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0:00
Hi everyone, I'm Giovanni, and we're back again for a new episode of our daily podcast in Italian. We hope you're well, cozy, perhaps with a cup of coffee or tea, and ready to immerse yourself in natural Italian, just as you'd hear it while strolling the streets of Rome, Milan, Naples, or Florence. And I'm Alessia, hello! And today, as always, we're here to help you improve your listening, your comprehension, and above all, your confidence in hearing real Italian—
0:36
not the kind found in grammar books, but the kind we use every day with friends, family, at work, or at the bar. The real thing, with its expressions, idioms, small silences, laughter, everything that brings the language to life. That's right, today we'll talk about everyday life, how we relive our days, our habits, funny little stories that happen to us, and how we manage our time between work, family, friends, and free time. In short,
1:10
topics that touch everyone, no matter where you live. Yes, we'll talk about breakfast, work, how we organize ourselves, what we do on the weekend, hobbies, friendships, and maybe even some typical Italian trivia you might not know yet. This podcast is designed primarily for those learning Italian, from beginner to intermediate levels, but even more advanced learners can listen to relax, improve their pronunciation , or simply enjoy a pleasant conversation in Italian. And don't worry if you don't
1:48
understand every single word. It's not necessary. The goal isn't to mentally translate every sentence into English or your native language, but to try to understand the general meaning. What's the emotion? What are we talking about? What's the main idea? It's like listening to your native language. You don't analyze every word, do you? You understand from context, tone of voice, and expressions. Even in Italian, with a little practice, your brain will learn to do the same.
2:21
Second tip: listen several times. This podcast is an hour long, but you don't have to listen to it all at once. You can listen to the first ten minutes today, then repeat it tomorrow, and then move on. Repetition is key to retaining vocabulary and idioms. And if you want, you can also listen first with subtitles, to fully understand the content, and then rewatch without subtitles, just by listening. This way, you'll train your ear to recognize words you've
2:53
already read. Another trick? Try repeating aloud some sentences you like, even just mentally. For example, if you hear "I wake up at half past seven," try repeating it. Then change it to your reality. "I wake up at eight." This way, you're not just listening, you're starting to use the language. And don't forget! You don't have to understand everything right away. Understanding 50% today is a great result. Tomorrow
3:23
you'll understand 60%, then 70%. And one day, without realizing it, you'll understand almost everything effortlessly. And remember, every time you listen, you're taking a step forward. Even if you don't realize it right away, your brain is working in the background. It's like going to the gym. You don't see results the first day, but with consistency, they come. So relax. Enjoy the conversation. Smile when you hear something funny. And if you don't understand, that's okay. Keep listening.
4:00
Understanding will come with time. Good. Now we're really ready to begin with the first part of the podcast. Our typical day, from when we wake up until mid-morning. Ready? Ready? So, let's start with me. I usually wake up at 7:00. Or at least, that's what my alarm says. But the truth? I don't get up right away. No, no. When I hear the alarm, I turn it off. And then I stay in bed for, say, 5 minutes. Maybe 10. Sometimes even 15. It depends on
4:38
how tired I am and what day it is. Oh, Giovanni, you're just like me. I'm not a morning person either. My alarm goes off at 7:30, but I usually turn it off at least twice. It's a struggle every morning. Before I get up, I have to convince myself. Alessia, come on, it's time. You can't sleep until noon today . Exactly. It's like your body says, no, not yet. Just give me five more minutes. And your brain says, yes, five minutes. But then those five minutes become ten. And by then
5:15
you're already late. And you know what's the worst? When you fall asleep again. It happens. Right? You hear the alarm, you turn it off, you close your eyes for just a moment, and when you open them again, 20 minutes have passed. And you're still in bed with your heart pounding because you're late. Oh, yes, it's terrible. It happened to me too last week. I woke up suddenly, looked at the clock. It was 7:25, and I had to be online for a 7:30 class. I jumped
5:50
up, grabbed my computer, and sat down at my desk still in my pajamas. Luckily, my camera was turned off. Typical. But in the end, you managed it. And anyway, you're not alone. Many Italians hit snooze at least once. It's almost a tradition. Although sometimes I wonder why I set the alarm so early if I know I'll turn it off right away? Good question. Maybe because we hope to be stronger than temptation? We hope that one day, magically, we'll wake up right away, full of energy,
6:27
as if we'd drunk three cups of coffee before even opening our eyes. Yes, that day may come, but in the meantime we keep moving the alarm further. Anyway, after those five minutes, which are actually ten or fifteen, what do you do, Giovanni? Do you really get up? Yes, eventually, when I realize I can't put it off any longer. I open my eyes, sit on the bed, yawn, and then go to the bathroom. It's the first step toward a normal day. Good. And from there, everything begins. But let's talk about it
7:03
right away, because now it's time for the morning routine. Shower, breakfast, getting dressed, and that much-loved coffee. So, after sitting on the bed and winning or losing the internal battle with my pillow, I finally get up. I go to the bathroom, turn on the light, and the first thing I do is brush my teeth. It's automatic. How can I breathe? Although sometimes, when I'm still half asleep, I risk brushing my phone instead of my toothbrush. It happened to me too. One time I grabbed my
7:40
deodorant and tried to brush my teeth with it. Luckily, I realized it in time, otherwise it would have been a disaster. Exactly. In the morning, my brain is still in standby mode. But after brushing my teeth, I splash my face with cold water. And you know what? It works wonders. In a second, I feel more awake, more present. Cold water is like a reset for the brain. I agree. I wash my face every morning too. I use a light cleanser, then a toner and
8:15
a moisturizing cream. I'm not vain, but I like taking care of my skin. And it's part of my routine. It's a way of telling myself, okay, Alessia, now the day begins. Yes, it's true. These little habits help us organize our minds. After my face, I move on to the shower. I usually take a quick shower, about five minutes. Not too long because I don't want to stay out late, but long enough to wake me up completely. I, on the other hand, sometimes get lost in the shower,
8:50
especially on Saturdays or Sundays. I like to lie there with the hot water running and think about my day. Sometimes I even sing; no one hears me, so I can mess up as many notes as I want. What song do you usually sing? It depends on my mood. Sometimes it's Italian music, maybe a song by Basco Rossi or Laura Pausini. Other times, if I'm more relaxed, I listen to jazz or singer-songwriters like De André. And you, Giovanni, do you sing in the shower? I prefer not to. Not because
9:28
I don't like it, but because my roommate once told me, Giovanni, when you sing it sounds like someone is torturing a cat. So I decided to spare the neighbors this peculiar spectacle. Poor Giovanni, but at least you're aware. Many aren't. Exactly, better to sing in your head and leave the music to the real artists. Anyway, after the shower I dry off, put on my bathrobe, and go back to my room to get dressed. That's another important moment, choosing my
