[B1/B2] In this episode, I continue exploring what Italians really think about their own country — from politics and bureaucracy to lifestyle and culture. You’ll hear real opinions, common expressions, and some surprising perspectives about life in Italy today.
This episode is perfect if you want to:
Understand how Italians see their own country
Learn natural Italian expressions and cultural references
Improve your Italian listening skills in a relaxed, thoughtful way
[B2/C1] What do Italians really think about living in Italy? In this episode, we explore real opinions shared by Italians online — from frustrations with bureaucracy and taxes to reflections on culture, lifestyle, and identity.
This is part one of a mini-series that dives into authentic Italian discussions to help you understand not only the language but also the mindset behind it.
[B1/B2] In this episode, I’ll tell you five mysterious Italian legends — stories full of secrets, ghosts, and old villages.
From Azzurrina, the blue-haired girl of Montebello Castle, to the Devil’s Bridge in Tuscany, each legend reveals a little piece of Italian history and imagination.
It’s a calm and curious journey through Italy’s spooky side — perfect for Halloween or for a quiet evening when you just want to listen and learn something new in Italian. 🌙
[B1] Are you learning Italian and want to dive deeper into Italian culture beyond the usual classics like La vita è bella or Benvenuti al Sud? In this episode of Italiano a modo mio, Cristina shares six lesser-known Italian films that reveal different sides of Italian life — from family dynamics and regional contrasts to humor, immigration, and love.
These films are perfect for intermediate and advanced learners who want to improve their Italian while exploring authentic language, emotions, and everyday situations.
🎥 You’ll hear about:
Johnny Stecchino – Italian irony and wordplay
Parenti serpenti – The (imperfect) Italian family
L’America – Migration and identity
L’amore molesto – Elena Ferrante’s emotional storytelling
Cado dalle nubi – Comedy and cultural contrasts
Le fate ignoranti – Love and diversity in modern Italy
Whether you’re an introvert who learns at your own pace or a curious Italian learner, this episode will inspire you to see Italy through a more genuine lens — one movie at a time.
🎧 Listen, take notes, and find your favorite Italian story!
[A2/B1] In this episode, we reflect on the small, beautiful things in life — those simple moments that warm our hearts and make us smile.
Laughing, cuddling, listening to music, learning something new… how many of these do you recognize in your own life?
A calm and cozy episode for anyone who loves learning Italian naturally and mindfully.
👉 Share your own piccole cose belle with me — I’d love to hear them!
[B1-B2] Learning a new language takes time, and patience is key. In this episode, we explore how embracing patience can transform your Italian learning journey. Discover practical tips to stay motivated, overcome frustration, and celebrate small victories along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or brushing up your skills, this episode will help you develop a mindful and effective approach to learning Italian—step by step.
Tune in and learn how patience can become your greatest language-learning ally!
[B2] In this episode of Italiano a modo mio, we explore one of the most common stereotypes about Italians: that everyone in Italy is deeply religious. Is it really true? You’ll learn about the historical roots of this idea, from the Vatican in Rome to the cultural weight of Catholic traditions. We’ll look at how modern Italian society has changed: fewer people attend church regularly, scandals have weakened trust, and younger generations often see religion more as culture than as faith. Along the way, you’ll discover the difference between tradition and belief, the regional contrasts between North and South, and why being religious can sometimes be associated with bigotry in today’s Italy.
This episode is perfect for learners who want Italian listening practice while deepening their understanding of Italian culture. Follow the podcast for more insights into Italy and the Italian language!
[B1] Discover the story of Viareggio, a beautiful seaside city in Tuscany, and home to Italy’s most spectacular Carnival! In this Italian podcast episode (B1 level), you’ll learn about the origins of Viareggio, how the city grew from swamps to a famous seaside resort, and the history behind its incredible Carnival floats. From the invention of papier-mâché giants to the creation of Burlamacco, Viareggio’s iconic mask, this episode is a journey through Italian history, culture, and tradition.
This episode is perfect for learners of Italian who want listening practice while exploring authentic Italian culture. Improve your vocabulary, listening skills, and cultural knowledge in a natural and engaging way.
Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more episodes!
[A2] In this episode, we decode the hidden meaning of Italian time expressions ⏰: “alle 10,” “per le 10,” “in mattinata,” and even the classic “sto arrivando!” Learn how Italians really use time, why being late isn’t disrespectful, and how to survive appointments with a smile. Perfect for intermediate learners who want both language practice and cultural insight!
[A2] Join me as I share my giornata tipo — my typical day as an Italian freelancer living by the sea. From yoga and moka coffee to teaching Italian students worldwide, walking my dog, and relaxing in the evening, you’ll discover real-life Italian routines while practicing your listening skills.
[B2] What will everyday life look like in 2040? In this episode, I take you on a journey into the future to explore how artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainability will transform the way we live, work, and connect with each other.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
✅ The future of work – remote work as the new normal, automation, and emerging green economy jobs
✅ Smart homes – houses that learn your habits, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly living
✅ Future food – lab-grown meat, insects, algae, and sustainable diets
✅ Mobility of tomorrow – autonomous cars, electric transport, and cleaner cities
✅ Personalized healthcare – AI-driven prevention, medical robotics, and biotechnology
👉 At the end, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Connect with me on Instagram [@italiano_concristina] or visit my website [dilloinitaliano.com].
