In this conversation, we explore their journey from theatre to how they came together to form Nìula—a duo that offers modern reinterpretations of the traditional oral music of Southern Italy and the wider Mediterranean basin.

Drawing from a repertoire of polyvocal songs, they compose original music that bridges the ancient and the contemporary, and connect us across time, place, and language.They lead concerts and singing workshops across Italy & online for both amateurs and professionals, focusing on the connective power of sound, the awareness of breath, and the rediscovery of each person’s unique voice.

🎧 Join us at La Befana’s Table and step into the mystery of Nìula’s music—and the story of two people finding each other through song.

📬 Get in Touch / Learn More🌐 Website: niula-cantidalsud.com/online-workshops-niula📸 Instagram: @niula.trad

✨ Special Discount for La Befana’s Table listeners: Maria & Francesco are offering a discount on their upcoming singing workshops.

6 sessions1st April - 6th May 2026Wednesdays, 10:30 am - PDT / 1:30 pm - EDT / 7:30 pm - CEST

Details are linked below—step into the sound and your own voice!

In celebration of Commedia dell’Arte Day (February 25th), Chiara brings us into the vibrant, irreverent, deeply human world of Commedia — a 16th-century Italian theatrical form that gave us archetypes still alive in today’s sitcoms, satire, and street performance.

Together, we explore:

* Why February 25, 1545 marks the birth of professional Western theatre

* How Commedia introduced women performers to the stage

* Archetypes like the Capitano and the clever servants that still show up in modern comedy

* The political satire and improvisational spirit at the heart of Commedia

* Why exaggeration, masks, and “being too much” can be deeply healing

* The evolutionary joy of improvisation and play

* And of course… how La Befana found her way to Boston (and YouTube)

This conversation is about folklore, embodiment, creative courage, and the radical act of not taking ourselves too seriously — especially in absurd times.

🎭 About Chiara Durazzini

Chiara Durazzini (she/her), a native of Florence, Italy, moved to Boston in 2000.

She is the founder of:

* Pazzi Lazzi Troupe — a Boston-based Commedia dell’Arte and Italian Renaissance music troupe for which she performs, teaches, and directs.

* All’italiana – Boston Italian Theatre Company — staging works by Italian playwrights and offering acting labs in Italian for both native and non-native speakers.

Chiara has written, acted in, and directed original works including:

* Isabella Unmasked – The Legacy of an Italian Renaissance Woman (2017)

* Pinocchio – A Commedia Adventure (2020)

She has also staged celebrated plays including:

* Oh These Ghosts by Eduardo De Filippo

* La Giara – The Oil Jar by Luigi Pirandello

Her performance credits include work with Company One Theatre and Apollinaire Theatre Company.

She trained with actors of Odin Teatret and studied extensively Commedia dell’Arte with Master Claudia Contin Arlecchino in Pordenone, Italy.

These days, she also dances with Salmadanse (directed by choreographer Joanie Block), works as an Italian voice-over artist and teacher — and, in secret (or not so secret anymore), she is the renowned Befana di Boston.

She holds a Master’s degree in Art, Music and Theatre from the University of Bologna.

🔗 Connect with Chiara

🌐 www.pazzilazzitroupe.com📘 https://www.facebook.com/PazziLazzi📸 https://www.instagram.com/pazzilazzi/

If you are in the Boston area, look out for upcoming workshops, Commedia labs, and performances

💬 Table Talk

Where might exaggeration, play, or improvisation soften something in your life right now?

Upcoming Happenings

Festa Della Donna is a Variety Show kicking off Women’s History Month celebrating Italian-American Female contributions to the Arts.

It continues its 7th Year Tradition featuring the most talented Donne in Music, Dance, Comedy & Beyond. Don’t miss it!

Doors at 2:30pm. Show at 3

Approx Running Time: 75 MinutesGenre: Classic Music, Italian Heritage, Storytelling

Please Note: The venue has a 2-beverage minimum per person.

#BeBefana

Always be yourself. Unless you can be befana. Then #BeBefana

Epiphanies, don’t arrive all at once. They arrive gently over time. They whisper to us—if we are paying attention.

The #BeBefana campaign was born from listening to that whisper.

Inspired by the ancient Italian legend of La Befana and my real life experience animating a puppet of this folkloric figure through the streets of New York City during the pandemic, the #BeBefana campaign is a quiet signal to ourselves and to others that another way of being—and doing—is possible.

To #BeBefana is to believe that small, faithful acts matter. To sweep the floor, light the fire, offer welcome, leave a gift—and trust that in the darkest of days love persists, that our stories are never fully written, and that there is always room for a whimsical & wondrous plot twist.

10 percent of profits will be donated to the Young Center For Immigrant Children’s Rights.

La Befana's Table is a reader/listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support the work of La Befana’s Table consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Dr. Washington is the curator of Urban Stomp: Dreams & Defiance on the Dance Floor at the Museum of the City of New York, a groundbreaking exhibition tracing more than 200 years of social dance history and expanding who—and what—belongs in museum spaces.

Together, Dina and Derrick reflect on the transformative power of movement, the cultural stories held within social dance, and how dancing can connect communities, transcend barriers, and affirm human dignity.

Pull up a chair at La Befana’s Table for a conversation about freedom, joy, and belonging—expressed through the body in motion.

This week at La Befana’s Table, Dina is joined by Mario the Maker Magician—a world-touring performer celebrated for his one-of-a-kind family theater show bursting with handmade robotics, art, invention, and a big dose of hilarity. Mario has appeared on The Tonight Show, Sesame Street, and recently returned from a sold-out run at the Sydney Opera House. This month, his show lights up New York City’s New Victory Theater.

In this episode:

* Mario shares his journey as a first-generation Italian American, reflecting on family traditions, the importance of roots, and how his heritage shapes his work and life.

* Heartfelt stories about growing up in New York, Sunday family meals, and the sacredness of food and togetherness.

* The influence of Mario’s grandfather—a tailor in Italy—on his creative, “maker” identity, and the magic of using what you have to create something special.

* Mario’s path from struggling student to artist, musician, and ultimately, magician, including the pivotal moments and mentors who inspired him.

* The evolution of his family business with his wife, Katie, and the leap of faith that led them to build a unique, joyful show for kids and families.

* Reflections on creativity, surrendering to the journey, and the importance of doing what you love, using what you have, and having fun.

* Insights into the creative process, the value of storytelling, and the power of focusing on the good in a noisy world.

Where to Catch Mario the Maker Magician

* Catch Mario at the New Victory Theater on 42nd Street, NYC. November 15th-30th

* London listeners: Mario will be performing at Underbelly Boulevard in December and January.

Upcoming Happenings

December 26th -January 6th

The 12 Days of Befana is a series of personal stories from guest contributors exploring the themes of kindness, welcome, tradition, belonging, and the sacred in everyday life. Inspired by the legend of Italy’s legendary La Befana—and by my own experience bringing this folkloric character to life in the streets of New York during the pandemic—the 12 Days of Befana is a celebration of a living legend, woven from the true stories of our lives.

The deadline to submit is December 10th.

This week at La Befana’s Table, we’re joined by the brilliant Steve Cerulli—PhD student at Fordham University and Italian American diaspora specialist, and myth-buster extraordinaire.

In honor of Italian American Heritage Month, Steve takes us on a whirlwind tour through the history of Italian migration to the Americas, from the earliest explorers to the waves of Southern Italians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We talk about how “Italian-American” identity was forged abroad, the realities of assimilation (or lack thereof), and why so many of the stories we tell ourselves are, well, a little bit of fiction.

Key Themes:

* Who Counts as Italian-American?Steve explains how early migrants identified more with their regions (Sicilian, Neapolitan, etc.) than with a unified “Italy”—and how the diaspora itself helped create a new identity.

