From Seminary to CEO: Paul Perreault’s Journey of Purpose, People, and Leadership

What do seminary school, a dairy burn room, and running a global biotech powerhouse have in common? Paul Perreault. In this episode of The Authority Company Podcast, host Joe Pardavila sits down with Paul Perreault, former CEO of CSL and author of The Detour CEO, to explore how a non-linear path shaped his values-driven approach to leadership. Paul opens up about working 80-hour weeks in a restaurant, scrubbing burnt milk, and studying to become a priest—all before leading a multi-billion dollar company. He shares why being a generalist is underrated, how to separate identity from work, and what it really means to “add value” in life and business. Whether you’re navigating your own professional pivot or leading a team, Paul’s insights on humility, culture, and the myth of the corporate ladder are worth the listen.