We are thrilled to feature Lauren Braun-Strumfels, the brilliant author of “Partners in Gatekeeping,” who shares her fascinating journey into Italian culture and immigration. Together, we uncover the allure and complexity of Italian culture, drawing parallels to Lauren’s personal experiences and discussing cultural obsessions that shape our lives. From Arthur Schwartz’s Neapolitan cooking to Jhumpa Lahiri’s insights, this conversation is rich with reflections on the continuous pull towards understanding and integrating with Italian heritage. Our episode takes a deep dive into the history of Italian American communities in the American South, particularly New Orleans.

Discover the significant role of port cities in Italian migration and the challenges faced by immigrants as they navigated socio-political dynamics and racial tensions. We also touch on the Italian government’s efforts in managing immigration and maintaining cultural connections for Italian children born abroad. Through historical narratives and personal reflections, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the Italian American experience and the enduring impact of Italian culture on both sides of the Atlantic.