The Italian American Podcast

Red Sauce Studio
  • 4.7 (376)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

The Italian American Podcast is the first and most engaging podcast dedicated to helping Italian Americans learn about and celebrate their brilliant heritage. We're obsessed with our heritage, and each week we'll discuss all things Italian American- including history and family traditions, genealogy, recipes, language, and more with smarts, heart, and a lot of laughs! We'll be joined by celebrity guests, experts, authors, and everyday Italian Americans for honest and thoughtful conversations digging deep into the "hows and whys" of who we are, and sharing the heart of the Italian American experience with the 25 million Americans lucky enough to have been born Italian! And, like all the best Italian American conversations, ours take place around the kitchen table- meaning every time you tune in you'll be entertained, educated, and brought right back to where you belong… amongst family!

  1. 4d ago

    IAP 427 From Pizza Shop Hustles to Sneaker Success: The Story Behind Direct Kicks

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, hosts John, Marcella, and Pat sit down with Louis Lacarbonara, owner of Direct Kicks, a buy, sell, and trade sneaker store in Westchester County, New York. Louis shares how his entrepreneurial mindset was shaped by working in his family's pizzeria and launching small ventures as a kid, from selling pizza slices and gum to classmates to reselling sneakers online while attending Oklahoma State University. He reflects on the challenges of growing from an online business to multiple brick-and-mortar locations, overcoming obstacles such as flooding, legal disputes with landlords, and the constant demands of running a retail business. The conversation also explores the explosive growth of the resale market and the changing perception of secondhand goods. Louis explains how terms like "used," "pre-owned," and "vintage" influence consumer behavior, while discussing the appeal of collectible sneakers, Pokémon cards, Legos, and other hobby markets. The hosts examine how social media, limited releases, and scarcity fuel demand, and why collecting has become as much about identity and community as ownership. Throughout the episode, Louis emphasizes the importance of adaptability, persistence, and staying personally involved in every aspect of the business, from cleaning shoes to negotiating large collections. Drawing on lessons learned from family, college, and years of entrepreneurship, he offers practical insights into building a business that thrives through hard work, strong relationships, and a willingness to evolve with the market.   HIS SOCIALS: Instagram: @DirectKicks Facebook: Facebook.com/DirectKicks HIS WEBSITE: www.DirectKicks.com STORE ADDRESS: 236 Mamaroneck Ave, Mamaroneck NY 10543  HOSTED BY: John Viola Patrick O'Boyle Marcella Martin Special Guest: Louis Lacarboncara

    IAP 427 From Pizza Shop Hustles to Sneaker Success: The Story Behind Direct Kicks

  2. Jul 20

    IAP 426 Remembering Resistance: Andrew Novo's Where the Mountains Burn and Italy's Wartime Legacy

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, hosts Pat and Danielle Oteri welcome historian and author Andrew Novo to discuss his new novel, Where the Mountains Burn. The conversation begins with a lighthearted exchange about Italian heritage before turning to the importance of highlighting the intellectual, cultural, and historical contributions of Italian Americans beyond familiar stereotypes.   The discussion centers on Where the Mountains Burn, a novel inspired by the wartime experiences of Novo's grandfather, Rinaldo. Born in the United States but raised in Piemonte, Rinaldo witnessed the upheaval of Fascist Italy and ultimately joined the resistance as a partisan. Novo explores the hardships and moral complexities of wartime, while also reflecting on the lasting impact Rinaldo's experiences had on his family. Along the way, Pat and Danielle provide broader historical context on the Italian resistance and Italy's turbulent twentieth century.   The episode concludes with a conversation about the importance of historical fiction in preserving Italian and Italian American history. Pat, Danielle, and Andrew encourage listeners to support the humanities, read widely, and engage with the stories that continue to shape the community's understanding of the past. HOSTS: Patrick O'Boyle  Danielle Oteri SPECIAL GUESTS: Frank Ingrasciotta PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 426 Remembering Resistance: Andrew Novo's Where the Mountains Burn and Italy's Wartime Legacy

  3. Jul 11

    IAP 425 | Bridging Two Worlds: Addison Basile on Language, Identity, and Italian American Culture

