Transforming
Collaboration

One HEALTHCARE TEAM at a time

Healthcare is in crisis—and Dr. Carlo Riolo has spent over 20 years on the frontlines. He’s led teams through high-pressure environments, burnout cycles, and the relentless daily demands that have pushed many practitioners to their limits. Through it all, he’s built a system that not only supports patient care, but also protects the people delivering it.

Built on Experience.
Driven by Purpose.

Author
Speaker
Founder / DVM

Collaborative Process

A System for Perpetual Growth

Most teams in the medical field are stuck in reaction mode—pulled in every direction by stress, caseloads, and constant dysfunction. Without an actual process, burnout and hopelessness are inevitable.

Developed in a high-stakes, 24/7 urgent care environment, The Collaborative Process™ moves leaders from chaos-to-order-to-growth by creating a structured, sustainable operating path that values team care as much as patient care.

Whether you’re a healthcare practice owner, practitioner, or employee seeking a more rewarding and fulfilling career, one free from the typical disorganization, burnout and overwhelm, Dr. Riolo is showing the entire healthcare industry there is a better way, one that values the people working in healthcare as much as the people receiving healthcare.

The Game Hasn't Changed.
But the Player Can.

Dr. Riolo spent years working to change a broken system—until he realized the real leverage point was the individual and the teams. The Collaborative Process™ is an end-to-end system for running a high performing medical practice. It gives healthcare leaders and their teams concrete, on-the-ground methods, tools, and daily practices, redefining what’s possible in an industry struggling under the weight of inefficient, outdated ways.

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About Carlo

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Carlo A. Riolo, DVM

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When Dr. Carlo Riolo entered veterinary medicine, he saw an industry built on overworked professionals, failing systems, and reactive survival. Instead of accepting dysfunction, he built a better way. After two decades of practice and relentless experimentation, he developed The Collaborative Process (TCP)—an end-to-end system designed to create lasting change by focusing on individual responsibility, structured problem-solving, and perpetual growth. His journey was never easy.

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He faced loss and abandonment but pushed against an industry resistant to change, transforming a business stuck in chaos into one driven by growth.
Today, Carlo runs one of north-central Wisconsin’s largest 24/7 veterinary walk-in/urgent care centers, leading a team that grew from 10 to over 70 employees—a team committed to supporting each other and growing together. Carlo lives in the Midwest with his wife and children, where he continues to refine and expand The Collaborative Process into new communities and industries ready to evolve.

Testimonials

“With Carlo’s approach, I can follow issues and solutions so much easier now. Using Asana alongside his process makes updates more user-friendly than the old hardcopy methods. It’s smoother, smarter, and way more transparent.”

DeAnna L.
Current Employee

“I’m still new, but Carlo has made the transition seamless. His knowledge database is fast and easy to use—especially during high-pressure situations. It saved me during my training more than once. I love how efficient and supportive the system he built really is.”

Kaila F.
Current Employee

“Working with Carlo has accelerated my growth in veterinary medicine. His systems make it easy to find help when needed, and he always makes sure our wins don’t go unnoticed. It’s great to work in an environment where you feel supported and recognized.”

Victoria C.
Current Employee

“Carlo creates a culture where growth is encouraged and mistakes are treated as learning moments. He helps foster confidence in your role without fear of being judged. It’s about progress, not perfection—and that has made all the difference in how I show up to work every day.”

June M.
Current Employee

“I had a rough moment once involving a stray pet and no clear process—but Carlo made sure my concerns were heard. He turned that awkward experience into a learning opportunity and implemented a solution right away. It’s empowering to see issues actually get fixed.”

Hailey G.
Current Employee

“What I appreciate most is how Carlo keeps our resources accessible and always up to date. When new policies come out, he rolls them out quickly and makes sure we can reference them at any time. It’s that consistency and responsiveness that make a real difference in our daily work.”

Alison A.
Current Employee

“Core Training with Carlo was exactly what I needed. He mixes reading, visuals, and hands-on learning to match every learning style. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both professionally and personally. Carlo makes sure everyone is prepared and supported.”

Marissa N.
Current Employee

“In all the jobs I’ve had, Carlo is the only leader who genuinely asks for feedback—and uses it. Most places say they want input, but Carlo actually listens and adapts. His way of embracing change encourages all of us to look for ways to improve rather than stay stuck in outdated habits.”

Anne J.
Current Employee

“Thanks to Carlo, our workplace actually listens. Whether it's dimming lights for someone or getting an ice maker for staff, he follows through. When I started, I had to rely on my own notes. Now, Carlo’s searchable system saves time and stress—especially when things change. It’s so much more efficient.”

Trenity C.
Current Employee

“Carlo always says, ‘The only thing that stays the same is change’—and he really lives by it. The clarity I get from the knowledge database makes it easy to look up anything I need, fast. If a process changes, Carlo ensures it's updated in Asana and accessible right away. That consistency has helped me tremendously in my role.”

