Italians Sicilians Do It Better Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Frank Diesel

Four Sicilians from Queens New York! Two brothers, & life time friends all first generation, all brought up the same. We bring EVERYTHING to table, from cooking to stories, to comedy, philosophy (pretty much anything we think and do) to bring you into our world. Sit back and have fun with us!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/italians-sicilians-do-it-better-podcast--5871137/support.

Ep. 50 - Old School Fun, New School Problems (and a Lot of Laughs)
#50
04/29/2025

We sit down with Anthony LaFranca from Sapori di Sicilia for a lively conversation full of laughs, memories, and a few debates. We look back at the good old days of family events and how times have changed, and Anthony gives us the inside scoop on the latest authentic Sicilian foods and desserts he's bringing in. Plus, Marcus opens up about a major life-changing experience you won’t want to miss. Tune in for stories, updates, and plenty of good vibes!

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Ep. 49 - Italian Roots & Big Moves: How Two Brothers Built Concrete Jungle
#49
04/15/2025

In this episode, we sit down with John and Dominick Pedone — two entrepreneurial brothers from Glendale, Queens, who turned their humble beginnings in a local deli into a thriving real estate business, Concrete Jungle. From hustling truck routes to building a successful company, the Pedone brothers share their journey, lessons learned, and the deep roots of their Italian-American upbringing. We talk success, sacrifice, and the strong bond of family and community — with plenty of laughs and stories from growing up in the neighborhood. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build something real from the ground up, this one’s...


Ep. 48 - Laughing Through the Past and Present
#48
04/01/2025

Frank's cousin Mike joining the episode we dive into some current events and take a trip down memory lane, sharing stories of how we grew up the old-school way. We reflect on past experiences, and, of course, share plenty of laughs along the way. Don’t miss it!



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Ep. 47- BROO It's Nicole Greco Peepas!!
#47
03/18/2025

Join us as we sit down with Nicole Greco-Peepas, a powerhouse in the fitness industry, entrepreneur, and celebrity trainer. As the CEO of NGP Method, Nicole has helped countless people transform their lives through her innovative at-home fitness challenges. She’s also known for training stars, including appearances on The Real Housewives of New Jersey! But her impact goes beyond fitness—Nicole is a dedicated philanthropist, co-founding Friends of the ā€˜Well, a nonprofit supporting families in need. In this episode, she shares her journey, expert tips, and the mindset that keeps her and her clients pushing forward.

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Ep. 46 - What Really Makes You Italian? We Argue It Out
#46
03/04/2025

Things got heated in this episode as Angelo joins us to debate one of the most controversial topics in Italian culture: What makes you a fake Italian? šŸ‡®šŸ‡¹āŒ And what earns you the title of a real Italian? šŸ‡®šŸ‡¹āœ… From food crimes (yes, we’re looking at you, Alfredo sauce lovers) to how you say ā€œmozzarella,ā€ our team argues it out with strong opinions, hilarious takes, and maybe even some hurt feelings. Are you guilty of fake Italian behavior? Tune in and find out!

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Ep. 45 - Rossella Rago: Keeping Italian Traditions Alive, one Recipe at a Time!
#45
02/18/2025

We're sitting down with the incredible Rossella Rago, the host of Cooking with Nonna and a true ambassador of Italian American culture! From sharing timeless family recipes with our Nonna's to keeping traditions alive for the next generation, Rossella has built a community that celebrates food, family, and heritage. Get ready for a conversation filled with nostalgia, delicious stories, and plenty of laughs! Tune in tomorrow to Italians Sicilians Do It Better - you wont want to miss this one!

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Ep. 44 - Throwback Talk: 90s, 2000s vs. Today + Trivia Challenge!
#44
02/04/2025

Get ready for a nostalgia-packed episode as Frank, Gee, Marcus, Sal, and Angelo take a trip down memory lane to the 90s and early 2000s! From how things changed growing up to how things have changed today, the crew shares laughs and memories that’ll have you reminiscing. To top it all off, Gee challenges everyone with a trivia quiz to test their knowledge—will they pass or fail? Tune in for a fun, lighthearted throwback session!


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Ep. 43 - Tara (Jokes) Cannistraci
#43
01/21/2025

Tara Cannistraci, affectionately known as ā€œTara Jokesā€ or the ā€œBronx Barbie,ā€ is a dynamic stand-up comedian born and raised in the Bronx, NY. With her quick wit, humor, and larger-than-life personality, Tara brings authentic Bronx flavor to the comedy scene. Her comedy draws from her Italian-American heritage, NYC upbringing, and sharp observations of everyday life, making her a relatable yet unforgettable act. Whether she’s lighting up stages or connecting with fans, Tara embodies the spirit of a true Bronx native with a flair for making people laugh.

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Ep. 42 - I want to know who knows more!
#42
01/07/2025

On this episode we discuss some life events as we grew up & we learned Marcus held more jobs and Frank & Gee also the guys know how to get on his nerves. Frank also surprises the guys with a quiz on who know more about food, Marcus or Gee. You have to hear their response.

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Ep. 41 - Buona Natale!!!
#41
12/17/2024

Frank, Gee & Marcus Sit down and discuss the holiday times on how they have changed & what there traditions where like, Marcus never heard of La Befana thinks we are making it up! Get ready for some laughs with the crew.

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Ep. 40 - Jazzy Italian Vanessa Racci
#40
12/03/2024

Vanessa grew up in a blue collar Italian American household in Thornwood, N.Y., living with her grandfather. Where they both enjoyed listening & singing to Italian & Jazz music since the age of 4. Vanessa continues to show her passion in music which she shares with the world! In 2017 she reached #65 on the jazz charts! In 2022 as her music is now played on the radio in addition to 150+ station making it to the top 10 Traditional Jazz on the RMR charts. Make sure to tune in and listen to her story.

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Ep. 39 - Conversations of the past & current
#39
11/19/2024

The guys sit down and talk about the old days & agree to disagree with a few topics. Gee give us a dessert pop quiz! You wont believe what they choose for their top 5! Tune in for some laughs....Ā 

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Ep. 38 - Joe Avati Returns to New York!
#38
11/05/2024

Joe Avati is back with round 2 of his Comedy Tour! He talks about last year tour & give us an update where he's been all around the world bringing laugher.. Make sure to tune on some laughs! Check out his upcoming shows as JoeAvati.com

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Ep. 37 - Johnny Potenza
#37
10/22/2024

Johnny Potenza, born in Brooklyn & raised in Staten Island, joins us on this episode! Gives us his story growing up & how he pursued being a musician, TV producer & he doesn't like to admit it but yes he was in some movie roles! Now coming soon his new podcast "Breaking Balls"

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Ep. 36 - The Fella's Just Catch Up With One Another!
#36
10/08/2024

Frank, Gee & Marcus just catch up on things have a couple of laugh on being themselves. Enza from Enza's in the kitchen get on also to talks about some types food & styles!

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Ep. 35- Gino Cafarelli
#35
09/24/2024

Gino Cafarelli is an actor, filmmaker, & author. Born & Raised in Queens, N.Y.Ā  Some of his most recently hits "TERRIFIER" & "TERRIFIER 2", HULU's Emmy Nominated 'PAM & TOMMY", in SEASON 2 of "GODFATHER OF HARLEM!Ā 

Lets not forget September 27th Season 1 "HIT YOUR MARK Series" comes out on YouTube! Starting Gino Cafarelli, Jeremy Luke, Lorenzo Antonucci , Kelly-Ann Tursi, & Lisa Lampanelli.

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Ep. 34 - Anthony LaFranca - Sapori Di Sicilia Imports
#34
09/10/2024

Anthony LaFranca owner of "Sapori Di Sicilia Imports" joins us on this episode! from Cannoli's to Coffee & Olive Oil to Riceballs, he import everything direct from Sicily, giving us a true taste of our roots here in the U.S! Make sure to check him out on his social media at Sapori Di Sicilia or visit his website SaporiDiSiciliaImports.com

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Ep. 33 - Sara Elia (L' Italia Festival)
#33
08/27/2024

That's right, Italians Sicilians Do it Better will be part of The 3rd Annual Italian Festival this September 21st in Little Spring Park, 24 N Board ST, Lititz Pennsylvania!! Chef Sara Elia comes by the studio to talk about the growth of this festival! Which started as a simple picnic but over 5,000 people showed up! The following year it grew to 13,000 people!! This year we are expecting 15-20,000 people that come from all over the country! So much food, crafts & activities! Come join us in this amazing experience!! Shhhhhh....and Chef Sara has a surprise announcement she going to share with...


Ep. 32 - Mario's Meats & Gourmet Deli
#32
08/13/2024

Joe & Artie stop by & tells us how all this got started! From when the butcher opened to when it expanded and now it has become one of the largest social media influencers in New York that share their stories through skits! Make sure to tune in for some great laughs! Mario's Meats & Gourmet Deli located at 7553 Metropolitan Avenue Middle Village NY 11379

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Ep. 31 - Famiglia Feud!
07/30/2024

The guys catch up on what's been going on in their lives & decide to play a quiz game. Listen in & see if your knowledge is just as good as theirs! Who knows, you may learn something while your laughing!

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Ep. 30 - Rita from Cucina Palermo
#30
07/16/2024

Rita from Cucina Palermo is talking with the crew about her old school Sicilian cooking. From her Spaghettata to Arancine to Tiramisu!!! She talks about how it all began. Make sure to give this one a listen as Enza from Enza's in the kitchen sits in on this episode also!

