Articles for category: Keep it Croatian with Sara

1 rujna, 2025

Sara Skoda

A Wellness Escape at AC Hotel Marriott Split: Our Visit to Yes to Beauty Spa

On our recent visit to the AC Hotel Marriott in Split, Daniel and I had the pleasure of experiencing the Yes to Beauty Spa, and it was nothing short of unforgettable. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with calming interiors, welcoming staff, and panoramic views of the city of Split that set the stage for true relaxation. I was treated to a rejuvenating Vitamin C facial, designed to refresh and brighten tired skin, while Daniel indulged in a deeply soothing stress relief massage. Both treatments were expertly delivered, leaving us not only refreshed but fully immersed in

30 lipnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

[VIDEO ON SPOTIFY] Slanting Toward Storytelling: A Conversation with Lidija Hilje

Recently, Croatians Online podcast host Sara Skoda welcomed Croatian author Lidija Hilje to discuss Hilje’s debut novel, Slanting Towards the Sea.  Lidija began by recounting her transition from practicing law in Croatian courts to embracing her literary calling. Central to the conversation was Hilje’s debut novel, Slanting Towards the Sea, set for release on July 8, 2025 via Simon & Schuster.  The novel spans two decades and centers on Ivona, who, after a painful divorce, returns to her Croatian hometown. When past and present collide along the Adriatic coast, emotionally complex relationships resurface, forcing characters to confront the delicate balance between

9 veljače, 2025

Sara Skoda

Masa Kolanovic’s Underground Barbie: Croatian Novel Makes Its English-Language Premiere

By Sara Skoda Masa Kolanovic, the Croatian author of Underground Barbie, has garnered international attention with the recent English translation of her compelling novel. Originally written in Croatian, Underground Barbie has resonated deeply with Croatian readers. The novel, now available in the USA, has become a topic of conversation, as the next exciting novel from a Croatian author to hit the global stage. With the English translation now available, Underground Barbie is making its mark in the USA. Kolanovic expressed her excitement about seeing her work reach new audiences and how the themes in her book transcend borders.  In the

8 prosinca, 2024

Sara Skoda

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] Mate Capin: A Journey from War to Advocacy – A Story of Resilience and Healing

Mate Capin’s story is one of profound transformation.  Living in Sweden, after leaving Croatia at a very young age.  His path was shaped by a series of defining moments, not the least of which was his decision to join the Croatian Homeland War in the early 1990s, in his early twenties. This decision would alter the course of his life, taking him from the frontlines of a brutal conflict to a long and difficult battle with the scars left by war—both physical and psychological. In this podcast interview, we take a closer look at Mate’s journey, his struggles with post-traumatic

17 studenoga, 2024

Sara Skoda

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] Embracing Culture: Naša Budućnost Executive Board Discusses the Importance of Cultural Engagement

In a recent podcast episode, the executive board of Naša Budućnost, a Croatian-American organization with roots from the island of Ilovik—Jessica Raguzin (President), Victoria Vidulich (Vice President), and Vanessa Raguzin (Secretary)—joined ‘Keep it Croatian’ host Sara for a compelling discussion on the significance of cultural organizations and the role of youth in preserving cultural heritage. The conversation began with the board members highlighting the critical role that cultural organizations play in fostering a sense of identity and community. They emphasized that engaging with one’s culture not only strengthens personal identity but also fosters connections with others who share similar backgrounds

5 studenoga, 2024

Sara Skoda

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] Discovering Croatia: Randall Olson’s Culinary and Wine Tours

Randall Olson, a Twin Cities native from Minnesota, has transformed his passion for travel into a thriving venture that showcases the beauty and culture of Croatia through curated wine and culinary tours. His tour invites travelers to explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant gastronomy of this stunning Mediterranean gem, particularly during the enchanting fall season. A Love Story with Croatia Randall’s journey began with a simple visit to Croatia, where he was instantly captivated by the country’s charm. From the lively streets of Zagreb to the picturesque hills of Istria and the stunning coastal views of Dubrovnik, Randall

9 rujna, 2024

Sara Skoda

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] Interview with Dino Ravnic: A Journey in Cutting-Edge Regenerative Medicine

In an insightful conversation with Sara Skoda from Croatians Online, Dino Ravnic, the esteemed Huck Chair in Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Sciences and Professor of Surgery, shared his remarkable journey from Croatia to the forefront of medical innovation. His story is not just about scientific achievement but also about deep personal connections and cultural roots. Despite the distance from his ancestral homeland, Ravnic’s connection to Croatia has always remained strong. His upbringing was marked by a blend of Croatian traditions and the influences of his new environment, instilling in him a sense of identity and resilience. Ravnic’s fascination with medicine

28 kolovoza, 2024

Sara Skoda

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] The Legacy of Art and Resilience: Kat Coric’s Journey and Her Gift to Dubrovnik

In an interview with Sara Skoda for Croatians Online, Kat Coric shared the poignant story behind her art, underscoring her enduring connection to her homeland, Dubrovnik. Born in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and currently based in Montreal, Coric’s multifaceted career as an artist, activist, and art collector has been profoundly shaped by her experiences during the Croatian Homeland War of the early 1990s. Kat Coric’s childhood was deeply intertwined with her Croatian heritage. Her parents, Ivan and Marija Coric, instilled in her a strong sense of her roots, speaking Croatian at home and celebrating traditional meals. This cultural immersion was further enriched

12 kolovoza, 2024

Croatians Online

From Split to Harvard: Dr. Alen Juginovic’s Cutting-Edge Research in Neuroscience and Sleep Medicine

Croatians Online recently had the privilege of engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Alen Juginovic, a distinguished figure in the fields of neuroscience, sleep medicine, and neurology who is currently based at Harvard University. Born in Split, Croatia, Dr. Juginovic has made significant contributions to our understanding of the brain and its complex functions. The interview, conducted by Sara Skoda, offered a deep dive into Dr. Juginovic’s research interests and the exciting developments in his areas of expertise. One of the key areas of Dr. Juginovic’s research is sleep medicine. Sleep, a vital component of overall health, has long

6 kolovoza, 2024

Sara Skoda

Nathalia Mocivuna: Bridging Global Connections Through Croatian Citizenship

In a recent podcast interview with Sara Skoda for Croatians Online, Nathalia Mocivuna shared her inspiring journey and the vision behind her business, Salona Consulting, a thriving business dedicated to helping people worldwide reconnect with their Croatian heritage through citizenship. Nathalia’s story is one of passion and perseverance. Growing up in Brazil, she always felt a profound connection to her Croatian ancestry. This cultural bond, though distant geographically, remained a significant part of her identity. After studying and living in Croatia, she moved to Switzerland, and recognized an opportunity to turn her personal connection into a professional mission. Her goal