecchi, qualcosa di duro bloccò la pala.En: While Elena dug carefully near one of the oldest trees, something hard stopped the shovel.It: Con il cuore che batteva forte, si chinò per vedere di cosa si trattasse.En: With her heart pounding, she bent down to see what it was.It: Era un pezzo di metallo antico, un artefatto, perduto nel tempo.En: It was a piece of ancient metal, an artifact lost in time.It: Le notizie si diffusero velocemente.En: The news spread quickly.It: Giovanni, un collezionista con un interesse troppo grande per il denaro e troppo poco per la storia, arrivò in fretta.En: Giovanni, a collector with too much interest in money and too little in history, arrived in haste.It: "Dobbiamo fare un patto," propose a Elena e Marco con un sorriso ambiguo.En: "We must make a deal," he proposed to Elena and Marco with an ambiguous smile.It: "Io posso farvi guadagnare molto."En: "I can make you earn a lot."It: Ma Elena non era convinta.En: But Elena was not convinced.It: Si consultò con Marco, il quale, dopo riflettere, decise di fidarsi di lei.En: She consulted with Marco, who, after reflecting, decided to trust her.It: Giovanni diventava insistente, minacciando di coinvolgere le autorità se non fosse stato incluso.En: Giovanni became insistent, threatening to involve the authorities if he wasn't included.It: L'aria tra di loro era tesa come una corda di violino.En: The air between them was tense as a violin string.It: Ma nel profondo, Elena sapeva che doveva fare la cosa giusta.En: But deep down, Elena knew she had to do the right thing.It: "Non abbiamo bisogno dei tuoi piani," disse Giovanni con fermezza.En: "We don't need your plans," she said with firmness.It: Decisero di contattare loro stessi le autorità.En: They decided to contact the authorities themselves.It: Le autorità arrivarono e l'artefatto fu portato via per essere studiato, ma la scoperta portò fama alla zona.En: The authorities arrived, and the artifact was taken away to be studied, but the discovery brought fame to the area.It: Marco vide un nuovo inizio per la sua fattoria grazie all'arrivo di turisti e studiosi attratti dalla scoperta.En: Marco saw a new beginning for his farm thanks to the arrival of tourists and scholars attracted by the discovery.It: Elena si rese conto che la vera vittoria risiedeva nella protezione della storia, non nella gloria personale.En: Elena realized that the true victory lay in protecting history, not in personal glory.It: Anche Giovanni imparò una lezione.En: Even Giovanni learned a lesson.It: Il suo approccio egoistico non aveva portato nulla se non l'ostracismo.En: His selfish approach had brought nothing but ostracism.It: Elena e Marco divennero alleati, dimostrando che il lavoro di squadra e l'integrità vincono sempre sulle sole aspirazioni personali.En: Elena and Marco became allies, proving that teamwork and integrity always win over personal aspirations.It: E mentre il sole tramontava ancora una volta sulle colline toscane, il campo di olivi era più ricco che mai, non solo per la scoperta, ma per le nuove amicizie coltivate nel tempo.En: And as the sun set once again over the Tuscan hills, the olive field was richer than ever, not just for the discovery, but for the new friendships cultivated over time. Vocabulary Words:the historian: la storicato sway: ondeggiarethe leaf: la fogliato shine: brillarethe shadow: l'ombraextraordinary: straordinariothe treasure: il tesoroto prove: dimostrarethe fantasy: la fantasticheriathe earthquake: il terremototo struggle: avere difficoltàthe shovel: la palato pound: batterethe artifact: l'artefattoto insist: insistereambiguous: ambiguoto consult: consultareto threaten: minacciarethe authority: l'autoritàtense: tesothe string: la cordathe integrity: l'integritàto cultivate: coltivarethe fame: la famathe scholar: lo studiosoto attract: attrarreselfish: egoisticothe ostracism: l'ostracismothe ally: l'alleatopersonal aspirations: le aspirazioni personali

Hi there, happy Thursday! Recording this week's episode with John Bersani reminded me why I started Salt + Spine in the first place: to sit down with a cookbook author and glimpse their world. We're often recording in studio—or more often these days, virtually—and it's easy to miss the small details that make these conversations so alive.But there's something grounding about being welcomed into someone's home kitchen, hearing their stories as the dog runs past or a family member checks in to ask when we're leaving for lunch. It was a real treat to join John and his family for an afternoon in Chianti. And while recording al fresco may not have produced the crispest audio, it offered something you can't replicate in a studio: an honest glimpse into a life built around food, friendship, and place.I hope you enjoy our chat:The first thing I notice at John Bersani's home in Gaiole in Chianti is the view. I'm so enamored by the rolling hills dotted with vines and olive trees that I miss the driveway. Finally, I find the right entryway, am greeted by John, and we settle next to the pool to record our conversation. A lifelong cook and host, John built a career in business before turning toward what truly grounded him: food and community. His cookbook—20 Amici 40 Ricette: Twenty Friends, Forty Recipes—is not a chef's manifesto or a guide to Tuscan cuisine, but a love letter to the community he and his family have made there. Each chapter introduces a friend who's shaped his life in Italy, paired with one or two recipes that carry the imprint of that relationship.In our conversation, John talks about growing up in an Italian-American family in Syracuse, New York, where Sundays smelled like simmering sauce. He recalls his grandparents' small-town kitchens and the rituals that endured even after they left their old neighborhood for the suburbs. And he reflects on the years spent straddling two identities—American and Italian—and learning to see his adopted home from both sides of the table.We talk, too, about the rules of Italian cooking and how to bend them. About why Tuscan bread is famously unsalted. About the importance of shopping well. About how the right techniques transform a simple pasta into something magical.

Robbie Maynard, a seasoned interior designer with over three decades of experience in San Diego, California, joins us to reveal her remarkable transformation from PR novice to confidently landing features in House Beautiful, Forbes, and Martha Stewart Living.With refreshing candor, Robbie shares how she initially felt "petrified" when submitting her first pitch to editors. "I thought they wanted me to be a writer and make it sound wonderful," she admits, reflecting a common misconception among design professionals. Through consistent practice and expert guidance, she discovered that editors simply valued her design expertise, not her writing skills—a revelation that freed her to pursue major publication opportunities with confidence.The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Robbie discusses the evolution of her business strategy. After recognizing that her website showcased outdated Tuscan-style projects no longer aligned with current trends or her preferred design direction, she implemented strategic updates that transformed her client acquisition process. "I was getting a lot of people that wanted Tuscan... and I didn't really want that anymore," she explains, highlighting how targeted marketing attracts ideal clients.Perhaps most valuable is Robbie's perspective on client selection, gained through years of experience: "Every client is not your client." She now approaches initial consultations as mutual interviews rather than sales opportunities, ensuring better project outcomes and more satisfying professional relationships. This mindset shift represents a crucial evolution for designers looking to elevate their business.As the interior design industry continues to evolve, with traditional revenue streams disrupted by online retailers, Robbie shares her plans to adapt through specialized service packages focused on kitchen design and exploring alternative income sources like affiliate marketing. Her willingness to continuously reinvent her business approach offers inspiration for designers at any career stage.Ready to transform your own design business through strategic marketing and PR? Sign up for our Designer Discussions Academy at designerdiscussions.com and get personalized guidance from our team of experts.More on Robbie:https://www.robbieinteriors.com/https://www.instagram.com/robbieinterTransform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academyDesigner Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses. Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store. Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

It's hard to stand out in a field of giants, and when it comes to Tuscan wine, the landscape is populated by Titans. But Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, crafted from the Sangiovese grape planted around the tiny town of Montepulciano, has always managed to catch the eye of connoisseurs. From a Renaissance poet who declared it the king of all wines to the 20th-century legislators who named it alongside Brunello, Barolo, and Barbaresco as one of Italy's first four DOCGs, the quiet giant known as the “noble wine of Montepulciano” never fails to impress. In this episode of the Wine Enthusiast podcast, brought to you by Avignonesi Winery, writer-at-large and reviewer for Tuscany Danielle Callegari spoke with the operation's CEO and chief winemaker Matteo Giustiniani. Is there a guest you want us to interview? A topic you want us to cover? We want to hear from you! Email us at podcast@wineenthusiast.com. Remember to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. Go to WineEnthusiast.com for the latest beverage industry coverage and all the tools you need to bring your love of wine to life. And wait, there's more! Get over 70% OFF the original cover price by subscribing to Wine Enthusiast magazine today!    FOLLOW US: TikTok: @wineenthusiast Instagram: @wineenthusiast Facebook: @WineEnthusiast X: @WineEnthusiast

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Unexpected Spice: The Gelato Twist That Won Hearts Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-10-06-07-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Luca passava i pomeriggi nella sua gelateria, "Dolci Sogni", nel piccolo villaggio toscano di Montevico.En: Luca spent his afternoons in his gelateria, "Dolci Sogni", in the small Tuscan village of Montevico.It: Era un luogo speciale.En: It was a special place.It: Fuori, le stradine di ciottoli e i campi dorati facevano sembrare il villaggio come uscito da un dipinto.En: Outside, the cobblestone streets and golden fields made the village look like something out of a painting.It: Dentro, il negozio profumava di zucchero e spezie.En: Inside, the shop smelled of sugar and spices.It: Era il tempo del raccolto autunnale, un momento perfetto per il concorso "Miglior Gelato".En: It was the time of the autumn harvest, a perfect moment for the "Best Gelato" contest.It: Luca era pieno di energia e passione.En: Luca was full of energy and passion.It: Voleva vincere.En: He wanted to win.It: Aveva preparato sapori unici per impressionare i giudici: mele cotte, nocciola tostata e un segreto... un gelato alla cannella con un tocco di calore.En: He had prepared unique flavors to impress the judges: baked apples, toasted hazelnut, and a secret... a cinnamon ice cream with a touch of heat.It: Aveva già immaginato il momento in cui avrebbe vinto, ma qualcosa non andò come previsto.En: He had already imagined the moment when he would win, but something did not go as planned.It: Quel pomeriggio, Gianni, suo aiutante, si avvicinò preoccupato.En: That afternoon, Gianni, his assistant, approached him worriedly.It: "Luca, credo ci sia un problema con la cannella."En: "Luca, I think there's a problem with the cinnamon."It: Esaminando la cucina, scoprirono l'errore: Paolo, l'addetto agli ingredienti, aveva confuso la cannella con un peperoncino in polvere.En: Upon examining the kitchen, they discovered the error: Paolo, the ingredient handler, had confused cinnamon with chili powder.It: Ora il gelato era piccante.En: Now the ice cream was spicy.It: Luca era in crisi.En: Luca was in crisis.It: Sostituire il gelato sarebbe stato sicuro, ma una parte di lui era affascinata dall'idea di stupire i giudici con questo nuovo sapore.En: Replacing the ice cream would have been safe, but a part of him was intrigued by the idea of surprising the judges with this new flavor.It: Dopo una lunga riflessione, decise.En: After a long reflection, he decided.It: Avrebbe servito il gelato piccante.En: He would serve the spicy ice cream.It: "Facciamo di necessità virtù," disse con un sorriso incerto.En: "Let's make a virtue out of necessity," he said with an uncertain smile.It: Il giorno del concorso arrivò.En: The day of the contest arrived.It: La gelateria era piena di gente.En: The gelateria was full of people.It: Giudici e spettatori osservavano curiosi mentre Luca, con una sciocca di creatività, presentava il suo "esperimento".En: Judges and spectators watched curiously as Luca, with a dash of creativity, presented his "experiment."It: Quando i giudici assaggiarono, i loro occhi si spalancarono per la sorpresa.En: When the judges tasted it, their eyes widened in surprise.It: C'erano mormorii tra la folla.En: There were murmurs among the crowd.It: Ma Luca, con un gesto fiero, spiegò l'accaduto e il suo desiderio di osare.En: But Luca, with a proud gesture, explained what had happened and his desire to dare.It: Alla fine, i giudici si scambiarono sguardi e sorrisi.En: In the end, the judges exchanged looks and smiles.It: "Per il coraggio e la creatività, assegniamo a Luca una menzione speciale."En: "For courage and creativity, we award Luca a special mention."It: L'applauso fu caloroso.En: The applause was warm.It: Luca realizzò che non doveva temere i passi falsi, ma accoglierli.En: Luca realized that he should not fear missteps, but embrace them.It: Era contento.En: He was happy.It: Non aveva vinto il primo premio, ma aveva guadagnato una lezione preziosa e la fiducia nella sua capacità di trasformare gli imprevisti in opportunità.En: He hadn't won the first prize, but he had gained a valuable lesson and confidence in his ability to turn the unexpected into opportunities.It: Guardando il tramonto sulla campagna toscana, Luca capiva che ogni sfida poteva portare a nuovi, inaspettati successi.En: Watching the sunset over the Tuscan countryside, Luca understood that every challenge could lead to new, unexpected successes. Vocabulary Words:the gelateria: la gelateriaafternoon: pomeriggiospecial: specialethe cobblestone streets: le stradine di ciottoligolden: doratito seem: sembrarethe painting: il dipintoto smell: profumarethe spice: la speziathe harvest: il raccoltothe contest: il concorsoto impress: impressionarethe judges: i giudicithe baked apples: le mele cotteto imagine: immaginarethe crisis: la crisithe reflection: la riflessioneto serve: servireto dare: osarethe courage: il coraggiothe creativity: la creativitàthe mention: la menzionethe applause: l'applausothe missteps: i passi falsithe confidence: la fiduciathe sunset: il tramontothe countryside: la campagnachallenge: sfidaunexpected: inaspettatisuccesses: successi

Every week for The Ultimate Guide on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world.This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give his recommendations for three different Tuscan cities!

Send us a textFrom Japanese kitchens to Tuscan farmhouses, today we step into the world's kitchens, and the psychology behind how they're designed. We unpack what Japan's precision, France's layered romance, Scandinavia's light-filled calm, Germany's engineered order, Italy's tactile luxury, and North America's hosting-first mindset can teach you about your own space. You'll learn the five make-or-break design factors (flow, storage, light, materials, details) and how to borrow country-specific ideas - like zoning tools to tasks, letting natural light lead, mixing old-world pieces with modern lines, and choosing hardware that feels as good as it looks. This is design with a PARO lens: grounded in neuroaesthetics, centered on everyday living, and tailored to help your kitchen support better cooking, connection, and well-being. Listen in for practical moves you can implement this week. Key TakeawaysThe 5 foundations: nail flow, storage zones, layered lighting, durable/tactile materials, and quality touch-point hardware.Japan: reduce visual noise; zone tools to tasks; embrace ma (purposeful negative space).France: mix old + new; open shelving, patina, marble/stone; prioritize quality over quantity.Scandinavia: maximize natural light; lighten materials (oak/pine); create calm, social nooks.Germany: invest in engineered organization (inner drawers, tall pullouts, corner solutions) for effortless ergonomics.Italy: let stone lead the palette; design for hosting and shared prep; balance rustic + modern.North America: treat the kitchen as a multi-use hub; use scullery/butler's pantry intentionally (define what lives where).This week's micro-moves: swap in warm dimmable bulbs, add one drawer insert per zone, edit 10 unused tools, and upgrade one daily-touch handle or faucet.Get on teh waitlist and get 15% off codeSupport the showWebsite: https://www.yourparo.com/Resources: Free Living Room Know How. Free Bathroom Serenity Guide. Get the Free Guides Here! https://www.yourparo.com/free-guides Digital Course: Design Your Home for Better Living https://www.yourparo.com/course

"Christine and David visit Janelle in North Carolina to celebrate the purchase of her new flower farm property. Kody and Robyn discuss their now monogamist relationship and the possibility of bringing in a new wife. Meri dips her toe back into the dating world and heads to a speed dating event."Move over Taylor Frankie Paul, Parowan has a new hot bachelorette on the scene: Meri Brown. Meri and Just Jenn head to Salt Lake for a round of speed dating, while Kody and Robyn go on a date with a dessert of licking. David "No Butt" Woolley Brown is a trackstar, Janelle is sick of his shit and Christine is going full Tuscan. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠– and while you're at it, feel free to peruse our Shit Talk Shop!And if you're the ultimate trash, join us on ⁠Patreon!

Fluent Fiction - Italian: From Nervousness to Narratives: Luca's Triumph in Tuscany Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-09-25-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Luca sedeva nel caffè torrefazione, il profumo di chicchi di caffè appena tostati riempiva l'aria.En: Luca sat in the caffè torrefazione, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans filled the air.It: Era un luogo accogliente a Firenze, con un'atmosfera calda e rustica.En: It was a cozy place in Firenze, with a warm and rustic atmosphere.It: Dal finestrino accanto al suo tavolo, entrava una luce dorata, mentre l'autunno dipingeva la città con colori vivaci.En: Through the window next to his table, golden light came in, as autumn painted the city with vibrant colors.It: Il rumore leggero delle conversazioni intorno era un suono rassicurante.En: The light noise of conversations around was a comforting sound.It: Luca aveva un importante compito per la classe di letteratura: una presentazione che raccontava una famosa storia toscana.En: Luca had an important task for his literature class: a presentation that recounted a famous Tuscan story.It: Era entusiasta del compito, ma l'idea di parlare davanti ai suoi compagni lo terrorizzava.En: He was excited about the task, but the idea of speaking in front of his classmates terrified him.It: "E se mi dimentico le parole?En: "What if I forget the words?It: E se mi perdo a metà strada?En: What if I lose track halfway through?"It: ", pensava.En: he thought.It: A quel punto arrivò Gianna, la sua amica fidata.En: At that moment, Gianna, his trusted friend, arrived.It: "Luca, stai calmo," disse lei con un sorriso.En: "Luca, stay calm," she said with a smile.It: "Possiamo esercitarci insieme.En: "We can practice together.It: Sei un grande narratore!"En: You're a great storyteller!"It: Luca annuì, sorseggiando il suo espresso preferito per calmare i nervi.En: Luca nodded, sipping his favorite espresso to calm his nerves.It: Gianna era sempre lì per supportarlo.En: Gianna was always there to support him.It: Con il suo aiuto, Luca iniziò a provare.En: With her help, Luca began to practice.It: Gianna ascoltava con attenzione e ogni tanto forniva qualche consiglio.En: Gianna listened attentively and occasionally offered some advice.It: "Magari cerca di fare una pausa qui," suggerì indicando dei punti nel testo.En: "Maybe try to pause here," she suggested, pointing out some spots in the text.It: Dopo diverse ripetizioni, Luca si sentiva un po' più sicuro.En: After several repetitions, Luca felt a bit more confident.It: Ma il dubbio rimaneva.En: But the doubt remained.It: Marco, un suo compagno di classe, passò di lì.En: Marco, a classmate of his, passed by.It: Guardò Luca con un sorriso scettico.En: He looked at Luca with a skeptical smile.It: "Sei sicuro di farcela domani?"En: "Are you sure you'll make it tomorrow?"It: chiese con un tono beffardo.En: he asked with a mocking tone.It: Le parole di Marco fecero tremare Luca, ma con uno sguardo fiducioso da Gianna, Luca decise di crederci.En: Marco's words made Luca tremble, but with an encouraging look from Gianna, Luca decided to believe in himself.It: Il giorno della presentazione, il caffè torrefazione era il luogo scelto per l'occasione intima.En: On the day of the presentation, the caffè torrefazione was the chosen place for the intimate occasion.It: Luca si alzò al centro della sala.En: Luca stood up in the center of the room.It: Mani sudate e cuore a mille, cominciò a parlare.En: With sweaty hands and a racing heart, he began to speak.It: All'inizio la voce tremava, e inciampò in alcune parole.En: At first, his voice trembled, and he stumbled over some words.It: Gianna, seduta in prima fila, gli fece un cenno di incoraggiamento.En: Gianna, sitting in the front row, gave him a nod of encouragement.It: Il suo sorriso era la forza di cui aveva bisogno.En: Her smile was the strength he needed.It: Con rinnovata fiducia, Luca continuò, la sua passione per la storia vibrava nelle sue parole.En: With renewed confidence, Luca continued, his passion for the story resonating in his words.It: Raccontò con energia, catturando l'attenzione dei suoi compagni.En: He spoke with energy, capturing his classmates' attention.It: La presentazione finì con un applauso caloroso.En: The presentation ended with warm applause.It: Luca sorrise grato, realizzando di aver superato le sue paure.En: Luca smiled gratefully, realizing he had overcome his fears.It: Persino Marco fece un cenno di approvazione.En: Even Marco gave a nod of approval.It: Per Luca, significava aver conquistato non solo se stesso, ma anche la stima dei suoi compagni.En: For Luca, it meant he had conquered not only himself but also the esteem of his companions.It: Tornando al suo tavolo, Gianna gli diede un grande abbraccio.En: Returning to his table, Gianna gave him a big hug.It: Aveva creduto in lui fin dall'inizio.En: She had believed in him from the start.It: Alla fine, Luca comprese che la sua passione per il racconto poteva brillare nonostante le sue paure.En: In the end, Luca understood that his passion for storytelling could shine through despite his fears.It: L'odore del caffè, il calore dell'autunno e il supporto degli amici erano stati la sua ricetta per il successo.En: The smell of coffee, the warmth of autumn, and the support of friends were his recipe for success. Vocabulary Words:the aroma: il profumothe beans: i chicchicozy: accoglienteatmosphere: l'atmosferagolden: doratato paint: dipingerevibrant: vivacilight noise: il rumore leggerotask: il compitoliterature: la letteraturatrusted: fidatato nod: annuireskeptical: scetticomocking: beffardoto tremble: tremareto stumble: inciampareto resonate: vibrareapproval: l'approvazioneto realize: realizzareesteem: la stimacompanion: il compagnograteful: gratoto overcome: superarescent: l'odoresupport: il supportopresentation: la presentazioneencouragement: l'incoraggiamentosweaty: sudateto capture: catturareapplause: l'applauso

Father Tuscan preaches the homily on the traditional 15th Sunday after Pentecost.

Father Tuscan preaches the homily on the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Chat with the cook and author (and member of the Guinness dynasty) who lives in Tuscany and wants to share the secrets of good Tuscan cooking in her book ‘Winter in Tuscany: Cosy Recipes and the ‘Quanto Basta' Way' (published by Thames & Hudson)

Things are ok, struggling will get worse, who wants to break cards ? Spend time wit those you love, when you break a promise, to be a spy.   Nxt, deep cover, can the boys be replicated ? Stick, invasion, platonic, chief of war, dark matter, liaison,  calls, Dr death, the wild ones.   Blueberry donut holes, creamy Tuscan chicken bake, Italian grinder wraps , bbq chicken rice bowls, easy fish taco, blueberry pancake breakfast burrito, lazy girl lunch, healthy lasagna soup.   Happy Tuesday stars

COSINESS NEVER GOES OUT OF FASHION. Antonio Monfreda is an Italian art director and curator who has become a defining figure in the worlds of design, photography, and art direction. As international editor of Martina Mondadori's Cabana Magazine since 2016, from the very first issue he turned his talent to the photography of interiors and lifestyle. Monfreda's new book Tuscan Rooms: Interiors from the Heartland of the Renaissance, published by Rizzoli International Publications and Cabana, is an exclusive look into Tuscan interiors that has the hallmarks of Cabana Magazine's coverage of remarkable, eclectic, and dramatic spaces. “Tuscany is the biggest garden of Italy” “It's as if everything was there since ever” “Recently I discovered that the word ARTISAN has inside it the word ART!! Like an artist!!”

Latch your steamer trunk and press your travel slacks, as Trixie and Katya summon you for a grand tour through the jeweled harbors of RuPaul's Drag Race Season 7, Episodes 9 and 10. Like discerning aesthetes adrift upon the sapphire sea, they linger in reverie over the operatic revels of the Divine Comedy challenge, then recline in first-class velvet banquettes to consider, with equal parts mirth and melancholy, the metamorphic splendor of the makeover episode. Their discourse gleams with the intricacy of freshly-blown Murano glass, refracting triumphs radiant as a Tuscan dawn and humiliations heavy as an Amalfi dusk. Let your eyes and ears wander as their recollections drift like perfumed zephyrs along the cliffs of the Cinque Terre. Sit back, relax, and let their reminiscences unfold as an intoxicating odyssey stitched from myth, memory, and the gilded embroidery of glamour. If you're thinking about GLP-1s for weight loss, but don't know if they're right for you—Ro makes it simple to find out and get started. Go to https://Ro.co/BALD to see if you qualify. If you're planning a trip this year, consider hosting your home on Airbnb while you're away. Your home might be worth more than you think! Find out how much at https://Airbnb.com/host This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at ⁠⁠https://Betterhelp.com/BALD⁠⁠ and get on your way to being your best self! Get your gut going and sdupport a balanced gut microbiome with Ritual's Synbiotic+. Get 25% off your first month at https://Ritual.com/BALD Visit ⁠https://gemini.google/students⁠ to learn more about Google Gemini and sign up. Terms apply. Follow Trixie: @TrixieMattel Follow Katya: @Katya_Zamo To watch the podcast on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/TrixieKatyaYT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out our official YouTube Clips Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/TrixieAndKatyaClipsYT⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Don't forget to follow the podcast for free wherever you're listening or by using this link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you want to support the show, and get all the episodes ad-free go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thebaldandthebeautiful.supercast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you like the show, telling a friend about it would be amazing! You can text, email, Tweet, or send this link to a friend: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out future Live Podcast Shows, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://trixieandkatyalive.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To order your copy of our book, "Working Girls", go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://workinggirlsbook.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To check out the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs, CA: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.trixiemotel.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen Anywhere! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/thebaldandthebeautifulpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   Follow Trixie: Official Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.trixiemattel.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@trixie⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter (X): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/trixiemattel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   Follow Katya: Official Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.welovekatya.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@katya_zamo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/welovekatya/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/katya_zamo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter (X): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/katya_zamo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    #TrixieMattel #KatyaZamo #BaldBeautiful Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fluent Fiction - Italian: A Tuscan Dream in a Bottle: Luca's Bold Wine Experiment Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-09-03-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Nel cuore della campagna toscana, in un pomeriggio d'autunno, il sole dorato si rifletteva sulle colline ondulate.En: In the heart of the Tuscan countryside, on an autumn afternoon, the golden sun reflected off the rolling hills.It: File precise di viti si allungavano all'infinito, ciascuna carica di grappoli maturi pronti per la vendemmia.En: Precise rows of vines stretched endlessly, each laden with ripe clusters ready for the harvest.It: Era tempo di festa, la Vendemmia Festival, un periodo di celebrazione e fatica, dove il sudore si mescolava alla speranza del futuro vino.En: It was a time of celebration, the Vendemmia Festival, a period of festivity and hard work, where sweat mixed with the hope of future wine.It: Luca lavorava in una piccola vigna a conduzione familiare.En: Luca worked in a small family-run vineyard.It: Era un giovane diligente, con mani forti e cuore appassionato.En: He was a diligent young man, with strong hands and a passionate heart.It: Amava la tradizione vitivinicola della sua famiglia, ma nel suo cuore covava un sogno segreto: creare il proprio vino, qualcosa di nuovo e straordinario.En: He loved his family's winemaking tradition, but in his heart, there was a secret dream: to create his own wine, something new and extraordinary.It: Ogni giorno Luca lavorava con dedizione, curando le viti come se fossero proprie.En: Every day Luca worked with dedication, tending the vines as if they were his own.It: Ma dentro di sé sentiva una voce che lo spingeva a sperimentare.En: But within him, he felt a voice urging him to experiment.It: Aveva idee, visioni di sapori diversi che danzavano nella sua mente.En: He had ideas, visions of different flavors that danced in his mind.It: Purtroppo, Carlo, il proprietario della vigna, era scettico.En: Unfortunately, Carlo, the owner of the vineyard, was skeptical.It: Non amava le idee stravaganti.En: He did not like extravagant ideas.It: "La tradizione è tutto," diceva spesso Carlo.En: "Tradition is everything," Carlo often said.It: Tuttavia, Luca non si scoraggiava.En: Nevertheless, Luca was not discouraged.It: Decise di agire in segreto.En: He decided to act in secret.It: Usando le sue conoscenze sui vitigni locali, cominciò a raccogliere piccole quantità di uve particolari, nascondendole in un angolo della cantina.En: Using his knowledge of local grape varieties, he began collecting small amounts of particular grapes, hiding them in a corner of the cellar.It: Iniziò a produrre una piccola quantità di vino.En: He started to produce a small quantity of wine.It: Ogni sera, controllava il suo piccolo segreto, mescolando con cura e aspettando.En: Every evening, he checked his little secret, blending carefully and waiting.It: Era una fatica che amava, una sfida che abbracciava con speranza.En: It was work he loved, a challenge he embraced with hope.It: Il giorno della festa si avvicinava.En: The day of the festival was approaching.It: La cantina era in pieno fermento, gli odori dell'uva e del mosto riempivano l'aria festosa.En: The cellar was in full swing, the smells of grapes and must filled the festive air.It: Luca era teso.En: Luca was tense.It: Sapeva che la sua opera nascosta sarebbe stata scoperta prima o poi.En: He knew that his hidden work would be discovered sooner or later.It: E così accadde.En: And so it happened.It: Durante la Vendemmia Festival, Carlo scese in cantina e scoprì il progetto segreto di Luca.En: During the Vendemmia Festival, Carlo went down to the cellar and discovered Luca's secret project.It: "Che cos'è questo?"En: "What is this?"It: chiese con tono severo.En: he asked in a stern tone.It: Luca, col cuore in gola, spiegò con passione la sua idea, il desiderio di provare qualcosa di nuovo.En: Luca, with his heart in his throat, passionately explained his idea, the desire to try something new.It: "Ho usato l'uva del nostro territorio, ma con un tocco diverso," disse sperando nella comprensione del suo capo.En: "I used grapes from our land, but with a different touch," he said, hoping for his boss's understanding.It: Carlo assaggiò il vino con scetticismo.En: Carlo tasted the wine with skepticism.It: Ma poi, qualcosa cambiò nel suo sguardo.En: But then, something changed in his gaze.It: Il sapore unico di quelle poche bottiglie lo colpì.En: The unique flavor of those few bottles struck him.It: Era nuovo, fresco, ma rispettava la tradizione.En: It was new, fresh, yet respected tradition.It: "Questo... questo ha potenziale," ammise infine Carlo, con un sorriso di sorpresa.En: "This... this has potential," Carlo finally admitted, with a smile of surprise.It: La festa continuò, ma per Luca era l'inizio di una nuova era.En: The festival continued, but for Luca, it was the beginning of a new era.It: Aveva conquistato la fiducia del padrone con il semplice gusto della sua invenzione.En: He had won the master's trust with the simple taste of his invention.It: La sua fiducia era cresciuta.En: His confidence had grown.It: Non era solo un sognatore, ma un creatore.En: He was not just a dreamer, but a creator.It: Luca camminò tra le vigne nella luce calda del tramonto, sapendo che ora, con il rispetto di Carlo, poteva lavorare per qualcosa di suo.En: Luca walked among the vines in the warm glow of the sunset, knowing that now, with Carlo's respect, he could work for something of his own.It: Quel giorno, tra la musica e la celebrazione della Vendemmia, nacque una promessa di collaborazione.En: That day, amid the music and celebration of the Vendemmia, a promise of collaboration was born.It: Luca non solo aveva vinto la sua battaglia, ma aveva gettato le basi per un futuro che univa tradizione e innovazione, nel cuore pulsante della Toscana.En: Luca not only won his battle, but he laid the foundation for a future that united tradition and innovation in the beating heart of Tuscany. Vocabulary Words:the vineyard: la vignathe countryside: la campagnathe hills: le collinethe grapes: l'uvathe vine: la vitethe cellar: la cantinathe harvest: la vendemmiathe winemaking: la vitivinicolathe festival: la festaripe: maturoto reflect: riflettersiladen: caricothe cluster: il grappolothe sweat: il sudorethe hope: la speranzadiligent: diligentepassionate: appassionatoextraordinary: straordinarioto experiment: sperimentareto tend: curarethe flavor: il saporethe vision: la visionethe owner: il proprietarioskeptical: scetticoextravagant: stravaganteto hide: nascondereto blend: mescolarethe potential: il potenzialeto embrace: abbracciarethe promise: la promessa

