Americans Anonymous

Welcome to AA—no, not that one. We’re your hosts, Alex and Amy, and we’ve traded the stars and stripes for pasta and Vespas as we navigate the hilarious complexities of living between two worlds. We’re here to share our unfiltered experiences, mishaps, and observations about the cultural chasms (and bridges) between the US and Italy. With us, you’ll see the world through a dual lens, celebrating the quirks, questioning the norms, and discovering that, at the end of the day, we're all just humans trying to figure out how to use a bidet properly. Join in (anonymously) for the ride!

#24 Game Show 2: Would You Rather

Would you rather swim in the Tiber or the Hudson? Watch Americans make cacio e pepe or Italians make chicken and waffles? I'm here asking the hard questions to co-host A, getting down to the nitty gritty of it all. Play along with us! Post your answers in the comment section, or write to us either via the anonymous form on americansanonymouspodcast.com or email aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com. Ciao for now!

11-12
26:04

#23 Ciao Ciao Ciao Ciao Ciao Ciao Ciao

How many times do you have to say "ciao" to really say goodbye? Probably the same amount of licks it takes to get to the center of a tootsie pop. But who's counting anyway? On this episode of our weekly AA meeting, we're diving into the deep end of Italian farewells. Have your own story about saying goodbye or fumbling your way out of a conversation? Let us know in the comments below, by filling out our anonymous form on americansanonymouspodcast.com, or by writing to us directly at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com.

10-28
07:31

#22 Blue Bubbles or Bust

A question we get A LOT is whether or not you should download WhatsApp when traveling to Europe. The short answer is yes. Find out why WhatsApp is such a big thing outside of the US and why you need it. If you've got your own stories about the differences in how people communicate while traveling or moving, let us know in the comments or anonymously by filling out the form at americansanonymouspodcast.com or emailing us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com.

10-22
14:36

#21 Stromboli, But NOT Like the Food

Sad to say, Stromboli (the food) does not come from Stromboli (the island). But you know what does? Lava! And apparently jellyfish with a taste for genitalia. Find out what's erupting down below AND how to party it up American style with a full-on game night. Have your own tale of volcanic eruptions, treacherous treks, and boozy game nights? Let us know anonymously by writing to use here: aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com. Like, subscribe, review us and leave us a comment to let us know how we're doing!

10-17
54:49

#20 No Place Like Home

What does "home" mean to you? Join us this week as we unpack our emotional baggage and dive into the concept of "home." Is it where you hang your hat, or where you left your heart? Maybe it's wherever you can get decent Wi-Fi and a good cup of coffee. Whether you're a nomad, a homebody, or somewhere in between, this episode will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about home. Warning: May cause sudden urges to redecorate or book a one-way ticket to Timbuktu. Have you own story about home? Share it with us anonymously at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com!

10-07
28:48

#19 American or Italian, GO!

Today on AA, we're serving up a heaping portion of cultural confusion! Join us as we get into the tangled histories of American and Italian creations. From obscure laws to prepackaged foods and other goodies, witness this challenge to guess the true origins of each item. Will you be able to tell your pepperoni from your Prada? Along the way, we'll dish out bite-sized historical tidbits that'll make you the star of your next dinner party. And if you have any interesting facts you'd like to share anonymously, let us know in the comments or by emailing us directly at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

08-02
22:46

#18 What It Takes to Hop the Pond

Ready to make the leap across the Atlantic and embark on an international adventure? In this episode, we dive into the essential ingredients for successfully relocating abroad. First up: a healthy dose of naivete. After all, ignorance is bliss when you're blissfully unaware of all the challenges ahead! Next, sharpen your skills at sussing out your surroundings. Learn to navigate foreign supermarket aisles, decipher mysterious street signs, and blend in with the locals - even if that means wearing socks with sandals. Of course, it helps to already know how to adult before making the move. If you've mastered basics like doing laundry, cooking meals, and remembering to file taxes, you're halfway there. And for the stuff you haven't figured out yet, just wing it with confidence! Finally, embrace the risk and take the plunge! Moving abroad is a bold endeavor that requires equal parts courage and a carefree attitude. So pack your bags, bid farewell to familiarity, and get ready for an unforgettable journey across the pond. Bon voyage! What was your biggest leap? Let us know in the comments or by emailing us anonymously at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

07-26
13:20

#17 When in Roam

The Eternal City is brimming with character, and each neighborhood sports its own. Join us as we explore the most charming, vibrant, and delizioso neighborhoods in Rome—but really, it's just our favorites.

