This week at La Befana’s Table, we’re joined by the brilliant Steve Cerulli—PhD student at Fordham University and Italian American diaspora specialist, and myth-buster extraordinaire.In honor of Italian American Heritage Month, Steve takes us on a whirlwind tour through the history of Italian migration to the Americas, from the earliest explorers to the waves of Southern Italians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We talk about how “Italian-American” identity was forged abroad, the realities of assimilation (or lack thereof), and why so many of the stories we tell ourselves are, well, a little bit of fiction.Key Themes:* Who Counts as Italian-American?Steve explains how early migrants identified more with their regions (Sicilian, Neapolitan, etc.) than with a unified “Italy”—and how the diaspora itself helped create a new identity.* The “We Came Here Legally” Myth:Spoiler: It was basically open borders for much of Italian migration history. Steve breaks down why this narrative is both inaccurate and often weaponized against today’s immigrants.* Assimilation & Return Migration:Did Italian immigrants really “become American” overnight? Not so fast. Steve shares stats and stories about return migration, language barriers, and the complex reality of assimilation.* Organized Crime, Radicalism, and Respectability:From bootleggers to labor organizers, Steve unpacks the real (and sometimes uncomfortable) history of Italian-American communities—beyond the sanitized “good immigrant” myth.* Columbus Day & Its True Origins:Think Columbus Day was created to honor Italian-Americans after the New Orleans lynching? Think again. Steve traces the holiday’s roots* Education & Breaking Stereotypes:Steve shares his latest research on Italian-American educators, busting the myth that Italian-Americans don’t value education.Share this episode with anyone who loves history, heritage, and a good conversation over a strong espresso.Comment below: What’s a myth about your heritage you wish more people would question?Show Your Support: Become a monthly Gift Giver or buy us a virtual espresso to keep the conversations & stories flowing.❤️ Much love and many blessings from La Befana’s Table to yours! ❤️ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
In this mini episode, I share the story of the Marigold Effect—a reminder that who we surround ourselves with shapes how we grow. When life feels full of “walnut trees,” the invitation is to dig into the soil of your own soul, do the hard inner work, and discover the grace that helps us become marigolds for others. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana’s Table and welcome to another edition of Espresso Yourself — Unfiltered musings meant to warm the heart and stir the Soul.In today’s edition of Espresso Yourself I share some of what is coming up for me in light of the passing of Pope Francis, a little bit about my own spiritual journey, and what I’ve learned about showing up 🎙️Episode ReferencesRevolution of Tenderness Clip from my Tedx “Heroines Show Up”And what is tenderness? It is the love that comes close and becomes real. It is a movement that starts from our heart and reaches the eyes, the ears and the hands. Tenderness means to use our eyes to see the other, our ears to hear the other, to listen to the children, the poor, those who are afraid of the future.To listen also to the silent cry of our common home, of our sick and polluted earth. Tenderness means to use our hands and our heart to comfort the other, to take care of those in need. Pope Francis 2017 Ted TalkPope Francis 2017 Ted TalkMy Books📚Love at the Threshold“This memoir, studded with poetry and insights, carries the reader through several tumultuous years of the author's life, the people she met and the groups she was in who helped her along the way, her setbacks and breakthroughs, and documents her incredible perseverance in the face of a series of obstacles” G. R. Elmendorf - Amazon Customer Review📚A Little Book of QuestionsIn a world that demands immediate answers, sometimes the greatest joy in life is to linger in the questions and let the answers reveal themselves. In A Little Book of Questions Dina has gathered 40 of the questions that have transformed her heart and invites you to linger in them too.Curious about the journey that inspired the creation of La Befana’s Table?Check out my 2022 Speaker Salon performance where I first shared story of how a puppet from ancient Italian folklore transformed my story into a living legend. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana’s Table and welcome to another edition of Espresso Yourself Monday — Unfiltered musings meant to warm the heart and stir the Soul.In today’s edition of Espresso Yourself I share the story of an ornament of a black sheep that I’ve been holding onto for years, an excerpt from Toka Pa Turner’s book Belong, and why I think now more than ever the so called “black sheep” of the family are being called to leads us into new ways of being, doing, and relating. ReferencesExcerpt from Toko Pa’s book BelongMy self published memoir Love at the Threshold This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana’s Table and welcome to another edition of Espresso Yourself Monday — Unfiltered musings meant to warm the heart and stir the Soul.What do a 2,000-year-old redwood, a fourth grader’s question, and a virtual Italian folk dance have in common?This week, I share a story from my teaching days that’s been echoing lately—about a student who once asked, “What’s the difference between revolution and evolution?” and another who blurted out the phrase “innovative resistance.” I didn’t have an answer then, but I knew it mattered.Now, years later, in a world on fire and a body in motion, I think I’m starting to understand.Tune in for a reflection on what it means to bear witness, hold on to cultural traditions and practices, and keep dreaming of a future rooted in beauty, justice, and joy.And if you’re craving movement and connection, join us this Friday, April 11th for a virtual Tarantella class with Anna Harsh (yes, from Episode 29!) followed by a free community gathering.More details below For now—press play. 