The Umbra Podcast

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...

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 n...

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. 

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 histor...

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!

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...

In this episode, host Amanda Fontana , Study Abroad Advisor at the Umbra Institute, sits down with Umbra students Julia Neumann (Bates College) and Emely Chuco (University of Connecticut) to discuss the predeparture process for studying abroad in Perugia. From completing orientation and obtaining a visa to managing expectations and preparing mentally for life in a new country, the conversation div...

Traveling every weekend across Europe may sound exciting, but it’s not always realistic—or sustainable. While living in Perugia, you have a unique opportunity that tourists don’t: to slow down, immerse yourself in daily Italian life, and discover the beauty of local experiences. Still, figuring out how to balance time, money, and the urge to explore can feel daunting. That’s why Paulina Allen, our...

In this episode, we explore the city of Perugia through the perspective of both a local Italian student and several Umbra Institute students. Our guest, Tommaso, a student at the University of Perugia (UniPG), shares his favorite places around the city—including study spots, parks, dinner destinations, and more. After spending three months in Perugia, our Umbra student representatives also offer t...

with Molly Haggerty and Catalina Lora, Umbra Reps Spring 2025 In this episode, Molly and Catalina—two of our Spring 2025 Umbra Reps—dive into a fun and candid conversation about the ups and downs of learning Italian while living abroad. From unexpected first encounters with the language outside the classroom to the ways their previous language knowledge helped—or sometimes didn’t—they reflect on w...

What does it feel like to land in a new city where you don’t yet speak the language? In this episode, we follow the story of Ali, a student who arrived in Perugia to study at Umbra without knowing a word of Italian. Through her experience, we explore the challenges—and the small victories—of adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and finding connection in unfamiliar places. You'll als...

This episode is brought to you by students ofthe Communicating Taste – Social Media and Journalism of Food & Wine class led by our professor Jacopo Cossater, wine expert and journalist. This episode, created by Victoria, Annie, and Chelsea, is oneof the outputs of their class. It explores their personal experiences with Italian cuisineand culinary habits, especially their adventures in dining...

In this episode, we’re debunking common misconceptions, tackling the biggest challenges of the application process, and sharing practical tips to help you get in and thrive once you’re there. This conversation is a reflection on Dr. John Lawrence Dennis, Dr. Zachary Nowak, and Dr. Filippo Sposini's "How to Get Into Grad School" workshop, where we gained valuable insights on what really matters whe...

Explore how tangible objects enhance storytelling and personal narratives. Reflect on insights from the workshop "Using Tangibles to Encourage Human Narratives.”

In this episode, our students explore the challenges and personal growth that arise from stepping beyond the comfort of speaking their native language. Join Morgan, Reagan, and Mira, members of our Fall 2024 Umbra Representatives Team, as they candidly share their experiences—embracing the initial discomfort and discovering the remarkable opportunities that come with this journey. Don’t miss their...

Explore the concept of digital detox and its importance for adolescents' well-being. Drawing from insights from the workshop held by Dr. Giorgio Ghizzoni, guest lecturer at the Umbra Institute, discusses the effects of intense social media use on mental health and shares practical strategies for reducing screen time.

This episode delves into the transformation of Italian psychiatry after the 1978 reform, which marked a shift from institutional care to community-based services. Drawing on insights from Professor Sposini’s workshop, part of MPP program Faculty, we discuss the impact on patient outcomes, family burdens, and the ongoing challenges in mental health care, particularly for schizophrenia and mood diso...

Explore the Photovoice project as a method for documenting and reflecting on multicultural experiences with our professor of Art Therapy Phillipa Stannard, certified art therapist and professor of Art Therapy at the Umbra Institute.  We will discuss the themes captured in students' Photovoice journals and the psychological insights gained.  The Multicultural Psychology Program Podcast Series is a...

Join host Kendall Mann, a rising senior at DePauw University, United States, and TRAP 2024 student as she talks with two guests about the Trasimeno Archaeological Project and what it entails.  Dr. Rebecca Schindler of DePauw University serves as the site director of the project. She, along with local archaeologist Giancarlo Santarelli, discuss this year’s project and excavation process. They break...

Since 2012, the Umbra Institute has hosted the Food Conference biennially. This academic gathering serves as a platform for scholars in the field of Food Studies to connect, share insights, and discuss the latest research. In this episode, we will explore the 2024 Conference highlights with Professor Elisa Ascione (John Felice Rome Center, Loyola University Chicago), Professor Christopher Fink (Oh...

Join host Jacopo as he dives into the fascinating world of food myths and fun facts with two distinguished guests: Don Spratt, Professor of Biochemistry and Director of STEM Summer Undergraduate Research Opportunities at Clark University, and Visiting Professor at the Umbra Institute, where he teaches Italian Kitchen Chemistry; and Zachary Nowak, PhD in American Studies from Harvard University and...

"How to make groceries in Perugia" is a special episode brought to you by the Communicating Taste students of the Spring Semester 2024. This episode serves as the course's final project and was entirely designed and created by the students. They will guide you through the essentials of grocery shopping in Italy, with a special focus on Perugia. Where should you shop for your groceries? How should...

Join this conversation with Anna Yankee, Hamilton College, and Jason Shrem, Clark University, in which they tell us about their experience of two semesters here in Italy.  From September to April they had the chance to deep dive in Italian culture and language. What has been the evolution of their experience here? What’s been the role of the Italian language in their experience? And most of all, w...

What classes are there at Umbra? What do you do in your free time? What is Perugia like?  Join this conversation with our Umbra representatives for the Spring 2023 semester: Esther Fatungase (Arcadia University), Fabiana Atencio Flores (University of Connecticut) , Isabella Iacovetta (University of Colorado Boulder) and Ava Donovan (Roger Williams University).  If you want you to hear more about t...

Explore this topic with our Umbra Reps students from Fall 2023: Elsa Martin (Williams College), Alexandra Ahlbeck (Denison University), Janet Scharmer (Santa Clara University) and Vanessa Sordello (Santa Clara University). Solo traveling might feel intimidating but it can be a wonderful experience! Listen to our student’s experience and tips.