In this episode, we’re joined by actress, writer, and storyteller Christine McBurney, whose life took an unexpected turn when, in her 50s, a DNA test revealed something she never imagined… she was half Italian.

What began as a search for answers about her father quickly turned into something much deeper uncovering family secrets, long-hidden truths, and a completely new understanding of who she is.

Christine shares her incredible journey of discovering her Italian roots, connecting with relatives she never knew existed, and piecing together a story that had been kept from her for decades. Along the way, she reflects on identity, family, and the emotional impact of finally learning the truth.

Now, she’s bringing this powerful story to life through her solo show DNA Doesn’t Lie, But My Mother Did and an upcoming short film, Tutto inspired by her experience.

✨ If you’d like to support Christine’s film project Tutto (Everything) or learn more about her work, check out the links below:

🎬 Film Fundraiser: https://seedandspark.com/fund/tutto-everything#story
🌐 Website: https://www.christinemcburney.com/
📸 Instagram: @christinemcbc

In 1906 Denver, a young Italian immigrant named Carmelina Fiorino stood in her kitchen and made a decision that would change her life forever.

After leaving Calabria at just 15 years old, Carmelina found herself in a troubled marriage with a much older man who had abandoned his family in Italy to pursue her. What followed was a relationship marked by control, jealousy, and alleged abuse—one that would ultimately end in violence.

When Carmelina shot and killed her husband, the question quickly became: was this murder… or self-defense?

As newspapers sensationalized her story and the courtroom filled with conflicting testimonies, Carmelina’s case forced a jury to decide whether she was a cold-blooded killer—or a young woman pushed to her breaking point.

In this episode, we explore the life of Carmelina Fiorino, the events leading up to that tragic night, and the trial that captivated Denver in the early 20th century.

In this episode, I sit down with Deron Benvenuti, author of The Land of Milk and Honey An Immigrant Tale of Rags to Riches In America, to talk about the incredible life of his grandfather, Joseph Benvenuti. An Italian immigrant who built a life in America through grit, resilience, and determination.

From shining shoes at just six years old…
to supporting his family during the Great Depression…
to starting over and chasing opportunity out west…

This is a powerful, multi-generational story of hardship, faith, and the true meaning of the American Dream.

We also dive into the deeper layers of family history—what gets passed down, what gets left out, and why these stories matter more than ever.

Buy the book and follow Deron at

gowestmyboy.com

Instagram @landofmilkandhoney2025

Facebook - The Land Of Milk And Honey 2025