In this continuation of their conversation, Chris Maffeo interviews Federico Riezzo about modern cocktail classics, Villa Mamo's terroir-driven approach, and scaling cocktail culture. Federico reflects on cocktail legends like Douglas Ankrah and the era that created enduring drinks like the Pornstar Martini, Penicillin , and Breakfast Martini, while exploring why new cocktails struggle to achieve lasting status in today's social media environment.Learn about Villa Mamo, Federico's renovated 1786 Tuscan farmhouse and boutique hospitality venue, where he collaborates with local foragers to create hyper-local botanical cocktails using terroir-driven ingredients. Discover Federico's lower ABV cocktail philosophy that encourages extended social drinking experiences and better guest engagement.Chris and Federico examine the cocktail industry's workforce challenges, discussing how modern bartenders increasingly prioritize technical innovation over essential hospitality skills like guest reading and relationship building.Perfect for bar managers, hospitality professionals, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone interested in sustainable cocktail culture, terroir-driven mixology, and the future of the bar industry.Timestamps :00:00 From Douglas Ankrah's Porn Star Martini to the other Modern Classics08:15 Cocktail Culture Gap Analysis16:30 Villa Mamo's Terroir Approach24:45 Lower ABV Philosophy and Social Drinking32:20 Industry Workforce Challenges40:04 Future of Hospitality and Scaling Culture

⸻ Podcast: Redefining Society and Technologyhttps://redefiningsocietyandtechnologypodcast.com _____ Newsletter: Musing On Society And Technology https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/musing-on-society-technology-7079849705156870144/_____ Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/OYBjDHKhZOM_____ My Website: https://www.marcociappelli.com_____________________________This Episode's SponsorsBlackCloak provides concierge cybersecurity protection to corporate executives and high-net-worth individuals to protect against hacking, reputational loss, financial loss, and the impacts of a corporate data breach.BlackCloak:  https://itspm.ag/itspbcweb_____________________________A Musing On Society & Technology Newsletter Written By Marco Ciappelli | Read by TAPE3The First Smartphone Was a Transistor Radio — How a Tiny Device Rewired Youth Culture and Predicted Our Digital FutureA new transmission from Musing On Society and Technology Newsletter, by Marco CiappelliI've been collecting vintage radios lately—just started, really—drawn to their analog souls in ways I'm still trying to understand. Each one I find reminds me of a small, battered transistor radio from my youth. It belonged to my father, and before that, probably my grandfather. The leather case was cracked, the antenna wobbled, and the dial drifted if you breathed on it wrong. But when I was sixteen, sprawled across my bedroom floor in that small town near Florence with homework scattered around me, this little machine was my portal to everything that mattered.Late at night, I'd start by chasing the latest hits and local shows on FM, but then I'd venture into the real adventure—tuning through the static on AM and shortwave frequencies. Voices would emerge from the electromagnetic soup—music from London, news from distant capitals, conversations in languages I couldn't understand but somehow felt. That radio gave me something I didn't even know I was missing: the profound sense of belonging to a world much bigger than my neighborhood, bigger than my small corner of Tuscany.What I didn't realize then—what I'm only now beginning to understand—is that I was holding the first smartphone in human history.Not literally, of course. But functionally? Sociologically? That transistor radio was the prototype for everything that followed: the first truly personal media device that rewired how young people related to the world, to each other, and to the adults trying to control both.But to understand why the transistor radio was so revolutionary, we need to trace radio's remarkable journey through the landscape of human communication—a journey that reveals patterns we're still living through today.When Radio Was the Family HearthBefore my little portable companion, radio was something entirely different. In the 1930s, radio was furniture—massive, wooden, commanding the living room like a shrine to shared experience. Families spent more than four hours a day listening together, with radio ownership reaching nearly 90 percent by 1940. From American theaters that wouldn't open until after "Amos 'n Andy" to British families gathered around their wireless sets, from RAI broadcasts bringing opera into Tuscan homes—entire communities synchronized their lives around these electromagnetic rituals.Radio didn't emerge in a media vacuum, though. It had to find its place alongside the dominant information medium of the era: newspapers. The relationship began as an unlikely alliance. In the early 1920s, newspapers weren't threatened by radio—they were actually radio's primary boosters, creating tie-ins with broadcasts and even owning stations. Detroit's WWJ was owned by The Detroit News, initially seen as "simply another press-supported community service."But then came the "Press-Radio War" of 1933-1935, one of the first great media conflicts of the modern age. Newspapers objected when radio began interrupting programs with breaking news, arguing that instant news delivery would diminish paper sales. The 1933 Biltmore Agreement tried to restrict radio to just two five-minute newscasts daily—an early attempt at what we might now recognize as media platform regulation.Sound familiar? The same tensions we see today between traditional media and digital platforms, between established gatekeepers and disruptive technologies, were playing out nearly a century ago. Rather than one medium destroying the other, they found ways to coexist and evolve—a pattern that would repeat again and again.By the mid-1950s, when the transistor was perfected, radio was ready for its next transformation.The Real Revolution Was Social, Not TechnicalThis is where my story begins, but it's also where radio's story reaches its most profound transformation. The transistor radio didn't just make radio portable—it fundamentally altered the social dynamics of media consumption and youth culture itself.Remember, radio had spent its first three decades as a communal experience. Parents controlled what the family heard and when. But transistor radios shattered this control structure completely, arriving at precisely the right cultural moment. The post-WWII baby boom had created an unprecedented youth population with disposable income, and rock and roll was exploding into mainstream culture—music that adults often disapproved of, music that spoke directly to teenage rebellion and independence.For the first time in human history, young people had private, personal access to media. They could take their music to bedrooms, to beaches, anywhere adults weren't monitoring. They could tune into stations playing Chuck Berry, Elvis, and Little Richard without parental oversight—and in many parts of Europe, they could discover the rebellious thrill of pirate radio stations broadcasting rock and roll from ships anchored just outside territorial waters, defying government regulations and cultural gatekeepers alike. The transistor radio became the soundtrack of teenage autonomy, the device that let youth culture define itself on its own terms.The timing created a perfect storm: pocket-sized technology collided with a new musical rebellion, creating the first "personal media bubble" in human history—and the first generation to grow up with truly private access to the cultural forces shaping their identity.The parallels to today's smartphone revolution are impossible to ignore. Both devices delivered the same fundamental promise: the ability to carry your entire media universe with you, to access information and entertainment on your terms, to connect with communities beyond your immediate physical environment.But there's something we've lost in translation from analog to digital. My generation with transistor radios had to work for connection. We had to hunt through static, tune carefully, wait patiently for distant signals to emerge from electromagnetic chaos. We learned to listen—really listen—because finding something worthwhile required skill, patience, and analog intuition.This wasn't inconvenience; it was meaning-making. The harder you worked to find something, the more it mattered when you found it. The more skilled you became at navigating radio's complex landscape, the richer your discoveries became.What the Transistor Radio Taught Us About TomorrowRadio's evolution illustrates a crucial principle that applies directly to our current digital transformation: technologies don't replace each other—they find new ways to matter. Printing presses didn't become obsolete when radio arrived. Radio adapted when television emerged. Today, radio lives on in podcasts, streaming services, internet radio—the format transformed, but the essential human need it serves persists.When I was sixteen, lying on that bedroom floor with my father's radio pressed to my ear, I was doing exactly what teenagers do today with their smartphones: using technology to construct identity, to explore possibilities, to imagine myself into larger narratives.The medium has changed; the human impulse remains constant. The transistor radio taught me that technology's real power isn't in its specifications or capabilities—it's in how it reshapes the fundamental social relationships that define our lives.Every device that promises connection is really promising transformation: not just of how we communicate, but of who we become through that communication. The transistor radio was revolutionary not because it was smaller or more efficient than tube radios, but because it created new forms of human agency and autonomy.Perhaps that's the most important lesson for our current moment of digital transformation. As we worry about AI replacing human creativity, social media destroying real connection, or smartphones making us antisocial, radio's history suggests a different possibility: technologies tend to find their proper place in the ecosystem of human needs, augmenting rather than replacing what came before.As Marshall McLuhan understood, "the medium is the message"—to truly understand what's happening to us in this digital age, we need to understand the media themselves, not just the content they carry. And that's exactly the message I'll keep exploring in future newsletters—going deeper into how we can understand the media to understand the messages, and what that means for our hybrid analog-digital future.The frequency is still there, waiting. You just have to know how to tune in.__________ End of transmission.

