Teresa Lara Pugliese

From Language Teacher to Founder: Building “Italian by Lara” into a Cultural & Digital Brand

: I’m Dr. Lara, founder of Italian by Lara, and my business was born from my personal story.

I grew up in Italy with a Polish mother, which meant I was raised between cultures from the very beginning. Language was never just a subject in school — it was identity, belonging, and sometimes even confusion. Speaking more than one language showed me that words carry culture, history, emotion, and perspective.

Later, when I moved to the UK, that awareness became even deeper. Living abroad made me truly understand what it means to feel connected — or disconnected — from your roots. I realized that language alone is not enough. What people really long for is cultural understanding, emotional connection, and a sense of belonging.

That realization became the foundation of Italian by Lara.

I don’t just teach Italian grammar. I teach culture, nuance, mindset, and identity. I created a space where learning a language becomes a way to connect — to yourself and to others.

On your podcast, I would love to share:
• What growing up with a Polish mother taught me about identity and belonging
• How moving to the UK shaped my entrepreneurial vision
• Why culture matters more than vocabulary
• How personal story can become a powerful business foundation

My journey is about turning personal experience into purpose, and building a business rooted in authenticity, culture, and connection.