In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Michelle Micuda, Group Leader & Mentor at CEO Global Network and former President of Staples Professional, to explore the leadership principles that have guided her through decades of executive leadership.

Michelle shares why leadership visibility matters more than ever, how to keep teams engaged during times of uncertainty, and why balancing change with stability is one of the most important responsibilities of today's leaders. She also reflects on her transition from leading large organizations to mentoring CEOs and the leadership belief she completely changed over the course of her career.

Whether you're leading a startup or a large enterprise, this conversation offers practical insights on building trust, empowering teams, and creating cultures where people can perform at their best.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Michael Polo, President of Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd., to discuss the leadership principles that have stood the test of time.

Michael shares why relationships - not products - have been Hall's greatest competitive advantage, how customer trust helped the company thrive through decades of technological change, and what shifted when he moved from Vice President to President. He also explains why future CEOs will need to become exceptional stewards who build teams that learn, adapt, and innovate faster than ever before.

If you're a CEO or business leader looking to build a company that lasts, this conversation is full of practical leadership wisdom you can apply immediately.

Marcelo discusses the importance of technology literacy for leaders, why change management is critical during digital transformation, and how organizations can approach AI adoption strategically. He also shares lessons learned from leading through high-pressure situations and explains why continuous learning and teaching are essential habits for long-term leadership success.

Whether you're leading a growing company, navigating digital transformation, or exploring AI opportunities, this conversation offers valuable advice for today's business leaders.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Matthew Crimi, President & CEO of Canada Welding Supply, to discuss the leadership lessons he's learned while growing one of Canada's leading welding and industrial supply companies.

Matt shares how his background in the skilled trades shaped his leadership style, why empowering people is essential for growth, and how leaders can balance technology and AI adoption without losing the human connection that customers value most. He also explains the importance of finding the right customers, building a strong culture, and learning to work on the business instead of in it.

Whether you're leading a trades business, scaling an e-commerce company, or building a high-performance team, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, growth, and long-term success.

In this episode of CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Blair Hyslop, Co-CEO and Co-Owner of Mrs. Dunster’s Bakery, to unpack the realities of growth, leadership, and building a resilient company in today’s environment.

Blair shares hard-earned lessons from growing a family business at 20%+ annually, including the difficult decisions leaders face as companies scale, why great people don’t always scale with the business, and what actually builds a strong brand in a crowded market.

The conversation also dives into one of the most misunderstood issues in Canada today: labour and immigration. Blair offers a clear, on-the-ground perspective on why Atlantic Canada doesn’t have a labour surplus and what leaders across the country are getting wrong.

From leadership discipline to entrepreneurship lessons he wishes he learned earlier, this is a practical, no-fluff conversation for CEOs and executives navigating growth, complexity, and change.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Kevin Brown to unpack the truth about workplace safety, leadership accountability, and why smart organizations turn safety into a competitive advantage.

Kevin shares lessons from investigating hundreds of serious incidents, explains why compliance alone is not enough, and outlines how CEOs can build safer, stronger, more profitable companies.

They also discuss why Canada needs a unified national safety framework and what that could unlock for businesses and workers alike.

If you lead people, run operations, or care about building a high-performing culture, this episode is packed with practical insight.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Tom Gunter, Group Leader and Mentor, CEO Global Network to unpack the leadership lessons that only come from decades in the field.

From leading iconic brands like PepsiCo, Molson Coors, and ConAgra… to mentoring today’s top CEOs, Tom shares the real-world insights most leaders only learn the hard way.

They dive into:

• Why giving constructive feedback is one of the hardest skills to master
• The hidden reason some brands thrive for decades while others fade
• A simple but powerful “relationship bank account” framework every leader should use
• The accountability gap that holds even experienced leaders back
• And the career decision that changed everything for Tom

This is not theory. It is practical leadership advice you can apply immediately.

If you are leading a team, scaling a company, or trying to become a better operator, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Jennifer Urosevic, President & CEO of Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, to explore what it takes to lead with empathy, resilience, and impact in nonprofit healthcare.

Jennifer shares how a deeply personal connection to vision loss has shaped her 20+ year career, how frontline experience influences executive decision-making, and why investing in workplace culture directly translates into better client outcomes. The conversation also dives into accessibility gaps that still exist today, lessons from client-centered care, and practical ways leaders can protect themselves from burnout while staying connected to purpose.

This is a powerful discussion for CEOs and senior leaders who believe leadership is not just about results - but about service, culture, and meaning.

Milton also opens up about his philanthropic leadership, how he brings business practices to his nonprofit work, and what he would do differently if launching his business in 2025. Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring entrepreneur, or hospitality professional, this episode offers practical insights on service, leadership, and long-term success.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, we dive into:

• The pivotal moment that inspired Devin’s shift to sustainability
• Using behavioral science to influence organizational change
• Common misconceptions about ESG that hold leaders back
• How stakeholder engagement can accelerate ESG goals

Whether you’re a CEO, executive, or aspiring leader, Devin’s insights on purpose-driven leadership and environmental impact are essential listening.

