Little Italy Podcast & Little Italy of LA Podcast

Episodet

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  Diana Giovinazzo, The Story of Three Sisters from 1940s Naples 22.07.2026 19min

  Please welcome Diana Giovinazzo, author, "Daughters of Naples," whose newly-released historical fiction is inspired by the real-life Italian women who risked everything to fight for their homeland against Fascist domination and Nazism. It's a fascinating read, one I could not put down! The story centers around three Cozzolino sisters who navigate changing wartime dynamics that threaten to tear their family apart. Set in 1940s Naples under Mussolini's regime, it's got all the elements of survival, sisterhood, romance, and shifting loyalties during the time of Italian resistance, a complicated time in the history of Italia. We will speak with Diana about the historical significance behind this book, and the research that went behind it. A self-proclaimed "history nerd," Diana enjoys writing about historical fiction based in Italy, and has achieved high acclaim for her previous novels. She is also the creator of the Wine, Women, and Words Podcast, a weekly show featuring interviews with authors over a glass of wine! Love this! Please find my full interview with Diana on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Andrew Cotto, The History of Little Italy in NYC 15.07.2026 33min

  Award-winning author and co-founder/editor-in-chief of Appetito Magazine, #AndrewCotto, joins us to discuss the deep-rooted history of Italians and Italian Americans in New York through hard-work, grit, culture and their culinary expertise, literally taking over the food scene from the moment the Italians landed on our shores. When it was discovered that #LittleItaly was no longer included on the map of immigrant communities in NYC, Italians stood up and fought back for their ancestors to be recognized for their contributions to making NY and America prosperous. Andrew has written extensively for the New York Times, Appetito, Condé Nast Traveler, Italy magazine, and others, and has extensive knowledge of Italians in NY, and he joins us today to talk about that and the strong sense of pride Italian Americans continue to fight for, including the history Italians want to make sure is not forgotten. Please join us on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's an honor to have you with us.
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  Johnny Anello, Italian American Radio Founder & Musician 15.07.2026 27min

  Please welcome infamous mandolin player #JohnnyAnello, also the founder of Italian American Radio, who joins us to talk about the history of Italians who came to this country through Ellis Island, settled primarily in #LittleItaly on the lower east side of Manhattan, and became the heart and soul of New York, building bridges, digging subway tracks and tunnels and anything else that needed to be done to help make the City of New York great. Johnny has had a decorated career as a musician, performing LIVE throughout NY and the entire tri-state area, but particularly in Little Italy, New York. In fact, he will be opening this year for the 100th anniversary of the San Gennaro Festival in NY, a terrific honor. Needless to say, Johnny knows much about current life in New York's Little Italy, in addition to its rich history. And since the recent uproar over Little Italy not being included in the map of immigrant communities in NYC, he's got a lot to say about it. Johnny also founded Italian American Radio, and we'll be talking about that, too. He's a terrific preservationist of all things Italian, and I'm honored to speak with him today. Please find my full discussion with Johnny "Mandolin" Anello on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Mike Crispi, President, The Italian American Civil Right League 15.07.2026 25min

  Mike Crispi, president of The Italian American Civil Rights League, joins us to discuss the recent uproar over the Little Italy New York enclave being removed from the City's list of immigrant neighborhoods. Italians took notice and fought back. In fact, Crispi's resume reads as a man who has been fighting for justice much of his life as a political activist, frequent commentator, and talk show host. And this topic made the top of his list. Cristi points out that much of New York - from the skyscrapers to underground tunnels, was built on the backs of Italian immigrant laborers, many of them settling into the lower east side of Manhattan, commonly referred to as #LittleItaly, so he joins us today to talk about the history of the people there and how it matters today. It's a lesson in history that many might not know, and one that should not be forgotten. Please join us today on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Idanna Pucci, Co-Author, "Emilio Pucci" 10.06.2026 57min