Alexis N.
Current Employee

The Journey

Career Day
Career Day
Career Day
1987
At five years old, Carlo declared he wanted to be a veterinarian. For Career Day, his mother wrote "DVM" on a white button-down shirt. Family and teachers reinforced the idea, and soon, every interaction with an animal felt like a step toward that future. After earning his degree, his mother framed that same shirt as a graduation gift, a fulfillment of his childhood dream.
At five years old, Carlo declared he wanted to be a veterinarian. For Career Day, his mother wrote "DVM" on a white button-down shirt. Family and teachers reinforced the idea, and soon, every interaction with an animal felt like a step toward that future. After earning his degree, his mother framed that same shirt as a graduation gift, a fulfillment of his childhood dream.
At five years old, Carlo declared he wanted to be a veterinarian. For Career Day, his mother wrote "DVM" on a white button-down shirt. Family and teachers reinforced the idea, and soon, every interaction with an animal felt like a step toward that future. After earning his degree, his mother framed that same shirt as a graduation gift, a fulfillment of his childhood dream.
The 4th of July Rule
The 4th of July Rule
The 4th of July Rule
1990
As a child, Carlo recognized the importance of being intentional with his actions, and identifying barriers to completing a plan. He devised the "Fourth of July Rule" where if he did not complete his summer break goals by the 4th, whether it be building a fort or beating a game, then it would not get done for the remainder of the summer. This guiding principle of intentionality became the foundational deadline of his life, and future business career.
As a child, Carlo recognized the importance of being intentional with his actions, and identifying barriers to completing a plan. He devised the "Fourth of July Rule" where if he did not complete his summer break goals by the 4th, whether it be building a fort or beating a game, then it would not get done for the remainder of the summer. This guiding principle of intentionality became the foundational deadline of his life, and future business career.
As a child, Carlo recognized the importance of being intentional with his actions, and identifying barriers to completing a plan. He devised the "Fourth of July Rule" where if he did not complete his summer break goals by the 4th, whether it be building a fort or beating a game, then it would not get done for the remainder of the summer. This guiding principle of intentionality became the foundational deadline of his life, and future business career.
Life’s Three Stages
Life’s Three Stages
Life’s Three Stages
1994
At 12, Carlo's paternal grandfather introduced him to Learning, Earning, and Yearning—a philosophy of education, career, and enjoying life’s rewards. This ancestorial advice lead Carlo down a path to fast-track his education, finish vet school at 23, and plan for early retirement to fully embrace his "yearning" phase.
At 12, Carlo's paternal grandfather introduced him to Learning, Earning, and Yearning—a philosophy of education, career, and enjoying life’s rewards. This ancestorial advice lead Carlo down a path to fast-track his education, finish vet school at 23, and plan for early retirement to fully embrace his "yearning" phase.
At 12, Carlo's paternal grandfather introduced him to Learning, Earning, and Yearning—a philosophy of education, career, and enjoying life’s rewards. This ancestorial advice lead Carlo down a path to fast-track his education, finish vet school at 23, and plan for early retirement to fully embrace his "yearning" phase.
First job
First job
First job
1996
At 14, Carlo started as a dishwasher at a country club, where he learned efficiency, teamwork, and structured processes. Watching how a kitchen functioned reinforced the idea that process drives success. Carlo witnessed what he called "a clean plate to clean plate process." Learning how integrated systems, supply chains, and labor were all involved to make them dirty in their own unique way, but in the end would impact the customer experience.
At 14, Carlo started as a dishwasher at a country club, where he learned efficiency, teamwork, and structured processes. Watching how a kitchen functioned reinforced the idea that process drives success. Carlo witnessed what he called "a clean plate to clean plate process." Learning how integrated systems, supply chains, and labor were all involved to make them dirty in their own unique way, but in the end would impact the customer experience.
At 14, Carlo started as a dishwasher at a country club, where he learned efficiency, teamwork, and structured processes. Watching how a kitchen functioned reinforced the idea that process drives success. Carlo witnessed what he called "a clean plate to clean plate process." Learning how integrated systems, supply chains, and labor were all involved to make them dirty in their own unique way, but in the end would impact the customer experience.
The Integrity Test
The Integrity Test
The Integrity Test
1998
At 16, Carlo was caught helping classmates on a test. When caught, he remembered his father’s words: "You can be anything in this world, but don't be a liar". In the face of peer pressure, after admitting the truth to the professor, Carlo was granted a re-test which ironically improved his final score. The lesson? Integrity outweighs short-term gains.
At 16, Carlo was caught helping classmates on a test. When caught, he remembered his father’s words: "You can be anything in this world, but don't be a liar". In the face of peer pressure, after admitting the truth to the professor, Carlo was granted a re-test which ironically improved his final score. The lesson? Integrity outweighs short-term gains.
At 16, Carlo was caught helping classmates on a test. When caught, he remembered his father’s words: "You can be anything in this world, but don't be a liar". In the face of peer pressure, after admitting the truth to the professor, Carlo was granted a re-test which ironically improved his final score. The lesson? Integrity outweighs short-term gains.
Mercati Di Traian
Mercati Di Traian
Mercati Di Traian
1999
At 17, Carlo won a National Italian-American Foundation scholarship to Italy. A key moment came when he learned of an ancient ruin named Mercati di Traiano, or Trajan's market. Once an ancient shopping mall, Carlo reoriented his view on business and legacy. It reinforced the idea that industries evolve even when they appear static. He came to realize that it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the success of those who come after us.
At 17, Carlo won a National Italian-American Foundation scholarship to Italy. A key moment came when he learned of an ancient ruin named Mercati di Traiano, or Trajan's market. Once an ancient shopping mall, Carlo reoriented his view on business and legacy. It reinforced the idea that industries evolve even when they appear static. He came to realize that it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the success of those who come after us.
At 17, Carlo won a National Italian-American Foundation scholarship to Italy. A key moment came when he learned of an ancient ruin named Mercati di Traiano, or Trajan's market. Once an ancient shopping mall, Carlo reoriented his view on business and legacy. It reinforced the idea that industries evolve even when they appear static. He came to realize that it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the success of those who come after us.
Class of 2000
Class of 2000
Class of 2000
2000
As part of the "Class of 2000," Carlo grew up hearing they were responsible for changing the world. While many classmates were uncertain about their paths, Carlo was laser-focused on making an impactful contribution to the veterinary industry, ready to push boundaries and challenge norms.
As part of the "Class of 2000," Carlo grew up hearing they were responsible for changing the world. While many classmates were uncertain about their paths, Carlo was laser-focused on making an impactful contribution to the veterinary industry, ready to push boundaries and challenge norms.
As part of the "Class of 2000," Carlo grew up hearing they were responsible for changing the world. While many classmates were uncertain about their paths, Carlo was laser-focused on making an impactful contribution to the veterinary industry, ready to push boundaries and challenge norms.
Vet School at 19
Vet School at 19
Vet School at 19
2001
At 19, Carlo became a "two-year wonder," completing vet school prerequisites in half the time. This milestone reinforced his belief that systems-including education and business - can be optimized by focusing on a desired outcome.
At 19, Carlo became a "two-year wonder," completing vet school prerequisites in half the time. This milestone reinforced his belief that systems-including education and business - can be optimized by focusing on a desired outcome.
At 19, Carlo became a "two-year wonder," completing vet school prerequisites in half the time. This milestone reinforced his belief that systems-including education and business - can be optimized by focusing on a desired outcome.
Burnout Begins
Burnout Begins
Burnout Begins
2002
Carlo entered vet school excited but was quickly exposed to divisiveness, abandonment, and lack of systemic support. This experience planted the seed for his future mission to create a more sustainable environment for veterinary professionals.
Carlo entered vet school excited but was quickly exposed to divisiveness, abandonment, and lack of systemic support. This experience planted the seed for his future mission to create a more sustainable environment for veterinary professionals.
Carlo entered vet school excited but was quickly exposed to divisiveness, abandonment, and lack of systemic support. This experience planted the seed for his future mission to create a more sustainable environment for veterinary professionals.
Loss & Isolation
Loss & Isolation
Loss & Isolation
2003
Three months into vet school, Carlo’s maternal grandparents passed away, forcing him to navigate intense grief while managing academic pressure. He came to realize that life should not be defined by possessions rather we must accept that the only thing that stays the same is that everything changes--the foundation of perpetual growth.
Three months into vet school, Carlo’s maternal grandparents passed away, forcing him to navigate intense grief while managing academic pressure. He came to realize that life should not be defined by possessions rather we must accept that the only thing that stays the same is that everything changes--the foundation of perpetual growth.
Three months into vet school, Carlo’s maternal grandparents passed away, forcing him to navigate intense grief while managing academic pressure. He came to realize that life should not be defined by possessions rather we must accept that the only thing that stays the same is that everything changes--the foundation of perpetual growth.
Left in the Hallway
Left in the Hallway
Left in the Hallway
2005
Carlo's first experience in clinical rotations as a veterinary student. Startled, he was shown complete abandonment by the university, when a clinician singled him out because of his gleeful and cavalier personality. This experience reinforced that the veterinary industry required systemic change but that change must start on the individual level. Carlo decided "if you can't change the game, change the player as they go through the game
Carlo's first experience in clinical rotations as a veterinary student. Startled, he was shown complete abandonment by the university, when a clinician singled him out because of his gleeful and cavalier personality. This experience reinforced that the veterinary industry required systemic change but that change must start on the individual level. Carlo decided "if you can't change the game, change the player as they go through the game
Carlo's first experience in clinical rotations as a veterinary student. Startled, he was shown complete abandonment by the university, when a clinician singled him out because of his gleeful and cavalier personality. This experience reinforced that the veterinary industry required systemic change but that change must start on the individual level. Carlo decided "if you can't change the game, change the player as they go through the game
Reality Hits
Reality Hits
Reality Hits
2006
Graduating at 23, Carlo entered a clinic riddled with inefficiencies—poor management, mismanaged inventory, and high burnout. Seeing these flaws firsthand, he became determined to build a better, more efficient veterinary workplace.
Graduating at 23, Carlo entered a clinic riddled with inefficiencies—poor management, mismanaged inventory, and high burnout. Seeing these flaws firsthand, he became determined to build a better, more efficient veterinary workplace.
Graduating at 23, Carlo entered a clinic riddled with inefficiencies—poor management, mismanaged inventory, and high burnout. Seeing these flaws firsthand, he became determined to build a better, more efficient veterinary workplace.
Solo Coverage
Solo Coverage
Solo Coverage
2008
At 26, Carlo got married and moved to North Central Wisconsin, and assumed the responsibility of after-hours and emergency care for an entire region. The experience honed his problem-solving skills but also revealed deep flaws in the industry—pushing him toward sustainable workflows and efficiency of process.
At 26, Carlo got married and moved to North Central Wisconsin, and assumed the responsibility of after-hours and emergency care for an entire region. The experience honed his problem-solving skills but also revealed deep flaws in the industry—pushing him toward sustainable workflows and efficiency of process.
At 26, Carlo got married and moved to North Central Wisconsin, and assumed the responsibility of after-hours and emergency care for an entire region. The experience honed his problem-solving skills but also revealed deep flaws in the industry—pushing him toward sustainable workflows and efficiency of process.
Carlo becomes a dad
Carlo becomes a dad
Carlo becomes a dad
2012
Like most young parents, reevaluating one's path often comes with the new addition to the family. Carlo begins to revisit his intentionality by creating a vision for his family's future.