💫www.labefanastable.com#LaBefanasTable #InnovativeResistance #EnergyDemocracy #Tarantella #TheEverlivingTree #DanceAsMedicine This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana’s Table and welcome to another edition of Espresso Yourself — your weekly shot of unfiltered musings meant to warm the heart and stir the Soul. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana's Table. Espresso Yourself Mondays are espresso fueled musings meant to warm the heart & stir the Soul. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana's Table. Espresso Yourself Mondays are espresso fueled musings meant to warm the heart & stir the Soul. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Yesterday we celebrated Valentine’s Day and love in all of its beautiful manifestations whether it's romantic, platonic, or the love we hold for ourselves and the world around us. However you spent Valentines day, we have a special treat for you. An Enchanting Conversation with Mariana BarcellosIn this conversation, we are honored to be joined by Mariana Barcellos, a luminous presence in the world of Brazilian Bossanova. In our conversation, Mariana shares insights into her latest musical offering, a heartfelt duo that echoes the heartbeat of human and heavenly love, released just in time for Valentine's Day. These songs invite listeners to immerse themselves in the depth of emotion they evoke.Reflecting on Love's IntricaciesMariana and I delve deep into the complexities of love, unpacking its layers of passion, commitment, and transformation. Together, we contemplate the profound impact of self-love on our relationships, recognizing the ripple effect it creates in our interactions with others. We discuss the importance of self-awareness and the alignment of celestial forces in nurturing balanced partnerships, and the ongoing challenge of cultivating and sustaining passion and trust.In an Ocean of LoveWe also explore her album Contos do Mar where Mariana embraces the enigmatic allure of the ocean, finding solace and healing in its mysterious depths and the gifts of love the bring. Key insights include:- Exploring the Depths of Love: Mariana Barcellos unveils her latest pair of love songs, capturing the essence of human and heavenly love. Her work, inspired by her personal journey and experiences, offers a fresh, compelling perspective on the varied dimensions love encompasses.- The Ocean's Melody in Healing and Self-Discovery: Mariana reflects on her own album "Contos do Mar," which pays homage to the ocean as a source of healing and a path to finding oneself. She shares her journey through music and how it’s interlaced with her evolving understanding of love and her identity as a singer-songwriter.- The Soundtrack to Our Soul's Journey: The episode beautifully ties together music, love, self-reflection, and the larger love story of humanity. Mariana emphasizes the substantial role of contemplation and balance in love, mirroring the natural cycles of the sun and moon.A Table Set with LoveAs we conclude our conversation, we invite you to pull up a seat at the table of love. Here, amidst the melodies and musings, we celebrate the boundless capacity of the human heart to love and be loved. Connect with Mariana:Website: http://marianasong.com/#marianasongMusic: https://marianabarcellos.hearnow.com/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uBDOyRnEtSb0GadfnzB7z?si=HBbyrlvvREmjd0WT8Ahf4w&fbclid=IwAR1cn_x_YYcD79GIC3PHkQOKWIAYWzeW5_XZlmTQJnP8cYZjNIqiPy3ytv8&nd=1&dlsi=63b81d15c29f4907If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
After a period of reflection and rest, we are excited to bring you another soul-nourishing conversation, this time with the incredible Chef JJ @chefjjskitchenLove for cookingChef JJ's culinary journey began as therapy for his mind. In the kitchen he found solace in chopping away his worries. His open-mindedness led him to embrace new recipes and unfamiliar ingredients, seeing them as gateways to understanding different cultures. Influence and cultural rootsIn this episode, Chef JJ talks about his mother's influence on his culinary journey and her traditional Palestinian recipes. He also shares his family background, living in Oman, and his Palestinian roots, expressing his connection to his culture through food.The Therapeutic and Connective Power of CookingWe delve into the healing power of cooking and how it helps him stay connected to his roots and the role of food as a form of education & resilience.Together, we explore the ingredients for a future where there is room for all of us at the table.🌟 Cultivating Humanity: Chef JJ emphasizes the essential ingredient of humanity in fostering understanding and empathy towards one another. Understanding different perspectives lies at the core of creating a truly inclusive future.