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Tuscan Dreams: Luca's Artistic Journey and Newfound Love Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-08-29-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Nel cuore dell'estate, il sole splendeva su una villa toscana, un luogo magico ai confini di Firenze.En: In the heart of summer, the sun shone upon a villa toscana, a magical place on the outskirts of Firenze.It: Qui, una nuova avventura stava per cominciare per Luca.En: Here, a new adventure was about to begin for Luca.It: Era la prima volta che lasciava il suo paese per frequentare un collegio famoso in tutta Italia.En: It was the first time he was leaving his hometown to attend a boarding school famous throughout Italia.It: Il giardino era pieno di fiori profumati e il suono delle cicale riempiva l'aria calda.En: The garden was full of fragrant flowers, and the sound of cicadas filled the warm air.It: Luca, timido ma curioso, stava ancora cercando di ambientarsi.En: Luca, shy but curious, was still trying to adjust.It: Era un artista nel cuore, sognando segretamente di diventare pittore.En: He was an artist at heart, secretly dreaming of becoming a painter.It: Con lui, c'era Marco, il suo nuovo compagno di stanza.En: With him was Marco, his new roommate.It: Marco era una persona solare e aperta, sempre pronto ad aiutare.En: Marco was a sunny and open person, always ready to help.It: "Hai sentito dell'associazione di arte qui?"En: "Have you heard about the art association here?"It: gli chiese una sera, mentre stavano sistemando le loro cose.En: he asked one evening, while they were organizing their things.It: "L'associazione di arte?"En: "The art association?"It: rispose Luca, con un filo di nervosismo nella voce.En: responded Luca, with a hint of nervousness in his voice.It: "Sì, dovresti andarci.En: "Yes, you should go.It: Potresti conoscere persone come te," suggerì Marco con un sorriso.En: You might meet people like yourself," suggested Marco with a smile.It: E così Luca decise di unirsi al club d'arte.En: And so Luca decided to join the art club.It: Mentre camminava verso la sala destinata agli incontri, i suoi pensieri erano un groviglio di emozioni: eccitazione, ansia, speranza.En: As he walked toward the room designated for the meetings, his thoughts were a tangle of emotions: excitement, anxiety, hope.It: Al momento dell'incontro, vide Giulia.En: At the meeting, he saw Giulia.It: Lei era circondata da un gruppo di persone, sorridendo e raccontando storie.En: She was surrounded by a group of people, smiling and telling stories.It: Giulia era conosciuta per la sua passione per la letteratura, amava raccontare storie che catturavano l'immaginazione di chiunque.En: Giulia was known for her passion for literature; she loved telling stories that captured the imagination of everyone.It: Luca si avvicinò piano piano, titubante.En: Luca approached slowly, hesitant.It: Marco, vedendo il suo amico esitante, gli diede una lieve spinta in avanti.En: Marco, seeing his friend hesitate, gave him a gentle push forward.It: Giulia si voltò verso di lui e gli rivolse un caloroso sorriso.En: Giulia turned towards him and greeted him with a warm smile.It: "Ciao, sei nuovo qui?En: "Hi, are you new here?It: Io sono Giulia," disse con calore.En: I'm Giulia," she said warmly.It: "Sì, sono Luca," rispose, cercando di nascondere il proprio imbarazzo.En: "Yes, I'm Luca," he replied, trying to hide his embarrassment.It: Così iniziò una nuova amicizia.En: So began a new friendship.It: Con il passare dei giorni, Luca e Giulia si avvicinarono sempre di più.En: As the days passed, Luca and Giulia grew closer.It: Giulia era affascinata dalla visione artistica di Luca, mentre lui era incantato dalla passione di Giulia per le storie.En: Giulia was fascinated by Luca's artistic vision, while he was enchanted by Giulia's passion for stories.It: Entrambi sentivano di aver trovato qualcuno che li capiva davvero.En: They both felt they had found someone who truly understood them.It: Tuttavia, c'erano ancora dubbi e paure che li trattenevano.En: However, there were still doubts and fears holding them back.It: Un pomeriggio, Luca decise di prendere coraggio.En: One afternoon, Luca decided to gather his courage.It: Invitò Giulia a vedere uno dei suoi dipinti.En: He invited Giulia to see one of his paintings.It: Era un paesaggio che ritraeva i dolci colli toscani, dipinto con colori vivaci.En: It was a landscape depicting the gentle Tuscan hills, painted with vibrant colors.It: Mostrare il suo lavoro a qualcun altro lo rendeva vulnerabile, ma il sorriso estasiato di Giulia cancellò ogni sua paura.En: Showing his work to someone else made him feel vulnerable, but Giulia's delighted smile erased all his fears.It: "Luca, è meraviglioso!En: "Luca, it's wonderful!It: Davvero, hai un grande talento," esclamò.En: Really, you have great talent," she exclaimed.It: In cambio, Giulia condivise il suo quaderno di racconti, pieni di vicende di avventura e fantasia.En: In return, Giulia shared her notebook of stories, full of adventures and fantasy tales.It: Per la prima volta, lei parlò di come la scrittura fosse la sua vera passione.En: For the first time, she spoke about how writing was her true passion.It: Anche con il peso delle aspettative familiari, voleva trovare la sua strada.En: Even with the weight of family expectations, she wanted to find her own path.It: Quella sera, il tramonto dipingeva il cielo di Firenze e un vento fresco lieve passava tra gli alberi.En: That evening, the sunset painted the Firenze sky, and a light, cool breeze passed through the trees.It: Luca e Giulia si resero conto di quanto ammirevolmente si completassero a vicenda.En: Luca and Giulia realized how admirably they complemented each other.It: Le loro paure pian piano svanirono, sostituite da una nuova sicurezza e un'intensa connessione.En: Their fears slowly faded, replaced by a newfound confidence and an intense connection.It: Dal quel momento, Luca aveva finalmente trovato la sua fiducia attraverso la sua arte, mentre Giulia cominciava a immaginare un futuro scritto da lei stessa.En: From that moment, Luca had finally found his confidence through his art, while Giulia began to imagine a future written by herself.It: Le storie di Giulia e i dipinti di Luca erano i mattoni della loro nuova avventura romantica, nella meraviglia di un'estate italiana.En: Giulia's stories and Luca's paintings were the building blocks of their new romantic adventure, in the wonders of an Italian summer. Vocabulary Words:the outskirts: i confinifragrant: profumatithe cicadas: le cicaleto adjust: ambientarsinervousness: nervosismoto suggest: suggerireexcitement: eccitazioneanxiety: ansiahope: speranzaa tangle: un grovigliohesitant: titubanteto greet: rivolgereembarrassment: imbarazzoartistic vision: visione artisticato enchant: incantaredoubts: dubbito gather courage: prendere coraggiovulnerable: vulnerabileto be delighted: essere estasiatoa smile: un sorrisoexpectations: aspettativeto admire: ammirareto fade: svanirethe connection: la connessioneconfidence: fiduciaromantic adventure: avventura romanticaa breeze: un ventopassion: passioneto hide: nasconderetalent: talento

What if your “now” didn't have to define your forever? In this candid conversation, I'm joined by my friend Jennifer Jacob — COO of Tique and founder of Explorateur Travel — to talk about the real-life pivots that helped her rebuild a beautiful life. From sewing curtains in a Tuscan farmhouse as a form of escapism to launching a thriving travel business after a painful divorce... to mentoring other women in her field and launching a second thriving company in the same industry, Jen's story is full of resilience, exploration, and evolution. In this episode, we chat about: • Using your 20s to create a “sample platter life” • Escaping vs. running toward a new chapter • How to rebuild after personal or professional setbacks • The real behind-the-scenes of starting a business • Why your life can evolve — again and again and again Whether you're exploring what's next or rebuilding after a hard season, this one will remind you: you can always begin again. Connect with Jen: @jennifermjacob Learn more about Tique: www.tiquehq.com About Your Brand of Beautiful Host, Bailie White: Bailie White is a motivational speaker with nearly 10 years of entrepreneurial experience and a heart for serving, motivating, and encouraging women. After starting and scaling her first business — a luxury travel agency with a team of 15 women, a celebrity clientele, and multi-millions of dollars in annual sales — she sold the business after realizing what she once thought was her dream, didn't fully align with the woman she wanted to become. Today, Bailie is the host of the Your Brand of Beautiful Podcast (debuting on Apple's Top Charts) and a published author and speaker. Bailie facilitates workshops and delivers keynote speeches to college women, young professionals, and mamapreneurs. Bailie teaches these women how to Stop Being Busy, Quiet The Noise, and Start Being Them — she teaches them how to become Their Own Brand of Beautiful. Bailie has been featured in media outlets like Buzzfeed and Forbes, but is most proud of her title as ‘wife' and ‘mom' to her two small children. Bailie lives with her family on the outskirts of Savannah, Georgia.   LET'S CONNECT! For speaking, event, or podcasting collabs, email: hey@bailiewhite.com Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heybailiewhite/ Visit Website: https://www.bailiewhite.com

Justin Bieber, AJLT finale, Tuscan bread, and more!patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a moment and focus on you, letting the day set behind you As you slip away quietly. LONG PAUSE And as you shift your focus, allow yourself to just let go. Let go of any distracting thoughts and stuff them in a basket so you can stay in the present. LONG PAUSE Now, embrace yourself with gentleness and self-love  as you continue quieting the mind and letting go, So there's nothing but you in this moment Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

What does it take to go from microwaving jalapeño poppers at Old Orleans to co-founding two of London's most beloved restaurants? In this episode of The Go-To Food Podcast, Tim Siadatan tells the story of his unlikely start in hospitality, the life-changing opportunity of Jamie Oliver's Fifteen, and the discipline and creativity he absorbed while training under some of the city's most influential chefs.Tim shares how formative stints at St. John and Moro shaped his approach to food, fire, and flavour, and why opening Trullo felt like the right moment to bring his own vision of Italian cooking to life. He reflects on the lessons of building a restaurant with soul, the tough realities of the industry, and the importance of serving food that people really want to eat.Then came Padella — the pasta bar that would go on to attract legendary queues. Tim lifts the curtain on its creation, the sheer logistics of cooking 700 plates of pasta a day, and the decisions that go into everything from whether to serve fresh or dried pasta to how you manage a team through the challenges of Covid and Brexit.From his Old Orleans beginnings to the queues outside Padella, Tim's journey is packed with memorable moments: Jamie Oliver's Fifteen and its transformative sourcing trips, learning fire cooking at Moro and the art of salads at St. John, the logistical realities of serving 700 plates of pasta a day, and the endless debate of fresh versus dried. He recalls near-drowning off the coast of San Sebastián, long Italian lunches from Tuscany to Amalfi, banning one very creepy regular, and why a Tuscan mixed grill followed by his mum's lemon-crunch pie would be the dream way to end any meal.-----Please leave us a great rating and a comment and share it with your friends - it really helps us grow as a show.If you're in the industry and are looking for the greatest POS system in the world than look no further as Blinq are tearing up the rulebook—no long-term contracts, no hidden fees, and no per-device charges.Just £49 a month for unlimited devices and 24/7 UK-based support that's always there, in person when you need it.Built for hospitality, by hospitality, blinq is the fastest, easiest POS system on the market—so intuitive, anyone can use it. And while others take weeks to get you up and running, with blinq, you're live in just 2 hours.Join the hospitality revolution today & use the code GOTOBLINQ to get your first month free - https://blinqme.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a moment and focus on you, letting the day set behind you As you slip away quietly. LONG PAUSE And as you shift your focus, allow yourself to just let go. Let go of any distracting thoughts and stuff them in a basket so you can stay in the present. LONG PAUSE Now, embrace yourself with gentleness and self-love  as you continue quieting the mind and letting go, So there's nothing but you in this moment Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

