Categories: Podcast

Abruzzo to Astoria: A Personal History of Italian-American Migration

Picture yourself traversing the bustling streets of Astoria, Queens, where the air is thick with Italian dialects and the spirit of a robust, tight-knit Abruzzese community permeates every corner. Our guest today, Maria Fosco, raised amidst the lively Italian neighborhood, retraces the vibrant roots of her ancestry, offering a fascinating glimpse into the migration patterns of Italians and their profound imprint on Astoria.

Join us as we follow Maria’s engaging narrative, journeying all the way back to her great-grandmother’s house in Italy, purchased in the 1890s, and the subsequent chapters of her family’s history. Experience the profound saga of her family’s transition from Italian-speaking immigrants to English-speaking American citizens. Maria unveils an intriguing tale of reconnecting with long-lost cousins through ancestry and DNA, and offers insights into her visits to her family’s ancestral house in Italy.

Maria emphasizes the profound significance of knowing one’s roots and sharing those stories with the world. She has documented her family history in compelling chapters, and shares tales from her daily storytelling sessions with her late mother. From performing in a folkloric group in traditional costumes to tracing the path of the seasonal journey of sheep. Maria’s experiences have been rich and diverse. So, tag along for a ride through time and heritage as Maria paints a vivid picture of the Italian-American history and the importance of preserving our past.

Podcast

Video

Maria is a member of the board that is creating the new Italian-American Museum in NYC, to open in the spring of 2024. Here is our interview with Dr. Scelsa.

Podcast

The Reality of Getting Italian Citizenship While Living in Italy

Learn the practical steps for getting Italian citizenship while living in Italy and connecting with your family heritage. Navigating the process of obtaining Italian citizenship requires a deep understanding of both legal requirements and your own family history. This video breaks down how residency and ancestry intersect for those currently living in Italy. We look at the documentation needed to verify your claim and the practical reality of managing your application while abroad. Whether you

September 6, 2026 No Comments

Podcast

Academy of Italian Heritage and Travel

https://youtu.be/TPQYicyAx6I Join our virtual roundtable as we discuss Italian genealogy and the methods for connecting with your family history. This session features a collaborative discussion among researchers and genealogists focused on tracing lineage and documenting family heritage. For anyone navigating the complexities of Italian roots, this conversation offers practical insights into how different branches of a family tree can be reconstructed using historical records. We examine the collaborative approach to ancestry research, highlighting how shared

September 4, 2026 No Comments

Information

Daughters of Naples

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Italy, focusing on Mussolini’s rise to power, the impact of World War II on Naples, and the resilience of Italian families during wartime. Guest author Diana Giovanazzo shares insights from her latest historical fiction book, ‘Daughters of Naples,’ and discusses the importance of understanding Italy’s complex past. Key Topics Mussolini’s rise to power and fascist ideology The Four Days of Naples and Italian resistance Impact of

August 20, 2026 No Comments

Adventure

NIAF Trip to Italy

In this episode, Juliana shares her experience with the NIAF trip to Italy, exploring her Italian heritage, and the impact of her journey on her understanding of family history and culture. NIAF trip application process and experience Cities visited: Rome, Milan, Genoa, Lago de Garda, Cremona Family heritage from Napoli and Bari The impact of travel on understanding family history Italian food and regional specialties Researching Italian ancestry and DNA testing Click here to join

August 16, 2026 No Comments

Podcast

Hidden Roots: A Journey to Italy and Self-Discovery

In this episode, Christine McBurney shares her journey of discovering her Italian roots later in life, the impact of DNA testing on her identity, and her creative projects inspired by her heritage. A compelling story of self-discovery, family secrets, and cultural reconnection. Key Topics Discovering Italian heritage late in life The role of DNA testing in genealogy Family secrets and their impact on identity Travel to Italy and ancestral villages Creating a film based on

July 27, 2026 No Comments

Podcast

Discovering Italy: Roots, Traditions, and Cultural Revival

Viviana Altieri, founder of the Italian radio and Istituto Mondo Italiano, shares her journey from Italy to Pittsburgh, exploring Italian culture, traditions, and the importance of preserving heritage through food, language, and community initiatives. Viviana’s family origins in Foggia and Rome Her move from Italy to Pittsburgh in 1993 The rich diversity of Italian regions and traditions The role of food and festivals in cultural identity The founding and mission of Istituto Mondo Italiano The

July 25, 2026 No Comments