From Childhood Adversity to "Good Shepherd" Leadership with Peter Bissonnette
Tue Sep 02 2025
In this episode, Adam welcomes Peter Bissonnette, former President of Shaw Communications and author of 'Count On Me: My Life Lessons and Legacy as a Former President of Shaw Communications.' Peter shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to leading a multi-billion dollar family business. Despite facing emotional hardships and growing up in humble beginnings, Peter developed an unwavering faith in himself and others. This faith, coupled with life lessons, fueled his rise in the corporate world without succumbing to ruthless business practices.
The conversation covers the value of mentorship, the importance of a strong work ethic, and the philosophy of being a 'Good Shepherd' in leadership. Peter also touches on the importance of creating lasting legacies and the role of family trusts in supporting future generations. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone questioning their ability to lead or overcome past wounds.
00:00 Introduction to Peter Bissonnette's Journey
02:33 Early Life and Family Struggles
05:14 Boarding School Experiences
09:25 Finding Strength and Mentors
15:09 Career Beginnings and Mentorship
19:55 Transition to Family Businesses
31:55 The Influence of JR and Family Values
34:00 Scaling the Business and Maintaining Values
36:08 Leadership and Team Dynamics
38:50 Navigating Family and Business Challenges
47:33 Legacy and Generational Trust
52:05 Writing the Memoir: Count on Me
57:28 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Buy Peter's book, "Count On Me: My Life, Lessons, and Legacy as a Former President of Shaw Communications"n
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In this episode, Adam welcomes Peter Bissonnette, former President of Shaw Communications and author of 'Count On Me: My Life Lessons and Legacy as a Former President of Shaw Communications.' Peter shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to leading a multi-billion dollar family business. Despite facing emotional hardships and growing up in humble beginnings, Peter developed an unwavering faith in himself and others. This faith, coupled with life lessons, fueled his rise in the corporate world without succumbing to ruthless business practices. The conversation covers the value of mentorship, the importance of a strong work ethic, and the philosophy of being a 'Good Shepherd' in leadership. Peter also touches on the importance of creating lasting legacies and the role of family trusts in supporting future generations. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone questioning their ability to lead or overcome past wounds. 00:00 Introduction to Peter Bissonnette's Journey 02:33 Early Life and Family Struggles 05:14 Boarding School Experiences 09:25 Finding Strength and Mentors 15:09 Career Beginnings and Mentorship 19:55 Transition to Family Businesses 31:55 The Influence of JR and Family Values 34:00 Scaling the Business and Maintaining Values 36:08 Leadership and Team Dynamics 38:50 Navigating Family and Business Challenges 47:33 Legacy and Generational Trust 52:05 Writing the Memoir: Count on Me 57:28 Final Thoughts and Reflections Buy Peter's book, "Count On Me: My Life, Lessons, and Legacy as a Former President of Shaw Communications"n