Like most young parents, reevaluating one's path often comes with the new addition to the family. Carlo begins to revisit his intentionality by creating a vision for his family's future.
Like most young parents, reevaluating one's path often comes with the new addition to the family. Carlo begins to revisit his intentionality by creating a vision for his family's future.
The Night Everything Changed
The Night Everything Changed
The Night Everything Changed
2013
By 2013, when a critically traumatized dog needed emergency surgery, Carlo was forced to face the challenge alone. The moment solidified his suspicions that the system wasn't just broken--it was built to leave veterinary professionals overworked and abandoned. Carlo decided it was time to burn the system down by embracing the abandonment of status quo.
By 2013, when a critically traumatized dog needed emergency surgery, Carlo was forced to face the challenge alone. The moment solidified his suspicions that the system wasn't just broken--it was built to leave veterinary professionals overworked and abandoned. Carlo decided it was time to burn the system down by embracing the abandonment of status quo.
By 2013, when a critically traumatized dog needed emergency surgery, Carlo was forced to face the challenge alone. The moment solidified his suspicions that the system wasn't just broken--it was built to leave veterinary professionals overworked and abandoned. Carlo decided it was time to burn the system down by embracing the abandonment of status quo.
Bought PAW Health
Bought PAW Health
Bought PAW Health
2015
At 33, Carlo became both a business owner and welcomed another new baby. He purchased a struggling emergency clinic while his wife was pregnant, welcoming their son a month before. Juggling business and family, he built a structured, sustainable model focused on efficiency and support.
At 33, Carlo became both a business owner and welcomed another new baby. He purchased a struggling emergency clinic while his wife was pregnant, welcoming their son a month before. Juggling business and family, he built a structured, sustainable model focused on efficiency and support.
At 33, Carlo became both a business owner and welcomed another new baby. He purchased a struggling emergency clinic while his wife was pregnant, welcoming their son a month before. Juggling business and family, he built a structured, sustainable model focused on efficiency and support.
Mentorship Begins
Mentorship Begins
Mentorship Begins
2016
Carlo financed a 5 year mentorship initiative at Michigan State University to recruit and train future veterinary leaders. The success of this system lead to Carlo to form the PAW HEALTH FOUNDATION, a nonprofit organization focused on providing direct financial support to veterinary professionals interested in ELM--entrepreneurship, leadership and mentorship.
Carlo financed a 5 year mentorship initiative at Michigan State University to recruit and train future veterinary leaders. The success of this system lead to Carlo to form the PAW HEALTH FOUNDATION, a nonprofit organization focused on providing direct financial support to veterinary professionals interested in ELM--entrepreneurship, leadership and mentorship.
Carlo financed a 5 year mentorship initiative at Michigan State University to recruit and train future veterinary leaders. The success of this system lead to Carlo to form the PAW HEALTH FOUNDATION, a nonprofit organization focused on providing direct financial support to veterinary professionals interested in ELM--entrepreneurship, leadership and mentorship.
Industry on a Napkin
Industry on a Napkin
Industry on a Napkin
2016
One night, Carlo sketched out the industry’s biggest failures—burnout, financial instability, and inefficiency. This became the blueprint for a new business model - "The only goal is to create a system of perpetual growth for both the individual and the industry.
One night, Carlo sketched out the industry’s biggest failures—burnout, financial instability, and inefficiency. This became the blueprint for a new business model - "The only goal is to create a system of perpetual growth for both the individual and the industry.
One night, Carlo sketched out the industry’s biggest failures—burnout, financial instability, and inefficiency. This became the blueprint for a new business model - "The only goal is to create a system of perpetual growth for both the individual and the industry.
EOS & Structure
EOS & Structure
EOS & Structure
2017
Carlo hired a strategic planning firm and implemented EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to refine operations. While EOS taught the "leadership team" how to have deliberate meetings, he quickly saw that traditional frameworks do not support real-world application to the employee-level. Carlo knew creating a system for bidirectional collaboration was the future of all business.
Carlo hired a strategic planning firm and implemented EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to refine operations. While EOS taught the "leadership team" how to have deliberate meetings, he quickly saw that traditional frameworks do not support real-world application to the employee-level. Carlo knew creating a system for bidirectional collaboration was the future of all business.
Carlo hired a strategic planning firm and implemented EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to refine operations. While EOS taught the "leadership team" how to have deliberate meetings, he quickly saw that traditional frameworks do not support real-world application to the employee-level. Carlo knew creating a system for bidirectional collaboration was the future of all business.
Full-Time Strategist
Full-Time Strategist
Full-Time Strategist
2018
His hired business strategist became so convinced of PAW Health’s potential that he joined full-time. In a pivotal moment, he asked: "Is this as big as I think it is?" Carlo knew then—this was about more than one clinic; it was about transforming an industry.
His hired business strategist became so convinced of PAW Health’s potential that he joined full-time. In a pivotal moment, he asked: "Is this as big as I think it is?" Carlo knew then—this was about more than one clinic; it was about transforming an industry.
His hired business strategist became so convinced of PAW Health’s potential that he joined full-time. In a pivotal moment, he asked: "Is this as big as I think it is?" Carlo knew then—this was about more than one clinic; it was about transforming an industry.
After Action Review
After Action Review
After Action Review
2018
In 2018, while seeking a system of bidirectional communication, Carlo introduced After Action Review (AAR), a military debrief method, fostering blameless problem-solving. In the first session, a planned discussion on seven issues uncovered over 40 opportunities for individual and systemic growth, proving that bidirectional communication with staff and administration was instrumental to the growth of both parties.
In 2018, while seeking a system of bidirectional communication, Carlo introduced After Action Review (AAR), a military debrief method, fostering blameless problem-solving. In the first session, a planned discussion on seven issues uncovered over 40 opportunities for individual and systemic growth, proving that bidirectional communication with staff and administration was instrumental to the growth of both parties.
