Episodes

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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, ...

In this episode, we uncover the story of Julius Cesar Carrera, or JC—a brilliant and largely overlooked figure in American history. An educator, mineralogist, professor, and pioneer in the mining industry of the western Unite...

It’s time for another installment of Tales from the Archives ! In this mini-episode, we dive into quirky and unexpected stories from old articles about Italian Americans. Hear about a man chased up a tree by a bull, two women...

In this deeply personal episode, we share a story brought to us by Chris Massari, a follower on Instagram, about the tragic murder of his great-aunt Augustina Massari. Witnessed by her younger brother, Mario—Chris’s grandfath...

Step back in time to 1930s North Denver’s Little Italy, where a shocking murder tested a family's strength. In this episode, we unravel the tragic story of Theresa Spanarella, who was killed by her jealous brother-in-law, Ale...

We've on a break for the holidays, but thought we would re-release our first Christmas Special Episode! Merry Christmas, Everyone! Dive into the warmth of the season with our Christmas Special episode of Italian American Stor...

In honor of Veterans Day, I’m joined by my husband Jared, a Marine veteran, as we pay tribute to Italian American hero Neil Iovino. Together, we explore Neil’s story, his bravery, and his remarkable service. Join us for this ...

Get ready for a spooky, fun-filled Halloween special! In this episode, we dive into lighthearted stories of Italian Americans celebrating Halloween, from mischievous pranks to a woman balancing a pail of beer on her head, and...

In this episode, we explore the tragic and mysterious story of 5-year-old Sammy Sabell from Denver’s Little Italy. In 1928, the close-knit Italian community came together to search for Sammy after he vanished. Despite their e...

In this special "Paesani Tales" segment, we share the life story of Crescenzo Vigliotta, as told by his great-grandson, Alexander. Crescenzo was a devoted family man who worked tirelessly to support his loved ones. Known for ...

In this episode, we chat with Danielle Fusco, a talented Italian American artist. Danielle shares how her deep connection to both creative expression and spirituality has shaped her journey. From her unique healing practices ...

In this episode, we sit down with Anna Harsh, the founder and artistic director of Allegro Dance Company. As a professional dancer, award-winning choreographer, and author, Anna shares her passion for preserving traditional I...

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Pishner, a proud Italian American with a deep passion for uncovering his family’s history. Stephen shares stories from his extensive research, which he’s turning into a book, and give...

In this episode of The Italian American Stories Podcast , we explore the fascinating life of Ann Corio, an iconic burlesque performer who became a star during the 1930s and 1940s. Known for her talent and charisma on stage, A...

In this episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, I sit down with Margaret Fontana, a dynamic leader who runs her own media company, hosts a podcast, and serves as the executive director of the New Jersey Italian Herit...

In this episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we bring you our very first video interview with none other than Danny Rossi, famously known as "The Hot Dog King." Danny, a Vietnam veteran and proud Italian American,...

In this episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we explore the lives of Guido and Margaret Rossi, a remarkable couple who built an 800-acre cattle ranch in Oak Creek, Colorado. Guido, known for his quiet demeanor and...

In this special episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, join us as we delve into the remarkable life of Amore Raso, an Italian immigrant who became a pioneering figure in Grand Junction, Colorado. His investment in t...

Join us for our second "Tales from the Archives" episode! This special segment of the podcast will cover stories and articles that are too small for a full episode but still deserve to be told!