Italy Answered: Your Guide to Authentic Italian Experiences

Epizodes

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  Trading Burnout for Balance: Dustin & Luigi's Move from Canada to Italy 15.07.2026 41min

  What happens when you trade the fast pace of city life for a slower rhythm by the Adriatic Sea?In this episode of Italy Answered, Lisa Morales speaks with Dustin Cox and Luigi Albanese, a creative couple who left Toronto in 2024 to begin a new chapter in Abruzzo, one of Italy's most up-and-coming regions for those seeking a different quality of life.After years of balancing demanding careers in Canada, they found themselves longing for something more meaningful: time, creativity, community, and a closer connection to family. Today, they're navigating the realities of everyday life in Italy while building careers, learning the language, and dreaming of opening an artistic B&B that celebrates the culture and beauty of Abruzzo.With their move still fresh, Dustin and Luigi offer an honest perspective on the excitement—and challenges—of relocating to Italy, from bureaucracy and learning Italian to discovering why slowing down has become one of life's greatest rewards.In this conversation, we explore:• Why they decided to move from Canada to Italy• Choosing Abruzzo over Italy's more well-known regions• Learning Italian and navigating Italian bureaucracy• Finding community in a small town near Pescara• How a slower lifestyle has transformed their creativity• Their vision for an artistic B&B showcasing authentic Abruzzo• Why Dustin prefers the term "immigrant" over "expat"Read the full article and follow along with the edited transcript: https://liveinitalymag.com/trading-burnout-for-balance-why-two-creatives-chose-life-in-abruzzo/ We'd love to hear your feedback.Email us at lisa@liveinitalymag.com
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  Chat with Federico Bricolo | Vinitaly, Wine Tourism & Italy's Global Vision 11.07.2026 9min

  In this special on-location episode of Italy Answered, the podcast edition of Live in Italy Magazine, we speak with Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere, during the Vinitaly.USA Miami Preview ahead of Vinitaly.USA, taking place October 26–27, 2026, in New York City.From Verona to Miami, our conversation explores how Vinitaly has evolved beyond its annual exhibition into a year-round international platform promoting Italian wine, education and trade. We also discuss one of the industry's fastest-growing opportunities: wine tourism, and its ability to connect travelers with Italy's remarkable wine regions.In this bilingual conversation, Bricolo discusses:• how Vinitaly has evolved into the global home of Italian wine • the organization's international strategy through Vinitaly Around the World • why wine tourism is becoming an essential part of Italy's wine story • how wineries are transforming into authentic travel destinations • Miami's role in strengthening Italy's presence in the American marketThe interview is presented in Italian with English questions and English subtitles available in the video version.Read the accompanying article: https://liveinitalymag.com/beyond-verona-how-vinitaly-is-expanding-italys-wine-story-through-tourism-and-global-connections/Special thanks to Federico Bricolo, Veronafiere, Vinitaly, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), Coldiretti, and Jacqueline Pirolo and the team at Macchialina for their hospitality.
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  Italian Heritage in Canada | Daniela Sfara on Identity, Tradition & Slow Food 04.06.2026 41min

  What does Italian heritage mean to newer generations growing up outside of Italy?In this episode of Italy Answered, Lisa Morales speaks with Daniela Sfara, founder of Italus, about preserving Italian culture, regional identity, artisanal traditions, and intergenerational storytelling in Canada.Raised between Toronto and Calabria, Daniela grew up immersed in both Italian and multicultural Canadian life. Today, through culinary experiences, digital storytelling, and cultural education, she helps younger generations reconnect with Italy beyond stereotypes and surface-level tourism.Released during Italian Heritage Month in Canada, this conversation explores the evolving relationship between Italy and the Italian diaspora while reflecting on the traditions, dialects, recipes, and values that continue to shape generations of Canadians with Italian roots.In this conversation, we explore:• Growing up between Toronto and Calabria• The importance of dialect and regional identity• Why younger generations are reconnecting with Italy• Slow Food philosophy and cultural preservation• Food as memory, identity, and community• The evolution of Italian heritage in Canada• Building Italus through storytelling and culinary experiencesDaniela also reflects on how traditions continue evolving across generations while remaining deeply connected to family, place, and community.Read the full article and transcript: https://liveinitalymag.com/category/italy-answered/Follow Daniela Sfara and Italus: Instagram: @danielasfara Instagram: @italus.patrimonio Website: danielasfara.comFollow Daniela Sfara and Italus: Instagram: @danielasfara Instagram: @italus.patrimonio Website: danielasfara.com
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  Raising a Family in Italy | Charlotte Fortier-Mutzl’s Life in Sardegna 28.05.2026 45min

