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Venice Talks

Storytelling Podcasts

Welcome to Venice Talks, the weekly podcast series uncovering the authentic soul of Venice, Italy. Hosted by the fabulous Monica Cesarato, who has unparalleled knowledge of Venice, and is renowned as one of the city's top guides even among celebrities. Venice Talks is not just a podcast; it's your passport to a 360-degree experience of this extraordinary city. Join Monica as she delves beyond the clichés, steering clear of the tourist-packed routes that millions follow each year. Instead, she takes you to the hidden gems and less postcard-perfect corners of Venice. Why is Venice one of the world's most visited cities? It is the unique allure of a city built entirely on water, boasting centuries of glorious history. In this intoxicating podcast, you will discover both aspects of Venice – the iconic landmarks like Saint Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, as well as the lesser-known, extraordinary places that showcase the true essence of this exceptional city. Venice Talks is your go-to resource whether you're planning a vacation or simply captivated by its mystery and history. Expect insider tips, weekly insights, and engaging conversations that bring the Venetian people, their lives, and their struggles to the forefront. Join Monica every week as she navigates the canals and traverses small alleyways, and connects you to the people who shape Venice's past, present, and future. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation that goes beyond the surface of this remarkable city.

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Location:

Italy

Description:

Welcome to Venice Talks, the weekly podcast series uncovering the authentic soul of Venice, Italy. Hosted by the fabulous Monica Cesarato, who has unparalleled knowledge of Venice, and is renowned as one of the city's top guides even among celebrities. Venice Talks is not just a podcast; it's your passport to a 360-degree experience of this extraordinary city. Join Monica as she delves beyond the clichés, steering clear of the tourist-packed routes that millions follow each year. Instead, she takes you to the hidden gems and less postcard-perfect corners of Venice. Why is Venice one of the world's most visited cities? It is the unique allure of a city built entirely on water, boasting centuries of glorious history. In this intoxicating podcast, you will discover both aspects of Venice – the iconic landmarks like Saint Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, as well as the lesser-known, extraordinary places that showcase the true essence of this exceptional city. Venice Talks is your go-to resource whether you're planning a vacation or simply captivated by its mystery and history. Expect insider tips, weekly insights, and engaging conversations that bring the Venetian people, their lives, and their struggles to the forefront. Join Monica every week as she navigates the canals and traverses small alleyways, and connects you to the people who shape Venice's past, present, and future. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation that goes beyond the surface of this remarkable city.

Language:

English

Episodes
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S3 Ep.17 - Singing Venice to the World with Giada Valenti

9/4/2025
🎙️ 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 connect people, and why romance continues to matter today more than ever. This is a heartfelt conversation about music, passion, and carrying Venice in your soul no matter where life takes you. ✨ Show Key Notes ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Giada Valenti, singer 📌 Listen & Subscribe Do not miss this intimate and inspiring episode with Giada Valenti. 👉 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, and remember to subscribe, rate, and share Venice Talks so you will always be part of the stories that keep Venice alive.

Duration:00:43:27

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S3 Ep.16 - Radio Across Borders: The First Russian Voice in Venice with Regina & Katerina

7/31/2025
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 unexpected ways. 🔑 Key Show Notes: ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Regina & Katerina from Venetians by Choice & by Occasion 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform! 🌟 Follow and subscribe to Venice Talks to never miss an episode filled with voices, stories, and secrets of La Serenissima. 📩 And do not forget to share it with fellow lovers of Venice — wherever they may be.

Duration:00:39:07

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S3 Ep.15 - The Whole Story, Saving Venice: A Conversation with Erica Hill from CNN

7/24/2025
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 canals with a microphone in hand and a mission to share Venice’s truth? Whether you love Venice, live in Venice, or dream of Venice — this conversation is a must-listen. 🔑 Key Show Notes: • What inspired Erica Hill and CNN to create Saving Venice • Behind-the-scenes moments from filming in the city • Erica Hill’s personal impressions of Venice • The challenge of balancing beauty with urgency in storytelling • Reflections on overtourism, climate change, and local voices • How media can be a force for cultural preservation • Monica’s own perspective as a Venetian insider ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Erica Hill from CNN ✨ Listen now, subscribe to never miss a story, and follow Monica on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes of Venice’s soul.

Duration:00:44:33

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S3 Ep.14 - Saving Il Nuovo Trionfo: A Boat, A City, A Dream - A chat with Martino Rizzi

7/10/2025
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: Il Nuovo TrionfoCompagnia della Marineria TradizionaleNuovo Trionfo Set sail with Monica and Martino on a journey through wood, wind, and water — a living tribute to Venice’s seafaring soul. ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Martino Rizzi from la Compagnia della marineria tradizionale Il Nuovo Trionfo 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform — and do not forget to subscribe, follow, and share this episode with fellow lovers of Venice’s history!

Duration:00:45:10

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S3 Ep.13 - From Piazza San Marco: Designing Dreams in Precious Metal. A chat with Valeria Boncompagni

7/3/2025
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 trends but to follow emotions. Each creation is a wearable sculpture, infused with history, heritage, and heart. 🔑 Key Highlights of the Episode lost-wax ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Valeria Boncompagni 📢 Listen & Subscribe Love hearing stories of powerful women, Venetian artisans, and the quiet revolution of handmade art? This episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, or wherever you listen. ❤️ Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave us a review to keep Venice’s voices alive in the world!

Duration:00:48:12

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S3 Ep.12 - When Art Pollinates a City. A chat with Judi Harvest

6/26/2025
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 and culture, her work is a powerful blend of beauty and urgency. This is not just a conversation about art — it’s about transformation, memory, and the deep emotional threads that connect people to place. 🔹 Key Notes from the Episode: 🎧 If you love Venice, art with meaning, and stories that shimmer with life, this episode is for you. ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Judi Harvest 📢 Don’t forget to subscribe to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform — Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. 👉 And if this episode moved you, please leave a review and share it with fellow Venice lovers!

Duration:00:57:12

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S3 Ep.11 - From the UK to the Canals of Venice building boats

6/12/2025
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 quiet revolution of carving one’s place—literally and metaphorically—in a deeply rooted tradition. It’s a story of reinvention, resilience, and reverence for Venice’s maritime soul. Laura’s journey from the UK to Venice: beginnings, motives, transformationmaestro d’asciagender and traditionwood, water, and identitycraftsmanship bridges cultures ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Laura Pritchard 📢 Listen & Subscribe If you love stories of transformation, tradition, and the quiet power of craft, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform—Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, or wherever you listen. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a voice from the lagoon!

Duration:00:49:00

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S3 Ep.10 - The Last Dockyard Brotherhood: Stories from Venice’s Mutual Aid Society

6/5/2025
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: origins and missioncarpentieri e calafatievolvedpreserving historical memory and traditional craftsfuture of mutual support ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Cesare Peris from Società di Mutuo Soccorso fra Carpentieri e Calafati 📍Whether you’re passionate about Venice, history, or community-led initiatives, this is a conversation not to miss. 👉 Listen now on your favorite platform — and don’t forget to follow Venice Talks for more stories from the heart of the lagoon.

Duration:00:52:03

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S3 Ep.9 - NoCDA – The Venetian Movement Against the Access Fee | Interview with Alessandro Tonin

5/22/2025
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: Whether you live in Venice, love the city, or are curious about urban tourism challenges, this episode offers unique insights into a critical local debate. ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Alessandro Tonin, creator of NoCDA Don’t forget to listen, subscribe, and share Venice Talks to stay connected with authentic stories from the heart of Venice.

Duration:00:45:20

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S3 Ep.8 - Unveiling the Secrets of Murano Glass with Historian Michele Zampedri

5/1/2025
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! Key Highlights: Don't miss this insightful conversation! ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Michele Zampedri, Ceo Artigianato Muranese srl, part of Vivarini srl. Be sure to subscribe and follow to Venice Talks for more in-depth stories from the heart of Venice.

Duration:00:56:44

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S3 Ep.7 - Living Venetian History: A Costume Adventure in Venice with Venice Dress up Experience

4/10/2025
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 was living in another era, surrounded by the beauty and elegance of Venice’s past. In this episode, we dive into the magic of these transformations and how they allow visitors to connect with Venice in such a unique and memorable way. Leontine shares her passion for Venetian history, the incredible artistry behind each costume, and the unforgettable experiences people can have by immersing themselves in the city’s rich culture. Keynotes from the episode: A passion for Venetian historyThe transformative experienceCostumes as works of artCreating lasting memoriesThe spirit of Venice Carnival ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Leontine Hamer from Venice Dress Up Experience Don’t miss out on this incredible experience! Be sure to subscribe and follow for more amazing stories and episodes of Venice Talks. 🎭💫

Duration:00:26:57

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S3 Ep.6 - Making Italy Home – Insights for a Smooth Transition with Smart Move Italy

2/27/2025
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: ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Samantha Wilson from Smart Move Italy 🔔 Subscribe to Venice Talks and follow us for more stories about life in Venice and beyond!

Duration:00:45:00

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S3 Ep.5 - Mano a Mano: Reviving Venetian Craftsmanship with The Place of Wonders & Londra Palace Venezia

2/20/2025
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 impact on Italian artisans 🔹 How Mano a Mano selects and mentors Venetian craftmakers 🔹 The role of Londra Palace Venezia in supporting local craftsmanship 🔹 Challenges and successes in reviving traditional techniques 🔹 The future of Venetian artisanship in a globalized world ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Michela Canzi Babini, Director of The Place of Wonders Foundation, and Alain Bullo, Maitre de Maison & General Manager of Londra Palace Venezia 🎧 Tune in now to discover how Mano a Mano is keeping Venice’s artistic soul alive! 🔔 Subscribe & follow Venice Talks to never miss an episode!

