Italian American Stories Podcast
A podcast that rediscovers the forgotten stories of Italian Americans in the newspapers of the past.
Recent Episodes
March 19, 2025
Episode 53: Dr. Louis Ignarro
In this special episode, we sit down with Dr. Louis Ignarro, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist with deep Italian American roots. Born to immigrant parents from Naples and Sicily, Dr. Ignarro shares how his upbringing in Brookly...
March 5, 2025
Episode 52: Maria Barbella Part 2
In this episode, we continue the incredible and dramatic story of Maria Barbella, the first woman in America sentenced to die in the electric chair. After public outcry and support from a determined countess, Maria was grante...
Feb. 20, 2025
Episode 51: Maria Barbella - Part 1
Today, we dive into one of the most dramatic cases in Italian American history—the story of Maria Barbella , the first woman in America sentenced to die in the electric chair. Maria's story is one of love, betrayal, and justi...
Feb. 13, 2025
Episode 50: Valentine's Day Special 2025
Happy Valentine’s Day! In this special episode, we’re bringing you a collection of historical love stories—some sweet, some dramatic, and some downright scandalous! First, we take you back to 1879 with a New York Herald artic...
Feb. 6, 2025
Episode 49: A Conversation with Amici
In this special episode, we welcome the entire band Amici ! While we previously spoke with lead member Stephen Pishner, this time, the whole group joins us to share their journey. We dive into how they came together, their ex...
Jan. 30, 2025
Episode 48: Joseph Bona
In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Joseph Bona, a prominent Italian American mortician in Denver, Colorado. From his humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming the trusted undertaker for Buffalo Bill Cody, ...
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About the Hosts
Stephanie Detton
Stephanie is the creator and co-host of the Italian American Stories Podcast. When she is not researching stories, she is busy teaching and spending time with friends and family!
Sandra
Sandra is the co-host of the Italian American Stories Podcast. When she is not recording for the podcast, she enjoys spending time with family!