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, hosts John and Pat welcome Addison Basile, a Georgetown graduate, Fulbright Scholar, and linguistics and psychology major, to discuss her passion for Italian language and culture. The conversation explores Italian American identity, the role of language in shaping belonging, and how Addison even used the podcast itself as part of her linguistic research. Addison reflects on tutoring Italian at Georgetown, which inspired her to launch the Instagram account "ciaoitaddy", where she shares accessible lessons on Italian language and culture. She also discusses the unique perspective of teaching as a non-native speaker and explains why curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to make mistakes are essential to language learning. The episode concludes with a discussion of Addison's senior thesis, which examined how Italians perceive second-language speakers in everyday interactions. Her research found that genuine effort and a desire to communicate are often valued more than grammatical perfection. The hosts also highlight the importance of supporting young scholars and initiatives like Italian American Future Leaders to strengthen ties between Italy and the Italian American community.   HER SOCIALS: Instagram:@ciaoitsaddy Facebook:@ciaoitsaddy   Any Events that are coming up to note: - If anyone wants to do a collaboration with her (US or Italy) they can contact Addison at ciaoitsaddy@gmail.com   HOSTED BY: John Viola Patrick O'Boyle SPECIAL GUEST: Addison Basile PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 425 | Bridging Two Worlds: Addison Basile on Language, Identity, and Italian American Culture

  4. Jul 5

    IAP 424 Larry Ruvo on Family, Philanthropy, and the Fight Against Alzheimer's

    The Italian American Podcast welcomes Larry Ruvo for a heartfelt conversation with hosts Marcella Martin and Pat. The episode begins by exploring Ruvo's family story, tracing the journey of his Italian Canadian and Italian American parents from Niagara Falls to Las Vegas, where they opened the Venetian Pizzeria, the city's first pizzeria. Along the way, Ruvo shares colorful memories of family life, Frank Sinatra's enduring loyalty to the restaurant, and an era when trust and a handshake were often the foundation of business.   The discussion then turns to Ruvo's extraordinary philanthropic work and the founding of the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in partnership with the Cleveland Clinic. Inspired by his father's battle with Alzheimer's disease and his mother's dedication as a caregiver, Ruvo explains the center's mission to advance research, improve patient care, and support families living with neurodegenerative diseases. He also highlights the center's iconic Frank Gehry-designed building, the impact of the Women's Alzheimer's Movement, and the growing importance of gender-specific research, early detection, caregiver support, and private philanthropy in the search for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.   Throughout the conversation, Ruvo, Marcella, and Pat reflect on the enduring values of family, education, faith, and community, while considering the challenges of preserving Italian American identity across generations. Filled with humor, personal stories, and thoughtful insights, the episode is a moving reminder of how heritage, compassion, and generosity can leave a lasting impact on both individuals and society. HOSTS: Patrick O'Boyle  Marcella Martin SPECIAL GUEST: Larry Ruvo PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 424 Larry Ruvo on Family, Philanthropy, and the Fight Against Alzheimer's

  5. Jun 28

    IAP 423 Joe DiMaggio's 56-Game Hitting Streak: Baseball's Unbreakable Record?

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, hosts John and Pat are joined by Dan Marucci for a discussion of Joe DiMaggio's legendary 56-game hitting streak and its enduring place in both baseball history and Italian American culture. The conversation explores why many consider the record unbreakable and how DiMaggio became a source of pride for generations of Italian Americans. The hosts also reflect on his complex personality, sharing stories that reveal both his reserved nature and his acts of generosity.   The discussion examines how baseball has changed since DiMaggio's era. From specialized pitching staffs and a global talent pool to shifting media habits and shorter attention spans, the hosts consider whether any pursuit of a historic record could ever unite the country as DiMaggio's streak once did.   Marucci also discusses his novel, which imagines a modern Italian American ballplayer chasing DiMaggio's seemingly unreachable mark. The conversation expands to family traditions, food, gardening, and the importance of preserving Italian American stories, highlighting the enduring connection between sports, heritage, and community. HOSTED BY: John Viola Patrick O'Boyle SPECIAL GUEST: Daniel Marucci PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 423 Joe DiMaggio's 56-Game Hitting Streak: Baseball's Unbreakable Record?

  6. Jun 21

    IAP 422 A.P. Giannini: The Italian American Who Helped Build Modern America

    Few Italian Americans have shaped the United States as profoundly as A.P. Giannini, yet his name remains largely absent from the national conversation. In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, Pat, Marianna, and award-winning filmmaker Davide Fiore explore the remarkable life and legacy of the founder of the Bank of Italy, which later became Bank of America. Through the lens of Fiore's acclaimed documentary, they examine how Giannini revolutionized banking by extending financial opportunities to immigrants, working-class families, and women—groups often excluded from traditional institutions—and why his story deserves far greater recognition today.   The conversation also highlights Giannini's extraordinary vision and humanitarian spirit. Following the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake, he famously rescued the bank's assets and immediately began extending credit to help rebuild the city when others would not. His belief that banking should serve ordinary people helped fuel some of America's greatest achievements, including support for Walt Disney, the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, and early investments in what would become Silicon Valley. Giannini's life offers a powerful example of entrepreneurship guided by responsibility, optimism, and service to the common good.   Beyond Giannini himself, the episode explores broader themes of Italian American identity, cultural memory, and the enduring ties between Italy and the United States. The hosts reflect on how traditions evolve across generations, how media shapes public perceptions, and why positive stories of Italian American achievement matter. It is a thoughtful conversation about heritage, innovation, and one man whose vision helped transform America while remaining largely forgotten by history. HIS SOCIALS: Instagram: @davidefiore_ig Facebook: @DavideFioreOfficialProfile Threads: @davidefiore_ig Vimeo: @davidefiore TikTok: @the_neurotic_auteur HIS WEBSITE: Website: www.davidefiore.tv, www.alittlefellowmovie.com HOSTED BY: Patrick O'Boyle

