ITALIAN, FOR SURE | Conversations with Italians in Italy About Italian Culture

Catrin Skaperdas
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

Your ultimate (and accurate) guide to Italian culture! ITALIAN, FOR SURE goes beyond the cliches and stereotypes to reveal the true Italian way of living. Catrin Skaperdas, an American living in Italy, hosts lively interviews with locals in an effort to give Italians the (befitting) stage to passionately share their wisdom, stories and insights about Italy. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * ITALIAN, FOR SURE is perfect for listeners who desire to learn more about Italian culture, dream of moving to Italy, plan on visiting or studying abroad in Italy, or have Italian roots or heritage. It covers topics that help develop your cultural awareness, making it easier to navigate Italy, and equip you with fun facts to share. Listen and embark on a culturally rich journey every other Wednesday at 6:00am CEST that will transport you to different corners of Italy through the voices of locals who make this country truly special. Italians will set the record straight, allowing you to know what’s truly Italian and what’s not by unveiling hidden gems about the Italian customs. (ITALIAN, FOR SURE is created and hosted by Catrin Skaperdas.)

  1. An Italian Expert Explains What Grappa Actually Is - Francesca Nonino on its History, Making Process, and the Biggest Drinking Mistakes

    Jun 17 ·  Video

    An Italian Expert Explains What Grappa Actually Is - Francesca Nonino on its History, Making Process, and the Biggest Drinking Mistakes

    Unlocking the real world of elite Italian drinking culture requires moving past the "lighter fluid" stereotypes to explore the rigorous science, hidden history, and strict family dynamics behind crafting authentic, single-varietal grappa - and don't forget about the lethal production testing required to keep consumers alive. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Francesca Nonino, sixth generation of the Nonino family, and host Catrin Skaperdas have an entertaining and informative conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: What is grappaWhat makes grappa authenticHow grappa was discoveredCatrin's first experience with grappaWhat grappa not to drinkThe test that grappa producers need to do in order to ensure it won’t kill youHow Grappa fits into Italian cultureWhy you need to read the label when you buy/drink grappaThe process of making grappaHow the first single variety grappa was bornRunning a woman-run business ItalyBeing a woman in the grappa industry in ItalyPros and cons of running a family owned business in ItalyFrancesca Nonino’s journey and passion for her family and her companyThe Nonino family storyThe story of the first female master distiller in ItalyHistory of grappa Drinking culture in the U.S. vs ItalyThe biggest mistake you can make when drinking grappaFrancesca’s thoughts on Made in Italy Chapters 2:15 Intro 4:20 What is Grappa 6:54 Catrin’s first experience with Grappa 9:41 How Grappa is part of Italian culture 12:15 Why it’s important to read the Grappa label 16:40 The process of making grappa 21:44 Francesca Nonino’s memory with her Nonno 23:24 The birth of the single variety grappa 26:38 Running a woman-run business in Italy 29:29 The story of the first female master distiller in Italy 31:10 Dynamics of running a family run business in Italy 38:08 Marketing Grappa in the United States 44:18 Drinking culture in the Us and Italy 47:18 The biggest mistake you can make when drinking grappa 49:21 The truth about made in Italy 51:37 Outro More about Francesca Nonino: Francesca Bardelli Nonino, sixth generation of the Nonino family, is Head of Web Communication and co-responsible for the U.S. market alongside her aunt Elisabetta at Nonino Distillatori. After earning a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Management — enriched by a semester at Yonsei University in Seoul and an internship at illycaffè — she joined the company as a Brand Ambassador. Alongside her professional role, she further developed her expertise through two master’s programs in Social Media Communication and User Experience, a certified bartender course, the AIS sommelier certification, and the WSET Level 3 qualification. In February 2021, she was selected by LinkedIn to officially join its global LinkedIn Influencer program, a network of leading entrepreneurs, academics, and managers. In May of the same year, she was recognized as “The Grappa Influencer.” In 2022, she received the America Award for promoting an iconic Made in Italy product overseas. In June 2023, she won the “Digital Night – Talents Transforming the Digital World” award for modernizing the communication of a historic product, followed in October by the “Impact Marketing Award.” In August 2024, she was included in Wine Enthusiast’s global “Future 40” list, highlighting professionals shaping the future of the beverage industry, and was also named among the Top 100 communicators by Forbes Italia. In 2025, she received the Italy Ambassador Award in the Food & Beverage category, dedicated to content creators who promote Italy in the digital world. In 2026, she was awarded the Dominae Prize, recognizing women who represent Made in Italy globally. Her next goal is to learn the art of artisanal distillation from her mother and grandfather and become a Master Distiller. Connect with Francesca on Instagram: www.instagram.com/francesca.nonino This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    51 min
  2. Cultural Confessions of an Italian - Middle Names, Religion, Dating and Sex, Fashion, Egg Freezing and Surrogacy in Italy