* The “We Came Here Legally” Myth:Spoiler: It was basically open borders for much of Italian migration history. Steve breaks down why this narrative is both inaccurate and often weaponized against today’s immigrants.

* Assimilation & Return Migration:Did Italian immigrants really “become American” overnight? Not so fast. Steve shares stats and stories about return migration, language barriers, and the complex reality of assimilation.

* Organized Crime, Radicalism, and Respectability:From bootleggers to labor organizers, Steve unpacks the real (and sometimes uncomfortable) history of Italian-American communities—beyond the sanitized “good immigrant” myth.

* Columbus Day & Its True Origins:Think Columbus Day was created to honor Italian-Americans after the New Orleans lynching? Think again. Steve traces the holiday’s roots

* Education & Breaking Stereotypes:Steve shares his latest research on Italian-American educators, busting the myth that Italian-Americans don’t value education.

Share this episode with anyone who loves history, heritage, and a good conversation over a strong espresso.

Comment below: What’s a myth about your heritage you wish more people would question?

Show Your Support: Become a monthly Gift Giver or buy us a virtual espresso to keep the conversations & stories flowing.

❤️ Much love and many blessings from La Befana’s Table to yours! ❤️

Greetings from La Befana’s Table and welcome to another edition of Espresso Yourself — Unfiltered musings meant to warm the heart and stir the Soul.

In today’s edition of Espresso Yourself I share some of what is coming up for me in light of the passing of Pope Francis, a little bit about my own spiritual journey, and what I’ve learned about showing up

🎙️Episode References

Revolution of Tenderness Clip from my Tedx “Heroines Show Up”

And what is tenderness? It is the love that comes close and becomes real. It is a movement that starts from our heart and reaches the eyes, the ears and the hands. Tenderness means to use our eyes to see the other, our ears to hear the other, to listen to the children, the poor, those who are afraid of the future.To listen also to the silent cry of our common home, of our sick and polluted earth. Tenderness means to use our hands and our heart to comfort the other, to take care of those in need. Pope Francis 2017 Ted Talk

Pope Francis 2017 Ted Talk

My Books

📚Love at the Threshold

“This memoir, studded with poetry and insights, carries the reader through several tumultuous years of the author's life, the people she met and the groups she was in who helped her along the way, her setbacks and breakthroughs, and documents her incredible perseverance in the face of a series of obstacles” G. R. Elmendorf - Amazon Customer Review

📚A Little Book of Questions

In a world that demands immediate answers, sometimes the greatest joy in life is to linger in the questions and let the answers reveal themselves. In A Little Book of Questions Dina has gathered 40 of the questions that have transformed her heart and invites you to linger in them too.

Curious about the journey that inspired the creation of La Befana’s Table?

Check out my 2022 Speaker Salon performance where I first shared story of how a puppet from ancient Italian folklore transformed my story into a living legend.

In today’s edition of Espresso Yourself I share the story of an ornament of a black sheep that I’ve been holding onto for years, an excerpt from Toka Pa Turner’s book Belong, and why I think now more than ever the so called “black sheep” of the family are being called to leads us into new ways of being, doing, and relating.

References

Excerpt from Toko Pa’s book Belong

My self published memoir Love at the Threshold

However you spent Valentines day, we have a special treat for you.

An Enchanting Conversation with Mariana Barcellos

In this conversation, we are honored to be joined by Mariana Barcellos, a luminous presence in the world of Brazilian Bossanova.

In our conversation, Mariana shares insights into her latest musical offering, a heartfelt duo that echoes the heartbeat of human and heavenly love, released just in time for Valentine's Day. These songs invite listeners to immerse themselves in the depth of emotion they evoke.

Reflecting on Love's Intricacies

Mariana and I delve deep into the complexities of love, unpacking its layers of passion, commitment, and transformation. Together, we contemplate the profound impact of self-love on our relationships, recognizing the ripple effect it creates in our interactions with others. We discuss the importance of self-awareness and the alignment of celestial forces in nurturing balanced partnerships, and the ongoing challenge of cultivating and sustaining passion and trust.

In an Ocean of Love

We also explore her album Contos do Mar where Mariana embraces the enigmatic allure of the ocean, finding solace and healing in its mysterious depths and the gifts of love the bring.

Key insights include:

- Exploring the Depths of Love: Mariana Barcellos unveils her latest pair of love songs, capturing the essence of human and heavenly love. Her work, inspired by her personal journey and experiences, offers a fresh, compelling perspective on the varied dimensions love encompasses.

- The Ocean's Melody in Healing and Self-Discovery: Mariana reflects on her own album "Contos do Mar," which pays homage to the ocean as a source of healing and a path to finding oneself. She shares her journey through music and how it’s interlaced with her evolving understanding of love and her identity as a singer-songwriter.

- The Soundtrack to Our Soul's Journey: The episode beautifully ties together music, love, self-reflection, and the larger love story of humanity. Mariana emphasizes the substantial role of contemplation and balance in love, mirroring the natural cycles of the sun and moon.

A Table Set with Love

As we conclude our conversation, we invite you to pull up a seat at the table of love. Here, amidst the melodies and musings, we celebrate the boundless capacity of the human heart to love and be loved.

Connect with Mariana:

Website: http://marianasong.com/#marianasong

Music: https://marianabarcellos.hearnow.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uBDOyRnEtSb0GadfnzB7z?si=HBbyrlvvREmjd0WT8Ahf4w&fbclid=IwAR1cn_x_YYcD79GIC3PHkQOKWIAYWzeW5_XZlmTQJnP8cYZjNIqiPy3ytv8&nd=1&dlsi=63b81d15c29f4907

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.

Blessings,

Dina and Team Befana

Love for cooking

Chef JJ's culinary journey began as therapy for his mind. In the kitchen he found solace in chopping away his worries. His open-mindedness led him to embrace new recipes and unfamiliar ingredients, seeing them as gateways to understanding different cultures. 

Influence and cultural roots

In this episode, Chef JJ talks about his mother's influence on his culinary journey and her traditional Palestinian recipes. He also shares his family background, living in Oman, and his Palestinian roots, expressing his connection to his culture through food.

The Therapeutic and Connective Power of Cooking

We delve into the healing power of cooking and how it helps him stay connected to his roots and the role of food as a form of education & resilience.

Together, we explore the ingredients for a future where there is room for all of us at the table.

🌟 Cultivating Humanity: Chef JJ emphasizes the essential ingredient of humanity in fostering understanding and empathy towards one another. Understanding different perspectives lies at the core of creating a truly inclusive future.

🌟 Open-mindedness and Forgiveness: Through Chef JJ's own experiences and insights, he highlights the transformative power of being open-minded and the importance of forgiveness in paving the way for meaningful conversations and understanding.

🌟 Love and Connection: Chef JJ reminds us that love is an essential ingredient for a harmonious future. Embracing love and nurturing connections with others is vital for building a world that encompasses and uplifts everyone.

Exciting announcement 

Chef JJ is now hosting a series of interactive Middle Eastern cooking classes, where you can learn to prepare delicious and traditional dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Here are the details:

- Chef JJ will guide you through six authentic recipes, including Palestinian and other Middle Eastern cuisines.

- The sessions will be interactive, allowing you to cook alongside Chef JJ or simply watch and learn.

- Prepare to engage in discussions about the history, ingredients, and cultural significance of each dish.

If you're interested in reserving your spot for these special cooking classes, sign up here!! https://bio.site/chefJJ

Connect with Chef JJ:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjjskitchen/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRhi2YOJXtYoXuO6dhRhYA

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table!

Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.

Blessings,

Dina and Team Befana

In today’s episode I’m joined by Mattie Clark, a luminary in the realms of Family Constellations and Convergence, who guides souls toward their true essence.