🌟 Open-mindedness and Forgiveness: Through Chef JJ's own experiences and insights, he highlights the transformative power of being open-minded and the importance of forgiveness in paving the way for meaningful conversations and understanding.🌟 Love and Connection: Chef JJ reminds us that love is an essential ingredient for a harmonious future. Embracing love and nurturing connections with others is vital for building a world that encompasses and uplifts everyone.Exciting announcement Chef JJ is now hosting a series of interactive Middle Eastern cooking classes, where you can learn to prepare delicious and traditional dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen.Here are the details:- Chef JJ will guide you through six authentic recipes, including Palestinian and other Middle Eastern cuisines.- The sessions will be interactive, allowing you to cook alongside Chef JJ or simply watch and learn.- Prepare to engage in discussions about the history, ingredients, and cultural significance of each dish.If you're interested in reserving your spot for these special cooking classes, sign up here!! https://bio.site/chefJJConnect with Chef JJ:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjjskitchen/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRhi2YOJXtYoXuO6dhRhYAThank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table!Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Greetings from La Befana’s Table! In today’s episode I’m joined by Mattie Clark, a luminary in the realms of Family Constellations and Convergence, who guides souls toward their true essence. Mattie takes us on a heartfelt exploration of the concept of "courting convergence," where the integration of our parts leads to surrender and allowing the life force to work its magic, in bringing all aspects of our lives together.If you remember, we also touched on the topic of convergence with Rebecca GinaMarie in our last episode, where we imagined a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges, through mutual care. Today, we delve deeper into these ideas, exploring how acknowledging and understanding family dynamics play a pivotal role in in personal and societal change. So how does acknowledging and understanding family dynamics impact our personal growth?In this episode, our guest explores this profound question, delving deep into the ways in which our family histories shape our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships. By recognizing the ancestral patterns, beliefs, and behaviors passed down through generations, we gain the power to break free from limiting cycles and chart our own destinies. Key takeaways:* Surrender and Integration: Explore the art of surrender and how integrating different aspects of ourselves can lead to transformative experiences.* Breaking Limiting Cycles: Understand the power of recognizing and breaking free from generational patterns, beliefs, and behaviors.* Emotional Alchemy: Discover the transformative potential of emotional alchemy, turning challenging emotions into sources of personal growth.* Authentic Activism: Learn the importance of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.By the end of this episode, you'll gain profound insights into the art of surrender, emotional alchemy, and finding your authentic self within the complexities of the world. You'll learn the importance of acknowledging your place in societal structures and discover the power of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.Learn More About Our Guest:To learn more about our insightful guest, Mattie Clark, and explore her transformative work, visit her website here!Interested in courting convergence with Mattie? 7 Thursdays 6-7:30pm ESTOctober 12th, 19th and 26th - November 2nd, 9th, 16th and 30thLearn More HereThank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table! Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend. Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Welcome to another episode of La Befana’s Table! Today, I have our good friend here Rebecca GinaMarie with me. In this episode, we dive into the concept of "border stalking" and its significance in promoting empathy, communication, and reconciliation in a divided world. We also discuss the idea of convergence, inclusivity, and the value of beauty and creativity in our lives.The Great Convergence ZoneWe explore the notion of a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of caring for one another, regardless of our differences, and the potential for positive change when we approach collective issues as a unified community.Overcoming Tribalism and Finding Common GroundWe also delve into the obstacles of overcoming tribalism and stress the necessity of finding common ground with those who hold different beliefs. We highlight the need to envision an inclusive and welcoming future for all and underscore the power of shared positive experiences in building resilience and unity.The Transformative Power of UnityThroughout the episode, personal experiences and insights are shared, touching on topics like political polarization, the role of artists in promoting empathy, and the significance of creating spaces for meaningful conversations.Key Questions for Reflection* How can we bridge the gap between opposing beliefs and foster understanding?* What role do artists play in promoting empathy and unity?* Why is it important to envision a future that is inclusive and welcoming to all?