Long before Grand Junction became the city we know today, an Italian immigrant named Nunzio Grasso helped shape Western Colorado—one stone at a time. Discover the remarkable story of the Italian stonemason whose craftsmanship still stands more than a century later.

What started as a search for family history became a life-changing journey. Kris Rini shares how researching his Italian roots led to finding relatives in Calabria, restoring his family's original surname, and ultimately earning Italian citizenship.

At 14 years old, Marcella Flanagan left New York and returned to post-war Bari, Italy. In Episode 98, Marcella and her niece, Phyllis Orlowski, share an extraordinary story of family, resilience, and living between two cultures.

After years of dreaming about it, we finally made the journey to Italy. Join us as we travel through Rome, Matera, Potenza, the Amalfi Coast, and Pompeii while exploring our family's roots in Basilicata. Along the way, we share unforgettable moments, incredible food, local festivals, and the emotional discovery of the Smaldone family tomb in Potenza.

A DNA test in her 50s revealed a life-changing truth—Christine McBurney was half Italian. What followed was a powerful journey into family secrets, identity, and the discovery of a father she never knew.

Nick Guardione, professional strongman and Arnold Strongman Classic competitor, shares his journey from his Italian roots in Sicily to competing on one of the biggest stages in strength sports.

In this episode, we dive into the mindset, discipline, and family values that shaped his path—from everyday beginnings to performing in front of thousands alongside the world’s strongest athletes.

Nick recently competed in the Arnold Strongman Classic, one of the most elite competitions in the world, and shares what it’s like to step onto that stage alongside legends of the sport. From the pressure of performing in front of thousands to hitting personal records, he gives us an inside look at the life of a professional strongman.

But this story goes far beyond competition.

Nick opens up about his Italian heritage, his family’s journey from Italy to the United States, and the deep influence of his father—whose legacy continues to drive him every time he steps onto the competition floor. What began as a way to cope with loss turned into a passion, and ultimately, a career.

We also dive into:

• His journey from cross country runner to elite strongman

• The mindset required to compete at the highest level

• The culture and camaraderie within the strongman world

• His connection to Italy, including family vineyards and summers abroad

This is a story about strength—but also about identity, purpose, and carrying your family name with pride.