Our discussion moves into the sphere of advocacy, where Gerard shares his insights as a criminal defense attorney on the erasure of Columbus Day and the biases prevalent in the legal system. We explore the resurgence of the Italian American Civil Rights League, aiming to unite factions across states to combat stereotypes and demand fair treatment. The past achievements of the League, like the historic gathering at Columbus Circle, inspire our commitment to ensuring the cultural identity and heritage of Italian Americans remain respected and protected.

Throughout the episode, we reflect on the tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit that define the Italian American experience. From the pressures of assimilation to the profound impact on cultural landscapes across anglophone countries, our conversation underscores the significance of representation and understanding. Through personal experiences, we acknowledge the sacrifices of past generations and the ongoing journey to secure a rightful place in a diverse Italian American identity.

THEIR SOCIALS

Italian American Civil Rights League Website:

https://iacrl.org/

X: @theiacrl

Instagram: @theiacrl

Join us on a journey through the heart of Italian American culinary traditions with our guest Francesca from Franny Loves Food. We explore the origins of Francesca's social media presence, which began as a pandemic project on TikTok and has since expanded to other platforms. Discover how her childhood experiences with her mom and nonna inspired her to embrace Italian cooking as a way to pass down traditions to her children. We celebrate the joy and chaos of family gatherings and the importance of preserving cultural rituals to enrich the lives of the younger generation.

Listen in as we navigate the complex landscape of Italian American identity. From recreating traditional recipes with creative twists to the challenges of maintaining cultural identity in a broader American context, this conversation highlights the rich cultural experiences of growing up in an Italian American enclave. We share personal stories of the vibrant communities built by immigrants and reflect on the fusion of Italian culinary traditions and personal heritage, offering a unique perspective on the waves of Italian immigration.

Finally, we explore the powerful connection between food, memories, and cultural identity. Through the lens of family traditions, we discuss the emotional experience of making handmade dishes that serve as links to the past. We also address the balance between honoring tradition and adapting recipes for convenience, while acknowledging social media's role in reviving and sharing these traditions. Francesca shares her journey of gaining confidence in sharing cooking content online and the challenges of navigating social media pressure and authenticity. This episode is a celebration of food, family, and heritage, inviting you to embrace your own cultural roots while pursuing your unique path.

HER SOCIALS

Insta: @frannielovesfood

Tiktok: @frannielovesfood

Youtube: @frannielovesfood

HER WEBSITE

https://frannielovesfood.com/#google_vignette

What if you could seamlessly blend the timeless charm of doo-wop and rock and roll with the vibrant traditions of Italian-American culture? Our special guest, Charlie Romo, takes us on a thrilling ride through the heart of these cherished worlds. Celebrating his 29th birthday with us, Charlie shares his stories of signing, balancing work and family life, and the delightful chaos of teaching students. Laughter and insights abound as we explore the cultural nuances of family gatherings and the importance of community in Italian American life.Foodies and music lovers alike will savor our exploration of Italian-American culinary traditions and the evolution of music from doo-wop to contemporary crooning. Charlie recounts his journey growing up in a musically inclined household, his participation in American Idol, and his mission to keep classic music alive for new generations. The episode is filled with nostalgia as we reminisce about icons like Bobby Darin and Connie Francis, highlighting Charlie's fascinating experiences with memorabilia and projects honoring these legends.As we wrap up, Charlie opens up about his musical evolution, from voice lessons to a brief hiatus for sports broadcasting, and his passion for collecting Bobby Darin memorabilia. We touch on personal legacies, the importance of heritage, and the joy of sharing classic music with younger audiences. Join us for a lively conversation that celebrates the intersection of cultural heritage and music, and stay tuned for his appearance on American Idol! Congrats once again Charlie!HIS SOCIALSInsta: @Charlie_romoWEBSITEhttps://charlieromo.com/home

Imagine stepping into a quaint Italian village where you're the only English speaker, and every interaction is a delightful challenge. Today, we explore the vibrant tapestry of Italian American culture, identity, and the emotional odyssey of reclaiming one's roots through citizenship. This episode is a joyous celebration filled with laughter, personal anecdotes, and heartwarming stories of navigating the cultural contrasts between an American work ethic and the relaxed Italian pace of life.

We’re thrilled to host Christina Prejean and Anthony Calvanese from Become Italiani, who bring their expertise to unravel the complexities of Italian citizenship laws. They guide us through the recent legislative changes and their impact on those tracing their lineage back to an Italian ancestor. A significant shift took place in October 2024, leaving many hopeful applicants in a whirlwind of uncertainty. Our guests emphasize the importance of community support and staying informed as individuals embark on this emotional journey of reconnecting with their heritage.

Through personal tales and engaging discussions, we journey through talk in Italy, exploring its rich cultural nuances and the unique identity that Italian Americans share. From the nostalgic thrill of antique hunting to the challenges of integrating into Italian society, we uncover the layers of history, emotion, and identity that define the Italian American experience. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of belonging, community, and the transformative power of embracing one's cultural roots.

THEIR SOCIALS:

Instagram: @becomeitaliani

BECOMING ITALIANI WEBSITE https://www.becomeitaliani.com/