Patrick and Lawrence sit down with renowned singer and bandleader Lena Prima, daughter of the legendary Louis Prima, to talk music, heritage, and the lasting power of Italian American culture. From growing up in a family of entertainers to carving out her own path as a performer, Lena shares stories from the stage, insights on honoring tradition while embracing modern sound, and what it means to carry forward her father’s legacy. A soulful blend of history, music, and culture—you won’t want to miss this one.

Lawrence and Patrick sit down to relive the magic of the Second Annual Spring Serata, a lively cocktail party hosted by the St. Expedite Lodge of the Order Italian Sons and Daughters of America. From Aperol spritzes to laughter-filled conversations, we break down the night’s highlights, memorable moments, and the joy of bringing paesani together under one roof.

And of course, in true Italian-American fashion, we couldn’t help but notice: no event is complete without at least one guy named Tony… and about five more paesani all answering when someone shouts that same name across the room!

Tune in for stories, laughs, and a taste of the culture we celebrate every year at the Serata.

In this special episode, we sit down with retired Judge Anthony Russo of New Orleans — a proud Italian American and one of the co-founders of the Italian American St. Joseph Society. Judge Russo shares the story behind the beloved St. Joseph Parade, an annual tradition that brings the sights, sounds, and spirit of Sicily to the streets of New Orleans every St. Joseph’s Day. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the city’s most anticipated cultural celebrations, Judge Russo reflects on the community, heritage, and joy that keep this parade marching year after year.

Visit their website at: https://italianamericansociety.org

Ever wonder what treasures (and curiosities) you might uncover in a Southern Sicilian fridge down in South Louisiana? In this episode, we crack open the refrigerator and freezer to explore the culinary mashup of Old World tradition and Cajun-country flavor. From homemade red gravy stored in repurposed butter tubs to andouille sausage nestled next to frozen cannoli, we’ll uncover the staples, the surprises, and the downright quirky items that tell the story of family, heritage, and a love of good food. Bring your appetite—and maybe a sense of adventure.

We’re joined by Tony Mangia from At The Table With Tony for a special weekend in South Louisiana during the SIA Spring Serata. From Sicilian street food to classic Neapolitan songs, we dive into the cultural crossover between Southern and Northern Italian Americans. Tune in as we explore our shared roots, the regional flavors that define us, and the traditions that keep Italian-American culture alive—wherever we gather.

In this episode of Bada Bing Bayou, we lay down the law—Italian style. From never showing up empty-handed to knowing that Nonna’s word is gospel, we break down the unspoken rules that govern every Italian American home. Equal parts tradition, superstition, and love, these commandments shaped our childhoods and still guide us today. Light a candle, pour some espresso, and get ready to laugh, nod, and maybe call your mother.

In our first deep dive, we’re sharing our story—where we come from, what shaped us, and why we started this podcast in the first place.

From growing up Italian American in South Louisiana to navigating identity, family expectations, and tradition, this episode sets the table for everything Bada Bing Bayou is about. We talk about the foods we grew up on, the phrases we still hear in our heads, and the values that stuck with us—whether we wanted them to or not.

It’s personal. It’s funny. It’s heartfelt.
And it’s just the beginning.

🇮🇹⚜️ Pull up a chair, pass the bread, and get to know us.

From The Godfather to Goodfellas, Cabrini to My Cousin Vinny, this episode of Bada Bing Bayou is all about the films that defined—and sometimes distorted—Italian American identity. We break down the classics, the clichés, and the cultural impact of seeing our stories on the big screen. Which movies got it right? Which ones made us cringe? And which ones had us saying, “That’s just like my uncle Tony!” Grab some popcorn (or a meatball) and join us for a cinematic stroll through Italian America.