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
Grant Heggie, President & CEO of Melmart Distributors - Balancing Legacy and Change in a 3rd Gen Family Business
In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Grant Heggie, President & CEO of Melmart Distributors Inc., a third-generation Canadian flooring company with over 55 years of legacy.
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.
John Wilson (00:00)
Grant, thank you very much for being on the CEO Global Network podcast. I've been looking forward to this for several weeks… and here we are in 2025!
Grant Heggie (00:44)
Yeah, no kidding. Wow. Yeah. Amazing.
John Wilson (00:54)
What has been your proudest moment leading Melmart for nearly 25 years, and what changes have you seen in the industry?
Grant Heggie (01:14)
There are awards and milestones, but where I feel the most pride is in seeing the team succeed… having the right people who can adapt and lead change—that’s the real win.
John Wilson (02:46)
How do you balance legacy and innovation when growing a long-standing family-owned business like Melmart?
Grant Heggie (03:05)
In our world, innovation is survival. The products we sold 25 years ago are nearly extinct today… you adapt, but never forget the values that got you here.
John Wilson (04:32)
What does great leadership look like to you in such a fast-paced industry?
Grant Heggie (04:43)
Stay close to the customer, listen more than you speak, and give your people the freedom to try, fail, and learn. Empowerment is everything.
John Wilson (05:47)
After decades in the business, what still gets you excited about going into the office every day?
Grant Heggie (06:00)
The pace of change. Global sourcing, evolving products, expansion across Canada—every day is different, and that keeps it fun.
John Wilson (08:11)
Your father was also a successful CEO. What did you learn from him about leadership?
Grant Heggie (08:27)
He loved his work, loved our mom, and had a story for everything. I learned passion, dedication, and the importance of building something that matters—and preparing for life beyond work too.
John Wilson (09:43)
Grant, thank you again for being with us on the CEO Global Network Podcast. It’s always a pleasure.
Grant Heggie (09:48)
Thanks, John. Appreciate it.
