Coucou everyone!
Europhile is 5 years old! We are so lucky to have this space, and to learn and share together - we are raising our coupes to many more episodes, experiences, and to growing this beautiful community that we cherish <3
We are back from our summer holiday in Greece, so humor us as we re-live Athens and the islands, life-changing food, unforgettable sights, and our bountiful shopping hauls. Then we chat what we've been reading and watching this summer. Let us know what you've been consuming!
Islands we travelled to: Sifnos, Folegandros, Milos
Honorable mention restaurants: Athens - Stani, Manari, Diporto, Taverna Oikonomou, Atlantikos; Sifnos - Loggia, Cantina; Folegandros - Irene's, Spina, O Psaromiligkas
Our favorite traditional Greek dishes and drinks we enjoyed (that were new to us): fava (pureed yellow split peas), eggplant imam, chorta, spoon sweets, kolokithopita (zucchini pie), portokalopita (orange cake), Fix beer with sea salt, freddo espresso/cappuccino
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Before we step out on our 2 month vacanza, would you like to take a stroll through the gardens with us? More specifically, some French and English gardens in the 17th and 18th centuries? How capital! We explore the fads of the French - geometric garden beds, perfectly manicured trees, and man's triumph over nature, as well as the more romantic preferences of the Brits - winding paths, secret nooks, and faux-historic buildings. Kate then shares the Palestinian history behind the British tea time delicacy - the Jaffa cake. Free Palestine <3
Please donate to Palestinian families in need if you are able via Operation Olive Branch
Main topic sources:
French formal garden - Wikipedia
The french formal garden - Gaia Ferro Forgiato
HISTORY OF IDEAS - French & English Gardens
History of English Gardens - brief overview from Mike Bogatyrev
English landscape garden - Wikipedia
French Garden vs. English Garden: Which Is for You? | Airtasker US
Mini topic sources:
JP McMahon: Jaffa Cakes: An Oblique History
Jaffa Cakes- Definitely not biscuits
Kate's recommendation: Akub - Palestinian restaurant, London
Catherine's recommendation: Victoria Beckham contour stylus
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
You’ve heard the Disney versions — but the original tales? Not quite the same. In this episode of Europhile, we dive into the haunting, bizarre, and surprisingly spiritual world of Hans Christian Andersen. From a mermaid who gives everything up and turns into sea foam, to a thumb-sized girl nearly forced to marry a mole, to a mysterious Snow Queen who’s more misunderstood than evil - these are not the stories you thought you knew. No happy endings. Just heartbreak, symbolism, and some of the darkest plots in European fairy tale history. Catherine then tells us about the Scandiavian concept of Logam. Listen now for a fairytale reframe you won’t forget!
Main topic sources:
Hans Christan Andersen's Fairy Tales
Mini topic sources:
Lagom: The Swedish Work-Life Balance Philosophy
Kate's recommendation: Italian orzata/Latte di Mandorla syrup
Catherine's recommendation: Pimm's cup
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Happy (belated) Pride! Let's chat about the iconic and controversial (to say the least) writer, journalist, actress, and mime - Colette. Whether it was causing a riot for kissing a woman on-stage at the Moulin Rouge, writing novels about women living under the patriarchy, or pioneering the face lift, Colette did things her own way. Kate then shares the history and etiquette of the delightfully cute French custom - la bise. Bisou bisou!
Main topic sources:
Colette: The most beloved French writer of all time
The Brilliance of Colette, a Novelist Who Prized the Body Over the Mind | The New Yorker
Colette at 150: why the scandalous 20th-century writer remains a revered literary figure in France
Colette - French Women & Feminists in History: A Resource GuideColette Revolutionized French Literature With Her Depictions of Female Desire
Colette | French Writer & Feminist Icon | Britannica
Merci, Colette: How the Legendary French Author Continues to Inspire
Mini topic sources:
Kate's recommendation: "Thank You, Next" (2024) Turkish show on Netflix
Catherine's recommendation: Camille Aubray's novels
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
What happens when you can't trust Russia or the United States? Who do you turn to? You turn to......Mexico??? In Yugoslavia, that's exactly what happened during the 1950s. This week Kate tells us about the Yu-Mex music genre. Catherine then tells us about the Slavic myth, The Tree of Life. So pour yourself some tequila or rakija and let's say 'salud' to our newest episode!
