Purpose & Protection
By: Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Language: en
Categories: Education, Self Improvement, Business, Careers
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. Each episode explores the lived experiences of those who’ve served, those who support them, and those shaping the future of Canada’s security landscape. From the frontlines to the home front, you’ll hear stories of resilience, leadership and purpose. As the largest private employer of veterans in Nova Scotia and Canada’s only not-for-profit security provider, Commissionaires is committed to providing meaningful employment to Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian M...
Episodes
Breaking Barriers: A conversation with HCol Doug Ruck, KC
Jan 08, 2026In 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’ miss...
Duration: 00:43:29Civilian Service & Defence Leadership with HCol Corinne MacLellan
Dec 10, 2025In 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 st...
Duration: 00:38:19Honour, Country, Sacrifice: Capturing the Faces of Service with Trevor Godinho
Nov 05, 2025Acclaimed 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...
Duration: 00:35:17Changemaker, Justin Tyner
Oct 22, 2025Introducing 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 serv...
Duration: 00:12:05Empowering Service with Brigadier-General Mark Parsons
Oct 08, 2025Brigadier-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...
Duration: 00:35:55Canadian Defence with the Honourable Peter MacKay
Sep 17, 2025In 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 Res... Duration: 00:46:59Introducing: Purpose & Protection
Aug 29, 2025Commissionaires 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.