This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) celebrates Italian-American Heritage Month and Family History Month with Valerie Fortney-Schneider—writer, author, genealogist, and expat living in Italy.

Valerie shares her experiences from nearly 20 years of living in Italy, from her ancestral region of Basilicata to her current home in Ascoli Piceno (Le Marche). Listeners will discover what life is really like beyond Tuscany, as Valerie explores the heart of Italian culture—where hospitality is sacred, community is central, and every meal tells a story. She also discusses her work as a professional genealogy researcher, helping Americans trace their roots and rediscover ancestral connections through travel.

Valerie authored "52 Things to See and Do in Basilicata," the first English-language guidebook dedicated solely to the region. Together with her husband Bryan Schneider, author of "Italian Ancestral Journeys: A DIY Guide to Visiting Your Ancestors’ Towns," she has helped hundreds of travelers rediscover their roots and experience Italy through local eyes.

From the ancient city of Matera to the local markets, vineyards, and kitchens of small Italian towns, this conversation captures the rhythm, warmth, and authenticity that define life in Italy.

🌐 Learn more about Valerie’s work: http://www.myancestralitaly.com 

📚 Explore her books: https://www.myancestralitaly.com/books 

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 

🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Way Back When History channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m