Roots, Resilience, and Rainmakers: A Conversation with Giancarlo Lorusso

As hosts of Humans of the World, we have the privilege of connecting with extraordinary individuals, each with a story that captures the richness of human experience. Our recent conversation with Giancarlo Lorusso was no exception. His journey is a vivid tapestry of family, heritage, and ambition—woven together with the resilience of his Italian roots and the spirit of reinvention.

Giancarlo’s story begins, as so many Italian tales do, with a family farm. A hundred-acre olive farm in Torano Castello, passed down through generations, is at the heart of his family’s legacy. “My grandfather bought it when it was on fire,” Giancarlo recalled with pride, his voice carrying the weight of history and triumph. Today, that same land, with its thousand olive trees, is a lush testament to his family’s determination and love.

The farm was more than a home; it was a sanctuary. When Giancarlo’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2012, the family decided to send his parents back to Italy. “It was for my mother, too,” he told us, sharing how caregiving had taken a toll on her. The community stepped in, as only close-knit Italian families do, to support and care for his father.

Listening to Giancarlo recount these moments, we could sense his deep connection to family and heritage. It’s clear that the olive farm represents more than just land—it’s a living symbol of perseverance, a space where memories of loved ones remain rooted.

But Giancarlo’s journey doesn’t stop at the farm. His life in New York and Los Angeles unfolded like a movie script—one he may well have written himself. Starting as a young entrepreneur at 13, organizing breakdance parties with his confirmation money, he grew into a concert promoter, then a filmmaker, and now a creative visionary.

“I follow my instincts and manifestations,” Giancarlo explained when we asked how he’s navigated his eclectic career. From his first movie, made on a credit card, to producing award-winning films and commercials, he’s built a life around creativity and adaptability. And yet, for Giancarlo, the biggest rewards have been intangible.

He spoke about the joy of caring for his 85-year-old mother, a woman he describes as the matriarch of his family. “She took care of everyone, and now it’s my turn,” he said with a smile that reflected both duty and love. These simple moments—bringing her a double espresso in the morning, ensuring she’s comfortable—are what ground him now.

Giancarlo’s philosophy resonates deeply with us. “In life, we just don’t know what’s going to happen,” he said. “But when things happen organically, that’s when magic unfolds.” His approach to life is both inspiring and a reminder of the beauty in embracing the unknown.

As we wrapped up our conversation, we couldn’t help but marvel at Giancarlo’s ability to bridge worlds—Italy and America, tradition and modernity, family and ambition. He embodies the spirit of a “Rainmaker,” a term he uses to describe himself. A Rainmaker, he explained, is someone who brings abundance wherever they go. And in Giancarlo’s case, that abundance takes the form of inspiration, connection, and unwavering passion.

Through his story, we were reminded of the power of roots—how they ground us, nourish us, and provide the strength to grow. Giancarlo’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and we feel privileged to have shared a small part of it with you.

Until next time,

with Love
Marco and Erica