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
The Hon. Adam van Koeverden – Olympic Gold Medalist & Member of Parliament, Canada
In this episode of Defining Moments, Dustin Heise sits down with the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, four-time Olympic medalist, two-time Canadian flag bearer, and current Member of Parliament for Milton. Adam shares his journey from the Olympic podium to the halls of Parliament, his role as Canada’s Secretary of State for Sport, and his unique position as FIFA Sherpa ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.
They discuss the massive economic and social impact of sport in Canada, the power of athletics to unite people across cultures, and the defining moments that shaped Adam’s leadership both on and off the field. Adam also shares his vision for making sport more accessible for all Canadians and the importance of advocacy in creating meaningful change.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and the transformative power of sport.
0:00 – 0:26
Dustin: I got a good friend, buddy of mine. Today's guest is the Honorable Adam van Koeverden, Olympic gold medalist, member of parliament for Burlington, North Milton West. Adam is a four-time Olympic medalist in sprint kayaking, a two-time Canadian flag bearer, and now serves as Canada's Secretary of State for Sport and FIFA Sherpa for next year's FIFA Men's World Cup. Welcome Adam. I'm super grateful to have some time with you today. Can't thank you enough, man.
0:26 – 0:27
Adam: Thanks Dustin. Good to see you, man.
0:28 – 0:59
Dustin: Absolutely. Well with that, with the ending on that one—let's dig into the FIFA Sherpa role a little bit. Where you know, I read earlier this morning that there's a $2 billion at least economic impact that we'll see through that, plus another 24,000 jobs that Canadians are positively impacted by with events in a sporting event of this magnitude. Maybe just share a little bit about what you feel about that event, but also just the role of the FIFA Sherpa and how you can continue to elevate Canada's presence on the world stage, certainly, man.
0:59 – 2:27
Adam: [Adam explains the economic impact, role of FIFA Sherpa, hosting 13 games, partnerships with Mexico & USA, and diplomatic opportunities.]
2:28 – 2:48
Dustin: Yeah, for sure. Well, you know, Canada is certainly blessed with having you in that role. We know you're such a natural relationship builder… maybe you could share a little bit about, you know, what your hopes are with getting that kind of exposure and how you can continue to build on those relationships with our friends within North America.
2:49 – 3:47
Adam: [Adam explains how sport brings people together, the FIFA Congress, and promoting equality in sport.]
3:48 – 5:39
Dustin: Well, again, thanks for sharing that. But also just again, Canada is so fortunate to have someone that gets it on all aspects… maybe you can just share a little bit about how we as sport leaders across the country can help Canadians understand the huge economic impact that sport has.
Adam: [Adam details the economic impact of sport in Canada, estimating $100 billion, comparing it to other sectors, and highlighting the social and health benefits.]
6:25 – 7:13
Dustin: A hundred percent, man… do you have a potential defining moment that you can share that really shaped how you got to continue to lead today?
7:13 – 8:47
Adam: [Adam shares his defining moment running for the Canadian Olympic Committee, learning the power of advocacy, and his continued leadership in sport and public service.]
8:47 – 9:55
Dustin: Wonderful example. One final question as we continue to look ahead here… If you could change or contribute to one piece in that space, what's something that you would recommend to all of us to create more opportunity for young participants or any age participant for that matter to jump into getting involved in sport?
9:55 – 11:10
Adam: [Adam emphasizes free swimming lessons, removing barriers to access, and building a sport system that provides low and no-cost opportunities for all Canadians.]
11:11 – 11:35
Dustin: Spot on, man. Well, you can feel the energy and the fire that you have for that. Thanks so much, Adam.
Adam: Cheers, brother. It was great to see you, Dustin.
