Italian American Stories Podcast

Welcome back to The Italian American Stories Podcast for the final installment of our three-part series on the life and family of Esther Albano. In this conclusion, we follow Esther as she seeks a fresh start. Leaving behind her past in New Orleans, she moves to California and marries Angelo Albano. For a time, life seems to be on the upswing. However, tragedy strikes once more when Angelo mysteriously disappears, leaving Esther alone and desperate for answers. Suspecting foul play, Esther takes matters into her own hands and kills Joseph, Angelo's former business partner, who is believed to be involved in Angelo's disappearance. As we unravel this intense chapter of Esther's life, we leave you with a tantalizing question: did Esther also put an end to the reign of terror by killing the Axman of New Orleans? Join us for a thrilling journey through Esther Albano's fight for survival, where courage, mystery, and resilience intertwine in an unforgettable story.

Welcome back to The Italian American Stories Podcast for the second installment of our three-part series on the life and family of Esther Albano. In this episode, we journey deeper into Esther's life. Her story takes a dramatic turn as she embarks on a new chapter, getting married. However, the joy of their union is soon overshadowed by a series of tragic events. The family is rocked when Esther's father-in-law commits a shocking crime, killing a man and casting a long shadow over them. The nightmare continues one night when Esther's husband is brutally murdered in their bed. Struck in the head while lying beside Esther, his death raises many questions and suspicions. Was it Esther herself? A vengeful act in response to her father-in-law's crime? Or could he have been the final victim of the notorious Axman of New Orleans? Join us as we try to unravel these mysterious events!

Welcome to the first episode of our special three-part series on The Italian American Stories Podcast where we delve into the captivating life and family history of Esther Albano. In this opening episode, we set the stage in 1899 New Orleans, a time and place fraught with challenges and opportunities for Italian Americans. We begin with a harrowing historical backdrop, discussing the infamous lynching of 11 Italians in New Orleans, an event that sent shockwaves through the Italian American community. Additionally, we briefly touch on the chilling tale of the Axeman of New Orleans, hinting at its connection to our series. Amidst this turmoil, we introduce Esther's parents, two determined immigrants who, in just four short years, transformed their American dream into reality by opening their very own grocery store. However, their journey was not without hardship. In February of 1899, tragedy struck when an intruder broke into their family home, marking a pivotal moment in their story. Join us as we explore the resilience and spirit of Esther Albano’s family, setting the foundation for a narrative filled with strength, perseverance, and hope.

Join us for our first "Tales from the Archives" episode! This special segment of the podcast will cover stories and articles that are too small for a full episode but still deserve to be told! In this first episode, we tell stories about love, a heroic rescue from a sewer, and so much more!

Welcome to a special Mother’s Day edition of The Italian American Stories Podcast! Join us as we delve into the rich history of Italian mothers through the lens of old newspaper articles. In this episode, we’ll explore the timeless wisdom, love, and strength embodied by Italian mothers as we read and discuss articles from the past. From heartwarming anecdotes to cultural insights, we’ll uncover the multifaceted roles and traditions that have shaped generations of Italian American families. So grab a cup of espresso, settle in, and celebrate Mother’s Day with us as we honor the remarkable women who have influenced our lives in ways both big and small. Buona festa della mamma!

In this heartfelt episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we delve into the remarkable life of Michael Frank Capra, as shared by a listener. Through tales of adversity and triumph, we uncover the courageous spirit of a man who navigated through the darkest of times with courage and resilience. Join us as we explore the captivating journey of Michael Frank Capra, a man who faced family tragedies with unwavering strength, ultimately emerging as a beacon of love and success. From unexpected twists involving mystery and intrigue to the listener's cherished memories filled with laughter, this episode is a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the human spirit.

Join mom and I on a heartfelt journey through the life of a remarkable man on what would have been his 100th birthday. In this special episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we pay tribute to my beloved grandfather, affectionately known as Papa. This episode is a tribute to Papa's enduring legacy and a testament to the power of Italian American stories to transcend generations.

Join us on a journey through the dusty trails of the Wild West as we uncover the captivating life of Charles Siringo, a true Italian American legend. Born to Italian and Irish immigrant parents in 1855, Siringo's life story is a testament to the adventurous spirit of Italian Americans. In this episode, we delve into Siringo's early years as a Texas cowboy, riding the range and facing the challenges of life on the open plains. But Siringo's story takes a thrilling turn when he joins the ranks of the legendary Pinkerton Detective Agency, becoming one of the most skilled and respected lawmen of his time.

In this episode, we explore the events surrounding Kitty Genovese's murder in 1964, in Queens, New York. Kitty Genovese, was a young Italian American woman whose life and untimely death sparked a pivotal moment in social psychology and emergency response systems. Join us as we honor the life and legacy of Kitty Genovese, exploring the intersections of tragedy, resilience, and the Italian American experience.

In this episode of "The Italian American Stories Podcast," we delve into the captivating journey of Frank Fiori, an Italian American whose tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit left an everlasting impression on the city of Denver.

Join us for a special New Year's episode that transports you to the frosty streets of Juneau, Alaska in 1915. In this short yet captivating episode, we delve into the murder of Mike Defino. Follow us as we piece together the events leading up to the murder. Tune in as we kick off the year with a tale that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your curiosity about the untold chapters of our heritage.

Dive into the warmth of the season with our Christmas Special episode of Italian American Stories, where we unwrap the past through nostalgic newspaper articles. In this episode, we bring you the story of a woman reliving a cherished childhood memory where she treks through a snowstorm, determined to reach her aunt's house for the beloved Feast of the Seven Fishes. And, to add a touch of humor to your holiday cheer, we close the episode with a chuckle-worthy exploration of the top ten gifts for Italian American children. Spoiler alert: These gifts are entirely fabricated, but they'll leave you in stitches as we imagine a world where bambini unwrap the most unexpected surprises. May your holiday season be filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of shared memories.

In the shadows of Denver's history lies a chilling tale that time has almost forgotten. Join us on this gripping episode as we delve into the dark secrets of the late 1800s, where the Italian Banditti, a notorious gang of 9 men, brutally murdered an entire family. Step back in time to an era where the lawless ruled the streets, and whispers of the Italian Banditti sent shivers down the spines of the unsuspecting residents. In this chilling narrative, we explore the infamous night when this gang descended upon an unsuspecting family, leaving tragedy in its wake.

In this special episode of the "Italian American Stories Podcast," we delve into the remarkable life and courageous actions of Anthony Casamento, a revered World War II veteran. Joining as a guest host for this episode is my husband, Jared, a Marine veteran with a shared passion for honoring the legacy of servicemen like Anthony. Anthony Casamento, an Italian American, exemplified unwavering bravery and selflessness during the Battle of Guadalcanal, ultimately earning the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism.

Join me and my special guest host, Jared a.k.a. my husband, as we explore the extraordinary journey of Clevio Massimo, a proud Italian-American whose relentless dedication and unyielding strength have taken him to the pinnacle of the strongman world. From humble beginnings rooted in Italian heritage to rising as a dominant force in the realm of strength athletics, Massimo's story embodies the perseverance and resilience deeply ingrained in the Italian-American identity.

In this Halloween special episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, join us for a spine-tingling journey into the world of haunted houses and ghostly tales deeply rooted in Italian American history. We delve into a collection of unearthed stories pulled from historical newspapers that recount eerie encounters and chilling stories within the Italian American community.

Welcome to "Paesani Tales," a special segment of Italian American Stories Podcast that delves into the personal stories and experiences of our listeners within the Italian American community. About once a month we will have a special episode where we will read the heartfelt stories submitted by our fellow Italian Americans, sharing their memories, adventures, and the moments that have forged their identities. Join us in celebrating the beauty and diversity of our Italian American culture, right here within the "Italian American Stories" family. Email us your "Paesani Tales," and let's share our stories! Email us at itamstories@gmail.com

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Angelo Noce, a visionary artist, and innovator, who played a pivotal role in making Columbus Day an official state holiday in Colorado. Angelo Noce's story is one of passion, dedication, and a commitment to cultural celebration. Join us as we go through the remarkable journey of how he championed the cause to establish Columbus Day as a state holiday in Colorado.

In this episode, we explore the tragic events of the Walsenburg Massacre that took place in Walsenburg, Colorado in 1895, where a group of Italian immigrants were targeted and killed. We delve into the historical background, examining the social and cultural context of the time that contributed to the escalation of violence against the Italian community. Join us as we uncover the untold stories and seek to understand the complexities surrounding this dark chapter in history, specifically focusing on the Italian victims affected by this tragic event.

This week I have a special guest host, my mom, Sandra! In this episode, we step back in time to explore the inspiring story of Louise, a remarkable Italian American woman who made her mark in the vibrant city of Denver. Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of a woman who defied convention, shattered glass ceilings, and became a trailblazer in the world of business. Also, stay tuned until the end where we connect to Louise to our own Italian family.