Hardcore Italians Podcast

In this episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, Mike sits down with Sal “The Voice” for one of our most fun and heartfelt conversations yet.Sal shares the unbelievable story of how he went from delivering pizzas in Queens to becoming an America’s Got Talent finalist, including the moment he flirted with Jennifer Lopez on American Idol, hit on Heidi Klum on live TV, and turned those viral moments into a 10-year career.We also get deep into Italian-American culture—why traditions matter, the difference between “sauce” and “gravy,” why Toronto and Chicago Italians keep the culture alive, and Sal’s ranking of the best Little Italys' in America.Plus, Sal opens up about family, growing up with Sinatra, how his late uncle changed his life, and why Italian-Americans sometimes feel “too Italian” for America and “too American” for Italy.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube:   ‪@hardcoreitalians‬ Instagram:     / hardcoreitalians    Facebook:    / hardcoreitalians    TikTok:     / hardcoreitalians  

Will Sasso joins Mike to talk Mad TV, building his legendary impressions, working with Chris Farley, breaking Jeremy Piven on Entourage, and stepping into the WWE ring. From Italian roots to Hollywood stories — this one’s packed.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/YouTube:    / @hardcoreitaliansInstagram:   / hardcoreitalians  Facebook:   / hardcoreitalians  TikTok:   / ucvoqb5ibakqiztabclazcra

Actress Drea de Matteo (best known as Adriana La Cerva from The Sopranos) joins us to talk about her Italian roots, growing up in Queens, and how playing Adriana became one of TV’s most iconic roles. From her family’s journey “fresh off the boat” from Naples to hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from The Sopranos, Drea opens up about embracing her Italian-American identity, the real story behind Adriana’s death scene, and her favorite memories of James Gandolfini. This episode is full of laughter, authenticity, and Italian pride.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/YouTube:    / @hardcoreitalianspodcastInstagram:   / hardcoreitalians  Facebook:   / hardcoreitalians  TikTok:   / ucvoqb5ibakqiztabclazcra

In this special episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Matteo Bocelli — singer, songwriter, and son of the legendary Andrea Bocelli. Matteo opens up about growing up in Tuscany, sharing the stage with his father, collaborating with Ed Sheeran, and the emotional moment performing at Jeff Bezos' wedding in Venice.We also talk Italian food, passion, and how love shapes both his music and identity. If you're Italian American or just love authentic, heartfelt stories — this one's for you.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Actor and comedian Daniel Franzese (best known as Damien from Mean Girls) joins us to talk about his Italian American roots, the inspiration behind Sht Italian Moms Say*, and his family’s Brooklyn-to-Florida journey. From the “psychic powers” of Italian moms to the legendary story of his great-grandfather buying an entire block, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and cultural pride.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Hollywood told her she wasn’t Italian enough… even with the name D’Angelo. In this powerful and hilarious episode, Beverly opens up about her deep Italian heritage, visiting her grandparents' town in Abruzzo, cooking with her Nona, and the real reason she never got cast in The Sopranos. From hand-cranked pasta to movie milestones, this is Beverly like you’ve never seen her before — unapologetically Italian.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

From Broadway to motherhood, Courtney Lopez shares her journey growing up Italian American, embracing Mexican-Italian family values, her Broadway roots, and the behind-the-scenes of life with Mario Lopez.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, we catch up with actor, writer, and director Joe Mazzello—best known for his iconic roles in Jurassic Park, Bohemian Rhapsody, and The Social Network. Joe reflects on growing up in the industry, working with Spielberg, embracing his Italian roots, and why he’s ready to run from dinosaurs again.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

The Esteriore Brothers join us to talk about their journey from childhood performances to becoming viral sensations keeping Italian music alive around the world. In this episode, they share what it means to stay true to your roots, the power of family, and how passion and positivity fuel everything they do.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Actor, writer, and director Ronnie Marmo joins us to talk about his powerful one-man show “I’m Not a Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce”, what it’s like working with Joe Mantegna, and his deep connection to storytelling and Italian-American identity. Ronnie opens up about his roots, the grind of staying independent in the industry, and why Lenny Bruce’s story still matters today. With humor, heart, and a little tough love, this episode is a must-listen for creatives chasing their passion.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Actress Kathrine Narducci (The Sopranos, A Bronx Tale, Godfather of Harlem) joins Mike for a rich, unfiltered conversation on loyalty, legacy, and life in film. From behind-the-scenes stories with Robert De Niro to her thoughts on mob movies, Italian heritage, and giving back in Hollywood, Kathrine brings heart and humor to every moment. Plus, we talk Chicago vs. Toronto Italians, deep dish pizza, upcoming collaborations, and her passion for preserving culture through connection.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

In this episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, we sit down with Robert Funaro, best known for playing Eugene Pontecorvo on The Sopranos. Robert shares behind-the-scenes stories from the iconic show, his friendship with James Gandolfini, and how his love for Italian cooking led to his new cookbook, Homemade.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians

Actor, writer, and director Ronnie Marmo joins us to talk about his powerful one-man show “I’m Not a Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce”, what it’s like working with Joe Mantegna, and his deep connection to storytelling and Italian-American identity. Ronnie opens up about his roots, the grind of staying independent in the industry, and why Lenny Bruce’s story still matters today. With humor, heart, and a little tough love, this episode is a must-listen for creatives chasing their passion.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

In this episode of the Hardcore Italians Podcast, we sit down with Steve Schirripa, best known for playing Bobby Baccalieri on The Sopranos. Steve shares behind-the-scenes stories from the iconic show, insights into his roles on Blue Bloods, and his journey into writing – including his new children’s book inspired by his dog, Willie Boy.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCvoqb5IBaKqiZTabCLAZcRA

Join host Mike as he sits down with guest Mike Gentile! Dive into candid and unfiltered mob stories, family ties, and hilarious behind-the-scenes escapades from the streets of Chicago. In their signature double-Mike style, they share raw tales of loyalty, risk, and the unforgettable life of being “mob adjacent.” Whether you’re a true crime buff or just love a good story, this conversation is packed with history, humor, and heart. Subscribe now for a unique journey into a world where every secret has a story!

This episode features actor and filmmaker Gino Cafarelli as he sits down with Mike to talk about his career and life in the entertainment industry.Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardcoreItaliansTV?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansFacebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitaliansFollow Mike, the owner of Hardcore Italians:https://www.instagram.com/mikecarioscia

In today’s episode, I sit down with comedian Mike Marino and TheNumba1Guido, to dive into all things Italian – from favourite dishes and family traditions to the humor and pride that come with Italian culture. We chat about growing up Italian, how it’s influenced their comedy, and the excitement around their upcoming show together on November 16. Filled with laughs, insights, and a lot of Italian spirit, this episode is one for anyone who loves good food and great stories!Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a like, and drop a comment! Be sure to follow Hardcore Italians on all platforms as well! 👇🏻Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/hardcoreitalians?igsh=MTNjaHI1aXBsNWdubA==Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/HardcoreItalians/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardcoreitalians?_t=8qAm41PNWBZ&_r=1Follow Mike, the owner of Hardcore Italians:https://www.instagram.com/mikecarioscia?igsh=YnplbHZzdHBrbjVsFollow our guests on Instagram: Mike Marino: https://www.instagram.com/mikemarinolive?igsh=MXFiMGh0eDk2YnMxaA== Numba1Guido: https://www.instagram.com/thenumba1guido?igsh=cTV2Mm1mbG15dHFh

In this episode, Mike sits down with Tony Ocean, a talented performer with a career that spans decades. Born in Italy and raised in Chicago, Tony has performed across the U.S., known for his incredible voice and energetic shows. He’s fronted several bands, done impersonations of Dean Martin, and is a well-loved figure in the music world. With a mix of old-school classics and modern projects, Tony continues to entertain audiences everywhere. Tune in to learn more about his journey and love for music!

Thanks for checking out this interview with John Vincent! John is the residentNational Anthem singer for the Chicago Cubs, known for his unforgettable performances,including his iconic Game 4 rendition during the 2016 World Series, which was praised byLady Gaga. He’s also renowned for his covers of legends like Frank Sinatra, Louis B.Armstrong, and Johnny Cash, with performances at major venues like The House of Bluesand Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Beyond music, John is deeply involved in anti-bullyingadvocacy, speaking to students across the country since 2018. We hope you enjoy thisinspiring conversation!

Tony Pec, often referred to as "The Godfather of Instagram," is the co-founder of Y Not You Media, a prominent New York-based social media attention agency. Known for his expertise in helping businesses and personal brands expand their reach, Tony's agency specializes in unique content creation, branding strategy, influencer marketing, and targeted ad campaigns. In our podcast episode, we dive into his insights on marketing, the importance of organic social media content, and his experiences growing up Italian, blending personal heritage with professional success. Hope you enjoy the interview!Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansBlog: https://hardcoreitalians.blog/

Check out this exclusive interview with Ron Onesti, conducted by Mike, the owner of Hardcore Italians. They dive into the significance of Columbus Day and its importance in Italian-American culture. Ron Onesti, a renowned event producer and president of the Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, shares his thoughts on preserving heritage and traditions. Don't miss this insightful conversation about a key topic in the Italian-American community!

Sitting down with Anthony Iannone, the Owner of the Culinary Pizza Academy in Lisle, Illinois to discuss all things pizza.Timeline00:00 - Introduction00:37 - Background02:50 - About La Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli04:40 - Common Mistakes Made While Making Pizza05:55 - Anthony's Relationship With Italy08:05 - Anthony's Favorite Pizza To Make (and Eat!)09:45 - Thoughts on Deep Dish Pizza12:39 - Why Your Water System Matters When Making Dough15:10 - Debating Pineapple On Pizza18:09 - What It Means To Anthony To Be A Chef19:45 - What's Next For Anthony & THe Pizza & Culinary Academy24:00 - Outro

