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
Karim S. Leduc, CEO & Founder of DULCEDO Management - Building Influence, Impact, and Legacy
In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Karim S. Leduc, founder and CEO of DULCEDO Management, Canada’s leading multidisciplinary talent management agency.
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.
00:00 – Introduction
John welcomes Karim back and reflects on their first meeting.
00:20 – Origins of DULCEDO
Q: What inspired you to expand from a high-profile model agency into a full, multidisciplinary talent management company?
Karim shares how DULCEDO evolved to elevate voices with influence and create lasting partnerships.
02:04 – Spotting International Influence
Q: How do you identify talent with international influence versus local success?
Karim explains the early days of social media, forecasting the industry shift, and moving toward influencer representation.
03:57 – Introducing Influencer Marketing in Canada
Q: What was your biggest challenge in introducing influencer representation when it was new?
Karim details the early resistance from brands, the education process, and the turning point when results spoke for themselves.
06:12 – Company Culture Across Offices
Q: How do you maintain culture and alignment across offices in Montreal, Toronto, and LA?
Karim discusses carrying culture through early ambassadors, adapting during COVID, and using structured processes to keep teams connected.
08:55 – Lessons from Startups & Peer Groups
Q: How has working with startups influenced your approach to growing DULCEDO?
Karim reflects on Le Cercle, the power of peer groups, transformative advice, and building invaluable networks.
11:28 – Closing Reflections
John and Karim highlight the value of peers, mentorship, and learning from others.
12:16 – Outro
Episode wrap-up with thanks and final remarks.
