Podcasts about Tuscany

What turns a house into a story you can hold? In this recap episode, we look back at our episode with Jenny Marrs for a warm, funny, and honest look at how a five-year writing journey became a memoir stitched from rooms, rituals, and the small moments that define family. Instead of design rules and trends, Jenny frames each chapter around a lived memory; the living room on Christmas morning, the spaces that carry laughter, mess, and meaning, creating a keepsake her kids can open years from now.Pulling back the curtain on the other half of her year: filming a six-episode renovation in Italy. The postcard image cracked under real pressure, snow in Tuscany, twelve-hour days, and back-and-forth flights that turned a dream into a test of endurance. We trade stories about logistics gone sideways, including a rental car ticket that landed on the wrong desk, and laugh through the kind of travel chaos that becomes legend among friends.Threaded through the hustle is a reminder of why any of it matters. A bearded friend recognized at a gas station, a viewer's daughter in a wheelchair who loves the show, and a quick decision to fly home early to surprise her. That small act reframes the entire season: work is the vehicle, people are the destination. If you've ever wondered how to capture your family's history, balance ambition with presence, or turn everyday spaces into memory engines, this conversation will meet you where you live, literally.If the story moves you, subscribe, share this episode with someone who loves their home, and leave a review with your favorite room memory so we can feature it next time.And go back and watch the full episode: Ep. 4 - Heartbeats and Homecomings: Jenny Marrs on Weaving Memories into Design

Peter Alexander sits down with U.S. soccer star Christian Pulisic to discuss life in Italy, cheering on Team USA at the Olympic Games and what to expect from Team USA soccer at this summer's FIFA World Cup. Also, Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page join from Milan to talk about their time at the Games and their new rom-com ‘You, Me, and Tuscany.' Plus, TODAY medical reporter Dr. Akshay Syal breaks down the best ways to help your body recover after a workout. And, chef Jernard Wells whips up a chicken andouille sausage pasta recipe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Travel has a way of waking us up and inviting us to slow down, breathe more deeply, and reconnect with what truly makes us feel alive. In this episode of Speaking of Travel, we welcome Nancy De Losa, Co-Founder of A'qto Italian Cycling Tours, whose work beautifully blends cycling, culture, community, and mindful travel across Italy.Nancy shares how exploring Italy by bike becomes far more than a physical experience. Moving through landscapes at a human pace encourages presence, clarity, and a powerful mind-body connection, while the gentle rhythm of the journey naturally reduces stress and opens space for reflection, joy, and personal growth. Riding becomes a form of meditation and a chance to feel each moment rather than rush through it.Beyond the ride, travelers discover the deeper wellness woven into everyday Italian life, like gathering in the piazza, sharing long meals and local wines, enjoying aperitivo, and connecting with people and place in meaningful ways. These simple rituals remind us that wellbeing is not only about activity, but about finding balance in movement and rest, nourishment and connection, adventure and presence.This heartfelt conversation explores how slowing down, traveling with intention, and embracing the Italian way of living can transform a trip into a journey that helps us feel grounded, renewed, and more fully ourselves.A must listen. Especially for all you Italy dreamers!Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.

An Unexpected Path to Baking Chef Chuck Arnaud didn't follow a traditional route to becoming one of Luray's most beloved bakers. For over two decades, he worked in stagecraft, starting as a junior high school stagehand and eventually country music artists in Nashville. However, his career took a dramatic turn when he traded stage lights for bread ovens, opening Main Street Bakery and Catering in the heart of Page County. During this episode of The Valley Today with host Janet Michael and Gina Hilliard, president of the Luray Page Chamber of Commerce, Chef Chuck revealed what drew him to this picturesque Virginia community. "I've lots of kin in the area," he explains, describing his deep family roots on the other side of the ridge in Shenandoah County. This connection made the transition feel natural rather than terrifying. Moreover, Page County's stunning landscape—featuring Shenandoah National Park, the Shenandoah River, and George Washington National Forest—provided the perfect backdrop for his new venture. The Aroma of Home Walking into Main Street Bakery triggers something profound in visitors. "The number one thing people say is, 'Wow, it smells wonderful in here,'" Chef Chuck shares. This reaction isn't accidental. He believes people have become disconnected from their grandmother's kitchens, where families gathered around tables filled with home-baked bread and the aroma of love filled the air. Furthermore, Chef Chuck sees his bakery as more than a business—it's a bridge to lost traditions. "That magical aroma of family and love has just become lost to us," he reflects. "So people reconnect with that when they come in because that aroma—pow—it's front and center right there when you walk into the bakery." What's on the Menu Currently, Main Street Bakery operates with a skeleton crew of three people, plus dedicated volunteers like Mike Salvino. The team focuses primarily on artisan breads, muffins, scones, and quiche. Chef Chuck personally handles everything that goes into the oven, while Emma has moved into savory work, tackling knife work, soups, and salads. The bakery's soup program has become particularly popular. Two standouts fly off the shelves: the Senegalese peanut soup, which customers request repeatedly because of its unique, original flavor, and the classic potato leek soup, which sells by the quart. Customers can enjoy soup in the bakery or take it home in half-pint, pint, or quart containers, either hot or cold. Meanwhile, the sweet treats maintain their own devoted following. Chocolate chip cookies disappear so quickly that they rarely make it to closing time. Brownies and blondies also prove to be "good problems to have," as Chef Chuck puts it, consistently selling out. The Art of Bread Making Unlike many modern bakeries that focus exclusively on cakes and cupcakes, Main Street Bakery champions the nearly lost art of bread baking. Chef Chuck approaches bread with seasonal creativity rather than rigid schedules. On cold, chilly days, he gravitates toward dark, rustic loaves. Recently, he crafted a buttered honey oat multigrain bread that toasts beautifully, as well as a traditional pumpernickel—chocolatey and coffee-forward with generous amounts of caraway and fennel seeds. Additionally, Chef Chuck emphasizes that customers shouldn't hesitate to make special requests. Want a bread bowl for your soup? Just call ahead. "If you want a bowl, call us," he insists. "We'll make you a bowl and we'll put soup in it and sit you down and make you happy. That's just what we do and who we are right now." Building Community Through Collaboration Chef Chuck's philosophy extends beyond his own storefront. He actively seeks collaborations with other local businesses, understanding that a rising tide lifts all boats. His strongest partnerships include Hawksbill Brewing Company and Wisteria Vineyard, where food naturally pairs with beer and wine. These collaborations take various forms. For Mardi Gras, he brings king cake to Hawksbill Brewing Company, complete with the traditional baby hidden inside—whoever finds it wins a free beer. For St. Patrick's Day, he plans to serve cottage pies with ground beef, gravy, mashed potatoes, and caramelized cheese. At Wisteria Vineyard, he creates seasonal popups that showcase wine pairings with his culinary creations. Nevertheless, Chef Chuck remains open to new partnerships. He specifically mentions The Vintage Barrel and Coal Ridge Brewery as businesses he'd love to work with, encouraging anyone interested to reach out directly. The Power of Food Memories Throughout the conversation, Chef Chuck returns repeatedly to the concept of food memories—those powerful moments when a simple dish transports you to another time and place. "It can be a simple moment where you have a dish in front of you," he explains. "It could be in Tuscany. It could be at the top of a mountainside just having a ham and cheese sandwich, but that moment, that exhilaration of you just climbed up Old Rag Mountain and you have a cheese sandwich, and by God that is the best cheese sandwich because you are sitting on top of the known world at that point." These memories stick with people forever, whether they're teenagers or ninety years old. Consequently, Janet believes parents need to create more of these moments for their children, exposing them to the aromas and experiences that will become their own cherished food memories. Catering with Intention While COVID devastated the bakery's large-scale catering operations, Chef Chuck has found his sweet spot in wedding brunches. His pitch to couples is simple but compelling: at a wedding reception with 175 guests, newlyweds won't get quality time with Aunt Maggie. However, a brunch the next day allows them to sit, have coffee, and actually hear about her whale-watching trip. "Isn't that what weddings are about?" he asks. "It's just a unification of two people who have, against all odds, found love." Brunches also unite two families who may have nothing in common, giving them time to discover shared interests—like realizing they both golf and should play together sometime. For these events, Main Street Bakery arrives with coffee, creamer, quiche, muffins, scones, and seasonal pastries. Importantly, Chef Chuck sources as much as possible from local farmers, which sets his offerings apart from generic catering options. "You can tell a muffin from Costco," he notes. "It might as well have a red light that's flashing on it." The Kindness Economy One of the most touching stories Chef Chuck shares involves Tommy and Hannah Chang, who became regular customers after Main Street Bakery made them feel welcome in the community. When they noticed his outdated website, they brought in a videographer from DC with drones, track cameras, and steady cams. They spent an entire day filming and creating a professional website. When Chef Chuck reached for his checkbook, expecting a bill in the thousands, they refused payment. "You showed us kindness and here's kindness repaid," they told him. This exchange perfectly illustrates the reciprocal nature of community building that Chef Chuck champions. Similarly, regular customer Noel now works at the bakery and has become an exceptional salesperson. "People are like, 'Dude, I just wanted a cookie,'" Chef Chuck laughs, "and they walk out of there with three quiches, four bread puddings, and six breads. And they're feeling good about it." Looking Toward Retirement As Chef Chuck enters his sixties, retirement looms on the horizon. His plans? "I'm gonna smoke stuff and ferment things," he declares with a smile. This includes smoked meats, smoked fish, fermenting ales, wines, and exploring breads from different cultures around the world. More importantly, he hopes to find a venue where he can help people recapture the lost moments of generational knowledge transfer. "It used to be the grandmothers would teach the young ladies sewing and needlepoint and crafting," he reflects. "Guys would show their sons and grandsons how to hunt, how to fish, how to tie a lure on." These traditions are disappearing, and Chef Chuck worries that Page County's agrarian roots are being forgotten in the rush toward progress. Practical Information Main Street Bakery operates Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Located at 127 East Main Street in Luray, the bakery sits right at the top of the hill with flags out front—you can't miss it. While the bakery doesn't post menus online because offerings change frequently based on season and availability, customers can visit mainstreetbakery-catering.com/ for more information. The bakery maintains an active presence on Facebook and Instagram, where Chef Chuck's wife Janet showcases her exceptional food photography skills. Finally, Chef Chuck encourages customers to call ahead, especially near closing time. "If it's 4:45 and we close at five, call ahead and say, 'Hey, do you have three cookies that would really make my day?' I will stay open till you get there," he promises. "What's the worst thing that's gonna happen? I'm gonna say I just don't have that, but maybe tomorrow." The Bigger Picture As the conversation winds down, it becomes clear that Main Street Bakery represents something larger than artisan bread and chocolate chip cookies. It embodies a philosophy of community, collaboration, and connection—values that Chef Chuck believes are essential to preserving what makes small-town life special. In an era when people increasingly feel disconnected from their food sources and family traditions, Chef Chuck offers a simple remedy: walk through his door, breathe in the aroma of fresh-baked bread, and remember what it felt like when someone who loved you baked with care. That memory, that feeling, that moment of connection—that's what Main Street Bakery serves alongside every loaf, every muffin, every bowl of soup. And perhaps that's the most important recipe of all.