10:03
clothes. Oh yeah? The morning dilemma. What should I wear? Sometimes I think about it for ten minutes. I look in the closet, open all the drawers, and finally choose the same thing I wore yesterday. I'm more practical. I usually know what I'll wear the next day the night before, so I don't waste time in the morning. But I admit that when it rains or it's cold, I always check out the window to decide
10:31
whether to put on a sweater or a jacket. Wise. I, on the other hand, often leave the house and after ten minutes think I should have worn something warmer, or why did I wear jeans? It's too hot. That's life, but that's okay. Every day is a little experiment, and now that we're clean, dressed, and almost Wake up. Let's move on to the most important part of the morning: breakfast. So, after getting dressed,
11:02
I go to the kitchen and there begins the part of my morning that I love most: breakfast. For me, breakfast is sacred; I never skip it. It fuels the day. I agree. It's an important moment for me too. But my breakfast is different from yours, I already know that. You're the classic Italian barista. Coffee and croissant, right? Exactly. Usually, if I have time, I go to the local café. An espresso macchiato, that is, coffee with a little milk and a croissant. Sometimes plain, sometimes with jam,
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but never with Nutella in the morning. I save that for special moments. I, on the other hand, love a croissant with Nutella, but only on the weekends. During the week, I try to have a lighter , more balanced breakfast. And what do you eat, Alessia? I drink a glass of orange juice or hot water with lemon. Yeah, I don't know, it sounds like a very healthy person. And then I eat something substantial. Usually milk with whole grains, or Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and a little honey. Very healthy,
12:17
yes. And do you feel better afterwards? Honestly, yes. If I eat something too heavy in the morning, like a giant croissant, after an hour I feel tired, like I need another nap. However, with a lighter breakfast, I feel energetic for at least three or four hours. Interesting. On the other hand, after coffee, I have a small energy dip, but after two hours I crash. And then I think, maybe I should change my habits. Maybe, but you don't have to change everything. You could try a
12:52
compromise, a coffee at the bar, but instead of the croissant, a piece of fruit or a toast with ham and mozzarella. That way you have a balanced protein and carbohydrate mix. It's not a bad idea. You know, I'd never thought of that. I usually follow tradition: coffee at the bar, croissant, and off you go. It's quick, it's good, and it's Italian. Oh, yes, it's true. The bar ritual is part of the culture. I really enjoy going
13:21
to the bar on Sunday mornings with friends. Ordering a cappuccino? Yes, I'd have it at the bar even after eleven, despite what the purists say, and chat for half an hour. Ah, the debate about cappuccino after eleven. I know, many Italians say cappuccino is only drunk at breakfast, never after lunch. But if I'm at the beach on vacation and it's hot, I drink an iced cappuccino at midday. And I don't feel guilty. Me neither. Rules are nice, but sometimes you have to
13:54
adapt them to real life. Anyway, back to us, you have coffee at the bar, I have it at home. Do you ever make it at home? Yes, of course. When it's raining or when I'm fried, I use the moka pot. I make coffee in two minutes, pour it into the cup, and drink it standing up, like you do at the bar. Is it a little ritual at home too? I also use the moka pot when I want a real coffee. I'm not very convinced by the Americano coffee from the machine
14:28
. I prefer the strong flavor of the moka pot. Exactly, it's authentic. And I don't appreciate the smell that wafts through the house. It wakes you up better than any alarm clock. True. The smell of freshly brewed coffee is one of the most beautiful things in the morning. Anyway, after breakfast, what happens? After breakfast, I sit down for a moment, sometimes still in the kitchen, sometimes in the living room, and I do something that
15:01
probably millions of people around the world do. I pick up my phone. It's almost automatic. As soon as I finish eating, my hand goes to it. I don't even think about it. Oh, Giovanni, you're really normal. I do it too. In fact, I have to admit, sometimes I check my phone before I even get out of bed. It's terrible, I know. But I get a notification, open my eyes, and see who texted me. Exactly. It's as if the phone is a part
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of our body now. But you know what? I've tried not to touch it for the first ten minutes after waking up, and I assure you, it's difficult, very difficult. Yes, it's a challenge, but I've decided to try it too. Every now and then, especially on weekends, I try to enjoy breakfast without my phone. No social media, no emails, no news. Just coffee, silence, and maybe some music in the background. How lovely. It must be very relaxing. I try, but after two minutes
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I get anxious. What if there's an important message? What if a student needs me? What if I have an appointment I've forgotten? Eventually I give in. But when I can switch off, I feel calmer, more present. Yes, that's exactly how it is. When I don't use my phone right away, my mind is freer. I don't leave. I already have a thousand thoughts in my head. Instead, I can think about the weather outside, what I want
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to do today, how I feel. Little things we usually skip. It's true. And do you know what I do after checking my phone? I check my work emails, I quickly scan the news, just the headlines, and then I open WhatsApp to see if I've received any messages from friends or family. If I'm working from home, I open my computer right away. But before I even start, I drink a second cup of tea. I like green or chamomile tea in the morning. It helps me concentrate without the jittery effect of coffee.
17:17
Good idea. Coffee gives me energy, but sometimes too much. After two cups, I start drumming my fingers on the desk without realizing it. We all do it. But back to the phone, how much time do you think we spend checking it each day? I don't know, maybe an hour or two, I don't know, but I know I often pick it up for no reason. I'm sitting on the couch, doing nothing, and suddenly I have my phone in my hand and I'm watching the same things I was watching ten minutes earlier. Exactly. It's
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an unconscious habit. That's why I sometimes do a digital detox. No social media for a day, or at least no phone during meals. It helps me reconnect with real life. Great. I should try it too. Maybe I'll start tomorrow, after I finish this podcast. Promise? Anyway, after this digital break, or digital-less in your case, what do you do? Are you ready for work? More or less. At that point I get ready to leave the house. I put my wallet in my pocket, grab my keys,
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check that the computer is charged, and off I go. But I don't always go straight to the office. Oh yeah? Let's talk a bit about how we get to work. Because that's also part of a typical day, right? Yes, exactly. After breakfast and wasting time on my phone, let's face it, I get ready to go out. Depending on the day, I ride my bike to work or take public transportation. I live downtown, so I don't need a car, and honestly, I prefer not to.
