In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino speaks with Maria Teresa Quaranta about her Italian heritage, family roots, and the importance of preserving Italian culture in America. They discuss Maria Teresa’s family history, her experiences growing up in an Italian enclave, and her travels to Italy. The conversation also touches on the significance of Italian cuisine, language, and traditions, as well as Maria’s efforts to teach Italian heritage to future generations through her business and bilingual book.
Maria Teresa identifies mainly with being from Campania.
- Her great-grandmother shared stories of her immigration journey.
- Maria wishes she had learned the Napolitan dialect from her grandfather.
- Arthur Avenue is a true representation of Italian craftsmanship.
- Maria travels to Italy frequently, connecting with her roots.
- Her grandfather’s town is known for one of Italy’s top wines.
- She didn’t grow up on typical Italian-American dishes.
- Maria emphasizes the importance of preserving Italian culture in America.
- She wrote a bilingual financial literacy book for children.
- Her grandfather instilled in her the pride of being Italian.
Video
Podcast
Introduce your child to the exciting world of languages and financial literacy with *Bilingual Adventures: Learning Italian and Money Skills.”. This unique children’s book combines the magic of storytelling with practical lessons in both Italian and money management, providing a fun and educational experience for young readers.
Join our charming character, Mariiii, as she embark on various adventures that teach essential Italian vocabulary and basic money concepts. From visiting the market to setting up a lemonade stand, each story is designed to engage children and make learning enjoyable.

Uncovering Italian Roots in Calabria and Campania
In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Lisa Gagliardo about her Italian roots and family history. Lisa shares her family’s immigration story, cultural traditions, and the challenges faced by her ancestors. The discussion highlights the importance of ancestry research and the connection to Italian heritage, as well as the experiences of growing up Italian American. Lisa reflects on her discoveries and aspirations to visit her family’s hometown in Italy, emphasizing the significance of maintaining cultural identity

Researching Lettere Campania
Fascinating interview with attorney and author Michael Fattorosi on how a rainy day in Positano led to his uncovering his ancestors in Lettere Campania. Michael has done extensive research and has copied thousands of records from Lettere that he plans to release to the public. Check out his site archiviodilettere.com. And don’t forget the Book Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Researching Campania and Calabria
Jean Telljohann talks about her family roots from Campania and Calabria and her recent trip to Italy Jean mentions a great online seminar offered by the NYG&B. Check is out here.https://www.newyorkfamilyhistory.org/events/finding-la-famiglia Visit Our Shop Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Researching Marcianise Campania
Fred Russo talks about how his dad born in the USA but returned to Italy with his mother when his father passed away. Only to come back at 15 by himself to work on his uncle’s farm. Visit Our Shop Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Researching San Cipriano SA Campania
Visit Our Shop Bill Sallurday talks about his decades long research to find his paternal grandfather’s real surname. Bill’s journey starts in Pennsylvania and finally takes him to San Cipriano. Also, a great Mayflower story from his mom’s side. Be sure to check out Bill’s website The Wandering Spectator Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video

Campania Research — Sant’Angelo all’ Esca
Paul Trahan is a High School teacher in the Boston Ma. area who started his research just recently. Paul talks about finding his family in Campania and his Acadian family from Nova Scotia. Paul is starting a genealogy class for his students this coming year, which sounds like a lot of fun. Find it on the map. My grandfather Antonio Lepore Wedding picture of my grandparents – Married on December 31, 1930 in Boston. Great

