ITALIAN, FOR SURE | Conversations with Italians in Italy About Italian Culture

Unlocking the real world of elite Italian drinking culture requires moving past the "lighter fluid" stereotypes to explore the rigorous science, hidden history, and strict family dynamics behind crafting authentic, single-varietal grappa - and don't forget about the lethal production testing required to keep consumers alive.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Francesca Nonino, sixth generation of the Nonino family, and host Catrin Skaperdas have an entertaining and informative conversation about Italian culture inclusive of:What is grappaWhat makes grappa authenticHow grappa was discoveredCatrin's first experience with grappaWhat grappa not to drinkThe test that grappa producers need to do in order to ensure it won’t kill youHow Grappa fits into Italian cultureWhy you need to read the label when you buy/drink grappaThe process of making grappaHow the first single variety grappa was bornRunning a woman-run business ItalyBeing a woman in the grappa industry in ItalyPros and cons of running a family owned business in ItalyFrancesca Nonino’s journey and passion for her family and her companyThe Nonino family storyThe story of the first female master distiller in ItalyHistory of grappa Drinking culture in the U.S. vs ItalyThe biggest mistake you can make when drinking grappaFrancesca’s thoughts on Made in ItalyChapters2:15 Intro4:20 What is Grappa6:54 Catrin’s first experience with Grappa9:41 How Grappa is part of Italian culture12:15 Why it’s important to read the Grappa label16:40 The process of making grappa21:44 Francesca Nonino’s memory with her Nonno23:24 The birth of the single variety grappa26:38 Running a woman-run business in Italy29:29 The story of the first female master distiller in Italy31:10 Dynamics of running a family run business in Italy38:08 Marketing Grappa in the United States44:18 Drinking culture in the Us and Italy47:18 The biggest mistake you can make when drinking grappa49:21 The truth about made in Italy51:37 OutroMore about Francesca Nonino:Francesca Bardelli Nonino, sixth generation of the Nonino family, is Head of Web Communication and co-responsible for the U.S. market alongside her aunt Elisabetta at Nonino Distillatori.After earning a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Management — enriched by a semester at Yonsei University in Seoul and an internship at illycaffè — she joined the company as a Brand Ambassador. Alongside her professional role, she further developed her expertise through two master’s programs in Social Media Communication and User Experience, a certified bartender course, the AIS sommelier certification, and the WSET Level 3 qualification.In February 2021, she was selected by LinkedIn to officially join its global LinkedIn Influencer program, a network of leading entrepreneurs, academics, and managers. In May of the same year, she was recognized as “The Grappa Influencer.”In 2022, she received the America Award for promoting an iconic Made in Italy product overseas. In June 2023, she won the “Digital Night – Talents Transforming the Digital World” award for modernizing the communication of a historic product, followed in October by the “Impact Marketing Award.”In August 2024, she was included in Wine Enthusiast’s global “Future 40” list, highlighting professionals shaping the future of the beverage industry, and was also named among the Top 100 communicators by Forbes Italia. In 2025, she received the Italy Ambassador Award in the Food & Beverage category, dedicated to content creators who promote Italy in the digital world. In 2026, she was awarded the Dominae Prize, recognizing women who represent Made in Italy globally.Her next goal is to learn the art of artisanal distillation from her mother and grandfather and become a Master Distiller.Connect with Francesca on Instagram: www.instagram.com/francesca.noninoThis interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The essential steps to navigating the Italian real estate market are mapped out in this episode of ITALIAN, FOR SURE. Want to buy property in Italy without the stress of landing on financial landmines, or simply curious to learn what it would take to live in the land of the No.1 cuisine in the world, according to TasteAtlas rankings (2025/2026)?* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Specializing in helping foreign buyers buy, invest in, and manage property in Italy, Jacopo Tartaglia (an Italian real estate agent and the founder of Valente Italian Properties) and host Catrin Skaperdas (an American who has bought property in Italy) help make the property buying process in Italy understandable. Jacopo walks you through the process of buying property in Italy, step by step, making it very easy to understand so you’re prepared for your property buying journey - even if you want to buy a castle.Jacopo and Catrin have an entertaining and useful conversation about Italian culture inclusive of:If foreigners can buy a property in Italy, without being a residentIf Italy’s 1 euro homes are worth itOne very helpful tip to avoid spending thousands of dollars unnecessarily and having a major headache to deal withWhat budgets you should consider when looking to buy in ItalyIf foreigners