In 2018, while seeking a system of bidirectional communication, Carlo introduced After Action Review (AAR), a military debrief method, fostering blameless problem-solving. In the first session, a planned discussion on seven issues uncovered over 40 opportunities for individual and systemic growth, proving that bidirectional communication with staff and administration was instrumental to the growth of both parties.
The 5:15 Report
The 5:15 Report
The 5:15 Report
2019
In 2019, in an attempt to engage a staff-level collaborative tool, Carlo launched the 5:15 report. While weekly check-ins proved difficult in a high-pressure environment, the system laid the foundation for structured feedback loops. This reinforced the need to evolve the communication loops to function more efficiently in high stakes and fast paced environments.
In 2019, in an attempt to engage a staff-level collaborative tool, Carlo launched the 5:15 report. While weekly check-ins proved difficult in a high-pressure environment, the system laid the foundation for structured feedback loops. This reinforced the need to evolve the communication loops to function more efficiently in high stakes and fast paced environments.
In 2019, in an attempt to engage a staff-level collaborative tool, Carlo launched the 5:15 report. While weekly check-ins proved difficult in a high-pressure environment, the system laid the foundation for structured feedback loops. This reinforced the need to evolve the communication loops to function more efficiently in high stakes and fast paced environments.
First True Mentee
First True Mentee
First True Mentee
2019
In 2019, Carlo met Karanveer when, "a teacher was looking for a student and a student was looking for a teacher." The bright young talent from India needed guidance in the States, the same time Carlo was ready to accept the challenge of a life-long learner. An embodiment of helping those who come after us.
In 2019, Carlo met Karanveer when, "a teacher was looking for a student and a student was looking for a teacher." The bright young talent from India needed guidance in the States, the same time Carlo was ready to accept the challenge of a life-long learner. An embodiment of helping those who come after us.
In 2019, Carlo met Karanveer when, "a teacher was looking for a student and a student was looking for a teacher." The bright young talent from India needed guidance in the States, the same time Carlo was ready to accept the challenge of a life-long learner. An embodiment of helping those who come after us.
New Clinic, New Baby
New Clinic, New Baby
New Clinic, New Baby
2020
By 2020, PAW Health had outgrown its original space, and expansion was necessary--then expanding from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet.. Carlo secured financing to expand PAW Health from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet. At the same time, his youngest daughter was born. With a growing family and business, PAW health rapidly grew from serving 5,000 to over 17,000 patients annually.
By 2020, PAW Health had outgrown its original space, and expansion was necessary--then expanding from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet.. Carlo secured financing to expand PAW Health from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet. At the same time, his youngest daughter was born. With a growing family and business, PAW health rapidly grew from serving 5,000 to over 17,000 patients annually.
By 2020, PAW Health had outgrown its original space, and expansion was necessary--then expanding from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet.. Carlo secured financing to expand PAW Health from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet. At the same time, his youngest daughter was born. With a growing family and business, PAW health rapidly grew from serving 5,000 to over 17,000 patients annually.
Training Leaders
Training Leaders
Training Leaders
2020
In 2020, Carlo hired three new graduates from Michigan State University, proving that early mentorship creates stronger veterinarians. It reinforced his belief that training future leaders before they enter the industry is key to lasting change. Without the success of his first student, Karanveer, Carlo would have abandoned recruitment efforts.
In 2020, Carlo hired three new graduates from Michigan State University, proving that early mentorship creates stronger veterinarians. It reinforced his belief that training future leaders before they enter the industry is key to lasting change. Without the success of his first student, Karanveer, Carlo would have abandoned recruitment efforts.
In 2020, Carlo hired three new graduates from Michigan State University, proving that early mentorship creates stronger veterinarians. It reinforced his belief that training future leaders before they enter the industry is key to lasting change. Without the success of his first student, Karanveer, Carlo would have abandoned recruitment efforts.
COVID-Proofed
COVID-Proofed
COVID-Proofed
2020
While other clinics turned away patients during the pandemic, PAW Health remained fully operational. Carlo's uniquely developed triage model made curbside service easy to implement. With his wife's doctorate in veterinary medicine and masters in public health, she was able to implement CDC protocols while treating more patients than ever. While the industry struggled, PAW Health scaled up operations like never before.
While other clinics turned away patients during the pandemic, PAW Health remained fully operational. Carlo's uniquely developed triage model made curbside service easy to implement. With his wife's doctorate in veterinary medicine and masters in public health, she was able to implement CDC protocols while treating more patients than ever. While the industry struggled, PAW Health scaled up operations like never before.
While other clinics turned away patients during the pandemic, PAW Health remained fully operational. Carlo's uniquely developed triage model made curbside service easy to implement. With his wife's doctorate in veterinary medicine and masters in public health, she was able to implement CDC protocols while treating more patients than ever. While the industry struggled, PAW Health scaled up operations like never before.
Kona’s Case
Kona’s Case
Kona’s Case
2020
A hit-by-car case had pushed Carlo's system and team to the limit, with an all-hands-on-deck order for two days straight. With severe internal injuries, and no safe way to transport the patient to neighboring referral centers, the team worked tirelessly to save the patient. Kona's survival foundationally established Carlo's drive for bidirectional collaboration in an environment of actual life or death. With all systems running hot, it provided the pathway to solidify the ethos which birthed The Collaborative Process.