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Giovanna's Tuscan Quest: Secrets of Winemaking Unveiled Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-16-08-38-19-it Story Transcript:It: Giovanna guardava fuori dal finestrino del pullman.En: Giovanna looked out the window of the bus.It: Le colline toscane scorrevano come un dipinto animato.En: The Tuscan hills passed by like an animated painting.It: Era inverno, e i vigneti dormivano sotto il cielo pallido.En: It was winter, and the vineyards slept under the pale sky.It: La sua scuola aveva organizzato una gita all'azienda vinicola di Francesco, un luogo famoso per le sue tecniche tradizionali di vinificazione.En: Her school had organized a trip to Francesco's winery, a place famous for its traditional winemaking techniques.It: Appena arrivati, la cantina era un via vai di gente.En: As soon as they arrived, the winery was a bustle of people.It: Si svolgeva un vertice internazionale e le persone parlavano lingue diverse.En: An international summit was taking place, and people were speaking different languages.It: Giovanna era entusiasta ma un po' preoccupata.En: Giovanna was excited but a little worried.It: Doveva impressionare Francesco.En: She had to impress Francesco.It: Il suo progetto finale dipendeva da questo.En: Her final project depended on it.It: Lorenzo, il suo compagno, era meno interessato ai vini.En: Lorenzo, her classmate, was less interested in the wines.It: "Andiamo a vedere cosa c'è da mangiare," propose con un sorriso.En: "Let's go see what's there to eat," he proposed with a smile.It: Ma Giovanna aveva una missione.En: But Giovanna had a mission.It: Doveva parlare con Francesco.En: She had to talk to Francesco.It: Doveva vedere le botti, sentire l'odore dei mosti fermentati e prendere appunti.En: She needed to see the barrels, smell the fermenting musts, and take notes.It: Durante la visita, Francesco era molto occupato.En: During the visit, Francesco was very busy.It: Salutava i delegati, rispondeva alle domande, ma appena accennava ai segreti dei suoi vini.En: He greeted the delegates, answered questions, but only hinted at the secrets of his wines.It: Giovanna lo seguiva attentamente, sfogliando il suo quaderno.En: Giovanna followed him closely, leafing through her notebook.It: Ogni dettaglio era importante.En: Every detail was important.It: Quando la visita finì, gli studenti si prepararono a ripartire.En: When the visit ended, the students prepared to leave.It: Ma Giovanna non era soddisfatta.En: But Giovanna wasn't satisfied.It: Decise di prendere un rischio.En: She decided to take a risk.It: Sarebbe restata indietro.En: She would stay behind.It: Aspettò che Francesco finisse di chiudere per la sera.En: She waited for Francesco to finish closing for the evening.It: "Scusi," disse timidamente quando lui si avvicinò alla porta.En: "Excuse me," she said timidly when he approached the door.It: "Ho molte domande."En: "I have many questions."It: Gli mostrò le pagine fitte di note.En: She showed him the pages filled with notes.It: Francesco si fermò e sorrise.En: Francesco stopped and smiled.It: "Hai lavorato sodo," commentò, interessato.En: "You've worked hard," he commented, interested.It: "Domani mattina, prima che inizi il vertice, ti farò vedere tutto."En: "Tomorrow morning, before the summit starts, I'll show you everything."It: Giovanna non poteva crederci.En: Giovanna couldn't believe it.It: La sua determinazione era stata premiata.En: Her determination had been rewarded.It: Si sentiva viva, parte di qualcosa di più grande.En: She felt alive, part of something bigger.It: Quella notte, tornò in albergo con Lorenzo che la prendeva in giro bonariamente per il suo coraggio.En: That night, she returned to the hotel with Lorenzo teasing her good-naturedly for her bravery.It: Il giorno dopo, mentre la cantina era ancora silenziosa, Francesco guidava Giovanna attraverso le sale.En: The next day, while the winery was still silent, Francesco guided Giovanna through the halls.It: Le raccontò delle botti di rovere antiche, dei metodi tramandati nei secoli.En: He told her about the ancient oak barrels, about the methods passed down for centuries.It: Giovanna annuiva, il cuore leggero e la mente affamata di sapere.En: Giovanna nodded, her heart light and her mind hungry for knowledge.It: Alla fine della mattinata, ringraziò Francesco con un grande sorriso.En: At the end of the morning, she thanked Francesco with a big smile.It: Ora aveva tutto ciò che le serviva per il suo progetto e qualcosa di più: una fiducia nuova in se stessa.En: Now she had everything she needed for her project and something more: a new confidence in herself.It: E mentre il pullman lasciava la cantina, Giovanna guardava fuori, non più solo osservando il paesaggio, ma immaginando il suo futuro, luminoso come un sorgere del sole sulle colline toscane.En: And as the bus left the winery, Giovanna looked out, no longer just observing the landscape, but imagining her future, bright as a sunrise over the Tuscan hills. Vocabulary Words:the window: il finestrinothe vineyards: i vignetithe trip: la gitathe winery: la cantinathe summit: il verticethe barrels: le bottithe fermenting musts: i mosti fermentatinotebook: il quadernothe landscape: il paesaggiotraditional techniques: tecniche tradizionalithe delegates: i delegatithe secrets: i segretithe confidence: la fiduciaanimated painting: dipinto animatothe risk: il rischioquestion: domandathe proposal: la propostathe aroma: l'odorethe smile: il sorrisoimpressed: impressionatarewarded: premiatathe oak barrels: le botti di roverethe details: i dettaglithe project: il progettohalls: le salehungry for knowledge: affamata di saperelight heart: cuore leggerointernational: internazionaletimidly: timidamentesatisfied: soddisfatta

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Love Blossoms: Luca's Valentine's Day Epiphany Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-14-23-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Luca cammina lungo il sentiero della fattoria di fiori, il vento freddo dell'inverno accarezza il suo viso.En: Luca walks along the path of the flower farm, the cold winter wind brushing against his face.It: Il sole di febbraio splende, ma non scalda.En: The February sun shines, but it doesn't warm.It: I campi sono pieni di fiori di inverno e qua e là si vede una leggera brina sugli ulivi antichi.En: The fields are full of winter flowers, and here and there a light frost can be seen on the ancient olive trees.It: Oggi è San Valentino, ma Luca è scettico riguardo all'amore.En: Today is Valentine's Day, but Luca is skeptical about love.It: Passate delusioni lo hanno reso diffidente.En: Past disappointments have made him wary.It: Mentre cammina, nota qualcosa di strano sul sentiero: un sentiero di petali a forma di cuore.En: As he walks, he notices something strange on the path: a trail of petals in a heart shape.It: Si snoda dal vecchio casolare e si perde tra gli ulivi.En: It winds from the old farmhouse and loses itself among the olive trees.It: Luca si ferma e osserva, combattuto tra la curiosità e la paura di essere ferito di nuovo.En: Luca stops and observes, torn between curiosity and the fear of being hurt again.It: Si chiede chi possa aver creato il sentiero e perché.En: He wonders who might have created the trail and why.It: È un gioco?En: Is it a game?It: Un gesto d'amicizia?En: A gesture of friendship?It: Oppure qualcosa di più profondo?En: Or something deeper?It: Sofia, sua amica, è spesso a lavorare nei campi.En: Sofia, his friend, often works in the fields.It: Luca sospetta che lei possa avere qualcosa a che fare con i petali.En: Luca suspects that she might have something to do with the petals.It: E poi c'è Marco, il suo migliore amico.En: And then there's Marco, his best friend.It: Potrebbero essere loro, ma per quale motivo?En: Could it be them, but for what reason?It: Decide, contro ogni logica, di seguire il sentiero.En: Against all logic, he decides to follow the path.It: Ogni passo è un misto di esitazione e voglia di scoprire la verità.En: Each step is a mix of hesitation and a desire to discover the truth.It: Alla fine del sentiero, nell'oliveto antico, Luca trova una sorpresa: Sofia e Marco lo aspettano con un picnic preparato con cura.En: At the end of the path, in the ancient olive grove, Luca finds a surprise: Sofia and Marco waiting for him with a carefully prepared picnic.It: Coperte, dolci e un piccolo cesto colmo di delizie.En: Blankets, sweets, and a small basket full of delights.It: "Sofia, hai fatto tutto questo?"En: "Sofia, did you do all this?"It: chiede Luca incredulo.En: Luca asks incredulously.It: La sua voce è un misto di sorpresa e speranza.En: His voice is a mix of surprise and hope.It: Sofia sorride e gli porge una lettera.En: Sofia smiles and hands him a letter.It: Luca la legge, lentamente.En: Luca reads it, slowly.It: Sono parole di affetto, piene di sentimenti sinceri.En: They are words of affection, full of sincere feelings.It: La paura di Luca si scioglie come la brina al sole.En: Luca's fear melts away like the frost in the sun.It: Marco osserva in silenzio, come se già sapesse dove tutto questo porterà il suo amico.En: Marco watches in silence, as if he already knows where this will lead his friend.It: "Ho voluto dirtelo da tempo", dice Sofia timidamente.En: "I've wanted to tell you for a long time," says Sofia timidly.It: "So che hai paura di amare..." Luca guarda Sofia negli occhi.En: "I know you're afraid to love..." Luca looks into Sofia's eyes.It: E in quel momento scorge qualcosa di nuovo, di vero.En: And at that moment he sees something new, something real.It: Decide di lasciar andare il passato, di accogliere la possibilità di amore, anche se questo significa essere vulnerabile.En: He decides to let go of the past, to embrace the possibility of love, even if it means being vulnerable.It: "Grazie, Sofia", mormora Luca.En: "Thank you, Sofia," Luca murmurs.It: "Voglio provarci."En: "I want to try."It: Sofia gli sorride, un sorriso che parla di amore e comprensione, un nuovo inizio per entrambi.En: Sofia smiles at him, a smile that speaks of love and understanding, a new beginning for both.It: Tra gli ulivi, con il calore di un'amicizia trasformata in qualcosa di più, Luca scopre la bellezza nel lasciare andare la paura e accogliere l'amore.En: Among the olive trees, with the warmth of a friendship transformed into something more, Luca discovers the beauty in letting go of fear and embracing love.It: Così, in quella giornata di San Valentino, Luca finalmente sceglie l'amore e una nuova promessa nasce sotto il sole invernale della Toscana.En: Thus, on that Valentine's Day, Luca finally chooses love, and a new promise is born under the winter sun of Tuscany. Vocabulary Words:the path: il sentierothe wind: il ventoto brush: accarezzarethe frost: la brinato be skeptical: essere scetticothe disappointment: la delusionethe petal: il petaloto wind: snodarsithe farmhouse: il casolareto observe: osservareto be torn: essere combattutothe curiosity: la curiositàthe fear: la paurathe friendship: l'amiciziato suspect: sospettarethe hesitation: l'esitazioneto discover: scoprirethe truth: la veritàthe grove: l'olivetothe picnic: il picnicthe basket: il cestothe delight: la deliziato hand: porgereaffection: l'affettoto melt: sciogliersito be vulnerable: essere vulnerabileto murmur: mormorarethe understanding: la comprensionethe warmth: il caloreto embrace: accogliere

Friday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Catherine Ricci, 1522-1589; entered the convent of the Dominican nuns at Prat in Tuscany, in her fourteenth year; while very young, she was chosen Mistress of Novices, then subprioress, and at twenty-five years of age she became perpetual prioress; her sanctity drew many to her side, including three who would later serve as pope; she experienced the "Ecstacy of the Passion" each week from Thursday noon until Friday at 4 p.m. for twelve years Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 2/13/26 Gospel: Mark 7:31-37

Winter is doing winter things in New England, with snow, trainer miles, and a whole lot of basement fitness. In this February Endurance Nation update, Coach Patrick checks in on what's happening across the team, what he's building toward personally, and what's coming next for athletes looking for big adventures in 2025. Inside this episode: How the Endurance Nation team is evolving, including Ironman, gravel, and a growing wave of Hyrox and hybrid athletes Why Season Roadmaps matter more than weekly hours or TSS, and how they keep your training pointed at the right target Coach Patrick's own training reset as he builds for the Oregon Gravel Grinder stage race Lessons learned from going too hard, too early, and how to avoid the boom and bust season A deep dive into Endurance Nation's Tuscany gravel camp with Avanti Tours, taking place June 13 to 20, featuring Strade Bianche roads, epic rides, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences Whether you're chasing Kona, Leadville, your first 70.3, or simply a stronger and more durable season, this episode is about training with intention, staying focused through winter, and building toward something that truly matters. This episode is also available on YouTube. Tuscany Camp details can be found at avantitours.com. Train smart. Stay consistent. Work works.

In this episode, we visit Pogliani Select, purveyors of artisanal, estate‑grown olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars sourced directly from small family farms across Italy and Croatia. From the hills of Tuscany and the groves along the Adriatic to a tasting room in the Catskills, we explore how these Old‑World traditions travel across continents — and why the craft behind them matters.This conversation is part tasting, part education, and part journey into the people, places, and practices that shape truly exceptional oils and balsamics.What We Cover

SummaryIn this episode of the Bella Italy podcast, hosts Brian and Anthony explore the central regions of Italy, focusing on Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio. They discuss the unique characteristics of each region, the importance of local experiences, and the culinary delights that await travelers. The conversation emphasizes the value of slowing down and immersing oneself in the culture, rather than just ticking off tourist attractions. Trivia questions and fun facts about Italy are interspersed throughout the discussion, making it both informative and entertaining.TakeawaysTraveling well in Italy requires understanding its regions.Umbria is often overlooked but offers rich experiences.Tuscany is known for its wine and food diversity.Rome and Florence are popular but not the only destinations.Local experiences create memorable travel moments.Italian cuisine is simple yet flavorful, focusing on quality ingredients.Travelers should seek out local dishes unique to each region.Avoid tourist traps by exploring lesser-known towns.The importance of slowing down to appreciate the journey.Traveling in Italy is about the experience, not just the sights.KeywordsItaly, travel, Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, Bella Italy, food, culture, tourism, travel tipsS05E08 The Heart and Soul of Italy: Tuscany, Umbria, Marche and Lazio https://italywithbella.com

Wine Barrels, Duomo Marble, and Florence: Paoletti Custom Guitars at NAMM 2026I've been away from Florence for 25 years. I didn't know there was a guitar company like this back home.At NAMM 2026, I found Filippo Martini from Paoletti Custom Guitars—a boutique manufacturer based in the heart of Tuscany, building instruments that are equal parts guitar and artwork.Paoletti does something no one else does: they build guitars from chestnut wood sourced from Italian wine barrels. The material offers a wide harmonic spectrum, but it's difficult to work with. You need to know how to handle it. Founder Fabrizio Paoletti figured it out, and now every guitar they produce shows the natural grain—no opaque finishes, no hiding the wood.The craftsmanship runs deep. Bridges, pickguards, pickups—all made in-house. Necks carved from Canadian maple, roasted on-site. 99% of the process happens in Tuscany. As Filippo put it, "Kilometer zero." Zero miles. Everything local except the screws.Their model is 100% custom. You don't buy a Paoletti off the rack. You tell them your style, your sound, the genre you play. They build around your vision while keeping the Italian essence intact—chestnut wood, Italian-made components, tailored to your idea.But what stopped me cold was the Duomo collection.Eight individual guitars, each hand-engraved by Fabrizio Paoletti himself. Three years of work. The subject: Florence's cathedral—the Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore.This isn't just decoration. Paoletti secured an official partnership with the Opera del Duomo, the authority that oversees the cathedral. The back of each guitar reproduces the marble floor pattern from inside the Duomo. And when the collection is complete this October, every guitar will contain an actual piece of marble from the cathedral.I got shivers standing there.This is what happens when guitar making meets Italian heritage. It's not about specs or market positioning. It's about place, history, and craft passed down through generations.Filippo invited me to visit the workshop in Florence when I return in April. I'm going. I want to see where this happens—where wine barrel wood becomes an instrument, where cathedral marble gets embedded into a guitar body, where a team of artisans builds one-of-one pieces for players around the world.Florence is known for many things. Leather. Art. Architecture. The Renaissance itself. Now I know it's also home to some of the most distinctive guitars being made anywhere.Paoletti proves that boutique doesn't mean small ambitions. They're partnering with galleries in Dubai, working with the Duomo authorities, and bringing Florence to NAMM.Not bad for a company I didn't even know existed until I walked the show floor and heard an Italian accent.Sometimes you find home in unexpected places.Marco Ciappelli interviews Filippo Martini from Paoletti Custom Guitars at NAMM 2026 for ITSPmagazine.Part of ITSPmagazine's On Location Coverage at NAMM 2026.