can get a loan from an Italian bank if they’re not a resident in ItalyPerks for 1st time home buyers What costs you should consider when buying property in ItalyPlaces where you can find Italian property listings onlineWhy you shouldn’t overlook a property listing with bad photosIf buying property in Italy is really worth itThe top websites for Italian property listings:Immobiliare.itIdealista.itThis episode is perfect for people who:Want to buy property in Italy while still living in the USAre moving to Italy and looking for propertyForeigners already living in Italy that want to buy propertyWould be interested in investing in rental property in ItalyWant to understand what it would be like to buy property in ItalyChapters (Apple Podcasts, Spotify):2:02 Intro2:33 The most researched city by foreign buyers of property in Italy6:02 Jacopo explains why he’s the right person to speak about the topic of real estate in Italy8:22 Where foreign buyers are looking for property in Italy11:44 If it's worth it to buy 1 euro homes in Italy13:34 Revealing budgets someone should consider when looking to buy in Italy15:39 If foreigners can get a loan from an Italian bank if they’re not a resident in Italy17:26 What costs you should consider when buying property in Italy17:51 Perks for 1st time home buyers20:04 One very helpful tip to avoid spending thousands of dollars and having a major headache in the future23:15 Why you can’t trust Italian real estate agents25:22 Jacopo walks you through the process of buying property in Italy, step by step, making it very easy to understand so you’re prepared for your property buying journey - even if you want to buy a castle29:12 Where you can find Italian property listings online34:43 Why you shouldn’t overlook a property listing with "bad” photos37:57 Is buying property in Italy worth it38:30 Property tax benefits in Italy40:18 OutroJacopo Tartaglia is a real estate agent and the founder of Valente Italian Properties. Through his work and social channels, he shares practical insights on buying, investing, and living in Italy, helping international clients navigate the Italian real estate market.Contact Jacopo: https://valenteit.com/it/contact-us/&utm_medium=organic&fonte=Youtube&hs_language=it This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Uncover where "Tuscany without the tourists" is and healthcare hacks that can save Americans money, and laugh with us through a cross-cultural roadmap between Italy and the US, on this episode of ITALIAN, FOR SURE.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Italian D.C. resident Amedeo Jashi, real estate and affordable healthcare entrepreneur and content creator, and host Catrin Skaperdas chat their way through cultural differences between Italians and Americans to bring you an entertaining and educational episode about Italian culture inclusive of:Amedeo's views of America and Italy, as an Italian that lives in AmericaAreas of Italy that feel more “Italian” vs lessCost of living in Italy vs AmericaIncome taxes for the employee vs employer in Italy vs AmericaWhy Amedeo thinks Abruzzo is amazingLiving like an Italian in Washington DCHow hard it is to get a drivers license in ItalyDrinking culture in Italy vs AmericaThe difference of Amedeo’s independence as a child growing up in Italy vs Catrin’s independence as a child growing up in the U.S.Gross vs net income in US vs AmericaCost of labor in Italy vs AmericaThe differences of American and Italian health careHow in Italy it’s more common than in the U.S. to have friends who are of the opposite sexBreakup “culture” in the US vs ItalyChapters:1:08 Intro3:50 How an Italian views America and Italy 8:06 The cost of living and taxes in Italy9:58 Amedeo tells us about Abruzzo13:03 Living like an Italian in Washington DC / An Italian’s view of America’s cost of living16:39 Getting a drivers license in Italy18:29 Saving money in the US vs Italy19:13 Drinking culture in Italy vs America 22:26 Independence in Italy24:58 The way Italians do business in Italy28:38 Cost of labor in Italy vs America31:28 How to be self-employed in Italy33:54 Healthcare in Italy vs America44:32 Breakups in Italy vs America52:22 Why Amedeo calls people peasants55:23 OutroTo check out Amedeo on Instagram, click here https://www.instagram.com/amedeo_iasci/This interview is available to watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube, and available to listen-only everywhere else you can get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How are weddings in Italy different than weddings in America?As an American that recently got married in Italy, host Catrin Skaperdas noticed a lot of cultural differences between weddings she had experienced in the U.S. and traditions in Italy.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Join newly-wed American host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Carolina Cornaglia - Event Manager at Casa Scaparone - as they laugh and smile their way through a conversation about Italian culture inclusive of:What do Italians wear to weddings in ItalyWedding superstitionsPre-wedding traditionsBridesmaids/Groomsmen vs TestimoniesIf there is religion present in weddings in ItalyParty favors and "confetti"Wedding bandsSeating planWhat gifts do Italians give at weddings in ItalyFood culture at weddings in ItalyWhat's thrown at the end of Italian wedding ceremoniesStay tuned until the end to hear Carolina share 3 funny, cute, and shocking stories of weddings at Casa Scaparone.