Fotini shares her unconventional tips for negotiating effectively, how introverts can leverage their strengths, and real-world examples from industries ranging from luxury retail to drug regulation. She also explores the universal principles of negotiation across cultures, the mindset shifts leaders need to advocate for themselves, and how turning conflict into connection can transform outcomes.

Whether you’re negotiating a contract, a promotion, or everyday challenges, this conversation will give you actionable strategies to communicate with confidence and influence outcomes that drive real results.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Daniel Guest, Visionary at Guest Plumbing & HVAC and President of Maplewood Capital, to unpack what it really takes to scale a traditional trades business, attract young talent, and lead with energy, purpose, and emotional intelligence.

Daniel shares why a little “ignorance” can be a superpower for entrepreneurs, how community impact strengthens company culture, and why skill - not passion - is the real starting point for meaningful careers. They also explore leadership lessons from Daniel’s own podcast, the importance of protecting your energy, and how self-awareness separates great leaders from the rest.

This is a practical, honest conversation for CEOs, founders, and leaders who want to grow fast - without losing themselves or their values.

Marc shares his journey from discovering the stock market as a 16-year-old to becoming a trusted advisor for CEOs and executives. He dives into key lessons from his career, including managing expenses, avoiding lifestyle creep, and creating financial plans that turn uncertainty into confidence.

Listeners will learn practical strategies for long-term financial success, including how to calculate your “number,” plan for passive income, and maintain focus on what truly matters. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.

Peter shares candid lessons learned from decades of leadership - shaped by his father’s old-school work ethic, the complexities of navigating succession, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. He opens up about difficult decisions, how he balances his deep love for the trade with high-level leadership, and the systems that keep his remote team aligned across thousands of service calls.

From maintaining high standards in a fast-moving, customer-centric industry to navigating generational transitions with clarity and courage, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom for CEOs, executives, and family-business leaders alike.

Whether you're leading a growing company, mentoring the next generation, or trying to stay out of the day-to-day to focus on strategy - this episode will resonate deeply.

Whether you’re a CEO, executive, or leader seeking practical lessons on leadership, culture, and innovation, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways from one of Canada’s most respected business leaders.

Listeners will learn how to stay ahead of evolving tax laws, create actionable financial strategies, and develop trust with clients that lasts. If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur looking to navigate the financial side of your business with confidence, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world wisdom.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The most critical leadership lesson for entrepreneurs
• How to build trust with clients navigating complex financial decisions
• Common tax mistakes businesses should avoid
• Shifts in tax strategy for small and medium businesses post-COVID
• Personal routines to stay sharp and future-focused

Whether you’re scaling your business, building your advisory team, or looking to improve as a leader, Vinay’s insights provide practical strategies for success.

Listen now to gain real-world advice from a seasoned CEO and strategic advisor.

Listeners will gain actionable insights on building collaborative company cultures, managing high-tech and heavy industry simultaneously, and fostering the next generation of women leaders in technology.

Jon shares his insights on building trust, driving accountability, and maintaining team morale when the pressure is on. From creating a culture of ownership to the importance of truly listening as a leader, this conversation is packed with real-world wisdom for CEOs and executives looking to elevate their leadership game.

If you’ve ever wondered how elite teamwork and performance mindsets translate into business success - this episode is a masterclass in practical leadership.

Jeff shares hard-won insights from his time leading iconic brands like High Liner Foods, McCain, Pepsi, and Quaker Oats. From his philosophy on “unlocking the special in people” to navigating uncertainty, building clarity, and developing A-player talent, Jeff offers a candid look at the habits that separate good CEOs from great ones.

If you’re leading through complexity, growing a team, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself as a leader - this episode is packed with lessons you can apply right away.

Tune in to discover how servant leadership, empathy, and innovation with conscience can transform your organization.

Listen in as Zain also dives into the role of evidence-based therapy techniques in professional coaching and how AI can support - but never replace - the human element in mental wellness. A thought-provoking conversation for leaders navigating the future of AI and human-centered leadership.

Hartley shares his insights on:

• Building a culture that attracts and retains top engineering talent
• The modularization innovations reshaping the energy industry
• Balancing technical expertise with executive leadership
• How battery storage and synthetic inertia are transforming power systems globally
• The importance of empathy and personal development for engineers aspiring to lead

From fostering strong company values to navigating the technical challenges of a rapidly evolving industry, this conversation offers valuable lessons for any CEO or executive leading in times of change.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• How responsible leadership shapes the future of international education
• The strategies Hanson Canada uses to change students’ life trajectories
• Balancing innovation and tradition in educational institutions
• Measuring success beyond financial results

Whether you’re a leader, educator, or entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with lessons on leadership, impact, and community building.