Carlo Rovelli's quest to understand the nature of reality began not in a physics lab, but in youthful experiments with consciousness, political protest and a restless hunger for meaning—years before he “fell madly in love with physics.” Today, Rovelli is famous for his bestselling books, including "Seven Brief Lessons on Physics" and "Reality Is Not What It Seems," and his pioneering work on some of the biggest mysteries in physics, including black holes and quantum gravity. In a wide-ranging conversation, Steve Paulson talks with Rovelli about his early, profound experiences with LSD; his discovery of the "spectacular" beauty of general relativity and quantum mechanics; his lifelong search for purpose in both the cosmos and his own life; and why scientists need to be politically engaged. Carlo also tells us about the big idea that he'd put in our own wonder cabinet.This interview was recorded at the Island of Knowledge think tank in Tuscany, a project supported by Dartmouth College and the John Templeton Foundation. We also play a short excerpt from Anne Strainchamps' earlier interview with Rovelli that originally aired on Wisconsin Public Radio's To The Best Of Our Knowledge. This Wonder Cabinet episode was not funded, endorsed or affiliated with Wisconsin Public Media or the University of Wisconsin - Madison.--- Deep Time: Carlo Rovelli's white holes, where time dissolves: https://www.ttbook.org/interview/carlo-rovellis-white-holes-where-time-dissolves More from Carlo Rovelli: https://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~rovelli/ ---00:00:00 Introduction & The Chirp of Black Holes00:04:10 Early Years in Verona00:10:00 Falling in Love with Physics00:17:30 Search for Truth00:25:05 Politics of Wonder---Wonder Cabinet is hosted by Anne Strainchamps and Steve Paulson.Find out more about the show at https://wondercabinetproductions.com, where you can subscribe to the podcast and our newsletter.  Wonder Cabinet is hosted by Anne Strainchamps and Steve Paulson. Find out more about the show at https://wondercabinetproductions.com, where you can subscribe to the podcast and our newsletter.

Send us a textSometimes the most meaningful collaborations don't start as collaborations at all.Marnie and Patrick originally came to Staci as clients. Two passionate, creative humans who loved each other deeply, but could feel that love alone wasn't going to carry them through blended family stress, real-life pressure, and the places where communication gets messy.Fast forward, and they're not only thriving, they're living proof of what happens when people learn skills they were never taught.In this conversation, we sit down with Marnie and Patrick to talk about the real work of building a relationship that lasts: emotional safety, voice, honest repair, and learning how to stay close even when life is loud.In this episode, we talk about:How “magic” can be real and still not be enough on its ownThe moment you hit the bottom of your bag of tricks and realize you need skillsThe “gap” where assumptions grow and relationships drift (and how to close it)What changes when you learn to say the thing… kindly, clearly, and without explodingWhy emotional safety is the foundation for blended families, grief, and big life transitionsNovelty vs. grounding: how couples stop fighting their differences and start using themA simple but powerful truth: nobody completes you, but the right partnership can expand youWhy so many people hit a crisis around 40, and what's actually happening underneath itThe difference between a “travel itinerary” and an experience that helps you remember you like each otherWant to join us in Tuscany? We're co-creating a couples retreat in a thousand-year-old castle in Tuscany, Italy. It's part romance, part relationship skills, part sensory reset. Slow mornings, incredible food, a space that helps you exhale, and daily relationship sessions designed to bring you back to each other.Book/save your room (only 7 couples): https://stacibartley.com/couples-retreatWant to taste what Marnie + Patrick create? You can order Solstice Savory Pies online (they ship nationwide) and bring a little “break bread together” energy to your own kitchen.Order here: https://solsticesavorypies.com/Want support choosing what's next? If you're not sure what you need right now, book a clarity call and we'll help you find your best next step.Clarity Call: https://stacibartley.com/applyAnd if this episode moved you, share it with someone you care about. Human to human is how this work spreads.Timestamps: 04:05 Navigating Blended Families05:54 Transformative Relationship Skills08:08 Balancing Individuality and Partnership14:13 The Challenges of Modern Relationships20:47 Generational Perspectives on Relationships29:15 Gratitude for Supportive Partners30:29 A Strong Partnership30:52 Tuscany Retreats: A Journey Begins32:18 The Magic of the Castle33:50 Immersive Experiences36:25 Slowing Down in Tuscany38:12 Etruscan History and Exploration42:48 Creating Forever Memories54:46 Savory Pies and Final Thoughts

Ordinary to Extraordinary: Rainbow Trout // Valentine’s Menu Inspirations: Three Different Lenses // Chef Danilo Amato guides us through Tuscany’s Maremma region and the craft of making olive oil with PicNic Table Italy // The Hot Stove Society Tasting Panel dives into fresh, vibrant salsas // Internationally acclaimed pastry chef and psychologist Helen Goh joins us with her new book Baking and the Meaning of Life: How to Find Joy in 100 Recipes // And of course, we’ll wrap up the show with Food for Thought: Tasty Trivia!

Welcome back to the second half of Season 6 of Wine & Chisme. Before diving into this special festival episode, host Jessica Yañez addresses the current state of our nation and the importance of community solidarity during these challenging times. In this episode, Jessica takes you to the O'wineside Baja Wine Festival, the second annual celebration of Mexican wine and Baja California's culinary spirit held in Oceanside, California. Join her as she connects with vintners from Valle de Guadalupe and shares their incredible stories and wines with you. Episode Highlights: A heartfelt message about current events and community resilience Behind-the-scenes footage from the O'wineside Baja Wine Festival Exclusive interviews with Baja California vintners An introduction to Mexico's premier wine region: Valle de Guadalupe Event Details: When: October 2024 (Second Annual Event) Where: Valle Oceanside at Mission Pacific Beach Resort, Pacific Lawn, Oceanside, CA Hosted by: MICHELIN-starred Chef Roberto Alcocer in partnership with La Competencia Distributing Featured: 27+ premium Baja California wineries Wines Tasted: 80+ wines from Valle de Guadalupe Culinary Experience: Gourmet bites featuring Imperia Caviar, 5 Jotas Jamón Ibérico, and Harbor Pelican Fish Market Baja Oysters Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico's premier wine-producing region, often called "the Tuscany of Mexico" or compared to Napa Valley from decades past. Key Facts: Location: Just 90 minutes south of San Diego and 14 miles north of Ensenada Production: Produces approximately 90% of all Mexican wine Number of Wineries: Nearly 200 wineries (as of 2024) Climate: Mediterranean-like climate with proximity to the Pacific Ocean Elevation: Vineyards planted at altitudes between 1,000-1,250 feet History: Wine production dating back to 1791 when Jesuit priests began growing grapes Popular Grape Varieties: White: Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Colombard Red: Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Merlot, Malbec, Zinfandel, Barbera What Makes Valle de Guadalupe Special: Boutique artisan wineries with unique personalities Farm-to-table "campestre" (countryside) restaurants Baja Med cuisine movement Rustic charm forged from rugged desert landscape Small-batch, handcrafted wine production Rich cultural history with Russian, Italian, and Spanish influences Note: While Jessica wasn't able to feature every winery in attendance, this episode showcases several exceptional Baja California wine brands. Full list to be updated as featured in the episode. Learn More About Valle de Guadalupe: Valle de Guadalupe is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the Americas The region holds an annual Fiestas de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival) Most Valle de Guadalupe wines are consumed within Mexico and rarely exported to the US US Customs Information for Wine: California residents: 2 bottles per person duty-free Non-California residents: Up to 5 cases of wine allowed Always declare your purchases and follow customs regulations This episode begins with a powerful message about recent events affecting our community. Jessica honors the names of those we've lost: Renee Nicole Good Alex Pretti Luis Gustavo Nuñes Cáceres Geraldo Lunas Campos Victor Manuel Diaz Parady La Luis Beltrán Yañez-Cruz Heber Sanchez Dominguez Liam Ramos and countless others still being held in detention centers The Wine & Chisme Podcast creates an intimate space where professionals, artists, and changemakers across communities of color share their unfiltered stories of career, love, and personal transformation—all over a glass of wine and genuine conversation. Connect with Wine & Chisme: Website: www.thewineandchismepodcast.com Instagram: @thewineandchisme Host & Creator: Jessica Yañez Episode Theme: O'wineside Baja Wine Festival Season: 6 Production: Jessica Yañez

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Tuscany's Unexpected Treasure: A Journey Beyond Truffles Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-04-08-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Le colline della Toscana erano coperte da un leggero strato di neve, dipingendo un paesaggio incantevole e silenzioso.En: The hills of Toscana were covered with a light layer of snow, painting an enchanting and silent landscape.It: Gli alberi di ulivo e le viti, spogli dal freddo inverno, creavano ombre lunghi sulle strade sterrate.En: The olive trees and vines, bare from the cold winter, cast long shadows on the dirt roads.It: Giovanni camminava con aria determinata, il suo bastone da camminata affondava nella terra soffice.En: Giovanni walked with a determined air, his walking stick sinking into the soft ground.It: Accanto a lui, sua figlia Maria cercava di tenere il passo, mentre il loro cane, un esperto cercatore di tartufi, annusava il terreno con fervore.En: Beside him, his daughter Maria tried to keep up, while their dog, an expert truffle hunter, sniffed the ground with fervor.It: "Speriamo che oggi troviamo una bella sorpresa," disse Giovanni con un sorriso speranzoso.En: "Let's hope we find a nice surprise today," said Giovanni with a hopeful smile.It: Sognava di scoprire il tartufo più grande della stagione per suscitare l'invidia di tutti gli altri cercatori del paese.En: He dreamed of discovering the largest truffle of the season to arouse the envy of all the other searchers in town.It: Maria sbuffò, poco convinta.En: Maria huffed, unconvinced.It: "Papà, magari oggi dovremmo solo goderci la passeggiata," suggerì lei, osservando le nuvole bianche che correvano lente nel cielo.En: "Dad, maybe today we should just enjoy the walk," she suggested, watching the white clouds slowly moving in the sky.It: Il cane, di nome Fido, improvvisamente iniziò ad abbaiare e a scavare in un punto specifico del terreno.En: The dog, named Fido, suddenly began to bark and dig at a specific spot in the ground.It: Giovanni si avvicinò eccitato, pensando che Fido avesse scoperto il profumo di un grande tartufo.En: Giovanni approached excitedly, thinking that Fido had caught the scent of a large truffle.It: Con grande sorpresa, invece, trovò un vecchio scarpa sporca di terra.En: To their great surprise, however, they found an old shoe covered in dirt.It: "Non è certo un tartufo!"En: "Certainly not a truffle!"It: esclamò Maria, ridacchiando.En: exclaimed Maria, chuckling.It: Ma Giovanni, con uno sguardo da investigatore, si grattò il mento pensieroso.En: But Giovanni, with an investigative look, scratched his chin thoughtfully.It: "Non può finire qui," mormorò.En: "It can't end here," he murmured.It: Decisero così di scavare ancora un po', mentre Maria osservava con scetticismo.En: So, they decided to dig a bit more, while Maria watched skeptically.It: Luigi, il vicino dalla grande collezione di monete romane, li raggiunse attratto dai rumori.En: Luigi, the neighbor with a large collection of Roman coins, joined them, attracted by the noise.It: "Avete trovato qualcosa di interessante?"En: "Have you found something interesting?"It: chiese curioso.En: he asked curiously.It: Dopo alcuni minuti di scavo, il trio scoprì un vecchio contenitore sepolto.En: After a few minutes of digging, the trio discovered an old container buried.It: Luccicava di un tenue riflesso dorato sotto la neve.En: It shimmered with a faint golden reflection under the snow.It: "Un tesoro!"En: "A treasure!"It: esclamò Giovanni con occhi spalancati, mentre Maria alzava gli occhi al cielo.En: exclaimed Giovanni with wide eyes, while Maria rolled her eyes.It: Loro raccolsero il contenitore con cura e si sedettero tutti e tre circondati dalla tranquillità delle colline.En: They carefully collected the container and sat down, all three surrounded by the tranquility of the hills.It: Aprirono il tempo contenitore e all'interno trovarono vecchi giocattoli, fotografie sbiadite e letterine scritte da bambini di molto tempo fa.En: They opened the timeworn container and inside they found old toys, faded photographs, and little letters written by children from long ago.It: Pieni di stupore, si misero a sfogliare quei ricordi.En: Full of wonder, they began to peruse those memories.It: Una risata contagiò il gruppo quando lessero alcuni dei messaggi, ricchi di sogni infantili e ingenue promesse di amicizia eterna.En: A laughter spread through the group as they read some of the messages, rich with childhood dreams and naïve promises of eternal friendship.It: Giovanni sorrise, tenendo in mano un piccolo robot di latta.En: Giovanni smiled, holding a small tin robot.It: "A volte, la strada è più importante della destinazione," disse, guardando sua figlia.En: "Sometimes, the journey is more important than the destination," he said, looking at his daughter.It: "E ciò che abbiamo scoperto qui oggi è altrettanto prezioso di qualunque tartufo."En: "And what we have discovered here today is as precious as any truffle."It: Maria annuì, abbracciandolo.En: Maria nodded, hugging him.It: Mentre la luce del tramonto accarezzava dolcemente le colline, capirono che quella scoperta aveva dato loro una ricchezza inaspettata: il piacere della sorpresa e il valore dei legami.En: As the sunset light gently caressed the hills, they understood that this discovery had given them an unexpected wealth: the pleasure of surprise and the value of bonds.It: Mentre camminavano verso casa, l'aria era piena di gioia e nuove amicizie, proprio come le storie nel tempo contenitore.En: As they walked home, the air was filled with joy and new friendships, just like the stories in the timeworn container. Vocabulary Words:the hills: le collinelay­er: lo stratoenchanting: incantevoleshad­ows: ombredetermin­ed: determinatathe dog: il canetruffle hunter: cercatore di tartufito evoke: suscitareenvy: invidiaskeptical­ly: con scetticismothe nei­ghbor: il vicinocollection: collezionecuri­ous: curiosoquivering: luccicavathe treasure: il tesorotimeworn: tempothe hills: le collinefaded: sbiaditeto peruse: sfogliarememories: ricordilaughter: risatachildhood dreams: sogni infantilitin robot: robot di lattajourney: la stradadestination: la destinazionebonds: legamisunset: tramontolight: lucesurprise: sorpresafriendships: amicizie