--To learn more about Casa Scaparone, check out: https://www.casascaparone.it/en/--This interview was recorded inside the flower atelier at Casa Scaparone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sharing her journey between childhood and adulthood in Italy - full of cultural differences that shocked our American host - is Federica Mutti. Content Creator (47k+ YouTube), Published Author, and Co-Founder of MUNU Communications Agency.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *From describing the university experience, to when Italians typically get a first job and why, to the difficulties of obtaining a drivers license, to pros and cons of employment types, and more, join host Catrin Skaperdas, guest Federica, and friend-of-the-podcast Kenneth Hurley as they have an entertaining and thorough chat about what it's like growing up in Italy, inclusive of:Why Federica didn't get her drivers license at the legal age in ItalyWhen Federica got her first job and why her father wasn't happy about itAn Italian's perspective on freelancingWhat the "holy grail" of employment contracts is and why the trust in this contract is decliningHow work-life balance is in ItalyWhat age Italians are considered adultsWhat a resident of Italy needs (by law) before they can freelanceFederica's interesting and inspiring experiences between 18 until 27 years old--For more information about Federica Mutti, check out https://www.federicamutti.com/.This interview is also available to watch on Spotify and YouTube.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(TW: Mentions of suicide and sex)Helping us navigate the mental health system in Italy is Donatella Fiacchino, an Italian clinical psychologist and sex therapist. Whether you're considering relocating to Italy or simply curious about the differences in mental healthcare, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the Italian psyche.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Join host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Donatella as they have an educational, entertaining, and important chat about Italian culture inclusive of:How Italians view mental healthRoutes someone in Italy looking for mental health care can takeFinding therapy in English in ItalyThe ratio of suicide rates in Italy vs the U.S.Steps someone can take to become a clinical psychologist or sex therapistWhy Donatella thinks sex is still a taboo in ItalySex education in Italian's schoolsGender roles in sex in ItalyDifferences between the North and South of Italy on topics surrounding mental health--"The opinions, facts, examples, stories and hypotheses shared by Donatella Fiacchino in this episode come from personal observations on society, from the scientific literature and her psychological knowledge, from data collected via surveys, and from social media content. Examples when talking about people, relationship dynamics and any psychological construct only have explanatory functions and they do not come from the stories of current or past clients of Donatella Fiacchino. There’s never specific reference to current or past clients of hers. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental." - Written by Donatella Fiacchino--For more information about Donatella Fiacchino, check out https://www.donatellafiacchino.com/.This interview is also available to watch on Spotify and YouTube.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stefania Okereke gets deep about her experience as a Black woman that grew up in Cremona, Italy, but not before she shares delicious details about Italian food that she learned while touring Italy to produce a show with Amazon Prime: the first time Stefania saw pappardelle, how to cook a perfect bistecca alla Fiorentina, and more.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Join host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Stefania as they have an educational, entertaining, and important chat about Italian culture inclusive of:Stefania's experience as a Black woman that grew up in Italy"Cheese rolling is a thing!"The time Stefania met Anna Wintour and Khaby Lame at the first ever Black Carpet Awards in ItalyStefania warns you of the 3 Ps: The essential P foods for ItaliansThe importance of time at the table within the Italian culture"I like you so much...but you're not the same."How to cook a perfect bistecca alla FiorentinaAdvice to balance the Italian and London ways of livingThe first time Stefania saw pappardelleStefania leaves us with her thoughts on what needs to change in Italy--More information about Stefania Okereke:Stefania Okereke is a dynamic Italian-Nigerian multimedia broadcast journalist with a wealth of experience in producing and presenting for TV, digital platforms, radio, and podcasts. Over the past five years, Stefania has been at the forefront of news and current affairs, shaping narratives, breaking news, and bringing world events to audiences through acclaimed programs. Her impressive portfolio includes contributions to The One Show, Panorama, Today Programme, BBC London, and BBC World Service’s Newsday, Africa Daily, and Focus on Africa. Additionally, she has worked on reputable programs like What’s Up TV, Sky TV, Channel 4, ITV, BAFTA Awards, and Italy’s Rai 1.A storyteller at heart, Stefania is passionate about bringing people together, amplifying diverse voices, and connecting with underserved communities, making her a true advocate for inclusion and representation in media.