The Rejuvenating Power of a Well-Planned VacationIn this short and sweet summer episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine shares her rejuvenating experience from a girls' vacation to Italy. The trip was a graduation gift from her sister to her daughter and included highlights such as exploring Rome, biking through Tuscany, and visiting Florence. Christine emphasizes the benefits of taking a vacation planned by someone else, visiting a new place, and engaging in the right amount of activity to disconnect from work and rejuvenate.00:00 Welcome to the Girl Doc Survival Guide00:07 A Memorable Girl's Vacation to Italy00:40 Three Reasons This Trip Was Special01:12 Vacation Tips for Doctors and Parents01:25 Happy Summer!

Loretta shares tales from Prosser Farm // We dish on staff meals – and how they fuel restaurant camaraderie and culinary inspiration // We dive into Tom’s Tuscan Bread Salad // We chat Auction of Washington Wines with Jamie Peha and winemaker Jean-Francois Pellet of Pepper Bridge Winery and Amavi Cellars // Chef Danae McLaughlin brings bold flavor with Jamaican dishes // Rachel Belle returns, tackling the great condiment conundrum – fridge or pantry // And as always, we wrap things up with Food for Thought: Tasty Trivia!

The mercury's high, the sleeves are short, the sun is hot, and the takes are even hotter. That's what happens when in July, when your favorite Fiorentina podcast idiots are running on SPF (Speculatively Positive Foolishness) fumes and delivering some blistering takes. Before we get to takes, though, we run through the conclusion of Moise Kean Release Clause Minidrama and Stefano Pioli's introductory press conference. After that, though, each of us tried to outdo the others in irresponsible optimism, before doing a quick rundown of the transfer rumors. Along the way, we learned about McMike's Tuscan hot dog conundrum and Producer Mike's second stroker theory. Thank you to ⁠⁠Sport Social Podcast Network⁠⁠ for hosting us and to ⁠⁠Windchime Weather⁠⁠ for the music. As always, we hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed making this. You could leave a rating and review if you want, but whatever. You can also hit us up on the website, Twitter, or Bluesky if you feel like it. Forza Viola! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Tuscan Mystery: Chef's Culinary Quest & Hidden Treasures Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-07-20-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: La calda luce del sole estivo brillava sulle colline toscane, mentre i campi ondeggiavano lievemente sotto il soffio del vento.En: The warm light of the summer sun shone on the Tuscan hills, while the fields waved slightly under the breeze of the wind.It: Nell'agriturismo immerso tra vigneti e uliveti, il Midsummer Festival batteva il suo ritmo festoso.En: In the agriturismo nestled among vineyards and olive groves, the Midsummer Festival beat its festive rhythm.It: L'aria era piena di risate, musica, e l'aroma invitante dei piatti tradizionali cucinati da Luca, il giovane e talentuoso chef del posto.En: The air was filled with laughter, music, and the inviting aroma of traditional dishes cooked by Luca, the young and talented chef of the place.It: Da bambino, Luca aveva sempre sognato di gestire l'agriturismo con la stessa abilità e passione dei suoi genitori.En: As a child, Luca had always dreamed of running the agriturismo with the same skill and passion as his parents.It: La sua determinazione cresceva ogni giorno mentre si sforzava di impressionare il proprietario dell'agriturismo, il signor Bianchi, con il suo talento culinario e la sua visione per il futuro.En: His determination grew every day as he strove to impress the owner of the agriturismo, Mr. Bianchi, with his culinary talent and his vision for the future.It: Durante il festival, la curiosità e eccitazione cedevano il passo a un'ondata di tensione.En: During the festival, curiosity and excitement gave way to a wave of tension.It: Un antico cimelio di famiglia, un medaglione d'oro con un intricato intaglio, era misteriosamente scomparso.En: An ancient family heirloom, a gold medallion with intricate carving, mysteriously disappeared.It: Gli occhi dei presenti si riempirono di sospetto, puntandosi gli uni sugli altri.En: The eyes of those present filled with suspicion, glaring at one another.It: Tra i sospettati c'era Sara, amica d'infanzia di Luca.En: Among the suspects was Sara, Luca's childhood friend.It: Le voci serpeggiavano come serpenti, mettendo alla prova la fiducia e l'innocenza di ciascuno.En: Rumors slithered like snakes, testing the trust and innocence of each individual.It: La pressione sul giovane chef aumentava.En: The pressure on the young chef increased.It: Mentre cercava di convincere il signor Bianchi delle sue capacità gestionali, adesso doveva affrontare un enigma che minacciava di distruggere le feste e le amicizie.En: While he tried to convince Mr. Bianchi of his managerial skills, he now had to face a riddle that threatened to destroy the festivities and friendships.It: In segreto, Luca decise di agire.En: In secret, Luca decided to take action.It: Con il cuore pesante, fece finta di concentrarsi solo sui suoi piatti, intanto iniziò a indagare, ponendo domande furtive agli ospiti.En: With a heavy heart, he pretended to focus only on his dishes, while he began to investigate, asking furtive questions to the guests.It: Una notte, il cielo si squarciò da un temporale minaccioso.En: One night, the sky was torn by a threatening thunderstorm.It: Le ombre danzanti delle foglie si riflettevano nei lampi, e Luca si trovò seguendo un'intuizione.En: The dancing shadows of the leaves reflected in the lightning, and Luca found himself following a hunch.It: Scorse qualcosa vicino al vecchio mulino dell'agriturismo.En: He noticed something near the old mill of the agriturismo.It: Gli era sempre parso un luogo speciale, ma col temporale, rivelò una strana apertura nascosta.En: It had always seemed a special place to him, but with the storm, it revealed a strange hidden opening.It: Entrando cauto nel sotterraneo, trovò il medaglione, abbandonato accanto a un piccolo forziere pieno di ricette antiche che tutti credevano perse.En: Cautiously entering the underground, he found the medallion, abandoned next to a small chest full of ancient recipes that everyone thought lost.It: L'emozione lo travolse.En: Emotion overwhelmed him.It: Tornò dal signor Bianchi e, con il medaglione tra le mani, raccontò l'accaduto.En: He returned to Mr. Bianchi and, with the medallion in his hands, recounted what had happened.It: Non accusò nessuno, ma suggerì invece di migliorare la sicurezza per il bene di tutti.En: He did not accuse anyone, but instead suggested improving security for everyone's sake.It: Il signor Bianchi, colpito dall'integrità e l'astuzia di Luca, esclamò con ammirazione.En: Mr. Bianchi, struck by Luca's integrity and cunning, exclaimed with admiration.It: Luca riconquistò la fiducia del suo mentore, guadagnandosi ulteriori responsabilità nel gestire l'agriturismo.En: Luca regained the trust of his mentor, earning further responsibilities in managing the agriturismo.It: Ora il suo cuore era leggero, consapevole che la sua forza non risiedeva solo nella cucina, ma anche nella sua intelligenza e nel suo cuore.En: Now his heart was light, aware that his strength lay not only in the kitchen, but also in his intelligence and heart.It: Così, con il medaglione riportato al suo posto di diritto, il festival riprese con una nuova gioia.En: Thus, with the medallion returned to its rightful place, the festival resumed with new joy.It: Luca aveva trovato non solo il cimelio, ma anche una nuova consapevolezza di se stesso che splendeva forte come il sole estivo sopra le colline toscane.En: Luca had found not only the heirloom but also a newfound awareness of himself that shone as brightly as the summer sun over the Tuscan hills. Vocabulary Words:the breeze: il soffiothe heirloom: il cimeliothe medallion: il medaglioneintricate: intricatothe carving: l'intagliothe laughter: le risatethe aroma: l'aromathe owner: il proprietariothe tension: la tensionethe suspicion: il sospettothe snakes: i serpentifurtive: furtivethe thunderstorm: il temporalethe hunch: l'intuizionethe lightning: i lampithe opening: l'aperturaunderground: sotterraneothe chest: il forzierethe recipes: le ricetteintegrity: integritàcunning: l'astuziathe mentor: il mentoreto regain: riconquistarethe responsibilities: le responsabilitàthe awareness: la consapevolezzato impress: impressionarethe vision: la visioneto vanish: scomparireto accuse: accusarethe curiosity: la curiosità

