Little Italy Podcast & Little Italy of LA Podcast
Little Italy Podcast & Little Italy of LA Podcast celebrate Italians & Italian Americans contributing to art, culture, science, travel, community, and so much more throughout the U.S., Los Angeles, and beyond. Created and hosted by Deborah Zara Kobylt, award-winning journalist and proud Italian American living in Los Angeles, who grew up in NJ, NY, and Fla.
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Bryan & Stephanie Mazzarello, Filmmaker, “Make Me Italian”
03/20/2024
Bryan & Stephanie Mazzarello, Filmmaker, “Make Me Italian”
Please welcome to our show, Bryan and Stephanie Mazzarello, creators of their brilliant short film, “Make Me Italian,” which follows the story of an Italian-American man attempting to prove his Italian citizenship through ancestry so he can attain an Italian passport. The story is loosely based on Bryan’s experience of getting his Italian passport, and it’s quite a story. We talk with Bryan about that, and also how he was motivated to do this after a backpacking trip through Europe landed on the very soil where his grandparents lived. Let’s just say he felt the calling. Stephanie was the creative director on the film, and this is so beautifully shot and choreographed, we discuss that with her as well. Please join our shows on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s a pleasure to have you join us. Please invite your friends and family, and if you have an Italian story for us, we’d love to hear about it Please join us on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt. Thanks for joining us.
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Andria Litto, Filmmaker, “My Father Moves Mountains”
03/20/2024
Andria Litto, Filmmaker, “My Father Moves Mountains”
Please welcome to our show the mega-talented writer, producer, and director Andria Litto, who joins us to discuss her magnificent documentary, “My Father Moves Mountains,” about her dad, George Litto, who represented many of Hollywood’s top writers who were black-listed during the McCarthy era and beyond. This is a fascinating film, with detailed interviews from actors, writers, and agents, with film footage of a time in Hollywood when studios could crush the careers of actors and writers, but George Litto wasn’t afraid of them. Instead, he fought for the rights of people he thought were unfairly blacklisted, and ended up behind some of Hollywood’s most accomplished films from “Mash” and “Midnight Cowboy.” He later went on to produce films directed by Brian DePalma. And Andria, his daughter, had a front row seat to it all and joins us to talk about it. Please join our show on #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast on all video and audio platforms. And invite your friends and family, too. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s a pleasure to have you join us.
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Ann Potenza, Producer/Creator “The War of Roses” play, & Event Producer
02/21/2024
Ann Potenza, Producer/Creator “The War of Roses” play, & Event Producer
Please welcome to our show my dear friend, Ann Potenza, who is bringing an exceptional play to life in Los Angeles for the upcoming Women’s History Month, called “The War of Roses - The Women. The Voices. The Vote.” This is an important play that talks about the women suffragettes, and the play follows some of the most memorable names who were at the forefront to getting women out to vote. In fact, “The War Of Roses,” making its debut the El Portal Theatre in No.Hollywood on 3-1 and 3/2, is also encouraging all participants to Get Out The Vote (GOTV) that evening. Ann is also a well-established Events Planner in Los Angeles, behind some of Hollywood’s most notorious events, starting with the San Gennaro festival she brought to LA a few years ago, along with her cousin, Jimmy Kimmel, exec producer Doug DeLuca, and other notable Italians. So we will also be talking with Ann about growing up Italian, some of her favorite traditions, hanging with Jimmy as kids, and where she sees the Italian community growing in the future. And it’s all Amore! Please join us on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast on all video and audio platforms. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I’m happy to have you here!
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Raffaella Valentini, Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles
12/05/2023
Raffaella Valentini, Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles
We are pleased to welcome to our show, Raffaella Valentini, esteemed Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles. Raffaella has years of experience having worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, overseeing projects promoted by Italy in the Balkins, North Africa, and Middle East. She’s also worked at the Embassy’s economic office in Albania and Cairo before coming to Los Angeles. Raffaella has keen ideas on how she sees her position here, as it covers a large territory from California to Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada, and she wants to make sure to serve the various economic and cultural groups in each region. For example, Los Angeles is so vast, and she sees her job as serving the many Italians and Italian Americans from each area in a variety of capacities including science, technology, film, food, travel, and more. And as a woman in such high office, she also knows how important it is to set an example for other women looking to leave their mark in political office. We will talk with Raffaella about her role with the cultural institute, as well as delve into her early life. Did she always want to be a diplomat? Were her parents in public service? What is perhaps the greatest challenge she sees serving the Los Angeles community? What are her immediate goals here? And for those Americans asking, the Consulate can guide on how to apply for an Italian passport, but it is not necessarily their job. I can tell you Raffaella has already left her mark. She is poised and a sharp learner. Diplomatic and effective. But there’s lots of work she wants to get done, and we’ll talk to her about that, too. Please join me on my #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, and #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, a proud Italian-American whose family is from Avellino. Thank you for joining me, and please invite your friends as well.
