Best Italian Roots Podcasts (2025)

1
Exploring Italian-American Identity with Richard Vetere 42:38

Play Pause

6d ago42:38

42:38

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Richard Vetere shares his experiences growing up in an Italian-American family in New York City, discussing the influence of his heritage on his work as a playwright. He reflects on the importance of family, food, and cultural identity, as well as his experiences in Italy. Vetere offers valuable insight…

1
Chef Massimo Orlando and Jack Ross on Italian Roots, Food Culture, and Resilience 57:41

14d ago57:41

57:41

In this episode of the Walk-In Talk Podcast, Carl sits down with Chef Massimo Orlando and Jack Ross for a powerful conversation about Italian heritage, food culture, and the stories that shape who we are. Chef Massimo Orlando shares his journey from growing up in Italy and learning to cook in his grandmother's kitchen to working professionally at a…

1
Episode 977: Soul Shakedown Party December 23 1:56:43

1d ago1:56:43

1:56:43

Playlist: Reemus K/DJ Lericks – Remember Those Days Norrie G – Sun Rise King Kong – Repatriation Young Kulcha – Come Pick Me Up Dub Inc/Kabaka Pyramid – Break The Silence Mungo's Hi Fi/Mr Williamz – Session Haffi Cork Skarra Mucci/Manudigital – Inna Mi Brain L'Entourloop/Eesah/Hollow Point/Danny English/Echo Minott/Bunny General/Triston Palmer - Mu…

1
Why AI Can't Replace the Human Genealogist: 41 Years of Lessons 8:31

5d ago8:31

8:31

In this episode I share why AI is an amazing helper but still can't replace the human genealogist: from reading sloppy 19th‑century cursive to spotting phonetic name tricks, legal nuances, and the emotional connections that make family history matter. Check out the companion blog post for this podast on my genealogy website! You can view it HERE.…

1
The Quiet Work of Belonging in Hospitality with Marina Baronas and Chef Carl Riding 42:51

6d ago42:51

42:51

Belonging is not something you arrive at. It is something you build. In this episode of Walk-In Talk Media, Carl Fiadini sits down in studio with Marina Baronas, hospitality leader and author of A New Life, A New Menu: An Almanac of Belonging. Raised across Lithuania, Russia, and Azerbaijan, Marina came to the United States at nineteen without spea…

1
Episode 976: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica December 18 56:13

6d ago56:13

56:13

Plays: Pinchers – Champion Bubbler Pinchers – For Your Eyes Only Pinchers – Good Love Pinchers – Tek It From Dem Aza Lineage – Victory Dub Inc – Atlas Alpha Blondy – J'ai Tuè Le Commissaire Boukman Eksperyans – Sevelen Thierry – Not Alone Alborosie – Trench Town Legend Ken Boothe – No Woman No Cry Marcia Griffiths – I'm Hurting Inside Marcia Griffi…

1
840: Holiday Traditions Around the World with Hetty Lui McKinnon and Yasmin Khan 49:25

6d ago49:25

49:25

This week, we’re celebrating the holidays by looking beyond, into global stories that shape the season. First, we talk with Hetty Lui McKinnon about her new book, Linger: Salads, Sweets and Stories to Savor, and what the holidays look like in Australia, where Christmas is hot and the seafood markets buzz at midnight. Hetty reflects on the vegetable…

1
Episode 123: Vegana Italiana: Reimagining Italian Classics with Chef Tara Punzone and Gene Stone 33:00

8d ago33:00

33:00

As a native New Yorker, Chef Tara Punzone brought her Italian American roots and love of vegan cooking to Los Angeles, where she opened Pura Vita in West Hollywood—the first 100% plant-based Italian restaurant in the country. She has teamed up with acclaimed writer Gene Stone, whom you may know from Forks Over Knives, 72 Reasons to Be Vegan, How No…

1
Episode 975: Soul Shakedown Party December 16 1:52:31

9d ago1:52:31

1:52:31

Playlist: The Originals – No! The Originals – Re Senza Trono The Originals – The Model Pitura Freska – Marghera Le Tremende – Gatto Dub Smooth Beans – Walk The Streets Keith & Tex – Simple Man Keith & Tex – On The Streets Roy Ellis & Rude Boy Paradise – The Skinheads Dem A Come The Oldians/Saphie Wells – Shuffle Boogie Train The Oldians/Memi Sillah…

