The Northern Sentinels Podcast

On this episode, I’m joined by Lieutenant-General Darcy Molstad, the inaugural Commander of the Canadian Joint Forces Command. Darcy was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, and joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1996 after completing a Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta. Before the CAF, he was a competitive pole vaulter, winning two junior national titles. He earned his wings in 1999, completed operational training on the CF-18 Hornet, and went on to numerous flying roles including with the US Marines. Over a career spanning nearly thirty years, he commanded at every level — from squadron to wing — and accumulated over 2,200 hours on the CF-18. In December 2025, he was promoted to his current rank and appointed to lead the newly established Canadian Joint Forces Command. Darcy shares the why behind the new organization and where the priorities sit as he looks to add immediate value in an increasingly unstable international security environment.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode I’m joined by the CEO and Founder Dominion Dynamics, Eliot Pence. Born and raised in Victoria, Eliot spent much of his youth in a VW Van camping around British Columbia with his family. After completing his undergrad at UVic, he spent some time working for the Canadian International Development Agency in Africa before heading to Yale for grad school. At the conclusion of his Masters, Eliot returned to Africa for the next decade working across the continent to help American investors participate in the some of the fastest growing economies at the time. He eventually ended up in Washington DC working as a consultant and then found his way to a small start up called Anduril. On 6 June 2025, Eliot launched a new Canadian defence company called Dominion Dynamics with its first objective being to connect sensors, autonomous systems and people in the Arctic. We dive into the Canadian defence moment and what Canada needs to do to realize our ambitions of strategic autonomy and national resilience. As always, the opinions expressed on the show are mine and mine alone.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

In this episode I’m joined by Army veteran and current Chief Information Officer of Air Canada, Mel Crocker. Mel’s journey began as a military signals officer, where he gained invaluable leadership experience in places like Somalia. After 20 years of service, he transitioned to the private sector, working with General Dynamics and eventually finding his way to Air Canada. Mel shares his insights on the importance of self-awareness, adapting to company culture, and the evolving role of technology in the airline industry. He also delves into his personal background, growing up in a military family with deep roots in Newfoundland, and his views on balancing individual and group priorities.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I’m joined by the CEO of Calian, Kevin Ford. He was born and raised in Ottawa to a father in sales and a mother who worked for the Royal Canadian Legion. Upon the completion of high school, he jumped right into the work force. He started in the early 80s in data processing with his first big job being with National Defence. His technical background eventually led him to the sales side of business world. This change in focus eventually led him to be the top executive at the Canadian defence company, Calian.In addition to his professional life, Kevin is a champion of the Ottawa music scene and has been coaching hockey for decades.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Petition e-6661 - Victoria Cross for Jess LarochelleOn this Remembrance Day episode I’m joined by a Canadian who has served his country and community in many ways. Bruce Moncur hails from Windsor, Ontario, but spent his elementary school years in Texas. When his family moved back north he landed in Detroit, but went to high school in Windsor. He joined the Army Reserves prior to 9/11 and become part of the citizen soldiers that contributed significantly to Canada’s contribution. On 4 September 2006, he was wounded when a US aircraft mistook Canadian troops for the enemy. Dozens were wounded and Private Mark Anthony Green was killed. Bruce sustained a traumatic brain injury that resulted in the removal of 5% of his brain. His recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. Part of his ongoing service is a campaign to see Canadian military personnel accurately recognized for their acts of heroism. The most high profile being the camping for Jess Larochelle to receive the Victoria Cross.Please take a look at the petition for Jess Larochelle and add your voice to a formal review of his case. The petitions closes on 20 November 2025. Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Military operations are dangerous, but so is training for operations. On this NSP Short, Cole Rosentreter describes a parachuting accident that changed the trajectory of his life.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

A discussion with authors Gordon Cullen and Barry Nisbet on their new book about the selection, training, and operational employment of Canadian snipers. Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Billie and I have not know each other long, but our lives have crossed at several points. Billie grew up in a military family where both parents served. Unclear if it was nurture or nature, but Billie wanted to be a pilot from a young age and ended up as the first newbie pilot to fly the CF-18 Hornet in the mid-80s. Billie’s career was split between fighter pilot duties in Canada and being a test pilot in the U.S. His career culmination point was leading a Canadian fighter squadron into combat in 1999 during the NATO bombing campaign in Kosovo. At the completion of that operation, Billie retired from the Canadian military and found himself in the test pilot world with most of this next chapter being spent on the F35 program.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Dropping a bomb might seem a simple task, but there countless things to coordinate to enable that pilot to hit the right target. Billie Flynn walks through the different parts to a bombing mission on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Everyone has failures in life. My sense is the only time someone truly fails is when they decide to quit. On this NSP Short, Billie Flynn shares how his early failures as a pilot and student set the foundation for future success. Oh, and his mom might have provided a gentle nudge at the right moment.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I’m joined by journalist, writer, and New York Times best selling author, Dan Gardner. He grew up in the small town of Swastika near Kirkland Lake in Northern Ontario. Yes, you heard me correctly, Swastika, Ontario. As you would expect, he spent his time hunting and fishing, and helping to raise orphan wild animals. Again, you heard me right. Despite this connection to the outdoors, his passion was history. After an undergraduate and masters in history, with a detour through law school, he landed as a journalist at the Ottawa Citizen. He was fortunate to work for an editor who sent him around the world. He eventually started writing books with a focus on psychology and decision-making. Dan is a prolific commentator on politics, policy, and geo-strategic issues. This discussion took place soon after the Canadian federal election and we had a great discussion on various hot button issues.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Is the tombstone mentality killing Canada’s defence and security? On this NSP Short, Dan Gardner explains this phenomenon and how it’s impacted Canadians’ ability to properly assess risk.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Why has Canada failed to do big things over the last few decades? We have the people, skills, and the money, so what’s wrong? Listen to Dan Gardner describe how big things get done on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I’m joined by one of Canada’s foremost experts in northern security, Dr. Whitney Lackenbauer. Whitney grew up in Kitchener, Ontario and hails from a hard working, tight knit family. By the time he finished high school, he knew he wanted to be a historian. He did is undergraduate degree at the University of Waterloo and went west for his Masters and PhD at the University of Calgary. However, it was a co-op placement with the Department of National Defence, where he got the opportunity to research the history of indigenous service and get exposure to the Canadian Rangers, that turned his gaze northwards. He was hooked and his academic career has been focused on Canada’s north ever since. Whitney has (co-) written or (co-) edited more than sixty books and more than one hundred academic articles and chapters. He is an energetic and passionate person and you can imagine how much fun it must be to take one of his classes at Trent University.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

People confuse being unsafe with being uncomfortable. On this NSP Short, Whitney Lackenbauer explains the difference and argues the merits of intellectual discomfort.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Political parties like to make promises about building more infrastructure in the north. You hear in every election cycle. Dr Whitney Lackenbauer explains the challenges of fulfilling these promises on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Image credit - Sonya GilksOn this episode, I’m joined by Fredericton’s top cop, Chief Gary Forward. Gary was born into a military family and moved around in his youth before the Forward’s settled in Fredericton. He spent his childhood playing sports and knew his career path from an early age. After high school he attended the Atlantic Police Academy before joining the Fredericton Police Force. He enjoyed policing from the start, but it took time for him to find his professional footing and understand his place as a leader. He left the force in 2016 when he didn’t see the organization heading in a direction he could support. This gave him a chance to do other things in law enforcement before coming back as the Chief of Police. Gary is a student of communicating with people and how to build organizations with purpose and shared vision.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Everyone physically ages, but not everyone grows up. On this NSP Short, Gary Forward talks about the importance of personal growth in his professional journey.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Doing the right thing can be uncomfortable, especially when it holds someone else accountable. Gary Forward shares a story about living values and the hope that everyone is supported when they are in a similar situation.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I’m joined by veteran and military nurse, Mary Ann Barber. Born and raised in Sault Ste Maire, Ontario, Mary Ann spent her youth playing sports, hunting and fishing, and being empowered to follow her own path. After starting her nursing degree at the University of Ottawa, she joined the military and began her journey of service. After completing her education and basic military training, she was quickly thrust into military operations. At the time, this meant deploying to Bosnia where most of medicine was similar to being in Canada. However, when she deployed to the role three hospital on Kandahar Airfield, the exposure to significant medical trauma was dialled to 11. The constant stream of combat casualties had an impact. Mary Ann had her own challenges that resulted from her military service. She is honest and forthright about her struggles and it’s inspiring to hear how she has found a path back to health and continues to serve Canada in many ways.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

To serve is to sacrifice. Some sacrifices are small like a few hours a week to coach a sport. Some sacrifices are life altering. Listen to Mary Ann Barber describe the impacts of her service on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

