Purpose & Protection

In this bonus episode of Purpose & Protection, host and CEO Barry Pitcher welcomes Rebecca Landry, the first female Chief Operating Officer of Commissionaires Nova Scotia. Originally from Sweden, Rebecca began her career with a mission to serve in security and defence. Today, she’s a passionate leader who champions mentorship—especially for women navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry. Join us as Rebecca shares her journey.This bonus series is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the individuals who take action to drive positive change in their community, organization, and beyond. Changemakers identify problems, develop innovative solutions, and inspire others to take part in meaningful transformation. These episodes are shorter interviews with leaders in our community.Links & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcastRebecca Landry: https://commissionaires.ca/en/our-team/DEFSEC Atlantic: https://defsecatlantic.ca/Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca/careers

Host Barry Pitcher welcomes HCapt(N) Elder Debbie Eisan for a conversation about service, identity and the enduring power of community. She shares her Indigenous heritage, her experience as a woman serving over 36 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, and the resilience that shaped her leadership. An Ojibway Anishinabe kwe from Batchewana First Nation, she shares her ongoing commitment to community: from supporting Indigenous youth to her role with the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax. Elder Eisan shares how she continues to influence inclusion, representation, and human rights within the defence and security community, offering insights into purpose, protection, and mentorship.Topics Covered: Indigenous teachings and cultureWomen in leadershipWomen and Indigenous people in uniformEquity, diversity and inclusionTruth and ReconciliationLinks & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast Debbie Eisan: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/news-and-media/articles-veterans-and-families/debbie-eisan   3rd Canadian Division Support Group in Rwanda: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-peacekeepers-in-rwanda Royal Canadian Navy: https://www.canada.ca/en/navy.html 5th Canadian Division Support Base - Gagetown: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/5-canadian-division/5-canadian-division-support-base-gagetown.html Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: https://nctr.ca/about/history-of-the-trc/truth-and-reconciliation-commission-of-canada/ The Hounorable Murray Sinclair: https://nctr.ca/about/history-of-the-trc/trc-commissioners/Smudging: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/smudging Sweat Lodge: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/sweat-lodgeIndigenous Painting – End of the Road by Loretta Gould: https://commissionaires.ca/en/articles/end-of-the-road Mi’kmaq Native Friendship Centre of Halifax: https://www.mymnfc.com/   Blanket Exercise: https://www.mymnfc.com/cultural-competency-training Friends United: https://www.friends-united.ca/ Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca

Jacques van Eck, former Training Manager and current Director of Training & Corporate Security for Commissionaires Nova Scotia joins CEO and host, Barry Pitcher, in this bonus episode. Drawing from experience in high-risk environments, Jacques shares how he has reframed his expertise adapting to new contexts: bringing deep insight, resilience, and purpose to his current work. He demonstrates how skills forged in challenging circumstances can be redirected to make a meaningful difference in new landscapes.This bonus series is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the individuals who take action to drive positive change in their community, organization, and beyond. Changemakers identify problems, develop innovative solutions, and inspire others to take part in meaningful transformation. These episodes are shorter interviews with leaders in our community.Links & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast South African Police: https://www.saps.gov.za/ Commissionaires Training Department: https://commissionaires.ca/en/services/training/ Use of Force Training: https://commissionaires.ca/en/courses/use-of-force/ Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca/careers

In this episode of Purpose & Protection, host Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, speaks with Honourary Colonel Doug Ruck, KC: a pioneer in Canadian public service and a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Doug shares his inspiring journey of breaking barriers, the evolution of Commissionaires, and why representation matters. The conversation also explores the legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s only all-Black battalion in WWI, and its lasting impact on military history and racial justice. Tune in for insights on historical recognition, modern reform, and how service and community remain at the heart of Commissionaires’ mission.Topics Covered: Human rights and civil rightsEquity, diversity and inclusionDoug’s career in lawNo. 2 Construction BattalionRepresentation in organizations and leadershipLinks & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast Douglas Ruck, KC: Thurgood Marshall: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thurgood-Marshall Spotswood W, Robinson III: https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/spottswood-w-robinson-iiiNova Scotia Barrister’s Society, The Ruck Report: https://nsbs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/REGAINING-TRUST-The-Ruck-Report-Oct-29-2024-2.pdfNo. 2 Construction Battalion: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/no-2-construction-battalionThe Black Battalion by Calvin W. Ruck: https://halifax.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S135C1915982 Rev. White Diary: https://wardiaries.ca/s/operationcanada/page/william-andrew-white National Apology, No. 2 Construction Battalion: https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2022/07/09/prime-minister-delivers-apology-descendants-no-2-construction Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca 

