IAP 377: Translating Identity: Steve Riggio on Sicily, Storytelling, & Il Beati Paoli

Join us as we welcome the esteemed Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes & Noble, whose journey into Italian literature unfolds in our latest episode, recorded in the heart of Little Italy at Red Sauce Studio. Drawing on his deep Sicilian roots, Steve shares his passion for translating Italian classics, offering a rare window into the overlooked narratives of Sicilian folklore and history.

We delve into how translating I Beati Paoli became a deeply personal and healing endeavor, reconnecting Steve with his family’s story and cultural heritage. Our conversation weaves through Sicily’s rich past—from its role as a historical crossroads to the legends of the Beati Paoli, a secretive brotherhood devoted to avenging injustice. We contrast their shadowy moral code with the mafia’s brutality, shedding light on the profound differences between folklore and criminal reality.

Along the way, we reflect on Sicily’s resilience, cultural pride, and pivotal political transformations, considering how these shape modern perceptions and fuel a renewed interest in the island’s legacy through literature and media.

As the episode concludes, we turn to Steve’s insights from his tenure at Barnes & Noble, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit behind its rise. He speaks candidly about challenging stereotypes and upholding Italian American dignity in the face of enduring bias. Together, we underscore the value of real, heartfelt stories over fictionalized mafia tropes—stories that echo the shared experiences of our community.

Tune in for a moving exploration of culture, literature, and identity, woven into the vibrant tapestry of the Italian American experience.

WHERE TO BUY THE BOOK:

https://www.sicilianavengers.com/