Duration:00:51:33

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S3 Ep.4 - Unmasking Venice Carnival 2025: What’s New, What’s Next with Fabrizio D'Oria, Chief Operating Officer at Vela S.p.A

2/13/2025
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’t take place this year. 🔹 A closer look at Venetian traditions showcased during the celebrations. 🔹 The challenges of organizing a world-famous festival in Venice. 🔹 How the city is managing crowds and protecting its fragile environment. 🔹 The vital role of local artisans, musicians, and performers. 🔹 Sustainability efforts and how Carnival is adapting to modern challenges. 🔹 The future of Venice Carnival – what’s next for this iconic event? ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Fabrizio D’Oria, Chief Operating Officer at Vela S.p.A 🎧 Listen now to uncover the stories behind Venice Carnival 2025! 🔔 Subscribe for more exclusive insights into Venice’s most spectacular events!

Duration:00:35:55

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S3 Ep.3 - Crafting with Purpose - A Conversation with Stefania Giannici of Paperoowl

2/6/2025
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 an insightful conversation on balancing artistry, practicality, and passion for traditional crafts in today’s world. Key Takeaways: Paperoowl ensures sustainabilitymaterials and processesvalue of bespokeChallenges ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Stefania Giannici from Paperoowl Listen & Subscribe: Don’t miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on all things Venice.

Duration:00:47:56

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S3 Ep.2 - Venice Carnival 2025, Entry Tax & Literary Gems with Romena Brugnerotto

1/30/2025
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 2025The New Venice Entry TaxBooks in Venice ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Romena Brugnerotto from RomInVenice 🎧 Subscribe and Follow: Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Duration:00:43:02

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Shaping Venice: In Conversation with Councillor Simone Venturini

1/23/2025
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:Residence Policies:Economic Development:Sustainable Tourism:Vision for Venice: 🎧 Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Venice's evolving story and the initiatives shaping its present and future. ✨ Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Simone Venturini, Venice City Councillor for Social Cohesion, Residence Policies, Economic Development, Work, and Tourism 🔔 Subscribe: Don’t miss any of our episodes! Subscribe now to hear from the voices shaping Venice and its unique story. Whether you're a local, a frequent visitor, or simply an admirer from afar, Venice Talks keeps you connected to La Serenissima.

Duration:00:40:39

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S2 Ep.31 - The Magic of Venice: Fashion, Art, and Il Ballo del Doge. A chat with Antonia Sautter

12/19/2024
n this enchanting episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with the incomparable Antonia Sautter, a Venetian icon and creative force. From her intricate fashion designs to her visionary events, Antonia has become a symbol of Venice’s artistic spirit. Join us as we uncover the magic behind her world-renowned creations and her role as the founder of Il Ballo del Doge. Key Highlights: The Origins of Il Ballo del Doge:Fashion as Art:Venice Through Her Eyes:Behind the Curtain:Advice for Dreamers: Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Antonia Sautter, founder and artistic director of Il Ballo Del Doge Don’t forget to subscribe to Venice Talks on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more fascinating conversations about Venice’s culture, people, and stories. Hit play and let’s dive into the magic of Venice together! 🌟

Duration:00:47:57

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S2 Ep.30 - Xmas Special Edition - A Venetian Christmas Feast: Recipes, History & Festive Traditions

12/12/2024
Get ready to celebrate the holidays Venetian-style in this festive episode of Venice Talks! Monica takes you on a delightful journey through the flavors, traditions, and stories of Christmas in Venice, presenting a complete menu that’s sure to inspire your holiday table. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: A Full Venetian Christmas Menu:Sarde in SaorBigoli in SalsaZaetiHistorical Insights:Curiosities and Anecdotes:Tips for Your Holiday Table: This episode is not just about food; it’s about experiencing the warmth, history, and festive spirit of a Venetian Christmas. Perfect for food lovers, history buffs, and anyone who loves the charm of Venice during the holidays. Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Tune in now to be inspired by the flavors and stories of a Venetian Christmas, and don’t forget to subscribe to Venice Talks for more episodes that explore the rich culture, history, and cuisine of Venice. Share this episode with your friends, and let’s spread a little Venetian holiday cheer.

Duration:00:36:48

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S2 Ep.29 - Fair B&B: Redefining Travel. A chat with Emanuele Dal Carlo

12/5/2024
In this episode of Venice Talks, Monica sits down with Emanuele Dal Carlo, co-founder of Fair B&B, to discuss sustainable travel and its impact on local communities. 🌟 Key Highlights: Credits: Hosted by Monica Cesarato Produced by Monica Cesarato, Sentire Media Guest: Emanuele Dal Carlo, founding member of Fair B&B 🎧 Tune in for an enlightening conversation that reimagines the way we explore the world! 💡 Enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Venice Talks for more inspiring stories and expert insights!

Duration:00:48:54

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