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Chef Bruno Serato, Anaheim White House Restaurant & Caterina’s Club
11/29/2023
Chef Bruno Serato, Anaheim White House Restaurant & Caterina’s Club
It was an extraordinary day this week at Anaheim White House Restaurant, where Chef Bruno Serato opened his doors to raise money for his beloved Caterina’s Club so Bruno and his team can feed near 25,000 kids and families in need every month! That’s A LOT of Pasta! And we’ll find out just how much was raised at yesterday’s #PastaThon when we speak with him. Bruno has become a friend over the years, and many of us call him a saint. His generosity was inspired by his mom, Caterina, who gave him the inspiration to feed hungry children in nearby Anaheim. He took the challenge, and 13 years later, he’s been recognized by Time Magazine, CNN Heros, the Pope, and others around the globe. We will talk with Bruno about his humble beginnings before moving to the United States, where his restaurant quickly became a fixture in Southern California. But he’s faced plenty of tough times, like the evening his restaurant burned to the ground a few years ago, and his first thought was, “how will I feed the children.” He rebuilt, and came back stronger than ever. Please join me in welcoming Bruno to our #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast and #DeborahKobyltLIVE on all video and audio platforms.
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Rick Caruso, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
11/07/2023
Rick Caruso, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Rick Caruso has become a household name, known as a mega-successful real-estate developer, philanthropist, and LA mayoral candidate, but I know him as the family man who has Sunday dinners with his family, no matter what’s going on. And he credits much of that to his strong Italian roots. Please join me in welcoming Rick to our show, where we’ll talk about some little-known facts about the man behind some of THE most successful retail shopping centers in the country. Did you know #TheGroveLA attracts more visitors each year than Disneyland? What’s his secret sauce? We’ll talk about that. How did a man who started out in the parking lot business make the move into retail development? And how did his traditional, Italian upbringing play a part in it all, being the grandson of Italian immigrants from Calabria who made their way to the coal mines in Pennsylvania before moving to California? We talk about that, too. Rick says he learns as much from what does work from what doesn’t. And that’s a big part of his success. And philanthropy. Providing opportunities to others has been a big part of his DNA long before running for public office. He and his wife, Tina, impart that on their four children, too. It seems to drive him. Please join our full interview with #RickCaruso on #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt. Thanks for joining our show (for which I was just nominated Journalist of the Year). Please invite your friends to our conversation with Rick, which can be found on YouTube, Facebook, and all audio platforms including iHeart and Apple Podcasts.
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Cristina Ferrare, Supermodel, TV Host, Author, Cancer Survivor, Influencer.
10/25/2023
Cristina Ferrare, Supermodel, TV Host, Author, Cancer Survivor, Influencer.