Main topic sources:
Youtube: Yu-Mex - Yugoslav Mexico
Mini topic sources:
Kate's recommendation:
Catherine's recommendation: Tuna Caprese salad, the perfect Italian summer lunch!
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Mushroom hunting is a centuries-old pastime in Poland and has seen a huge resurgence in recent years. However, it is not to be trifled with! It's taken very seriously, with many different recipes, superstitions, and family secrets tied in. So grab your wicker basket, and let's forage! Then, Kate tells a Polish folk tale that will surely give you the chills.
Main topic sources:
Poland’s passionate fungal love affair - Cherwell
A Tradition as Old as Time: Mushroom Picking in Poland | Article | Culture.pl
Why Are Poles So Obsessed With Mushroom Picking? | Article | Culture.pl
POLISH MUSHROOM HUNTING TRADITION
Traditions of Mushroom Hunting in Poland - by Val Alcorn
A Mushroom Proverb and Preferences in Poland
Mini topic sources:
Kate's recommendation: Alp Blossom Cheese
Catherine's recommendation: LIE WITH ME novel by Philippe Besson
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Main topic sources:
In this episode, we dive into the world of the Paninari - a flashy, fashion obsessed youth subculture that emerged in 1980s Milan. Named after the sandwich shop (Al Panino in Milan) they frequented, Paninari were known for their love of designer brands, American fast food, scooters, and synth-pop. We explore how this movement reflected Italy’s shifting cultural landscape during a time of economic boom and American influence. Cat then tells us about the some papal drama - a dead corpse on trial anyone? Weirder things have happened but this might be up there!
Main topic sources:
Mini topic sources:
Eight of the worst popes in church history | CNN Pope Stephen VI - Wikipedia
Kate's recommendation: Alpine Bloom Cheese
Catherine's recommendation: Manicurist nailpolish
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Pinkies up, its time for high tea! Put on the kettle and settle in for a tour of English, Russian, and Turkish tea culture, but first we travel to China to learn about its origins thousands of years ago. We also dissect the history of a couple famous blends, and share the difference between English, Irish, and Scottish breakfast tea - because we know you're just dying to know!
Main topic sources:
How tea conquered Britain - BBC Bitesize
The history of afternoon tea - a great British tradition
Samovar - Russian Studies - Macalester College
The Russian tea tradition - La Via del Tè
RUSSIAN TEA & TEA PARTY CULTURE
Polish and Greek tea cultures – Balkan Hotspot.
The Difference Between English, Irish and Scottish Breakfast Teas | The Kitchn
A Brief History About The Russian Caravan Tea - Teabox
The History of Tea and Twinings
Mini topic sources:
Kate's recommendation:
Catherine's recommendation: "A Heart Worth Stealing" book by Joanna Barker
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
We are thrilled to announce we will be partnering with the Milwaukee Film Festival to show the 2024 film "Four Mothers," directed by Darren Thornton! With us today to chat all about the festival is Kerstin Larson, the film festival's Programming Director. Milwaukee Film Festival Info here!
In this episode, step into the glittering, decadent world of Oscar Wilde—playwright, poet, and provocateur. The episode is a spirited romp through the life and legacy of one of history’s most flamboyant and fearless figures. From the velvet salons of Victorian London to the scandalous trials that shocked a nation, we unravel Wilde’s brilliance, barbs, and heartbreaks. Join us as we toast to the Anglo-Irish king of one-liners and dive deep into the triumphs and tragedies behind the legend.
Main topic sources:
Poetry Foundation: Oscar Wilde
Canterbury Classics Books: Oscar Wilde Quotes
Kate's recommendation: "A Walk in the Clouds" (1995) directed by Alfonso Arau
Catherine's recommendation: The Whisper Man by Alex North
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Pop a bottle of the yellow label - this week we venture to France to talk about the fearless entrepreneur, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin or La Veuve Clicquot. We discuss her life and influence on the Champagne industry that is still felt today. Then Catherine tells us about the origins of the Fleur-de-Lis. Santé, salut and listen in! Cheers!