    Jun 3 ·  Video

    Cultural Confessions of an Italian - Middle Names, Religion, Dating and Sex, Fashion, Egg Freezing and Surrogacy in Italy

    In Italy, without a comma in-between a first name and a middle name [e.g. Catrin, Austin], the two names become one, legally binding first name [e.g. Catrin Austin]. Did you know that? Or how about the fact that a woman cannot legally thaw eggs she’s had frozen in Italy to use them unless she is in a documented heterosexual relationship; Blows your mind, right? * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Milanese local Giulia Lavinia Futura Baroni and host Catrin Austin Skaperdas have an entertaining and uncensored conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: Middle NamesPopular Given Names, like Giulia: If you grew up in Italy during the 1990s, half of your friends were named Giulia.Religion in a Modern Society: While Italian-Americans fiercely preserve old-school Catholic traditions, modern young families in Northern Italy are increasingly raising their kids completely detached from the Church.Dating, Sex, and Circumcision: An unfiltered look into Italy's view regarding sexual culture, dating rules, and modern intimacy.Fashion in Milan: Milanese fashion is effortless elegance.Egg Freezing: We look at the practical, emotional, and financial realities of freezing your eggs in Italy.Surrogacy: Surrogacy is illegal in Italy.Italian Food: Why Italians don't all balloon in weight despite eating pasta and pizza nearly daily comes down to ingredient quality, processing standards, and walking culture. Trigger Warning: This episode contains open conversations regarding sex, anatomy, and reproductive topics. Disclaimer: The information provided in this episode is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The views expressed are personal experiences and opinions of non-healthcare professionals. Always consult a qualified medical professional for any health-related questions or treatments. Recording Date: This episode was recorded in 2024. All personal reflections reflect the timeline of recording. Chapters: 00:02:08 Intro 00:03:32 Middle names in Italy 00:08:15 Common given names in Italy 00:14:35 Religion in Italy 00:23:47 Dating in Italy 00:39:17 Sex in Italy 00:43:30 Circumcision: Italy vs U.S. 00:47:19 Fashion in Milan, Italy 00:54:28 Egg freezing in Italy 00:58:38 Surrogacy in Italy 01:00:56 Italian food 01:05:23 Outro This interview of ITALIAN, FOR SURE is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 3m
  3. Buying Property in Italy - 1 Euro Homes, Mortgages from Italian Banks, First-Time Buyer Perks, and the One Costly Mistake to Avoid

    May 20 ·  Video

    Buying Property in Italy - 1 Euro Homes, Mortgages from Italian Banks, First-Time Buyer Perks, and the One Costly Mistake to Avoid