Mattie takes us on a heartfelt exploration of the concept of "courting convergence," where the integration of our parts leads to surrender and allowing the life force to work its magic, in bringing all aspects of our lives together.

If you remember, we also touched on the topic of convergence with Rebecca GinaMarie in our last episode, where we imagined a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges, through mutual care.

Today, we delve deeper into these ideas, exploring how acknowledging and understanding family dynamics play a pivotal role in in personal and societal change.

So how does acknowledging and understanding family dynamics impact our personal growth?

In this episode, our guest explores this profound question, delving deep into the ways in which our family histories shape our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships. By recognizing the ancestral patterns, beliefs, and behaviors passed down through generations, we gain the power to break free from limiting cycles and chart our own destinies. 

Key takeaways:

* Surrender and Integration: Explore the art of surrender and how integrating different aspects of ourselves can lead to transformative experiences.

* Breaking Limiting Cycles: Understand the power of recognizing and breaking free from generational patterns, beliefs, and behaviors.

* Emotional Alchemy: Discover the transformative potential of emotional alchemy, turning challenging emotions into sources of personal growth.

* Authentic Activism: Learn the importance of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.

By the end of this episode, you'll gain profound insights into the art of surrender, emotional alchemy, and finding your authentic self within the complexities of the world. You'll learn the importance of acknowledging your place in societal structures and discover the power of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.

Learn More About Our Guest:

To learn more about our insightful guest, Mattie Clark, and explore her transformative work, visit her website here!

Interested in courting convergence with Mattie?

7 Thursdays 6-7:30pm EST

October 12th, 19th and 26th - November 2nd, 9th, 16th and 30th

Learn More Here

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table!

Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.

Blessings,

Dina and Team Befana

Today, I have our good friend here Rebecca GinaMarie with me.

In this episode, we dive into the concept of "border stalking" and its significance in promoting empathy, communication, and reconciliation in a divided world. We also discuss the idea of convergence, inclusivity, and the value of beauty and creativity in our lives.

The Great Convergence Zone

We explore the notion of a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of caring for one another, regardless of our differences, and the potential for positive change when we approach collective issues as a unified community.

Overcoming Tribalism and Finding Common Ground

We also delve into the obstacles of overcoming tribalism and stress the necessity of finding common ground with those who hold different beliefs. We highlight the need to envision an inclusive and welcoming future for all and underscore the power of shared positive experiences in building resilience and unity.

The Transformative Power of Unity

Throughout the episode, personal experiences and insights are shared, touching on topics like political polarization, the role of artists in promoting empathy, and the significance of creating spaces for meaningful conversations.

Key Questions for Reflection

* How can we bridge the gap between opposing beliefs and foster understanding?

* What role do artists play in promoting empathy and unity?

* Why is it important to envision a future that is inclusive and welcoming to all?

* How can shared positive experiences build resilience and unity in our society?

* What if we could find common ground and work together to address our collective problems?

* How can we foster understanding, empathy, and cooperation in times of division and polarization?

* What role can each of us play in building a better future for ourselves and future generations?

A Call to Unity

In today's world, where divisions seem to grow deeper, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how we can come together and make a difference. We understand the challenges of navigating a world divided by differing beliefs and ideologies. Join us as we share personal experiences and insights to help you find common ground and foster unity in your own life. It reminds us that, despite our differences, we all share a common humanity and the potential to create a more harmonious society.

Meet Our Lovely Guest

Rebecca Ginamarie is an Italian-Slavic American writer living in Florida. She also works as a communications strategist for human-centered organizations that align their success with the common good. She spends her free time over good books, good jokes, and good games with her neighbors and loved ones. She’s also the writer behind a substack series, “Letters of UltraAzuli”

About Letters of UltraAzuli

“Letters of UltraAzuli”, a forthcoming series of slightly-magical fictional stories.Through culturally-rooted storytelling, the series explores historical and potential future models that illustrate cooperative, democratic societies and tackle potential hurdles to coming together.

You can subscribe to have her free public letters delivered right to your inbox, follow the letters directly on Substack or join her for discussion on Instagram.Sign-up for Email Delivery: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/

Follow on Substack: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/

Thank you for joining us on this episode of "La Befana's Table." We hope you found inspiration and insights into building bridges and finding common ground in our diverse world. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #LaBefanasTable.

If you remember, we had the pleasure of having Jen Violi sit down at La Befana’s Table back in Episode 15. Jen Violi is a remarkable writer, mentor, and facilitator of elemental writing courses. She's the author of the captivating novel "Putting Makeup on Dead People," a finalist for the prestigious Oregon Book Award. Jen has also crafted numerous published essays, short stories, prose poems, and other works of word magic.

Today, we're diving into a new and exciting chapter of Jen's journey – a six-month adventure that will lead us through the heart of fall and winter, exploring the themes of falling apart, decomposing, and ultimately finding renewal in the face of life's natural cycles. This incredible journey is aptly named "Decompose”

Get ready to decompose with Jen Violi as we discuss grief, renewal, and the transformative power of embracing the cycles of life and death.

Important key points that we talked about:

* The importance of recognizing and embracing the inevitability of death and its significance in our lives

* The value of embracing the different seasons in one's life and acknowledging the cyclical nature of growth, decay, and rebirth

* Embracing new stages of life and growth by allowing things to die and transform

* How vulnerability and authenticity open up portals of connection and empathy

* The essence of embracing messiness in writing and the invitation it holds

🎉🎉Join the Elemental Writing Journey🎉🎉

Ready to embrace messiness and deepen your writing journey? Sign up for Jen's elemental writing course and receive a toolkit to enhance your writing experience. Explore different tiers of registration and payment plans to find the right fit for you.

Register by September 15 to receive a special care package and kick off the transformative journey on September 21. Visit jenvioli.com to learn more and sign up.

If you're not ready for this journey yet but want to stay informed about future elemental writing offerings, sign up for her mailing list.

Special Offer for you: Friends of La Befana’s Table who sign up for the course and mention the podcast will receive an exclusive eBook titled "Writing the Moon." This beautifully designed eBook offers prompts, rituals, and insights to deepen your writing practice.

Connect with Jen:

* Website- www.jenvioli.com

* Instagram- @jenvioli

Other links and resources mentioned:

* Episode 15: Writing as a Wholly Embodied Act as a Wholly Embodied Being with Jen Violi

* Putting Makeup on Dead People by Jen Violi (novel)

* Running with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes (book)

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber

Whether you're a supporting subscriber or a free subscriber, I warmly invite you to join us around La Befana’s Table for our monthly community and connection hour which takes place on the first Thursday of each month 7pm EST.

It's always fascinating to learn from people like Melissa Laurita Kohl, who brings such a unique blend of traditions, practices, and magic into their lives. Join us as we sit down with the delightful Melissa, whose journey from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Vermont reveals the transformative power of nature and ancestral connections. 

In this episode, we delve into the world of Melissa Laurita Cole, an inspiring individual who has masterfully intertwined the realms of herbal magic and culinary art. Discover how she masterfully combines her expertise in herbs with her love for comfort food, resulting in dishes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also nurture both body and soul. 

Melissa's story about connecting with her ancestors is truly heartwarming. She talks about her special bond with her great-great aunt Millie, which shows how family ties are something magical. Through making pasta, Melissa bridges generations, respecting her heritage while crafting something fresh and beautiful.

Her journey from city life to nature's embrace and her Italian roots reminds us that there's more than one way to find ourselves. I'm excited to see Melissa keep exploring her unique blend of herbal magic and pasta-making, and I hope her story inspires you to find magic in your own life.

More of what we talked about:

* 9:17 The balance of being a preservationist, preserving the old and embracing the new, and keeping it in a way that is authentic

* 16:16 The history of medicinal herbs in pasta

* 26:19 The importance of making pasta for the healing

* 37:23 The process of letting yourself fall apart and being grateful despite life’s adversaries

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber

dinagregory.substack.com

Have you ever wondered about the role of art in connecting diverse communities and cultures?

Today, I had the distinct honor of engaging in a heartfelt conversation with Tijay Mohammed here in the enchanting ambiance of La Befana's Table.

Tijay is a Bronx-based Ghanaian-born artist who creates site-specific installations, collages, and paintings that explore the heart of his community and the essence of humanity. His interactive art is inspired by “Sankofa,” a Ghanaian Adinkra symbol that means to “learn from the past for a prosperous future” and demonstrates a commitment to community, self-love, and appreciation.

Tijay and I had a serendipitous encounter during a street festival here in Harlem New York, where a chance interaction marked the beginning of a unique bond.

And in this episode, Tijay shares the heartwarming story of his iconic artwork, "Mama Ubuntu," a thought-provoking composition inspired by the Statue of Liberty. From the profound symbolism of the wisdom-laden head wrap to the meticulous detailing of significant individuals who've touched his life, Tijay delves into the symbiotic relationship between his art and its viewers.

He also talks about his series, "The Ache for Home Lives in All of Us," inspired by the story of his daughter and the concept of a safe haven within one's heart. We explore the concept of home, emphasizing that it's not just a physical space, but a feeling within one's heart.

Tijay further enchants us with the tale of the Baobab Tree mosaic, nestled in the embrace of Van Cortlandt Park, and its intention to symbolize unity and peace through broken tiles.

Join us as we uncover the intricate connections between personal stories and shared experiences, the power of symbols, and the collective wisdom that drives art and human interaction.

Tijays's journey as an artist shines a light on the transformative potential of creativity and connection, making this episode a captivating exploration of the human spirit and the art that flows from it.

Celebrate yourself and join Tijay for his ongoing exhibition at the Casita Center Maria for Arts & Education! More details here!

Today, I have an extraordinary conversation to share with you with the talented artist, Victoria Haf.

Born in 1988, Victoria hails from Mexico City. Her journey took a fascinating turn when she married and became a mother in Calabria, Southern Italy. Today, she resides in the quaint town of Motta Filocastro, where she is learning from the old tradition of mutual aid in one of the poorest regions of Europe.

In this conversation, we touched on various topics, including her family history, the richness of land, and her work in the realm of "magia agreste," a form of devotion through art. We also delved into the significance of collective healing, the role of grief and mourning in the journey of renewal, and the importance of building genuine connections within a community.

Victoria's story is truly inspiring and reminds us of the importance of staying connected, embracing our roots, and finding healing through art and devotion.

Key points from this episode:

* 7:52 How Calabria has shown Victoria, God. The journey of finding her place in the diaspora, finding the capacity to grow what she feels is a void in her relationship.

* 28:07 Seeing the world through the eyes of a senior citizen

* 36:46 The story of Gigante Heads (her art)

* 45:08 Magical realism in Calabria

* 52:08 Calabria as a treasure, keeping traditions alive and healing her in so many ways

Connect with Victoria

Website: https://magiagreste.wordpress.com

IG: @magia.agreste

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber

dinagregory.substack.com

Franck's life motto, "Life is Now," became a powerful message he wanted to spread through his gift of dance. He believes that dancing is not just a form of self-expression but also a means of sharing love and joy with others.

Join us for this inspiring conversation that will make you appreciate thee beauty of dance and the importance of living in the now. Franck's profound insights remind us that life is a precious gift that we should cherish and make the most of, embracing each moment with joy and humility. So, let's dance to the rhythm of life!

🔥Join the Hottest Salsa Performance Training Series with Franck Muhel!🔥

Mark your calendars for July 23rd, 2023, and every Sunday thereafter, as we invite you to join the highly anticipated Salsa Performance Training Series led by the renowned dance maestro, Franck Muhel!

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry! To get all the juicy details and secure your spot in the series, simply click here!

Franck Muhel's performances are renowned for their dynamic creative energy that inspires and electrifies audiences all over the world. As principal dancer with Eddie Torres, the Mambo King, and featured soloist, Franck has performed and choreographed with internationally acclaimed orchestras: Eddie Torres Mambo Kings Orchestra, Mitch Frohman Latin Jazz Quartet, Mambo Legends , Eddie Montalvo Band, Bobby Sanabria and more. 

Franck Muhel can be seen in the famous movie Warner Bros Pictures. “In The Heights”

Key points from this episode:

* 4:38 The role of humility in dance

* 14:44 Learning to appreciate every second of life

* 24:00 The connection between dance and developing the sixth sense

* 30:00 How to stay open to the moment as a dancer

* 39:53 Energy is all about everything in life

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber

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Irma shares her journey of discovering and embracing her Puerto Rican roots, and how it led her to become The Coquito Lady. Through her story, we explore the power of food and drinks in connecting with our heritage and preserving traditions.

Join us as we dive into Irma’s experiences, memories, and her mission to share her culture with the world.

Know more about Coquito Lady here.

Key takeaways from this episode:

2:04 Culture served on ice. Irma reflects on her mission to preserve and celebrate her Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage through her beverages

6:43 Rediscovering Cultural Heritage

16:05 The importance of not taking oneself too seriously and finding joy in shared experiences

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and/or becoming a Supporting Subscriber

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Join me as we delve into a deep and transformative conversation with Elisa, exploring the journey of embracing one's true self and the significance of becoming the elder we longed for. Elisa's unique perspective, combined with her powerful presence, offers listeners a fresh and inspiring outlook on personal growth and connection.

Know more about Elisa here.

Key takeaways from this episode:

* 6:11 Life's unexpected events often lead to a need for change in identity, inviting us to embrace new levels of initiation and foster a shared understanding.

* 19:23 Trusting the body as an ally, developing a deep connection from childhood, intentional relating, and learning how to ally with our bodies.

* 31:28 Embracing the grief of elderhood, learning from nature, and overcoming the fear of feeling all emotions, bridges the gap between aging and becoming an elder.

* 39:38 Discovering the path to becoming the elders we long for requires a conscious effort to embody the qualities we wished our own elders possessed, empowering us to guide future generations with wisdom and compassion

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table please consider sending it to a friend, leaving a review on Apple, and or becoming a supporting subscriber.

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Anna is the author of the book "La Danza: Conflict, Passion, and Healing."

In this episode, we delve into Anna's journey as a dancer and her quest to preserve and showcase traditional Italian folk dances. From researching archives and interviewing experts to forming a dance company and performing for Pope John Paul II, Anna shares her experiences and the profound lessons she has learned along the way.

Know more about Anna here.

Keypoints we talked about that you don’t want to miss:

1:42 Where Anna’s journey of researching Italian folk dance started

9:26 Learning more about movement as a human being

11:27 How the geographical location and historical context of a region influence the movements and themes of the dances

26:55 The Power of folk dances, oneness and unity

43:52 How to find stillness in your dancing

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community & connection hour. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

Today, we have a truly remarkable guest to introduce you to. Joining us is the multi-talented Dr. John Satchmo Mannan, also known as Dr. Mujib Mannan.

Dr. Mannan is a retired Professor of the American Experience Law, Literature and History at the College of New Rochelle, University of the Virgin Islands and other university venues for nearly 30 years. He is an embodiment of the Renaissance spirit, with a passion for education, law, history, poetry, jazz music, storytelling, and much more.

In this episode, Dr. Mannan shares his unique perspective on life and how he manages to keep all his passions and interests together. He believes in the power of love, wisdom, and understanding, and how they shape his exploration of different subjects.

From music and poetry to the history of Islam in Harlem, Dr. Mannan's curiosity knows no bounds.

Join us as we explore the intersection of art, history, philosophy, and spirituality, uncovering hidden truths and inspiring you to imagine a brighter world.

Discover Satchmo’s books here.

Get weekly whispers from The Land of Nod here.

Key points of what we talked about:

2:20 Introduction of Dr. John Satchmo Mannan

7:07 The role of Poetry, stories and legends in Re-education

13:03 Harlem and The Land Of Nod

21:44 Rugged individualism and group consciousness

38:55 Finding peace in the world and God

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community & connection hour. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

Dina is joined once again by the esteemed Dr. Gina Miele, professor of Italian and former director of the Coccia Institute for the Italian Experience in America.

Dr. Miele specializes in nineteenth and twentieth-century Italian folktales, with a particular focus on the works of Luigi Capuana and Italo Calvino.

Her current projects include an annotated translation of Luigi Capuana's complete collection of fairy tales and a study on extending the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach to education beyond early childhood to middle school, secondary school, and university settings. Additionally, she is the creative mind behind the Italian Mystics, Saints & Visionaries Oracle Deck, a captivating creation for individuals with Italian heritage or a deep love for all things Italian.

In this fascinating episode, Dina and Dr. Miele embark on an exploration of fairy tales and witches. Analyzing the dual nature of female characters, that are often represented as destructive and devouring

Challenging the traditional portrayal of women & witches as negative forces in fairy tales, Dr. Miele emphasizes the importance of considering alternative perspectives. Providing thought-provoking insights and references where listeners are invited to appreciate the complexity and richness that lies beyond conventional portrayals of witches in folklore.

Join Dina Gregory and Dr. Gina Miele on this mesmerizing journey into the realm of fairy tales and witches!

Learn more about Dr. Miele and her work here.

Key points of what we talked about:

2:23 Folkloric wisdom and fairy tales

4:24 Looking at the story from the perspective of the witch

7:01 Isolation and loneliness in the story

9:51 How to find a new way to connect

12:14 Becoming a storyteller

14:13 The magic of fairy tales

16:23 Living beyond your own personal story

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review, and share with friends.

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly connection & expression hour. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

Today, we have a truly remarkable guest joining us, Daniel Cascardo.

Daniel is a Detroit-based visual artist. His work has been described as a vibrant playground for the senses. Through his art, Daniel transports us to a realm where cultures converge and imagination takes flight.

In this episode, we delve into Daniel's story and discover the transformative power of art in his life. We will learn how he envisions his creations as vessels of emotion and connection, inspiring viewers to contemplate the human experience and embrace the beauty of diversity.

So, grab a seat at La Befana's Table, and let's celebrate the transformative power of art with Daniel Cascardo.

Learn more about Daniel and his art here.

Key points of what we talked about:

2:12 The start of Daniel’s artistic career

5:03 Working with kids and adults with disabilities

12:48 The role of imagination in healing the world

18:39 The negative aspects of imagination

21:58 Being grateful for what you have

25:15 What is a contemplative art practice

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly connection & expression hour. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

Eduardo Montes Bradley is an award-winning filmmaker renowned for his extraordinary biographical portraits of artists, social activists, and scientists. Eduardo's ability to capture the essence of these remarkable individuals and their profound contributions has earned him well-deserved acclaim. Some of his recent works, such as "Daniel Chester French American Sculptor" and "Black Fiddler's," have captivated audiences with their compelling storytelling.

In this episode, we are privileged to delve into Eduardo Montes Bradley's most recent project, a remarkable documentary entitled "The Italian Factor." This thought-provoking film explores the lives and works of Italian American sculptors and their enduring impact on public art and the formation of the American identity. Through his discerning lens, Eduardo brings to light the remarkable stories and artistic achievements of these sculptors, shedding light on their profound influence.

Learn more about Eduardo here.

Watch more of his works here.

If you find value in listening to La Befana’s Table and want to support my work in the world, please leave an honest review on Apple, share with a friend, buy me a coffee or become a Supporting Subscriber

From the many messages I received this week, it seems like you guys are enjoying some of these more intimate conversations between you and me. So I thought I'd have another one with you today. 

In today’s episode, we will explore the transformative power of creativity and the importance of bringing your gifts to the table. 

We delve into the profound connection between grief and creativity and how they can be catalysts for personal and collective healing.

I’ll also briefly read the Instagram post that inspired this episode. 

Key points of what we talked about:

1:08 A message from @inspiredtowrite, Amy McNee

3:22 Why Gifts and creativity are best friends

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table please leave an honest review Apple or Spotify, share with a friend, or consider becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

In today’s episode, I invite you to bring your grief to the table.

Why? Cause it’s a normal part of being human.

We all experience it when we suffer a loss. It can be experienced after the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, or any other major life transition. 

In this podcast episode, we’ll briefly discuss the different types of grief and the importance of making space for collective grief.

Grab Dina’s book, “Love at the Threshold” here:

Key points of what we talked about:

1:26 The different types of grief

3:13 The opportunity that grief brings to us

4:52 How can we bring our grief to the table

7:07 Collective grief needs a collective body to transform it

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table please leave an honest review Apple or Spotify, share with a friend, or consider becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

In honor of Jazz Appreciation Month and Jazz Appreciation Day which is coming up on April 30, I'm sharing a conversation with you with our Jazzy Italian, Vanessa Racci.

Vanessa Racci is a singer, producer and voice teacher with over 25 years of professional performance experience.  She offers a range of shows that span jazz, theatre and Italian American music genres with unique show production, edutainment and a distinct retro image.

In this episode, Vanessa discusses how her Italian roots influence her music music that celebrates Italian American’s contributions to jazz.

She also blesses us with two songs from her current album “Jazzy Italian”!

Learn more about Vanessa and her music here.

Key points of what we talked about:

* 1:50 A clip of her song “At the Jazz Band Ball”

* 2:50 Vanessa’s journey to Italian music

* 5:36 The birth of her first album “Italian Fresca” or Fresh Italian

* 12:08 Bringing out the Italian American aspect of jazz

* 17:00 The balance in terms of preserving and sharing

* 22:53 Vanessa’s incredible rendition of the classic song “Volare”

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table please leave an honest review Apple or Spotify, share with a friend, or consider becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

I hope you find this episode Soul nourishing.

Key points of the discussion:

1:52 The miracle of human existence and the beauty of becoming human

3:32 What I think is our purpose in life

5:00 The beauty of committing fully to life

Reminder: Gabriel Meyer from our last episode has a Sacred Playshop coming up on 4/22

Join Us for a Sacred Playshop

If you are in New York City area, you have the opportunity to partake in Gabriel Meyer’s sacred play shop where we learn how to bridge holiness and playfulness through an experience rooted in Kabbalah, and Sufism! 

Make sure you register for Gabriel's sacred playshop which is being offered on April 22, Upper West Side of New York City.

Register here

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please leave an honest review Apple, share with a friend, or consider becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

Welcome back to another episode of La Befana’s Table. Today Musician, Storyteller, Peacemaker, and Radical Creative, Gabriel Meyer joins me at La Befana’s Table for a conversation on bridging our longing for (w)holiness with playfulness.

Born in Cordoba, Argentina. Son of human rights champion Rabbi Marshall Meyer. Gabriel opens hearts and builds cross-cultural bridges through music, humor, and story celebrating Spirit. He travels the Globe performing his music, facilitates interfaith and multicultural playshops and ceremonies.

He has led rituals, concerts, and workshops with great success for thousands of people around the world (Israel, Europe, North, Central & South America, India, Australia & South Africa) in the past 20 years.

In today’s episode, Gabriel blesses us with two different songs which serve as a jumping point for a conversation that touches on liminal space, sharing our true voice through song, how to simply be present to to the miracle that is life.

Join Us for a Sacred Playshop

If you like what you hear and want to learn how to bridge holiness and playfulness through an experience rooted in Kabbalah, and Sufiism, make sure you register for Gabriel's sacred playshop which is being offered on April 22, Upper West Side of New York City.

Register here

Lear more about Gabriel here and his works. https://www.gabrielmeyerhalevy.com/en/home

Keypoints of what we discuss:

* 00:00 Liminal Grace song

* 06:19 Start of conversation

* 07:00 What liminality is for Gabriel

* 24:15 About the Sacred Playshop: A bridge between Playfulness and Sacredness

* 30:19 The importance of telling your story

* 37:25 We need to learn how to walk as gracefully as we talk

* 43:05 There’s a time for planning and there is a time to let go

* 01:07:00 Too much unconditional love and too much compassion don’t make you a hero

* 01:11:28 Human song

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please leave an honest review Apple or Spotify, share with a friend, or consider becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

Today, we have here our special guest, Author, Raylene Abbott.

Raylene describes herself as a listener of the wind. A singer of green psalms written on the forest floor. A student of heart softening. Finder of Wayside Shrines, Collector of Medieval Recipes. And somehow with the Grace of God, she became an Author of Books. 

And in this episode, Dina talks with Author Raylene Abbott about her latest book, “Novenas For Now”.

This multi-layered book is filled with mystical stories, ancestral wisdom, traditional recipes and direct experiences with working with Novena practices.  

Find out more about Raylene’s written books here. 

Questions for Reflection:

Have you ever prayed a Novena? If you have what is the impact on your life? What are some practices that help you stay rooted? How do we become true gift-givers in this world?

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and & other perks such as access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please leave an honest review & share with a friend.

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Today Matt Mitler joins me in a conversation about searching for the sacred through the medium of theater.

Matt is an American actor who is also the founding director of Dzieci Theatre (the polish word for "children"). 

Integrating techniques garnered from such theatre masters as Jerzy Grotowski, Eugenio Barba and Peter Brook, ritual forms derived from Native American and Eastern spiritual disciplines, and an ethic based securely in Humanistic Psychology, Dzieci aims to create a theatre that is as equally engaged with personal transformation as it is with public presentations.

In this episode, Matt and I talk about their work, the Dzieci theatre and their upcoming Passion production in celebration of the Holy Week. 

More of what we talked about: 

* 2:30 Inviting an audience member into the piece

* 8:22 Meeting the audience

* 14:10 The power of the audience

* 24:52 Dealing with difficult participants

* 35:59 Finding projects you can be married to for life

* 45:25 Working with different spiritual communities

A Passion performance schedule 2023:

* Palm Sunday, April 2nd at 10:30 AM (as part of the morning service)

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH74 Park Avenue, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028

* Holy Tuesday, April 4th at 7:00 PMTHE CENTER AT WEST PARK165 West 86th Street, NY, NY 10024

* Maundy Thursday/Passover, April 6th at 7:00 PMTHE EPISCOPAL ACTOR’S GUILD1 East 29th Street, NY, NY 10016

* Good Friday, April 7th at 7:00 PMBOUGHTON PLACE150 Kisor Road, Highland, NY 12528

Whether Christian or Jew or Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or Zen,A Passion appeals to the human spirit in everyone and our essential longing for communion.

Please join us.

$20 donationDoors open 15 minutes prior to the performance!

Notes On A PassionA Commentary by Matt Mitler

More of their schedules!

Next Fall

MAKBET

Out West!

Stay tuned for the touring schedule

(We’re seeking contacts for LA & SF venues!)

+

December 2023!

The Twenty-fifth Anniversaryof Dzieci’s Signature Creation

FOOLS MASS

+

TDF shines a light on Dzieci, with this wonderful little video:

Meet the Theatre

If you have been touched in any way, shape or form by our work,please consider making a donation.Together, in communion, we will continueto bring meaning into art, and art into meaning.

Connect with Dzieci theatre: 

Dzieci workshops and performances are available for groups of all kinds, both secular and sacred.

* Dzieci’s Workshops: Dzieci Workshops

* Dzieci’s ministerial offerings: http://dziecitheatre.org/ministry-to-ministers/

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dziecitheatre/

* Website: http://dziecitheatre.org/

**************************

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please leave an honest review, this helps people find my podcast. 

Rate us on the Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-befanas-table-with-dina-friends/id1661361657

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Today’s episode is an honest heart to heart.

I talk about showing up as we are and reflecting on the ways in which our goals accurately represent our implicit interests and values in life.

More of what we talked about:

* 1:07 Showing up as I am

* 2:30 Commitment to what you love the most

* 4:08 The beauty of Launching a Podcast

* 5:24 Nobility

* 6:04 Women of Welcome Quote

* 7:19 Wisdom within

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please consider leaving a review, sharing this email with a friend, or becoming a Supporting Subscriber.

Today, I have my very good friend here, Jen Violi. 

Jen Violi is a writer, mentor, and facilitator of Elemental Writing courses. Elemental Writing means remembering writing as a wholly embodied act of a wholly embodied being, and that we humans belong to and are in a relationship with the animate world. 

Jen’s spiral of identities includes but is not limited to: Original Detective of Joy, story sanctuary keeper, word witch, and mystic. Also: Scorpio sun, Aries rising, and Leo moon, a.k.a. two fires and a big dark water. 

Jen is the author of the novel Putting Makeup on Dead People, a finalist for the Oregon Book Award, as well as numerous published essays, short stories, prose-poems, and other form-defying feats of word magic.   

In today’s episode, we dive deep into meeting the people of your soul tribe. We also talk about elemental writing, what is it, and how Jenn come up with it. 

More of what we talked about: 

* 2:13 What is elemental writing

* 5:45 Jen’s own adventure of Elemental writing

* 10:17 Jen’s invitation to someone who says “I’m not a writer”

* 15:09 Jen’s inspiration for her book Putting makeup on dead people

* 17:57 What is initiation? What does it mean?

* 29:18 The fire course

* 32:16 Living in epiphany 

Join Jen’s Elemental Writing: Fire!  Tuesdays March 21- April 25, 11-1:30 PDT. Register by March 18.

Elemental Writing is a series of courses that will enliven your writing—both the words and the act—through embracing writing as the wholly embodied act of a wholly embodied being (you!). We engage in simple rituals, remember our belonging to the natural world, seek the wisdom of elements, and write in community, fueled by an ever-deepening sense of connection to everything. 

In this iteration, we ask fire to be our guide for a six-week simmer, sauna, and thaw of the writer body. 

Join us to explore friction in fiction (& non), writing as devotion, soothing the swollen manuscript and burnt-out writer, the anatomy of a creative chimney, tending the writer's heart, and more. Guest teachers include: sacred flames, volcanos, wildfires, bodily inflammation, hot springs, and hearths. 

Each week, you’ll receive a pdf with prompts, practices, and tools you can use for all phases of writing. You’ll also have the opportunity to receive generative editorial feedback on one 2,500 word piece of writing and a chance to share it at an end-of-year public reading and celebration in November 2023. Ready for a wild, wonderful, and warming adventure?

Learn more at https://www.jenvioli.com/ready-to-write/elemental-writing/

Connect with Jen:

Website- www.jenvioli.com

Instagram- jenvioli

Join her initiation at www.patreon.com/jenvioli

Other links and resources mentioned:

* The Spell of the Sensuous By David Abram

* Wheel of Initiation: Practices for Releasing Your Inner Light By Julie Tallard Johnson

******

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack https://dinagregory.substack.com/about

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps people find my podcast. 

Rate us on Apple podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-befanas-table-with-dina-friends/id166136165

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Welcome back to La Befana’s Table. 

Today, I am so excited to share with you my conversation with my dear friend, Michela Musolino.

Michela Musolino, American-born and raised, known for her fiery and passionate interpretations of both traditional and contemporary Sicilian Folk and Roots Music,  enchants with a voice that seems to float between the ages.

She grew up in a household where the Sicilian dialect was spoken so the children wouldn't be able to understand the adults' conversations. The sounds of that language were like music to Michela and she fell in love with them. 

Listening made her curious, hungry to understand, and determined to join in the conversations.  On trips back to Sicily, she'd become enamored of the traditional folk songs and began to collect them, scouring tape bins with her dad trying to find recordings she didn't already have.

In this episode, we are celebrating International Women's Day with Michela who you may remember from our pre-launch episode. And our conversation today focuses on the ways in which we celebrate and care for the women in our midst, and the care that sustains us, individually and collectively. So let's jump right in.

More of what we talked about: 

* 1:19  What are we really celebrating? How are we celebrating the women in our lives.

* 7:44 What it means to be a woman

* 13:05 We all have a role to play and your presence is important

* 19:52 Taking care of a brand new and fully formed human

* 25:53 Songs and stories of a woman. A song about the sea “The Wives and Fishermen”. 

Connect with Michela:

Website: https://www.michelamusolino.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MichelaMusolino

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelamusolino/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michela.musolino.58

Listen to her music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/275QPH57IifD4vl0J76u4A?go=1&sp_cid=b102b9bdf24d8caacd62ad564c1b3eac&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps people find a seat at La Befana’s Table.

Rate us on Apple podcast.

Rate us on Spotify:

Genevieve Anderson is a multi-hyphenated powerhouse of a woman, filmmaker and artist and social entrepreneur. She's the founder of Wunz Apparel in Action, which is a social enterprise committed to impacting the lives of women and men who have experienced homelessness and are coming through recovery.

In this episode, Genevieve talks about her own experience of loss and her journey creating a super suit-which a high fashion jumpsuit, designed with a tiny red cape as a wink to the superpower in each of us and a nudge to put that power into compassionate action.

More of what we talked about: 

* 1:54 Get to know more about Genevieve

* 3:11 How did Genevieve come up with a super suit

* 17:42 Genevieve’s existential moment

* 19:23 Dustwun film & finding compassion at the border

* 26:13 Core humanity

Connect with Genevieve:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevieveheatheranderson/

Website: https://www.shopwunz.com/

Other links and resources mentioned:

* https://www.dustwunmovie.com/

* https://impresariobynew.org/campaign/wunz-apparel-in-action-pilot-workforce-development-program-with-the-los-angeles-mission/

******

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack http://dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps people find my podcast. 

Rate us on Apple podcast.

Rate us on Spotify:

Today, I have a really special guest to introduce to you. Her name is Tam Orlando and she is the creator of reclaim your space, a shame-free, judgment-free community, supporting clutter clearing to open up to flow in your home and in your life. 

Tam is an interior designer with a BFA from Parsons' new School of Design and a certified Cosmic smash booking instructor. She’s also the author of a forthcoming memoir, documenting her own reclaiming journey. 

In this episode, Tam and I are going to talk about clutter clearing in a deeper way where she associates it with profound healing and being your authentic self without the need to feel guilty or be ashamed so you can reclaim your space in home & life.

More of what we discussed:

1:25 Get to know Tam

6:52 Clutter clearing as an unexpected way of encountering a kind of profound healing

15:19 Letting go of things that is valuable to you

25:00 How can you reclaim your space as a renter

30:57 Know more about Cosmic Smash Booking

42:15 Releasing shame

Know more about Tam:

Tam Orlando is a thoughtful, intelligent and compassionate speaker, who is able to flow organically in conversation as both interviewer and interviewee.

Her expertise and experience span a wide range of topics, everything from the technical nuances of designing a nourishing and functional home to the power of the feminine in creating a new paradigm of creation, collaboration, and loving community.

A gifted storyteller, Tam finds meaning and weaves connections that imbue the simplest, most mundane experiences with a transcendent sparkle, signs of magic and loving wisdom.

Her identity as a multi-passionate creative, thinker, healer, mother, and queer person informs everything she shares.

Connect with Tam:

Website: https://tam.world/about

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/reclaimyourspacebytam/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visions_of_tam/

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Check my book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Love-at-Threshold-Dina-Gregory/dp/1701122065

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps people find my podcast. 

Rate us on Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-befanas-table-with-dina-friends/id166136165

Rate us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70YvUA6lbFm0gnKdq1YtXZ

In this conversation today, I’m gonna be sharing with you my thoughts about Valentine’s Day and what this day elicits within me. 

I’m also reading an excerpt from my book, “Love at the Threshold”.

Synopsis: In Love at the Threshold, first-time author Dina Gregory has written a very moving account of her intimate journey of self-discovery-one that is both deeply personal and absolutely universal. Written in the wake of a sobering and heartrending divorce, Love at the Threshold is a lyrical memoir that gives readers a front-row seat to the crucifixion of a woman's heart as the delusions of romantic love crumble and her faith is put to the test.

Resources mentioned: 

Listen to Episode 7 here: https://dinagregory.substack.com/p/earth-centric-ways-of-thinking-four#detail

Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Love-at-Threshold-Dina-Gregory/dp/1701122065

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps people find my podcast. 

Rate us on Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-befanas-table-with-dina-friends/id166136165

Rate us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70YvUA6lbFm0gnKdq1YtXZ

Today, we will be joined by our dear friend, Jess Grippo, who’s a dancer, a creative coach, and the founder of Dance Again.

As you all know, dancing is more than just moving the body. It’s a vehicle of expression. 

In fact, dance has been part of our traditions throughout history. Our ancestors used it to celebrate a new life, mourn, and heal. 

Dance helps us tell a story, express our feelings and emotions, connect with our community, and most importantly, connect with ourselves. 

In this episode, Jess and I are going to talk about her journey to dance again after leaving the competitive world of ballet, the courage it takes to dance with strangers, & discovering the healing drum & dance traditions of our cultural roots

More of what we discussed:

01:22- Get to know Jess

02:35- Dance as a form of expression

07:08- Dance again

10:02- Is the bigger version of you blocking you

11:47- Jess’ journey of going into the dances of her ancestry

14:30- There’s healing in dancing

16:30- The original purpose of dance 

Know more about Jess:

Jess Grippo is a dancer, performance artist, author, and creative coach. 

After leaving the classical ballet path and not dancing for years, she started making her own dance videos, alone in her room. While that habit continues, she’s also added quite a few others: starting up an inclusive, creative dance community online and in NYC (Dance Again), making comedic interpretive dances about her dating life and the menstrual cycle (Hungry  Ovaries), writing a book and video series (Dance With This Book), and supporting others in their creative, expressive unfolding through her coaching practice. 

Her work has been featured at TEDxNYU, Lincoln Center's Dance On Camera Festival, the New York Comedy Club, The Vagina Monologues opening act, and more. Her puppy Lucy is her only boss and she frequently daydreams of moving into the loft from Flashdance. 

Connect with Jess:

Website: https://www.jessgrippo.com/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessgrippo

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jessgrippo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessgrippo/

Other links and resources mentioned:

Dance with this book By Jess Grippo: https://www.jessgrippo.com/words

Alessandra Belloni: https://alessandrabelloni.com/

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox be sure to subscribe to

http://dinagregory.substack.com

This will allow you to expand on the conversation via a thoughtful comment section, weekly dialogue threads, and our very own private chat

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, this helps more people find a seat at La Befana’s Table.