  Idanna Pucci's latest book, "Emilio Pucci: The Astonishing Odyssey of a Fashion Icon," is a biography co-authored by the niece of the famed designer along with her husband, Terence Ward. The narrative moves beyond Emilio Pucci's vibrant prints to uncover his harrowing experience during World War II and his role in postwar Italian reconstruction. Carefully detailed and researched by Idanna Pucci and her husband, this is an inside look at an extraordinary story of bravery long before anyone knew #EmilioPucci as the fashion artist he became. The authors recount Pucci's capture, imprisonment, and torture by Nazis following a secret mission to assist the opposition, and they explore his transition from war hero to fashion icon, with details about his shop on the island of Capri. It's a captivating read, in part because it comes first-hand from family members, most notably Idanna, who grew up in the Pucci palace in Florence and later worked for her uncle at his Saks Fifth Avenue boutique in New York. The biography draws from intimate family sources, including personal diaries and declassified war records. Please join me in welcoming #IdannaPucci on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast and the #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Linda Stasi, Author, "The Descendant" 27.05.2026 43min

  Linda Stasi is synonymous with NY media royalty. She's a well known critic and columnist for the NY Post. She is also a familiar face on the NY1 News Channel, and has appeared on the Today Show, The View, CBS Morning Show, among others. And we're thrilled to have her join us to talk about her latest book The Descendant: a historical family saga based on her own Sicilian-American ancestors, following the Barbera family from Sicily to the Colorado mines and eventually to the Mafia in Brooklyn. The story blends real history with folklore, and focuses on the resilience of the family, particularly strong women, as they navigate poverty, violence, and the American dream. Let's just say it's got all the right elements of adventure, crime, and magical realism. I see a film here. Throughout our interview, we will also discuss Staci's Italian roots and the strong bond we all share as Italians and Italian Americans. There's something about Traci that I totally relate to, perhaps it's the journalist in me or the Italian family bonds. Whatever it is, she's got some incredible stories to share, and I'm thrilled to bring them to you. Please find our full interview on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  James Conlon, ONE OF LA OPERA'S FINEST CONDUCTORS 27.05.2026 46min

  James Conlon is known as one of the most versatile and respected conductors of a generation, and throughout his career, has cultivated a vast symphonic, operatic, and choral repertoire. Today, we are honored to welcome him to our show. Since his 1974 debut with the NY Philharmonic, he has conducted virtually every major American and European symphony orchestra with precision. Needless to say, Mr. Conlon is one of classical music's most recognized interpreters. We will be speaking with him about his early days in music and conducting, his influences, and how he earned a spot as one of the premiere influences in this genre. His finale with the LA Opera with Falstaff was simply jaw-dropping, an event that will be hard to replicate for even the most seasoned and decorated conductors. Mr. Conlon makes it look effortless, which is part of his magic, because his work and career are nothing short of extraordinary. Please find our full interview with Mr. Conlon on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Spencer Pratt, LA Mayoral Candidate & Former Reality TV Star 21.05.2026 32min

  LA Mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt means business. He's pissed and wants to turn the city he grew up in to a city that functions without debilitating crime, drugs, homelessness, in addition to helping thousands of Angelenos cut through red tape so they can rebuild after losing their homes in the LA fires of 2025. It's a tall order, and he says he's fired up and wants the job. And he's working the streets every day to earn the trust of voters to be their next mayor. Spencer, a USC grad, is passionate, well-spoken, and killed it in the recent LA Mayoral debates against incumbent Mayor Bass and Councilwoman Nithya Raman. He claims their progressive policies have turned Los Angeles into a walking criminal and drug addicted city that was once the envy of the country, a place where kids could play outside, walk to the local ice cream store and feel safe. No more, and I can attest to that. Today, he joins us to tell us his plan and vision to turn LA around. For anyone who claims a former reality TV star can't do the job, I welcome you to listen to our interview. Spencer is a father, husband, son, and he loves his city. He's a college grad who is outspoken and has sensible and practice ideas on how to get this city back on track. And for anyone who wants the same old politics, I hope you'll listen to our interview and hear what Spencer has to say. He just might be what LA needs, because we certainly don't need more of the same. Please join my full interview with Spencer on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Stephen Pishner, Italian American Member & Performer 13.05.2026 32min

