00:00 — Introduction

Dustin:
 Chris, it's so good to get some time together. I was thinking about the first time we met at a Canadian Olympic Committee gathering. I remember the positivity you brought into the room. You came up and said something incredibly uplifting and gracious, and it made me feel seen and appreciated. That was our first interaction, and I’ve always remembered that.

Chris:
 Very nice of you to say that. The reason I likely came up to you is because something you said or did resonated with me. I always think it's important to recognize people when they've made an impact.

01:18 — Leadership and building others up

Dustin:
 In today’s society, particularly in Canada and North America, leadership in sport can be challenging. But we have to keep building people up and ensuring everyone feels welcome in sport.

02:51 — Mental tools for leadership

Dustin: What mental tools do you rely on to consistently show up with positivity in your leadership role?

Chris:
 I go back to my youth and my professional hockey career. Nothing was handed to me. I had to work for everything. That work ethic stayed with me throughout my career.

There will always be tough days. But if you surround yourself with great people and maintain that willingness to grind through challenges, things usually work out on the other side.

05:23 — Consistency in leadership

Dustin: What enables your consistency as a leader when every day brings new challenges?

Chris:
 My agenda is always the best outcome for the organization. I try not to approach decisions from a personal agenda.

I focus on the big picture and connecting the dots. Once I understand the broader view, I lean into experts on my team and make thoughtful decisions rather than rushing them.

06:58 — Leading across different sports

Dustin: You've worked in hockey, taekwondo, and now karate. How do you create shared purpose when entering a new sport community?

Chris:
 Adaptability is key. During my playing career I played many different roles on the ice. That same versatility helped me professionally.

I also rely on connecting with people and being comfortable admitting when I don’t know something. That vulnerability helps build trust.

11:07 — Sport changing lives

Dustin: When did you realize sport could truly change the trajectory of someone’s life?

Chris:
 One moment that stands out was working on Hockey Canada’s “Dreams Come True” program. It helped provide equipment and registration support to kids in marginalized communities.

We brought the program to places like Inuvik, and seeing the smiles on kids’ faces and parents with tears in their eyes was incredibly powerful.

Those moments fuel you and remind you why sport matters.

14:53 — The impact of grassroots sport

Dustin:
 Those moments drive us. Grassroots sport creates opportunities and builds community, and it's something we must continue to invest in across Canada.

15:59 — The future of sport investment

Dustin: How do we continue to strengthen partnerships between sport, government, and corporate Canada?

Chris:
 Advocacy is critical. The Canadian Olympic Committee is doing strong work telling the story of sport’s value.

But we also need voices outside sport advocating for its impact — from health and wellbeing to national unity. When leaders outside sport recognize that value, we’ll see greater momentum.

19:40 — The North Star for Karate Canada

Dustin: What is the North Star guiding Karate Canada right now?

Chris:
 Collaboration is the key. Karate is a passionate and sometimes combative sport, but we've worked intentionally to build stronger relationships across provincial organizations.

We recently released an eight-year strategic plan leading to 2032, with hopes of returning karate to the Olympic program.

Operational cleanup, financial stability, and alignment across the sport have been critical steps. Now we’re focusing on growth — but growth that happens together.

22:10 — Closing

Dustin:
 Chris, you're a tremendous advocate for sport communities and leadership. Thank you for taking the time to share your insights today.

Chris:
 Thank you, Dustin.