A hit-by-car case had pushed Carlo's system and team to the limit, with an all-hands-on-deck order for two days straight. With severe internal injuries, and no safe way to transport the patient to neighboring referral centers, the team worked tirelessly to save the patient. Kona's survival foundationally established Carlo's drive for bidirectional collaboration in an environment of actual life or death. With all systems running hot, it provided the pathway to solidify the ethos which birthed The Collaborative Process.
A hit-by-car case had pushed Carlo's system and team to the limit, with an all-hands-on-deck order for two days straight. With severe internal injuries, and no safe way to transport the patient to neighboring referral centers, the team worked tirelessly to save the patient. Kona's survival foundationally established Carlo's drive for bidirectional collaboration in an environment of actual life or death. With all systems running hot, it provided the pathway to solidify the ethos which birthed The Collaborative Process.
Mask Policy Stand
Mask Policy Stand
Mask Policy Stand
2021
Nearing 75 employees, the greatest challenge of peak pandemic was protecting staff against the public's hostility. When a client berated an employee, Carlo stepped in, openly chastising them for behavior in front of other clients, removed them from the building, and had law enforcement finish the job. His team later said, "We’ve never worked somewhere leadership truly stood up for us."
Nearing 75 employees, the greatest challenge of peak pandemic was protecting staff against the public's hostility. When a client berated an employee, Carlo stepped in, openly chastising them for behavior in front of other clients, removed them from the building, and had law enforcement finish the job. His team later said, "We’ve never worked somewhere leadership truly stood up for us."
Nearing 75 employees, the greatest challenge of peak pandemic was protecting staff against the public's hostility. When a client berated an employee, Carlo stepped in, openly chastising them for behavior in front of other clients, removed them from the building, and had law enforcement finish the job. His team later said, "We’ve never worked somewhere leadership truly stood up for us."
TCP Becomes the Standard
TCP Becomes the Standard
TCP Becomes the Standard
2022
After years of trying failed strategic models and refining an internal process, Carlo implemented the first crude structure of The Collaborative Process. By the end of 2022, TCP began turning the tides on a staff overrun by the plights of the pandemic by aiming the team towards collaborative leadership and self-betterment.
After years of trying failed strategic models and refining an internal process, Carlo implemented the first crude structure of The Collaborative Process. By the end of 2022, TCP began turning the tides on a staff overrun by the plights of the pandemic by aiming the team towards collaborative leadership and self-betterment.
After years of trying failed strategic models and refining an internal process, Carlo implemented the first crude structure of The Collaborative Process. By the end of 2022, TCP began turning the tides on a staff overrun by the plights of the pandemic by aiming the team towards collaborative leadership and self-betterment.
Strategic Partnership
Strategic Partnership
Strategic Partnership
2024
Recognizing a need to focus full time on collaboration within the buisness, Carlo vetted 39 corporate partners before choosing Alliance Animal Health which agreed to handle only administrative tasks while keeping PAW Health’s philosophy and medical decisions intact. This partnership allowed Carlo to focus entirely on front-end operations and scaling TCP as a sustainable model for the industry.
Recognizing a need to focus full time on collaboration within the buisness, Carlo vetted 39 corporate partners before choosing Alliance Animal Health which agreed to handle only administrative tasks while keeping PAW Health’s philosophy and medical decisions intact. This partnership allowed Carlo to focus entirely on front-end operations and scaling TCP as a sustainable model for the industry.
Recognizing a need to focus full time on collaboration within the buisness, Carlo vetted 39 corporate partners before choosing Alliance Animal Health which agreed to handle only administrative tasks while keeping PAW Health’s philosophy and medical decisions intact. This partnership allowed Carlo to focus entirely on front-end operations and scaling TCP as a sustainable model for the industry.
The Burn-Off
The Burn-Off
The Burn-Off
2024
Following AAH partnership, by the middle of 2024, Carlo experienced the start of his third staff-burn off since moving to the area in 2008. Some staff feared instability, but Carlo predicted it differently: "Why worry about those who leave if they were never truly committed to building sustainable service for the community? We will be better once they are out of our way.
Following AAH partnership, by the middle of 2024, Carlo experienced the start of his third staff-burn off since moving to the area in 2008. Some staff feared instability, but Carlo predicted it differently: "Why worry about those who leave if they were never truly committed to building sustainable service for the community? We will be better once they are out of our way.
Following AAH partnership, by the middle of 2024, Carlo experienced the start of his third staff-burn off since moving to the area in 2008. Some staff feared instability, but Carlo predicted it differently: "Why worry about those who leave if they were never truly committed to building sustainable service for the community? We will be better once they are out of our way.
TCP Launch
TCP Launch
TCP Launch
2025
Following the burn-off staff departures, by the start of 2025, Carlo was proved right when the remaining supported staff was more aligned with collaboration and building a future for the community. Not only was this proof to never fear loss, but the shift marked a new era for a team built on collaboration. Carlo's system was built for perpetual growth and proved itself to not only weather the storm, but establish itself as the future of business strategy. Carlo launched TCP as a stand-alone business and intellectual property.
Following the burn-off staff departures, by the start of 2025, Carlo was proved right when the remaining supported staff was more aligned with collaboration and building a future for the community. Not only was this proof to never fear loss, but the shift marked a new era for a team built on collaboration. Carlo's system was built for perpetual growth and proved itself to not only weather the storm, but establish itself as the future of business strategy. Carlo launched TCP as a stand-alone business and intellectual property.
Following the burn-off staff departures, by the start of 2025, Carlo was proved right when the remaining supported staff was more aligned with collaboration and building a future for the community. Not only was this proof to never fear loss, but the shift marked a new era for a team built on collaboration. Carlo's system was built for perpetual growth and proved itself to not only weather the storm, but establish itself as the future of business strategy. Carlo launched TCP as a stand-alone business and intellectual property.
1987