In this episode of Purpose & Protection, host Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, speaks with Corinne MacLellan, a communications strategist and Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Halifax Rifles, about the essential role of civilian leadership in Canada’s defence and security landscape.Corinne shares her journey of service, including her work in public affairs, Indigenous relations, and military engagement. From founding Halifax International Fleet Week to supporting Canadian Armed Forces reservists through the Canadian Forces Liaison Council, her contributions highlight how civilians can meaningfully support national defence.Together, they explore the power of storytelling, the importance of community partnerships, and the impact of honorary military roles in strengthening the connection between Canadians and the Armed Forces.Whether you're in uniform or a civilian, this conversation is a powerful reminder that service to country takes many forms.Topics Covered: Civilian service and support in defenceHonourary roles in the Canadian Armed ForcesMilitary history and heritage in Nova ScotiaIndigenous and community engagementReservist support and the With Glowing Hearts programWomen in public service and defence leadershipStrategic communications in national securityLinks & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast About Corinne MacLellan: https://www.canexusgroup.com/corinnemaclellan The Halifax Riffles: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/5-canadian-division/the-halifax-rifles.htmlCanadian Forces Liaison Council: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/canada-reserve-force/about-canadian-forces-liaison-council.html Service and Sacrifice: Extraordinary Nova Scotians in the Great War by Ken Hynes: https://halifax.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S135C2132625 Lieutenant Colonel Roderick Campbell McLeod: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canadian-virtual-war-memorial/detail/360302 Army Museum, Halifax Citadel: https://armymuseumhalifax.ca/ RA Park and South Barracks: https://hmhps.ca/sites/RA-park-and-south-barracks-area Honourary Appointments: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/showcasing/honorary-appointments.html CADPAD: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/news-publications/2024/02/cadpat-mt-uniforms.html Mes Kit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/military-identity-system/dress-manual/chapter-5/annex-b.html With Glowing Hearts Program: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/canada-reserve-force/supporting-reservists/with-glowing-hearts.html Sam Glode: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/samuel-glode  Alex Decoteau: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/alex-decoteau  Operation Bluenose: https://ns.legion.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ABMO_50_-_2020_-_Operation_Bluenose-4c1.pdfSubscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca

Acclaimed Toronto-based editorial photographer Trevor Godinho joins host Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, to discuss his powerful portrait series, Honour Country Sacrifice. This moving project captures the stories and faces of Canadian Armed Forces members, past and present, highlighting the diversity and humanity behind the uniform.Trevor shares how the series honours veterans and serving members from all walks of life, including women, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and people of colour. Rather than focusing on medals and accolades, Honour Country Sacrifice shines a light on personal stories of dedication, resilience, and quiet sacrifice, from WWII veterans to newly enlisted recruits and families of the fallen.Through compelling photography and storytelling, Trevor aims to preserve the legacy of service and deepen our understanding of what it truly means to be Canadian.Topics Covered: Trevor’s journey as an editorial photographerThe inspiration behind Honour Country SacrificeVeteran recognition and inclusive storytellingRemembrance Day reflectionsMilitary history and personal narrativesIdentity, service, and Canadian valuesLinks & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast Trevor Godinho: https://trevorgodinho.com Honour Country Sacrifice: https://honourcountrysacrifice.com Trevor’s photography subjects: https://trevorgodinho.com/portrait-sessionsCamp X: https://www.camp-x.com/Royal Canadian Military Institute: https://www.rcmi.org/ The Enigma Project: https://www.enigmaproject.ai/ The First Force: https://sauldavid.co.uk/books/the-force-the-legendary-special-ops-unit-and-wwiis-mission-impossible/The Devil’s Brigade: https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/what-the-devils-brigade-did-in-world-war-ii/ Elinchrom: https://www.elinchrom.com/ Captain Nichola Goddard Women in Leadership Series: April 2025: https://truepatriotlove.com/get-involved/events/captain-nichola-goddard-women-in-leadership/ Fred Arsenault and Bren machine gun: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/fred-arsenault-world-war-2-vet-birthday-cards-1.5485335 Liberation of Holland: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/liberation-of-holland Commander Paul Smith: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/paul-smith HMCS York: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/military-history/history-heritage/official-military-history-lineages/lineages/list-commissioned-ships/york.html The Hidi Group: https://hidi.com/Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation: https://veterans.gc.ca/en/about-vac/who-we-are/department-officials/minister/minister-veterans-affairs-commendation/trevor-francis-godinho Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca

Introducing our bonus episode series: Changemakers. This series is dedicated to highlighting the individuals who take action to drive positive change in their communities, organizations, and beyond. Changemakers identify problems, develop innovative solutions, and inspire others to take part in meaningful transformation. These episodes will be shorter interviews with leaders in our community.Justin Tyner, District Manager for Commissionaires Nova Scotia’s (CNS) Northern Division, covering Colchester, Cumberland, and Guysborough counties, joins host and CEO of CNS, Barry Pitcher, in this episode. With more than 20 years of security experience, Justin’s career reflects his deep-rooted calling to serve and protect. What began as a trusted friend’s recommendation to join CNS has grown into a leadership journey defined by commitment, mentorship, and community impact.Links & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast Hurricane Fiona: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/weather-snoddon-fiona-recap-1.6976249 Cobequid Pass: https://www.cobequidpass.com/aboutus Commissionaires Canada Celebrating 100 Years of Service: commissionaires100.caSubscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca/careers 

Brigadier-General Mark Parsons, CD, from the 5th Canadian Division, joins host Colonel Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia and a senior officer in the Primary Army Reserve, for a compelling conversation about the vital role of the Canadian Reserve Force in national security and community support.Often referred to as “citizen soldiers,” Reservists are part-time members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who serve their country while maintaining their civilian careers. They live and work in the communities they protect, bringing unique skills, purpose, and dedication to both their civilian and CAF roles.Whether your interests lie in the Reserves, leadership development, or community service, this conversation provides meaningful insights into the individuals who answer the call when their country and communities need them most. We actively encourage Reservists to consider becoming Commissionaires, as we are committed to ensuring they have secure employment upon their return from deployment.Topics Covered: What it means to be a reservist Community Impact within Atlantic CanadaHow reservists contribute nationally and globallyInsights into being a Reservist How to join the Reserves and start your journey How organizations can support serviceLinks & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast Brigadier-General Parsons Bio: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/senior-leaders/5-canadian-division.html Canadian 5th Division: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/5-canadian-division.html Operation PROTEUS: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/operations/military-operations/current-operations/operation-proteus.html Reserve Force: https://forces.ca/en/reserve-force/ Operation REASSURANCE: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/operations/military-operations/current-operations/operation-reassurance.html Operation IMPACT: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/operations/military-operations/recently-completed/operation-impact.htmlOperation UNIFIER and the Ukraine War: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/operations/military-operations/current-operations/operation-unifier.html Jobs in the Reserves: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/jobs-careers/summer-jobs.html Commissionaires Canada Celebrating 100 Years of Service: commissionaires100.caSubscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca

In this inaugural episode, Commissionaires Nova Scotia CEO and host, Barry Pitcher, sits down with the Honourable Peter MacKay, PC, KC, to discuss the evolving security landscape and the importance of supporting Canada’s veterans. From service to defence, this conversation explores leadership, legacy and national purpose. Topics Covered: Peter MacKay’s role with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) as Defence Minister during the Afghanistan conflictImportance of ensuring the CAF has support, resources, capabilities, respect and personnelChanges in Canada’s security environment Arctic Defence and Halifax connection with NATO DIANAVeteran advocacy and supportCommissionaires Hiring Veterans and First RespondersVolunteering in the Community, Peter MacKay and Wounded Warriors Links & Resources:Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast  About The Honourable Peter MacKay: https://www.mcinnescooper.com/news/deloitte-canada-and-mcinnes-cooper-welcome-former-cabinet-minister-the-hon-peter-mackay-p-c-q-c/ About the Afghan Conflict: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/wars-and-conflicts/afghanistanWounded Warriors: https://woundedwarriors.ca/What is a challenge coin? https://commissionaires.ca/en/articles/specially-minted-challenge-coins-presented-to-commissionaires-during-the-organizations-centennial/ Westray Mine Tragedy: https://museumofindustry.novascotia.ca/what-see-do/coal-and-grit/tragedy-westray NATO DIANA: https://www.diana.nato.int/ Human Trafficking Awareness: https://commissionaires.ca/en/articles/commissionaires-nova-scotia-joins-fight-against-human-trafficking/Navigating the North, McInnes Cooper Event https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/92ab0b29-bf64-4ca9-86aa-64a2a0d5f2ab@88a63737-494d-4ec2-91b9-8d86f2908c74Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.Presented by Commissionaires Nova ScotiaProduced by PodstarterBecome a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca 

Commissionaires Nova Scotia proudly presents Purpose & Protection, a podcast dedicated to the people behind Canada’s security: veterans, their families, civilians and all those dedicated to keeping our communities safe.