The morning after Barack Obama’s 2008 election, Armand DiMele and Dr. Bernard Starr, PhD, Psychologist, unpack the jubilation in the streets and what it means when politically disengaged people suddenly wake up. Callers share tears, renewed patriotism, and one listener’s struggle as a single-issue voter who lost.
Why do we party hard, eat grapes, burn dolls, and bang pots at midnight? Armand traces New Year customs from ancient Babylon and Rome through modern celebrations in Korea, Colombia, Taiwan, and beyond, weaving in listener calls about Puerto Rican, Black American, and other personal traditions.
Why do Mediterranean immigrants gain weight in America but not at home? Armand and co-host Roberta Maria Atti open with a theory about American wheat before ranging into the psychology of celebration, how to handle holidays alone without turning sadness into anger, and practical remedies for holiday overindulgence.
Armand DiMele’s own birthday becomes the occasion for listeners to share their best and worst birthday memories. Callers open up about longing for recognition, an alcoholic and shaming family, the guilt of estrangement, and the quiet joy of finally feeling celebrated. Honest, warm radio.