In the rolling hills of Tuscany, where olive groves whisper ancient secrets and cypress trees stand sentinel over timeless landscapes, there exists a bread as humble and enduring as the region itself: Tuscan Bread, the iconic unsalted bread known locally as "foolish bread." This rustic loaf, with its thick, crackling crust and soft, airy crumb dotted with irregular holes, has been a cornerstone of Tuscan tables for centuries, embodying the philosophy of cucina povera—simple, resourceful cooking that transforms basic ingredients into something profound. The story of Pane Toscano begins in the Middle Ages, amid the fierce rivalries of Italy's city-states, when salt, a precious commodity used to preserve food, became a weapon in economic warfare. One enduring legend traces its saltless nature to the 12th-century feud between Florence and its coastal rival, Pisa, which controlled vital trade routes and imposed crippling blockades or exorbitant taxes on salt shipments to the inland republic, making the ingredient prohibitively expensive for ordinary bakers and families. Rather than yield, Florentines defiantly baked their bread without it, an act of rebellion that evolved into a cherished tradition. Other tales suggest that high salt taxes across the region, or the frugality of peasant farmers who reserved scarce salt for curing prosciutto, salami, and pecorino cheeses, led to the same outcome. Whatever the precise origin, the absence of salt proved brilliantly suited to Tuscany's bold, flavorful cuisine—rich stews, salty cured meats, and pungent cheeses that would overwhelm a salted loaf—allowing the bread to serve as a neutral canvas for soaking up sauces in the beloved scarpetta ritual or starring in recycled masterpieces like ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup), tomato-bread porridge, and panzanella (summer salad of stale bread, tomatoes, and basil). Without salt, the bread also stales quickly, encouraging this ingenious no-waste ethos central to Tuscan life. Today, authentic Tuscan bread carries a Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) status, ensuring it's made with specific flours, natural leavening, and no salt, often in wood-fired ovens for that signature reddish-brown crust. Yet its simplicity—just flour, water, and yeast—makes it remarkably accessible to recreate at home, yielding a large, round bozza or elongated filone that stays fresh for days before transforming into culinary gold when stale. Read the complete shownotes content hereMore Podcasts HereProduced + Published by SimVal Media Group, USA

We are excited to invite Mathia Milani back for another episode on the Mangu.tv podcast series. Mathia Milani is one of the founders of Tierra Iris, a living ecosystem rooted in Ibiza and expanding beyond it. What began as an experiment in regenerative farming has grown into an ongoing practice of community living — where land, relationships, and shared responsibility are learned through daily life. Tierra Iris brings together creative and conscious people to explore what it truly means to live and work together: navigating care, conflict, commitment, and reciprocity in alignment with natural cycles. It is both a home and a learning field — imperfect, alive, and continuously evolving. In addition, he is developing a retreat centre in Tuscany called Madre Selva.Mathia speaks about experimental living, sharing some of the challenging moments he experienced during the process of creating and growing Tierra Iris. Giancarlo and Mathia discuss the impact of community living, sharing their own experiences of spaces in Ibiza,  and the benefits of these places for growth and development. Mathia shares his plans for his new project, Madre Selva, a retreat centre in Tuscany and speaks about the space and the practices they intend to share from there.

What makes a wine feel soulful, transporting you beyond taste into a deeper emotional connection? What does experiencing harvest firsthand reveal about winemaking that never show up in books? What makes Northern Rhône Syrah come across as black peppery, smoky, and reminiscent of pastrami? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jordan Salcito who has published Smart Mouth: Wine Essentials for You, Me, & Everyone We Know, which was just selected as one of the best wine books of the year by the New York Times. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.   Giveaway Three of you are going to win a copy of Jordan Salcito's terrific new book, Smart Mouth: Wine Essentials for You, Me, and Everyone We Know. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights How did Jordan's father shape her earliest understanding of wine as family and connection? How did working at Restaurant Daniel shift how Jordan understands wine, fine dining, and food and wine pairing? What does Jordan mean when she describes certain wines as soulful? What's the difference between the old world approach focused on place and the new world approach focused on control and construction? Why did working harvests in Burgundy teach Jordan that could never be learned from books? How did molecular gastronomy pioneer Wylie Dufresne help her see restaurants as a legitimate intellectual and creative path? How did an early rejection from The New York Times become a signal to redirect her goals? Why did failing the advanced sommelier tasting exam become the foundation for eventually passing the Master Sommelier tasting on her first attempt?   About Jordan Salcito Jordan Salcito is an award-winning sommelier, author, and entrepreneur. A wine industry veteran, she has over a decade of experience as a sommelier at restaurants including Momofuku, Restaurant Daniel, and Eleven Madison Park (where she was part of the team to win the award for Outstanding Wine Service from the James Beard Foundation). Her wine programs at Momofuku were regularly recognized in The New York Times, Eater, and Food & Wine, and were named "Most Creative Wine List in the World" by the World of Fine Wine magazine. Long a student of wine, Salcito passed the tasting portion of the Master Sommelier exam on her first attempt and feels fortunate to have learned so much though working harvests at world-renowned wineries in Burgundy, Tuscany, California and Patagonia. A pioneer of the ready-to-drink beverage category with her organic Italian spritz company, Drink RAMONA, Salcito will also publish her first book, Smart Mouth: Wine Essentials for You, Me, & Everyone We Know, with Penguin Random House's Ten Speed Press this October. Jordan lives in Paris with her family.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/374.

Well we don't get to all five of them, but lively conversation here about how to plan (and not plan) you're next Italian adventure. Check out our free guide to unlock Tuscany and avoid all five of these mistakes here: https://unlocktuscany.com/ Iole and Andrew banter about the best small airports, what's real and what's AI and of course, the word of the day! Listen in.

Fluent Fiction - Italian: From Mists to Triumph: Alessia's Epic Truffle Quest Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-01-22-23-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Alessia camminava con passi lenti nella foresta toscana, avvolta da una leggera nebbia mattutina.En: Alessia walked with slow steps in the Tuscany forest, wrapped in a light morning mist.It: L'aria era fredda e pungente.En: The air was cold and biting.It: La foresta, con i suoi alberi spessi e alti, creava un'atmosfera intima e solitaria.En: The forest, with its thick and tall trees, created an intimate and solitary atmosphere.It: Tra gli alberi, il suono dei passi di Alessia era soffocato dalle foglie morte ricoperte da un velo di brina.En: Among the trees, the sound of Alessia's footsteps was muffled by the dead leaves covered by a veil of frost.It: Era inverno, la stagione più dura per la caccia al tartufo.En: It was winter, the hardest season for truffle hunting.It: Ma Alessia, con il suo cane Luna al suo fianco, era determinata.En: But Alessia, with her dog Luna by her side, was determined.It: Doveva trovare il tartufo bianco perfetto, il tartufo che avrebbe dimostrato a sé stessa e alla sua comunità che poteva portare avanti l'eredità di famiglia.En: She had to find the perfect white truffle, the truffle that would prove to herself and her community that she could carry on the family legacy.It: Riccardo, un amico di famiglia, le aveva dato qualche consiglio.En: Riccardo, a family friend, had given her some advice.It: "Segui i sentieri," aveva detto.En: "Follow the paths," he had said.It: "Ma segui anche il tuo istinto."En: "But also follow your instinct."It: Giulia, la sorella minore di Alessia, era rimasta a casa a preparare il pranzo, fiduciosa che Alessia avrebbe avuto successo.En: Giulia, Alessia's younger sister, stayed at home to prepare lunch, confident that Alessia would succeed.It: Alessia guardava Luna, il suo fedele compagno a quattro zampe.En: Alessia looked at Luna, her faithful four-legged companion.It: Luna annusava l'aria, concentrato e attento.En: Luna sniffed the air, focused and attentive.It: Alessia si affidava a Luna per guidarla verso il successo.En: Alessia relied on Luna to guide her to success.It: Aveva già camminato per ore, ma nulla.En: She had already walked for hours, but nothing.It: La foresta sembrava nascondere i suoi tesori con più tenacia del solito.En: The forest seemed to hide its treasures with more tenacity than usual.It: Quando il sole iniziò a salire, Alessia si fermò.En: When the sun began to rise, Alessia stopped.It: "Dobbiamo andare più in là," disse a Luna, traendo coraggio dalla sua determinazione.En: "We need to go further," she said to Luna, drawing courage from her determination.It: Luna, come sempre, felice di accompagnarla, iniziò a inoltrarsi oltre il sentiero conosciuto.En: Luna, as always, happy to accompany her, began to venture beyond the known path.It: Camminavano tra alberi che sembravano stringersi in un abbraccio stretto.En: They walked among trees that seemed to close in a tight embrace.It: L'atmosfera era quasi magica, mentre i suoni della foresta si pronunciavano nell'aria immobile.En: The atmosphere was almost magical, as the sounds of the forest echoed in the still air.It: Ad un tratto, Luna si bloccò.En: Suddenly, Luna stopped.It: Cominciò a scavare con fervore in un punto poco appariscente.En: She began to dig eagerly at an unassuming spot.It: Alessia si avvicinò, il cuore battente con una speranza che cercava di non reprimere.En: Alessia approached, her heart pounding with a hope she tried not to suppress.It: Si inginocchiò accanto a Luna e cominciò a scavare con le mani.En: She knelt beside Luna and began to dig with her hands.It: Il terreno era freddo, ma Alessia era determinata.En: The ground was cold, but Alessia was determined.It: Dopo pochi minuti, sentì qualcosa sotto le dita.En: After a few minutes, she felt something beneath her fingers.It: Tirò fuori un tartufo bianco, grande e intatto.En: She pulled out a white truffle, large and intact.It: Un perfetto esemplare, raro per quel periodo dell'anno.En: A perfect specimen, rare for that time of year.It: Il sollievo e la gioia inondarono Alessia.En: Relief and joy flooded Alessia.It: Aveva trovato il suo tesoro.En: She had found her treasure.It: Aveva seguito il suo istinto e aveva successo.En: She had followed her instinct and succeeded.It: Mentre tornava verso casa con Luna al suo fianco, sentiva una nuova sicurezza.En: As she headed back home with Luna by her side, she felt a new confidence.It: Sapeva che poteva mantenere viva la tradizione di famiglia.En: She knew she could keep the family tradition alive.It: Quando raggiunse il villaggio, fu accolta come un'eroina.En: When she reached the village, she was welcomed as a heroine.It: Giulia e Riccardo la abbracciarono con orgoglio.En: Giulia and Riccardo embraced her with pride.It: Alessia aveva dimostrato a sé stessa di avere la forza e la capacità di continuare l'eredità di suo padre.En: Alessia had proven to herself that she had the strength and ability to continue her father's legacy.It: Aveva scoperto non solo un tartufo, ma anche la sua fiducia.En: She had discovered not only a truffle but also her confidence. Vocabulary Words:the mist: la nebbiathe atmosphere: l'atmosferabiting: pungentethe frost: la brinathe legacy: l'ereditàthe instinct: l'istintothe lunch: il pranzofaithful: fedelethe four-legged: a quattro zampethe tenacity: la tenaciato venture: inoltrarsibeyond: oltretight embrace: abbraccio strettomagical: magicato dig: scavareeagerly: con fervoreunassuming: poco appariscentethe specimen: l'esemplarethe relief: il sollievothe hope: la speranzato suppress: reprimereintact: intattothe treasure: il tesoroto rely on: affidarsi athe confidence: la fiduciathe heroine: l'eroinato prove: dimostrareto succeed: avere successoto kneel: inginocchiarsithe forest: la foresta

Any takeaways from this episode?College friends. Annual vacations. Questionable boundaries. And the illusion that everything works better when life is on pause.This week on RomCom Rescue, Kira Sabin and Dr. Isabelle Morley break down Netflix's People We Meet on Vacation, starring Emily Bader and Tom Blyth — a friends-to-lovers story that should work… but maybe doesn't.We talk about:Why “vacation chemistry” is not the same as real-life compatibilityThe outdated question of “Can men and women be friends?”Emotional intimacy, blurry boundaries, and what actually creates problems in relationshipsWhy attraction alone doesn't mean you should build a life togetherAnd the big miss that kept this romance from fully landingFair warning: we liked parts of it… and still had a lot to say.