1
Episode 974: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica December 11 58:04

11d ago58:04

58:04

Playlist: Dennis Sindrey – Campus Hop Simms & Robinson/Blues Busters – I Done You Wrong Rolando Alphonso – Bongo Tango The Wailers – Go Jimmy Go Lord Creator – Unfaithful Baby Tony & Howie – Fun It Up Jackie Mittoo – Reggae Magic Prince Lincoln – Live Up To Your Name Burning Spear - He Prayed Gladiators – Roots Natty Dub Specialist – Still Water Ve…

1
Uncovering Sicilian Chicago Family Connections 42:34

13d ago42:34

42:34

Send us a text In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Christina Marrocco, an English professor, author, and poet, about her Italian heritage and the impact of cultural displacement on Italian American communities. They discuss the history of Italian neighborhoods in Chicago, the importance of preserving language and cultural identity, and …

1
816: Crumbs with Ben Mims and Wild Chocolate with Rowan Jacobsen 49:24

14d ago49:24

49:24

It’s the holiday season, and we’re kicking it off this week with some sweet treats. First, food editor and recipe developer Ben Mims joins us with his latest project, covering over 300 cookie recipes from Asia to the Levant to Scandinavia to the Caribbean. The varieties are astonishing. We get into cookie styles, the fascinating ingredients in regi…

1
Episode 122: "Half-Assed Homesteading" - My Harvest Kitchen with Gesine Bullock-Prado 36:27

15d ago36:27

36:27

I recently welcomed back Gesine Bullock Prado to the podcast. You may remember our first conversation in Episode 66, where we explored her love of baking, life in Vermont with its six distinct seasons, and her journey as a pastry chef, baking instructor, author, and television personality. Gesine has now released her newest book, My Harvest Kitchen…

1
Episode 973: Soul Shakedown Party December 09 1:55:32

16d ago1:55:32

1:55:32

Playlist: Nat Birchall – Onibaba IZN Anbessa – Mama Africa Jah Defender – Roots The Tighters/Keith & Tex – Africa Will Rise Jalen Ngonda – All About Me Wesley Benjamin – What A Shame Mungo's Hi Fi/Kenny Knots – Rise & Gravitate Gaudi – Fragile hands Gaudi - Cool Jazztice Gaudi – Alabaster Moon Skip Marley – In Our Sight 18th Parallel/Roberto Sanche…

1
Episode 972: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica December 04 57:44

19d ago57:44

57:44

Playlist: Morgan Heritage – Reggae Music Johhny Osbourne/Burro Banton – Truths & Rights Anthony B – World A Music Alaine – Jah Jah Cry Alaine – No Ordinary Love Lila Ikè – Sweet Alborosie – 9 Mile Pinchers – Tek It From Dem Pinchers - Pinchers – Tek It From Dem Aza Lineage – Victory The Originals – No! Original Sicilian Style – Makise Gaudi – Jazzt…

1
The Ties That Bind: Exploring Italian Ancestry Toritto 43:47

20d ago43:47

43:47

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino and Jennifer Schipper explore their Italian heritage, discussing family connections, cultural traditions, and the impact of technology on maintaining relationships. They share personal stories about their experiences in Italy, the differences in cuisine, and the importance of family ties.…

1
839: A Journey Through Southern Food with Michael W. Twitty and Deb Freeman 49:28

21d ago49:28

49:28

This week, we’re taking a trip through the South and its food – how it tells the story of a region shaped by migration, memory, and culture. First, we talk with scholar and writer Michael W. Twitty about his new book, Recipes from the American South, a sweeping look at the many communities – Black, white, Indigenous, immigrant – whose traditions bu…

1
Episode 121: Lebanese Baking with Maureen Abood: Traditional and Modern Middle Eastern Recipes Rooted in Home and Heritage 32:19

22d ago32:19

32:19

Raised in a Lebanese-American family in Michigan, Maureen Abood’s passion for cooking, baking, and storytelling shines through her work—whether on her website, in her first cookbook Rose Water and Orange Blossoms (an IACP Award finalist), or in her New York Times features on Middle Eastern cuisine. Now, she’s released her newest book, Lebanese Baki…

