Latest Episodes

In 1911, Sicilian immigrant Concetto Formica was murdered while working as a musician with a traveling carnival in North Carolina. What happened next is one of the strangest stories we've ever researched. His embalmed body remained in a funeral home's garage for 61 years, where generations of locals came to know him as "The Italian Mummy." Join Stephanie and Sandy as they revisit this remarkable true story with new research and fresh conversation.

After years of dreaming about it, we finally made the journey to Italy. Join us as we travel through Rome, Matera, Potenza, the Amalfi Coast, and Pompeii while exploring our family's roots in Basilicata. Along the way, we share unforgettable moments, incredible food, local festivals, and the emotional discovery of the Smaldone family tomb in Potenza.

In Episode 95 of Italian American Stories, we tell the tragic and often overlooked story of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca — the forgotten victims of the Manson murders. We explore their Italian American roots, the horrifying events inside their Los Angeles home, and the strange details that still haunt this case today.

A mysterious fire in Denver… and a strange Ouija house in California. In this episode, we uncover two bizarre Italian American stories filled with unanswered questions, obsession, and events that still don’t make sense.

A DNA test in her 50s revealed a life-changing truth—Christine McBurney was half Italian. What followed was a powerful journey into family secrets, identity, and the discovery of a father she never knew.

In 1906 Denver, a young Italian immigrant named Carmelina Fiorino shot and killed her husband—but was it murder or self-defense? This shocking case of love, control, and survival captivated the city and still raises questions today.

A powerful Italian immigrant story of resilience, hardship, and the American Dream—following Joseph Benvenuti who started working at just six years old and built a life that shaped generations.

Nick Guardione, professional strongman and Arnold Strongman Classic competitor, shares his journey from his Italian roots in Sicily to competing on one of the biggest stages in strength sports.

In this episode, we dive into the mindset, discipline, and family values that shaped his path—from everyday beginnings to performing in front of thousands alongside the world’s strongest athletes.

Nick recently competed in the Arnold Strongman Classic, one of the most elite competitions in the world, and shares what it’s like to step onto that stage alongside legends of the sport. From the pressure of performing in front of thousands to hitting personal records, he gives us an inside look at the life of a professional strongman.

But this story goes far beyond competition.

Nick opens up about his Italian heritage, his family’s journey from Italy to the United States, and the deep influence of his father—whose legacy continues to drive him every time he steps onto the competition floor. What began as a way to cope with loss turned into a passion, and ultimately, a career.

We also dive into:

• His journey from cross country runner to elite strongman

• The mindset required to compete at the highest level

• The culture and camaraderie within the strongman world

• His connection to Italy, including family vineyards and summers abroad

This is a story about strength—but also about identity, purpose, and carrying your family name with pride.

In this episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, Stephanie welcomes writer and historian Brian D’Ambrosio, author of the book Italian-Americana: Explorers, Entertainers, and Eccentrics.

Brian’s book highlights more than forty fascinating individuals whose lives helped shape the Italian American experience across centuries—from early explorers and Revolutionary War patriots to entertainers, athletes, and unforgettable personalities.

During the conversation, Brian discusses several figures featured in the book, including legendary bodybuilder Charles Atlas, football player Brian Piccolo, and other notable Italian Americans whose stories reflect the wide range of accomplishments, struggles, and contributions within the Italian American community.

Rather than focusing only on immigration through Ellis Island, Brian’s work explores a much broader timeline, revealing how Italian heritage has been woven into the fabric of American history long before and long after the great waves of immigration.

If you enjoy discovering lesser-known stories and unique personalities from Italian American history, this episode offers a brief look into the many remarkable individuals featured in Italian-Americana.

You can find Brian’s book Italian-Americana: Explorers, Entertainers, and Eccentrics through major booksellers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

A Wednesday in Boston’s Little Italy.
January 15th, 1919 began like any other day in the North End.

Children walked home from school.
Delivery drivers made their usual rounds.
Families went about their daily routines.

But by the afternoon… everything would change.

Episode 88 of the Italian American Stories Podcast is now available.