Send us a textMOPB- Blind Leading the BlindPodcast Summary – Ro-Mina / MOPB S1 E4 “Boobs and Knees”This episode opens with a deep dive into Ro-Mina's background. Born in Uzbekistan during the USSR era, Ro-Mina is a Bukharian (Buharian) Sephardic Jew with Persian roots—something she considers central to her identity. She immigrated to the U.S. at age five, speaks fluent Russian, and grew up in Northeast Philly before moving to Bucks County. A longtime reality-TV fan, Ro-Mina manifested her place on TV and ultimately landed on the show through Rosalyn.Professionally, Ro-Mina partnered with her brother in a senior home-care business, which they later sold. She then invested heavily in real estate with her husband Roman, taking over design and staging while he builds, leases, and manages properties himself. Roman has supported her reality-TV ambitions from day one.Ro-Mina finds herself caught in the middle of the growing rift between Rosalyn and Hillary. While she respects Hillary's talent and hustle, she believes Hillary revealed Rosalyn's past in a way that felt malicious. She encourages Rosalyn to keep finding her voice and stay authentic, while struggling with loyalty on both sides.The recap then shifts to MOPB S1 E4 – “Boobs and Knees.” Hillary plans a lavish vow renewal after her intimate Tuscany wedding, complete with yacht tastings and nonstop criticism of the food. She continues her crusade against Maria, accusing her of inappropriate behavior and declaring she doesn't belong in the group.At Maria's DJ launch party, tensions explode. Hillary and Maria face off over accusations of name-calling, attention-seeking, and physical boundaries. The argument ends with Hillary uninviting Maria from her vow renewal—and Maria gladly accepting the dismissal.The drama escalates again at Rosalyn's billionaire-level gala, featuring a $1.2M Bulgari Serpenti necklace. Fashion rules (“boobs and knees”), etiquette wars, and reputation policing dominate the night. Taja confronts Gale over name-dropping and authenticity, while Maria exposes behind-the-scenes judgment from the group. The evening reaches peak chaos when Gale literally falls off the couch, triggering a glam emergency and unfiltered confessionals.The episode closes with fractured alliances, wounded egos, and the clear realization that Palm Beach politeness is no match for unchecked honesty, couture confidence, and unresolved grudges.Support the showhttps://www.wewinewhenever.com/

This episode is for those who love exploring life and appreciate the common threads and principles that show up no matter the path they're on.Jack Baumann is the founder and director of Guidester.com.He is passionate about supporting people who want to travel and explore in a way that's authentic, enriching and unforgettable. He believe's the best travel experiences aren't about how many places you visit but how deeply you experience them. Hence his travel philosophy is – Travel Deep, Not Broad. Meaning… slowing down, embracing the local culture, and making meaningful connections that stay with you long after your trip ends.This is why I feel it's no accident that we find ourselves in each others lives. As we share a passion of discovery, depth and dance.After finishing his Master's degree in Ancient Greek and Roman Archaeology at Cardiff University, Jack spent a great deal of time exploring the beauty of Europe. During his extensive travels, he saw how overwhelming and time-consuming the planning process could be…endless Google searches, piles of guidebooks, and generic recommendations that didn't match individual interests.Jack founded Guidester in 2014 after returning home to the U.S. to solve this problem. His goal was to create seamless, immersive European experiences that let traveler's focus on enjoying the journey – not stressing over the details.“I do love England, Scotland, Wales individually, but to me, the island of Britain is something special and unique that no other place has.”Guidester is now a successful business which not only helps people plan their own trips but Jack, along with his remarkable travel buddy a Norfolk Terrier “Maverick”, also takes groups beyond the tourist traps to discover hidden gems, and engage with the real heart of each destination – whether it's private wine tasting at a gorgeous vineyard in Tuscany, behind-the-scenes at a centuries-old castle in Germany, dining at a rooftop restaurant in Barcelona, or simply lingering in a café in Paris where history and daily life intertwine.Essentially he aligns people perfectly with their actual desires…not popular trends.“The problem is Europe is done like a textbook. When you're in Rome, you've got to see the Colosseum, you've got to see the Vatican.Well, no, you don't. . .. . . All the things they did in Rome did not align with what they actually like to do and what sets them on fire.”Jack loves to dance and has been a student of mine for a couple of years. Here he has not only been fine tuning his dancing skills but learning more deeply about himself and life.We hope you enjoy this mix of topics and perspectives.If you wish to know more about Guidester, Travelin' Jack's Podcast or Jack's or Maverick's Instagram.COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIESWe are currently offering individuals and businesses two simple and affordable ways to support the Soulhubbers Podcast, while gaining long-term visibility to a growing global audience. As an ever-growing audience continue to discover both new and archived episodes, your support continues to be heard.* £200 per episode.* £1500 for a block of 10 episodes.This won't be a corny or scripted promotion. Instead, we'll acknowledge and honour you or your business in a way that feels authentic and aligned. That might be a spoken mention, a well-wishing, inclusion in episode graphics, or even dedicating an episode to someone special.If this resonates for you or your business, please email Carmen to explore sponsorship.Thanks for your support and for listening. Get full access to Sole to Soul Inspiration by Soulhub at soulhub.substack.com/subscribe

Discover the amazing people visited and great wines drunk when Jane Anson and Sarah Kemp visited Tuscany on the inaugural Tuscany Connoisseur Week. Find out which wines (and producers) captured their hearts and why Tuscany is now top of the list for wine collectors. Glorious armchair travel to one of the wine world's most exciting regions.Find out more at: wine-conversation.com

Giannina the Cat Giannina the cat lived in a house with a garden. The garden wall bordered a park where children gathered to play. The town was small but charming — from the windowsills of the houses, pots of geraniums and petunias tumbled down like colorful cascades. Her owner, Signora Mafalda, often took her around the town center. All the children knew her, and whenever they spotted her, they would run over and shower her with affection. Giannina was quite the little rascal. During the day she loved chasing lizards, hunting insects, butterflies, and anything that moved. To rest, she would stretch out in the sun on the warm stones, then cool off among the blades of grass. In the garden, among the pomegranate tree, the lemon tree, and the olive with its silvery leaves, she and Mafalda spent their afternoons playing together. But one day, Mafalda began to notice something strange. Giannina would leap to catch her prey, but she kept missing and ending up in the rose bushes. "Ow, ow, ow! I've pricked myself and my tail is tangled in the branches!" she meowed. She barely managed to dodge trees she used to climb with ease. She reached her food and water bowls with an uncertain gait. Worried, Mafalda took her to the Veterinarian. After listening to the little cat's strange adventures, the Doctor smiled and delivered his verdict with a wise air: "This little kitty can't see well. She needs glasses." No sooner said than done — in the blink of an eye, the veterinarian searched through a display case full of frames for pets and, finding the perfect one, exclaimed: "Here we are — a pair of glasses fit for an elegant lady!" As soon as they were placed on Giannina's sweet little snout, the cat looked around in wonder. She could see everything so clearly! She rubbed against the Veterinarian's legs and leaped into Mafalda's arms as if to thank her. The Doctor, touched by her sweetness, gave her a special gift: a golden chain with a small pearl at its center that glowed with its own light. Whispering, he told her: "If you close your eyes and touch this pearl with your little nose, you will gain magical powers that only you will have. They will help you help others." Giannina thought that perhaps this Veterinarian was also a Wizard, but she said nothing to Mafalda. It was a secret between her and the strange Doctor. On the way home, people turned to look at her, thinking: that cat seems mysterious — there's something glimmering around her. At home, Giannina's first wish was to climb onto a chair and gaze out the window. The flowers shone in their colors, and even the grass was a brilliant green, as if covered in dew. She smiled, happier than ever. Mafalda, sharing in her joy, decided to take her to the park. They arrived in no time. Squirrels scampered through the trees, birds sang as they flew from branch to branch. Small creatures popped out everywhere, and the children followed them with curiosity — they ran alongside the lizards, leaped with the butterflies dancing in the air, while red ladybugs landed on their skin like good luck charms. After chases, slides, and ring-around-the-rosy, the children sat down on the grass for their snack. From their colorful backpacks came tasty treats. That's when they arrived. "Vriiip! Vriiip! Vriiip!" At full speed, a platoon of ants zoomed in on rumbling mini-motorcycles. They wore shiny little helmets on their heads, round goggles over their eyes, and tiny boots on their feet. They braked sharply in front of the children, raising little clouds of dust. "Make way! We're here too!" shouted the lead ant, lifting her visor. "Can we collect the crumbs?" The children burst out laughing. "Yes, yes! Munch all the crumbs you want!" The ants parked their mini-motorcycles in a neat row, removed their helmets with theatrical gestures, and got to work carrying crumbs twice their size, singing a little marching song. In this joyful atmosphere, Giannina and Mafalda strolled along the pathways. And suddenly, as they passed, the trees bent their branches in a bow and their leaves rustled in greeting. The roses in the flower beds opened their petals and began to sing. The lizards beat their tails on the ground like drums: "Rattatatà! Rattatatà!" And the millipedes started tap dancing to the lively rhythm. "Oh my, what a wonderful commotion!" exclaimed Giannina, who was beginning to feel a mysterious aura around her. She couldn't help but think of the Wizard Veterinarian. What could these magical powers be? And what would happen if she touched the pearl with her little nose? She told Mafalda, who was carrying a book of fairy tales under her arm. They looked at each other and, understanding instantly, seized the moment. Giannina gathered the children in a circle. Some came quickly, others more shy joined in slowly. The ants too, their bellies full, put on their mini helmets again, did one last rumbling lap on their motorcycles, then climbed off and approached the group. It was the right moment. Giannina closed her eyes and touched the magic pearl with her little nose. A golden spark flashed in the air. She took the book from Mafalda's hands, opened it, and chose the tale that seemed to be waiting for her, glowing among the pages. In a gentle voice, she began to read. "Once upon a time, there was a little rabbit who lived in the woods. He kept tripping over tree roots and pebbles. At school, he made mistakes reading letters and numbers, so he didn't want to go anymore. When the teacher saw his drawings, she said: 'Well done!' His mom and dad said the same: 'Well done!' But to him, the colors seemed faded. The truth was, he couldn't see well, but instead of saying so, he would run away and hide in a burrow beneath a talking tree. And the tree, with the rustle of its leaves, whispered a secret: talk to your parents. So he did, and they helped him get glasses. And the world became beautiful again." Giannina closed the book. She understood: with the magic pearl, she could read the hearts of children, discovering emotions and secrets waiting to be brought to light. "You know," she said to her little listeners, "not long ago, I couldn't see well either. But I put on these glasses and poof! The world became clearer and more beautiful." A boy approached her, almost embarrassed, and whispered in her ear: "Maybe I need them too, like you." Giannina gently stroked him. "I helped you open your heart. Now talk to your parents, and everything will be fine." Just then, a little rabbit appeared suddenly from the bushes. He came up to Giannina, hugged her, and said: "You are magically magical!" And — you won't believe it — that little rabbit was wearing a lovely pair of colorful glasses. From that day on, Giannina took the children of the town by the paw, teaching them to believe in themselves and to have confidence. She became the mascot with the magic glasses, and everyone wanted to wear them just like her. But the true wonder was how she now saw the world from her window: brighter, more colorful, more alive. And every evening, before falling asleep, she would touch the pearl with her little nose and smile, knowing that the next day she would help someone else see the world with new eyes. It almost seemed like it had been a dream. But as we know, reality and fantasy often walk hand in hand. _— Written by Lucia & Marco Ciappelli_ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Giannina the CatGiannina the cat lived in a house with a garden. The garden wall bordered a park where children gathered to play. The town was small but charming — from the windowsills of the houses, pots of geraniums and petunias tumbled down like colorful cascades.Her owner, Signora Mafalda, often took her around the town center. All the children knew her, and whenever they spotted her, they would run over and shower her with affection.Giannina was quite the little rascal. During the day she loved chasing lizards, hunting insects, butterflies, and anything that moved. To rest, she would stretch out in the sun on the warm stones, then cool off among the blades of grass. In the garden, among the pomegranate tree, the lemon tree, and the olive with its silvery leaves, she and Mafalda spent their afternoons playing together.But one day, Mafalda began to notice something strange. Giannina would leap to catch her prey, but she kept missing and ending up in the rose bushes. "Ow, ow, ow! I've pricked myself and my tail is tangled in the branches!" she meowed. She barely managed to dodge trees she used to climb with ease. She reached her food and water bowls with an uncertain gait.Worried, Mafalda took her to the Veterinarian.After listening to the little cat's strange adventures, the Doctor smiled and delivered his verdict with a wise air: "This little kitty can't see well. She needs glasses."No sooner said than done — in the blink of an eye, the veterinarian searched through a display case full of frames for pets and, finding the perfect one, exclaimed: "Here we are — a pair of glasses fit for an elegant lady!"As soon as they were placed on Giannina's sweet little snout, the cat looked around in wonder. She could see everything so clearly! She rubbed against the Veterinarian's legs and leaped into Mafalda's arms as if to thank her.The Doctor, touched by her sweetness, gave her a special gift: a golden chain with a small pearl at its center that glowed with its own light. Whispering, he told her: "If you close your eyes and touch this pearl with your little nose, you will gain magical powers that only you will have. They will help you help others."Giannina thought that perhaps this Veterinarian was also a Wizard, but she said nothing to Mafalda. It was a secret between her and the strange Doctor.On the way home, people turned to look at her, thinking: that cat seems mysterious — there's something glimmering around her.At home, Giannina's first wish was to climb onto a chair and gaze out the window. The flowers shone in their colors, and even the grass was a brilliant green, as if covered in dew. She smiled, happier than ever.Mafalda, sharing in her joy, decided to take her to the park.They arrived in no time. Squirrels scampered through the trees, birds sang as they flew from branch to branch. Small creatures popped out everywhere, and the children followed them with curiosity — they ran alongside the lizards, leaped with the butterflies dancing in the air, while red ladybugs landed on their skin like good luck charms.After chases, slides, and ring-around-the-rosy, the children sat down on the grass for their snack. From their colorful backpacks came tasty treats.That's when they arrived."Vriiip! Vriiip! Vriiip!"At full speed, a platoon of ants zoomed in on rumbling mini-motorcycles. They wore shiny little helmets on their heads, round goggles over their eyes, and tiny boots on their feet. They braked sharply in front of the children, raising little clouds of dust."Make way! We're here too!" shouted the lead ant, lifting her visor. "Can we collect the crumbs?"The children burst out laughing. "Yes, yes! Munch all the crumbs you want!"The ants parked their mini-motorcycles in a neat row, removed their helmets with theatrical gestures, and got to work carrying crumbs twice their size, singing a little marching song.In this joyful atmosphere, Giannina and Mafalda strolled along the pathways. And suddenly, as they passed, the trees bent their branches in a bow and their leaves rustled in greeting. The roses in the flower beds opened their petals and began to sing. The lizards beat their tails on the ground like drums: "Rattatatà! Rattatatà!" And the millipedes started tap dancing to the lively rhythm."Oh my, what a wonderful commotion!" exclaimed Giannina, who was beginning to feel a mysterious aura around her.She couldn't help but think of the Wizard Veterinarian. What could these magical powers be? And what would happen if she touched the pearl with her little nose?She told Mafalda, who was carrying a book of fairy tales under her arm. They looked at each other and, understanding instantly, seized the moment.Giannina gathered the children in a circle. Some came quickly, others more shy joined in slowly. The ants too, their bellies full, put on their mini helmets again, did one last rumbling lap on their motorcycles, then climbed off and approached the group.It was the right moment.Giannina closed her eyes and touched the magic pearl with her little nose. A golden spark flashed in the air. She took the book from Mafalda's hands, opened it, and chose the tale that seemed to be waiting for her, glowing among the pages.In a gentle voice, she began to read."Once upon a time, there was a little rabbit who lived in the woods. He kept tripping over tree roots and pebbles. At school, he made mistakes reading letters and numbers, so he didn't want to go anymore. When the teacher saw his drawings, she said: 'Well done!' His mom and dad said the same: 'Well done!' But to him, the colors seemed faded. The truth was, he couldn't see well, but instead of saying so, he would run away and hide in a burrow beneath a talking tree. And the tree, with the rustle of its leaves, whispered a secret: talk to your parents. So he did, and they helped him get glasses. And the world became beautiful again."Giannina closed the book. She understood: with the magic pearl, she could read the hearts of children, discovering emotions and secrets waiting to be brought to light."You know," she said to her little listeners, "not long ago, I couldn't see well either. But I put on these glasses and poof! The world became clearer and more beautiful."A boy approached her, almost embarrassed, and whispered in her ear: "Maybe I need them too, like you."Giannina gently stroked him. "I helped you open your heart. Now talk to your parents, and everything will be fine."Just then, a little rabbit appeared suddenly from the bushes. He came up to Giannina, hugged her, and said: "You are magically magical!"And — you won't believe it — that little rabbit was wearing a lovely pair of colorful glasses.From that day on, Giannina took the children of the town by the paw, teaching them to believe in themselves and to have confidence. She became the mascot with the magic glasses, and everyone wanted to wear them just like her.But the true wonder was how she now saw the world from her window: brighter, more colorful, more alive. And every evening, before falling asleep, she would touch the pearl with her little nose and smile, knowing that the next day she would help someone else see the world with new eyes.It almost seemed like it had been a dream. But as we know, reality and fantasy often walk hand in hand.— Written by Lucia & Marco Ciappelli Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You'll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Imagine stepping into a rustic Italian kitchen where the air is filled with the sweet-tangy aroma of a century-old mother's leavening starter. This scent, reminiscent of warm, crusty loaves and ancient traditions, can instantly transport you to the heart of Italy's baking heritage. Discover the art of crafting Italy's mother yeast, and unlock the secrets to making exceptional bread and beyond. Learn about its history, creation, maintenance, and transformative power for perfect panettone, pizza, and rustic loaves that are more digestible and long-lasting.Mother's yeast, often called as such by bakers, is the heart of traditional Italian sourdough baking. It is a living culture of wild yeasts and beneficial bacteria that transforms simple flour and water into flavorful, digestible breads with a signature tangy depth. This natural leavening agent has ancient roots, dating back to the Egyptians around 1500 BCE, who discovered fermentation through spontaneous mixtures of grain and water left to the effects of ambient microbes. It genuinely thrived in Italy during the Renaissance, where bakers in areas such as Lombardy and Tuscany refined it into the stiff, pasta-like starter we know today. They passed it down through generations as a family heirloom. Some Italian bakeries boast mother's yeast that's over a century old, a testament to its enduring legacy in artisan breadmaking. Unlike commercial yeast, which is a single strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae bred for speed and predictability, mother yeast is a symbiotic community of lactobacilli and wild yeasts captured from the environment, flour, and even the baker's hands. It evolves uniquely in each kitchen, mirroring local terroir, much like wine or cheese.For the followers of our newsletter, who I imagine are passionate home bakers keen to enhance their craft, embracing mother's yeast means entering a slower, more mindful baking pace that rewards patience with unmatched success. To start your own, begin with equal parts by weight of high-quality organic flour, preferably a mix of tipo 00 and whole wheat, strong microbial activity, and filtered water at room temperature, about 100 grams each. Stir into a thick paste in a clean glass jar. Cover loosely with a cloth to allow air exchange while keeping contaminants out, and let it sit in a warm spot around 75-80°F for 24-48 hours until bubbles appear, indicating the wild yeasts are awakening. This initial fermentation might smell funky at first, similar to overripe fruit or vinegar, but that's normal as the culture establishes dominance over unwanted bacteria. Refresh it daily by discarding about 80% of the mixture—compost it or use it in pancakes to avoid waste—and feeding the remainder with fresh flour and water in a 1:1:1 ratio by weight (starter: flour: water). Knead briefly to incorporate until it forms a smooth, firm dough that's stiffer than typical American natural leavening cultures, which helps concentrate flavors and increase shelf life. After 7-10 days of consistent feedings, your lievito madre should double in size within 4-6 hours after refreshing, emitting a pleasant, mildly acidic aroma like yogurt mixed with apples. This indicates it's mature and ready for baking. If it takes longer, continue feeding until it reaches peak activity. Remember, steadiness matters. Missed feedings can weaken it, but it revives with a few diligent refreshes.Read Full Content HereMore PodcastsProduced by SimVal Media Group, USA

