Classic & Curious

Anne Kokoskie

Classic & Curious is a lifestyle podcast for those who value timeless style and the art of living a well-edited life. Hosted by Anne Kokoskie, the show introduces you to those that inspire thoughtful living. Through thoughtful conversations with artisans, designers, brands and creative thinkers, we dive into the details that elevate the everyday. Home & Craftsmanship: From interior design to the makers behind the objects we cherish. Travel & Exploration: Discovering historic destinations and boutique travel experiences. Entertaining & Hospitality: The art of hosting, tablescaping, and the well-lived kitchen. Join us for a more intentional way of living, where beauty and substance meet.

  1. Jun 8

    Handsome Is as Handsome Does: James Dolenc & Tom Riker on Finding Your Voice in Design, Business, and Home

    In this episode, Anne sits down with James Dolenc and Tom Riker, the founders of James Thomas, to explore their unconventional path from corporate careers to building one of Chicago’s most respected residential design studios. James and Tom share the story behind their 23-year partnership, the lessons they’ve learned growing a business together, and why culture has remained at the heart of their firm’s success.  Their work has been featured in leading design publications, showcased on Homeworthy and most recently selected for the 50th Anniversary Kips Bay Decorator Show House in New York, one of the design industry’s most prestigious showcases.   Along the way, they discuss the importance of kindness in leadership, developing a distinctive brand voice, mentoring the next generation of designers and creating homes that feel deeply personal rather than trend-driven. They also offer their unique perspective on how anyone can discover and express their own “voice” through their personal homes.  This episode is a thoughtful conversation about partnership, creativity, and the values that sustain both a design practice and a meaningful life. As with every Classic & Curious episode, the conversation concludes with a collection of inspirations—from favorite hotels and brands to timeless advice and unexpected discoveries—offering a deeper glimpse into the people, places, and ideas that continue to spark curiosity and s​hape a considered life. Connect with James Thomas on IG @jamesthomasinteriors and JamesThomasInteriors.comConnect with Anne: @classicandcuriouslife, classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

    39 min
  2. May 15

    The Power of Music and Storytelling with Acclaimed Trumpeter Dominick Farinacci

    In this soulful episode of Classic & Curious, Anne sits down with internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter, composer, and storyteller Dominick Farinacci for a conversation about music, humanity, and the stories that connect us. From growing up in Cleveland to becoming part of Juilliard’s inaugural jazz studies program — under the influence and mentorship of jazz legend Wynton Marsalis and the community of Jazz at Lincoln Center — Dominick shares the experiences that shaped both his artistry and his understanding of music as a universal language. Together, Anne and Dominick explore how music can transport us, create connection, and bring people together across cultures and generations. Dominick reflects on his global experiences, the emotional power of jazz, and how music became a bridge between people and shared human experience. Known for his TED Talk at the Kennedy Center on music, wellbeing, and mental health, Dominick also shares the personal experiences that transformed his work, including his mother’s cancer journey and the creation of Modern Warrior Productions, an immersive storytelling platform centered around resilience, healing, and the power of storytelling through music. At its heart, this episode is about the beauty of storytelling — the kind that makes us slow down, lean in, and linger a little longer at the table. Because whether through music, memory, or shared experience, these are the conversations that remind us what it means to live a full and beautiful life. Connect with Dominick @DominicklifeConnect with Anne: @classicandcuriouslife, classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

    28 min
5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Classic & Curious is a lifestyle podcast for those who value timeless style and the art of living a well-edited life. Hosted by Anne Kokoskie, the show introduces you to those that inspire thoughtful living. Through thoughtful conversations with artisans, designers, brands and creative thinkers, we dive into the details that elevate the everyday. Home & Craftsmanship: From interior design to the makers behind the objects we cherish. Travel & Exploration: Discovering historic destinations and boutique travel experiences. Entertaining & Hospitality: The art of hosting, tablescaping, and the well-lived kitchen. Join us for a more intentional way of living, where beauty and substance meet.

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