Career Day

At five years old, Carlo declared he wanted to be a veterinarian. For Career Day, his mother wrote "DVM" on a white button-down shirt. Family and teachers reinforced the idea, and soon, every interaction with an animal felt like a step toward that future. After earning his degree, his mother framed that same shirt as a graduation gift, a fulfillment of his childhood dream.

1990

The 4th of July Rule

As a child, Carlo recognized the importance of being intentional with his actions, and identifying barriers to completing a plan. He devised the "Fourth of July Rule" where if he did not complete his summer break goals by the 4th, whether it be building a fort or beating a game, then it would not get done for the remainder of the summer. This guiding principle of intentionality became the foundational deadline of his life, and future business career.

1994

Life’s Three Stages

At 12, Carlo's paternal grandfather introduced him to Learning, Earning, and Yearning—a philosophy of education, career, and enjoying life’s rewards. This ancestorial advice lead Carlo down a path to fast-track his education, finish vet school at 23, and plan for early retirement to fully embrace his "yearning" phase.

1996

First job

At 14, Carlo started as a dishwasher at a country club, where he learned efficiency, teamwork, and structured processes. Watching how a kitchen functioned reinforced the idea that process drives success. Carlo witnessed what he called "a clean plate to clean plate process." Learning how integrated systems, supply chains, and labor were all involved to make them dirty in their own unique way, but in the end would impact the customer experience.

1998

The Integrity Test

At 16, Carlo was caught helping classmates on a test. When caught, he remembered his father’s words: "You can be anything in this world, but don't be a liar". In the face of peer pressure, after admitting the truth to the professor, Carlo was granted a re-test which ironically improved his final score. The lesson? Integrity outweighs short-term gains.

1999

Mercati Di Traian

At 17, Carlo won a National Italian-American Foundation scholarship to Italy. A key moment came when he learned of an ancient ruin named Mercati di Traiano, or Trajan's market. Once an ancient shopping mall, Carlo reoriented his view on business and legacy. It reinforced the idea that industries evolve even when they appear static. He came to realize that it is our collective responsibility to contribute to the success of those who come after us.

2000

Class of 2000

As part of the "Class of 2000," Carlo grew up hearing they were responsible for changing the world. While many classmates were uncertain about their paths, Carlo was laser-focused on making an impactful contribution to the veterinary industry, ready to push boundaries and challenge norms.

2001

Vet School at 19

At 19, Carlo became a "two-year wonder," completing vet school prerequisites in half the time. This milestone reinforced his belief that systems-including education and business - can be optimized by focusing on a desired outcome.

2002

Burnout Begins

Carlo entered vet school excited but was quickly exposed to divisiveness, abandonment, and lack of systemic support. This experience planted the seed for his future mission to create a more sustainable environment for veterinary professionals.

2003

Loss & Isolation

Three months into vet school, Carlo’s maternal grandparents passed away, forcing him to navigate intense grief while managing academic pressure. He came to realize that life should not be defined by possessions rather we must accept that the only thing that stays the same is that everything changes--the foundation of perpetual growth.

2005

Left in the Hallway

Carlo's first experience in clinical rotations as a veterinary student. Startled, he was shown complete abandonment by the university, when a clinician singled him out because of his gleeful and cavalier personality. This experience reinforced that the veterinary industry required systemic change but that change must start on the individual level. Carlo decided "if you can't change the game, change the player as they go through the game

2006

Reality Hits

Graduating at 23, Carlo entered a clinic riddled with inefficiencies—poor management, mismanaged inventory, and high burnout. Seeing these flaws firsthand, he became determined to build a better, more efficient veterinary workplace.

2008

Solo Coverage

At 26, Carlo got married and moved to North Central Wisconsin, and assumed the responsibility of after-hours and emergency care for an entire region. The experience honed his problem-solving skills but also revealed deep flaws in the industry—pushing him toward sustainable workflows and efficiency of process.

2012

Carlo becomes a dad

Like most young parents, reevaluating one's path often comes with the new addition to the family. Carlo begins to revisit his intentionality by creating a vision for his family's future.

2013

The Night Everything Changed

By 2013, when a critically traumatized dog needed emergency surgery, Carlo was forced to face the challenge alone. The moment solidified his suspicions that the system wasn't just broken--it was built to leave veterinary professionals overworked and abandoned. Carlo decided it was time to burn the system down by embracing the abandonment of status quo.