  What does it really look like to leave North America behind and raise a family in Italy?In this episode of Italy Answered, Lisa Morales speaks with Charlotte Fortier-Mutzl, the Canadian creator behind American Mom in the Med, about her journey from Quebec and Florida to a new life in Sardegna (Sardinia).What began as a solo backpacking trip through Europe eventually led Charlotte to Rome, where she met her husband before later relocating to Sardegna to build a slower and more intentional family life surrounded by nature, community, and the sea.Today, Charlotte shares her experiences raising bilingual children in Italy, navigating entrepreneurship abroad, embracing Sardinian culture, and documenting daily life through social media and her new podcast, Passport to Pasta.In this conversation, we explore:• Moving from Canada to Italy• Raising bilingual children in Sardegna (Sardinia)• Why Charlotte left Rome for island life• The realities of building businesses abroad• Blue Zone living and slower family rhythms• What makes Sardegna different from the rest of Italy• Creating a sense of home abroadFor anyone dreaming about raising a family in Italy or starting over in a new country, Charlotte’s story is both inspiring and refreshingly honest.Read the full article and transcript: https://liveinitalymag.com/category/chat-with-an-expat/Follow Charlotte Fortier-Mutzl:Instagram: @americanmominthemedPodcast: @passporttopastaWe’d love to hear your feedback. Email us at lisa @ liveinitalymag.com
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  Chat with Nicolangelo Gelormini | La Gioia & Italian Cinema 16.05.2026 9min

  In this special on-location episode of “Italy Answered,” the podcast edition of Live in Italy Magazine, we speak with Italian director Nicolangelo Gelormini at the Miami Film Festival about his film “La Gioia.”Blending architecture, emotional storytelling, and contemporary Italian cinema, “La Gioia” explores themes of love, illusion, manipulation, and the human desire to feel seen.In this bilingual conversation, Gelormini discusses:• his transition from architecture to filmmaking• the emotional concept of “diseducazione sentimentale”• the meaning behind Gioia’s character• contemporary Italian society and relationships• and presenting the film to an international audience in MiamiThe interview is presented in Italian with English questions and subtitles available in the video version.Read the accompanying article:https://liveinitalymag.com/cinema-as-encounter-la-gioia-and-the-emotional-architecture-of-italian-film/Thank you to Nicolangelo Gelormini, the Miami Film Festival, and the Istituto Italiano di Cultura Miami.Photos & B-roll Courtesy of The Miami Film Festival (film stills by the La Gioia production team.)
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  Moving to Italy Solo: Stefanie Reilly’s Leap at 40 11.03.2026 35min

  What does it really take to move to Italy on your own later in life?In this episode of Italy Answered, Lisa Morales speaks with Stefanie Reilly, an Italian-Australian communications professional who made the bold decision to move to Italy solo shortly after turning 40.What began as a personal journey to reconnect with her Italian heritage eventually led Stefanie to build a new life in Lecce, in the region of Puglia, and launch To Italy and Back, a relocation service helping others navigate Italian citizenship, visas, and the realities of starting over in another country.Stefanie shares what it was like to leave a successful career in Australia, face the complexities of Italian bureaucracy, and arrive in southern Italy without knowing anyone.In this conversation, we explore:• Moving to Italy as a single woman• Navigating the citizenship process• Why Lecce in Puglia became home• Building friendships and community abroad• The emotional and practical realities of relocating later in lifeFor women considering a new chapter in Italy, Stefanie’s story is both inspiring and refreshingly honest.Read the full article and transcript: https://liveinitalymag.com/moving-to-italy-solo-at-40-chat-with-stefanie-reilly/We’d love to hear your feedback. Email us at lisa @ liveinitalymag.com
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  Sara Digiesi on Sustainable Hospitality and Leadership in Italy 28.02.2026 28min