    IAP 422 A.P. Giannini: The Italian American Who Helped Build Modern America

  7. Jun 13

    IAP 421 Tailoring, Tradition, and the Craftsmanship of Naples

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, Pat and Marcella welcome Nico Radano for an engaging conversation about Italian heritage, Neapolitan tailoring, bespoke menswear, and the enduring legacy of Italian craftsmanship. From family roots in Cilento to the cultural traditions of Naples, Nico shares how his background inspired him to leave a career in biotechnology and launch a clothing brand dedicated to authentic Neapolitan style and handmade elegance. The discussion explores the rich history of Neapolitan tailoring, the philosophy behind bespoke clothing, and why investing in high-quality, handcrafted garments remains one of the best alternatives to fast fashion. Nico explains what makes Italian tailoring unique, how Naples became one of the world's great centers of menswear, and why traditional craftsmanship continues to attract a new generation of enthusiasts. Pat, Marcella, and Nico also examine changing attitudes toward style and dress in Italy and the United States, discussing the decline of formal dress codes, the influence of social media, and the growing appreciation for artisanal products. Whether you're interested in Italian culture, classic menswear, bespoke suits, Naples, or the future of traditional craftsmanship, this episode offers fascinating insights into the people and traditions keeping these timeless skills alive. Nicola Radano — Founder, CEO & Designer of NR Napoli Social Media Handles: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nr_napoli Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NRNapoli Website: www.nicolaradano.com Any Events Coming Up to Note for Nico: * Japan Pop-Up — End of June 2026 * Chicago Collective — July 31st to August 4th * Hamptons Pop-Up Weekend — 13to16 August, hosted at the The Maidstone Hotel His Shop:  www.nicolaradano.com/shop HOSTS: Patrick O'Boyle  Marcella Martin SPECIAL GUEST: Nico Radano PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 421 Tailoring, Tradition, and the Craftsmanship of Naples

  8. Jun 7

    IAP 420 Calcio, Community, and the Loss of the World Cup Tradition

    In this episode of the Italian American Podcast, John and Pat are joined by guest Peter Curto for a lively discussion on the cultural and emotional significance of soccer—especially Italian calcio—and the impact of Italy's absence from the World Cup. The conversation explores the sense of loss felt across Italian and diaspora communities as generations have missed the tradition of gathering with family and friends to watch the matches together. Reflecting on past tournaments, the hosts recall how those moments strengthened ties to heritage, identity, and community.   The episode also examines why Italy has struggled on the world stage in recent years. Peter Curto offers insight into the decline of domestic player development, the growing internationalization of Serie A, and the changing relationship younger generations have with sports and public life. Technological shifts, professionalized youth athletics, and evolving social habits have all contributed to the fading of the spontaneous communal celebrations that once defined World Cup summers.   As the conversation concludes, the hosts discuss ways to revive that spirit through youth soccer initiatives, Italian American tournaments, local community events, and digital platforms capable of reconnecting fans across distances. Nostalgic yet hopeful, the episode reflects on soccer's enduring ability to unite generations and sustain cultural identity even amid the pressures of modern life. PETER CURTO'S SOCIALS: Owner & CEO: @supra_soccer Instagram: petercurto_ Facebook: petercurto_ X: petercurto_ HIS WEBSITE: suprasportsagy.com   HOSTED BY: John Viola  Patrick O'Boyle Marcella Martin SPECIAL GUEST: Peter Curto PRODUCED BY: Nicholas Calvello-Macchia

    IAP 420 Calcio, Community, and the Loss of the World Cup Tradition
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About

The Italian American Podcast is the first and most engaging podcast dedicated to helping Italian Americans learn about and celebrate their brilliant heritage. We're obsessed with our heritage, and each week we'll discuss all things Italian American- including history and family traditions, genealogy, recipes, language, and more with smarts, heart, and a lot of laughs! We'll be joined by celebrity guests, experts, authors, and everyday Italian Americans for honest and thoughtful conversations digging deep into the "hows and whys" of who we are, and sharing the heart of the Italian American experience with the 25 million Americans lucky enough to have been born Italian! And, like all the best Italian American conversations, ours take place around the kitchen table- meaning every time you tune in you'll be entertained, educated, and brought right back to where you belong… amongst family!

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