2015

Bought PAW Health

At 33, Carlo became both a business owner and welcomed another new baby. He purchased a struggling emergency clinic while his wife was pregnant, welcoming their son a month before. Juggling business and family, he built a structured, sustainable model focused on efficiency and support.

2016

Mentorship Begins

Carlo financed a 5 year mentorship initiative at Michigan State University to recruit and train future veterinary leaders. The success of this system lead to Carlo to form the PAW HEALTH FOUNDATION, a nonprofit organization focused on providing direct financial support to veterinary professionals interested in ELM--entrepreneurship, leadership and mentorship.

2016

Industry on a Napkin

One night, Carlo sketched out the industry’s biggest failures—burnout, financial instability, and inefficiency. This became the blueprint for a new business model - "The only goal is to create a system of perpetual growth for both the individual and the industry.

2017

EOS & Structure

Carlo hired a strategic planning firm and implemented EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to refine operations. While EOS taught the "leadership team" how to have deliberate meetings, he quickly saw that traditional frameworks do not support real-world application to the employee-level. Carlo knew creating a system for bidirectional collaboration was the future of all business.

2018

Full-Time Strategist

His hired business strategist became so convinced of PAW Health’s potential that he joined full-time. In a pivotal moment, he asked: "Is this as big as I think it is?" Carlo knew then—this was about more than one clinic; it was about transforming an industry.

2018

After Action Review

In 2018, while seeking a system of bidirectional communication, Carlo introduced After Action Review (AAR), a military debrief method, fostering blameless problem-solving. In the first session, a planned discussion on seven issues uncovered over 40 opportunities for individual and systemic growth, proving that bidirectional communication with staff and administration was instrumental to the growth of both parties.

2019

The 5:15 Report

In 2019, in an attempt to engage a staff-level collaborative tool, Carlo launched the 5:15 report. While weekly check-ins proved difficult in a high-pressure environment, the system laid the foundation for structured feedback loops. This reinforced the need to evolve the communication loops to function more efficiently in high stakes and fast paced environments.

2019

First True Mentee

In 2019, Carlo met Karanveer when, "a teacher was looking for a student and a student was looking for a teacher." The bright young talent from India needed guidance in the States, the same time Carlo was ready to accept the challenge of a life-long learner. An embodiment of helping those who come after us.

2020

New Clinic, New Baby

By 2020, PAW Health had outgrown its original space, and expansion was necessary--then expanding from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet.. Carlo secured financing to expand PAW Health from 1,800 to 11,000 square feet. At the same time, his youngest daughter was born. With a growing family and business, PAW health rapidly grew from serving 5,000 to over 17,000 patients annually.

2020

Training Leaders

In 2020, Carlo hired three new graduates from Michigan State University, proving that early mentorship creates stronger veterinarians. It reinforced his belief that training future leaders before they enter the industry is key to lasting change. Without the success of his first student, Karanveer, Carlo would have abandoned recruitment efforts.

2020

COVID-Proofed

While other clinics turned away patients during the pandemic, PAW Health remained fully operational. Carlo's uniquely developed triage model made curbside service easy to implement. With his wife's doctorate in veterinary medicine and masters in public health, she was able to implement CDC protocols while treating more patients than ever. While the industry struggled, PAW Health scaled up operations like never before.

2020

Kona’s Case

A hit-by-car case had pushed Carlo's system and team to the limit, with an all-hands-on-deck order for two days straight. With severe internal injuries, and no safe way to transport the patient to neighboring referral centers, the team worked tirelessly to save the patient. Kona's survival foundationally established Carlo's drive for bidirectional collaboration in an environment of actual life or death. With all systems running hot, it provided the pathway to solidify the ethos which birthed The Collaborative Process.

2021

Mask Policy Stand

Nearing 75 employees, the greatest challenge of peak pandemic was protecting staff against the public's hostility. When a client berated an employee, Carlo stepped in, openly chastising them for behavior in front of other clients, removed them from the building, and had law enforcement finish the job. His team later said, "We’ve never worked somewhere leadership truly stood up for us."

2022

TCP Becomes the Standard

After years of trying failed strategic models and refining an internal process, Carlo implemented the first crude structure of The Collaborative Process. By the end of 2022, TCP began turning the tides on a staff overrun by the plights of the pandemic by aiming the team towards collaborative leadership and self-betterment.

2024

Strategic Partnership

Recognizing a need to focus full time on collaboration within the buisness, Carlo vetted 39 corporate partners before choosing Alliance Animal Health which agreed to handle only administrative tasks while keeping PAW Health’s philosophy and medical decisions intact. This partnership allowed Carlo to focus entirely on front-end operations and scaling TCP as a sustainable model for the industry.

2024

The Burn-Off

Following AAH partnership, by the middle of 2024, Carlo experienced the start of his third staff-burn off since moving to the area in 2008. Some staff feared instability, but Carlo predicted it differently: "Why worry about those who leave if they were never truly committed to building sustainable service for the community? We will be better once they are out of our way.

2025

TCP Launch

Following the burn-off staff departures, by the start of 2025, Carlo was proved right when the remaining supported staff was more aligned with collaboration and building a future for the community. Not only was this proof to never fear loss, but the shift marked a new era for a team built on collaboration. Carlo's system was built for perpetual growth and proved itself to not only weather the storm, but establish itself as the future of business strategy. Carlo launched TCP as a stand-alone business and intellectual property.

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