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Ep. 29 - The Burrata Babe
#29
07/02/2024

Denise born & raised in Brooklyn New York, joins us in the studio & tells us how she became "The Burrata Babe". from enjoying food or nights out with friends & as simply enjoying her family time. I can tell you she is truly one of a kind! Make sure to tune in on this episode! & if you are not already make sure to give her a follow on social media @TheBurrataBabe

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Ep. 28 - "Goumba Johnny" John Sialiano Joins us on this Episode!
#28
06/18/2024

ā€œGoumba Johnny ā€ John Sialiano a comedian, actor, writer, New York's KTU radio host & athlete who played for both the New York Jets and New York Giants. Joins us in the studio & tell us how it all began!Ā 

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Ep. 27 - The Uncle Louie Variety Show!
#27
06/04/2024

Louie and Carlo join us in the studio for this episode! Get ready for some laughs as these two guys are true entertainers. From making skits on social media to getting on stage and putting on a show & making MUSIC!! Having people laugh isn't just the only thing they bring to the table, but also a real meaning on being authentic & passionate to what they do for their fans is unbelievable. Make sure to check out their website on upcoming shows at www.TheUncleLouieVarietyShow.com

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Ep. 26 -The New Jersey's Bad Boy Mike Marino stops by the studio!
#26
05/21/2024

Mike Marino tells us how this all started from growing up with an Italian family and the inspiration that gave him passion. We learn about how Mike wanted to be an actor and how he got there, but when he touches that microphone on stage as a comedian the stars just align. The big names he tours with & the laugher he gives us, he is a man of talent!

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Ep. 25 - Sabino Curcio Stops By The Studio!
#25
05/07/2024

Sabino joins us from Williamsburg in Brooklyn as we talk about it all! From Podcasting to food & everything in between! Join us & have a few laughs as we get to know the man behind "Growing up Italians"

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Ep. 24 - Anthony Rodia
#24
04/23/2024

Anthony Rodia, the New York comic, joins the guys with our special co-host Salzo. As a young child being the center of attention with his family and friends, he made his way onto stage. From content creator to performer his comedy has made thousands laugh with his everyday life stories. Watch him at a stage near you!

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Ep. 23 - Big Joe Gambino
#23
04/09/2024

Come meet our friend Joe from Astoria Queens. To what started as a small video on social media, Joe began to blow up in his journey of what he loves... acting!. From commercials to the big screens, Joe tells us his beginnings....

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Ep. 22 - Eric D'Alessandro!
#20
03/26/2024

Eric D'Alessandro joins us on the podcast! He tells us of his comedic beginnings and some of his current projects that will have you rolling! come and listen & have a few laughs with us!

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Ep. 21 - Anthony Demonte of "Defontes" Famous Brooklyn Sandwich Shop!
#21
03/12/2024

Anthony joins the crew from Redhook Brooklyn from his famous sandwich shop Defontes! Come listen in on Anthony's success.

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Ep. 20 - Rocco the Comedian
#20
02/27/2024

Rocco joins and shares his stories about his life and his beginnings! Hear all about his inspirations for the voice behind the camera and who knows maybe you have a parent just like his! Rocco's upcoming show is on March 23rd in Whitestone, NY, get your tickets now! (Check out Rocco the comedian social media for more details)

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Ep. 19 - Someone's cookin' something good!
#19
02/13/2024

Valentine's day special: Mariarosa brought together some of the best cooks she knows, Pina & Rosamaria from "Pina's Kitchen" & her mom "Enza"

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Ep. 18 - Bespoke Citizenship! Dr. Roz meets the crew!
#18
01/30/2024

Dr. Roz Maiorino from Be Spoken Citizenship joined us all the way from Colorado to share with us how she can help American Italians looking to become an Italian citizen! Come listen, & let her be your resource in getting your Italian passport!

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The crew meets Sooshi Mango
01/16/2024

Sooshi Mango brings their comedy all the way from Australia to New York! Tune in and laugh with us!

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Ep. 17 - Maria & Concetta "The Venuto Sisters" Join us in the studio!
#17
01/02/2024

Maria & Concetta join us on set & talk about the good times. They bring up how singing career started & their Sicilian culture. As aways we end it with good laughs.

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Ep. 16 - Marcello DiGergorio
#16
12/19/2023

A special guest stops by the studio to give us best Christmas gift ever! This little man comes in an adorable package and belts out the classics we all know and love without a hitch. As seen on Good Morning America, The Drew Barrymore Show. The bright future of Italian-America! We present Marcello DiGregorio!

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Ep. 15 - Breaking Traditions
#15
12/12/2023

Marco found his way to Florida to hang out with Gee & is in the studio together! The guys discuss Gee's viral video about Panettone / Pandoro and delve into traditions we, as first generation Italian-Americans, Still follow or have broken.

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Ep. 14 - Welcome Mariarosa to the TEAM!
#14
11/28/2023

The guy welcome a new addition to the crew, Mariarisa! She is passionate about cooking, and brings a lot to the table with the guys in sharing the Sicilian culture, as well as theri humor. This is going to be a great ride with great things to come!

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Happy Thanksgiving A TUTTI!!
11/21/2023

The guys discuss their Thanksgiving traditions & what they like most about it including, of course, the food & more!

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Ep. 13 - Anthony of Casa Nino's & Peter of Panini Grill
#13
11/14/2023

Two of Staten Island best restaurant owners and entrepreneurs, Anthony of Casa Nino's Pizza Bar & Peter of Panini Grill, join the boys at the studio! Listen to their humble beginnings and see what it takes to run an Italian restaurant.

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