Hardcore Italians Podcast

In this episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, Mike sits down with Sal “The Voice” for one of our most fun and heartfelt conversations yet.Sal shares the unbelievable story of how he went from delivering pizzas in Queens to becoming an America’s Got Talent finalist, including the moment he flirted with Jennifer Lopez on American Idol, hit on Heidi Klum on live TV, and turned those viral moments into a 10-year career.We also get deep into Italian-American culture—why traditions matter, the difference between “sauce” and “gravy,” why Toronto and Chicago Italians keep the culture alive, and Sal’s ranking of the best Little Italys' in America.Plus, Sal opens up about family, growing up with Sinatra, how his late uncle changed his life, and why Italian-Americans sometimes feel “too Italian” for America and “too American” for Italy.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: ‪@hardcoreitalians‬ Instagram: / hardcoreitalians Facebook: / hardcoreitalians TikTok: / hardcoreitalians

Actress Drea de Matteo (best known as Adriana La Cerva from The Sopranos) joins us to talk about her Italian roots, growing up in Queens, and how playing Adriana became one of TV’s most iconic roles. From her family’s journey “fresh off the boat” from Naples to hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from The Sopranos, Drea opens up about embracing her Italian-American identity, the real story behind Adriana’s death scene, and her favorite memories of James Gandolfini. This episode is full of laughter, authenticity, and Italian pride.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/YouTube: / @hardcoreitalianspodcastInstagram: / hardcoreitalians Facebook: / hardcoreitalians TikTok: / ucvoqb5ibakqiztabclazcra

Actor and comedian Daniel Franzese (best known as Damien from Mean Girls) joins us to talk about his Italian American roots, the inspiration behind Sht Italian Moms Say*, and his family’s Brooklyn-to-Florida journey. From the “psychic powers” of Italian moms to the legendary story of his great-grandfather buying an entire block, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and cultural pride.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

From Broadway to motherhood, Courtney Lopez shares her journey growing up Italian American, embracing Mexican-Italian family values, her Broadway roots, and the behind-the-scenes of life with Mario Lopez.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

The Esteriore Brothers join us to talk about their journey from childhood performances to becoming viral sensations keeping Italian music alive around the world. In this episode, they share what it means to stay true to your roots, the power of family, and how passion and positivity fuel everything they do.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Actress Kathrine Narducci (The Sopranos, A Bronx Tale, Godfather of Harlem) joins Mike for a rich, unfiltered conversation on loyalty, legacy, and life in film. From behind-the-scenes stories with Robert De Niro to her thoughts on mob movies, Italian heritage, and giving back in Hollywood, Kathrine brings heart and humor to every moment. Plus, we talk Chicago vs. Toronto Italians, deep dish pizza, upcoming collaborations, and her passion for preserving culture through connection.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Join host Mike as he sits down with guest Mike Gentile! Dive into candid and unfiltered mob stories, family ties, and hilarious behind-the-scenes escapades from the streets of Chicago. In their signature double-Mike style, they share raw tales of loyalty, risk, and the unforgettable life of being “mob adjacent.” Whether you’re a true crime buff or just love a good story, this conversation is packed with history, humor, and heart. Subscribe now for a unique journey into a world where every secret has a story!

In today’s episode, I sit down with comedian Mike Marino and TheNumba1Guido, to dive into all things Italian – from favourite dishes and family traditions to the humor and pride that come with Italian culture. We chat about growing up Italian, how it’s influenced their comedy, and the excitement around their upcoming show together on November 16. Filled with laughs, insights, and a lot of Italian spirit, this episode is one for anyone who loves good food and great stories!Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitalians?igsh=MTNjaHI1aXBsNWdubA==Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians?_t=8qAm41PNWBZ&_r=1Follow Mike, the owner of Hardcore Italians:https://www.instagram.com/mikecarioscia?igsh=YnplbHZzdHBrbjVsFollow our guests on Instagram: Mike Marino: https://www.instagram.com/mikemarinolive?igsh=MXFiMGh0eDk2YnMxaA== Numba1Guido: https://www.instagram.com/thenumba1guido?igsh=cTV2Mm1mbG15dHFh

Thanks for checking out this interview with John Vincent! John is the residentNational Anthem singer for the Chicago Cubs, known for his unforgettable performances,including his iconic Game 4 rendition during the 2016 World Series, which was praised byLady Gaga. He’s also renowned for his covers of legends like Frank Sinatra, Louis B.Armstrong, and Johnny Cash, with performances at major venues like The House of Bluesand Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Beyond music, John is deeply involved in anti-bullyingadvocacy, speaking to students across the country since 2018. We hope you enjoy thisinspiring conversation!

Check out this exclusive interview with Ron Onesti, conducted by Mike, the owner of Hardcore Italians. They dive into the significance of Columbus Day and its importance in Italian-American culture. Ron Onesti, a renowned event producer and president of the Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, shares his thoughts on preserving heritage and traditions. Don't miss this insightful conversation about a key topic in the Italian-American community!