Could you imagine uncovering your roots halfway around the world? This episode brings you the heartfelt story of Santo Marabella, who was born in Aosta, Italy, and adopted by a loving family in America. Santo sheds light on his early life at the Instituto Asistenza Materna e Infantile and the touching way his adoptive parents, Anna and Sam Marabella, revealed his adoption to him. We also dive into the historical context of the “baby scoop” era, during which thousands of Italian babies found new homes in America, adding a layer of emotional and historical depth to Santo’s journey. Santo’s tale takes a dramatic turn with an unexpected reunion in Italy, a trip initially planned for a friend’s wedding that evolved into a life-changing quest to find his biological family. Listen as Santo recounts the emotional highs and lows of meeting his parents and siblings for the first time, saying bittersweet farewells, and the enduring promise of staying in touch. This chapter of Santo’s life is filled with heartwarming moments, language barriers, and the ongoing hope of reuniting with his younger sister after decades of separation. The journey doesn’t stop there. Santo opens up about the profound grief and healing process following the loss of his adoptive parents and a beloved pet. Volunteering at an animal shelter and reconnecting with his Italian family became pivotal in his healing journey. Explore themes of belonging, identity, and the importance of understanding one’s ancestry, as Santo uncovers fascinating connections to both American and Italian heritage. This episode celebrates the joy of discovering personal stories and the powerful bonds formed through family ties and adoption. Italian Roots and Genealogy is proud to share that Santo D. Marabella, adoptee born in Italy in 1961, is producing a first-person documentary about his adoption, called Il Mio Posto a Tavola (My Place at the Table).  His journey will build into a broader story about the universal need to belong and what can get in the way for each person, adoptees and non-adoptees alike, of finding your “place at the table.” Santo’s team, lead by Tracy Schott,filmmaker and social worker, are pleased to announce that they will be filming in Italy this September with members of Santo’s Italian family and his American “family” who are accompanying him on the trip! You can view the work-in-progress of the film here: https://vimeo.com/984296330/5027660402?share=copy For more information on the project and how you can support it, click:  IlMioPostoFilm.com  Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.  

When John Vallillo lost his mother in 2005, he had no idea it would ignite a passionate journey into uncovering his Italian roots. Join us as John takes us through the meticulous process of tracing his great-grandfather Giovanni Vallillo’s story, including the surprising discovery that Giovanni’s name was altered at a cemetery in Cleveland. John’s emotional connection to his heritage and thrilling moments of discovery—likened to the adventures of Indiana Jones—will captivate anyone intrigued by genealogy and family history. Our conversation with John also transports us to Italy, exploring the cultural richness of various regions and personal anecdotes from his repeated travels. John shines a light on the poignant story of Clotilde, an abandoned baby in the 1800s, and how DNA research can reveal long-lost relatives and intricate family histories. We delve into societal attitudes towards family history and economic disparities in Italy, showcasing the resilience of descendants who overcame past hardships. We further uncover the fascinating world of DNA analysis and its ability to transform our understanding of heritage. John shares compelling stories of his great-grandparents’ challenges, the early death of his great-grandfather from tuberculosis, and the subsequent remarriage of his great-grandmother. Through DNA discoveries, John has connected with long-lost relatives and even linked to notable figures like Fred Bungusto. This episode emphasizes the importance of cherishing family stories and how serendipitous moments can lead to meaningful discoveries, inspiring listeners to embark on their own genealogical adventures. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.  

Natalie Webb will teach us techniques with various AI providers to translate Italian records and more. Click here to join our group on Facebook Video For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.  

What happens when you mix age-old traditions with the passion of modern entrepreneurs? Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of Miriam Pugliese, co-owner of Nido di Seta, who left the bustle of Milan to breathe new life into Calabria’s ancient silk industry. Miriam, along with her partners Domenico and Giovanna, transformed a forgotten silk museum and mulberry orchard in San Floro into a thriving hub of traditional silk production, blending historical techniques with sustainable practices. Their mission is to show the world that Calabria is a land brimming with potential and opportunities. From the legacy of Domenico and Giovanna’s grandparents to the contemporary global fashion market, we explore the journey of bringing a centuries-old craft back to prominence. Discover the intricate process of silk production, from the life cycle of silkworms to weaving on ancient looms, and learn how you can experience this firsthand at their museum. This episode is a treasure trove of personal stories, regional beauty, and the untold history of Calabria’s once-thriving silk industry. Don’t miss the chance to support and engage with this remarkable revival by exploring Nido di Seta’s exquisite silk products. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.  

Unlock the secrets of Italian genealogy with our guest, John Ruscigno, whose passion for family history was sparked by the remarkable legacy of his 102-year-old grandfather. Faced with language barriers and misinformation, John shares his inspiring tale of perseverance, detailing how he turned to a research company and Ellis Island records for his breakthrough. Experience the thrilling moments of discovery at the Family History Center and learn how John transitioned from physical film to a comprehensive online database, making invaluable genealogical records accessible for everyone. Journey back in time to the early 1900s, as we recount the harrowing yet inspiring story of an Italian immigrant who settled in Portland, Oregon. From stealing food aboard the ship to facing harsh discrimination working for the railroad, this tale paints a vivid picture of the trials and triumphs of early 20th-century immigrants. Listen to the gripping narrative of strong family bonds, community connections, and an unyielding spirit that helped one family build a new life in America, despite facing numerous hardships and adversities. Finally, explore the heartwarming experiences of tracing distant family roots and the profound sense of connection that comes with visiting ancestral towns in Italy. John recounts his adventures in Sannicandro Di Bari, highlighting the serendipitous discoveries and the warm receptions from local relatives. Discover how his collaborative efforts to digitize and transcribe church records have enriched his genealogical research and how you can connect with him through the Bariancestors website. This episode is a trove of personal stories, invaluable insights, and a testament to the enduring strength of family heritage. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.