Meet Carlo, our Milwaukeean of the week, who’s serving nonprofits and serving up southside crime drama. With deep roots in Milwaukee and a tight-knit Italian family, he pays homage to his upbringing in both his business, and now, writing career.
“I grew up surrounded by many of my cousins, all of us sharing a similar culture and background. That close-knit environment was hugely impactful — it gave me a deep sense of family, loyalty, and identity. I saw struggles up close — and the grit and drive that comes from that has been an important part of who I am.”
He studied at Carroll University, where he also played basketball; another channel that he credits for his discipline and relationships he still carries with him through his professional and creative life today.
He started his career in sales and product management and grew into executive leadership roles with companies like Direct Supply and Brady Corporation before taking on his current role at Little Rapids.
He currently sits as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of Graham Professional, a Division of Little Rapids Corporation, where he oversees strategy, operations, and growth for the delivery of disposable medical and beauty products.
In a surprising turn of events, he said his tenure at large corporations, along with a challenging time in his life, ultimately unlocked a different side of him – a more creative side.
“Spending years in the business community taught me the resilience to lead, and it’s also where I discovered my entrepreneurial spirit. Founding Verde Entertainment and writing my first novel, The Sins We Inherit, has been a life-changing experience. What started as journaling during a difficult season of life grew into a passion for storytelling.”
His debut novel, The Sins We Inherit, is a gritty crime drama with Milwaukee at its core; “it’s a heartfelt story about family, legacy, and the ways the past refuses to stay buried. The novel follows Costantino “Cost” Caduto II as he returns to his family’s orbit after the death of his grandfather, Tiger, a man whose shadow looms over Milwaukee’s underworld and over Cost’s own conflicted heart while struggling to reconnect with his daughter.”
While The Sins We Inherit may seem solely like a mafia crime novel, Carlo says it’s simply a family drama surrounded by crime. His goal is to shine a light on familial trauma to help people heal from their past and find redemption while simultaneously highlighting Milwaukee’s unique stories to ‘strengthen our city’s cultural voice’.
“Milwaukee has grit, heart, and authenticity. It’s a place where family and community still matter, and where people carry a deep pride in their roots. I love the mix of cultures here — and how that creates such a unique identity for the city.”
When he’s not working or writing, Carlo also believes strongly in giving back, whether it be to local universities, social services, or community nonprofits across the Milwaukee area. He served on Braady Corporations Foundation board of Directors and currently serves on the advisory board for Tuatara, a managed services business that does incredible work supporting veterans and advancing mental health initiatives. Carlo says, “both experiences have been rewarding ways to give back and connect with causes that matter deeply to me.”
When asked what he’d like to see for the future of Milwaukee, Carlo said:
“I’d love to see Milwaukee embrace its creative side even more — storytelling, art, music, and film. We have the talent and the depth of experience to rival any city. I also want to see continued investment in opportunities for young people so they can thrive here without feeling they have to leave to succeed.”
The book is now finding real momentum with strong reviews, award recognition, and growing sales. “It’s been incredible to see a story so rooted in Milwaukee resonate with readers everywhere. “
Readers have described it as gritty, heartfelt, and cinematic — and it’s already earned national critical acclaim, including a 5-star review from Literary Titan and recognition from multiple award programs.
The book is available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at beloved local bookstores like Boswell Books and Lion’s Tooth.
“My hope is that it not only entertains but also shines a spotlight on Milwaukee’s cultural identity and storytelling power.”