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:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security, and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to Purpose & Protection for more conversations on service, security and leadership.
Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia
Produced by Podstarter
Become 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.