An Inspired Chat with Steve Del Gardo of Covington, Kentucky

We recently had the chance to connect with Steve Del Gardo and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Steve, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I believe many people struggle with the idea of true happiness. Too often, they search for it in relationships, material possessions, or external circumstances. But real happiness can only be found within. It isn’t a destination to arrive at; it’s a journey to embrace. For a long time, I thought happiness came only through love, and while that’s partly true, it begins with the love you have for yourself, not from others. Some people claim that money makes them happy, and perhaps it brings comfort or gratification but is that the same as genuine happiness? I’ve seen wealthy people live in misery, while those with very little find joy and peace. So, before you chase happiness outside of yourself, look inward. Discover what truly lights up your soul and then live it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Del Gardo’s is a gourmet cannoli shop known for crafting unique flavors, from sweet to savory. Over the past eight years, I’ve created more than 250 different varieties, with new flavors debuting every month. But this journey began long before the shop opened. In 2012, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer a diagnosis that could have cost me my life had I waited any longer to see my doctor. That moment changed everything. I promised myself I would live life to the fullest, pursue my dreams, and make a difference along the way.

After beating cancer, I founded Protect The Pecs, an awareness foundation dedicated to educating the public about male breast cancer. Then, in 2017–2018, I followed my passion and opened an Italian dessert shop centered on cannoli and tiramisu. It’s been a wild, adventurous ride ever since and I’m only getting started. Just a few months ago, my trademark for The Cannoli Guy was officially approved, and now I’m excited to focus on licensing the brand through a series of cannoli-inspired products.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I had to follow in my father’s footsteps. He was a respected business leader in the IT industry, and I found myself in a similar path working in IT sales. For 20 years, I built my career and, by 43, had risen to Vice President of an IT company. On paper, I had “made it.” But looking back, I realize I wasn’t truly happy. The money was good, but the stress was overwhelming, my health suffered, and my relationships did too.

Then came cancer a challenge that, surprisingly, became a blessing in disguise. It forced me to slow down, to truly value life, and to focus on what really matters. Before cancer, my cup felt empty. After cancer, my cup overflows.

That’s the message I share with my son: follow your own path. This cannoli business is my passion, but your passion will be different. Whatever it is, chase it with everything you’ve got and make sure you love what you do.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Do not let fear control your destiny. Do not let other people control you. Do what makes you happy and do not care what people think of you.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest myths about being a small business owner is that you can take time off whenever you want. The reality is often the opposite. In my case, I work most holidays and sometimes seven days a week. It’s not all glamorous it’s tough, demanding work. Dealing with the public can be challenging, but at the same time, it can also be deeply rewarding.

What many don’t realize is that the stress of this life takes a toll. In fact, there’s a high rate of suicide among people in this industry. The constant pressure, missed family moments, strained relationships, and financial struggles can feel overwhelming. That’s why kindness matters. The next time you visit a small business, remember a simple act of kindness can go a very long way.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What pain do you resist facing directly?
The pain I struggle with is imagining life after Del Gardo’s is gone. At nearly 57, I sometimes wonder what path will be left for me. I started this journey at 50 an age when most people are thinking about retirement while I was just beginning to build something new. And now I find myself asking: when will it be time to say, I’m done making cannoli? That thought scares me, because I truly love what I do. I love the joy on people’s faces when they taste my cannoli and the feeling of being part of their lives.

Still, at the heart of it all, I hold onto hope that my story will inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter when or where their journey begins.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.delgardos.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delgardoscannoli
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delgardos.cannoli

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