From “less is more” in digital marketing to choosing the right clients and fostering a collaborative culture, this episode is packed with practical advice for CEOs and business leaders aiming to grow smarter, not just bigger.

From overcoming supply chain challenges to maintaining a customer-first approach that drives profitability, Anindo discusses the importance of building a high-performing, experienced team and fostering an inclusive, accountable workplace culture. He also dives into the future of e-commerce, including AI-driven search and strategic partnerships that are transforming the industry.

Whether you’re a business leader, CEO, or entrepreneur, this episode offers practical strategies and real-world insights on leadership, innovation, and growth in a competitive marketplace.

Whether you’re leading a large organization or managing a small team, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom to help you lead more effectively and create a culture that inspires innovation and accountability.

Jennifer shares why CEOs need to treat their personal finances with the same intentionality as their business strategy - starting with a clear vision, a strong plan, and an “A-player” team that can execute. She also explains how to align investments with business goals, avoid common wealth management pitfalls, and ensure continuity through trusted advisory teams.

Whether you’re leading a growing company or preparing for succession, Jennifer’s insights on wealth planning, tax strategy, and long-term financial vision will help you think more holistically about your financial future.

You’ll hear Darren discuss:

• The most pivotal moment in his leadership journey.
• How to help CEOs get unstuck during challenging times.
• The importance of consistency and reliability in leadership.
• What effective scaling and sustainable growth really look like.
• How his transition from executive to mentor reshaped his view of leadership.

This is a grounded, insight-rich conversation for leaders striving to elevate both their business performance and leadership impact.

Tune in for invaluable advice on leadership, change management, and navigating the challenges of the C-suite.

Umar shares his journey from pharmaceuticals and investment banking to founding RegenaLife, a company dedicated to early detection and prevention of chronic disease. Together, they discuss:

• The shift from “sick care” to proactive health care
• How partnerships enable RegenaLife to scale its impact
• The role of AI in accelerating diagnostics and care delivery
• Lessons from Umar’s investment banking and consulting career
• The biggest disruptors shaping longevity medicine in the next five years

If you’re curious about the future of healthcare and how technology is giving us the tools to live longer, healthier lives, this conversation is not to be missed.

Darrell shares how his journey began in 2008, the evolution of Candybox Marketing, and his mission to make digital marketing actually work for businesses. He dives into how AI is transforming consumer behavior, why AI-driven searches are 8–12x more effective than traditional ones, and how prediction is reshaping marketing strategies.

From surprising questions on stage to his take on the best platforms for B2B and B2C growth, Darrell offers practical insights every CEO and executive can apply. Whether you’re scaling a business, rethinking digital strategy, or navigating the future of AI, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.

She covers:

• The overlooked factor in building great sales teams
• How to balance accountability and motivation
• The biggest mistakes companies make when scaling sales
• Gaining buy-in for change from resistant teams
• The role of branding and marketing in sales success
• The toughest client question she’s ever faced

Whether you’re a CEO, sales leader, or entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with real-world advice to drive growth and results.

Karim shares his journey from launching a high-profile model agency in 2008 to pioneering influencer representation in Canada, building an international roster that spans fashion, sports, entertainment, and eSports. He discusses the challenges of educating brands about influencer marketing in its early days, how he maintains company culture across multiple offices, and the lessons learned from mentoring startups and fellow entrepreneurs.

Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or simply fascinated by the intersection of culture, talent, and business, this conversation offers valuable insights on growth, adaptability, and building a lasting legacy.

From moving beyond “black and white” engineering thinking to navigating crises with persistence and innovation, Vince offers candid insights into leadership, decision-making, and continuous learning. He also reflects on the importance of relationships, networking, and what he’d tell his younger self starting out in his career.

Whether you’re an engineer aspiring to leadership, a CEO facing uncertainty, or a leader committed to lifelong learning, Vince’s reflections are filled with valuable lessons you can apply today.

Daniel shares insights on why Canada leads in AI research but struggles to commercialize it, the missing “middle layer” of applied research, and how AXL is bridging that gap. He discusses misconceptions about AI, what it truly means to unlock human potential, and how AI can empower - not replace - people.

They also dive into Daniel’s journey as a professor, researcher at Meta, and entrepreneur, as well as his views on policy changes that could accelerate Canadian AI innovation. Finally, Daniel offers a fascinating glimpse into how human-computer interaction will evolve over the next decade.

This is a must-listen for leaders navigating the intersection of innovation, AI, and business transformation.

 Tune in for a rich conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of retail.