  California and Los Angeles are at a crossroads, and it's up to each of us to determine the future of both our state and beloved city. Please welcome #JohnKobylt, host of the award-winning #JohnKobyltShow on #iheart radio and #kfiam640 powerhouse station, who joins us to talk about the gubernatorial and mayoral races here. Last week, candidates duked it out during scheduled debates, and everyone seems to have their take on the winners. But there's one thing clear - our state and city are in trouble, and we need change. Fast. Crime, homelessness and drug addition is up, along with gas and housing prices. What's down? Jobs in the entertainment industry, and all the jobs created around it from food service to props. We're in trouble. Much the same way the auto industry left Detroit, same with Hollywood. And once it closes, it's hard to bring it back. But there's hope, and we'll talk about that. Please join me LIVE on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Monica Guerritore, Actor, "Anna" 01.04.2026 53min

  Please welcome acclaimed actress Monica Guerritore to our show, who joins us to talk about her magnificent film, "Anna - The Untold Story" - about the life of legendary actress Anna Magnini, specifically set on the night of 1956 when Anna won the Academy Award for Best Actress for "The Rose Tattoo." She was the first Italian actress to win an Oscar. The film portrays Anna as a woman of immense strength and passion, navigating her private struggles and memories while wandering the streets of Rome. Monica wrote, directed, and also stars in the film, offering a rich portrayal of Anna the person as opposed to the cinema icon. It's an incredible story, told from the heart, and so beautifully acted by Monica, I was left speechless. I wanted to understand Monica's process in capturing the story of Anna, as well as her keen interest. The film, which debuted in Los Angeles for International Women's Day, also stars Tommaso Ragno, Beatrice Granno, and Lucia Mascino. I love a story about strong women, particularly Italian women. Today, I not only interview one - Monica - we talk about one as well - Anna. Please join me on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here. Please share with your friends and family as well.
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  Mike Marino, Actor, Comedian, Podcast Host 01.04.2026 46min

  Please welcome one of the funniest guys in comedy today, Mike Marino, who hails from New Jersey, next to the town where I was born. Mike manages to turn circumstances from everyday life as a proud Italian-American into something we can all relate to - funny, relatable, ridiculous. He went on a campaign to "Make America Italian Again" which attracted a cult following. He hosts the popular podcast, "Live From My Mother's Basement," which is literally recorded in the basement of the home where he grew up. In fact, with the recent death of his parents, he bought the house, and starts each morning taking us on a LIVE walk around the neighborhood, sharing his thoughts of the day. And these days, there's a lot to share. While performing on a cruise ship last year, he became ill. Doctors found a tumor in his brain which they removed. Now he's on another campaign - to get healthy with the help of his beautiful fiancée, Heather. He's currently also working on a new TV special with the working title, "Mike Marino: Back 2 School," and he's back performing LIVE this week, so check his social for deets. Mike has performed at the Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, Carnegie Hall, and he's entertained veterans for which he earned the USO Bob Hope Comedy Award. He's also a successful actor, having appeared on Frazier and so many other shows and commercials. He's got a lot to share, not only about comedy, but about loss, family, being Italian, and his recent health scare that literally knocked him off his feet. Please find my full conversation with #MikeMarino on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here. And congrats, Mike, for being inducted into the N.J. Comedy Hall of Fame. @mikemarinolive #comedy #mikemarino #standup
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  Suzanne Cope, for promo Italian Women Warriors 18.03.2026 42min