--In support of the Black community in Italy:https://www.instagram.com/weafricansunited/?igsh=OTFhYnNsZGRqcnA%3Dhttps://www.instagram.com/colory.it/?igsh=N2hwY3YyMjB5OW5uhttps://blackcarpetawards.com/--This interview is available in video to watch on Spotify and YouTube.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Food is all-around better in Italy than everywhere else in the world... or is it? Pablo D’Ambrosi, Director of Food For Profit, exposes the meat industry in a way you've probably never heard before.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *An Italian living in London and an American living in Italy start the chat by getting into reactions when telling people you live in a different country, whether or not Pablo will say he's Italian at 100 years old still living in London, and how Milan (Italy) has changed over the years.Then, join host Catrin Skaperdas and guest Pablo as they have an entertaining and educational chat about Italian culture inclusive of:Debunking the myth of Italy being all pasta and pizzaWhere the largest fish market in Italy isWhat "Slow Food" isThe dark side of Europe's meat industryWhen in history people started eating meat moreThe Italian-made documentary that 1.5M have watched alreadyWhat animals Italy sees as food or as petsMedicine culture (US vs Italy)Why most of the US meat is banned to be sold in Europe--For more information about Food For Profit, click here https://foodforprofit.com/.This interview is also available to watch on YouTube.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Serious gelato and chocolate cravings might occur after listening to this episode with not-your-average chocolatier, G.B. Mantelli of Venchi, the most important chocolate boutique in Italy in the 19th century.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Become proficient in picking out quality gelato and get advice to ensure you're eating real chocolate with only the best ingredients. Learn the origin story of chocolate and what type of chocolate people typically enjoy around the world.Join host Catrin Skaperdas, G.B. Mantelli of Venchi, and friend-of-the-podcast Kenneth Harley as they have an entertaining chat about Italian culture inclusive of:When and Where the First License to Craft Chocolate was GivenHow to Identify a Good Gelateria in ItalyHow Venchi's Bright Packaging Relates to Italian Food CultureWhat Gianduja is (Hint: It's Similar to Nutella)How G.B.'s Experiment at age 15 Became Award-Winning ChocolateG.B.'s Recommended Gelato Flavor PairingsWhat Exciting new Venchi Products are Launching in September 2024How the Secret of Spanish Chocolate Arrived in ItalyHow Venchi Embraces Local Cultures Around the WorldWhere to Find Venchi in the U.S.--For more information about Venchi, check out the website https://us.venchi.com/.This interview is also available to watch on YouTube.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gain an inside perspective on Italian wellness (or in Italian: "benessere") and how Italian's approach self-care. Dive into fascinating insights about Italian culture that are reflected in Italian spas, like the importance of silence and the presence of public displays of affection, while distinct philosophies of wellness between Italy and the U.S. are highlighted.* Join the ITALIAN, FOR SURE Trip to Italy! https://italianforsurepodcast.beehiiv.com *Join friend-of-the-podcast Kenneth Harley and QC Spa of Wonders Cofounder and CEO Andrea Quadrio Curzio as they have an entertaining chat about Italian culture inclusive of:Secrets to Relaxing and ReconnectingPoignant Origin Story of QC Spa of WondersGive Values in Italy and Italianness ("Italianità")Phone Culture and Public Displays of AffectionAncient Traditions of Thermal BathsDifferences in Self-Care (Italy vs U.S.)How Beauty Rewards YouRunning vs Walking CulturesWhere to Find Wellness and Beauty in Everyday LifeExciting New Locations of QC Spa of WondersThroughout the interview, Kenneth and host Catrin Skaperdas will chime in with their thoughts.--For more information about QC Spa of Wonders, check out the website www.qcterme.com.This interview is also available to watch on YouTube.--This interview was conducted in Italian by friend-of-the-podcast Kenneth Harley and was translated to English using AI.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Entertaining and Insightful Conversations about Italian CultureOn Italian, For Sure, host Catrin Skaperdas (an American living in Italy) interviews Italians about the Italian society and culture, spreading accurate information about Italy with Italian people in an entertaining way.Italian, For Sure is the perfect podcast for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Italian culture, including new residents or visitors of Italy and those with Italian ancestry.Available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.