You’ll learn:

• The pivotal moment Jose refused preservatives and chose the hard path
• How to design operations backwards from the customer’s first bite
• Why “revolution” means returning food to your grandmother’s table
• The role of faith and grit when the nos outnumber the yeses

You’ll learn:

• The cultural foundations behind The Keg’s long-running people-first reputation
• Why focus and discipline beat “growth for growth’s sake”
• How curiosity and asking great questions unlock better decisions
• A playbook for aligning complex stakeholders with transparency and integrity
• The surprising leadership lessons Nick learned from being a dad of three

Highlights: owner’s-mindset empowerment, sharing bad news quickly, acting to create opportunity (and pivoting fast), and leading like a coach who sets the vision - then gets out of the way.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson speaks with Dustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard, about the leadership lessons he’s learned guiding his team to record-breaking results—even in the middle of a global pandemic.

Dustin shares how values, trust, and resilience powered Canada Snowboard to become the world’s top Olympic snowboard nation. He also reveals the surprising parallels between risk and flow on the mountain and decision-making in the boardroom, as well as his approach to scaling fast without losing culture.

Whether you’re leading in sport, business, or life - this conversation is packed with insights on faith, perseverance, and raising the bar after big wins.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Adam to unpack the myths around workplace happiness—and what leaders should really be focusing on instead. Adam shares insights from his PhD research, teaching thousands of students, and delivering talks to more than 30,000 people.

From why excellence drives happiness across every level of an organization, to the surprising role of connection in leadership, to three simple daily habits anyone can use to increase happiness—this conversation is filled with practical takeaways for CEOs and leaders at every stage.

From grit and perseverance to balancing nostalgia with innovation, Pino shares how he and his team continue to evolve a brand that Canadians love—while navigating challenges like COVID-19 and leading with joy and accountability. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a franchise operator, or a CEO, this episode is full of wisdom about resilience, culture, and the power of sticking to your core values.

Glenn shares the biggest leadership lessons he learned while scaling Amazon, how his time at BlackBerry shaped his coaching approach, and why enabling others has been the foundation of his leadership philosophy from the very beginning.

From building sustainable high-performance teams to trusting instincts in both the boardroom and the backcountry, Glenn offers powerful lessons for leaders who want to achieve long-term impact.

Whether you’re a CEO, executive, or aspiring leader, you’ll walk away from this conversation with practical insights you can put into action immediately.

In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, I sit down with Court Desautels, CEO of Neighbourhood Group of Companies, to talk about building a business that measures success beyond profit. Court shares how unconventional decisions - like providing fully paid health benefits, becoming a Certified B Corporation, and prioritizing sustainability - have transformed his company’s culture, strengthened community ties, and reduced turnover by nearly 45%.

We also dive into how Neighbourhood Group adapts to changing community needs, keeps teams motivated with purpose-driven work, and why stepping back as a leader can unlock greater growth for both people and business.

If you’re a leader looking to balance profit with purpose, this episode is for you.

Jeremy shares how he built an “A team” leadership circle, why dental care is no longer just about teeth and gums, and how CDS is redefining the connection between oral health and overall wellness. He also dives into the role of culture in sustaining growth, the fear that drives leaders to protect their purpose, and why developing future leaders is the key to long-term success.

If you’re a CEO, executive, or entrepreneur looking to balance growth with humanity, this conversation offers practical insights and bold perspectives.

Grant shares his insights from nearly 25 years leading Melmart, including how to keep a family-owned business competitive in a fast-changing market. From product innovation and global sourcing to culture and succession, Grant reflects on the power of staying close to the customer while constantly adapting.

They also explore what great leadership looks like in a legacy business, how to empower teams, and what Grant learned from his father. It’s a grounded and authentic conversation about resilience, change, and the long game in leadership.

Whether you’re leading a family business or navigating change in any organization, this episode is packed with insight and heart.

Eric discusses how Walter Capital blends capital deployment with deep operational support, the emotional intelligence required to lead through transitions, and the powerful impact of peer-to-peer CEO learning. He also opens up about one of his most meaningful deals in the funeral services space and what it taught him about leadership and value creation.

Whether you're a CEO navigating growth or a founder looking for the right investment partner, this episode offers practical wisdom from the front lines of leadership and private equity.

We explore the values that built Hyphen, the role of presence in leadership, and the powerful lesson Nat learned from losing a client due to a vacation conflict. She also reflects on her time teaching content strategy and the surprising lessons her students taught her in return.

If you’re a leader who believes in doing well by doing good, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Whether you're a CEO, policymaker, or emerging leader in the energy space, this episode is packed with real-world lessons in leadership, governance, and bold transformation.

Harry shares the leadership philosophy that earned him the Global Leadership Award at the RSM Latin America Conference, the lessons he’s learned scaling from one office to a global platform, and why culture isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a system.

From empowering people through trust to building solutions across borders, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and real-world inspiration for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders alike.