Going Long Podcast Episode 594: Follow Your Dream to Sea Tuscany - Federico Falchi  ( To see the Video Version of today's conversation just CLICK HERE. ) In today's episode of The Going Long Podcast, you'll learn the following:   [00:24 - 02:13] Billy welcomes and introduces today's special guest, Federico Falchi. [02:13 - 08:56] Billy asks Federico to share more about himself in his own words. [08:56 - 12:21] Federico shares his thoughts on the choice between climbing the corporate ladder or going off to work on his own business. [12:21 - 15:18] Billy asks Federico what key skills he learned in corporate that he was able to transfer, transpose and leverage in his business. [15:18 - 18:19] Federico talks about how his early environment influenced his attitude towards money.  [18:19 - 25:48] Billy asks Federico about time management and freedom of time in corporate and private business situations.  [25:48 - 33:11] Federico shares information on his hospitality and tourism business, SeaTuscany, including the story of how it came to be and the kinds of services and experiences he provides. [33:11 - 36:08]  Federico shares the message he would like to hear from himself three years from now. [36:08 - 40:51] Billy sums up all we've learned from Federico today and asks him to share the best ways we can get in contact with him and find him online. [40:51 - 41:58] Billy wraps up the show   How best to get in touch with and find out more about Federico Falchi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sea_tuscany/reels/  Website: https://seatuscany.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/federico-falchi-9695b4/?originalSubdomain=it    If you're a corporate executive who wants to make your role optional, then grab your FREE ebook with Billy's proven 3 step process at:  www.makeitoptional.com What you can expect to get out of this ebook: Learn how to achieve corporate optionality Gain true control over your career Turn corporate skills into personal assets With 26 years of experience in corporate sales leadership, achieved optionality through multiple income streams, Billy has helped dozens of executives build their paths to take control of their time. This free ebook gives you everything you need to identify, plan, and take control of your career while building financial optionality, leveraging your skills, and start living your IDEAL day - today! Go to: www.makeitoptional.com Click the above link or just copy and paste the following directly into your browser to sign up and get your free ebook: https://www.makeitoptional.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=p2olm  To see the Video Version of today's conversation just CLICK HERE.   How to leave a review for The Going Long Podcast: https://youtu.be/qfRqLVcf8UI     Be sure to connect with Billy!  He's made it easy for you to do…Just go to any of these sites:   Website: www.billykeels.com Youtube: billykeels Facebook: Billy Keels Fan Page Instagram: @billykeels Twitter: @billykeels LinkedIn: Billy Keels

KeywordsItaly, Tuscany, Piedmont, Riviera, wine, food, travel, tourism, authentic experience, hidden gemsSummaryIn this conversation, Anthony Campopiano discusses the unique appeal of Italy's lesser-known regions, particularly Piedmont and the Riviera. He highlights how these areas offer a more authentic experience compared to the heavily touristed Tuscany, emphasizing the quality of food, wine, and the overall atmosphere.TakeawaysYou're getting Italy light with Tuscany's charm.Piedmont offers great food and fantastic wine.The Riviera provides a unique blend of sea and wine.Authenticity is key in less touristy areas.Travelers can enjoy beautiful vineyards in Piedmont.The experience is more real and less commercialized.Italy's hidden gems are worth exploring.Quality of food and wine is paramount.Tourism in Italy can be overwhelming in popular spots.Seek out the less traveled paths for true Italian culture.S05E06 From Lakes to Langhe: The Italian The Lap of Luxuryhttps://italywithbella.com

