Wendy Pojmann’s book started with a raised eyebrow. She was on her way into the state archives in Rome and stopped at her usual bar. The barista heard her American accent and asked, gently, whether she was sure she didn’t want an Americano.

She was sure. But the question stayed with her: why do Italians drink espresso, and why do the rest of us drink something so different? Three years later, she had written Espresso: The Art and Soul of Italy. She researched bars and roasteries in Rome, Turin and Naples, with her Roman husband as her insider guide.

In our conversation, Wendy explains why the Italian coffee break is short by design. It’s a real pause from work and a few minutes of genuine connection with the people around you. Then everyone goes back to their day.

She also explains the cappuccino rule (spoiler: it’s about milk and sleep), what’s in her own kitchen, and why the moka pot isn’t really espresso.

The part that stayed with me most was her mother-in-law. She is 94, an artist who had a show in Helsinki this summer, and she still goes out every day for the market, the pharmacy and her espresso at the bar. Small errands, close to home, each one a reason to move and to see people. It’s longevity without a program, just a life built around the piazza.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation:

📖 Wendy’s info: https://siena.academia.edu/WendyPojmann🇮🇹 Want to experience this rhythm firsthand? https://avantihealth.github.io/avanti-immersion/#join