We prepare our military medical professionals for combat in Canadian emergency rooms. This is the one of the only options available. However, does it really prepare them for the realities of war. On this NSP Short, military nurse, Mary Ann Barber, describes the major differences of a combat ER.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with veteran and clinical psychologist, Dr John Whelan. John was born and raised in Newfoundland and was the oldest of nine children. He had to grow up fast as the eldest child and protector of his younger siblings. He left home after high school, joined the Navy and spent almost a decade in uniform. As a life long learner with a curious mind, John started his post secondary education and hasn’t stopped since. He has a PhD in Clinical Psychology focused on the effectiveness of addiction treatment programs. John has dedicated much of his time on helping veterans dealing with post traumatic stress disorder. He is part of the team that runs Camp Aftermath with fellow Northern Sentinel, Farid Yaghini. John is passionate about helping veterans and honest about the ways in which military leaders have failed in their responsibilities to their people.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Image credit - the sunflower societyI had never heard the term medicalization before this discussion. On this NSP Short, Dr John Whelan not only explains the term, but outlines how it relates to PTSD.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

How do you find wellness after dealing with trauma? There is no easy answer, but on this NSP Short, Dr John Whelan describes the power of the shared experience as a vehicle for healing.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

In August and September 2025, the Gasparotto Group will paddle 1,000 km down the historic Ottawa River from Lac des Outaouais to Westboro Beach, Ottawa. I sit down with the company President, Mark Garparotto, to discuss the project and how people can get involved. Paddle for Resilience WebsiteWounded Warriors Fundraising WebsiteThanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Episode seven in the federal election series is with Tim Powers. We discuss the rare moment in Canadian politics where defence is in the spotlight and how to make the most of this opportunity.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Episode six in the federal election series is with Dr. Adam Chapnick of the Canadian Forces College. Adam provides an essential primer of defence policy in Canada and what we should expect as Canadians from our elected officials.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Photo credit: Corporal Alisa Strelley, Canadian Armed Forces PhotoEpisode five in the federal election series is with VAdm (ret’d) Ron Lloyd. We discuss the need for a strong Navy to deter and defend the nation.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Episode four in the federal election series is with Canadian fighter pilot and F35 expert, Billie Flynn. We talk about facts and fiction around the F35 and if it’s still the right investment for national defence.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Please credit: Corporal Jacob Hanlon, Canadian Forces PhotoEpisode three in the federal election series is Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in the Study of the Canadian North and Professor in the School for the Study of Canada at Trent University. We talk about the importance of the North for national security, defence, and sovereignty.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Episode two in the federal election series is with entrepreneur and financial expert, Kevin Reed. We talk about the ability to speed up spending on national defence through the use of different public and private investment tools.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Episode one in the federal election series is with LGen (ret’d) Stu Beare. We talk about the importance of deterrence to meet the current threat of peer on peer warfare. Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

One of our original Northern Sentinels is back! Farid Yaghini (episode 7) is a newly published author and I speak to him about the motivation for the book, the process of writing, and what the book is about. Some of the proceeds from the book go to the veteran charity he started - Camp Aftermath. Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with one of the kindest people I know, Peter Devlin. Born in Scarborough, Ontario, he is the child of immigrants from England who came to Canada to find new opportunities. His father was in the British military which likely planted the seed for his lifetime of service. He enrolled in the Army and, with his wife Judy, moved the family 12 times over his 35 years in uniform. Over his career, he deployed internationally to Cyprus, the Balkans three times, Afghanistan, and once to Iraq with the Americans. Peter eventually became Canada’s Army Commander as his last job in the military. He is currently the President of Fanshawe College in London Ontario where he continues to lead future generations of Canadian on their educational journeys.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Image credit - Slivercloud travelRunning an Army is tough, but make no mistake, running a college has its own challenges. Colleges deal with three level of governments and all of the shifting political sands that come with that reality. Listen to Peter Devlin explain some of those challenges on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Transition is a challenge, even for Army Commanders. On this NSP Short, Peter Devlin shares his transition experience and reminds us all to plan early and plan often for big life changes.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with the founder and CEO of Nordsapce, Rahul Goel. At 32 years old, Rahul has achieved more in the business world than people twice his age. Born and raised in Toronto, he started his first company during the daily commute to university. His first customer paid him 50 bucks to use his software and this launched his company PheedLoop. Although he started as a business school student at York, he was attending classes in physics and math instead. After a short stint at York, he was accepted into the Engineering Science program at the University of Toronto. When he graduated, he lived around the world trying to figure out where to put down roots that would get him closer to people working in the space industry. He founded Nordspace with the vision of building a truly domestic Canadian space capability - a space vehicle designed, built, and launched in Canada with a Canadian payload. Rahul is an impressive human who has deliberately chosen to pursue his passions in ways that will benefit Canada and Canadians.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Rahul Goel is a person who lives his values. Instead of taking his space company to the US, he has made a conscience decision to stay in Canada to build our domestic capabilities. Listen to why this was important to him on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