LEOPOLDO'S SECRET LIBRARYSome people are strange — they like to spend their evenings reading books.Others are even stranger — they believe in the magic found between pages, in fantastical adventures, in stories of impossible love, in ghosts that walk among the living, and they think that everything that doesn't exist — maybe does after all.In short, this story is for those who are a little strange, like you and me — you know, for those who.So… listen.If you take the road up the hill from the center of town, you'll find an old and noble villa, one that has been there for a very long time. It must be about 350 years now that it has stood there in silence, watching and breathing softly beneath the Tuscan sky.Enormous rooms filled with history, endless corridors, and windows as large as dreams — but now, instead of porcelain plates and figurines, it gives us stories on paper for those who wish to read them.Yes, now it's the town library — a bit out of the way, but so beautiful. Well, you can't have everything.Now, on a summer night, wrapped in a blanket of stars and the soft glow of delicate lanterns, the villa had filled with voices, music, smiles, and so many stories told and heard, spoken aloud or whispered, intertwining in the embrace of the celebration.A special evening already, no doubt, but pay attention, because something even more unusual was about to happen.Yes, because Elisa was there too. Eyes as wide as the sky, hair as dark as the night, and a book in her hand — as always.Despite everything happening around her, Elisa preferred to read.She was there, in the main corridor: between the garden and the inner courtyard, halfway between the certain and the perhaps, sitting in an armchair a little too big for her, lost in a mysterious and captivating story — in a world all her own.She turns a page, then another, adjusts her yellow glasses, and turns another page…When slowly, the echo of piano music reached her ears.She didn't pay much attention. Thinking it came from the courtyard, she turned another page — and then another.But before long she realized that the notes she heard were not coming from the villa's courtyard but from one of its corridors — carried by a gentle breeze, from faraway places outside of time.Without thinking too much, Elisa rose silently, tucked her book under her arm, and followed the music.She crossed ancient corridors and rooms with shelves full of volumes of every size and color imaginable — rainbows of thoughts and words lined up one by one that seemed to never end.As the music grew stronger, the light faded, the rooms she passed through began to appear forgotten, the stone stairs she climbed and descended worn by time, the side corridors were now dark passages lit only by torches on the walls, appearing and disappearing in the darkness like breaths.A staircase, a wooden door left ajar, another passage, another staircase, and still more rooms and shelves and books without end.Then, suddenly, a mist covered the floor like a gentle tide, and there, before her, a heavy curtain — half open.A little light showed through, and a few small wooden steps.She climbed them, those little stairs, and the music wrapped around her like an embrace.On the stage, candles floated in the air like fireflies on a timeless night. And there, at the center, seated before a tiny piano, was a mouse.But not just any mouse.Leopoldo wore a dark green tweed jacket, brown trousers pressed with care, and on his little snout, golden spectacles that gleamed with ancient and gentle wisdom.His fingers danced on the keys as if they were telling a secret."Welcome, Elisa," he said, without stopping his playing. "I've been waiting for you."Elisa blinked, enchanted. "How do you know my name?""Ah," Leopoldo smiled, letting the last note fade softly into the air, "those who love stories always recognize those who seek them."He stood, adjusted his jacket with an elegant gesture, and looked at her with eyes full of stars."Do you know where you are?""In the town library," Elisa answered, but her voice trembled a little, as if she knew the answer was something else."That one everyone knows," said Leopoldo, stepping down slowly from the stage. "Every town has one that everyone knows. But every town also has another — one that almost no one finds."He paused, his eyes gleaming."You have found the second."Leopoldo led her toward a large wooden door that Elisa could have sworn wasn't there a moment before. It opened slowly, without a sound, like a sigh held too long.And what she saw took her breath away.Endless shelves climbed upward, descended downward, stretched in every direction like spirals of galaxies made of paper and dreams. Candles floated everywhere, illuminating books that seemed to breathe, to pulse softly, like sleeping hearts."What is this place?" Elisa whispered."This," said Leopoldo, walking among the shelves, "is the library of books never written."Elisa followed, confused. "Books never written? But how can they exist?"Leopoldo stopped, turned, and looked at her with infinite gentleness."Every story ever dreamed exists, Elisa. Every adventure imagined before sleep. Every tale thought but never put to paper. They all live here, at the border between the world and the dream, waiting."They stopped before a shelf.Leopoldo pointed to a small book, bound in blue like a summer sky."Touch it," he said softly.Elisa reached out, hesitant, and brushed the cover.A gentle warmth passed through her fingers. And for an instant — just an instant — she heard a child's laughter, saw a dragon made of clouds, and a castle built of pillows and blankets."This," said Leopoldo, "was the dream of a six-year-old boy. A story he told his teddy bear every night. He never wrote it down. But it exists. You see? It exists."Elisa smiled, her heart light.They walked on, through corridors of silent stories, until Leopoldo stopped before another book.This one was different. Larger, bound in dark leather, with golden letters that seemed to tremble."And this one?" asked Elisa, quietly."This one," said Leopoldo, and his voice grew soft as a caress, "belonged to a grandmother."Elisa touched it.And she felt something different.Not laughter, this time. But a warm, distant voice, telling of a brave little girl who crossed an enchanted forest to bring light to a forgotten village."It was the story she wanted to leave her grandchildren," Leopoldo explained. "But time… time sometimes runs faster than dreams. She didn't have time to write it."Elisa felt her eyes sting."But it's here," she whispered."It's here," Leopoldo confirmed. "Forever."They continued walking, in silence, until they reached a shelf unlike the others.It was nearly empty. Only a few books, spaced apart, and so many open spaces, waiting.At the center, a book without a title.The cover was white, clean, like freshly fallen snow, like a page waiting for its first mark."May I?" asked Elisa.Leopoldo nodded.She touched it.Nothing. No warmth. No voice. Only silence. But a full silence, like a breath held."This book is empty," said Elisa, surprised."Not yet written," Leopoldo corrected. "Not even dreamed. Not yet. It waits for someone to find the courage to imagine it."He turned toward her, and his eyes shone like the candles floating around them."Perhaps it waits for you. Perhaps it waits for someone else. But it waits."Elisa stood still, looking at that white book.And she understood.She understood that every story she had ever imagined, every adventure invented before sleep, every dream she thought lost upon waking, existed somewhere.And she understood something else.That you don't have to be afraid to write.Because stories already exist — in the heart, in the mind, in dreams. Putting them on paper is not creating them from nothing. It is only opening a door and letting them out."I have to go, don't I?" said Elisa, softly.Leopoldo smiled. "Your world awaits you. But now you know this place exists. And you know that every story you dream will always have a place here, whether you write it or not."He paused."But if you do write it," he added with a sly smile, "it can live out there too. And that, my dear, is another kind of magic."Elisa found herself back in the villa's corridor, sitting in the armchair a little too big for her, the book still under her arm.The celebration went on, voices and music and laughter, as if no time had passed at all.But something had changed.She had changed.She opened the book she had been reading, looked at the pages, and smiled.Then she closed it.Because now she knew that the most beautiful stories are not only the ones we read.They are the ones we carry inside, the ones we dream with our eyes open, and the ones that one day, with a little courage, we dare to tell.— This story was written by Marco Ciappelli for "Storie Sotto Le Stelle"  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LEOPOLDO'S SECRET LIBRARYSome people are strange — they like to spend their evenings reading books.Others are even stranger — they believe in the magic found between pages, in fantastical adventures, in stories of impossible love, in ghosts that walk among the living, and they think that everything that doesn't exist — maybe does after all.In short, this story is for those who are a little strange, like you and me — you know, for those who.So… listen.If you take the road up the hill from the center of town, you'll find an old and noble villa, one that has been there for a very long time. It must be about 350 years now that it has stood there in silence, watching and breathing softly beneath the Tuscan sky.Enormous rooms filled with history, endless corridors, and windows as large as dreams — but now, instead of porcelain plates and figurines, it gives us stories on paper for those who wish to read them.Yes, now it's the town library — a bit out of the way, but so beautiful. Well, you can't have everything.Now, on a summer night, wrapped in a blanket of stars and the soft glow of delicate lanterns, the villa had filled with voices, music, smiles, and so many stories told and heard, spoken aloud or whispered, intertwining in the embrace of the celebration.A special evening already, no doubt, but pay attention, because something even more unusual was about to happen.Yes, because Elisa was there too. Eyes as wide as the sky, hair as dark as the night, and a book in her hand — as always.Despite everything happening around her, Elisa preferred to read.She was there, in the main corridor: between the garden and the inner courtyard, halfway between the certain and the perhaps, sitting in an armchair a little too big for her, lost in a mysterious and captivating story — in a world all her own.She turns a page, then another, adjusts her yellow glasses, and turns another page…When slowly, the echo of piano music reached her ears.She didn't pay much attention. Thinking it came from the courtyard, she turned another page — and then another.But before long she realized that the notes she heard were not coming from the villa's courtyard but from one of its corridors — carried by a gentle breeze, from faraway places outside of time.Without thinking too much, Elisa rose silently, tucked her book under her arm, and followed the music.She crossed ancient corridors and rooms with shelves full of volumes of every size and color imaginable — rainbows of thoughts and words lined up one by one that seemed to never end.As the music grew stronger, the light faded, the rooms she passed through began to appear forgotten, the stone stairs she climbed and descended worn by time, the side corridors were now dark passages lit only by torches on the walls, appearing and disappearing in the darkness like breaths.A staircase, a wooden door left ajar, another passage, another staircase, and still more rooms and shelves and books without end.Then, suddenly, a mist covered the floor like a gentle tide, and there, before her, a heavy curtain — half open.A little light showed through, and a few small wooden steps.She climbed them, those little stairs, and the music wrapped around her like an embrace.On the stage, candles floated in the air like fireflies on a timeless night. And there, at the center, seated before a tiny piano, was a mouse.But not just any mouse.Leopoldo wore a dark green tweed jacket, brown trousers pressed with care, and on his little snout, golden spectacles that gleamed with ancient and gentle wisdom.His fingers danced on the keys as if they were telling a secret."Welcome, Elisa," he said, without stopping his playing. "I've been waiting for you."Elisa blinked, enchanted. "How do you know my name?""Ah," Leopoldo smiled, letting the last note fade softly into the air, "those who love stories always recognize those who seek them."He stood, adjusted his jacket with an elegant gesture, and looked at her with eyes full of stars."Do you know where you are?""In the town library," Elisa answered, but her voice trembled a little, as if she knew the answer was something else."That one everyone knows," said Leopoldo, stepping down slowly from the stage. "Every town has one that everyone knows. But every town also has another — one that almost no one finds."He paused, his eyes gleaming."You have found the second."Leopoldo led her toward a large wooden door that Elisa could have sworn wasn't there a moment before. It opened slowly, without a sound, like a sigh held too long.And what she saw took her breath away.Endless shelves climbed upward, descended downward, stretched in every direction like spirals of galaxies made of paper and dreams. Candles floated everywhere, illuminating books that seemed to breathe, to pulse softly, like sleeping hearts."What is this place?" Elisa whispered."This," said Leopoldo, walking among the shelves, "is the library of books never written."Elisa followed, confused. "Books never written? But how can they exist?"Leopoldo stopped, turned, and looked at her with infinite gentleness."Every story ever dreamed exists, Elisa. Every adventure imagined before sleep. Every tale thought but never put to paper. They all live here, at the border between the world and the dream, waiting."They stopped before a shelf.Leopoldo pointed to a small book, bound in blue like a summer sky."Touch it," he said softly.Elisa reached out, hesitant, and brushed the cover.A gentle warmth passed through her fingers. And for an instant — just an instant — she heard a child's laughter, saw a dragon made of clouds, and a castle built of pillows and blankets."This," said Leopoldo, "was the dream of a six-year-old boy. A story he told his teddy bear every night. He never wrote it down. But it exists. You see? It exists."Elisa smiled, her heart light.They walked on, through corridors of silent stories, until Leopoldo stopped before another book.This one was different. Larger, bound in dark leather, with golden letters that seemed to tremble."And this one?" asked Elisa, quietly."This one," said Leopoldo, and his voice grew soft as a caress, "belonged to a grandmother."Elisa touched it.And she felt something different.Not laughter, this time. But a warm, distant voice, telling of a brave little girl who crossed an enchanted forest to bring light to a forgotten village."It was the story she wanted to leave her grandchildren," Leopoldo explained. "But time… time sometimes runs faster than dreams. She didn't have time to write it."Elisa felt her eyes sting."But it's here," she whispered."It's here," Leopoldo confirmed. "Forever."They continued walking, in silence, until they reached a shelf unlike the others.It was nearly empty. Only a few books, spaced apart, and so many open spaces, waiting.At the center, a book without a title.The cover was white, clean, like freshly fallen snow, like a page waiting for its first mark."May I?" asked Elisa.Leopoldo nodded.She touched it.Nothing. No warmth. No voice. Only silence. But a full silence, like a breath held."This book is empty," said Elisa, surprised."Not yet written," Leopoldo corrected. "Not even dreamed. Not yet. It waits for someone to find the courage to imagine it."He turned toward her, and his eyes shone like the candles floating around them."Perhaps it waits for you. Perhaps it waits for someone else. But it waits."Elisa stood still, looking at that white book.And she understood.She understood that every story she had ever imagined, every adventure invented before sleep, every dream she thought lost upon waking, existed somewhere.And she understood something else.That you don't have to be afraid to write.Because stories already exist — in the heart, in the mind, in dreams. Putting them on paper is not creating them from nothing. It is only opening a door and letting them out."I have to go, don't I?" said Elisa, softly.Leopoldo smiled. "Your world awaits you. But now you know this place exists. And you know that every story you dream will always have a place here, whether you write it or not."He paused."But if you do write it," he added with a sly smile, "it can live out there too. And that, my dear, is another kind of magic."Elisa found herself back in the villa's corridor, sitting in the armchair a little too big for her, the book still under her arm.The celebration went on, voices and music and laughter, as if no time had passed at all.But something had changed.She had changed.She opened the book she had been reading, looked at the pages, and smiled.Then she closed it.Because now she knew that the most beautiful stories are not only the ones we read.They are the ones we carry inside, the ones we dream with our eyes open, and the ones that one day, with a little courage, we dare to tell.— This story was written by Marco Ciappelli for "Storie Sotto Le Stelle"  Each story is currently written and narrated in both Italian and English.The translation from Italian (the original language) to English and the reading of the stories are performed using Generative Artificial Intelligence — which perhaps has a touch of magic... We hope it has done a good job!If you like it, make sure to tell your friends, family, and teachers, and subscribe to this podcast to stay updated. You'll be able to read or listen to new stories as soon as they become available. Visit us On The Official Website https://www.storiesottolestelle.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Anna Maria Luisa, the last representative of the main branch of the Medici, saves her family's legacy through an innovative agreement. Also we survey Tuscany's post-Medici future and the branches of the family that survived into the 21st century.

This week on our Vino Lingo segment, we feature Leonardo Bellaccini, Oenologist, San Felice, Tuscany, defining the term “Passion”.  Learn more by visiting sanfelice.com

With 42 years at San Felice, Oenologist Leonardo Bellaccini is committed to blending tradition with innovation. Wine in Tuscany is renown world wide, representing some of the finest wines to be found in Italy. But what is old, is new, and creating the groundbreaking Vitiarium project shows the essence of the region. I spoke with [...]

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Links for the Show: Fondazione FS Italiane National Railway Museum Strada dell'Olio DOP Umbria  Via di Linari In this episode, Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso share insights from their friends who recently traveled to Italy during the Christmas holiday. They discuss historical train routes, exciting activities like driving a Ferrari through Tuscany, and adventurous hiking and biking options. Join us in this episode for unique ways to experience Italy beyond the typical tourist paths. Key Points: Christmas in Italy: Venice was less crowded than Rome during the holidays. Italian locals gather in Rome for Christmas, making it more crowded. Venice had crowds during specific events like the Santa Claus gondolier parade. Uber Black in Rome: Friends used Uber Black successfully in Rome, despite previous reliability concerns with standard Uber. Uber Black offers larger, luxury vehicles with professional drivers. Historical Exploration: Friends regretted not researching the history of Italian landmarks before their trip. Tommaso suggests spending ample time before the trip researching historical facts so they are better prepared once there. New Travel Options for 2026: Historical Train Journeys: Italy's historic railways, managed by La Fondazione FS Italiane. Binari Sensa Tempo (Timeless Tracks): Offers dozens of itineraries across the country. The National Railway Museum is in Pietrasara, outside Naples. The Christmas Market Train (Treno de Mercantini di Natale) runs from Sulmona to Roccaraso in Abruzzo. A day-long excursion from Torino to Canelli offers wine tastings in Piemonte. The train features Centoporte (100 Doors) carriages from the 1920s to the 1980s. Sommeliers offer tastings of regional wines like Barolos. Olive Mill Trains: Frantoi Aperti (Open Olive Mills) trains run every weekend through mid-November. Organized by Strada dell'Olio DOP Umbria (The Olive Oil Road). Visitors can taste fresh extra virgin olive oil and learn about production. Guided tastings led by professional tasters are available on board. The route runs from Arezzo to other Umbrian towns like Spoleto and Assisi. Promotes mindful travel and reduces carbon emissions. Luxury Driving: Drive a Ferrari through the hills of Tuscany. Prices are around 4,000 euros per day, or 2,000 euros per person for two. Multi-day excursions include high-end hotels. Adventure Hiking: Via Di Linari: An ancient 93-mile trail through medieval monasteries, abbeys, and a national park. The trail snakes through Emilia-Romagna and the Apennine Mountains into Tuscany. Best hiked in spring or fall, taking about nine days to complete. Sections are no more than 12 miles long. The website Camini Emilia Romagna provides detailed itineraries and accommodation options. Monasteri Aperti: Monks open their doors to hikers for hot meals on certain autumn weekends. Biking Expeditions: Flat, scenic rides connecting food capitals like Parma and Bologna to Venice. Explore historic sites like Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sardinia: Features rugged coastlines and routes for all levels. Sicily: Combines history and natural beauty, with cycling through the Valley of the Temples and around Mount Etna. Egadi Islands (Isola Egadi): Offers idyllic cycling vacations. Isola di Levanzo is ideal for mountain bikers. Isola di Favignana has paved roads and gravel paths. Isola Marettimo is for serious mountain bikers, featuring a small idyllic village.

