Recorded live in a studio in Franklin, Tennessee, Brian and Anthony take a break from Season 4 itineraries to spotlight the people behind Italy With Bella’s most memorable moments, starting with their first-ever guest: Michela, a Rome-based home cook and host in Trastevere. Together, they unpack what “authentic” really means in a city as big as Rome, why Italy With Bella is selective about partnerships, and how a shared table can turn strangers into friends. Michela shares her journey from Naples to Rome, her philosophy of simple, ingredient-driven cooking, and the magic of creating a Sunday-lunch feeling where phones disappear and human connection takes over, leaving guests with the kind of experience they talk about long after the Colosseum.

Recorded face-to-face in a studio, Brian and Anthony pick up Season 4’s “Traveling Well” journey with a practical itinerary: from Venice and Ravenna into Bologna, then through Parma and Modena for an unforgettable behind-the-scenes day of Parmesan, balsamic, and prosciutto (plus a nod to Italy’s “motor valley” for Ferrari lovers). They share how a local guide can help you get oriented faster, why slowing down creates the moments you’ll remember most, and how to “unpeel the onion” of bucket-list expectations to discover what you actually want from Italy. The episode closes by comparing Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi, with honest insight on crowds, day-tripping, hiking, and choosing the coastal experience that fits your style.

In this episode of the Bella Italy podcast, hosts Brian and Anthony discuss the immersive experiences available in Italy, focusing on the treasures and obstacles travelers may encounter. They introduce guest Sebastian Del Brenna, a jeweler from Cortona, who shares the rich history of Tuscan jewelry and the unique techniques passed down through generations.