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.