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Traffic in Milan is a nightmare. I know that well. In Rome, it's the same, although I sometimes take the bus when it rains or I'm tired. But usually, if the weather's nice, I walk or take the subway. Walking helps me wake up completely and organize my thoughts before starting work. Good job. I love cycling. It's good for your body, your mood, and your wallet. No gas, no parking, no stress about traffic. And then I see the city in a
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different way. You notice the details. A new bar, a tree that's put out leaves, a cat sleeping on the wall. How lovely. It's true, by bike or on foot, you experience the city. In the car, however, you're closed in a bubble. You listen to the radio, you're nervous, and when you arrive, you don't even remember the route you took. Exactly. And you know what? Some of my best thoughts come while cycling to work. Maybe I'm thinking about a lesson to prepare and suddenly
20:15
a brilliant idea comes to me. Today I'll have my students do a role-play about coffee at the bar. There, it all started on a bike. How wonderful. When I take the subway, I listen to Italian podcasts or music. Sometimes I open my phone's notebook and jot down a few notes. Ideas for social media, reminders, or even just phrases that come to mind. Very productive. If I take the tram, on the other hand, I usually look out the window. I like people-watching. Those running with their
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bags in hand, those reading a book, those sleeping with their heads resting against the window. Yes, the subway is a little theater of everyday life. Sometimes I see couples arguing in hushed tones, children laughing, grandparents carrying the newspaper. It's a gratuitous spectacle. Absolutely. And in any case, whether I ride a bike, the tram, or on foot, getting to work gives me a specific feeling. Okay, now the
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day begins. It's like a gear shift. Yes, it's a mental signal. The relaxation period is over, now it's time for work. But you know, I'm lucky enough to work from home two days a week, and I have to tell you something. It's convenient, but sometimes I miss that commute. Really? Think working from home was perfect. No commute, no delays, and we'll be huddled together until 11 a.m. Yes, there are advantages. But that commute, even if short, is important. It's a sort of boundary between home and
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work. When I go to the office, I know that during the journey I'm leaving the domestic side of life behind. I'm preparing for my professional life. From home, however, I go straight from bed to desk. Sometimes it's too seamless. What an interesting thought. I'd never thought of that. So that journey isn't just physical, it's also mental. Exactly. It's a transition ritual. That's why, when I work from home, I try to create a fake one. I take a short walk around
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the building, make myself a coffee, or I wear something more work-like, even if I stay home. Very clever. When I teach online, I also try to dress as if I were going to class. I don't want to teach in my pajamas, even if no one sees me. Aha, but you feel more professional, right? Yes, exactly. The way you dress affects the way you think. If I look ready, I feel ready. There, that's the point. So, now that we've gotten to work, both physically and mentally,
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we can talk about what we do during the day. What do you say, Giovanni? Let's move on to work? Great idea. Let's talk about work, studies, meetings, deadlines, and how to survive Monday morning. So, Giovanni, let's talk a little about work. You work as a language teacher, right? Specifically, you teach Italian to foreigners. Yes, exactly. You teach Italian as a second language to students from all over the world.
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I have students from the United States, Germany, Brazil, Japan, Spain, even Australia. It's one of the most interesting jobs I could have, because every day I learn something new, not just about the language, but about cultures, accents, and ways of thinking. How wonderful! And what's a typical day like for you in the classroom? Do you teach in person or online? A bit of both. Some classes are in person, at a
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language school here in Milan, others are online. And you know what? Sometimes I prefer online. Not because it's easier , but because I can see students from places I'd never meet in person. And then I can teach from my living room, in my slippers. Ah yes, the comfortable side of working from home. But I imagine teaching online requires a lot of concentration, right? You have to be careful not to speak too
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quickly, to repeat, and to use clear language. Absolutely. When I teach, I always have to remember that Italian is a new language for them. I can't speak the way I do with you, with idiomatic expressions or overly complex sentences. I have to simplify, repeat, use gestures, draw on the board, and above all, smile. Smiling helps people understand, even when words aren't enough. It's true. Body language is crucial, especially when learning a language. And what's
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the level of your students? Are they all beginners? No, I have a mix of both. Some are absolute beginners. They can't even say, "Hello, my name is Giovanni." Others are almost fluent, speak well, but want to perfect their pronunciation or learn more colloquial expressions. And then there are those who study for work, to move to Italy, or for love. Yes, I had a student who learned Italian because he was in love with a girl
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from Naples. How sweet! And did it work? Yes, they got married last year in Positano, and guess what? I received a special invitation and a bottle of limoncello. How wonderful! It's wonderful when language becomes a bridge to real relationships. And you, how did you become an Italian teacher? Was it always your dream? Not exactly. I used to work as a translator, but I spent all day in front of the computer, alone. Then I took a
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teacher training course and tried teaching. And I loved it. There's something magical in seeing a student who doesn't understand anything at first and, after a few months, is able to tell you about their day in Italian with enthusiasm. How satisfying! It must be wonderful. And how do you manage the differences between students? For example, one is shy, the other always talks. How do you balance them? Excellent question. It's one of the biggest challenges.
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Some students speak immediately, without fear of making mistakes. Others are afraid, they freeze, they're embarrassed. And I always try to create a safe environment, where making mistakes is normal. In fact, it's necessary, because you learn from them. Yes, it's fundamental. Even in my work, when I train new colleagues, I always say don't be afraid to ask questions, because if you don't ask, you don't learn. Exactly. And in class I try to ask questions.
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Open, to encourage everyone to speak, even with just one word at first. And little by little I see them opening up. It's like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, slowly but beautifully . What a beautiful image, Giovanni! So, now that we've talked about you, it's my turn to talk about my work. So, Giovanni, you teach Italian and deal with people from all over the world. I work in digital communications. I manage the social media
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for an Italian company that produces home products, design objects, and kitchen accessories. Beautiful and functional things. Interesting. So you spend your day writing posts, choosing photos, responding to comments, and perhaps following the latest trends? Exactly. More or less. My job is a mix of creativity, strategy, and a little psychology. I have to understand what the audience likes, how to describe a product authentically, and,
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above all, when to publish. Because posting at eight in the morning isn't the same as posting at eight in the evening. Every hour has its audience. Oh, I'd never thought of that. How do you know when the right time is? I analyze the data. We have tools that tell us when our followers are most active. For example, on Instagram, many users log in during their lunch break or in the evening, after dinner. So I try to schedule posts for those times.