Please join me today as we welcome my beautiful friend, Cristina Ferrare - supermodel, New York Times best selling author, TV talk show host, chef, cancer survivor, mom, and much more. Cristina is of Italian descent, born to Renata and Tavio Ferrare, who was a butcher in Ohio. But they didn’t stay in Ohio long, because Cristina’s beauty was so blinding, she was signed by a top modeling agency in LA, and her career took off. She’s been on too many magazine covers to count, has been a spokesperson for Max Factor and other top brands, has written seven books and hit The NY Times best seller list. Cristina’s hosted numerous TV shows including Home and Family and AM Los Angeles, she’s a cancer survivor, mom, nona, and has led a very public life that has included it’s share of highs and lows. And she joins us today to talk all about it, including her passion for cooking, in particular, Italian cooking. Please join #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyPodcast on all video and audio platforms, and invite your friends to join, too. I’m your host, Deborah Zara Kobylt, and it’s a pleasure to have you join us
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Lorenzo Lisi & Celestino Drago - Made In Italy Expo
10/18/2023
Lorenzo Lisi & Celestino Drago - Made In Italy Expo
Love Italian food, wine, fashion, accessories and more? Then you MUST listen to our show today, featuring Lorenzo Lisi, creator of the Nexxt - Made in Italy Expo, happening this week Oct. 19-22 at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles. This is an extraordinary event featuring 120 of the finest vendors from Italy, there will be food tastings and more, and it’s FREE! Also joining us will be the legendary Celestino Drago, owner of Drago Centro, where he will presenting and evening of Italian elegance and fine dining to end the Expo and celebrate the Nexxt Foundation, which we will be discussing on our show. Celestino is a LEGEND, and we are honored to have him on our show to talk about his incredible career and life in the culinary arts, running one of America’s finest restaurants in downtown LA. Please tune into our show on #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #DeborahKobyltLIVE on all video and audio platforms, and invite your friends, too. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I’m excited to have you here and hope to see you at the #Expo
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Eleonora Granata Jenkinson & Andrea Pallaoro - The Film MONICA
10/18/2023
Eleonora Granata Jenkinson & Andrea Pallaoro - The Film MONICA
#Monica is a film worthy of an Oscar nomination, and I recently interviewed Eleonora Granata-Jenkinson, producer, and Andrea Pallaoro, director, about the making of this this beautiful movie. Monica is played Trace Lysette and Patricia Clarkson stars as her mother. The film is about a trans woman who was driven out of her home decades earlier because her family would not accept her life choice. But Monica returns to care for her ailing mother, and the humanity and emotions that evolve throughout this film are nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s a clip from our interview with Eleonora and Andrea, representing Italian-American filmmaking at its finest. They talk about making this movie, and the choices made to depict the story with such beauty. Monica is also getting Oscar nods, and the team will be fundraising to raise money for an Oscar campaign, and we also talked about that during our interview. Please find our full conversation with Eleonora and Andrea on all video and audio platforms of #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, and #DeborahKobyltLIVE, and invite your friends, too. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I’m honored to have you joining us
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Lynne Deutch, Evelyn Joan and Piero Addis
10/11/2023
Lynne Deutch, Evelyn Joan and Piero Addis
Today we celebrate Italian food and excellence in art. Please welcome to our show Evelyne Joan, owner of the infamous Mauro Cafe on Melrose, whose restaurant is as well known for its Italian cuisine as it is for supporting artists, which brings us to Lynne Deutch, also featured on our program. Lynne’s photography of her travels throughout the island of Capri will be featured at Mauro’s cafe beginning tomorrow. We speak with her about her work and her love of Capri, which is captured through her work. The exhibit was carefully executed by Italian artist and internationally acclaimed curator, Piero Addis, who will join us from Italy to discuss the exhibit and how he designed it to compliment the restaurant. We’re thrilled to be interviewing such a dynamic and talented team for our #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #DeborahKobyltLIVE as part of our #ItalianHeritageMonth series of interviews. Please join us, invite your friends, and come see the show at Mauro’s, which runs through November. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I’m happy to have you as part of our family
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Carlo Ponti, Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra
10/11/2023
Carlo Ponti, Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra
I’m thrilled to welcome our friend, Maestro #CarloPonti, joining us to discuss the opening of his Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra 2023/2024 Season this month. I’m passionate about music education, and Maestro Ponti has dedicated his time to raise money and awareness to bring music education to young people in schools through the work of his LAV Orchestra. All proceeds from the Los Angeles Virtuoso Orchestra funds musical education programs so young people have the opportunity to study music in schools throughout Los Angeles, regardless of economics. Of course, we will also talk about Mr. Ponti's early days, growing up with legendary mom, #SophiaLoren, his dad, film producer Carlo Ponti, Sr, and younger brother, Eduardo, also a filmmaker. Carlo tells us his home was filled with music and arts growing up. I can only imagine! The Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra premieres its upcoming season on Friday, October 20, at the Theater Raymond Kabbaz in West LA, one of my favorite theaters in the City of Angels. Carlo Ponti and the Orchestra look forward to sharing an exciting lineup of performances, featuring emerging young soloists who will make their debut with LAV's world-class musicians, LIVE. Please join us on all video and audio platforms of #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, and #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I hope you invite your friends to listen to our interview AND attend the upcoming LAV performances with Maestro Carlo Ponti.