* How can shared positive experiences build resilience and unity in our society?* What if we could find common ground and work together to address our collective problems?* How can we foster understanding, empathy, and cooperation in times of division and polarization?* What role can each of us play in building a better future for ourselves and future generations?A Call to UnityIn today's world, where divisions seem to grow deeper, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how we can come together and make a difference. We understand the challenges of navigating a world divided by differing beliefs and ideologies. Join us as we share personal experiences and insights to help you find common ground and foster unity in your own life. It reminds us that, despite our differences, we all share a common humanity and the potential to create a more harmonious society.Meet Our Lovely GuestRebecca Ginamarie is an Italian-Slavic American writer living in Florida. She also works as a communications strategist for human-centered organizations that align their success with the common good. She spends her free time over good books, good jokes, and good games with her neighbors and loved ones. She’s also the writer behind a substack series, “Letters of UltraAzuli”About Letters of UltraAzuli“Letters of UltraAzuli”, a forthcoming series of slightly-magical fictional stories.Through culturally-rooted storytelling, the series explores historical and potential future models that illustrate cooperative, democratic societies and tackle potential hurdles to coming together.You can subscribe to have her free public letters delivered right to your inbox, follow the letters directly on Substack or join her for discussion on Instagram.Sign-up for Email Delivery: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/Follow on Substack: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/Thank you for joining us on this episode of "La Befana's Table." We hope you found inspiration and insights into building bridges and finding common ground in our diverse world. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #LaBefanasTable. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Welcome back to another episode of La Befana’s Table! I'm thrilled to have you join us today for a conversation that's going to take us on a unique and transformative journey. If you remember, we had the pleasure of having Jen Violi sit down at La Befana’s Table back in Episode 15. Jen Violi is a remarkable writer, mentor, and facilitator of elemental writing courses. She's the author of the captivating novel "Putting Makeup on Dead People," a finalist for the prestigious Oregon Book Award. Jen has also crafted numerous published essays, short stories, prose poems, and other works of word magic.Today, we're diving into a new and exciting chapter of Jen's journey – a six-month adventure that will lead us through the heart of fall and winter, exploring the themes of falling apart, decomposing, and ultimately finding renewal in the face of life's natural cycles. This incredible journey is aptly named "Decompose” Get ready to decompose with Jen Violi as we discuss grief, renewal, and the transformative power of embracing the cycles of life and death.Important key points that we talked about: * The importance of recognizing and embracing the inevitability of death and its significance in our lives* The value of embracing the different seasons in one's life and acknowledging the cyclical nature of growth, decay, and rebirth* Embracing new stages of life and growth by allowing things to die and transform* How vulnerability and authenticity open up portals of connection and empathy* The essence of embracing messiness in writing and the invitation it holds🎉🎉Join the Elemental Writing Journey🎉🎉Ready to embrace messiness and deepen your writing journey? Sign up for Jen's elemental writing course and receive a toolkit to enhance your writing experience. Explore different tiers of registration and payment plans to find the right fit for you. Register by September 15 to receive a special care package and kick off the transformative journey on September 21. Visit jenvioli.com to learn more and sign up. If you're not ready for this journey yet but want to stay informed about future elemental writing offerings, sign up for her mailing list.Special Offer for you: Friends of La Befana’s Table who sign up for the course and mention the podcast will receive an exclusive eBook titled "Writing the Moon." This beautifully designed eBook offers prompts, rituals, and insights to deepen your writing practice.Connect with Jen:* Website- www.jenvioli.com* Instagram- @jenvioliOther links and resources mentioned:* Episode 15: Writing as a Wholly Embodied Act as a Wholly Embodied Being with Jen Violi* Putting Makeup on Dead People by Jen Violi (novel)* Running with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes (book)Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting SubscriberWhether you're a supporting subscriber or a free subscriber, I warmly invite you to join us around La Befana’s Table for our monthly community and connection hour which takes place on the first Thursday of each month 7pm EST. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Welcome to another enchanting episode of La Befana’s Table!It's always fascinating to learn from people like Melissa Laurita Kohl, who brings such a unique blend of traditions, practices, and magic into their lives. Join us as we sit down with the delightful Melissa, whose journey from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Vermont reveals the transformative power of nature and ancestral connections. In this episode, we delve into the world of Melissa Laurita Cole, an inspiring individual who has masterfully intertwined the realms of herbal magic and culinary art. Discover how she masterfully combines her expertise in herbs with her love for comfort food, resulting in dishes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also nurture both body and soul. Melissa's story about connecting with her ancestors is truly heartwarming. She talks about her special bond with her great-great aunt Millie, which shows how family ties are something magical. Through making pasta, Melissa bridges generations, respecting her heritage while crafting something fresh and beautiful.Her journey from city life to nature's embrace and her Italian roots reminds us that there's more than one way to find ourselves. I'm excited to see Melissa keep exploring her unique blend of herbal magic and pasta-making, and I hope her story inspires you to find magic in your own life.More of what we talked about: * 9:17 The balance of being a preservationist, preserving the old and embracing the new, and keeping it in a way that is authentic* 16:16 The history of medicinal herbs in pasta* 26:19 The importance of making pasta for the healing* 37:23 The process of letting yourself fall apart and being grateful despite life’s adversariesThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriberdinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Have you ever wondered about the role of art in connecting diverse communities and cultures?Today, I had the distinct honor of engaging in a heartfelt conversation with Tijay Mohammed here in the enchanting ambiance of La Befana's Table.Tijay is a Bronx-based Ghanaian-born artist who creates site-specific installations, collages, and paintings that explore the heart of his community and the essence of humanity. His interactive art is inspired by “Sankofa,” a Ghanaian Adinkra symbol that means to “learn from the past for a prosperous future” and demonstrates a commitment to community, self-love, and appreciation. Tijay and I had a serendipitous encounter during a street festival here in Harlem New York, where a chance interaction marked the beginning of a unique bond. And in this episode, Tijay shares the heartwarming story of his iconic artwork, "Mama Ubuntu," a thought-provoking composition inspired by the Statue of Liberty. From the profound symbolism of the wisdom-laden head wrap to the meticulous detailing of significant individuals who've touched his life, Tijay delves into the symbiotic relationship between his art and its viewers.He also talks about his series, "The Ache for Home Lives in All of Us," inspired by the story of his daughter and the concept of a safe haven within one's heart. We explore the concept of home, emphasizing that it's not just a physical space, but a feeling within one's heart. Tijay further enchants us with the tale of the Baobab Tree mosaic, nestled in the embrace of Van Cortlandt Park, and its intention to symbolize unity and peace through broken tiles. Join us as we uncover the intricate connections between personal stories and shared experiences, the power of symbols, and the collective wisdom that drives art and human interaction. Tijays's journey as an artist shines a light on the transformative potential of creativity and connection, making this episode a captivating exploration of the human spirit and the art that flows from it.Celebrate yourself and join Tijay for his ongoing exhibition at the Casita Center Maria for Arts & Education! More details here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Welcome back to another episode of La Befana’s Table!Today, I have an extraordinary conversation to share with you with the talented artist, Victoria Haf.Born in 1988, Victoria hails from Mexico City. Her journey took a fascinating turn when she married and became a mother in Calabria, Southern Italy. Today, she resides in the quaint town of Motta Filocastro, where she is learning from the old tradition of mutual aid in one of the poorest regions of Europe.In this conversation, we touched on various topics, including her family history, the richness of land, and her work in the realm of "magia agreste," a form of devotion through art. We also delved into the significance of collective healing, the role of grief and mourning in the journey of renewal, and the importance of building genuine connections within a community.Victoria's story is truly inspiring and reminds us of the importance of staying connected, embracing our roots, and finding healing through art and devotion.Key points from this episode:* 7:52 How Calabria has shown Victoria, God. The journey of finding her place in the diaspora, finding the capacity to grow what she feels is a void in her relationship.* 28:07 Seeing the world through the eyes of a senior citizen* 36:46 The story of Gigante Heads (her art)* 45:08 Magical realism in Calabria* 52:08 Calabria as a treasure, keeping traditions alive and healing her in so many waysConnect with VictoriaWebsite: https://magiagreste.wordpress.comIG: @magia.agresteThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriberdinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
