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In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Frank Ingrasciotta, the creator of 'Blood Type Ragu,' exploring themes of Italian heritage, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. Frank shares his family's journey from Sicily to America, the challenges they faced, and the cultural nuances that shaped his identity. The discussion delves into the importance of storytelling in preserving family history, the differences in food traditions, and the emotional impact of reconnecting with family in Sicily. Frank's experiences highlight the resilience of immigrant families and the rich tapestry of Italian-American culture.



 * Frank is the son of Sicilian immigrants from Mazzara del Vallo, Sicily.
 * His family came to America in 1949 after World War II.
 * Frank's father was born in America but returned to Sicily as a child.
 * His mother struggled with homesickness after moving to America.
 * Frank visited Sicily at the age of seven, gaining insight into his mother's life.
 * He reconnected with family in Sicily after years of separation.
 * Frank's one-man show, 'Blood Type Ragu,' explores his family stories.



ABOUT THE SHOW

Blood Type: RAGU [https://www.bloodtyperagu.com/] is a hilarious and heartfelt coming-of-age story. A one-man play exploring a first-generation immigrant child’s delicate dance between searching for identity, embracing Sicilian roots, and understanding forgiveness. Writer/Performer Frank Ingrasciotta gives a tour-de-force portrayal of over 20 characters who live, love, and laugh, in this fast-paced journey that is not just a comedy, not just a drama — It’s family — and we all have one! 

ABOUT FRANK

FRANK INGRASCIOTTA [https://www.frankactordirector.com/] (writer/performer) Acting: Original Off-Broadway production of Godspell, Valley of the Dolls, Three Postcards, What Would Nora Ephron Say?, Dinner at 8, Edgar Degas in The Girl in the Blue Armchair, and the Pharaoh in Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Lincoln Center. TV: Five years as Rene Buchanan’s head maître d’ on One Life to Live, other recurring roles on The Guiding Light, All My Children, ABC Afterschool Specials, and The Equalizer. Film: Featured roles in the award-winning SAG films Figs for Italo and Brooklyn in July directed by Bob Celli, presently touring the film festival circuit. 

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www.bloodtyperagu.com [http://www.bloodtyperagu.com/]

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

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Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles"

The Immigrant Experience: Stories from Sicily

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Pasquale Pacicca from visit Reggio Calabria [https://www.visitreggiocalabria.com/visitreggiocalabria-private-heritage-tours/], discussing the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights of the region. They explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism, the importance of genealogy, and the unique experiences Calabria offers compared to other Italian regions. Pasquale shares personal anecdotes and insights into the hospitality and genuine nature of Calabrian people, emphasizing the need for accurate information when researching family connections.

 * Calabria boasts an unspoiled coastline and rich landscapes.
 * The region is known for its genuine culinary traditions.
 * Hospitality in Calabria is deeply rooted in its history.
 * Calabria has significant Greek historical influences.
 * Post-pandemic tourism in Calabria faces unique challenges.
 * Genealogy research requires accurate information to be successful.
 * Many villages in Calabria are experiencing depopulation.
 * Calabrian cuisine is heavily influenced by local fish and agriculture.
 * Cultural heritage is a vital aspect of Calabria's identity.
 * Personal experiences shape the understanding of Calabria's true essence.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

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Farmers and Nobles [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/]
Read about my research story and how to begin your family research.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.



Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

The Rich Tapestry of Calabrian Culture

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Tess Martin, who shares her journey of exploring her Italian heritage and family history. Tess discusses her background, her family's migration from Italy to America, and the unique visa that allowed her to live in the Netherlands. She delves into her genealogical research, uncovering family secrets and connections that reveal the complexities of her ancestry. The conversation highlights the importance of historical context in understanding family migration and the personal stories that shape our identities. In this conversation, Tess and Bob Sorrentino delve into the intricacies of family history research, exploring the challenges and rewards of uncovering ancestral roots. They discuss the significance of cultural heritage, the complexities of women's stories in genealogy, and the impact of nobility on family narratives. The conversation also touches on the economic decline of small towns and the thrill of the genealogical hunt, emphasizing the importance of persistence in research.