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So you don't publish everything in real time. Rarely. I use a program that lets me schedule posts days in advance. This allows me to work calmly, think carefully about the content, and I don't have to be glued to my phone all day. How convenient! On the other hand, when I prepare a lesson, I always do it at the last minute. But, getting back to social media, what kind of content do you publish? Videos, photos, long texts? A bit of everything. We take professional photos of the
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products, but also short videos showing how to use them. For example, a new cutting board with a tutorial for serving cheese. And then, sometimes, we share customer stories. How do you use our product in your kitchen? It's very authentic and people appreciate it. It seems like a very dynamic job . You go from writing texts to shooting videos to talking to the design team. I imagine it's never boring. Never. And I don't just spend time on the computer. Every now and then I go to meetings with
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the marketing team. Or I attend events. For example, trade shows or new product presentations. Sometimes I also have to write press releases or respond to journalists. Wow! So, really, you do a lot of different things every day. It's not just being on Instagram. Absolutely not. A social media manager today has to know how to do a bit of everything. Writing, taking photos, understanding the market, analyzing numbers, being creative, and, above all, listening. Because
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comments, messages, reviews are gold. They tell us what people like, what doesn't work, what we can improve.
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It's true. And I, too, when I finish a course, always ask my students for feedback. It's the only way to grow. Exactly. And you know what's funny? Sometimes I get funny messages, like, "Great product, but where can I buy it?" And I reply, look, send. But in general, people are nice. And when I see a post getting a lot of likes and shares, I feel satisfied. It's like saying, okay, I did my job well today. How nice! And do you only work from home or do you also go to the office?
31:23
So, I work two days a week from home and three in the office. And you know what? Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Oh yeah? Tell me. Because so many of my friends who work from home say it's perfect. No traffic, no formal wear, you can work in your pajamas. It seems like heaven. Yes, it seems like that. And actually, I'm more focused from home. There aren't any colleagues stopping by every five minutes asking, "Did you watch the latest series on Netflix or do you want a
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coffee?" So I can finish things faster and then I can organize myself better. If I need a break, I take a walk in the garden, make a cup of tea, or even hang out the laundry between meetings. Only you could proudly say hanging out the laundry during a work break. Why not? It's real life. But it's not all roses and rainbows. Sometimes working from home can be isolating. You're alone all day, talking. Only through the screen, and at the end of the day you feel a bit like you haven't
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really spoken to anyone. Yes, I understand. It's as if that human contact is missing, even if it's small. The morning greeting, a joke in the hallway, a quick coffee with a colleague. Exactly. And then there's another problem. Boundaries. When home is also an office, it's easy for work to invade your private life. For example, I finish at 6 PM, but then at 7:30 PM I think, "Oh, I just have to reply to that email," and I end up working for another hour.
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Oh, the famous "just one more thing." It's the trap of working from home. When I teach online, I try to turn off the computer at 7 PM and that's it. Otherwise, I'd never finish. Good. You have to create rituals. When I work from home, at the end of the day I turn off the computer, take off my headphones, and take a short walk around the building. It's my way of saying, work's done. Now it's time for real life. What a lovely
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habit. When I get home from the office, I hang up my jacket, take off my shoes, and automatically feel more relaxed. It's as if that gesture transforms me from a teacher to a normal person. Yes, those small gestures are important. Returning to the office, there are pros and cons there too. The main benefit is socialization. I talk with colleagues, we joke, sometimes we have lunch together. And this creates a sense of teamwork, of belonging. And let's face it, the office
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has free coffee, and the coffee shop downstairs is expensive. True. But the office can also be disruptive. Sometimes there are too many meetings, too much noise, or someone talking loudly on the phone for an entire hour. And then I think, today I would have worked better from home. So the ideal mix is exactly what you do. A bit of both. A balance. Yes, it works for me. Two days of calm and focus at home, three of energy and discussion
35:07
in the office. And you, Giovanni, do you prefer teaching in person or online? Well, it's difficult for me to choose. Teaching in person has a special magic. I see students' expressions, their reactions, I can correct their pronunciation immediately, play role-plays, and move around the classroom. There's a lively energy that's sometimes missing online. Yes, I understand. It's like the difference between watching a
35:40
concert live or streaming it. It's the same music, but the experience is different. Exactly. But I have to admit that teaching online has its advantages. I can record lessons for students who can't attend, use more digital materials, videos, interactive quizzes, and animated presentations. And often students feel more comfortable because they're in their own space without the pressure of being in front of the whole class. Is that true? Sometimes, remotely,
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people are better at speaking because they're less afraid of making mistakes. And in any case, whether you teach in person or online, one thing is certain. A teacher's job isn't easy. It requires a lot of patience, preparation, and passion. Yes, especially passion. Passion. Because if you don't love what you do, after a while you get tired. But getting back to those who study, because this podcast is also for students, I'd like to ask you, Alessia, you studied
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at university, right? What advice would you give to a student just starting out? Excellent question. First of all, get organized—that's the magic word. Use a calendar. Write down exam deadlines, class days, study times. Don't be like me in my first year; I thought I'd remember everything in my head, but instead I forgot two tests. It happened to me too. I'd walk into class and ask, "There's a test today," and everyone would look at me
37:22
like I was crazy. That's why I say, write everything down. And not just that. Make a list of things to do each day. It doesn't have to be long. Three or four clear objectives. For example, today I'll read ten pages of my history book. I'll review my grammar notes and email the professor to clarify a question. Yes, and don't try to study for ten hours straight. It's pointless. Better to study methodically: 45 minutes of concentration, then a 15-minute break. Walk,
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stretch, eat a piece of fruit, and then start again. Exactly. And above all, don't wait until the last minute to study. I know, we all do it. The night before the exam, you open your book and think, "Where am I?" These past two months. But if you study a little every day, you never have to experience that last- minute panic. And another piece of advice. Participate in class. Don't just listen or watch
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recordings. Ask questions. Take notes by hand. Yes, by hand. Because writing helps you memorize. And if you don't understand something, ask right away. Yes, and don't be afraid of looking stupid. No one is stupid for asking. In fact, those who ask show they're trying to understand. And professors really appreciate inquisitive students. Right. And if a student is having problems with a professor, a classmate, or
