Pull up a seat at the table — it’s time for another warm, laughter-filled conversation with the Lunchtime in Rome crew. In Episode 325, titled “We’re Getting Somewhere With This,” the hosts are joined by Amy and Bella for a relaxed catch-up that feels like grabbing lunch with old friends.

The episode opens with a quick, slightly gross personal story that sets a playful tone right away (yes, it involves a tick the size of a nickel). From there, the conversation shifts into real life updates and the kind of easy, meandering storytelling that makes this show so enjoyable.

Backyard Dreams and Summer Vibes

One of the highlights is hearing about the ongoing effort to actually use the backyard patio this year. After regretting how little it got used last summer, there’s been some serious cleaning and refreshing happening — including pressure washing pretty much everything out there. The big excitement? A new-to-them outdoor sectional couch that was gifted from friends (with a funny clarification that “nobody died”).

Expect talk of wooded views, fireflies making a return appearance (with a callback to last week’s episode), plans for string lights, and the hope of turning the space into a true summer hangout spot. Of course, Pittsburgh humidity makes its obligatory appearance in the discussion.

A Legendary Trip Down Memory Lane

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as the group reminisces about a mission trip to Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. One name keeps coming up: Skinner — a lean, hardworking guy who hitchhiked his way down to help and quickly became legendary within the crew for his work ethic… and his appetite.

Without giving too much away, let’s just say there’s a memorable buffet story involving CC’s that has the group laughing and comparing notes with competitive eating greats. It’s the kind of “you had to be there” tale that lands perfectly in the Lunchtime in Rome style — equal parts hilarious, wholesome, and a little bit gross in the best way.

Food Talk and Travel Stories

As always, food makes its way into the chat. The group discusses buffets (both the love and the skepticism), Brazilian steakhouses like Fogo de Chão, and some memorable travel dining experiences (including a questionable breakfast choice from a trip to St. Lucia). It’s light, fun, and full of the relatable opinions you’d expect from friends debating where to eat.

The Vibe

Throughout the hour, the chemistry with guests Amy and Bella keeps things lively and warm. There’s catching up on life since Amy was last on, plenty of good-natured ribbing, time confusion banter, and that signature Lunchtime in Rome feeling of sitting around a table where everyone is welcome.

Episode 325 is relaxed, funny, nostalgic, and genuinely encouraging — the perfect mid-week listen if you need a reminder that progress (on patios, projects, or just life) often happens in the small, everyday moments and conversations.

Ready to hear the full stories?The tick tale, the Skinner saga, the patio plans, and all the laughs are waiting for you.

Listen to Episode 325 now on your favorite platform or directly at lunchtimeinrome.com.

While you’re there, take the Relational Needs Questionnaire — it’s a simple, insightful tool to check in on how you’re doing in your most important relationships.

Follow the show on social media for more updates, and we’ll see you next week for Episode 326!

Thanks for pulling up a seat at the table.

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe