Today's post is a little different and was quite unexpected for me too.
A few weeks ago I had the honor of meeting Paolo, the talented blogger behind 'Quatro fromaggio and Other Disgraces on the Menu', in person while he was visiting Italy. Paolo's blog accurately describes authentic Italian cuisine in an effort to preserve it from the horrors often inflicted upon it abroad.
We had a real Neapolitan pizza, or as close as you can get to one when not in Naples, and a long chat, which continued at my place in the form of a podcast.
You see, a while back Paolo started a new section on his blog called 'Thoughts on the Table', podcasts in which he chats with chefs, scientists and bloggers about everything and anything food. So when he contacted me before his trip and suggested recording a podcast together, I felt very honored to be included in such a crowd.
You see, a while back Paolo started a new section on his blog called 'Thoughts on the Table', podcasts in which he chats with chefs, scientists and bloggers about everything and anything food. So when he contacted me before his trip and suggested recording a podcast together, I felt very honored to be included in such a crowd.
I cannot begin to tell you how uncomfortable I was initially: I am that person that needs to record my voicemail message over and over because I invariably crack up every time I start speaking into a microphone (yes, he actually had a portable mike on him). Also, we had not prepared any questions beforehand, so we were totally improvising. Thankfully Paolo has experience working in radio and was a great host, making me feel right at home (forgive the pun) and as a result I only found myself cringing once or twice while relistening to myself (the first time being upon hearing my recorded voice... ugh!).
To listen to us, click directly onto the logo or here to go over to Paolo's, or hop on over directly to iTunes.
To listen to us, click directly onto the logo or here to go over to Paolo's, or hop on over directly to iTunes.
Fiona, it was a pleasure to meet you in person in Milan - thanks so much for the hospitality and accepting to be in the podcast! You have done a fantastic job in painting a picture of Milan and its evolving culture. And you're such a good speaker, you must have really high standards for yourself if this made you cringe :) Thanks also for introducing my blog to your readers, much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteThank you Paolo for many of the same reasons: for your kindness, professionality and for introducing my blog to all of your readers. I really had fun working on this project together, it was one of those experiences that reminded me what I love about blogging: meeting people who are like-minded and who share my same passions, pushing my boundaries, and finally experiencing new things I never would have had the opportunity to if I hadn't embarked on this blogging adventure!
DeleteOra non posso ma mi segno e ti ascolteró! ;)
ReplyDeleteFammi sapere! ;o)
DeleteHow fun! I'm off to listen to your interview now :D
ReplyDeleteThat was so much fun to listen to! And I loved your comment about blogging to stay true to yourself rather than posting just for comments :)
ReplyDeleteSo glad you enjoyed it, it is nice to get positive feedback from a blogger that I truly admire!
DeleteIt was great hearing your voice Fiona and knowing a bit more about you! I loved this!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you enjoyed it! Thank you
DeleteCongratulations and I think you're very brave. I too become very shy, and a touch self-conscious when it comes to being on stage or being recorded. I just cringe. I've just been asked to cook a recipe in front of 10-15 people - I've developed a nervous rash at the very thought of it! xx
ReplyDeleteA close friend of mine calls me a closet cooker, and she is absolutely right! As soon as somebody is watching me, I make the silliest mistakes, like I forget to put in an ingredient, so I understand exactly what you mean! That is even scarier than an interview (although it was really tough listening to myself again before it was posted).
DeleteOh my goodness! What a fabulous topic to discuss! Off to listen now. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to listen to this, Fiona! And I really look forward to checking out Paolo's blog. I, too, am a purist when it comes to Italian food. One reason is my allergy to garlic. The strange concept Americans have that every Italian dish must have 6-8 cloves of garlic is really annoying. When I travel, I choose Italy above all others because they use garlic as one might use cardamom. It belongs here, but not there... I eat better (with no garlic) in Italy than anywhere else on the planet, other than my own kitchen. Oh, and America's use of too much garlic is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of crimes we commit against good food! Long live tradition! ~ David
ReplyDeleteSounds like you and Paolo could have an interesting exchange of emails if you ask me!
DeleteI really enjoyed listening to your conversation with Paolo, Fiona! What an interesting life you've had—and I was surprised to hear that, after all your years of travel, you still speak perfect, accent less English.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you enjoyed, I loved your interview. You are a natural!
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