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stress, what should they do? Well, Giovanni, if a student is having a problem—with a professor, a classmate, or simply feels overwhelmed by studying—the first thing to do is talk to someone. Don't keep it all inside. Sometimes just sharing your feelings can make you feel better. Exactly. You don't have to deal with everything alone. You can talk to a trusted friend, a family member, or someone at the university, a tutor, a psychological counselor, or a department
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assistant . Many universities offer free services for students, but many aren't aware of them or don't use them for fear of being judged. And yet, they should. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, but of strength. It means you're taking care of yourself. And studying is important, but your mental health is even more so. Exactly. Okay, now that we've talked about work and studying, let's change the subject. Let's move on to something lighter. Free time. After
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a busy day, what do you usually do? Ah, finally! My favorite time. After work, I always try to unwind. Sometimes I go to the gym, other times I take a long walk, especially on a nice day. But my favorite activity? Cooking. Really? I didn't remember. Yes, I love being in the kitchen. It relaxes me. While I'm chopping vegetables or waiting for the sauce to thicken, I feel focused, present. It's almost like meditation. And then, of course, there's the
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final satisfaction. Eating something you made with your own hands. How wonderful! After work, I sometimes go to the gym, but I'm often too tired. So I sit on the couch, turn on the TV, and watch a series. Lately, I've been following an Italian series about a family of fishermen in Sicily. It's very beautiful, very realistic. Oh, how wonderful! I like Italian series too, but I often watch them with English subtitles, just to practice. Ha, ironic, isn't it? You, a native speaker, use
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English subtitles to learn Italian. Exactly, but it works. Sometimes I just listen without looking at the screen and then check the subtitles afterwards. It's a great listening exercise . But back to you, besides series, do you read anything? Yes, every now and then. I prefer detective novels or contemporary novels. Recently, I read a book by Sandro Veronesi, very beautiful, even if at times it was a little difficult because of the poetic language, but I like to challenge myself.
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How wonderful! I, on the other hand, mostly read cookbooks and travel books. Sometimes I don't read them to actually prepare the dishes, but to dream. One day I'll make this porcini mushroom risotto in the Aosta Valley or have breakfast in a little café in Taormina with a sea view. It's beautiful. Food and travel always go together, right? Anyway, you've made me hungry with all this cooking talk. Tell me what kind of food you like to prepare? Well, I love experimenting, especially with
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international cuisine. In the last few months, I've become passionate about Asian cuisine. I really like Japan, Korea, and Thailand, and I try to recreate the dishes I've tasted while traveling or at restaurants here in the city. Oh, yes. And what do you usually make? For example, I love making homemade ramen. It's not easy, but it's very satisfying. I have to prepare the broth for hours, with pork or chicken bones, kombu seaweed, ginger, and garlic. And then I add
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the ingredients: marinated eggs, shiitake mushrooms, crunchy vegetables, and of course the noodles. It's a bit of a project, but the result is incredible. Wow, it looks like a real chef's recipe. And sushi? Do you do that too? Yes, but not sushi with raw fish. I'm not ready to cut salmon perfectly yet, but I often make vegetarian sushi, with avocado, cucumber, and calamari. Grated and sometimes with surimi. And I use sushi rice, seasoned with
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rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Is it easy once you learn the trick to keeping it from sticky? How envious! I once tried making sushi and the result was a bit disastrous. The rice was too wet, the seaweed broke, and in the end it looked like a sad burrito roll. It 's normal. The first attempt at sushi is always a surprise. But the important thing is to laugh and try again. You know, cooking isn't just about eating; it's also about learning not to be afraid of making mistakes.
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You're right. When I cook, I keep things very simple. Pasta with tomato sauce, scrambled eggs, or a nice salad with tuna and olives. But I admit that sometimes I wish I knew how to do more, but I just don't have much patience in the kitchen. See, cooking also teaches patience. For example, the Thai curry I make takes time. I have to toast the spices, make the coconut milk, and slowly cook the chicken or tofu. It's not a quick dish, but the aroma that fills the house is magical.
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I imagine. I buy it pre-made, in a jar. But I have to say, you're hoping for me. Maybe I should take a cooking lesson, or better yet, could you give me a lesson, Alessia? Sure, but with one condition. You teach me how to give a fun Italian lesson like yours. Deal? Deal. So, after cooking, what do you do in your free time? Are you a stay-at-home type or a go-out person? Well, it depends on the time of year and my mood. There are days when I just want to stay home,
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with a blanket, a book, and a herbal tea. But when I can, I love going out, especially in nature. I really enjoy walking, hiking in the mountains, strolling in the woods, or even just going to the park and sitting on a bench to read. How lovely! I, on the other hand, have to admit, am more of a city person. I like going to the movies, seeing a concert, or having an aperitivo with friends in a beautiful urban garden. But every now and then, especially in the summer, I like to escape. A hike
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in the hills, a day at the lake is regenerating. Yes, it's true. I also like concerts and movies, but there's something about nature that brings you back to yourself. When I walk in the mountains, for example, I don't think about work, text messages, deadlines. I think only of my footsteps, my breathing, the sound of the wind in the trees. It's like a mental reset. What a beautiful image! It's almost like
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a military operation. Where do you usually go? I often go to Val di Fassa, in Trentino. It's one of the most beautiful places I know. High mountains, green pastures, refuges where you can eat polenta and cheese after a long hike. Sometimes I go with friends, other times alone. And you know what? Even alone, I never feel alone. I feel free. How exciting! I, on the other hand, choose music to relax. I listen to everything. Italian rock, jazz, classical music. And lately, I've rediscovered
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my dad's old vinyl records. He has a fantastic collection. De Andrè, Battisti, Lucio Dalla, and a few Mina records. Mina, what a voice! And do you like listening to them on the turntable? Yes, it's a whole other experience. The sound is warmer, more human. And then there's the ritual. Taking the record out of its case, cleaning it carefully, lowering the tonearm slowly. It's like going back in time. Sometimes, while listening, I start reading or simply close my eyes and let the music
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take me away. What a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon. As for me, when I'm at home and want to relax, I often watch documentaries. I like the ones about nature, food, travel. I recently watched one about Peruvian cuisine. And guess what, I finished it and immediately went looking for a ceviche recipe. You see, it all comes back to the kitchen. Anyway, it's beautiful how each of us finds our own way to recharge our batteries. You with the mountains, me with music, you with cooking,
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me with a good movie. Exactly. Free time doesn't have to be productive to be worthwhile. Sometimes you just need to do nothing. Sitting, gazing at the sky, drinking a coffee slowly, makes you feel truly alive. Wise words. And speaking of weekends, how do you usually spend them? Ah, weekends. For me, they're a special time, especially Sundays. It's like a little ritual that gives me balance. Usually, on Sunday mornings I go shopping at my neighborhood market. I love those little things.