  Today, I present an extraordinary true story for Women's History Month, written by Suzanne Cope, "Women Of War: The Italian Assassins, Spies, and Couriers Who Fought the Nazis." This is the untold story of the women who risked their lives to secretly pass messages, ammunition, and other secrets to help fight the Nazis who were occupying Italy in the 1940's. The book focuses on four women - in their early 20s - who would do their work on bicycle and on foot, carrying messages in a loaf of bread or hiding munitions in their overcoats, and risking their lives to do it. This is a hidden chapter of Italian history — women of the Resistance who fought Fascism and Nazi occupation while living their everyday lives. And what they did mattered, as told by author and journalist Suzanne Cope, who conducted meticulous research for this book. The women highlighted here carried notes, transported weapons, organized strikes, and committed acts of extraordinary bravery, yet their stories had been overlooked for decades. Until now. In fact, these stories are perhaps more significant as women face challenges around the world to stand up for their rights and freedom. Please find my full conversation with Suzanne Cope on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I thank you for joining us. @suzannecope_phd #WomenOfWar #ItalianResistance #WomenInWWII #ItalianWomen #FeministHistory
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  Bruno Serato, Celebrity Chef 10.12.2025 31min

  Bruno Serato, owner of the Anaheim White House Restaurant and founder of Caterina's Club, feeds literally thousands of children and families every day, and he's raising money so his Caterina's foundation can continue feeding literally thousands every day who would otherwise go hungry. And he joins us today to talk about it. Just last week, SoCal powerhouse radio station #KFIam640 (where my husband hosts the #JohnKobyltShow), teamed up with Bruno, Smart & Final, Wendy's, and De Cecco pasta to raise money and bunches of pasta and sauce so Bruno could continue doing what he does best - feeding hungry people. And the mission has been affectionately called #Pastathon. Already, they've raised close to $1-million dollars, and the campaign is still going, and he'll talk about how you can help. Now that's A LOT of Pasta! Bruno has become a friend over the years, and many of us call him a saint. His generosity was inspired by his mom, Caterina, who gave him the inspiration to feed hungry children in nearby Anaheim. He took the challenge, and so many years later, he's been recognized by Time Magazine, CNN Heros, the Pope, and others around the globe. We will talk with Bruno about his humble beginnings before moving to the United States, where his restaurant quickly became a fixture in Southern California. But he's faced plenty of tough times, too, like when his restaurant burned to the ground a few years ago, and his first thought was, "how will I feed the children." He rebuilt, and came back stronger than ever. Please join me in welcoming Bruno Serato on all audio and video platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and our #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I thank you for joining me. Hashtags / Mentions @serato7 @caterinas_club #powerofpasta #sirbrunoserato #fightpoverty #fighthunger #kidsinneed #familyinneed #orangecounty #california #losangeles
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  Alexia Melocchi, Global Producer, Author, "The Art of Show Biz" & Producer, Little Studio Films 10.12.2025 31min

  There's a lot of talk about the changes in Hollywood, a city that has been at the center of moviemaking and TV production for nearly a century. So we invited producer and writer Alexia Melocchi, who co-authored the book, "The Heart of Show Business," to talk about what's really happening in this city of dreams. Alexia will discuss in detail a road map to navigating how work is getting done in this new era. "The Heart of Show Business" speaks with industry professionals from writers, directors, actors, athletes, and more, discussing how to stay ahead and win at every level. Each chapter offers career insights and professional advice from with a variety of successful individuals, including Blair Underwood, Keith Mitchell, Rev. Michael Beckwith, Jean-Michel Cousteau and many others. I found it deeply interesting to dive into the mindset of industry pros, a terrific tool for any profession. But in the ever-changing entertainment industry, it's critical to stay one step ahead. Whether it's Ai, digital, the business of acting, where the industry is headed, or how to learn the ABC's of filmmaking, Alexia offers an interesting perspective on what's next. Please find my full interview with Alexia on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Simon Poole, MD & Amy Riolo, Authors, Managing Cholesterol for Dummies 10.12.2025 35min

  Got high cholesterol? There's ways to manage it, and I'll be speaking with nutrition expert Amy Riolo & Dr. Simon Poole about their latest book, "Managing Cholesterol for Dummies." This is a comprehensive look into how we can manage cholesterol, inflammation, and oxidation levels in our bodies, in addition to addressing who might be at cardiovascular risk and how to safely manage it. The duo will show us easy lifestyle changes and healthy recipes to incorporate into our every day lives. We will also discuss how to understand "good" and "bad" cholesterol, because a lot has changed in recent years. Also, we could be at risk for cardiovascular disease and not even know it, and we will discuss those early warning signs. In addition, Amy and Simon will guide to us on what to ask our doctors, because let's face it, we often go to the doctor's office and leave with our questions unanswered. As for medicines, they will discuss treatment options, medicines, and holistic approaches to cholesterol management. So there's a lot to go over. Amy Riolo and Dr. Simon Poole have written a variety of "Dummies" books guiding us to better health and nutrition. I'm honored to welcome them back to our show to discuss managing cholesterol, something we eventually all need. Please find my full conversation with Amy Riolo and Dr. Simon Poole on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here. @assriolo @drsimonpoole #cholesterol #managngcholesterol #cholesterolfordummies #authors #chef #foodrevolution
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  Claudio Santini, World-Renowned Artist & Photographer 03.12.2025 37min

  Please welcome to our show internationally-acclaimed photographer, artist, and author Claudio Santini, whose thought-provoking work has inspired much reflection. When I visited Claudio in his Los Angeles studio recently, I felt I was in the presence of a true genius. His work spoke to me, including his latest collection, focused on capturing a quiet mental state to inspire a better humanity. Today, we'll speak to Claudio about his life and work, including an exhibit in Naples, Italy, currently running through December. Claudio was born and raised in Rome, Italy, and developed an early passion for photography. He started his career as an architectural photographer, later exploring the intersection of photography and painting through mixed media. Upon moving to Los Angeles, his work was featured in the New York Times, LA Times, and Domus. You've likely seen his work featured in major magazines, too. And in a world focused on Ai, I wanted to showcase the work of someone inspired by everyday events, people, and nature. Claudio captures the humanity of life just that way, pure and innocent, with texture. Please enjoy my full conversation with Claudio Santini on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and the #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Pasquale Esposito, Acclaimed Tenor & Carlo Ponti, Famed Conductor, & LA Virtuosi Orchestra 03.12.2025 37min

  When famed tenor and songwriter Pasquale Esposito was growing up in Naples, Italy, the music of Enrico Caruso would play throughout his house, inspiring him to sing at the local church in town. His dream was to come to America, to study and eventually perform. And that's exactly what he did. Fast forward twenty-five years, and Pasquale is now performing internationally to critical acclaim, and on Dec. 10, he'll perform along side world-renowned conductor Maestro Carlo Ponti on the Broad Stage in Santa Monica, California, presenting a magical Holiday concert of American and Italian traditions through spirited carols and emotional Neapolitan melodies. And I'm honored to speak with both gentlemen today on my show. I've known Carlo for some time now, and not only am I a huge fan of his work, but I admire his incredible talent and creative style. I'm also honored to call him a friend. Most people know he's the eldest son of the beautiful and talented Ms. Sophia Loren and filmmaker Carlo Ponti, and one can only imagine life growing up among such talent. But not only did Carlo inherit his parents gift of performance, he's lived his life in service of the arts, having founded the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra, which raises awareness and funds for music education in the Los Angeles area. He shares his gift of philanthropy with Pasquale, who founded Notable Music and Arts, a non-profit focused on promoting cultural exchange through music, dance, theater, film, visual arts, and literature. We'll talk with both of them about this, in addition to their work, life, and upcoming performance at the Broad on 12/10. Please find my full conversation with Maestro Carlo Ponti and Tenor Pasquale Esposito on all video and audio podcast platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and the #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here. @pasqualetenor @maestrocarloponti @lavirtuosiorchestra #LAV #concert #classicalmusic #orchestra #losangeles
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  James Tumminia, Actor. Producer 29.10.2025 40min