[B2] Join me as I share a unique Western traveler’s experience exploring Kenya’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and iconic safari adventures. Learn about the relaxed “pole pole” lifestyle, the challenges of local tourism including beach boys, and the powerful “Mal d’Africa” feeling that connects travelers to Africa’s spirit.
[B1] Were you a Millennial kid growing up in Italy? Or just curious about what childhood was like before smartphones and social media?
In this episode, I'll take you you on a nostalgic trip through the Italian Millennial childhood — from small families and overprotective parents, to magical toys like Tamagotchi and My Little Pony, and the early days of the internet and iconic TV shows like Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball.
🎮 Discover what made growing up in the ’90s and early 2000s in Italy so unique.
📺 Whether you’re learning Italian or simply love cultural stories, this episode is full of warm memories, cultural insights, and relatable moments.
My Website: https://dilloinitaliano.com
Instagram italiano_concristina
[B1/B2] Tuscany is one of the most iconic regions in Italy — but what exactly makes it so captivating? In this episode, Cristina takes you on a journey through Tuscany’s breathtaking landscapes, Renaissance masterpieces, perfectly preserved medieval villages, world-famous wines, and rich artisanal traditions.
You’ll learn surprising facts (like where cypress trees really come from!) and discover why Tuscany continues to enchant visitors from around the globe.
Whether you’ve been to Tuscany or dream of visiting one day, this episode is your perfect Italian escape.
🎧 Ideal for learners of Italian who love culture and history.
My Website: https://dilloinitaliano.com
Instagram italiano_concristina
[B1] Discover 7 everyday Italian expressions related to food!
In this episode of the podcast Italiano a modo mio, I explain the meaning and origins of popular idioms like:
To be good as bread (essere buono come il pane)
To give back pan for focaccia (rendere pan per focaccia)
Like cabbage at snack time (c’entra come i cavoli a merenda)
To have prosciutto on your eyes (avere il prosciutto sugli occhi)
To end with tarallucci and wine (finire a tarallucci e vino)
To be like parsley (essere come il prezzemolo)
To put too much meat on the fire (mettere troppa carne al fuoco)
These expressions will enrich your Italian and help you understand Italian culture better — especially Italians’ special relationship with food!
👉 Which expression is your favorite? How do you say it in your language? Share in the comments!
[B1] What is la dolce vita, really? In this episode, we go beyond movies and clichés to discover the true meaning of the Italian lifestyle. I’ll share stories, cultural insights, and the testimony of an American who’s been living in Florence for 15 years — and how it changed his view on time, work, and happiness.
You’ll learn:
– Why slowing down doesn’t mean being lazy
– How “quality over quantity” shapes Italian life
– Why food is more than fuel — it’s culture
– How beauty is part of everyday life
– And whether la dolce vita still exists today (it does, but… it’s complicated)
[B2] In this episode, I’ll tell you the true and fascinating story of Michel Siffre — a French scientist who, in 1972, chose to live underground for six months, in complete darkness, with no sunlight, no clock, and no human contact.
An extreme experiment to understand how our brain perceives time when it loses all external references. What happens to our mind when we have no idea what time it is? And how long can we endure isolation?
We’ll talk about:
– How the brain creates its own sense of time
– The psychological risks of extreme solitude
– Siffre’s biological rhythm: 36 hours awake, 12 hours asleep
– The emotional and mental consequences of the experiment
– The scientific discoveries that came from his sacrifice
At the end, I’ll ask you some big questions:
Could you survive in such conditions? What is time, really? Is it real… or is it just a creation of our mind?
🧠 A powerful story, perfect for practicing your Italian… and for thinking deeply.
🎧 Episode 1 – Who I am and why this podcast exists
🇬🇧 In this first episode, I’ll tell you a bit about myself and why I decided to create Italiano a modo mio.
I’m Cristina, I’ve been teaching Italian online for four years, and I’m lucky enough to meet students from all over the world.
After many lessons, I’ve realized something important: there’s no perfect method — but there is a way that works for you.
In this podcast, we’ll talk about the Italian language and culture, but also about psychology, personal growth, science, technology, and much more.
This is a space for curious, introverted, and thoughtful learners — those who love learning by listening.
I’ll also share bits of my life: yoga, nature, the languages I study (English and Hungarian), and my love for books, movies, and quiet moments.
In the meantime, you can check out my website dilloinitaliano.com, or find me on Instagram: @italiano_concristina.
[B1] Episode 2 – Strategies for Introverts When Italian
🇬🇧 In this episode, I talk about a topic I know well: how to face the challenge of speaking Italian when you’re an introvert.
Many people think introversion is a barrier to language learning — but that’s not true! On the contrary, if you’re reflective, attentive, and sensitive, you have many strengths you can use to your advantage.
This episode offers practical strategies to:
– Prepare for conversations without pressure
– Take a gradual approach that respects your pace
– Practice on your own with reading aloud and imagined dialogues
– Choose your language partners carefully
– Use “rescue phrases” when you feel stuck
– Let go of perfectionism and focus on effective communication
I’ll also share some of the superpowers of introverts: listening, observing, and speaking with more awareness.
Being introverted isn’t a weakness — it’s just a different (and totally valid) way of learning.
💬 If even one of these tips resonates with you, send me a message on Instagram: @italiano_concristina. I’d love to hear from you!