Sound Bites

 * "You can Google the DAFT visa."
 * "We found a document that changed our search."
 * "The word mega in Genovese means medicinal."
 * "Just start Googling stuff. Stuff shows up."
 * "You have to come back in six months."
 * "I want to know how these people lived."
 * "It's fascinating to see what you see."
 * "They still hold on to it, yeah."
 * "It's a treasure hunt, you know."

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Italian Marketplace LLC [https://shop.spreadshirt.com/italian-marketplace]
Online tee shirts, hoodies and more for Italians

Farmers and Nobles [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/]
Read about my research story and how to begin your family research.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.



Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

Family Secrets: Discovering Hidden Histories Genoa to Philadelphia

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Dominic Arresta, a young Italian American who has recently embarked on a journey to uncover his family history. Dominic shares his experiences of discovering his roots, the challenges he faced, and the importance of preserving family stories and cultural heritage. He discusses the role of technology in genealogy, the significance of connecting with relatives in Italy, and the impact of his findings on his identity. The conversation highlights the excitement of exploring one's ancestry and the value of keeping traditions alive for future generations.



 * "I built a family tree and found a bunch of interesting documents."
 * "I found a bunch of newspaper articles."
 * "I wish I would have done it earlier."
 * "It's nice to still have some contact with them over there."
 * "I think we’re chosen in some way to do that."
 * "The resources are out there."
 * "It's so difficult to just read the old Italian cursive."

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Italian Marketplace LLC [https://shop.spreadshirt.com/italian-marketplace]
Online tee shirts, hoodies and more for Italians

Farmers and Nobles [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/]
Read about my research story and how to begin your family research.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.



Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

The New Generation of Italian Family Historians

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Paula Gambarota, an associate professor at Rutgers University, about her Italian roots, family history, and the impact of immigration on identity. They discuss the historical context of American Naples during WWII, and personal stories from that era. Paula shares her research on the occupation of Naples and her future projects, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and storytelling.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

What Really Happened in Naples During WWII?

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In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Mimma Scinardo from Taormina, Sicily, exploring the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of the region. Mimma shares insights on the best times to visit, the unique attractions of Taormina, and the significance of Sicilian identity. She also discusses her journey in running a bed and breakfast and her passion for helping visitors connect with their roots in Sicily.

 * Taormina is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage.
 * Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Sicily.
 * The ancient theater and public gardens are must-see attractions in Taormina.
 * Sicilian identity is strong, with locals identifying as Sicilian first.
 * Mimma runs a bed and breakfast, offering personalized experiences for guests.
 * Sicilian cuisine features unique dishes like arancini and almond wine.
 * Mimma's book provides a guide for American tourists visiting Sicily.
 * The local community is close-knit, celebrating important events together.
 * Mima teaches cooking classes, sharing traditional Sicilian recipes.
 * Direct flights from New York to Catania make travel to Sicily easier.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Discover and Love Sicily [https://amzn.to/3GE1CNO]
Discovering Sicily is a journey that goes beyond a simple visit.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.



Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

Exploring Taormina Sicily

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Charlie and Steve Bongiorno about their Italian roots and family history. They share stories of their ancestors' immigration to the United States, cultural traditions, language, and personal experiences in Stromboli. The discussion highlights the transformation of Stromboli from a primitive island to a celebrity destination, reflecting on the changes over generations. In this engaging conversation, the speakers share their experiences of living in Italy, exploring their cultural roots, and reflecting on family heritage. They discuss the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, the significance of family connections, and the fascinating stories that shape their identities. The dialogue highlights the importance of understanding one's ancestry and the impact of cultural immersion on personal growth.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

From Stromboli to America: A Journey of Heritage

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In this engaging conversation, jazz singer Vanessa Racci shares her journey of exploring her Italian heritage and how it intertwines with her passion for jazz music. From her family's roots in Puglia to her experiences growing up in New York, Vanessa reflects on the rich history of Italian Americans in jazz and the importance of preserving this cultural legacy. She discusses her musical projects that aim to revive Italian classics through jazz arrangements and highlights the significance of family traditions and food in shaping her identity. The conversation also touches on the broader context of Italian American culture and the unique experiences of Italian immigrants in the United States.

https://vanessaracci.com/

Sound Bites

 * "I had family from Puglia."
 * "I wanted to keep his memory alive."
 * "I wanted to reinvent the Italian classics."
 * "There’s such a rich history."
 * "I love it. I'm able to do what I love."
 * "I think it’s deeper than that."
 * "I think it’s magical."