  Please welcome to our show James Tumminia, award-winning actor, producer, and lover of all things Italian, beloved for his role as Angelo in the TV series, "Melissa & Joey" and much more. And we'll be talking with James about his work and how he gets his fix of Italian food and culture in this great city of LA. As a kid growing up in an Italian-American neighborhood in Brooklyn, James Tumminia knew two things: he loved all things Italian, and he wanted to be an actor. And he's living both. I first met James at an event at the Italian Cultural Institute in Los Angeles, and noticed he seemed to be at every Italian gathering throughout the city - and there's many. So I thought it appropriate to invite him to talk about all things Italian, in addition to his life and career, as part of Italian-American Heritage Month. James studied Italian at Georgetown, which led him to living, studying, and working in Florence. He played Mario in "Two Scoops of Italy" a Hallmark film, and has been involved on the producer side of many projects, including, "Love, Guilda," "1st Strike," and many more. James said he feels the guidance of his ancestral grandparents, all four born in Italy, and he became an Italian citizen in 2009. He's currently working on a project he's super excited about, "PER CHI," a short doc he's producing. We'll be talking about that. And while James hails from NY and moved to LA to pursue a career in entertainment, he says Italy always feels like home, which is why he frequents so many Italian events in this great city. Please welcome #JamesTumminia on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you here.
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  Gregg Schwenk, Creator, Newport Beach Film Festival 01.10.2025 22min

  We're so excited about this year's Newport Beach Film Festival from October 16-23, featuring over 100 film and 250 shorts from 32 countries. The festival opens with a screening of Richard Linklater's "Blue Moon" starring Ethan Hawke, Margaret Qualley, Bobby Canavalle and Andrew Scott. The closing night film will include a screening of Guillermo Del Toro's "Frankenstein," starring Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, Oscar Isaac & Christoph Waltz. And for the International Film category, the Italian film, "When Mom Is Away...With The In-Laws" is already said to be a show stopper. We will be speaking with the creator of the NBFF, Gregg Schwenk, who joins us to talk about what's become one of the industry's most exciting festivals, including some of the special events over the week-long event. Make sure to go on the website for details, but Gregg will give us an inside peek during our interview. Please join us on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it's my pleasure to welcome you. @newportbeachfilmfest @nbffitalianspotlight #newportbeachfilmfestival #nbff #nbffitalianspotlight #nbff2025 #italiancuisine
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  Maura Fanti, PhD, Research Assoc. Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at USC 01.10.2025 26min

  Want to live longer? It's all about our food. In fact, "we are what we eat" isn't just a phrase about weight. Maura Fanti, researcher at USC's longevity institute, has been connecting the benefits of calculated fasting and metabolism, inflammation, and a healthier life, and she says to live longer, we need to give our digestive system a break. Please welcome Maura to our show, who joins us to discuss how fasting doesn't just help shed pounds, it can increase our life span, too. She talks about the benefits to our liver, which we know filters out toxins in our systems, and she wants people to be educated to make healthy decisions because our lives literally depend on it. Maura is from Italy and studied at the University of Calgary before joining USC, and she points to how the American diet is so radically different from the Italian diet, and how incorporating proper fasting with certain foods can drastically reduce inflammation, which we all know is the culprit to declining health and weight gain. And we don't have to fast all day. Maura gives us practical tips on the best way to achieve a healthy fast without feeling famished. I met Maura at an event sponsored by @ItalyInLA and @IICLosAngeles, and we spent some time discussing how to get people to make healthy, which is often difficult, but perhaps approaching from a clinical perspective might be more beneficial. We'll talk about that, in addition to her early work in Italy, eventually leading her to Los Angeles. And she's one of our featured guests as part of Italian Heritage Month. Please welcome Maura Fanti to our #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, & #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I'm your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I thank you for joining us. @maurafanti #food #italianheritage