Explore every episode of the podcast Hardcore Italians Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drea de Matteo on The Sopranos, Adriana’s Death, and Being Proudly Italian | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:49:04 | |
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. YouTube: / @hardcoreitalianspodcast | |||
| Matteo Bocelli Talks Italian Roots, Ed Sheeran, & Performing with His Dad at the Oscars | 11 Oct 2025 | 00:24:12 | |
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. | |||
| Buddy Valastro on Baking, Business, and Family | 20 Sep 2025 | 00:43:52 | |
Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/ | |||
| Joe Gatto Talks Comedy, Family, and Italian Pride | 18 Sep 2025 | 00:19:38 | |
Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/ | |||
| Jerry Ferrara Talks Entourage, Family, and Italian Roots | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:03:32 | |
Shop merch: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/ | |||
| Ronnie Marmo Talks General Hospital, Joe Mantegna, and Becoming Comedy Icon Lenny Bruce | 13 Sep 2025 | 00:34:50 | |
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. | |||
| Behind the Scenes with Steve Schirripa: From The Sopranos to Blue Bloods & Beyond! | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:56:58 | |
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. | |||
| Mike Gentile: Inside Chicago's Mob Chronicles | 15 Apr 2025 | 01:11:28 | |
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! | |||
| Gino Cafarelli on Hollywood’s Portrayal of Italian-Americans | 22 Dec 2024 | 00:52:00 | |
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. | |||
| Mike Marino on Making America Italian Again & TheNumba1Guido on Respecting the Schmear! | 01 Nov 2024 | 00:42:31 | |
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! | |||
| Tony Ocean: The Voice Keeping Classic Music Alive | 13 Oct 2024 | 00:32:50 | |
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! | |||
| Columbus Day and Its Importance to the Italian-American Community | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:41:04 | |
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! | |||
| Daniel Franzese on Italian Moms, Macaroni Rascals & Growing Up Italian American | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:42:48 | |
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. | |||
| Meet John Vincent: The Voice Behind the Cubs’ National Anthem! | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:51:08 | |
Thanks for checking out this interview with John Vincent! John is the resident | |||
| The Godfather of Instagram Tony Pec Talks Italian Heritage, Social Media Success, and more! | 10 Oct 2024 | 00:42:38 | |
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! | |||
| Talking Pizza with a Master Pizza-Maker | 18 Aug 2024 | 00:25:22 | |
Sitting down with Anthony Iannone, the Owner of the Culinary Pizza Academy in Lisle, Illinois to discuss all things pizza. | |||
| Meet the President of the National Italian American Foundation! | 04 Aug 2024 | 00:27:35 | |
NIAF President Robert Allegrini sheds light on his accolades. | |||
| Secrets of Hardcore Italians & Starting a Cigar Business with Our Consultant | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:27:31 | |
Ficara spills on working with Hardcore Italians. | |||
| The New Luxury Italian Fragrance Brand To Wear Every Day | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:32:42 | |
Chicago Italian-American brand Bianco Profumo reveals what it's like building a brand from scratch. | |||
| Italian Jets Return After 30 Years! | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:23:28 | |
After over 30 years, the Italian Airforce (Frecce Tricolori) will make its' way to America! | |||
| The Best Grilling Tool You'll Ever Use In Your Life | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:36:39 | |
Founder and CEO of Flipfork spills his secrets to sucess. | |||
| This Will Help SAVE Columbus Day | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:27:52 | |
Ron shares what our community can do to save Columbus' legacy | |||
| He ENDED This Name Change | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:39:11 | |
Ron spills on the potenial name change of Columbus Day. | |||
| “They Told Me I Wasn’t Italian Enough” – Beverly D’Angelo Gets REAL About Her Roots | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:32:00 | |
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. | |||
| Meatballs Aren't Italian?! | 17 Mar 2024 | 00:34:45 | |
Ron Onesti comes back to the studio to give some updates around the Italian community. | |||
| She Breaks Her Pasta In Half?! | 10 Mar 2024 | 00:27:39 | |
Mike Carioscia, Bella Martirano, and Gianna Dimperio discuss 10 Harmless Habits Italian Moms Warn You About! | |||
| His Grandpa Got An Orange For Christmas | 03 Mar 2024 | 00:30:57 | |