  In this episode of Italy Answered, Lisa Morales sits down with Sara Digiesi, Chief Executive Officer of BWH Hotels Italy & South-East Europe, for a conversation on sustainable hospitality, women’s leadership, and Italy’s evolving role on the global stage.From her roots in southern Italy to leading nearly 185 properties across the country, Sara shares her journey through marketing, distribution, sustainability, and executive leadership. She explains what ESG truly means in hospitality, why “net positive hospitality” requires giving back more than you take, and how leadership must extend beyond profit to people and place.Together, they discuss:● What hospitality leadership in Italy looks like today● The meaning of “net positive hospitality”● Supporting autistic guests, families, and inclusive travel● Sustainable growth beyond traditional tourism models● The evolution of boutique and experiential luxury travel● What women bring to executive leadership roles● The emotional experience of carrying the Olympic torchThis episode is part of the Chat with an Expert series and is presented alongside a full, follow-along transcript on Live in Italy Magazine — ideal for readers who prefer to listen and read together.🎧 Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 📖 Read the full transcript on Live in Italy Magazine💛 Support independent storytelling on Patreon
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  Moving to Milan and Falling in Love with Sara in Italia 🇮🇹 08.02.2026 37min

  What does it really mean to move to Italy—and find love along the way?In this episode we sat down with Sara of Sara in Italia and her husband Vincenzo for an honest conversation about moving to Milan, navigating cross-cultural marriage, and building a life abroad beyond the postcard version of La Dolce Vita.Sara shares her journey from the Midwest to Milan, including studying abroad in Rome, securing a work visa, adjusting to Italian work culture, and the realities of living in Italy as a foreigner. Vincenzo offers the Italian perspective, reflecting on career opportunities, cultural differences, and what it means to build a relationship across languages and traditions.Together, they talk openly about:Moving to Milan for yourself—and finding love along the wayCultural differences in marriage and daily lifeItalian work culture versus expectations of La Dolce VitaSocial media, storytelling, and setting boundaries onlineWhat foreigners should know before moving to ItalyWhat each country gets right—and what’s missed when you leaveThis episode is part of the Chat with an Expat series and is presented alongside a full, follow-along transcript on Live in Italy Magazine, making it ideal for non-English speakers and readers who prefer to listen and read together.🎧 Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 📖 Read the full transcript on Live in Italy Magazine 💛 Support independent storytelling on Patreon
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  Italy’s Golden Visa, Italian Residency and Updates to Italian Citizenship by Descent with Marco Bersani, Immigration Attorney 18.01.2026 38min

  Navigating Italy’s visa and residency options can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re considering investment, relocation, or retirement abroad. In this episode of Italy Answered, we’re joined by Italian immigration lawyer Marco Bersani, who breaks down Italy’s legal pathways with clarity and approachability.This conversation goes beyond headlines to explain how Italy’s immigration system works in practice, and who each option is really designed for.In this episode, we cover:How Italy’s Golden Visa (Investor Visa) works and who qualifiesThe Elective Residence Visa and why it appeals to retirees and long-term residentsOptions for professionals and digital workers relocating to ItalyWhy Italy’s public healthcare system is a major factor for foreign residentsCommon misconceptions about residency, taxation, and long-term planningMarco’s insights are practical, transparent, and grounded in real client experience, making this episode especially valuable for anyone considering a move to Italy — whether for lifestyle, work, or family reasons.🔗 Read the full article on Live in Italy Magazine 🎧
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  Buying Property in Italy with YouTube’s Danilo Romolini 17.01.2026 32min