    The essential steps to navigating the Italian real estate market are mapped out in this episode of ITALIAN, FOR SURE. Want to buy property in Italy without the stress of landing on financial landmines, or simply curious to learn what it would take to live in the land of the No.1 cuisine in the world, according to TasteAtlas rankings (2025/2026)? * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Specializing in helping foreign buyers buy, invest in, and manage property in Italy, Jacopo Tartaglia (an Italian real estate agent and the founder of Valente Italian Properties) and host Catrin Skaperdas (an American who has bought property in Italy) help make the property buying process in Italy understandable. Jacopo walks you through the process of buying property in Italy, step by step, making it very easy to understand so you’re prepared for your property buying journey - even if you want to buy a castle. Jacopo and Catrin have an entertaining and useful conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: If foreigners can buy a property in Italy, without being a residentIf Italy’s 1 euro homes are worth itOne very helpful tip to avoid spending thousands of dollars unnecessarily and having a major headache to deal withWhat budgets you should consider when looking to buy in ItalyIf foreigners can get a loan from an Italian bank if they’re not a resident in ItalyPerks for 1st time home buyers What costs you should consider when buying property in ItalyPlaces where you can find Italian property listings onlineWhy you shouldn’t overlook a property listing with bad photosIf buying property in Italy is really worth it The top websites for Italian property listings: Immobiliare.itIdealista.it This episode is perfect for people who: Want to buy property in Italy while still living in the USAre moving to Italy and looking for propertyForeigners already living in Italy that want to buy propertyWould be interested in investing in rental property in ItalyWant to understand what it would be like to buy property in Italy Chapters (Apple Podcasts, Spotify): 2:02 Intro 2:33 The most researched city by foreign buyers of property in Italy 6:02 Jacopo explains why he’s the right person to speak about the topic of real estate in Italy 8:22 Where foreign buyers are looking for property in Italy 11:44 If it's worth it to buy 1 euro homes in Italy 13:34 Revealing budgets someone should consider when looking to buy in Italy 15:39 If foreigners can get a loan from an Italian bank if they’re not a resident in Italy 17:26 What costs you should consider when buying property in Italy 17:51 Perks for 1st time home buyers 20:04 One very helpful tip to avoid spending thousands of dollars and having a major headache in the future 23:15 Why you can’t trust Italian real estate agents 25:22 Jacopo walks you through the process of buying property in Italy, step by step, making it very easy to understand so you’re prepared for your property buying journey - even if you want to buy a castle 29:12 Where you can find Italian property listings online 34:43 Why you shouldn’t overlook a property listing with "bad” photos 37:57 Is buying property in Italy worth it 38:30 Property tax benefits in Italy 40:18 Outro Jacopo Tartaglia is a real estate agent and the founder of Valente Italian Properties. Through his work and social channels, he shares practical insights on buying, investing, and living in Italy, helping international clients navigate the Italian real estate market. Contact Jacopo: https://valenteit.com/it/contact-us/&utm_medium=organic&fonte=Youtube&hs_language=it  This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    39 min
  4. The Italian Podcast Market - Co-founder of the Largest Italian Podcast Media Company Offers Insights into the Podcasting Industry in Italy

    May 6 ·  Video

    The Italian Podcast Market - Co-founder of the Largest Italian Podcast Media Company Offers Insights into the Podcasting Industry in Italy

    Get the inside scoop on the Italian podcast market, like what podcast genres are popular (or not) in Italy, how the non-verbal in Italian culture - like Italian hand gestures - affects podcast listening, and growth and monetization techniques. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Francesco Tassi, co-founder and CEO of VOIS, the Milan-based podcast creators network achieving 6M monthly listens, and host Catrin Skaperdas sit down at the VOIS studios (on March 3, 2026) to navigate the evolution of the Italian podcast industry from 2019 to today, bringing you an entertaining and educational episode about Italian media culture inclusive of: The Italian podcast market in 2019 and why VOIS only worked because of where in Italy it was launchedFrancesco gives a podcast 101 lesson about the two waves of podcasting (2004 and 2014)The reaction of Francesco telling his Italian friends and family that he was starting a podcast company in 2019How the podcast market in Italy has changed from 2019 to now and how VOIS has changed from then until nowCross-promotion and monetization techniques in Italy, including dynamic ad insertion (DAI)How podcasts moving toward video has affected the Italian podcast marketHow other forms of media perceive podcasts (e.g. how radio stations see podcasts)How competition exists between podcasts and between podcasts and radioHow the Italian podcast market differs from other markets around the world Podcast genres that are not popular in Italy: comedy and sportsFrancesco describes what they call at VOIS “responsible entertainment”Average length of podcasts in Italy and when people are listening, according to the data, and what Francisco thinks about itHow non-verbal in Italian culture affects Italian podcast listening, or doesn’t (affect it)Francesco talks about how the Italian podcast market is a great opportunity right now Chapters: 01:14 Intro 3:01 The Italian podcast market from 2019 to now 7:03 The reaction of Italians when Francesco told people in his life that he was starting a podcast company 10:03 Italian work culture vs the US work culture 13:39 How VOIS / the Italian market has changed from 2019 until now 16:15 Dynamic ad insertion (DAI) in Italian podcasts 22:56 The sense of competition in the Italian podcast market between radio v podcasts or podcasts v podcasts  27:13 How the Italian podcast market differs from other podcast markets around the world  28:22 Italian podcast genres and why certain ones are more popular than others  33:38 “Responsible entertainment” explained 37:55 Average podcast length in Italy 44:28 How non-verbal in Italian culture affects Italian podcast listening, or doesn’t 50:00 Francesco’s final thoughts on the Italian podcast market 52:00 Outro To learn more about VOIS, check out their website https://vois.fm/ This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    50 min
  5. Living in Italy vs the U.S. - Culture Shocks Between an American and an Italian, Including Cost of Living, Drivers License Exams, Breakups, Health Care, and the Drinking Age

