When the conversation begins and ends discussing favorite eateries and obscure museums in Bologna, you know it’s going to be a great chat. I was lucky enough to spend two hours speaking with the 44th U.S. diplomatic representative in Florence, US Consul General Benjamin Wohlauer, a role that covers Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and the Republic of San Marino.

Ben has been in the role for almost one year exactly and speaks about his career evolution, thoughts on American students in Florence and shares his best book recommendations for Italy. Enjoy our interview below and keep an eye and an ear out for a new project bringing together 200 years of partnerships #Insieme200 (#Together200) between Americans and Italians, set to kick off in 2019.