  If you’ve ever searched for luxury properties in Italy on YouTube, chances are you’ve come across breathtaking villas, castles, and countryside estates presented by Danilo Romolini of Romolini Immobiliare | Christie’s International Real Estate.In this episode of Italy Answered, we sit down with Danilo to talk about far more than real estate listings. Born and raised in Italy and immersed in his family’s business from a young age, Danilo shares how transparency, trust, and storytelling have shaped one of Italy’s most recognizable luxury real estate brands.Together, we explore:Why most buyers in Italy are motivated by lifestyle and legacy, not short-term investmentWhat makes regions like Tuscany, Umbria, Marche, and Emilia-Romagna so appealingHow historic villas, castles, and even vineyards function as lifestyle investmentsThe role of digital platforms like YouTube in building global trust with international buyersWhat foreign buyers should know about mortgages, pricing, and accessibility in ItalyWhether you’re dreaming of a future move, curious about buying property abroad, or simply want an inside look at Italy’s luxury real estate market, this conversation offers honest insight and long-term perspective.🔗 Read the full article on liveinitalymag.com/
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  Vine Stories: Chat with Sara Vezza, Owner & Winemaker at Josetta Saffirio 14.11.2025 33min

  Fifth-generation Barolo winemaker Sara Vezza of Josetta Saffirio joins Italy Answered from the rolling hills of Piemonte’s Langhe. In this episode, Sara shares her journey from hands-on learning in the vineyards to leading one of Italy’s most admired sustainable wineries.She opens up about family heritage, the challenges of being a woman in wine, and why sustainability at Josetta Saffirio is more than a goal—it’s a way of life. We also explore how changing tastes among younger generations are shaping the future of Italian wine, the art behind Barolo “1948,” and the powerful balance between motherhood and leadership. 🎧 Read the full article in Live in Italy Magazine’s 2nd Annual Wine Guide: https://liveinitalymag.com 💛 Support our storytelling: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  Italian American Heritage: Preserving Italian Craft 29.09.2025 34min

  Elizabeth Graceffo of My Italian Decor joins us from California to celebrate Italian American Heritage Month. A granddaughter of Sicilian immigrants, Elizabeth grew up surrounded by family, food, and traditions that shaped her identity.In this episode, she shares how gatherings around the table influenced her values, how years living in Florence deepened her connection to Italy, and how she turned her love of craftsmanship into a business bringing Murano glass, leather, ceramics, and more to the U.S.We also explore the challenges facing Venetian artisans today, why buying with love matters more than trends or price, and what’s next for My Italian Decor.🎧 Read the full article here: https://liveinitalymag.com 💛 Love what we do? Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  Moving to Italy with Children: Chat with Risa & Tanner of “Our Story to Tell” 25.07.2025 41min

  Risa and Tanner of the popular YouTube channel Our Story to Tell join us from Vicenza, Italy, to share their journey of raising two young daughters abroad. High school sweethearts turned global travelers, they’ve lived in Germany, Japan, and now Italy — navigating cultural transitions, language learning, and the realities of expat life as a family.In this episode, we explore what inspired them to leave the U.S., how their daughters are growing up bilingual (and even multilingual), and the challenges and rewards of moving abroad with children. Risa and Tanner also open up about their YouTube journey, balancing online storytelling with family privacy, and what’s next for their life in Veneto.🎧 Read the full article here: https://liveinitalymag.com💛 Love what we do? Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  Chat with Chef Mirko D’Agata: Canada’s Neapolitan Pizza Star 02.06.2025 47min

  Chef Mirko D’Agata joins us from Montreal to talk about his journey from Turin (Torino)—with Sicilian roots—to becoming one of the world’s top pizzaioli. In this episode, we explore his love of fermentation, the values behind true Neapolitan pizza, and how No. 900 became a culinary benchmark in Canada and beyond. This is Part 2 of Live in Italy Magazine’s “Finding the Canadian Dream” feature as part of Italian Heritage Month.Mirko shares his AVPN experience, why marinara pizza is a test of skill, and how he’s shaping the next generation of pizzaioli through education and tradition.🎧 Read the full article here: https://liveinitalymag.com 💛 Love what we do? Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  Chat with Chef Daniele Corona: Defining the Canadian Dream—Italian Style 01.06.2025 42min

