Unpacking the 'Real Problem': Italian-American Community Navigates Internal Dynamics

In a recent podcast segment, hosts from 'Cresciuto Italiano' engaged in a candid discussion about what they termed 'the real problem' within the Italian-American community. The conversation, featuring three individuals, delved into the complex internal dynamics, particularly addressing a perceived undercurrent of jealousy.One of the hosts, referring to the 'Cresciuto Italiano' brand, remarked, 'Cresciuto Italiano is copying us!' This statement, delivered with a hint of playful exasperation, underscored a broader point raised by the group: a tendency within the community for individuals to desire others to 'do well, but never better than them.'Another participant elaborated on this observation, stating, 'This is the problem with Italians here.' They shared an illustrative anecdote: 'If Sabino tells me, "I won an Oscar," I'm happy for him... but Italian people, you tell them you have a camera, "I have 4." You have a caffettiera, "I have 3." You know, they're never... a castle, "Ah, I have 4, or 6."' This humorous yet poignant example highlighted a competitive spirit that can sometimes manifest as a reluctance to celebrate unreserved success.The discussion concluded with the hosts emphasizing their own different approach. 'But us here, we aren't bitter,' one host affirmed. Another added, 'No, but also because we're all so different.' This sentiment suggests a desire to foster a more supportive and less competitive environment within the evolving Italian-American identity.