1
Episode 971: Soul Shakedown Party December 02 1:58:01

23d ago1:58:01

1:58:01

Playlist: Jah Mason – Watching The World Jah Mason – Mama Struggle Jah Mason – Tuff Music Jah Mason – No Given In Gaudi – Susceptible ScaraMan – Shall Fall In Dub Alborosie – Ipanema Original Sicilian Style – Gramigna The Originals – No! The Originals – Re Senza Trono Elijah/Mike Brooks – Keep On Rocking Breakfast Mood – Will He Show His Face Zion …

1
Bonus Episode: Do Holidays Leave You Exhausted, Not Restored? Priya Parker, Francis Lam & Kate Bowler on Celebration 36:23

24d ago36:23

36:23

Today we have a bonus episode for you from Happier with Gretchen Rubin, featuring our very own Francis Lam. Gretchen Rubin is HAPPIER, and she wants you to be happier too. The #1 bestselling author of The Happiness Project and Better Than Before gets more personal than ever as she brings her practical, manageable advice about happiness and good hab…

1
Episode 970: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica November 27 58:56

26d ago58:56

58:56

Playlist: Jimmy Cliff – Fundamental Reggay Jimmy Cliff – I'm Sorry Jimmy Cliff – Miss Jamaica Jimmy Cliff – King Of Kings Jimmy Cliff – Let's Dance Jimmy Cliff – Sunshine In The Music Jimmy Cliff – Wonderful World, Beautiful People Jimmy Cliff – Many Rivers To Cross Jimmy Cliff – The Harder They Come Jimmy Cliff – You Can Get It If You Really Want …

1
The Legacy of Surnames in Sicily 11:17

27d ago11:17

11:17

Send us a text Bob Sorrentino explores the profound significance of Sicilian names, illustrating how they encapsulate a rich history of invasions, migrations, and cultural exchanges. He emphasizes that surnames are not merely labels but are deeply intertwined with personal and collective identity, reflecting a vibrant tapestry of heritage that cont…

1
796: Soup Season with Mariana Velásquez, Gregory Gourdet, and Jing Gao 49:38

28d ago49:38

49:38

This week, we welcome the cold with delicious soup! Food Stylist Mariana Velásquez Villegas, author of Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia talks us through Colombia's biodiversity and regional identity and the unique foods it inspires like Sancocho. This hearty stew brings people together in a communal dining …

1
Turkey Confidential 2025 1:55:57

28d ago1:55:57

1:55:57

Join us for Turkey Confidential, our must-listen-to annual Thanksgiving Day broadcast! This year’s guests are Samin Nosrat, author of bestseller Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat and Good Things; Brooklyn-based recipe developer Yossy Arefi, author of Snacking Bakes and Snacking Cakes; Vivian Howard, author, TV personality, and chef, known for This Will Make It…

1
Episode 969: Soul Shakedown Party November 25 Jimmy Cliff Tribute 1:56:16

30d ago1:56:16

1:56:16

Playlist: Thierry – Borderline Thierry – Real Love Jimmy Cliff – Many Rivers To Cross Jimmy Cliff – I'm Sorry Jimmy Cliff – Hurricane Hattie Jimmy Cliff – King Of Kings Jimmy Cliff – Hard Road To Travel (soul version) Jimmy Cliff – Hard Road To Travel Jimmy Cliff – Serenou Jimmy Cliff – Wonderful World Beautiful People Jimmy Cliff – Vietnam Jimmy C…

1
Episode 968: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica November 20 57:47

1M ago57:47

57:47

Playlist: Johnny Clarke- Young Rebel Johnny Clarke – Love Up Johnny Clarke – Love Up Dubwise Johnny Clarke – Peace & Love In The Ghetto Johnny Clarke – Rock With Me Johnny Clarke – Top Ranking Johnny Clarke – Joshua's Word Johnny Clarke/Dillinger – Waiting In Vain Johnny Clarke – Fire Inna Kingston Johnny Clarke – Ride On Girl Johnny Clarke – Time …

