In the heartfelt finale of the series, Mike and Peter are joined by Peter’s wife, Sharon Marchiafava, for a powerful reflection on the stories shared in Le Zie Pt 1. Together, they revisit the enduring influence of the beloved aunts whose strength, humor, and wisdom defined their Italian-American upbringing.

As the conversation unfolds, the trio shares new anecdotes and personal insights, delving into the cultural traditions and generational legacies passed down by these remarkable women.

Don’t miss this moving tribute to the matriarchs who held it all together.

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In this reflective episode, Mike and Peter sit down with Christian Dolecki—Mike’s nephew—to unpack the stories and memories shared in the previous installment, Le Zie Pt 1. The trio dives deeper into the powerful matriarchal figures that shaped their Italian-American upbringing, with Christian offering fresh perspectives on the pivotal role of "le zie" (the aunts) in their family life.

From humorous anecdotes to heartfelt remembrances, the conversation explores themes of generational wisdom, cultural tradition, and the unique bonds forged within extended Italian-American families.

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After a year-long hiatus, the hosts of This Italian-American Life are back behind the mic with stories, laughs, and a lot of espresso-fueled energy. In this special comeback episode, the duo catches up on everything that’s happened since they last recorded—most notably, Peter got married, and Michael stood proudly by his side as best man. They share behind-the-scenes moments from the big day, reflect on what it means to be family (both by blood and by choice), and talk about how their Italian-American heritage shaped the celebration. It's a heartfelt, humorous reunion that sets the stage for a fresh season full of stories, traditions, and good conversation.

The duo will be back next week to discuss episode 019 - Le Zie and give their long awaited thoughts on that interview. Stay tuned!

On this very special 2 part episode Peter sits down with Zia Tina, Zia Maria, and his own mother Zia Giovanna to discuss life in Sicily and moving to America*. Stick around to the end cause the guys have a special section to commemorate Mother's Day.

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*Some of this interview is in Italian and not translated. Apologies but we wanted to ensure that the original context was not lost for those who do understand. In the next episode we will translate and discuss further.

On this episode of TIAL, Peter and Michael discuss children's birthday parties, wedding planning, and wedding music. They get into their favorite American classics as well as some Italian songs that will wake up the crowd. As always they end with some listener email, including a shout out from old friends and new!

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In this special episode, Peter and Mike have yet another special guest, Peter's new fiance Sharon! They discuss how the proposal went and how she feels about joining the family. The guys then discuss how their respective parents got married and the circumstances that led to their engagements. And it ends as always with the mailbag, including the first listener email not associated with the family! Quindi ascoltate!

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On this special episode of T.I.A.L., we have our first in-person guest! Joining us from our new studio in Michael's dining room, Danny di Zio Pino (aka Danny and Annie Danny) regales us with stories of growing up Marchiafava, trips to his family farm in Arizona, and the infamous donkey minivan story! Plus Peter has a special game for Michael and Danny that just might get them in trouble, so listen up!

If you have a story to share, send it over to ThisItalianAmericanLife@gmail.com

On a very special edition of This Italian-American Life, Mike brings up one of his biggest bugaboos and most hated songs, the gibberish that is Prisencolinensinainciusol by Adriano Cellentano. Listen as they break it down in all its glory. After that they go into how TV streaming has become an issue for the older generation and of course...the mailbag! So listen up!

The video to Mike's least favorite song: https://youtu.be/-VsmF9m_Nt8?si=wYH6kBaykf_mELsX