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Open-air markets, with their stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread, and local cheese. I love markets too. There's something authentic, human about them. It's not like the supermarket where you grab everything quickly and run away. At the market, you talk to people. The greengrocer tells you which peach is the ripest. The honey lady lets you taste a teaspoon. It's a social experience.
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Exactly. And then I only buy what I need for lunch, because on Sundays, without exception, I have lunch with my parents. It's a family tradition we've always respected. How wonderful! The classic Italian Sunday lunch. I imagine the table set, the wine in the carafe, the aroma of sauce simmering for hours. Exactly. My father always prepares something special. A lasagna, a roast, a baked fish. And my mother makes dessert, often a fruit tart
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or tiramisu. We sit at the table for at least two hours. We talk about everything: work, travel, grandchildren, cousins, weird news we've seen on TV. It's beautiful. This is the very heart of Italian culture. Family, food, shared time. Since I moved out on my own, I've somewhat lost this habit. But when I go back to my parents' house in Sicily, it's exactly like this. We don't just eat. We live around the table.
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Yes, and that's important. Sometimes I think these moments are little treasures. They're not extraordinary events , but they're the ones you remember when you're away or when you need to feel at home. You're right. When I'm not in Sicily, I spend my weekends in a simpler way. Sometimes I go out with friends for an aperitivo. Other times I stay home to read, watch a series, or prepare for Monday's class. But every now and then, especially in spring or fall, I organize something with
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friends. A barbecue in the countryside, a walk out of town, or a day at the beach, weather permitting. How lovely! And who do you usually go out with? With colleagues, old friends, new acquaintances? A little bit of everything. I have a group of friends from university, whom I've been seeing for years. We're like a second family. But lately I've also met new people, thanks to music classes and some cultural events. And you know what? It's
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nice to have friends of different ages. We talk about different things, we have different interests, and I always learn something. Yes, friends enrich life. And in any case, whether you're with family or friends, the weekend should be a time to slow down, to enjoy the little things. It doesn't have to be a schedule packed with activities. Exactly. Sometimes a walk, a good book, a coffee at the bar with a smile is enough. And speaking of relationships, how about we talk a
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little about friendship and social life. So, Alessia, let's talk a little about friendship. One thing I often wonder is how many true friends do we actually have? Not the ones you say hello on Instagram or have happy hour with every now and then, but the ones you can talk to about everything. Even the difficult things, the doubts, the fears. What a great question. You know, in my opinion, you can count real friends on
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one hand. I'd say I have maybe five or six. With them, I can be completely myself. I don't have to pretend. I don't have to seem strong when I'm sad. I don't have to hide my mistakes. Yes, exactly. I have three friends like that. I've known them for over ten years. We met at university, and even though we live in different cities now, we talk regularly. Sometimes all it takes is a text—"How are you?"—and within minutes, a deep conversation begins, as if no
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time had passed. It's wonderful when that happens. It's a sign the bond is real. And you? How do you stay in touch with them? Phone calls? Video calls? In-person meetings? A bit of everything. We usually chat on WhatsApp, send messages, audio clips, memes, sometimes a photo of lunch or the neighbor's dog. Then every two or three weeks we have a long phone call, while we're walking or doing something boring, like ironing. We see each other in person at least twice a year. One comes to Milan,
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I go to Sicily, and then we talk. Until two in the morning with a bottle of wine. How wonderful! I, on the other hand, have a best friend who lives in Bologna. We video call almost every week, always on Sunday evenings. We have tea or a glass of wine. We spend time together, drinking wine, and we talk about everything. Work, family, relationships, dreams, sometimes even nothing. But it's that nothingness that's good. Yes, casual chats are the best. You don't have to solve
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a problem, you don't have to offer advice, you just have to be there. Exactly. And you know what? Sometimes we don't even talk. We sit in silence, looking at our screens, each in our own homes, and that's fine. It's a comfortable silence, not awkward. It's like saying I'm here, you're there, and everything's fine. What a beautiful image. It's true that with true friends, even silence has a familiar sound. And yet, with certain people, even ten minutes of conversation
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can seem like an eternity. Exactly. This is why I believe quality matters much more than quantity. A few sincere friends are better than many superficial acquaintances. And you, Giovanni, how do you know if someone can become a true friend? Good question. For me, the sign that someone can become a true friend is when I feel comfortable being imperfect with them. When I can say, "I'm not feeling well today, I'm tired, I made a mistake," without fear of being judged.
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Yes, it's essential. Vulnerability is the foundation of a true friendship. If you can't show your weaknesses, then you're always acting and you can't build something authentic on a mask. Exactly. Another sign for me is when the person reciprocates. It's not just me talking, sharing, giving advice, but they also open up their world, sharing their doubts, their fears, their dreams—not just the good things, but also the difficult ones.
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Yes, friendship is a two-way relationship. It doesn't always have to be one person supporting the other. Sometimes I'm the one who listens, other times I'm the one who needs to talk, and when that works, the bond grows. And then there's another thing: small shared habits. For example, there's a friend with whom I always go to watch a game at the bar when he's in Milan. It's not the game itself that matters, but the fact that we're always in the same place, ordering the same
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aperitif, laughing at the same jokes. It's a ritual. How beautiful. I have another friend with whom we've been exchanging cards every Christmas for years. Not a text, not an Instagram post. A real postcard with a stamp, handwritten. And every time I receive it, I smile. It's a simple gesture, but full of meaning. It's beautiful. Today, with all the instant messages, receiving something physical, made with care, is special. It shows you've thought about it, that you've taken the time.