Main topic sources:
The Widow Who Created the Champagne Industry
The Science of Champagne, the Bubbling Wine Created By Accident
Mini topic sources:
Ancient Symbol Fleur-de-lis: It’s Meaning And History Explained
Kate's recommendation: "The Witch's Heart" by Genevieve Gornichec
Catherine's recommendation: Edmond Fallot mustard
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Welcome to our first tête-à-tête episode! We just wanted to take some time to chat about Catherine's recent trip to Paris, and Kate's latest obsession: Parthenope (2024) directed by Paolo Sorrentino. Let us know if you're into this type of ep - because lord knows we have PLENTY of other things to yap about. Ciao!
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
In our newest episode we dive into the life of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a little girl who lost her family in war and was taken to England. She later befriended Queen Victoria, who provided her with an allowance and paid for her education. Her life was no means easy, but Sarah stayed witty, charming, talented, and outspoken despite forcefully leaving her home, facing racism and discrimination, and suffering from lifelong illness. Cynthia Erivo has also recently announced that she will be bringing Sarah’s story to life on the silver screen - we can’t wait to learn more about her!
Main topic sources:
Sarah Forbes Bonetta | Biography, Photo, Aina, Husband, & Queen Victoria | Britannica
The African Princess Sarah Forbes Bonetta (1843-1880)
Sarah Forbes Bonetta, Queen Victoria’s African Protégée
Mini topic sources:
Kate's recommendation: "The Wolf Den" by Elodie Harper
Catherine's recommendation: Marvis toothpaste
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Welcome to the first episode of our "Films that Raised Us" series! One of the film's that inspired us (Kate especially) was Roman Holiday. A true Old Hollywood classic that catapulted the enchanting Audrey Hepburn into the spotlight, Roman Holiday is a feast for the senses despite being filmed in Black & White. We laugh, we cry - it has it all and more. So hop on our mint green Vespa 125 and let's go to the sidewalk cafe, order a champagne and do whatever we like - all day long!
Main topic sources:
‘Roman Holiday’ At 70: Fathom Events Celebrates The Classic Romantic Comedy
Edith Head's 'Roman Holiday' Costumes Made Audrey Hepburn An Instant Star | HuffPost Life
vespa and the movies: an immortal love story.
Roman Holiday locations in Rome: Complete guide
Lot 175 - Audrey Hepburn's Edith Head-designed ivory
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Happy Holidays from your favorite European-obsessed girlies! What could be more magical during the holiday season than seeing The Nutcracker ballet! Ugh those sugarplum fairies! This episode we are thrilled be joined by Kate's brother Eli, who is a ballet stage manager at the Houston City Ballet, to share the history of the Nutcracker. All from its early days as an unpopular German book, to the controversial composer who brought it to the US in the 1950's, and to present day adaptations. Eli also dives into the world of ballet - both its beauty and its flaws. We love you, Eli!
Eli's recommendation: Cosmo Sheldrake and "The Turning Pointe" by Chloe Angyal
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
“I will not be defeated by a bad man and an American stick insect...instead I choose vodka...and...Chaka Khan;" spoken from the mouth of Bridget Jones - our friend, our icon, our inspiration, our dose of reality! We hope you enjoy this deep dive into the world of Bridget, including learning about the original column and book, life in the '90s as a modern woman, Bridget's stoic vulnerability, and the Jane Austen of it all! Grab your bunny ears, cigarettes, and mini skirts and let's pay homage to our beloved Bridge. Hellooo, mummy!
Main topic sources:
Facts You Didn't Know About The Bridget Jones Books And Films
Margaret Thatcher tops Woman's Hour Power List - BBC News
Bridget Jones's Diary (2001) - IMDb
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
In this episode, we discuss the hilarious, raunchy, and politically-conscious comedy about a woman-led sex strike in Ancient Greece - The Lysistrata by Aristophanes. Cat then tells us about the Mati or evil eye - of course, it's blue for a reason! So grab a cup of Greek coffee and join us to go to Greece! Opa!