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Pat Lalama, Award-Winning Journalist
10/04/2023
Pat Lalama, Award-Winning Journalist
Kicking off Italian American Heritage Month with ABC’s 20/20 Correspondent and friend, Pat Lalama, who joins our #LittleItalyPodcast to talk about growing up Italian, and how one talk from her dad, Nunzio, convinced her that she could do anything she set her sights on. Pat’s family is from both northern and southern Italy, which she says was always complicated growing up. Life wasn’t always easy, her dad left her mom when Pat was just 17, and she learned to accept a blended family. There were lots of laughs, complications, drinking, and then there was Uncle Johnny. She’ll explain all of that. Pat says she was always independent, had no interest in getting married, until she met famed attorney Tony Brooklier. She was widowed unexpectedly, and she’ll talk about that, too, because she wants to discuss the incredible grief associated with family and friends who take their own lives. Pat has had an enormously successful career as a TV correspondent, working in LA and nationally on Inside Edition, 20/20 where she works now, and more more. She credits her Italian upbringing for making her tough, but at the same time, loving. And can she cook?? She’ll talk about that, too! Please join us on @LittleItalyPodcast, @LittleItalyOfLAPodcast & @DeborahKobyltLIVE, and tell your friends, too! I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and welcome to #ItalianHeritageMonth!
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Marianna Gatto, Taste of Italy & Founder,Italian American Museum of Los Angeles
08/16/2023
Marianna Gatto, Taste of Italy & Founder,Italian American Museum of Los Angeles
Taste of Italy is back! Join us in DTLA on Sept. 23 for THE premiere Italian Food and Wine event in Los Angeles, featuring award-winning restaurants & wineries, fantastic LIVE entertainment, and some celeb guests, too! This is on of my favorite events in LA all year! Today, we speak with Taste of Italy creator and founder of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles, Marianna Gatto, telling us all about this upscale food and wine tasting event, which also benefits arts and educational programming for youth at #IAMLA. According to Marianna, #TasteOfItaly provides an opportunity to connect with some of SoCal’s most interesting, well-traveled, cross-cultural audiences, including philanthropists, celebs, influencers, and dignitaries. Not to mention some of the top restaurants and award-winning wines in the world. Tickets available at IAMLA.org Please find our full interview with Marianna on all #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, & #DeborahKobyltLIVE video and audio platforms. And please invite your friends, too. Looking forward to chatting with my friend, and talking all about this magnificent event that bring the entire city a little closer
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Robert Alegrinni, NIAF’s President
05/31/2023
Robert Alegrinni, NIAF’s President
Please give a warm welcome to Robert Allegrini, the distinguished president of the National Italian American Foundation, which does tremendous work preserving and highlighting the image and legacy of Italian Americans (for which I am one). Robert joins our #LittleItalyPodcast and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast to discuss NIAF’s mission for the Italian-American Community throughout the U.S. and beyond, and it’s very forward-thinking and exciting. As Robert describes, one of the main goals of NIAF is to strengthen ties between the United States and Italy by reflecting positive images of Italians in business, film, politics, and more. NIAF also provides grants and scholarships, travel opportunities to Italy particularly to first-time visitors, called Voyage of Discovery, there’s a NIAF museum, GALA events to raise money for education and cultural initiatives. And Robert is here to tell us the vision of NIAF moving forward in a changing world, but the one constant remains preserving our cultural heritage and encouraging the next generation of Italians to carry the torch. NIAF does so much, and I hope you’ll join me in welcoming Robert so he can tell you all about it. As an aside, Robert has enjoyed an incredible career in public relations and marketing with some of the top hotel brands in the world (Waldorf Astoria for one), he’s an author, and let’s just say this isn’t his first time with NIAF. He’s been a champion for so long, it’s only fitting he’s now President🇮🇹 Please join our full interview LIVE on all video and audio platforms of our #LittleItaly Podcasts, also simulcast on #DeborahKobyltLIVE. I’m your host, creator, and beyond-proud Italian American, #DeborahZaraKobylt. Thanks for tuning in, and please invite your friends as well❤️💚
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Lorenza Calamandrei, DJ, Music Producer, Composer
04/26/2023
Lorenza Calamandrei, DJ, Music Producer, Composer
Lorenza Calamandrei is known around the world as one of the most creative DJ’s, music producers, and songwriters of our time, and it’s so exciting to welcome her to our shows today. Born in Florence to a family of trapeze artists, artists, and even a priest, Lorenza recalls her dad reading philosophy to her at a young age. And she always recalls loving music. She started in Italy as the first female DJ, made her way to London and played in clubs like Met Bar, then to NY and eventually LA. She’s worked with everyone from Jay-Z, Katy Perry, Madonna, Beyoncé, and even Elton John’s birthday bash! Lots of stories there! As a resident of Los Angeles now, Lorenza has appeared on numerous TV shows, and spends much of her time producing original music of a variety of films, most recently Seven Women with Fran Drescher and Rosita Missoni, Maia with Rumer Willis, and Un Italiano Nel Mondo with Giuliano Gemma. Please welcome Lorenza to #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast on all video and audio platforms, and invite your friends, too. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt. Thanks for joining us.