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Yes. And as for daily contact, I don't think you have to talk every day to be friends. In fact, sometimes long silences don't ruin a true friendship. If you're still in touch after two months, and it seems like no time has passed, then that's a good sign. Exactly. It's not the frequency that matters, but the quality of the contact. A sincere message every now and then is worth more than 100
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automatic "how are yous." And anyway, to keep a friendship alive, every now and then you have to do something together. Not just talk, but share an experience. For me, one of the best ways is to organize a dinner at home. Oh yes. Dinners with friends are sacred. Exactly. Once a month I invite three or four friends to my house. Each one brings something. Wine, dessert, appetizers. I make
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the first or second course. It doesn't have to be a perfect dinner. In fact, I often burn something, the sauce is too salty, but it doesn't matter. The important thing is to laugh, talk, and be together. How wonderful. That's the beauty of friendship. You don't have to be perfect. You just have to be present. Speaking of important people, let's change the subject a bit. Besides friends, there's obviously family. Alessia,
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you still live with your parents, right? Yes, exactly. I still live with them in a large apartment here in Turin. And I have to say, even though I sometimes dream of a little more independence, I actually feel very good here. There's love, there's support, and above all, I don't have to cook every day. The advantage of living with mom. But seriously, it's nice to have someone to share the house with, to talk about the day with, or even just watch TV in silence on the couch.
1:00:06
Yes, it's true. And it's not just a practical issue. It's also emotional. Sometimes I come home after a difficult day. And my mom can see in my face that something's wrong. I mustn't. Not even talking. She makes me a herbal tea, asks me if everything's okay, and I already feel better. How sweet. It's a confidence that not everyone has. I've lived alone since I started working, and even though I appreciate my freedom, some nights I miss that sense of domestic warmth. An
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empty, quiet house, but sometimes too quiet. I understand that. But living with family also has its challenges. Sometimes I want to go out with friends until late, and I know my parents worry. Or other times I want to invite someone over for a sleepover, and it's not easy. In short, you have to find a balance. Sure, but in general, I'd say the relationship with family is one of the most important. And speaking of
1:01:11
relationships, how about we talk for a moment about love, about romantic relationships? Ah, a hot topic. All right, let's tackle it. Giovanni, you're a teacher who meets people from all over the world, do you think it's difficult to find someone in Italy? Or rather, is it different than in other countries? Well, I don't know if it's harder or easier in Italy, but it's certainly different. We Italians are very attached to face-to-face relationships, to direct contact,
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to the gaze, to a smile. We're not known for being cold or aloof. In fact, sometimes we're a little too passionate. Oh, it's true. In Italy, emotion, gestures, and glances matter a lot. But today, especially among young people, things are changing. More and more people meet someone through dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, or Apple. Yes, I know. Some of my students have told me that's how it is, that they've met their partner. And I'm not judging. If it works,
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it works. The important thing is that there's respect, sincerity, and that in the end, we actually look each other in the eye, not just on the phone screen. Exactly. Apps can be a way to broaden your horizons, especially if you live in a small city or have a very busy life between work and home. But sometimes it becomes a bit too much like choosing a dish from a menu, swiping right, swiping left, without really listening to who the person is. Right. That's why I believe a first
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in-person date is crucial. Because on a profile, you might seem nice, intelligent, and interesting. But if there's no chemistry in person, no connection, then it doesn't matter how many messages you've exchanged beforehand. Yes, body language says much more than a thousand WhatsApp messages. A genuine smile, a kind gesture, the way they look at you while you're talking. These are details you can't read from a photo. And anyway, not everyone uses apps. Many still fall in love
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through friends, at work, at university, or even at the local café. For example, I met a couple who met because they both always went to the same café for coffee. And one day the barista said, "But you two don't know each other. You're here every day at the same time." How sweet, the barista as Cupid. And you know what? I believe sincerity is the most important thing in a relationship. There's no point in being perfect if you're hiding who you
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really are. Better to be a little weird, a little awkward, but authentic. Exactly. And you also have to be patient. Sometimes it takes a while to find the right person, but love isn't a race. Sometimes it comes when you least expect it, from an unexpected direction. Yes, and you shouldn't be afraid to wait, because in the end, we're not just looking for someone to be with, we're looking for someone
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to feel at home with. What a beautiful phrase. And speaking of home, but this time in the sense of country, travel, discovery, how about we talk a little about travel in Italy? Oh yes, let's talk about travel, because Italy is a country to be discovered, not just for tourists, but for us Italians too. Each region has its own character, its own cuisine, its own dialect, its own pace. It's impossible to get bored. Exactly. I love
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traveling in my own country. One of my favorite places is Tuscany. Florence is obviously beautiful. Art, history, architecture. But what I love most are the hills, the vineyards, the olive groves, the small hilltop villages. Siena, San Gimignano, Montepulciano. Walking through there is like stepping into a painting. What poetry! I, on the other hand, have a soft spot for Puglia. It's a region that's often
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overlooked, but it has a unique soul. The sea is among the most beautiful in Italy, clear, calm, with those Turquoise hues that seem fake. And then there are the trulli of Alberobello. Those little houses with conical roofs look like something out of a fairytale. Ah yes, the trulli. I visited them last year. I thought they were just for tourists. But no, many families actually live there. And inside they're warm, welcoming, with white walls and dark wood furniture. It's an
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ancient way of life, yet very authentic. Indeed. And then there's the food in Puglia. It's simple, yet incredible. Orecchiette with turnip greens, warm, freshly fried panzerotti, buffalo mozzarella, and full-bodied red wine. All made with local ingredients, often locally sourced. And let's not forget the coffee. In Puglia, they drink it strong, but slowly. It's not like in the north, where you can get it standing at the bar in 30 seconds. There, sometimes you sit down, chat
1:07:00
with the baristas, and coffee becomes a social occasion. Yes, in some areas of the south, coffee is almost a ritual. You add the sugar first, letting it caramelize at the bottom. It's called caffè in piedi or caffè marocchino, depending on the city. And you know what? When I travel, I always try to drink coffee the way the locals do. It's a way to feel part of the place, even if just for a minute. How lovely! I do the same. When I'm in Tuscany, I order a hot caffè latte, not
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too milky, just to tone down the bitterness. And sometimes, if I'm on vacation, I treat myself to a cappuccino after lunch. Even though I know the Tuscans would look at me askance. The great Italian taboo. Cappuccino is only drunk at breakfast. But you know, on vacation, no one really cares? Especially at the beach. In fact, after a heavy lunch, a cold cappuccino is almost a necessity. Exactly. The rules exist, but when you travel, you can bend them
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a bit. Anyway, Tuscany, Puglia, but Italy is so diverse. What about other regions? Have you ever traveled to Sicily or Sardinia? Yes, I was in Sicily two summers ago. An unforgettable vacation. Palermo, Taormina, the Aeolian Islands. But I don't want to just talk about places. I want to tell you something that struck me. Italian habits. You know, little details that seem normal to us, but to a foreigner can be strange
1:08:38
or funny. Ah yes, those famous Italian curiosities. I've often talked about them with my students. For example, do you know what many foreigners don't understand? Italians almost never put ice in their drinks, not even in the summer. It's true. I myself, at the bar, ordered still water, never sparkling, with ice. And if I order an iced tea, they often bring me hot tea and then pour it into an empty glass with three ice cubes on top. As if ice were an exotic ingredient, to be used sparingly.
