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The Umbra Podcast

The Umbra Institute

The official podcast of the Umbra Institute, made by staff, faculty, students and alumni. The Umbra Institute is the only year-round independent study abroad program provider based in Perugia, Italy, offering semester, year-long, and summer programs with a variety of academic courses. We provide a unique educational opportunity for students both in and outside the classroom as our faculty and staff strive to incorporate a genuine Italian experience into all elements of both the academic curriculum and student life.

How our podcasts are created from scratch > https://youtu.be/jAUiqolR9tY

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 22 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • #48
    August 17 · 9 min

    Ep. 48 - We Ate That! Hunting Flavor: The Story of Umbrian Truffles

    Created by students of The Umbra Institute as an assignment for the Spring 2026 course Communicating Taste, this episode delves into the world of Umbria’s most prized culinary treasure: the truffle. Discover its history, cultural significance, and the unique flavors that have made this ingredient a symbol of Umbrian cuisine.

  • #47
    July 12 · 11 min

    Ep. 47 - We Ate That! Slow Food, The Umbrian Way

    Created by students of The Umbra Institute as an assignment for the Spring 2026 course Communicating Taste, this episode examines the Slow Food movement in Umbria. Through conversations about local producers, traditional recipes, and sustainable practices, students explore how food can preserve cultural heritage while fostering a deeper connection to place.

  • #46
    June 24 · 15 min

    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.

  • April 20 · 19 min

    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.

  • March 12 · 21 min

    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.

  • February 3 · 9 min

    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!

  • Dec 19, 2025 · 15 min

    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!

  • Nov 19, 2025 · 18 min

    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).

  • S4 · E40
    Oct 29, 2025 · 19 min

    Ep. 40 - Ready for Perugia: Preparing for Your Study Abroad Journey

    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 dives into both the practical steps and the emotional journey of leaving home to study abroad for the first time. Tune in for honest reflections, helpful tips, and inspiring insights from students who were once right where you are — getting ready to embark on their Umbra adventure.

  • Aug 28, 2025 · 23 min

    Ep. 39 - Beyond the Big Trips: Affordable Adventures from Perugia

    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 SP25 work-study student, sat down with two fellow Umbra students and an Umbra staff member to share their best tips for traveling locally and making the most of your study abroad adventure—without breaking the bank. At the Umbra Institute, we support your journey with plenty of resources: from newsletters and workshops to day trips and activities that inspire mindful travel and deeper connections.

  • Jun 18, 2025 · 32 min

    Ep. 38 - Perugia from the Eyes of a Local

    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 their own insights and recommendations. Whether you're looking for hidden gems or everyday favorites, this episode highlights what makes Perugia special from both local and international viewpoints. The episode was created by our Umbra Reps from Spring 2025 semester!

  • May 23, 2025 · 12 min

    Ep. 37 - Learning Italian: Personal Insights from Our Umbra Reps

    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 what it really feels like to immerse yourself in a new linguistic and cultural world. Tune in for honest stories, helpful tips, and a few laughs along the way.

  • May 6, 2025 · 27 min

    Ep. 36 - Navigating the language

    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 also hear how Umbra supports students through this transition, helping them not just to navigate the language, but to feel at home. Tune in for an honest, inspiring look at the early days of immersion—and what it means to truly dive in.

  • Mar 25, 2025 · 11 min

    Ep. 35 - Dining at a restaurant in Italy - observations and reflections

    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 at restaurants and how it compares to their food experiences back home in the United States. If you are curious about food culture in Italy in thecontext of restaurants, come with us and enjoy the journey. Let’s dig in!

  • Feb 13, 2025 · 25 min

    Ep. 34 - Navigating Graduate School

    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 when applying. Hit play and get the real talk on grad school! 🎧

  • Dec 20, 2024 · 36 min

    Ep. 32 - Breaking the American Bubble

    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 inspiring and insightful conversation!

  • Dec 4, 2024 · 36 min

    Ep. 30 - Multicultural Psychology Program series // The Evolution of Italian Psychiatry

    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 disorders.

  • Nov 1, 2024 · 28 min

    Ep. 29 - Multicultural Psychology Program series // Photovoice: Capturing Multicultural Experiences

    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 new initiative of the Multicultural Psychology Program (MPP) which aims to enhance students' learning with hands-on experience by promoting the integration of knowledge of multicultural psychology with real-world contexts. Each episode will be hosted by Umbra intern Lindsey Cottle and facilitated by MPP student groups, who will present and discuss various MPP-related issues and interview expert guests throughout the series. The podcast project encourages the practical application of academic studies, fostering a deeper understanding of multicultural psychology, diversity, and inclusion.

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