Today we’d like to introduce you to Roni DaRonche-Nielsen.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I come from a huge Italian family, with deep roots both here and in Italy. My childhood was filled with love, laughter, lots of cousins, and amazing friends—I truly couldn’t have asked for a better upbringing. As an Italian American who grew up here in the beautiful state of Utah, I’ve always cherished my rich cultural heritage and the vibrant traditions that come with it. As a wife, a mom, and the host of Keep Stirring the Sauce Podcast, I’ve made it my mission to share the stories, cuisine, and traditions that make Italian American culture so special. I thought, “What better way to explore, celebrate, and share this heritage than through a platform where people can truly experience it?” And that’s how the podcast came to life.
While the podcast centers on Italian-American culture, we also dive into other amazing cultures, exploring the similarities and differences that unite us all. It’s an exciting journey where we not only talk about food, history, and traditions but also share stories and interviews that bring diverse communities together. It’s all about celebrating the cultures that make us who we are!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road definitely hasn’t been completely smooth, but every challenge has been an opportunity for growth. Like many new ventures, there were moments of doubt, especially in the beginning, when it felt like I was figuring things out from scratch. From learning the technical side of podcasting to balancing family life as a wife and mom, it’s been a lot to juggle! There were times when I questioned if I was doing enough or if the podcast would resonate with listeners.
Another challenge was navigating the different aspects of creating a podcast – from booking guests to ensuring the content was not only entertaining but also meaningful. But what I’ve learned is that persistence, staying true to my vision, and building a community around the podcast has made all the hard work worth it. Plus, having the support of my family and the wonderful guests we’ve had on the show has helped me see, everyone wants to hear people’s stories!
Overall, it has had rewarding moments, like hearing from listeners and seeing how the podcast connects people to their own cultures, have made every struggle worth it. It’s also been warmly received, and the support from listeners and the Italian American community has been truly amazing. It’s all the encouragement I need to keep going!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m the host of Keep Stirring the Sauce Podcast, where I explore the rich culture, authentic cuisine, and stories of Italian-Americans, while also celebrating other cultures as well. My work focuses on bringing people together through shared experiences, stories, and food, all while offering a genuine, down-to-earth perspective on what makes each culture unique and beautiful. I have always said, “Everyone has a story!” and I want to share that.
My intent with the Podcast is creating meaningful conversations that connect people to their heritage and to each other. I’m known for my passion for culture, my love of storytelling, and my ability to bring out the best in my guests. The podcast is about more than just an interview —it’s about exploring traditions, histories, and personal stories that reflect the diversity and richness of the communities we discuss. It’s important for me to showcase the unsung heroes, the people who are working hard to keep their traditions alive while also contributing to the growth and success of their local areas.
I’m most proud of how Keep Stirring the Sauce has grown into a platform that fosters inclusivity and celebrates diversity. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear from listeners who feel a personal connection to the stories shared on the show, whether they’re of Italian descent or from completely different backgrounds. Seeing how the podcast resonates with people, and how it encourages others to embrace their own cultural identities, is what truly makes all the hard work worthwhile.
What sets me apart is my genuine approach. I’m not just interviewing guests; I’m building a community around shared values and the belief that our differences are what make us stronger. I also prioritize making the show accessible, fun, and relatable, so anyone—whether they share the same background or not—can enjoy and learn from the conversations.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I’ve lived in Salt Lake City all my life, and there’s so much to love about it! Salt Lake City has so much to offer, and there’s so much to love! What I like best is the combination of outdoor beauty and vibrant community life. The access to nature here is incredible—the mountains, the parks, and the outdoor activities really make this city stand out. I also love the diverse community and the growing cultural scene, with so many local businesses, events, and creative initiatives that celebrate different cultures and backgrounds. It’s exciting to see how the city is evolving, and it feels like there’s always something new to explore!
As for what I like least, it’s the traffic—especially during rush hour. It can definitely be a challenge to get around sometimes, but it’s a small price to pay for living in such a beautiful and dynamic place. Overall, I’m a huge fan of Salt Lake City and proud to call it HOME!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://keepstirringthesaucepodcast.podbean.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepstirringthesaucepodcast/
- Other: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-keep-stirring-the-sauce-p-261152533/