    Apr 22 ·  Video

    Living in Italy vs the U.S. - Culture Shocks Between an American and an Italian, Including Cost of Living, Drivers License Exams, Breakups, Health Care, and the Drinking Age

    Uncover where "Tuscany without the tourists" is and healthcare hacks that can save Americans money, and laugh with us through a cross-cultural roadmap between Italy and the US, on this episode of ITALIAN, FOR SURE. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Italian D.C. resident Amedeo Jashi, real estate and affordable healthcare entrepreneur and content creator, and host Catrin Skaperdas chat their way through cultural differences between Italians and Americans to bring you an entertaining and educational episode about Italian culture inclusive of: Amedeo's views of America and Italy, as an Italian that lives in AmericaAreas of Italy that feel more “Italian” vs lessCost of living in Italy vs AmericaIncome taxes for the employee vs employer in Italy vs AmericaWhy Amedeo thinks Abruzzo is amazingLiving like an Italian in Washington DCHow hard it is to get a drivers license in ItalyDrinking culture in Italy vs AmericaThe difference of Amedeo’s independence as a child growing up in Italy vs Catrin’s independence as a child growing up in the U.S.Gross vs net income in US vs AmericaCost of labor in Italy vs AmericaThe differences of American and Italian health careHow in Italy it’s more common than in the U.S. to have friends who are of the opposite sexBreakup “culture” in the US vs Italy Chapters: 1:08 Intro 3:50 How an Italian views America and Italy  8:06 The cost of living and taxes in Italy 9:58 Amedeo tells us about Abruzzo 13:03 Living like an Italian in Washington DC / An Italian’s view of America’s cost of living 16:39 Getting a drivers license in Italy 18:29 Saving money in the US vs Italy 19:13 Drinking culture in Italy vs America  22:26 Independence in Italy 24:58 The way Italians do business in Italy 28:38 Cost of labor in Italy vs America 31:28 How to be self-employed in Italy 33:54 Healthcare in Italy vs America 44:32 Breakups in Italy vs America 52:22 Why Amedeo calls people peasants 55:23 Outro To check out Amedeo on Instagram, click here https://www.instagram.com/amedeo_iasci/ This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    53 min
  6. Italian Fashion as it Relates to Italian Culture - Made in Italy, Luxury vs Fast Fashion, and How Italians Dress Described by CEO of Stefano Ricci in Florence, Italy

    2024-11-13

    Italian Fashion as it Relates to Italian Culture - Made in Italy, Luxury vs Fast Fashion, and How Italians Dress Described by CEO of Stefano Ricci in Florence, Italy