NIAF President Robert Allegrini sheds light on his accolades.Become a member of the National Italian American Foundation and support the important work NIAF does in our community today: https://www.niaf.org/membership/become-a-niaf-member/Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com

Founder and CEO of Flipfork spills his secrets to sucess.Buy the FlipFork - https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/products/flipforkShop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansBlog: https://hardcoreitalians.blog/

Chicago Italian-American brand Bianco Profumo reveals what it's like building a brand from scratch.Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansBlog: https://hardcoreitalians.blog/

Ron spills on the potenial name change of Columbus Day.Links:Columbus Drive - https://hardcoreitalians.blog/2024/03/26/chicago-italians-outraged-over-proposal-to-rename-columbus-drive/Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com

Ficara spills on working with Hardcore Italians.Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansBlog: https://hardcoreitalians.blog/

After over 30 years, the Italian Airforce (Frecce Tricolori) will make its' way to America!Links:JCCIA- https://www.jccia.com/Frecce Tricolori - http://thisisflight.net/team-directory/frecce-tricolori/Queen Pageant - https://www.jccia.com/columbus-day-queen-pageantShop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com

Ron shares what our community can do to save Columbus' legacyLinks:JCCIA- https://www.jccia.com/Columbus Day Petition - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesySRCTvE1yJsNjXFk_MNy3Sl80arPI1RWapHENFI_vldbKA/viewform Zucchero Show Tickets - https://desplainestheatre.com/events/copernicus-center-zucchero-overdose-damore-world-tour/Shop Merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com

Ron Onesti comes back to the studio to give some updates around the Italian community. 

Mike Carioscia, Bella Martirano, and Gianna Dimperio discuss 10 Harmless Habits Italian Moms Warn You About!

Mike Carioscia, Bella Martirano, and Gianna Dimperio discuss behind the scenes of Hardcore Italians!

We had a great interview with Tommy DeVito's agent, Sean Stellato. Sean discusses with Hardcore Italians Owner, Mike Carioscia, how his life has been since going viral. He also talks about Payton Manning's comments, his Italian heritage, and more. 

Join us for a captivating conversation as we delve into the world of Italian-American culture with Guisy G, a TikTok sensation with over 40,000 followers. Born in Sicily, Guisy G now calls Michigan home. Discover her journey, experiences, and how she celebrates her Italian heritage.

The Hardcore team recaps 2022 and talks about goals for 2023!

Giana, Joe, and Steve talk about what it's like during the holiday season!

Two new voices enter today's podcast. The first is Justin, Hardcore Italians social media manager. The second is Steve Rinaldi, a notorious stand-up comedian from Philly. Listen as we discuss some social media struggles, funny stories about how Italians tip, and more. 

On today's Hardcore Italians Show, Mike Carioscia, Joe Faccone, and Giana Carli discuss things Italians fight about, Italian communities, and all things pizza!Check out Hardcore Italians store: http://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansTopics0:00 Intro0:14 Things Italians Fight About14:52 Italian Communities22:43 Win A Trip To Italy32:12 Best Pizza Toppings48:08 Best Pizza Places55:37 Confusing The Cornicello

On today's Hardcore Italians Show, Mike Carioscia, Joe Faccone, and Giana Carli go over what it's like dating an Italian girl, having an Italian mom, and more.Check out Hardcore Italians store: http://www.hardcoreitalians.comFollow Hardcore Italians here:Facebook: https://facebook.com/hardcoreitaliansInstagram: http://instagram.com/hardcoreitaliansTwitter: https://twitter.com/hardcoreitaliansTopics0:00 Intro0:03 Dating Italian Girls8:05 How To Piss Italians Off12:48 Moms In The Kitchen15:43 Stand-Up Comedians21:11 Things Italians Can't Do As Kids28:49 Italian Moms When Moving Out

Joe Cortese is an Italian-American actor who had major roles in films such as Windows, Evilspeak, and Monsignor. 

Vincenzo Prosperi, better known as Vincenzo's Plate, is a YouTube Cooking Channel with a focus on cooking Italian Food.  Vincenzo joins the podcast to talk about his mission and food knowledge.

Tammy Pescatelli is a veteran professional Italian-American stand-up comedian. Tammy talks about the comedy industry, her career, and family life!

Drena is an Actress, Producer, and Documentary Filmmaker. She is the daughter of Diahnne Abbott and the adoptive daughter of Robert De Niro. She joins the show to discuss her career work and upcoming projects!

Stand-up Comedian, Podcast Host, and Television Personality Jessimae Peluso joins the show to discuss her career. Jessimae truly has a unique life story and we really think you guys will enjoy this one a lot!

Legendary Lightweight Champion Italian-American Boxer Ray Mancini joins the show to discuss his life. We learn about his childhood, family life growing up, and family life now. He also gives his take on the popular Jake Paul boxing events.

Singer, Songwriter, Actor, and "Pasta Eater" Dante Palminteri joins the show and talks about his career. He also discusses his Italian upbringing and family life, including what it's like having Chazz Palminteri as his father.

Italian-Australian Standup comedian Joe Avati joins the show and talks about his 25-Year long comedy career.