In the charming medieval village of Offagna, nestled in the heart of the Riviera del Conero and the Hills of the Infinite, there’s a small but vibrant space where communication, technology, and shared work coexist in perfect harmony.
We spoke with Cristian Tava, born in Milan but “Marchigiano by love” — a professional communicator, trainer and consultant for over 12 years — who carries out his work, as he likes to say, “with one foot in the past and eyes wide open toward the future.”
Cristian, before talking about your fascinating projects related to the power of voice, tell us your story. Why did you choose the Marche and Offagna after leaving Milan?
“It’s a bit of a long story. I chose the Marche for love. In 1991, on the Conero, I met my wife. A few months later, we moved to Milan to chase our dreams. But the Marche never left our hearts. Offagna has always been special — we got married here and spent years participating in the Medieval Festivals, sharing our passion for craftsmanship.
Today, it’s the heart of our project, Villaggio Saggio, an initiative promoting circular economy and sustainable living in small towns.”
In this space, you produce podcasts, teach Public Speaking and more. What happens inside this creative hub?
“The villages have incredible potential. During a festival dedicated to the Apennines, I was struck by a quote from Giovanni Lindo Ferretti of CCCP:
‘Those who live in the villages will be the ones who survive the future.’
That idea inspired me. We transformed Offagna’s old bank into a shared workspace, a place filled not only with technology but with human values.
We added a training classroom (in the former driving school) and an open-air space behind the Rocca.
Here, we develop activities connected to circular economy, communication, and creativity.”
How did your passion for podcasts begin, and what topics do you explore?
“We currently produce around 20–21 podcasts. Some are commissioned, others born from sudden inspiration. Among future projects is Come Grisù, inspired by the cartoon dragon, dedicated to over-50 start-ups — people who turned their dreams into reality.
We also cover ecology, circular economy, tiny houses, neurolinguistics, noir fiction, communication, and of course, the village of Offagna with its Medieval Festivals.
Behind each podcast lies study, curiosity, and dedication — it’s an authorship craft, not improvisation.”
Speaking in public isn’t easy. How do your Public Speaking classes work?
“Speaking is natural, but speaking in public is an art. My courses help people feel confident with their voice. Public Speaking doesn’t make you a great orator overnight, but it helps you face a crowd, a microphone, or a camera with serenity.
It’s not about performance — it’s a personal journey that enhances self-awareness and authenticity.”
What advice would you give to those who want to start podcasting?
“First, join our voice casting sessions — a free format we held recently in Ancona. Participants go through three tests: interview, reading, and improvisation. It helps them understand their strengths and direction.
Second, start small: record at home, even in a wardrobe for soundproofing! Most importantly, be genuine. Perfection is sterile — passion is what resonates.”
What’s next for you, Cristian?
“Sometimes being ahead of your time makes you look crazy! My next dream is to open a school of awareness.
After four years of work, Scuola Viva Io will open in September, dedicated to young people with dyslexia (16+), combining communication, manual skills, and agriculture.
At 50, I feel the need to be a mentor — to pass on what I’ve learned and inspire the next generation.”
For more about Cristian’s work, visit his official website and discover opportunities to improve your public speaking and embrace authentic communication.