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Annalisa / Inanna, Singer, Co-Founder of Better Earth Media, Author of Acrotopia
04/12/2023
Annalisa / Inanna, Singer, Co-Founder of Better Earth Media, Author of Acrotopia
Please welcome Annalisa Giolo, aka Inanna, who joins our show today to talk about how her singing and songwriting is completely inspired by what’s happening here on earth. Inanna was born and raised in Italy, decided to make LA her home after she did a house swap and fell in love with Southern California, which inspired her songwriting and performing. As a nature and animal rights advocate, and founder of Better Earth Media, she uses her platform as an artist to draw attention to our environment and now we can keep it from blowing up. As an Italian having grown up just outside of Venice, Inanna says music, dance, and nature were always a constant as a child, and she talks about growing up Italian, too, and how that has inspired her work. Join us on all video and audio platforms of #LittleItalyPodcast, #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, & #DeborahKOBYLTLIVE on all video and audio platforms. And invite your friends and family, too❤️💚
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Joe Farruggio, famed pizza maker, entrepreneur, restauranteur, and author
02/08/2023
Joe Farruggio, famed pizza maker, entrepreneur, restauranteur, and author
Please welcome to our show famed pizza maker, entrepreneur, restauranteur, and author, Joe Farruggio, whose pizzas in the Georgetown section of DC are a favorite with some very famous residents in the White House to movie stars like Harrison Ford (who also played a U.S. President in one of his films). Joe’s journey from Sicily is a story to be told, and he did just that in his book, “My Name Is Joe, And I Am A Pizza Man.” This is a terrific read about a man not shy to admit some mistakes, but also celebrate how each step led to his tremendous success, from his Il Canale and 90 Second restaurants, along with A Modo Mio, meaning “My Way,” and Joe wouldn’t have it any other way. We speak with Joe about family, belief in self, and keeping things simple to keep customers coming back. We also talk about his Italian upbringing and his trip on the Michelangelo ship from Italy was a life changing moment for him. Hear and see our full interview with Joe on YouTube, Facebook, and on all video and audio podcast platforms. Please also invite your friends, too, and spread the word about our show. #DeborahZaraKobylt #LittleItalyPodcast #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast #DeborahKobyltLIVE
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voice of The Galaxy, Radio Host Joe Tutino
02/08/2023
voice of The Galaxy, Radio Host Joe Tutino
On our #LittleItalyPodcast today, we speak with the longtime play-by-play voice of The Galaxy, Joe Tutino. Joe grew up in San Diego, the son of Italian immigrant parents. He played soccer as a kid, and realized the way to stay in the sport was to become an announcer. And that’s just what he did, taking a number of radio and writing jobs along the way. But in this business, that’s what you do. Jobs where you get them, take the opportunity, get better, get noticed. And Joe has definitely been noticed. We speak with Joe about his Italian upbringing, and the influences it had on his life growing up. We also talk about sports, discipline, and what it takes to get in the business. Please join us on YouTube, Facebook, and all other video and audio platforms. Make sure to invite your friends, too. #DeborahKobyltLIVE #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Stuart Waldner, Author of The Meatrix
01/18/2023
Stuart Waldner, Author of The Meatrix
Love MEAT? Well, Stuart Waldner joins our show today to talk about moving away from eating meat products not just for health, but for wealth. Keep reading, I’ll explain. Stuart wrote “Escape The Meatrix” a well-researched account on how reducing meat in our diets can make our bodies and minds healthier, in addition to the earth, atmosphere, and health of other animals, too, which benefits the entire eco-system. Stuart also talks about how investing in plant-based diets can be fiscally sound as well. His mantra, “Eat Plants, Feel Great, Save The Planet.” But this isn’t just another plant-based book, it’s based in science and research, in addition to HOW transition into plant foods can truly transform our health, possibly add years to our lives, and help stop the rapid decay of our climate issues. Stuart chronicles his own personal story as well, sort of a wake-up call after watching how unhealthy habits of friends and family consume their lives. Join us on #DeborahKobyltLIVE for this different take on plant-based foods, and please invite your friends, too. Thanks, as always, for tuning in. #DeborahZaraKobylt Please join our interview on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast, and invite your friends as well. It’s an honor to tell his story. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Filmmaker Michel Shane