What happens when a classically trained cellist becomes an Americana soul-seeker and an award-winning director? In this episode, we sit down with Janie Price, the creative force known as BIRD, to explore a career that defies categorization. From her early days picking up the cello at age six to her recent acclaim from legends like Johnny Marr and Roy Orbison Jr., BIRD's journey is one of relentless creative curiosity. We go behind the scenes of her stunning new single, "The Film," a track that began in a rented room in Italy during the 2020 lockdown and traveled all the way to Nashville to be finished by Americana's finest musicians. The 5-Year Song: Why "The Film" needed half a decade to age like a fine wine before it was ready for the world. Music as DNA: Growing up with the cello and how a classical foundation paved the way for pop hits and indie anthems. The Director's Chair: The transition from songwriting to filmmaking, including her award-winning short Wider Than The Sky and her upcoming Roy Orbison documentary. The Nashville Connection: Collaborating with Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts) and Ilya Toshinsky to find the perfect "Strange as Folk" sound. Global Empathy: How living between London and Tuscany shapes her perspective as a storyteller. Whether you're a fan of cinematic folk, a filmmaker in the making, or just love a deep dive into the creative process, this conversation with BIRD is a masterclass in staying true to your artistic vision. __ Love the show? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Follow Jrodconcerts Media: @jrodconcertsmedia ___ Support the Show: Try Cheerios Protein! https://www.cheerios.com/shop-protein-bundle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Brief Talk Podcast, Tim sits down with Sam, the founder of SB Swimwear, to talk about his lifelong love of Speedos, how CrossFit helped spark a viral moment, and what led him to launch his own swimwear brand—designed and manufactured in Italy. Born and raised in Italy, Sam grew up wearing Speedos as the norm, from childhood beach days to swimming workouts. That early comfort carried into adulthood, CrossFit training, and eventually competition—where a Speedo-only workout in Miami went viral and helped grow his Instagram following. From there, the idea for SB Swimwear was born. Sam shares how he worked closely with an Italian manufacturer in Tuscany, leaned on family support, and refined a classic swim brief cut designed to work just as well for swimming laps as it does for beach lounging. The result is a clean, confident design launched first in red, followed by white and blue—colors that nod to both his Italian roots and American identity. The conversation also dives into: • Why Speedos are more functional than board shorts • How body confidence develops over time • Wearing swim briefs beyond the beach (including competitions and hiking) • Customer reactions from around the world • The slow cultural shift toward swim briefs making a comeback • Advice for guys who want to wear Speedos but feel hesitant Sam also opens up about what success looks like for him—not just sales, but seeing customers feel more confident in their own skin. If you've ever thought about wearing a swim brief, designing your own gear, or challenging outdated ideas around masculinity and swimwear, this episode is for you. Follow SB Swimwear: Find SB Swimwear through Sam's Instagram http://www.instagram.com/SamuelBaiano SB Swimwear – https://puhxyx-ue.myshopify.com Support UNB For on going support join our Patreon – www.patreon.com/unbblog You can now Join for free.  For one time support  visit our support page – https://www.underwearnewsbriefs.com/about/support-unb/ You can donate by Ko-fi or Paypal  Or buy from the UNB Store – www.unbstore.com  Gift us something from our wish list – https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/KCJXCDDPU0LI?ref_=wl_share  Buy Amoresy – https://amoresy.com/UNBTIM Buy BodyAware – https://bodyaware.com?bg_ref=7FgHF6QR1x Buy Xdress – https://xdress.com?bg_ref=cG6ohBdgUO Buy Real Men – https://www.rmac.store/TIM77812 Find out More Read more at unbblog.com Follow unb on Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/unbblog Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/unbblog Reddit – https://www.reddit.com/r/unbstoreandblog/ Follow Tim Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/unbtim Instagrm – https://www.instagram.com/unbtim Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/unbtim BlueSky – https://bsky.app/profile/unbtim.bsky.social Spandex Party – https://spandexparty.com/unbtim Send Feedback/questions to feedback@brieftalkpodcast.com

Our very first merch line is here! Get it now at http://mtmvegas.shop Want more MTM Vegas? Check out our Patreon for access to our exclusive weekly aftershow! patreon.com/mtmvegas Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at mtmvegas dot com Episode Description This week the IRS finally updated their guidance on handpays for 2026 jackpots. Not only are we seeing the new $2K threshold officially being implemented, but the number is finally tied to inflation. How much will handpays be reduced and will this cost big tips? In other news Caesars Entertainment once again found themselves in a PR nightmare with an erroneous late checkout fee and a new ghost policy that they deny exists. We also discuss: The stunning Vegas Museum of Art, Tuscany's questionable Smash Burger, 5 restaurant trends that need to die, where you can find $5 blackjack still and how the Guitar Tower is dividing the Vegas community. Episode Guide 0:00 Letting the Good Times Roll at Plaza 1:00 IRS guidance for handpays in 2026 2:09 Big cut in handpays and tips? 2:55 Stranger Things insane Vegas drone show 3:54 Las Vegas Museum of Art renderings - Big culture in the desert 6:09 Guitar Tower is dividing Vegas lovers + new looks 7:35 Florida's Guitar Tower holiday celebrations and free Strip entertainment 8:56 Tuscany's questionable "Smash Burger" 9:53 Excalibur's great drinks specials & happy hours 11:03 5 Las Vegas food trends that need to die 12:30 Water scams and influencer woes? 14:41 $5 Blackjack still exists in Vegas 16:46 Late checkout gate at Horseshoe 19:20 Why does Caesars keep running into these issues? 21:15 Has Vegas forgotten about the customer? Each week tens of thousands of people tune into our MtM Vegas news shows at http://www.YouTube.com/milestomemories. We do two news shows weekly on YouTube with this being the audio version. Never miss out on the latest happenings in and around Las Vegas! Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at podcast@milestomemories.com.  You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or by searching "MtM Vegas" or "Miles to Memories" in your favorite podcast app. Don't forget to check out our travel/miles/points podcast as well!

Join me Jenny D. on a delicious journey as I sit down with Jason Capps and Kelly Rodavich about Jason's Journeys Tours to Italy.  Jason shares his passion for authentic Italian culture and cuisine through his unique travel experience.   In this episode, they explain how their small-group Italy tours work, the regions they visit (Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and the new Puglia Project), and why food, local guides, and authentic experiences make their trips special. Tune in to hear about the Magic of Italy, the joy of connecting with local cultures, and the unforgettable experiences that Jason and Kelly offer. Listeners learn how to join, customize, or register for upcoming 2026 trips. Whether you're a food lover, a travel enthusiast, or simply dreaming of Italy, this episode is for you.  Sign up with the link below before the trips are sold out. https://jasonsjourneys.com/ All episodes are available on all the Major Audio Platforms as well as Jenny D's Youtube channel. Make sure to Subscribe and Follow. www.youtube.com/@Spillwithmejennyd If you would like to be a guest or sponsor on Spill with Me Jenny D. Show please fill out the disclaimer on Jenny D's website or send an email to spillwithmejennyd@gmail.com https://www.spillwithmejennyd.com/tell-your-story  

Sara Maestrelli, creative director of Collezione Em, gives James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report an update on her family-owned collection of boutique hotels at this month's ILTM Cannes luxury travel show. Collezione Em now has two hotels in Florence (Minerva and Brunelleschi), one in Venice (Violino d'Oro), and two in Forte del Marmi (Villa Roma Imperiale and the newest Pensione America) on the coast of Tuscany. For more information, visit www.collezioneem.com. All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean,  iHeartRadio,  Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.

Christmas in Italy is magical - for the sights, sounds and most of all the community spirit. Join us as we take a trip around Italy's most Christmassy towns - from Rome's glittering Christmas lights to snow-dusted Alpine villages, sharing insider tips on local traditions, and how to plan your perfect Italian holiday itinerary!Discover our new Christmas in the Dolomites Tour: untolditalytours.comRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/303NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise, Sardinia with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Molly and Kristin speak with Tuscany based cookbook author and wine bar owner Emiko Davies about her varied career and newest cookbook. Emiko shares her globetrotting journey to food writing and how her shifting interests over time show up in her work. She talks about including her passion for art, especially photography, in her work, how she got her initial book deals and how she works a consistent release schedule. She discusses the intersection of food and art in her work, why she wanted to demystify Japanese home cooking in her new book and what the recipe testing process was like. Emiko includes so much of her unique personality in her work and leaves us with some incredible words of advice.Hosts: Kate Leahy + Molly Stevens + Kristin Donnelly + Andrea NguyenEditor: Abby Cerquitella MentionsSpecial Holiday Offer for Everything Cookbook listeners from The Local Palate Cookbook Club: Enjoy 15% off any membership, which includes curated newsletters, marketplace discounts, event invitations, and chances to win cookbooks and kitchen swag. Click the link to sign up: https://thelocalpalate.com/cookbookclub/ and use promotional code EVERYTHING. This special offer expires on 12/25.  Emiko DaviesBlogWebsiteSubstackInstagram Torta della Nonna: A Collection of the Best Homemade Italian Sweets Visit the Everything Cookbooks Bookshop to purchase a copy of the books mentioned in the showThe Japanese Pantry: From Sake to Soy by Emiko DaviesGohan: Everyday Japanese Cooking: Memories and Stories from My Family's Kitchen by Emiko DaviesFlorentine: The True Cuisine of Florence  by Emiko DaviesAcquacotta: Recipes and Stories from Tuscany's Secret Silver Coast by Emiko DaviesTortellini at Midnight: And Other Heirloom Family Recipes from Taranto to Turin to Tuscany by Emiko DaviesCinnamon and Salt: Ciccheti in Venice: Small Bites From The Lagoon City by Emiko Davies

A Paris-based journalist lets us in on what happens behind closed doors at the city's grandest museum when it shuts to the public each Tuesday. And the last apprentice to be trained in the medieval techniques of masonry in Tuscany reveals how ancient secrets help to turn stone into masterpieces of art and architecture. For more information on Travel with Rick Steves - including episode descriptions, program archives and related details - visit www.ricksteves.com.

Writer Andrew Cotto grew up enjoying Sunday lunches around his nonna's table. Years later he found himself in Tuscany enjoying the same conviviality he missed from his childhood. He share the Italian meals and moments that shaped his writing and launched a new career creating Appetito Magazine specializing in Italian food, drink, and lifestyle.Discover authentic Italy: untolditalytours.comRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/302NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise, Sardinia with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Nicole Brignolle, a beloved friend, mentor mom in the Restoration Home Community, and creator of the Lovely Bits Substack, joins Jennifer to talk about lessons learned from Christmas in Tuscany. The conversation with Nicole strikes right at the heart of so many values we espouse at the Restoration Home: quietness, rest, the gift of quiet, and shifting our values to gratefulness and connection. The lessons are learnt from the simplicity of Christmas with less, the Italian value of connection and family, and leaning into what the changing season means for our bodies, our time, and our priorities.  Episode sponsored by the Peaceful Press! You can now buy printed copies of our beloved Holiday Book Flood! Looking for ways to celebrate and enjoy the beauty of the holidays? Check out our Christmas Guides Vol. 1 and 2, and the Unearthing Wonder Advent Guide.  Find the beautiful Peaceful Press Cookbook on Amazon!!   In this episode– What changes as the nights get longer and the days colder and shorter Lessons from the vineyards  Christmas in Italy  The joy of less  Getting back to the heart of why we celebrate Christmas  For simple ways to connect and reframe how you spend your holidays check out The Peaceful Press: Holiday Book Flood.  You can learn more about Jennifer here: Jennifer's Instagram You can learn more about Nicole here: Nicole's Substack  Some Amazon Affiliate Links.

La Dolce Vita on her mind always, Carol loves exploring Italy - from the snowy mountains of the Dolomites to the beaches of Puglia. Traveling Italy has become a passion that's taken her to private palazzi and the hills of Piedmont and she joins us to share her favorite moments and what keeps pulling her back to bella ItaliaJoin us on tour: untolditalytours.comRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/301NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise, Sardinia with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Whether you've been dreaming of Italy forever or you're a regular visitor, no doubt you understand the pull of this remarkable place - its history, beauty, art and architecture, food, wine and friendly people. But did you know Italy has a magical way of transforming you in ways you never expected. Listen in to find out more. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/300NEW! - the Untold Italy app - access our entire podcast history ad free and searchable - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria, Umbria, Molise, Sardinia with much more to comeSupport the showSubscribe to our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning toolkit - subscribe hereNeed help with your trip? Check out our Trip Planning ServicesJoin us on tour. Browse our Trip scheduleFollowSubstackInstagram • Facebook • YouTube Editorial InformationThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke 

Viva l'Italia! We took 50 listeners on an epic journey filled with history, architecture, camaraderie and SO MUCH delicious food! From the ancient layers of Rome through the castles and hilltop villages of Tuscany, the art and influence of the Medici in Florence, to the romance of Venice, this trip was unforgettable! The travelers join us, in their own voices, to tell you all about our adventures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by Taste and See Tuscany: A Journey to Redefining Wealth. This once-in-a-lifetime experience blends luxury travel, cultural immersion, and Purpose Chaser community. Expect wine tastings, cooking classes, laughter, sisterhood, and memories that will last forever. Only a few spots remain — visit https://PatriceWashington.com/Tuscany for all the details.   ✨ This Season has been Dedicated to Mí Amiga, Rachel Luna In honor of my dear friend Rachel Luna, this season is dedicated to her fearless legacy. Please support her work by grabbing a copy of Permission to Offend and, if you feel led, contributing to her family's GoFundMe.