07-19
14:27

#16 Cheap Flights, Priceless Frights

Remember the thrill of hopping on a budget airline, not knowing what adventures (or misadventures) await? Well, buckle up because we're about to take off on a wild ride through the world of European budget travel! In this episode, we're sharing our thoughts on navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of low-cost carriers and revealing the unwritten rules of plane etiquette. From the battle for armrest supremacy to the great clap-back upon landing, we'll cover it all with a generous dose of humor. Want to anonymously share your budget airline horror stories or your ingenious hacks for surviving a cramped economy flight? Write to us! aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

07-15
22:35

#15 Sun, Sand, and Spritz

Dive in with us into the refreshing world of Italian beach culture. In this episode, we're trading in our espresso for Aperol spritzes and swapping sneakers for sandals as we explore the best beaches around. From crystal clear waters and rocky shores to sandy dunes and open seas, we're taking you on the grand tour. Discover how Italians have perfected the art of living la dolce vita by the sea, with their love for good food, great company, and soaking up the sun in style. We'll share insider tips on how to enjoy the beach like a true Italian, from renting a sunbed at a beach club to indulging in a long, leisurely lunch with your toes in the sand. Plus, we'll let you in on some of Italy's best-kept coastal secrets, so you can escape the crowds and find your own slice of paradise. So grab your sunscreen and put on your favorite pair of shades. Have any beach stories of your own? Send it to us anonymously at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

06-28
25:36

#14 Pardon My Italian

We're diving headfirst into the spicy world of Italian profanity, exploring just how these blasphemes make the Italian language so damn colorful. Join us! Together, we'll go through the naughty nooks and crannies of Italian vernacular. You'll learn creative cuss words to spice up your vocabulary. So grab a seat, pour yourself a glass of vino, and get ready to laugh and learn from the delightfully vulgar underbelly of the bella lingua. Parental advisory: explicit hand gestures included. 🤌 Have your own story about cursing? Write to us! Everything you send remains anonymous. aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

06-21
32:02

#13 Midnight Mishaps in the Metropolis

Join us for a wild ride through the city that always sleeps. In this episode, we ditch the early bird special and embrace our inner night owls. Hop aboard the dinner tram as we chug through across the ancient streets, dining on gourmet cuisine in areas both familiar and strange. But the fun doesn't stop there! We'll take you on a moonlit tour of museums and galleries that come alive after hours, where the art is a little edgier and...stranger. So, grab your favorite beverage—we recommend Franciacorta this time—and join us for an unforgettable late-night escapade! Who needs sleep when there's so much fun to be had? Have a late-night tourist story of your own? Share it with us! Write to us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com and we may feature it anonymously in a future episode. Ciao!

06-08
34:24

#12 The Godfather's Guide to Amore

Are you ready to unravel the mysteries of amore? In this spicy episode, we're diving headfirst into the passionate world of Italian dating and comparing it to the wild west of American courtship. Join us as we dish on the delightful differences between these two romantic cultures. I'll also spill the tea on how I met my own Italian stallion and trust me, it's a story filled with charm, confusion, and pizza—the Italian trifecta! So, grab a glass of vino, sit back, and get ready to laugh, cringe, and swoon as we explore the ups, downs, and everything in between of Italian-American love. Andiamo! If you liked this episode (or hated it) and want to give us feedback, OR if you've got your own story to share, write to us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com. All messages remain completely anonymous.