01/18/2023
Filmmaker Michel Shane
Filmmaker Michel Shane didn’t envision himself as an activist, but circumstances in life brought him to a different place. The producer of “Catch Me If You Can” this time produced something even closer to his heart, “21 Miles In Malibu,” and Michel joins us today to talk about it. The Pacific Coast Highway is a long, twisty, narrow stretch of road, it’s beautiful but it’s also dangerous. Michel knows all too well, because his beautiful daughter, Emily, was killed by a driver said to be on a murder mission. She was just 12. In this film, Michel details the history of the 21 mile road that borders the Pacific Ocean, why it was built, and the history of the area and land long before a road was built there. It’s fascinating and well researched, and has gained the attention of the larger film community. The film will be shown at the Santa Barbara Film Festival this year. The goal is to draw attention to how the PCH can be safer. And he details that in his film as well. Please join us for this wonderful conversation, and invite your friends along as well. Thanks, as always, for tuning in. #DeborahKobyltLIVE #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Michele Palermo
01/12/2023
Michele Palermo
Michele Palermo was always a creative kid, dating back to her early years in Rome, and she joins us today to talk about her award-winning series, “Middlehood,” which celebrates the comedy and drama of being in the MIDDLE of everything, especially mid-life. Michele has had an incredible life and career, working with so many industry giants from Martha Stewart, Peter Horton, and she currently teaches TV writing at Columbia University, too. In our discussion with Michele, she tells us why she wrote this amazing series, during covid, and how her personal experiences with parents, aging, job changes, and relationships really hits home with anyone who’s seen the series, expected out soon to a streaming service near you, we’re just keeping it under wraps for now! Michele also talks about her Italian upbringing and how it’s played a huge role in her life and on the pages of Middlehood, too. Please join us on ALL video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. Thank you, and please invite your friends to join, too. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Dannie De Novo, lawyer, author, and “happiness” coach
11/30/2022
Dannie De Novo, lawyer, author, and “happiness” coach
Meet Dannie De Novo, lawyer, author, and “happiness” coach, but I assure you, her road to happiness wasn’t paved with gold. Dannie wrote “Get In A Good Mood & Stay There,” and “It’s All Gravy, Recipes for Happiness,” in addition to creating a successful coaching business on how to find your happy, which led to appearances on major TV Networks and shows. But life didn’t start out this way. Growing up in an Italian family in rural Pennsylvania, Dannie related more to her horses than people. Feeling out of sorts, she tried everything from pills to shock therapy to find her happy, but nothing worked, until she took matters into her own hands to find out what was truly the root cause of her terminal unhappiness. And she found it, and now helps others do the same. Please join #DeborahKobyltLIVE on all audio and video platforms, and invite your friends to hear Dannie’s story as well. It’s a real shocker. Thanks for tuning in, as always. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Vincent Paterson, Director and Choreographer
11/02/2022
Vincent Paterson, Director and Choreographer
Ever wonder how #Madonna, #MichaelJackson, and so many iconic performers got their moves? Remember the crotch-grab? You can thank famed choreographer and now author Vincent Paterson for that, and he joins us today to talk about his incredible book, “Icons & Instincts.” >>> >>> This is one of those “I can’t put this down” kind of reads, believe me. Vincent and I will discuss so many of his brilliant moves, like the one by Robin Williams in “Birdcage,” but we will also talk about the performers and what they were like behind the scenes. Vincent gives us a complete inside look to their most private moments. Can’t wait to talk with him, and even hear about some of the performers that were a challenge for him, too, and they’re some HUGE names as well. >>> >>> Join me on #DeborahKobyltLIVE on all audio and video platforms, and please invite your friends, too. We will also play this on our #LittleItalyPodcast as well (Vincent’s mom was Italian and we’ll be talking about that). We look forward to sharing his story with you. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Joe Orazi, Author, L’America
