Two friends, one Negroni, and a wild idea. In our kickoff, we tell the real origin story of Bada Bing Bayou: the kitchen-table napkin sketch, borrowed mics, the first shoot in a too-hot garage, and the neighbor’s leaf blower cameo. Why the name, why South Louisiana, and why Italian-American stories that feel like Sunday dinner.

We share what bombed, what clicked, and the moment the format finally sang. You’ll hear our scrappy workflow (book it, shoot it, fix it in the edit), the gear glow-ups, favorite bloopers, and how the community jumped in to shape the show. It’s personal, messy, and fun—exactly how we like it.

Join in: Subscribe, rate, and drop guest ideas or questions. Tell us your best family story, and we might read it on air.

Ep 1: From Reconstruction to Reckoning (1865–1891)
Bada Bing Bayou kicks off Italian American Heritage Month with a hard look at the first wave of Sicilian and Southern Italian migration after the Civil War. We map the push–pull economics, the padrone labor system, and why thousands landed along the Gulf South. We unpack how Italians were racialized as “in-between" and the rise of mutual-aid societies and parish life that kept families afloat. The episode culminates in the 1891 New Orleans lynching—what led to it, how media and politics weaponized fear, and the precedent it set for civil rights, diplomacy, and identity. Clear-eyed history, primary-source context, and the takeaways that still shape our culture and opportunities today.

Patrick shares his move to Florida, Lawrence talks about becoming an uncle, and the two catch up on everything that’s been going on in their lives.

Patrick and Lawrence sit down with renowned singer and bandleader Lena Prima, daughter of the legendary Louis Prima, to talk music, heritage, and the lasting power of Italian American culture. From growing up in a family of entertainers to carving out her own path as a performer, Lena shares stories from the stage, insights on honoring tradition while embracing modern sound, and what it means to carry forward her father’s legacy. A soulful blend of history, music, and culture—you won’t want to miss this one.

Lawrence and Patrick sit down to relive the magic of the Second Annual Spring Serata, a lively cocktail party hosted by the St. Expedite Lodge of the Order Italian Sons and Daughters of America. From Aperol spritzes to laughter-filled conversations, we break down the night’s highlights, memorable moments, and the joy of bringing paesani together under one roof.

And of course, in true Italian-American fashion, we couldn’t help but notice: no event is complete without at least one guy named Tony… and about five more paesani all answering when someone shouts that same name across the room!

Tune in for stories, laughs, and a taste of the culture we celebrate every year at the Serata.

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.