Mike Carioscia, Bella Martirano, and Gianna Dimperio discuss behind the scenes of Hardcore Italians! | |||
| Ep 36 - Sean Stellato (Tommy DeVito's Agent) | 16 Dec 2023 | 00:30:44 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 35 - Sicily to the USA: Guisy G's Italian-American Experience | 23 Oct 2023 | 00:55:17 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 33 - Buon Anno | 22 Jan 2023 | 00:55:17 | |
The Hardcore team recaps 2022 and talks about goals for 2023! | |||
| Ep 32 - Italian Thanksgiving and Christmas | 22 Dec 2022 | 00:50:57 | |
Giana, Joe, and Steve talk about what it's like during the holiday season! | |||
| Ep 31 - How Italians Comment, Tip, Joke, and Eat! | 30 Oct 2022 | 01:07:48 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 30 - Things Italians Fight About, Communities, & Pizza | 18 Sep 2022 | 00:59:20 | |
On today's Hardcore Italians Show, Mike Carioscia, Joe Faccone, and Giana Carli discuss things Italians fight about, Italian communities, and all things pizza! | |||
| Ep 29 - Dating Italian Girls, How To Survive | 12 Sep 2022 | 00:40:34 | |
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. | |||
| Family, Fame, and Faith: A Conversation with Courtney Lopez | 04 Oct 2025 | 00:32:07 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 28 - Joe Cortese Interview | 26 Jun 2022 | 00:38:20 | |
Joe Cortese is an Italian-American actor who had major roles in films such as Windows, Evilspeak, and Monsignor. | |||
| Ep 27 - Discussing Italian Food - Vincenzo's Plate Interview | 19 Jun 2022 | 00:51:29 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 26 - Italian Stand Up Comedy - Tammy Pescatelli Interview | 03 Apr 2022 | 00:47:00 | |
Tammy Pescatelli is a veteran professional Italian-American stand-up comedian. Tammy talks about the comedy industry, her career, and family life! | |||
| Ep 25 - Drena De Niro Interview | 13 Mar 2022 | 00:37:31 | |
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! | |||
| Ep 24 - Tattoo Redo, Comedy, and Dealing With Dad's Alzheimers - Jessimae Peluso Interview | 06 Mar 2022 | 00:56:02 | |
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! | |||
| Ep 23 - Being A Campion, Ohio, and New Age Boxing - Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini Interview | 06 Feb 2022 | 00:52:21 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 22 - Music, Family, and Humbleness - Dante Palminteri Interview | 14 Nov 2021 | 00:58:14 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 21 - Australian Stand Up Comedy - Joe Avati Interview | 07 Nov 2021 | 00:58:04 | |
Italian-Australian Standup comedian Joe Avati joins the show and talks about his 25-Year long comedy career. | |||
| Ep 20 - Rocky Movies - Frank Stallone Interview | 24 Oct 2021 | 00:58:32 | |
Actor, singer, songwriter, and guitarist Frank Stallone joins the show and talks about the entertainment industry. We discuss his relationship with Slyvester Stallone and how the Rocky movies were made. Frank also discusses his other films, music, childhood, and his Italian background. | |||
| Ep 19 - Sooshi Mango Interview | 10 Oct 2021 | 01:01:45 | |
Italian-Australian comedy group joins the show and talks about their career in comedy. They discuss the Italian lifestyle in Australia and we compare it to the United States and Canada. They also give us some insight on how to be successful in social media. | |||
| From Jurassic to Italy: A Sit-Down with Joe Mazzello | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:53:18 | |
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. | |||
| Ep 18 - Risk, Passion, and Italian Food - David Rocco Interview | 27 Sep 2021 | 00:44:53 | |
David Rocco is a Canadian TV Show Host, Author, Cook, and Restaurant Owner that specializes in delicious Italian food. We discuss his passion for Italian food and the risks he took to make his passion his career. He gives some insight on how to be successful, advice for young kids, and his no-excuses approach to life. | |||
| Ep 17 - Canadian Stand Up Comedy - Giuseppe The MC Interview | 23 Sep 2021 | 00:58:17 | |
Stand-up comedian and social media personality Giuseppe the MC joins the show and talks about his career in entertainment. We talk about his Calabrese background and how he uses his family experiences and turns them into laughs everyone can enjoy. | |||
| Ep 16 - Brothers From Brooklyn Interview | 06 Sep 2021 | 00:43:13 | |
Brothers From Brooklyn Instagram page owners Anthony and Jerry join the podcast and talk about what it is like to run their page. We discuss making videos and posts and how they achieved follower growth on social media. | |||
| Ep 15 - Italy Travel, Sex Life, and Retirement - Lisa Ann Interview | 29 Aug 2021 | 00:53:48 | |
Famous Adult Entertainer and Podcaster Lisa Ann joins the show and talks about her love for Italy. We discuss how to get the best food in Italy and why she may move there one day. She also shares some funny behind-the-scenes stories and myths about her career in porn. | |||