05-31
01:05:15

#11 Heat-beating, A's first day-time scoot, and whatever a Jubilee is

How do you avoid melting into a puddle of sweat during an Italian summer heatwave? Apparently by hopping on a scooter and zipping around town—for free (at least for us)! In this episode, we share our adventures attempting to stay cool while navigating the scorching streets of Italy. From learning what the heck a Jubilee is (and planning to avoid it like the plague) to mastering the art of the stand-up scooter in the midst of Roman traffic, join us as we reveal our (somewhat clumsy) efforts to embrace the Italian summer lifestyle. Helmets optional, but highly recommended! Want to (anonymously) share your own tales of battling the heat in a foreign land or have some tips for surviving an Italian summer? Don't be shy, we want to hear it all! Shoot us an email at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com and let's swap stories.

05-24
28:29

#10 Italy 101: The Dos and Don'ts of Your First Trip

Ciao, Italia! In this episode, we're diving into the excitement and challenges of taking your first trip to the beautiful country of Italy. From navigating the winding streets of Rome to indulging in the mouthwatering cuisine, we'll share our top tips for making the most of your Italian adventure. But it's not all gelato and gondola rides! We'll also hit on the common pitfalls and tourist traps. We're all about safety here at AA. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time flyer, this episode is packed with practical advice and hilarious (i.e. embarrassing) anecdotes that will have you saying 'grazie mille'. So sit back, pour yourself a glass of Chianti, and join us as we explore the ups and downs of your first trip to Italy. Have a funny story or valuable tip from your own Italian adventure? We want to hear from you! Email us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com and (anonymously) share your experiences. Ciao for now!

05-17
35:35

#9 Veni, Vidi, Vacationed: Work Life and the Many Vacations in Italy

Ah, Italy! The land of endless vacations, month-long summer breaks, and more federal holidays than you can count on both hands. But is life in Italy really just one big holiday? Join us as we dive into the realities of living and working in this beautiful country. In this episode, we'll explore the Italian approach to holidays and time off, and how it compares to the American experience. We'll also discuss the misconceptions about life in Italy and how, despite the generous vacation time, Italians still have to work hard and navigate the challenges of normal, everyday life (but obviously with a 🤌). From understanding Italian work culture to balancing it with leisure, we'll share our insights and experiences as Americans who have been living here for not long enough. So, grab an espresso, sit back, and join us on this journey through the ups and downs of Italian life! Want to share your own experiences of living and working abroad (anonymously)? Have any questions, comments, or suggestions related to this episode? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com.

05-09
20:52

#8 Bringing a Bit of Italy to the States

Today we're bringing a bit of la vita dolce to the land of the brave, which leads us to believe you ab-so-lute-ly CAN (or should) have it both ways. From getting the f**k over it to turning down the heat, we're spilling the beans on how to add a sprinkle of Italian spice to your star-spangled life. We'd also love to know what you'd bring to the states from Italy or beyond. Let us know anonymously but writing to us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com or commenting here if you listen on Spotify!

05-02
19:23

#7 Twizy, Scoot Scoots, and Other Ways to Get Around

What's your favorite way to get around town? You may be surprised to know that here in Rome (and across the European continent), there are MANY ways to shuffle to and fro. From stand-up scooters and bikes to tricycle cars, mopeds, and unicycles. We literally have it all. If you're curious about what a Twizy looks like, check out this link: https://americansanonymouspodcast.com/episode/twizys-scoot-scoots-and-other-ways-to-get-around/ Want to share a funny story about a getting-around fail? Write to us (anonymously)! aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

04-23
32:30

#6 More Culture More Better

Why do EU countries have more culture than US states? The obvious answer is centuries of history. But we can't deny the sheer size of America! And sure, each state does have its own bit of culture—especially between the broader regions. Do you agree? Do you think US states have a comparable amount of culture to individual EU countries? What's your take? Let us know anonymously by writing to us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

04-11
27:26

#5 Getting to the Point

We all know someone who just can't seem to get to the point. They talk in circles. Repeat things. Tell you everything except the answer you're looking for. That's also applies to Italians! At least most the ones we've interacted with so far. Know anyone like this and want to share your story? Or have a question for us? Let us know (anonymously)! Write to us at aa@americansanonymouspodcast.com

04-05
25:52

Recommend Channels