1
The Healing Power of Words and Music 46:59

1M ago46:59

46:59

Send us a text Discover the captivating world of opera and italian culture through the incredible voice of Cristina Fontanelli, a renowned performer who has graced the stages of NYC Opera and beyond. With her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, Cristina Fontanelli embodies the essence of italian heritage, bringing to life the timeless b…

1
Barbecue With Purpose: Stan Hays and Champion Pitmaster Tillman Lee Nelson III 39:56

1M ago39:56

39:56

In this episode, Carl sits down with Stan Hays, co founder and CEO of Operation BBQ Relief, to talk about what it really looks like to feed people on the worst day of their lives. From the recent deployment to Jamaica after a massive hurricane to the emotional weight of serving their thirteen millionth meal, Stan shares the stories behind the numbe…

1
815: Your Thanksgiving meal with Deb Perelman and J. Kenji Lopez-Alt & Desi Bakes with Hetal Vasavada 49:09

1M ago49:09

49:09

We are a week away from Thanksgiving, and this week, Award-winning authors J. Kenji Lopez-Alt and Deb Perelman give us the best advice on making the perfect Thanksgiving spread. From gravy hot takes to best brining practices and the ideal way to cook a perfect turkey we have you covered. J. Kenji López-Alt and Deb Perelman are co-hosts of "The Reci…

1
Origin of Abruzzo Surnames 10:50

1M ago10:50

10:50

Send us a text Learn the true origin and meaning of Abruzzo surnames — shaped by medieval traditions, occupations, local saints, and the mountain villages of central Italy. Perfect for anyone researching Abruzzese roots or exploring Italian genealogy. Support the show Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here or at Amazon.…

1
Episode 120: Heartland Masala: Cooking with Auyon Mukharji 36:32

1M ago36:32

36:32

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Auyon Mukharji, who is a musician, writer, and culinary historian. Together with his mother, Jyoti Mukharji, who is a chef, teacher, and retired physician, Auyon co-authored Heartland Masala: An Indian Cookbook from an American Kitchen. From their home in Kansas City, Heartland Masala takes you on a culi…

1
Episode 967: Soul Shakedown Party November 18 1:49:45

1M ago1:49:45

1:49:45

Playlist: Hollie Cook – In The Pictures Kingston Express/Johnny Clarke/Horseman – Unity Black Slate – Key To The World Soothsayers – Nothing We Could Do Gaudi – H.E.L.P. The Right Stuff/Gloria – Man Next Door Inna Vision/Mellow Mood – Faith & Deeds Nightshift/A#keem – Sunset Nightshift/David Cairol – Sunflower Dubmatix/Michael Rose – Easy Down Dubm…

1
The Surprising Secrets Behind Italian Surnames! 9:31

1M ago9:31

9:31

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what your Italian surname really means? We'll explore the fascinating world of Italian culture and heritage, focusing on the origins and significance of Italian surnames. From common names like Bianchi and Rossi to the most unusual Italian surnames you may have never heard of, we will uncover the stories behind…

1
Episode 119: Bake it Gluten-Free with Dana Pollack 31:25

1M ago31:25

31:25

Dana Pollack is the founder and creative force behind Dana’s Bakery. Trained in fine baking and pastry arts at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York, Dana transformed her love of baking into a thriving business known for its playful, colorful, and innovative treats. You may have seen her DIY macaron-making kits featured on QVC or discover…

1
Discovering Italian Roots Made EASY with AI Technology 37:53

1M ago37:53

37:53

Send us a text Discover the fascinating world of Italian culture and heritage with the help of cutting-edge AI technology with Moreno Brusauro. In this video, we explore how artificial intelligence is making it easier for people to discover their Italian roots and connect with their ancestral heritage. From tracing family trees to exploring the ric…

1
Episode 966: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica November 13 59:25

1M ago59:25

59:25

Plays: Chronixx – Smile Jamaica Chronixx – Black Is Beautiful Chronixx – Never Give Up Chronixx – Saviour Tamlins – Baltimore Welton Irie – Hotter Reggae Music Al Campbell – Declaration Of Rights Dailey Bread – Rastaman Zion The Future – My Wish Carlton Livingston – Call The Police Elijah Solomon/Mike Brooks – Keep On Rocking Revelation – Afraid Of…

