Defining Moments with Dustin
Defining Moments with Dustin Heise is where leadership meets high-performance sport. Dustin, CEO of Canada Snowboard, sits down with the athletes, coaches, and leaders who know what it takes to build strong teams and values-driven cultures. Expect real conversations, practical insights, and a closer look at the world of snowboarding, from Olympic drama to grassroots beginnings.
Defining Moments with Dustin
Karen O’Neill - CEO, Canadian Paralympic Committee
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.
(0:00 – 0:35)
Dustin introduces Karen O’Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, highlighting her leadership, advocacy for inclusive and safe sport, and impact on Canadian and international sport.
Why Have You Always Led From a Values-First Perspective?
(0:43 – 1:23)
Dustin asks Karen why she has consistently chosen to lead from a values-first approach, even when it can be more challenging or slower.
(1:23 – 2:38)
Karen explains that results without values don’t endure. She reflects on the importance of self-awareness, culture, and aligning decisions with core values as the only sustainable leadership path.
What Were the Defining Moments That Clarified Your Values as a Leader?
(2:39 – 3:26)
Dustin asks Karen to reflect on defining moments that helped her understand herself and her leadership compass.
(3:27 – 4:28)
Karen discusses the power of pausing — especially in emotionally charged situations — to realign decisions with values and purpose.
Can You Share a Time When Values Guided a Difficult Decision?
(4:29 – 6:32)
Karen recounts the March 2020 decision for Canada to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. She explains the intense three-day process, the geopolitical and emotional weight of the decision, and why athlete safety ultimately made the choice clear.
Where Does Your Grit and Resilience as a Leader Come From?
(6:32 – 7:34)
Dustin highlights Karen’s work ethic and grit, asking where she finds the ability to dig deep during the hardest moments.
(7:35 – 10:23)
Karen points to purpose and athletes as her driving forces. She speaks passionately about the transformative power of Para sport, athlete resilience, and the joy of working alongside values-aligned people.
When Did You Know Sport Would Be Central to Your Purpose?
(10:23 – 11:13)
Dustin asks when Karen realized sport would play a defining role in her life and career.
(11:13 – 12:27)
Karen shares her early connection to sport through swimming and the sense of belonging it provided.
How Have Recent Experiences Reinforced the Power of Sport?
(12:27 – 14:23)
Karen reflects on the Youth Games in Santiago and a recent Lululemon athlete collaboration, highlighting inclusion, innovation, and the importance of athletes feeling seen and heard.
Where Do You See the Future of Sport in Canada and Globally?
(14:24 – 15:12)
Dustin asks Karen about her foresight on sport’s ability to change the world.
(15:13 – 16:58)
Karen candidly addresses funding challenges while expressing optimism driven by athlete leadership, community collaboration, and collective action across the sport system.
Closing Reflections
(16:59 – 17:50)
Dustin thanks Karen for her leadership and insights. Karen shares her appreciation and closes the conversation.
