Ep. 41 - Exploring Italian Dialects

Ep. 46 - We Ate That! Exploring Meats in Perugia and Beyond

Created by students of The Umbra Institute as an assignment for the Spring 2026 course Communicating Taste, this episode explores the role of meat in Italian food culture. From savory local specialties to beloved regional classics, our student hosts uncover the flavors, traditions, and stories behind some of the most popular meats enjoyed in Perugia and across Italy. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of consuming meat from a variety of animals. Listeners who are sensitive to topics involving animal consumption, food ethics, or dietary choices may wish to use discretion while listening.

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!