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Exactly. It's as if ice were suspicious. What is this white cube? Is it safe? It doesn't ruin the flavor. And let's not even talk about cocktails. An Aperol Spritz with ice? Yes, fine. But a cold coffee with ice? Only in certain modern bars. And one more thing. Coffee at the bar. Foreigners often don't understand that in Italy we drink it standing up, in two minutes, and then we're off. We don't sit down, we don't ask for takeout
1:09:50
. We don't spend half an hour on our laptops. It's a quick, social, almost sacred ritual. Yes, it's a moment of pause, but not of relaxation. You come in, say "coffee please." You drink it standing at the counter, leave a euro and twenty, say "thank you," and leave. All in less than three minutes. It's efficient, cheap, and very Italian. And what if you sit down? Then you pay double, because sitting down means table service, and in
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Italy that comes at a price. The same coffee, which costs a euro and twenty at the counter, can cost two euros and fifty sitting down, and many tourists are disappointed. It's one of the great culture shocks, but it's not a scam, it's just the system. And anyway, if you're passing through, why sit down? The bar is for locals taking a quick break between work and home. Another interesting fact: Lunch is the
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main meal. At midday, we eat well: a first course, a second course, a side dish, maybe a dessert. Then dinner is often light. A little cheese, a little salami, a sandwich, a salad, never a heavy meal like at midday. Yes, and this confuses many foreigners who come to Italy and think, " I want to eat well for dinner," so they order an appetizer, a first course, a second course, a side dish, a dessert, and then wonder why they feel sick. It's our fault, in a way. We should.
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Warn them. Dear tourist, eat lightly for dinner. If you want to eat like a true Italian, have lunch at 1:00 PM and in the evening enjoy only a small snack with a glass of wine. True words. And these little habits are precisely what makes Italy unique. It's not just the beauty of the landscapes, but the way we live, eat, and interact. And do you know something else that often surprises foreigners? The way we split the bill at restaurants. Oh yes, the great
1:12:08
debate. Shall we make friends? In Italy, it's not as automatic to split the bill equally as it is in many other countries. It depends a lot on the context. For example, among friends? Yes, we often split everything, especially if you're in a group. But what if you're a couple? Never. Absolutely never. At a romantic dinner, one of the two pays. Usually it's the man, but not necessarily. It can also be the woman. The important thing
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is that they don't whip out their calculators and say, "You ordered wine? I ordered water." Let me do the math . It would be a disaster. It's like saying, this evening isn't romantic, it's a company budget. Instead, paying for someone else is a gesture of affection, of generosity. And if it happens that one time he pays, the next time she pays. It's an unwritten, but clear, balance. Exactly. It's a kind of unspoken rule. And anyway, even among friends, sometimes one says, "
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I'm buying it tonight." And the others say, "Thanks." Next time, it's my turn. It's a way of showing generosity, not of doing the math perfectly. Another funny thing? Italians speak loudly, especially when they're emotional. On the train, at the bar, in the square. You hear people arguing, laughing, gesticulating, as if they were on a stage. Yes, it's true. We Italians talk with our hands. If I can't gesticulate, I feel half-assed. How can you say it's so big without showing with your hands how
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big it is? Or I don't believe it, without raising my eyebrows and making a gesture of surprise. It's our body language. Sometimes in a market I see two women arguing over the price of tomatoes, and it looks like they're arguing. Instead, they're just haggling passionately. But it's all normal. In the end, they say goodbye with a kiss and a smile. And one last curiosity: eating on the street. In many countries, it's normal to walk around with a sandwich
1:14:35
or gelato in hand. In Italy? Only in some cities. And only for certain foods. Yes, gelato is obviously eaten while walking. It's a ritual. But a plate of pasta? No. A pizza slice? Yes, fine. But if you try to eat risotto on the street, they'll look at you askance.
1:15:00
Because food is sacred to us. We eat sitting down, calmly, perhaps with a divine glass of wine. We don't rush, we don't work, we don't walk. We savor the moment. Perhaps this is the true essence of Italy. It's not just the beauty, but the way of life. Slow, passionate, noisy, a little chaotic, but authentic. And in this spirit, let's move on to the conclusion of this long, pleasant journey together. Thank you so much for listening today. We hope this podcast has helped you
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practice your listening skills, immerse yourself in natural Italian, and maybe even share a smile with us. We talked about so many things: our typical day, work, free time, friends, family, travel, and some typically Italian trivia. And we hope that, while listening, you felt like you were sitting in a café with two friends chatting. And if you enjoyed this episode and would like to hear more like it—long, relaxed, full of authentic Italian—we ask you a small favor.
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Like this video. It really helps our channel grow. And if you haven't already, subscribe so you don't miss future episodes. Every week we publish new conversations on different topics: travel, shopping, city life, Italian traditions, all in simple and natural Italian. And turn on the notification bell so you'll be notified every time we publish a new video. Oh, and one last thing. Leave us a comment. Tell us a little about yourself. For example, what's
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your typical day like? Or where would you like to travel in Italy? Or simply, what did you like most about this podcast? We love reading your messages. So, it's time to say goodbye. Thanks again for spending this hour with us. We know that learning a language isn't always easy, but every minute you spend listening, every word you understand, every phrase you repeat, brings you one step closer to your goal.
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And remember, you don't have to understand everything right away, just listen. Let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the language, and over time you'll see that Italian will become more and more familiar, like a voice you know well, accompanying you throughout your day. See you soon, and happy Italian practice! Bye bye from Alessia. And bye bye from Giovanni.
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