Welcome to La Befana's Table! In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the world of dance and life with the incredibly talented Franck Muhel, whose worldview revolves around the idea that Life Is Now. Franck's life motto, "Life is Now," became a powerful message he wanted to spread through his gift of dance. He believes that dancing is not just a form of self-expression but also a means of sharing love and joy with others. Join us for this inspiring conversation that will make you appreciate thee beauty of dance and the importance of living in the now. Franck's profound insights remind us that life is a precious gift that we should cherish and make the most of, embracing each moment with joy and humility. So, let's dance to the rhythm of life!🔥Join the Hottest Salsa Performance Training Series with Franck Muhel!🔥Mark your calendars for July 23rd, 2023, and every Sunday thereafter, as we invite you to join the highly anticipated Salsa Performance Training Series led by the renowned dance maestro, Franck Muhel!Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry! To get all the juicy details and secure your spot in the series, simply click here!Franck Muhel's performances are renowned for their dynamic creative energy that inspires and electrifies audiences all over the world. As principal dancer with Eddie Torres, the Mambo King, and featured soloist, Franck has performed and choreographed with internationally acclaimed orchestras: Eddie Torres Mambo Kings Orchestra, Mitch Frohman Latin Jazz Quartet, Mambo Legends , Eddie Montalvo Band, Bobby Sanabria and more. Franck Muhel can be seen in the famous movie Warner Bros Pictures. “In The Heights”Key points from this episode:* 4:38 The role of humility in dance* 14:44 Learning to appreciate every second of life* 24:00 The connection between dance and developing the sixth sense* 30:00 How to stay open to the moment as a dancer* 39:53 Energy is all about everything in lifeThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriberdinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
In this episode of La Befana’s Table, we are joined by Irma Cadiz "The Coquito Lady", a remarkable woman with a passion for her cultural heritage and spreading joy through her business. Irma shares her journey of discovering and embracing her Puerto Rican roots, and how it led her to become The Coquito Lady. Through her story, we explore the power of food and drinks in connecting with our heritage and preserving traditions. Join us as we dive into Irma’s experiences, memories, and her mission to share her culture with the world.Know more about Coquito Lady here. Key takeaways from this episode:2:04 Culture served on ice. Irma reflects on her mission to preserve and celebrate her Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage through her beverages6:43 Rediscovering Cultural Heritage16:05 The importance of not taking oneself too seriously and finding joy in shared experiencesThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber dinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
In this episode of "La Befana’s Table”, I am joined by Elisa Spring, a mother of wild and free-range children, an apprentice to eros and grief, who believes in the power of truth-telling to foster intimacy.Join me as we delve into a deep and transformative conversation with Elisa, exploring the journey of embracing one's true self and the significance of becoming the elder we longed for. Elisa's unique perspective, combined with her powerful presence, offers listeners a fresh and inspiring outlook on personal growth and connection.Know more about Elisa here.Key takeaways from this episode: * 6:11 Life's unexpected events often lead to a need for change in identity, inviting us to embrace new levels of initiation and foster a shared understanding.* 19:23 Trusting the body as an ally, developing a deep connection from childhood, intentional relating, and learning how to ally with our bodies.* 31:28 Embracing the grief of elderhood, learning from nature, and overcoming the fear of feeling all emotions, bridges the gap between aging and becoming an elder.* 39:38 Discovering the path to becoming the elders we long for requires a conscious effort to embody the qualities we wished our own elders possessed, empowering us to guide future generations with wisdom and compassionThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and or becoming a supporting subscriber. dinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe
In today’s episode of La Befana’s Table, Dina is joined by Anna Harsh, a dancer, author, podcaster, and speaker. Anna is the author of the book "La Danza: Conflict, Passion, and Healing."In this episode, we delve into Anna's journey as a dancer and her quest to preserve and showcase traditional Italian folk dances. From researching archives and interviewing experts to forming a dance company and performing for Pope John Paul II, Anna shares her experiences and the profound lessons she has learned along the way.Know more about Anna here.Keypoints we talked about that you don’t want to miss: 1:42 Where Anna’s journey of researching Italian folk dance started9:26 Learning more about movement as a human being 11:27 How the geographical location and historical context of a region influence the movements and themes of the dances26:55 The Power of folk dances, oneness and unity43:52 How to find stillness in your dancingThanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community & connection hour. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe