The Umbra Podcast

Ep. 45 - A Partnership in Action: Caritas & Umbra - Volunteering at the Don Gualtiero Soup Kitchen (Episode 1)

In this episode of the Umbra Institute Podcast, we’re joined by Alfonso Dragone, Director of the Saint Lawrence Charity Foundation in Perugia, along with two of our student volunteers, Lydia and Belle. Together, they offer a closer look at what volunteering with Caritas truly means, exploring its impact on the local community and the unique role international students play in supporting those in need. This first episode in our Caritas–Umbra collaboration series introduces the partnership and highlights the meaningful experiences of volunteering at the “Don Gualtiero” soup kitchen. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we’ll dive into solidarity emporiums and the student-led workshops that further enrich this collaboration.

Ep. 44 - The City as a Classroom: A Conversation with Umbra Director Zach Nowak

In this episode, we discuss together with our Umbra Reps of the Spring Semester 2026 the value of Perugia as a location to the experience of students abroad. Dr. Nowak expresses his enthusiasm for an immersive Italian experience, both historically and culinarily, while also providing insight as to why Perugia makes a good home, if only for a few months.

Ep. 43 - International Foods in Perugia: A Student Exploration

In Professor Jacopo Cossater’s class, students created this podcast episode to explore the international cuisines of Perugia. Beyond Italian food, what other culinary traditions can be found in the city? In this episode, students take us on a journey through Perugia’s international restaurants, sharing their stories and reflecting on what it means to bring flavors from around the world to a historic Italian city. Let’s dive right in!

Ep. 42 - Tables of Italy: Agriturismo

In Professor Jacopo Cossater’s class, students created this podcast episode exploring the concept of agriturismo. Why do agriturismos matter for farmers, local communities, and travelers? What sustainability values and traditions lie behind these farm-based restaurants? And why are they becoming so popular? Let’s dive right in!

Ep. 41 - Exploring Italian Dialects

In this episode, we explore the rich world of Italian dialects and how language changes from region to region. Focusing on the Umbrian dialect spoken in Perugia, we discuss how everyday speech differs from the standardized Italian taught in classrooms. We also talk with two students from the University of Perugia—one from Jesi (Emilia Romagna region) and one from Perugia —who share their regional expressions, and insights into how dialect shapes connections, identity, and community. This episode was created by Umbra Reps Fall 2025 students Katherine Wells (University of Richmond) and Meredith Stemm (Grand Valley State University).