10/19/2022
Joe Orazi, Author, L’America
Author Joseph Orazi has always been interested in stories about the struggles of Italian immigrants, and he joins our show to discuss his latest book, “L’AMERICA,” which chronicles three immigrants from different regions in Southern Italy, exploring their stories of hope and resilience. Joseph has been a student of the Italian America journey for as far back as he can remember, and in 2005, he wrote the award-winning documentary, “Prisoners Among Us, describing the internment of Italians in WWII. In addition to writing numerous TV and radio commercials, Joe was also a staff writer for the popular soap, Ryan’s Hope. His song, Rescue You, Rescue Me, received a 2016 nomination for the American Songwriting Award. Let’s just say there’s a lot to talk about, including his Italian upbringing. Join us on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE and #LittleItalyPodcast, and please invite your friends, too. We appreciate the support. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Mariana Gatto, creator of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles
10/06/2022
Mariana Gatto, creator of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles
When celebrating #ItalianHeritageMonth, I enjoy highlighting the rich cultural heritage and history of the Italian and Italian American people, particularly art, music, literature, architecture, and of course the stories surrounding them. Today we interview Mariana Gatto, creator of the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles, located near Olivera St. in DTLA, housed inside the oldest remaining structure in the area, built in 1908. It’s a treasure, complete with an original speak easy door from the prohibition days. The #IAMLA is a gem, packed with stories of the Italian American journey to this country, complete with in depth stories and research into each exhibit. There are revolving exhibits, such as the one about women’s needlework from the Italian diaspora, called, Woven Lives. Next month, the Pinocchio exhibit, A Real Boy: The Story of Pinocchio, which is sure to be a hit, as this story has been told to generations and still enthralls young and old. There’s a new interactive app, too, featuring some of your favorite Italians telling their stories. Mariana talks anout her vision, how she created this gem of a museum, we talk about her life growing up Italian in Los Angeles, and so much more. Please join us on #DeborahKobyltLIVE and #LittleItalyPodcast on all video and audio platforms, and invite your friends, Italian or not. This story is for everyone. Thanks for tuning in🇮🇹 #DeborahZaraKobylt @italianamericanmuseumofla @gattolosangeles #iatalianmuseum #italianculture #americanitalian #LittleItalyLosAngeles #LittleItalyLA #LittleItalyodcast #italian #italianhistory #italianstories #littleitalyla
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Nick Rimedio
09/29/2022
Nick Rimedio
“This isn’t a job. Hospitality is a vocation,” says #NickRimedio, GM of the trendy #LaPeerHotel in #BeverlyHills, and soon, Nick will join the #WHollywood. We spoke with Nick on #DeborahKobyltLIVE and our #LittleItalyPodcast, and he told what what’s helped him become a success: his NONNA (and of course hard work!) Nick credits his #Italian #grandma with giving him the discipline and confidence to do anything in life, and we talk about some of the non-traditional routes he’s taken to get to where he is today, and it started in the kitchen. Join us for our conversation with Nick, LIVE on all of our video and audio platforms, and invite your friends, too. Sometimes, the path to success isn’t an Ivy business school, but it’s the schooling we get from our families that give us the edge. #DeborahZaraKobylt - @nickrimedio #hotels #hospitality #lepeerhotel #weho #travel #losangeles #luxuryhotel #hotel #hospitality #inspiration #podcast
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James Pierre and Ken Atchity
09/29/2022
James Pierre and Ken Atchity