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Love Blooms Amidst the Masterpieces of Uffizi Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-07-19-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: La calda luce d'estate filtrava attraverso le finestre alte della Galleria degli Uffizi, dipingendo ombre lunghe sul pavimento.En: The warm summer light filtered through the tall windows of the Galleria degli Uffizi, casting long shadows on the floor.It: Le voci dei visitatori erano sussurri, un sottofondo perfetto per le magnifiche opere d'arte che adornavano le pareti.En: The voices of the visitors were whispers, a perfect backdrop for the magnificent works of art that adorned the walls.It: In mezzo a questo capolavoro di storia e cultura, Luca si fermò davanti a "La Primavera" di Botticelli.En: In the midst of this masterpiece of history and culture, Luca stopped in front of "La Primavera" by Botticelli.It: Era il suo quadro preferito, pieno di dettagli e bellezza che lo affascinavano.En: It was his favorite painting, full of details and beauty that captivated him.It: Accanto a lui, Giulia osservava lo stesso dipinto, i suoi occhi seguivano le linee delicate delle figure.En: Next to him, Giulia was observing the same painting, her eyes following the delicate lines of the figures.It: Era alla ricerca di ispirazione per il suo prossimo quadro, qualcosa che potesse catturare l'essenza della rinascita e della natura.En: She was searching for inspiration for her next painting, something that could capture the essence of rebirth and nature.It: Luca esitava.En: Luca hesitated.It: Era timido, spesso con il naso in un libro, ma sentiva il bisogno di condividere i suoi pensieri su quel dipinto.En: He was shy, often with his nose in a book, but he felt the need to share his thoughts about that painting.It: Con un respiro profondo, si decise a parlare.En: With a deep breath, he decided to speak.It: "E' incredibile come Botticelli riesce a congelare la primavera in un momento eterno, vero?"En: "It's incredible how Botticelli manages to freeze spring in an eternal moment, isn't it?"It: disse Luca, la voce tremante ma genuina.En: said Luca, his voice trembling but genuine.It: Giulia si voltò verso di lui, sorpresa ma interessata.En: Giulia turned towards him, surprised but interested.It: "Hai ragione," rispose con un sorriso caloroso, "è come se ogni figura raccontasse una storia."En: "You're right," she replied with a warm smile, "it's as if each figure tells a story."It: Cominciarono a parlare, lentamente all'inizio, ma presto la loro conversazione si fece più animata.En: They began to talk, slowly at first, but soon their conversation became more animated.It: Luca parlava con passione dei dettagli tecnici e storici che aveva studiato, mentre Giulia condivideva le sue emozioni e sensazioni da artista.En: Luca spoke passionately about the technical and historical details he had studied, while Giulia shared her emotions and sensations as an artist.It: Scoprirono di avere molto in comune, non solo l'amore per l'arte, ma anche una curiosità per il mondo.En: They discovered they had much in common, not only a love for art but also a curiosity for the world.It: La loro connessione cresceva in modo naturale e sincero.En: Their connection grew naturally and sincerely.It: Giulia era colpita dall'entusiasmo di Luca, mentre lui trovava confortante e stimolante la compagnia di Giulia.En: Giulia was struck by Luca's enthusiasm, while he found Giulia's company comforting and inspiring.It: "Mi farebbe piacere continuare questa conversazione davanti a un caffè," disse Giulia con un tono che trasmetteva speranza e invito.En: "I would love to continue this conversation over coffee," said Giulia with a tone that conveyed hope and invitation.It: Luca annuì, finalmente sicuro di sé.En: Luca nodded, finally confident.It: "Mi piacerebbe molto," rispose, scambiandosi i numeri di telefono.En: "I'd love that," he replied, exchanging phone numbers.It: Mentre uscivano insieme dalla galleria, il sole toscano illuminava la piazza, promettendo nuove avventure e incontri.En: As they walked out of the gallery together, the Tuscan sun illuminated the square, promising new adventures and encounters.It: Luca si sentiva diverso, più connesso alle persone oltre i suoi studi.En: Luca felt different, more connected to people beyond his studies.It: Giulia, d'altra parte, aveva trovato qualcuno che apprezzava veramente la bellezza dell'arte.En: Giulia, on the other hand, had found someone who truly appreciated the beauty of art.It: Per entrambi, era l'inizio di qualcosa di speciale, una stagione di nuove scoperte e passioni condivise.En: For both, it was the beginning of something special, a season of new discoveries and shared passions. Vocabulary Words:the light: la lucethe whisper: il sussurrothe backdrop: il sottofondothe masterpiece: il capolavorothe detail: il dettagliothe inspiration: l'ispirazionethe essence: l'essenzathe rebirth: la rinascitathe breath: il respirothe smile: il sorrisothe connection: la connessionethe company: la compagniathe hope: la speranzathe invitation: l'invitothe phone number: il numero di telefonothe adventure: l'avventurathe encounter: l'incontrothe shadow: l'ombrathe wall: la paretethe line: la lineathe figure: la figurathe conversation: la conversazionethe emotion: l'emozionethe passion: la passionethe artist: l'artistathe gallery: la galleriathe square: la piazzathe sun: il solethe season: la stagionethe discovery: la scoperta

In Episode 121, Jeff Krommendyk, insurance expert with One Digital Insurance Agency and co-host of the Expert Network Team, recounts the eight-day, 85-mile Tuscan stretch of the ancient Via Francigena he and his wife Leslie recently hiked with a small discipleship cohort—a journey that blended rigorous daily walking with deep prayer, marriage-focused vision-casting, and community. The pilgrimage became a transformative marriage retreat, giving the couple clarity about merging their complementary callings—his executive and spiritual coaching passions with her talent for curating immersive experiences—into future retreats that nourish body, soul, and spirit. Jeff describes how time in nature, shared spiritual practices, and new friendships left them energized, unified, and inspired to design meaningful, adventure-infused growth experiences for others in the next season of life.As a quick reminder, the Expert Network Team provides free consultations. We would love the opportunity to be of service to you or someone you care about. Just scroll the liner notes to contact one of our experts or today's guest. And please share this podcast with anyone who you think might find it interesting.As always, it is good to have an expert on your side. Expert Network team provides free consultations. Just mention that you listened to the podcast. Nathan Merrill, attorneyWorking with affluent families and entrepreneurs in implementing tax-efficient strategies and wealth preservationGoodspeed, Merrill(720) 473-7644nmerrill@goodspeedmerrill.comwww.goodspeedmerrill.com Jeff Krommendyk, Insurance ExpertWorking with business owners and successful families in transferring riskOne Digital Insurance Agency(303) 730-2327jeff.krommendyk@onedigital.com Karl FrankFinancial planner helping a small number of successful families grow and protect their wealth and choose how they want to be taxedCERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™A&I Wealth Management(303) 690.5070karl@assetsandincome.com Webcasts, Podcasts, Streaming Video, Streaming AudioA&I webcasts, podcasts, streaming video, or streaming audios are provided free of charge solely for use by individuals for personal, noncommercial uses, and may be downloaded for such uses only, provided that the content is not edited or modified in any way and provided that all copyright and other notices are not erased or deleted.All webcasts, podcasts, streaming video, or streaming audios are subject to and protected by U.S. and international copyright laws and may not be sold, edited, modified, used to create new works, redistributed or used for the purpose of promoting, advertising, endorsing or implying a connection with A&I.A&I reserves the right, at any time and for any reason, to stop offering webcasts, podcasts, streaming video, or streaming audios and to stop access to or use of webcasts, podcasts, streaming video, or streaming audio and any content contained therein A&I shall not be liable for any loss or damage suffered as a result of, or connected with, the downloading or use of the webcasts, podcasts, streaming video, or streaming audios. A&I Wealth Management is a registered investment adviser that only conducts business in jurisdictions where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Registration as an investment adviser is not an endorsement of the firm by securities regulators and does not mean the adviser has achieved a specific level of skill or ability. The firm is not engaged in the practice of law or accounting.The information presented is believed to be current. It should not be viewed as personalized investment advice. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the presenter on the date of the podcast and are subject to change. The information presented is not an offer to buy or sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell, any of the securities discussed. You should consult with a professional adviser before implementing any of the strategies discussed. Any legal or tax information provided in this podcast is general in nature. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Join thousands of other listeners on our Substack, The Foodletter!   In this episode, Brooke sits down with the inspiring Jessica Bennett—founder, creative director, and podcast host at Alice Lane Interior Design and Alice Lane Home Collection. Known for her thoughtful, sophisticated interiors and warm approach to design, Jessica shares her entrepreneurial journey, how she transitioned from advertising to interior design, and the powerful “why” behind client choices.   They discuss the emotional and practical aspects of creating beautiful spaces—how even seasoned designers can feel paralyzed when decorating their own homes, why bold decisions can reignite creativity, and how the best interiors are deeply personal. Whether you love design or feel overwhelmed by it, this conversation will leave you encouraged to trust your gut, embrace your story, and design a home that feels like you.   Key Takeaways [01:45] Confidence in Design is Built Over Time: Jessica opens up about repainting her home in a bold, high-gloss teal—and how even as a pro, she felt paralyzed by the decision. Design can be emotional, and sometimes you need a friend or a pro to “boss you around” and help you move forward. [08:30] From Advertising to Interiors: Jessica shares how her early career in ad agencies (including working on Coca-Cola's 1996 Olympic campaign) taught her how to think big, understand brands deeply, and translate that vision into her work as a designer. [18:15] Every Design Tells a Story: The best interiors reflect the client's past, aspirations, and identity. Jessica illustrates this with a client who insisted on black-and-white checkered floors—a nostalgic nod to a beloved aunt that Jessica helped reimagine into something unique and timeless. [26:28] Launching Alice Lane in 2008 (Yes, During the Recession!): Jessica and her husband sold their custom home to fund their new brick-and-mortar store. She explains how they survived the economic downturn through passion, risk-taking, and creating a design aesthetic that stood apart from the Tuscan trends of the time. [40:56] Jessica's Kitchen Design Philosophy: Kitchens are the heart of the home and the starting point for any project. Jessica outlines her process, including why she always begins with appliance shopping to ensure the layout matches the client's needs and lifestyle. [42:06] Ice Makers Matter—Design is in the Details: From Scotsman chewable ice to KitchenAid cubes, Jessica shares why every decision—down to your preferred ice texture—should align with how you live and what brings joy to your daily rituals.   Notable Quotes (06:28) “It feels like I'm playing the best game called interior design with myself.” (17:06) “I have to get in the kitchen with them to really understand their story.” (on her personalized approach to client design) (21:07) “The highest vision of your idea is what we're after—not just what's trendy.” (29:28) “If I didn't do it, it would have haunted me every day of my life.” (on taking the risk to start Alice Lane)   Resources Explore Jessica's work and shop online: Alice Lane Home Collection Listen to the Dear Alice podcast for more design tips and inspiring conversations Check out the Coca-Cola video trailer Follow Alice Lane Interior Design on Instagram Follow Female Foodie on Instagram

Jeff Larson of Green Bay Sail and Paddle recounts his dream month in Italy, balancing between bustling cities like Venice and Rome and the serene Tuscan countryside. He shares vivid tales of navigating Italian roads, indulging in local culinary delights, and the challenges of tracing Italian genealogy. The episode flows into a vibrant discussion about his organization's mission to provide sailing experiences to underprivileged kids, with an emphasis on inclusivity and education. They empower kids with unique skills, exposing them to the beauty of the bay, and instilling a love for sailing and the outdoors. Maino and the Mayor is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 6-9 am on WGBW in Green Bay and on WISS in Appleton/Oshkosh. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast lineup. Follow the show on Facebook and X to keep up with Maino and the Mayor! Guest: Jeff Larson

Want to go deeper than guidebooks and monuments? Try connecting with a place through your taste buds. In this episode, I chat with Angelo Carotenuto, founder of LivTours, about how to connect with Europe through food — one bite, one story, one unforgettable experience at a time.Angelo shares how food is more than just fuel when you travel. It's a sensory gateway into culture, history and daily life — whether you're sipping wine at an outdoor cafe in Paris or rolling pasta in a local Tuscan kitchen.What we dish up in this episode:Why food is one of the most meaningful ways to connect with EuropeHow regional traditions shape what (and how) people eat — spoiler: not all carbonara is created equalWhat makes a truly great food tour (hint: it's not tiny samples)Cooking classes that feel like home — and actually teach you something you'll cook againWhy small groups create deeper, more personal food experiencesYou'll also get a peek into LivTours' new cooking school and the delightfully personal cooking class set in Angelo's mom's Roman kitchen (yes, for real — it's the dream).If you're craving a more authentic way to experience Europe, this conversation will inspire you to explore it one plate at a time.

