What does it mean to truly lead with values - especially when the stakes are highest?

In this episode of Defining Moments, host Dustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard, sits down with Karen O’Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, for a powerful conversation on leadership, purpose, and the courage to make values-based decisions under pressure.

Karen reflects on the defining moments that shaped her leadership philosophy — including Canada’s unprecedented decision in March 2020 to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the interest of athlete safety. She shares why pausing in moments of tension is one of the most powerful tools a leader can use, how purpose fuels resilience, and why athlete-first values must always guide decision-making.

Together, Dustin and Karen explore the transformative power of sport, the rise of athlete leadership, and why - even in challenging times - the future of sport in Canada remains bright.

This episode is a masterclass in values-based leadership, grit, and the lasting impact sport can have far beyond competition.

Sport has the power to do far more than win medals - it can unite communities, shape national identity, and create pathways for the next generation of leaders.

In this episode of Defining Moments, host Dustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard, sits down with Katherine Henderson, President and CEO of Hockey Canada, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, nation-building, and the true impact of sport in Canada.

Katherine reflects on how sport has shaped her life, why listening to communities is essential for sustainable success, and how major moments - from international games to grassroots rinks - can bring people together across differences. She also shares her approach to values-based leadership, preparing athletes and systems for Olympic moments, and her candid advice to young women aspiring to lead in sport.

This is a powerful conversation about authenticity, ambition, and why sport remains one of Canada’s most important tools for unity.

What happens when you stop chasing titles - and start building something bigger than yourself?

In this episode of Defining Moments, host Dustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard, sits down with Russell Reimer, President of Small Victories and one of Canada’s most influential advisors in major sport events, athlete branding, and sport tourism.

Russ shares how a clear career vision - not a job ladder - shaped his path from Olympic broadcasts to leading bids for the X Games, SailGP, and the Calgary 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Together, they explore entrepreneurial thinking in sport, why Canada underestimates the economic and cultural power of events, and how private risk, storytelling, and coalition-building can unlock government support.

The conversation culminates in a powerful reflection on athlete resilience through the remarkable comeback story of Mark McMorris, and why impact, mentorship, and legacy - not wins alone - are what truly define success.

This episode is a masterclass in leadership, vision, and how sport can galvanize communities, inspire nations, and shape lives.