Growing up in NJ, stories about the mob often led the news. It was terrifying, but peaked one’s curiosity at the same time. And being of Italian decent, it was the topic of many conversations Today on my #LittleItalyPodcast and #DeborahKobyltLIVE, I speak with James Pierre, author, “GAMBINO: The Rise,” and also Ken Atchity, film producer and literary manager who’s turned many best sellers into successful films. Pierre got the idea for the book when he witnessed something as a child - a mob hit - and told no one until he decided to write about it as an adult. He talks about growing up in NY, and calls himself “a student of all things mafia,” and his knowledge past and present is astounding, as is his story. Ken has been behind some of the Hollywood’s most successful films, and says this story has “Godfather” potential with its rich history and cultural perspective. James and Ken both join us for our interview. I hope you’ll tune in, and invite your friends, too, available on all video and audio podcast platforms. #DeborahZaraKobylt - #KennethAtchity #memoir #filmmaking #autobiography #Interview #reading #author #writing #storymerchantbooks #Books #publishing
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Carlo Ponti
09/29/2022
Carlo Ponti
Please welcome Maestro #CarloPonti, joining us to discuss the opening of his Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra 2022/23 Season this week. When Maestro phoned me yesterday, I was so honored to be able to discuss with our audience the critical work he does to bring music education to young people through his LAV Orchestra. Our interview with Mr. Ponti airs on all #DeborahKobyltLIVE and #LittleItalyPodcast platforms. All proceeds from the Los Angeles Virtuoso Orchestra goes toward music education programs to ensure young people have the opportunity to study music in schools and elsewhere, regardless of economics, and we will be discussing this today. Of course, we will also talk about Mr. Ponti’s early days, growing up with legendary mom, #SophiaLoren his dad, film producer Carlo Ponti, Sr, and younger brother, Eduardo, also a filmmaker. The premieres its upcoming season this Friday, Sept. 30, at the Theater Raymond Kabbaz. Carlo Ponti and the Orchestra look forward to sharing an exciting lineup of performances, featuring emerging young soloists who will make their debut with LAV’s world-class musicians, LIVE. Go to lavirtuosi.org for more information. I hope you’ll join me, as I’m honored to be attending. #DeborahZaraKobylt
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Vanessa Racci: a 38-year-old jazz and cabaret singer.
09/15/2022
Vanessa Racci: a 38-year-old jazz and cabaret singer.
Meet Vanessa Racci, a 38-year-old jazz and cabaret singer, influenced at a young age by legendary performers Dean Martin, Connie Francis, and Frank Sinatra when her grandfather played their music around the house. And that’s when she got the bug to perform. But Vanessa almost didn’t pursue her dreams, because her traditional family influenced to pursue a more “stable career.” And that’s where her story begins. After working in the corporate world, Vanessa decided to ditch the 9-5, train, and go on the road. Since then, she’s been singing with some of the greatest performers of our time, and loving every minute. She joins us today on #DeborahKobyltLIVE and the #LittleItalyPodcast to encourage others to listen to their inner voice, and not someone else’s. Because that’s why we’re here, to flourish with the gifts we were born with. Please find our show on all video and audio platforms, and invite your friends, too. We appreciate your support. #DeborahZaraKobylt @vanessaracci #vanessaracci #italianamericansingers #Italianjazz #vintagetunes #jazzmusic #jazzsinger #retrojazz #italianamericanmusic
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John Di Domenico
08/24/2022
John Di Domenico
Meet John Di Domenico, or should I say, Austin Powers, Jay Leno, Donald Trump, Dr. Phil, and so many other impressions John does of some of the most famous people on the planet. John is an actor, comedian, writer, impressionist and he’s crazy good. So good in fact, and he’s in such demand around the globe, that we’re lucky we got him for our podcast. And did you see him on the cover of Los Angeles Magazine or on Conan doing his impressions? Amazing. John grew up in an Italian-American household, and he has lots to share with us about growing up Italian. We talk about his he got his start, how he channels his famous subjects, and so much more. This will be a fun interview, and I’m glad you’ll all be along for the ride. Join us on #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast on all video and audio platforms. Thanks for tuning in, and please invite your friends, too. @thejohnnydshow #comedian #johndidomenico #actor #impressionist #organicpodcast #artistpodcast #toppodcast #Standup #Standupcomedy
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