Episodes

Venice is a museum without walls — but behind her doors, each palace tells a different story. In this episode, Monica takes you through the city’s most fascinating museums — places where beauty, history, and imagination still breathe. In this episode: 🕯️ Ca’ Rezzonico — the Museum of Eighteenth-Century Venice, where frescoes, chandeliers, and candlelight revive the world of Tiepolo and Longhi. 🎭 Casa di Carlo Goldoni — the intimate home of Venice’s great playwright, filled with laughter, mari...

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Marco Cammozzo, founder of MC Leather, to explore the fascinating world of Venetian leather craftsmanship — where ancient techniques meet sustainable innovation. From the scent of tanned hides to the rhythm of skilled hands, Marco shares how his work blends tradition, creativity, and environmental awareness in a modern Venice that still beats with artisan spirit. ✨ Key points from the conversation: The story of MC Leather and its deep Vene...

Venice wears many masks — some glittering, some dark. In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with David Hewson, Philip Gwynne Jones, and Gregory Dowling, the brilliant minds behind the Venice Noir Festival. Together, they unravel how mystery, crime, and the haunting beauty of the lagoon intertwine to create a festival unlike any other. From the secret alleys that whisper of centuries past to the logistical labyrinth of organising a noir event in the world’s most theatrical city, thi...

🎙️ Episode Description In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica welcomes Giada Valenti, the Venetian-born singer whose career has brought the spirit of Venice and the language of love to audiences around the world. Known for her romantic voice and elegant stage presence, Giada shares the journey that took her from the quiet canals of her childhood to the bright lights of international stages. Together they talk about Venice as an endless source of inspiration, the universal power of music to con...

In this episode, Monica meets two extraordinary women who brought the rhythm of the East to the heart of the lagoon. Katerina, from Russia, and Regina, from Kazakhstan, met by chance in Venice — and chose to stay. Together, they created Venetians (By Choice and By Occasion), the very first Russian-language radio show on Radio Ca' Foscari. Their story is one of identity, migration, and transformation — a testament to how Venice can welcome, inspire, and redefine belonging in the most unexpecte...

In this special episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with journalist and CNN anchor Erica Hill, who recently hosted the powerful documentary Saving Venice as part of The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper. Together, they explore what it means to tell the story of a fragile, beloved city through an international lens. What happens when a global media giant turns its cameras on Venice? How does storytelling impact preservation? And what was it like, for Erica, to walk through the calli and can...

In this new episode of Venice Talks, Monica Cesarato steps aboard Il Nuovo Trionfo and speaks with Martino Rizzi, one of the founding members of the Compagnia della Marineria Tradizionale Il Nuovo Trionfo. Together, they recount the extraordinary story of Venice’s last great trabaccolo — a sturdy cargo boat of the Adriatic, lovingly restored to sail once more thanks to passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the sea and the lagoon. ⚓ Key points you will discover in this episode: The inspirin...

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica Cesarato sits down with Valeria Boncompagni, the creative force behind one of Venice’s most intimate and soulful jewelry ateliers. Nestled under the arcades of Piazza San Marco, Valeria's workshop is a sanctuary of emotion, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. A master of the ancient lost-wax casting technique, Valeria doesn't just design jewelry—she sculpts feelings, memories, and personal stories into bronze and silver. Her pieces are not made to follow ...

In this captivating episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with internationally renowned artist Judi Harvest to explore the luminous, layered world she has built between Murano’s glass furnaces and Venice’s buzzing garden beehives. Judi shares how a brief trip to Venice decades ago became a lifelong journey — one that has shaped her art, her activism, and her sense of belonging. From collaborating with Murano glassmasters to creating installations that highlight the fragility of both nature ...

In this evocative episode of Venice Talks, Monica speaks to Laura Pritchard, a British-born artisan who swapped the foggy landscapes of the UK for the light and tides of Venice. Today, Laura is one of the few women working as a maestra d’ascia, a traditional boatbuilder shaping the iconic vessels of the lagoon with age-old tools and timeless care. Together, they talk about what it means to embrace an ancient craft in a foreign land, how wood and water can become a language of belonging, and the...

In this episode of Venice Talks , we sit down with Cesare Peris , president of the historic Società di Mutuo Soccorso fra Carpentieri e Calafati , a unique Venetian institution rooted in solidarity, shipbuilding, and memory. 🔑 In this episode, we explore: The fascinating origins and mission of one of Venice’s oldest mutual aid societies Who the carpentieri e calafati were, and their essential role in the life of the Arsenale How the SMSCC has evolved through the centuries, adapt...

Join us on Venice Talks as we dive deep into the story behind NoCDA (No Contributo D’Accesso a Venezia) , the grassroots movement formed by Venetians standing against the controversial tourist access fee. In this episode, Monica interviews Alessandro Tonin , the creator of the NoCDA website and the visionary mind rallying locals to protect Venice’s accessibility and spirit. Key topics covered in this episode: Origins and motivations behind NoCDA: why this group was created Alessandro Ton...

In this fascinating new episode of Venice Talks, we dive deep into the rich history and artistry of Murano glass with Michele Zampedri, a renowned historian and expert on the subject from Vivarini srl, a amous furnace in Murano. Michele shares insights into the centuries-old traditions, unique techniques, and the evolution of Murano glass, a symbol of Venetian craftsmanship. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, or just curious about the allure of Murano glass, this episode is a must-listen! ...

In this exciting new episode of Venice Talks, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Leontine Hamer, the creative mind behind the Venice Dress Up Experience. This incredible experience allows you to step into the world of Venetian history by dressing up in stunning, meticulously crafted costumes that transport you to a different time. I had the chance to take part in the experience myself, and let me tell you—I absolutely loved it! From the moment I donned the Venetian attire, I felt like I wa...

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Samantha Wilson, the founder of Smart Move Italy, to discuss the realities of moving and living in Italy. With years of experience helping expats transition smoothly, Samantha shares her expertise on navigating bureaucracy, finding a home, and embracing Italian culture. Whether you're dreaming of relocating or already making Italy your home, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. Key Notes: Samantha Wilson’s background and the ins...

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica explores Mano a Mano, an inspiring initiative that bridges tradition and innovation in Venetian craftsmanship. Joining us are Michela Canzi Babini, Director of The Place of Wonders Foundation, and Alain Bullo, Maitre de Maison & General Manager of Londra Palace Venezia, to discuss how this project supports artisans, preserves heritage, and enhances the cultural experience for visitors. Key topics: 🔹 The mission of The Place of Wonders Foundation and its i...

In this special episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Fabrizio d'Oria, Chief Operating Officer of Vela Spa, the organization behind the Venice Carnival. Discover what goes into planning one of the world’s most iconic festivals and what’s in store for the 2025 edition! 🔹 Who organizes the Venice Carnival, and how is it brought to life? 🔹 This year’s theme – the inspiration behind it and what to expect. 🔹 New events and must-see performances for 2025. 🔹 Why the Flight of the Angel won...

In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Stefania Giannici, founder of Paperoowl, to explore the world of eco-friendly paper products. We dive into how Stefania ensures her creations respect both the environment and Venice's rich printing legacy. From sustainability in paper production to the art of bespoke, customized designs, Stefania shares the unique processes behind her business and the inspiration she draws from Venice’s historical connection to paper and print. Tune in for a...

In this exciting episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Romena Brugnerotto, the brilliant mind behind RominVenice. Together, they explore some of the most talked-about topics in Venice today. Key Highlights: 🎭 Venice Carnival 2025: Discover what makes this year's Carnival unique, with insights into new events, traditions, and must-see spectacles. 💶 The New Venice Entry Tax: We discuss the much-debated entry fee for tourists, its purpose, and how it could shape the future of the city. ...

Join Monica for an insightful episode of Venice Talks as she sits down with Simone Venturini, Councillor for Social Cohesion, Residence Policies, Economic Development, Work, and Tourism. In this engaging discussion, they explore the delicate balance of preserving Venice’s rich cultural heritage while addressing modern challenges. Key Topics Covered: Social Cohesion: How Venice fosters a sense of community among locals and visitors alike. Residence Policies: Tackling housing affordability and e...