Today, we have an incredible friend joining us here on La Befana’s table, Sharon Leggio Falchuk, a functional medicine health coach and founder of Intended Holistic Wellness.

Have you or someone you know ever got sick yet doctors couldn’t pinpoint their illnesses?

The thing is health doesn't only mean physical, it is also mental, emotional, spiritual, and environmental and many times it requires you to dig deeper to identify the root cause of your illness. 

In this episode, Sharon and I will talk about the connection of knowing your ancestral roots to your healing journey. We are also going to talk about Functional Medicine, what it is, and how it works. 

More of what we talked about:

* 1:18 Sharon’s story and her own experience of chronic illness

* 7:20 Sharon’s journey of assembling her own care team of people who listen to her, believe in her, and who were willing to help her and be partners

* 11:56 How did the Italian root of Sharon help her in her healing journey

* 15:18 Community, love, and music as the best medicine

* 23:33 Ostracizing

* 27:45 The desire of everyone to be completely loved and accepted

* 30:42 What is Functional Medicine

* 42:43 Expose yourself a little bit to stress if you want to build resilience

* 53:20 What you could do today to start your holistic approach to your health

Know more about Sharon:

Sharon Leggio Falchuk, FMCHC found herself bedridden by a serious illness in 2011, and when the mainstream medical system had no answers or help for her she took matters into her own hands. She spent every moment she could doing research, changing her diet & lifestyle, and assembling an alternative and traditional medicine care team to help her forge a path to healing. Her inextinguishable will to be well meant she was willing to try almost anything, and one of the life-changing discoveries she made was the true power of Mind-Body Medicine.Once she reclaimed her health she became a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and founded InTended Holistic Wellness, where she specializes in helping people with “mystery illnesses” and chronic conditions, as well as those who are highly sensitive. Sharon’s “less is more” approach stemmed from navigating her own wellness journey with many sensitivities, and she feels the most important factor in health & healing is reconnecting with yourself and your unique needs and strengths. She has taken various professional Mind-Body Medicine training courses to help people do exactly that.Sharon has always felt a deep connection to her Italian heritage and cultural traditions. Her passion project is researching traditional Italian healing practices, using them at home, and sharing them with others on social media. She also profiles Italians and Italian-Americans in the wellness space on those accounts, because she feels that those with Italian roots are amazing healers and have a lot of wellness wisdom to share with the world.

Connect with Sharon:

Website: https://www.intendedholisticwellness.com/

Social Media:Instagram -@intendedwell / https://www.instagram.com/intendedwell/@italianamwell / https://www.instagram.com/italianamwell/Facebook -InTended Holistic Wellness /https://www.facebook.com/intendedholisticwellnessItalian-Americans in Wellness /https://www.facebook.com/italianamwell

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to participate in our community via a thoughtful comment section, weekly discussion threads, and our private chat. Be sure to subscribe to my substack

dinagregory.substack.com

If you found Soul nourishment and love listening to La Befana’s Table, please leave an honest review, this helps more people find my podcast.

Today, I wanted to share with you a story of a friend who recently & unexpectedly passed.

So, I wanted to use this episode as a tribute to Ms. Geraldine by sharing a story of our brief but impactful friendship.

While I am sad that she is gone, I’m happy I get to introduce her to all of you.

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as opportunities to extend the conversations via a comment section, dialogue threads, and private chat. Be sure to subscribe to my substack http://dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table,, please leave an honest review, this helps more people find a seat at the table.

Rate us on Apple podcast or Spotify.

Have you ever felt like there’s something more to life? That there’s something more you can do, that you can offer to this world but kind of feeling lost as to how to do it? 

Do you ever feel free to express all of yourself? To bring your whole self to the table? Or do you box yourself into different categories depending on what you think the world wants to see? 

What if it’s all connected to our ancestors?

Welcome folks to another episode of La Befana’s Table. 

I am very excited to share this episode with you as I have my good friend here, Jenn Campus. 

Jenn is my go-to person for La Befana’s Table whenever we (I and Befana) need the wisdom to maneuver our way through the absurdities of modern times. 

And today, we are going to talk about the four ancestral ways to help us navigate our longing to belong, to go back to our ancestral wisdom and use this to move forward into a future that is more humane, more wholesome, more grounded, and more rooted.

Key points that we talk about: 

* The importance of allowing ourselves to be vulnerable to belong

* How we and our ancestors have been entwined with each other for millennia

* How we, humans, have divided ourselves from all of the other things that make up this planet

* Earth-centric ways of thinking- Four Keys to go back to your ancestral wisdom

* The influence of having a mindset that everything has a spirit (plants, trees, animals, fungi, etc.)

Know more about Jenn Campus:

Jenn is a two-time best-selling author and has a degree in Anthropology and Indigenous/Native American Studies from Hampshire College in Amherst, MA.

As a Mythologist and Scribe of The Old Ones, she translates the unspoken words of the unseen world into stories that captivate our imagination and stir us to come into the right relationship with the world and all its inhabitants.

And as an Anthropologist, she distils those esoteric experiences down to their essence to create various practical frameworks to inspire you to create your own simple daily rituals and traditions that you can apply today to become re-enchanted with the world around you. These traditions can then be left as a legacy to the ones who come after us.

Connect with Jenn here:

Website: jenncampusauthor.com

Social Media: @jenncampusauthor

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Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and want access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to my podcast, please leave an honest review, and share with a friend this helps people find their seat at La Befana’s Table.

Join them for a spirited discussion that spans ancestral roots, the stories that make & shape us, what it means to bring the wisdom of the past to the table of the present, & how you find your people.

La Befana's Table is a people powered podcast. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or supporting subscriber.

Connect with Gina @profgmm

https://stgdesignz.com/ols/products/italian-mystics-saints-and-visionaries-oracle-cards

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to Dina’s substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review on your favorite podcast platform, and share with friends.

******

Thanks so much for filling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review, and share with friends.

It is the best way to bring more folks into the conversation, forge more connections, learn, grow, & LIVE a legendary story, together

Rate us on Apple podcast:

Rate us on Spotify:

******

Thanks so much for filling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review, and share with friends.

It is the best way to bring more folks into the conversation, forge more connections, learn, grow, & LIVE a legendary story, together

Rate us on Apple podcast:

Rate us on Spotify:

******

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and access to our monthly community and connection hours. Be sure to subscribe to my substack dinagregory.substack.com

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review, and share with friends.

It is the best way to bring more folks into the conversation, forge more connections, learn, grow, & LIVE a legendary story, together

Rate us on Apple podcast:

Rate us on Spotify:

In this episode, Dina recounts the legendary tale of old La Befana, a figure from ancient Italian folklore that has for centuries been delivering children gifts (and sometimes coal) every Epiphany Eve. 

The following sources have been utilized in the recounting of this tale: 

https://www.lacucinaitaliana.com/trends/news/la-befana-celebrating-the-feast-of-the-epiphany-in-italyhttps://jenncampusauthor.com/product/seasonal-guide-for-january-the-heart-of-winter/

Thanks so much for pulling up a seat at La Befana’s Table! 

If you want episodes sent directly to your inbox and access to our inaugural Befana Extravaganza and monthly community and connection hours, be sure to subscribe to my substack

If you found value and love listening to La Befana’s Table with Dina & Friends, please leave an honest review, and share with friends.

Share La Befana's Table with Dina & Friends

It is the best way to bring more folks into the conversation, forge more connections, learn, grow, & LIVE a legendary story, together

Host of La Befana's Table

https://dinagregory.substack.com/about

To get episodes sent directly to your inbox as well as other perks such as access to La Befana’s Table community & connection hours be sure to subscribe to Dina’s substack, https://dinagregory.substack.com/about