CEO Global Network Podcast
🎙 Hosted by John Wilson, founder of CEO Global Network and author of GREAT CEOs and How They Are Made, this podcast delivers powerful insights for CEOs and executives looking to grow as leaders and drive lasting success.
Each episode features candid conversations with high-performing business leaders, expert speakers, and industry trailblazers—all focused on sharpening your leadership edge, building resilient companies, and improving your life, your team, and your impact.
Join a community of CEOs helping CEOs succeed.
CEO Global Network Podcast
Pino Di Ioia, CEO and Owner BeaverTails Canada Inc. - From Store Manager to CEO
What does it take to rise from store manager to CEO and owner of a beloved Canadian brand? In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Pino Di Ioia, CEO of BeaverTails Pastry and Moozoo Creamery, to explore the values and lessons that have guided his remarkable journey since 1987.
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.
00:00 – Welcome
John introduces Pino and recalls their first meeting in Montreal.
00:33 – From store manager to CEO: what core value has stayed constant?
Pino shares why grit and perseverance have been the foundation of his success.
01:28 – How do you balance nostalgia with innovation at BeaverTails?
Pino explains how the brand honors tradition while staying fresh for new generations.
03:38 – What leadership moment during COVID defines you the most?
Pino reflects on tough layoffs, record-breaking rebounds, and the importance of accountability.
05:50 – What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned from working with franchisees?
Pino talks about the surprising lack of planning he’s seen, and why hope isn’t a plan.
07:08 – How do you decide when to stick with tradition and when to innovate boldly?
Pino describes BeaverTails’ product innovations and the principle of “breaking it before it needs fixing.”
09:11 – What’s the one lesson you wish every entrepreneur learned earlier?
Pino emphasizes focusing on culture and brand growth over transactional growth—and how financial success always follows.
11:32 – Closing
John thanks Pino for his insights and contributions.