How do you go from loving airplanes, space, and science as a kid to building your own rocket company? It takes a vision, a lot of hard work and money, and a deep-seated passion. On this NSP Short, Rahul Goel explains why he wanted to build NordSpace.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with Canadian entrepreneur, business mentor, and veteran, Brice Scheschuk. Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, he was adopted at birth and had a wonderful childhood with a loving family. He knew in high school he wanted to do something in the business world and, upon graduation, went to the University of Regina. Before starting university, he joined the Naval Reserve and fell in love with the profession of arms. This motivated him to take a gap year to finish his Navy training and then he transferred to Dalhousie University to finish his education. After graduation he got the entrepreneurial bug and was involved in numerous startups over the years culminating with the co-founding of Wind Mobile. After a selling the company, Brice has focused his time and energy on investing in and mentoring new companies to help them succeed in business.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Canadians have been frustrated for decades with the expense of wireless plans in Canada. Ever wonder why we are in this situation? Listen to Brice Scheschuk, one of the co-founders of Wind Mobile, explain how the Canadian telecom oligopoly has made Canadian wireless some of the most expensive in the world.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Imagine if the only way you could succeed at business was to be the next Uber or AirBnB? There is an unhealthy narrative around these unicorn companies that needs to be debunked. On this NSP Short, Brice Scheschuk talks about how he mentors entrepreneurs to ensure they understand there are many ways to succeed in business.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with Canadian businessman and philanthropist, Wayne Goranson. Wayne is the fifth generation of his family to be born and raised on the family farm in Weyburn Saskatchewan. He went to university for engineering and since then has been involved with defence, oil and gas, agriculture, and data and information management. Along the way he has spent a significant amount of time and money giving back to those in need. He has done this around the globe and in his own backyard in Saskatoon. He is truly a great Canadian and I’m grateful he took time to share his story.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

As I often say, there are many ways to serve. During the pandemic, Wayne Goranson started to make meals at home for those less fortunate in Saskatoon. On this NSP Short, he shares the story of feeding 27 children during this challenging time for many families.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

When Hurricane Matthew hit Haiti in 2016, Wayne Gornson was building an agricultural enterprise in the Dominican Republic. When asked if there was a way he could help the affected population, he jumped in to action. Listen to the amazing story on this NSP Short.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with the CEO of Invictus Games Vancouver - Whistler 2025, Scott Moore. Born in Montreal, but raised in Toronto, Scott grew up in a family where most were in the financial sector. This was not to be his path and he focused on one of his passions, sports. Scott became one of Canada’s most prominent sports broadcasters. He was one of the first employees at TSN in the 80s, helped start Sportsnet on CTV, ran CBC Sports, and eventually became the President of Sportsnet and NHL at Rogers media. Scott came out of retirement to lead the organization and execution of Invictus 2025. The opening ceremony for the games is on 8 February so I hope you take the time to not only listen to this episode, and episode 23 with Invictus athlete Alaina Mundy, but to watch the games later this month.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

For those who have not served in the military, it may be difficult to understand why the Invictus Games is so meaningful. Listen to Scott Moore, the CEO of Invictus 2025, describe the power of sport in the healing journey of ill and injured veterans.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

On this episode, I speak with Canada’s youngest ever chess Grand Master, Mark Bluvshtein. Mark was born in the Soviet Union and was taught the game of chess by his father. After the fall of the wall, it became difficult to afford the basics, so the family immigrated to Israel where Mark continued to develop his abilities in another very strong chess culture. After a few years in Israel, the family was on the move again and landed in Toronto when Mark was 11. Already a very high level chess player, Mark quickly established himself as one of the best in Canada and became the youngest ever Canadian chess Grand Master at 16. He continued to play chess after high school and even became a full-time chess player to see how far he could develop his abilities. Mark remains involved with the chess community in Canada and espouses many of the virtues of the game - thinking ahead, assessing risk, and dealing with the consequences of decisions.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com

Image credit - Remote Chess AcademyThere is no way I am watching a seven hour chess game. Not only do I not understand the game well, but few things can hold my attention for that long. I’m not alone. On this NSP Short, chess Grand Master Mark Bluvshtein breaks down the different formats and talks about the growing popularity of blitz chess.Thanks again for listening to the NSP.NSP on LinkedInNSP on FacebookNSP on InstagramNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 19 - onwards): PaulYudin, Upbeat Uplifting CorporateNSP Podcast Music Credit (episodes 1 - 18): RomanSenykMusic, Action TrailerNSP Podcast Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023NSP Shorts Music Credit: nomaBeats, You Are The Best!NSP Shorts Logo - L. Ayotte, 2023 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit granitestrategies.substack.com