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Italian Marketplace LLC [https://shop.spreadshirt.com/italian-marketplace]
Online tee shirts, hoodies and more for Italians

Jazzy Italian [https://amzn.to/4cDHasg]
Vanessa's vocals combine a tart, brassy sound with Italianate ardor, flair, and swing.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.



Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

Jazz and Italian Heritage: A Conversation with Vanessa Racci

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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino engages with Dr. Gilda Rorro and Dr. Mary Rorro, a mother-daughter duo, to explore their Italian heritage and the significance of family roots. They share personal stories of immigration, the importance of reconnecting with their Italian roots, and the generational differences in experiencing Italian identity. The discussion also highlights the role of food in Italian culture, the challenges of preserving heritage for future generations, and the contributions of Italians to American culture. The Rorros emphasize the need for education initiatives to promote Italian heritage and ensure that future generations appreciate their cultural background.

NJ Italian Heritage Commission [https://www.njitalianheritage.org]

Takeaways

 * The importance of reconnecting with one's roots.
 * Food serves as a vital connection to culture.
 * Generational differences shape the experience of Italian identity.
 * Preserving heritage is crucial for future generations.
 * Education initiatives are necessary to promote Italian culture.
 * Personal stories of immigration highlight resilience and struggle.
 * Cultural contributions of Italians are often overlooked.
 * Family gatherings around food foster community and love.
 * Experiences in Italy can be life-changing and enriching.
 * The warmth of Italian culture is a source of pride.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

Generational Perspectives on Being Italian-American

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The conversation explores the life and experiences of Rocco Scolamacchia, who grew up in Toritto, Italy, during the mid-20th century. It delves into his childhood memories, the impact of World War II on his family, the struggles of survival during difficult times, and the importance of family connections and genealogy. With his daughter Lisa the discussion highlights the cultural heritage and legacy that shapes their identities today. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into their family histories, cultural traditions, and the rich culinary heritage of their Italian roots. They share personal anecdotes about family gatherings, local customs like Baker's Night, and the challenges of tracing genealogy. The discussion also touches on the nuances of dialects in Italy, the significance of family names, and the importance of maintaining connections across generations. The speakers express pride in their heritage and the unique flavors of their hometown, highlighting the role of food in their cultural identity.

 * Rocco left Torito at the age of 24 in 1960.
 * Toritto had limited amenities during Rocco's childhood.
 * World War II brought significant challenges to families in Torito.
 * Rocco's father served as a guard for the King of Italy.
 * Rocco's family experienced the effects of bombings during the war.
 * Food scarcity led to black market activities during the war.
 * Wild chicory was a common food source during tough times.
 * Genealogy plays a crucial role in understanding family history.
 * Family connections are deeply rooted in shared experiences.
 * Heritage and legacy are important aspects of their identity. Family connections are deeply rooted in shared memories and traditions.
 * Baker's Night is a cherished cultural tradition that brings families together during Christmas.
 * Local delicacies, such as sausages, hold significant cultural value and are hard to find outside Italy.
 * Genealogy research can be challenging, especially when accessing church records.
 * Maintaining family ties across generations is essential for preserving cultural heritage.
 * Dialect differences in Italy can create barriers in communication, even among Italians.
 * Family names often carry deep significance and reflect personal histories.
 * Culinary experiences are a vital part of cultural identity and heritage.
 * The internet plays a crucial role in connecting families and preserving traditions.
 * Pride in one's heritage is expressed through language, food, and family stories.

Turnkey. The only thing you’ll lift are your spirits.

Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?u=30519446]

Purchase my book "Farmers and Nobles" here [https://www.italiangenealogy.blog/farmers-and-nobles/] or at Amazon [https://amzn.to/3EeYMez].

Exploring Toritto Bari: A Journey Through Time

This podcast is dedicated to Italian Genealogy, finding your Italian Roots and how to navigate through Italian records. Your host has over 12 years of experience and we will have excellent guests that will discuss a variety of genealogy topics. Please subscribe!

Italian Roots and Genealogy