    In Italy, dressing well is more than just a fashion statement. Stefano Ricci's CEO, Niccolò Ricci, explains the deep-rooted traditions and cultural nuances of Italian style. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * While revealing insights into one of Italy's most prestigious luxury brands, Niccolò and host Catrin Skaperdas have a fun and informative conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: Tips for how to feel comfortable in your clothes and look greatThe different ways to tie a tie (Italy vs U.S.)What "Made in Italy" really meansThe influence of family in Italian fashion brandsWhy proper attire is important to ItaliansFast fashion and quiet fashionWhat Niccolò recommends you to avoid when getting dressedWhat Stefano Ricci does to give back to FlorencePassing along Italian crafts to the future generations -- Stefano Ricci is an International Luxury Fashion and Lifestyle company. For more information about Stefano Ricci, check out https://www.stefanoricci.com/. This interview is also available to watch on Spotify and YouTube. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    38 min
  7. Weddings in Italy - Italian Wedding Traditions, Food, Superstitions, Gifts, Attire, Party Favors, Stories, and More

    2024-10-30

    Weddings in Italy - Italian Wedding Traditions, Food, Superstitions, Gifts, Attire, Party Favors, Stories, and More

    How are weddings in Italy different than weddings in America? As an American that recently got married in Italy, host Catrin Skaperdas noticed a lot of cultural differences between weddings she had experienced in the U.S. and traditions in Italy. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * Join newly-wed American host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Carolina Cornaglia - Event Manager at Casa Scaparone - as they laugh and smile their way through a conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: What do Italians wear to weddings in ItalyWedding superstitionsPre-wedding traditionsBridesmaids/Groomsmen vs TestimoniesIf there is religion present in weddings in ItalyParty favors and "confetti"Wedding bandsSeating planWhat gifts do Italians give at weddings in ItalyFood culture at weddings in ItalyWhat's thrown at the end of Italian wedding ceremoniesStay tuned until the end to hear Carolina share 3 funny, cute, and shocking stories of weddings at Casa Scaparone. -- To learn more about Casa Scaparone, check out: https://www.casascaparone.it/en/ -- This interview was recorded inside the flower atelier at Casa Scaparone. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    34 min
  8. Workout Culture in Italy - Head of Curriculum at Barry's Milan Offers Insights into the Italian Fitness Scene

    2024-10-16

    Workout Culture in Italy - Head of Curriculum at Barry's Milan Offers Insights into the Italian Fitness Scene

    Discover the vibrant world of workout culture in Italy, and join host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Gabriele Tortorella - Head of Curriculum at Barry's Milan - as they laugh their way through a conversation about Italian culture inclusive of: Athleisure in ItalyBoutique fitness studios in ItalyWhat time Barry's opens in Milan vs New York CityWhat clothes people are wearing when they arrive at Barry’s MilanKG (kilograms) vs LB (pounds) and Kilometers vs MilesLocker room habits in Milan (Italy) vs Miami (United States of America)Smoothies and breakfast culture in ItalyHow the Barry's Milan community is reflective of Italian cultureWhat language is spoken at Barry's around the world * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * -- (This interview was recorded inside the iconic Red Room at Barry's Milan and can be watched on Spotify or YouTube.) -- For more information about Barry's Milan, check out https://www.barrys.com/studio/senato/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    29 min
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About

Your ultimate (and accurate) guide to Italian culture! ITALIAN, FOR SURE goes beyond the cliches and stereotypes to reveal the true Italian way of living. Catrin Skaperdas, an American living in Italy, hosts lively interviews with locals in an effort to give Italians the (befitting) stage to passionately share their wisdom, stories and insights about Italy. * Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com * ITALIAN, FOR SURE is perfect for listeners who desire to learn more about Italian culture, dream of moving to Italy, plan on visiting or studying abroad in Italy, or have Italian roots or heritage. It covers topics that help develop your cultural awareness, making it easier to navigate Italy, and equip you with fun facts to share. Listen and embark on a culturally rich journey every other Wednesday at 6:00am CEST that will transport you to different corners of Italy through the voices of locals who make this country truly special. Italians will set the record straight, allowing you to know what’s truly Italian and what’s not by unveiling hidden gems about the Italian customs. (ITALIAN, FOR SURE is created and hosted by Catrin Skaperdas.)

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