1
Chef Freddy Money - Michelin Excellence at Atlas and the U.S. Culinary Open 43:23

1M ago43:23

43:23

Takeaways: The Walk and Talk podcast serves as a vital platform for food lovers and culinary professionals alike, highlighting the intricate narratives behind the culinary arts. Chef Freddie Money, the 2025 US Culinary Open champion, reflects on his journey, illustrating the significance of discipline and creativity in a professional kitchen. Trave…

1
838: Our All-American Thanksgiving with Padma Lakshmi and Dorie Greenspan 49:23

1M ago49:23

49:23

This week, we’re celebrating Thanksgiving and looking at the way this American holiday and its food tell our stories. First, we talk with Padma Lakshmi about her new cookbook, Padma’s All American, a celebration of the immigrant dishes and regional traditions that make up our country’s culinary landscape. Padma talks about what she’s learned from y…

1
Episode 118: 30-Minute Meals the Whole Family Will Love: with Steph Loaiza of Six Sisters’ Stuff 27:17

1M ago27:17

27:17

Along with her sisters, Steph Loaiza founded Six Sisters’ Stuff in 2011 as a way to stay connected and share cherished family recipes. What began as a simple family blog quickly evolved into a go-to resource for families everywhere seeking to simplify dinner while still bringing everyone together around the table. Over the years, Steph and her sist…

1
Episode 965: Soul Shakedown Party November 11 1:51:31

1M ago1:51:31

1:51:31

Playlist: Izn Ambessas – Addis Ababa Tsadiq – Gebre - Menfes – Qiddus Tsadiq – Gebre - Menfes – Qiddus Dub Son Rob/Sistalova/Valeria Upbeat – New Flower Son Rob/Marco Isla – New Flower Dub Cienfuego/Petrillo – Wicked Man World Original Sicilian Style – Cutilisci Assalti Frontali/One Love Hi Powa – Big Reunion Sista Manu – Jamaicampania Marina P & C…

1
Untitled From Basilicata to NYC: Our Family's Journey from Italy to America 47:45

2M ago47:45

47:45

Send us a text In this captivating conversation, Michael Canzanaro dives into the vibrant history of his Italian family, tracing their roots back to the enchanting Basilicata, Italy. He shares his grandfather's incredible journey to America in 1890, his dreams of becoming a fresco artist, and the hurdles he faced as an immigrant. The narrative unfo…

1
Episode 964: Soul Shakedown Party on Hitz 92 FM Jamaica November 06 57:35

2M ago57:35

57:35

Playlist: Alaine – Summertime Yeza – Star From East Sister Nancy – Ain't No Stoppin' Lila Ikè – Love In A Lovely Way Kelissa McDonald – The Way You Make Me Feel The Right Stuff/Gloria – Man Next Door Aza Lineage – Victory Jennifer Lara – Consider Me Marcia Griffiths – Don'r Let Me Down Judy Mowatt – Emergency Call Rita Marley – Friends & Lovers Mar…

1
Cooking Through the Cuts: How Chef Ciji Castro Fights Food Insecurity Through Tradition 36:11

2M ago36:11

36:11

Chef Ciji Castro imparts invaluable insights into the art of transforming humble ingredients into delectable comfort food, emphasizing the critical need for resourcefulness in the face of escalating food insecurity. Throughout our dialogue, she shares her expertise in crafting a traditional puerco guisado, a slow-cooked pork stew, while ingeniously…

1
814: Ottolenghi Comfort with Yotam Ottolenghi and Classic German Cooking with Luisa Weiss 49:48

2M ago49:48

49:48

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Pandora | Amazon Music | YouTube This week, we talk about comfort food around the world. First, Yotam Ottolenghi tells us about his latest book, which is filled with recipes for his favorite comfort foods. He talks about what it is about specific dishes that evoke emotional reactions, from taste to texture to m…

1
Episode 117: From the Test Kitchen to the Great Outdoors: Cooking with Melissa Knific 30:45

2M ago30:45

30:45

Melissa Knific is a recipe developer, writer, magazine editor, and editorial food director with over 20 years of experience with some of America’s beloved food brands and media outlets, including New York Times Cooking, Allrecipes, TODAY Food, National Geographic, and more. With a background in journalism and a culinary degree from the French Culin…