  Chef Daniele Corona joins us from Toronto to share his journey from Naples to the heights of Canada’s culinary scene. In this episode, we explore how Daniele became the only Italian chef in Canada to earn Michelin stars at two different restaurants—most recently for his own DaNico.From early memories with his nonna to his commitment to sustainability, Daniele opens up about guest experience, culinary identity, and what it means to truly represent Italy abroad. This is Part 1 of Live in Italy Magazine’s “Finding the Canadian Dream” series for Italian Heritage Month.🎧 Read the full article here.💛 Love what we do? Support us on Patreon
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  Living Between Two Worlds: Chat with Author John Bersani 24.04.2025 46min

  Author John Bersani joins us from Tuscany to share his journey from upstate New York to the heart of Chianti. In this episode, John reflects on growing up Italian American, building friendships in Gaiole, and the inspiration behind his new cookbook-memoir 20 Amici, 40 Ricette.We explore what it means to live authentically between two cultures, the joys (and realities) of small-town Italian life, and how food becomes a powerful connector across generations and borders.🎧 Read the full article here.💛 Love what we do? Support us on Patreon.
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  Preserving Italy’s Craft Traditions: Chat with Michela Canzi Babini of The Place of Wonders 12.03.2025 39min

  Michela Canzi Babini, director of The Place of Wonders, is on a mission to preserve Italy’s artisanal heritage by supporting master craftsmen, providing scholarships to young artisans, and integrating authentic craftsmanship into mindful travel experiences.In this episode, Michela shares the challenges facing Italian artisans, from globalization to generational turnover, and why it’s crucial to support handmade traditions before they disappear. We also discuss how travelers can make a difference—whether by visiting artisan workshops, choosing handcrafted goods, or staying in hotels that support local craftsmanship.Join us for an inspiring conversation on cultural preservation, women in craftsmanship, and how The Place of Wonders is keeping Italy’s artistic soul alive.🔗 Read the full article here: [https://liveinitalymag.com/the-place-of-wonders-chat-with-michela-canzi-babini/]💛 Love what we do? Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  How to Buy a Home in Sicily: Chat with Lorrah & Lisa of The Amateurs Abroad 10.03.2025 56min

  Lorrah & Lisa of The Amateurs Abroad took a leap of faith, buying and renovating homes in Sicily while documenting their journey for thousands of followers. In this episode, they share the realities of purchasing property in Italy as a solo woman, the challenges of home renovations, and how they built a new life in a small Sicilian town.Join us as we discuss the highs, the surprises, and what it truly takes to embrace expat life in Italy.🎧 Read the full article here: https://liveinitalymag.com/buying-a-home-in-italy-as-a-solo-woman-chat-with-lorrah-lisa-of-the-amateurs-abroad/💛 Love what we do? Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  Expats in Italy: Marnee & Massimo on Love, Life & La Tavola 12.02.2025 59min

  Marnee & Massimo share their expat journey from Canada to Italy, their love story, and how food and culture shape their lives in Puglia. Join us as we discuss La Tavola, family, and what it truly means to embrace Italian life.Read the article here:https://liveinitalymag.com/a-love-story-across-borders-chat-with-marnee-and-massimo/Please consider becoming a Patreon subscriber:https://www.patreon.com/liveinitalymag
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  How to Buy a Home in Abruzzo: Insights from One Stop Abruzzo 18.01.2025 39min

  Are you dreaming of buying a home in Italy? This episode of Italy Answered explores the beautiful region of Abruzzo, known for its stunning landscapes, affordable properties, and authentic Italian charm. Join Lisa Morales, Editor-in-Chief of Live in Italy Magazine, as she interviews Rino from One Stop Abruzzo. Learn about buying, renovating, and settling into life in Abruzzo, whether you're looking for a fixer-upper, a move-in-ready home, or an investment property. Key topics include: Finding trusted real estate agents in Italy Price ranges for properties in Abruzzo Renovation tax incentives and tips Why Abruzzo is perfect for retirees and remote workers Tune in and get inspired to start your journey toward living the Italian dream. Read the article version of this interview here.