Florence was founded in the 1st century BCE as a Roman military outpost, although it came to prominence as a centre of commerce and the arts in the 14th to 16th centuries CE. The Florentine method of speech even became the Italian language. Some of the city's most famous exports are Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, Michelangelo, and Niccolo Machiavelli, along with the Medici family. You can see the tombs of Galileo, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli in the Basilica of Santa Croce. But that's not all you can find in this Tuscan city. From the mythological scenes to statues of Roman gods present in the Uffizi, Florence has a range of odd curiosities and folk traditions that are worth seeing. Let's explore some of the stranger side of Florence in this week's episode of Fabulous Folklore! Find the images and references on the blog post: https://www.icysedgwick.com/florence-folklore/ Pre-order Ghostlore: https://geni.us/ghostlore The Many Faces of Medusa talk: https://ko-fi.com/s/a60a047ebb Get your free guide to home protection the folklore way here: https://www.icysedgwick.com/fab-folklore/ Become a member of the Fabulous Folklore Family for bonus episodes and articles at https://patreon.com/bePatron?u=2380595 Buy Icy a coffee or sign up for bonus episodes at: https://ko-fi.com/icysedgwick Fabulous Folklore Bookshop: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/fabulous_folklore Pre-recorded illustrated talks: https://ko-fi.com/icysedgwick/shop Request an episode: https://forms.gle/gqG7xQNLfbMg1mDv7 Get extra snippets of folklore on Instagram at https://instagram.com/icysedgwick Find Icy on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/icysedgwick.bsky.social 'Like' Fabulous Folklore on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fabulousfolklore/

SEASON 7: All Roads Lead to ClermontEPISODE 164: The Council of Piacenza, Pt.1The world is about to descend upon one mid-sized Tuscan city called Piacenza, and what comes out of this week-long event will not only set the stage for what's to come (such as the First Crusade, for starters), but also set serious legal and doctrinal precedent for centuries.No More Paywalls! How?If you believe in what's happening here – bringing our shared history to life, warts and all, free to the public with absolutely no more paywalls…ever…please consider donating to my caffeine-mediated research and writing through the website/app Buy Me A Coffee! With opportunities for one-time donations and even a monthly donation plan, you can voluntarily contribute to the continuation of this show. I would be eternally grateful!Social Media:YouTube: Fortune's Wheel PodcastMeta: https://www.facebook.com/fortunes.wheel.3 X: https://twitter.com/WheelPodcastBuy Me A Coffee!

If you have spent any time at all in the wine trade...even if you have just visited the wine section of your favorite market; you know, have seen and recognize the name Sebastiani. They are one of the original Sonoma county wine families and August is the 4th generation. He makes an interesting point that traditionally in the Italian culture, the firstborn son that gets the name of the founding family member, in this case, it was the 4th generation son. But don't let the family history fool you into thinking this is old school, archaic thinking wine approach; nothing could be further from the truth. Few winery names are as steeped in Sonoma lore as Sebastiani, but August Sebastiani himself is as approachable as a bottle of his family's famed Zinfandel. Tune into this episode and you'll discover why. You'll be privy to a firsthand account of American winemaking's intersection with immigration, family legacy, and relentless innovation, as August peels back the layers of his family's journey from Tuscan stone mason beginnings to California wine empire. You'll hear how his great-grandfather started with nothing but a trowel and a dream, made his fortune in rocks after San Francisco's great earthquake, and how the generations that followed grew that spirit into an industry force—pivoting from stones to grapes, from bulk to premium, and always with a nod to their roots. August shares candid stories of sibling rivalry among winemaking families, the hard lessons learned from Prohibition, and the offbeat path that nearly led him away from wine. Whether wrangling city council duties in between harvests or tending to the next generation of wine drinkers, August reveals how both tradition and restless creativity fuel Three Badge Beverage Corporation's quest for relevance in a marketplace that's constantly shifting underfoot. You'll learn why packaging matters as much as what's in the bottle, what innovation actually looks like for a multigenerational wine business, and why sometimes, the key to success is simply listening—whether it's to a bartender's take on what's trending or a customer's unvarnished truth. Walk away from this episode with intimate knowledge of how the Sebastiani family has continually reinvented itself, how legacy and bold experimentation coexist, and why August believes you sometimes have to run to the front of the parade and pretend you've been leading it all along.   Three Badge Beverage Corporation (Three Badge) Website: https://threebadge.com Sebastiani Vineyards Website: https://www.sebastiani.com Don Sebastiani & Sons Website: https://donsebastianiandsons.com Wine of the Month Club Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com B.R. Cohn Winery Website: https://www.brcohn.com Constellation Brands Website: https://www.cbrands.com Gallo (E. & J. Gallo Winery) Website: https://www.gallo.com Mondavi (Robert Mondavi Winery) Website: https://www.robertmondaviwinery.com Château Montelena Website: https://www.montelena.com Inglenook Website: https://www.inglenook.com Pepperwood Grove Website: https://www.pepperwoodgrove.com Barefoot Wine Website: https://www.barefootwine.com Uncle Val's Gin Website: https://unclevalsgin.com Crudo (Sushi restaurant in Oaxaca) This appears to be a restaurant, but not enough detail was given for an official website. Knox & Dobson (RTD Cocktails) Website: https://knoxanddobson.com #wineindustry #SonomaValley #SebastianiFamily #wineinnovation #winemarketing #premiumwine #generationalbusiness #ThreeBadgeBeverage #spiritsindustry #Prohibition #immigrantstories #Californiawine #nonalcoholicbeverages #winebranding #markettrends #familylegacy #winepackaging #retailwinesales #craftbeer #readytodrinkcocktails      

More weird Amazon reviews: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTz_vyR-zjcBMoD6PwEpKv-kYsR0vlh9nThey said it was just Tuscan Whole Milk, 1 Gallon, but I have uncovered something far greater. This is no ordinary dairy product—it is liquid poetry, a Shakespearean masterpiece in a plastic jug. Today, we embark on a dramatic reading of its infamous Amazon reviews, which have turned a simple grocery item into an internet legend. Will this milk transcend its humble origins? Or will it curdle under the weight of expectation? Stick around as we dive into the most over-the-top food review of all time!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/reddxyDiscord: https://discord.gg/reddxPayPal: https://www.paypal.me/daytondoesPatreon: http://patreon.com/daytondoesTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/daytondoes

Six Bars Jail, a small club located just outside of Florence, Italy, was founded in 2006.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Stephen Petasky is the founder and CEO of The Luxus Group, a hospitality and development firm specializing in luxury vacation homes, global restorations, and high-end resort communities. Over nearly two decades, he's raised more than $100 million, facilitated 20,000 vacations, and partnered with brands like Four Seasons to deliver premium lifestyle experiences through real estate. His business journey spans from fractional home ownership to international development, all driven by a passion for design, family travel, and scalability.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Stephen started Luxus by solving his own problem—traveling with young kids—and turned that into a $100M global vacation home portfolio. Raising capital gets easier when the investment includes a dual purpose, like lifestyle use alongside financial return. Scaling a business requires building it “back to front”—start with the exit goal, then reverse engineer every step. Real estate and development success takes patience; some ventures took 7–10+ years to turn profitable. Subject matter expertise becomes a valuable asset after years of refinement, leading to higher-impact, lower-risk projects.     Topics How a Personal Travel Need Became a Syndicated Real Estate Venture Started Luxus to create a family-friendly alternative to hotels or inconsistent vacation rentals. Solved the problem of predictability, comfort, and flexibility by imagining ownership of 30 homes—then invited others to co-invest. Raised $3.5M to purchase three homes; word-of-mouth demand led to $100M+ raised and 50 properties acquired. Dual-Purpose Investing: Lifestyle + Returns Investors received lifestyle benefits—discounted nightly rates—alongside capital preservation. These vacation privileges created real financial savings, boosting total return beyond simple IRR metrics. Stephen compares the model to a “golf club that sells at the end”—with liquidity and upside built in. How to Make Raising Capital Easier Dual-purpose investments or vendor-aligned capital (e.g., landowners or contractors investing) make raises more compelling. Giving investors experiential or operational upside increases buy-in—even when the financial returns are moderate. Partnerships built on aligned interests are more resilient over time. Scaling With Clarity and Hindsight Luxus' new business model was built “back to front,” starting with a $100M valuation target and working backward to day one. Planning for bottlenecks—legal, financial, tech, or operational—can reduce future breakdowns. AI tools now help model scalable pathways and highlight structural weak points before launch. New Ventures: Management, Development, and Restorations Luxus now manages luxury short-term rentals it doesn't own, applying hotel-like service and strategy. Stephen is a core partner in the Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas ($1.3B sellout). The company also restores centuries-old Tuscan estates for North American and European clients—12 years in, with a waitlist.    

Expert tour guides share advice for exploring the ancient ruins and seaside villages along Turkey's Aegean coast, the Renaissance wonders of Florence, the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside, and charming Danish towns and islands easily reached on day trips from Copenhagen. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.