Main topic sources:
Brittanica: the Lysistrata
Mini topic sources:
The History of the Evil Eye, an Ancient Symbol of Protection
EVERYTHING ABOUT THE GREEK MATI - EVIL EYE
Greek Evil Eye: 6 Tips to Avert the ‘Mati’
Kate's recommendation: "Rivals," (2024)
Catherine's recommendation: L'Occitane Dry Shampoo Mist
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Women getting accused of witchcraft for pissing off men? A tale as old as time. Tune in to hear about 4 medieval women who were either too caring, too wealthy, too ambitious, or too in love for their worlds, and suffered greatly because of it. Then, we take a right turn and learn all about Les Alpes festival, which may be the cutest celebration to ever exist!
Main topic sources:
Valentina Visconti - Waiting for justice - History of Royal Women
Veronika of Desenice - Wikipedia
Joan of Navarre, Queen of England | English Heritage
Eleanor Cobham: The Duchess and her Downfall – Susan Higginbotham
Mini topic sources:
Switzerland's Cow Parade & Its History
Rick Steves: September Cow Descent
My Switzerland: Cattle Descent
Kate's recommendation: Disclaimer, 2024 (Apple TV)
Catherine's recommendation: Adenah perfume oil *gifted*
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
We are so happy to have our dear friend Clare Wright of the Sunday Scaries horror film club (@sundayscariesfilm) on the pod to talk all about giallo - the Italian horror film subgenre. Focusing on giallo films from the 1960s and '70s, Clare breaks down 3 major themes, each with a film and director to match. What we love about giallo films are their iconic use of color, fashion, and music - those Italians are so stylish! Thank you Clare for sharing your passion with us <3
Be sure to check out Sunday Scaries on IG and TikTok!
Main topic sources:
Giallo Films Explained — Italian Horror, Argento, Bava & Beyond
Clare's recommendation: The "Giallo!" film collection on Criterion
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Note on some links, we may be able to earn commission. Please support us if you can!
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Today's episode is all about the FABULOUS Anita Ekberg, including her rise to fame, her iconic roles, her diva behavior, and her famous boyfriends. Whether she was hopping on the back of a stranger's motorcycle at a film premier, shooting a bow and arrow at paparazzi, or flouncing in the Trevi Fountain, she did it with flair. Then Kate shares why some candy in Scandinavia is for adults only....and its not for the reason you think ;)
Main topic sources:
Anita Ekberg scared the pope & scandalized the world.. La Dolce Vita
The bitter life of Anita Ekberg who scandalised the world and scared the Pope
Mini topic sources:
Vogue Scandinavia: Why Are We So Obsessed with Licorice in Scandinavia?
Kate's recommendation: Kolsvart Swedish Candy
Catherine's recommendation: Typology glow drops
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Note on some links, we are able to earn commission. Please support us if you can!
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!
Coucou everyone!
Upon the passing of Queen Elizabeth, as per custom, the bees were informed of her passing. This tradition of "Telling the Bees" stems from Celtic Mythology because bees are our connection to the underworld. Kate tells us about other places in Europe that have a mythological connection to these magical creatures. Catherine then tells us about the legend behind the iconic painting by Konstantin Flavitsky of Princess Tarakanova. So join us and we hope you enjoy!
Main topic sources:
The Sacred Bee of Ancient Greece, Sarah Long
Terra Greca: Honey in Mythology and Ancient Greece
BBC: Are Lithuanians Obsessed with Bees?
History Lists: Beyla: Goddess of Norse Mythology
Buzz About Bees: Goddess of Bees
Owlcation: The Folklore of Bees
Crystal's Honey: Most Common Honey Bee Myths & Folklore
Mini topic sources:
@history_with_amy TikTok
What’s going on in Flavitsky’s famous ‘Princess Tarakanova’ painting? - Russia Beyond
Kate's recommendation: Midnight at the Pera Palace on Netflix
Catherine's recommendation: Kerastase Bain Divalent Balancing Shampoo and Le Fondant Conditioner
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram & Tiktok :)
Cover art and logo by Kate Walker
Mixed and edited by Catherine Roehre
Theme song by Lumehill
Thank you all - ciao!