In this special episode, we sit down with retired Judge Anthony Russo of New Orleans — a proud Italian American and one of the co-founders of the Italian American St. Joseph Society. Judge Russo shares the story behind the beloved St. Joseph Parade, an annual tradition that brings the sights, sounds, and spirit of Sicily to the streets of New Orleans every St. Joseph’s Day. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the city’s most anticipated cultural celebrations, Judge Russo reflects on the community, heritage, and joy that keep this parade marching year after year.

Visit their website at: https://italianamericansociety.org

Ever wonder what treasures (and curiosities) you might uncover in a Southern Sicilian fridge down in South Louisiana? In this episode, we crack open the refrigerator and freezer to explore the culinary mashup of Old World tradition and Cajun-country flavor. From homemade red gravy stored in repurposed butter tubs to andouille sausage nestled next to frozen cannoli, we’ll uncover the staples, the surprises, and the downright quirky items that tell the story of family, heritage, and a love of good food. Bring your appetite—and maybe a sense of adventure.

We’re joined by Tony Mangia from At The Table With Tony for a special weekend in South Louisiana during the SIA Spring Serata. From Sicilian street food to classic Neapolitan songs, we dive into the cultural crossover between Southern and Northern Italian Americans. Tune in as we explore our shared roots, the regional flavors that define us, and the traditions that keep Italian-American culture alive—wherever we gather.

In this episode of Bada Bing Bayou, we lay down the law—Italian style. From never showing up empty-handed to knowing that Nonna’s word is gospel, we break down the unspoken rules that govern every Italian American home. Equal parts tradition, superstition, and love, these commandments shaped our childhoods and still guide us today. Light a candle, pour some espresso, and get ready to laugh, nod, and maybe call your mother.

In our first deep dive, we’re sharing our story—where we come from, what shaped us, and why we started this podcast in the first place.

From growing up Italian American in South Louisiana to navigating identity, family expectations, and tradition, this episode sets the table for everything Bada Bing Bayou is about. We talk about the foods we grew up on, the phrases we still hear in our heads, and the values that stuck with us—whether we wanted them to or not.

It’s personal. It’s funny. It’s heartfelt.
And it’s just the beginning.

🇮🇹⚜️ Pull up a chair, pass the bread, and get to know us.

From The Godfather to Goodfellas, Cabrini to My Cousin Vinny, this episode of Bada Bing Bayou is all about the films that defined—and sometimes distorted—Italian American identity. We break down the classics, the clichés, and the cultural impact of seeing our stories on the big screen. Which movies got it right? Which ones made us cringe? And which ones had us saying, “That’s just like my uncle Tony!” Grab some popcorn (or a meatball) and join us for a cinematic stroll through Italian America.

It’s not just a feast—it’s the feast. In this episode of Bada Bing Bayou, we celebrate San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph’s Day), the ultimate Italian American holiday in New Orleans. From elaborate altars and lucky fava beans to stuffed artichokes and marches through the French Quarter, we dive into the traditions, food, faith, and family that make this day so special. For many, it’s the Italian American Super Bowl—and we’re here for every holy, heartfelt, and delicious moment.

For Italian Americans, restaurants aren’t just places to eat—they’re community hubs, family legacies, and living history.

In this episode, we dig into the world of Italian American restaurants—both the ones we grew up in and the ones still holding it down today. We talk red-checkered tablecloths, handwritten menus, kitchen chaos, and the pride (and pressure) of serving culture on a plate.

Whether it’s your uncle’s pizzeria, your Nonna’s recipes, or that neighborhood spot where everyone’s “family,” this one’s for the places that fed more than just our stomachs.

🍝 Come hungry.
⚜️ Leave full—of stories, laughs, and maybe a few meatballs.