In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Fontaine, a leader whose journey spans healthcare, government, and community building. From his early days working on a family farm in Manitoba to his current role as acting mayor of New Westminster and board member at Hockey Canada, Daniel’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and a relentless drive to make a difference.

Daniel opens up about the values that have guided him through diverse roles: the importance of public service, the power of advocacy, and the lessons learned from both setbacks and successes. He shares candid reflections on leading through crisis, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the qualities that define true leadership: listening, adaptability, and hope. We dive deep into the pressing issues facing long-term care in British Columbia, from the staggering waitlists to the opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Daniel and Heather discuss the untapped potential of internationally educated nurses, the need for streamlined credentialing, and the promise of dual credit programs to train the next generation of healthcare workers.

Throughout the conversation, Daniel’s optimism shines through. He believes in the power of community, the necessity of bold solutions, and the importance of giving everyone a voice. Whether he’s advocating for seniors, championing local hockey, or running for mayor, Daniel’s commitment to building a brighter, more inclusive future is unwavering. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical insights, and a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership, this episode is for you.

Chapter 1: Introduction & Daniel’s Background
0:00:00 – 0:01:33
Heather introduces Daniel Fontaine, his career highlights, and welcomes him to the podcast.

Chapter 2: Common Threads in Daniel’s Career
0:01:33 – 0:03:53
Discussion of advocacy and public service as the main themes throughout Daniel’s diverse career.

Chapter 3: Stepping into Municipal Leadership
0:03:53 – 0:06:52
Daniel clarifies his role as acting mayor and reflects on how his past experiences shape his approach to governance.

Chapter 4: Early Work Ethic & First Jobs
0:06:52 – 0:08:13
Daniel and Heather share stories about their first jobs and the values learned from early work experiences.

Chapter 5: Challenges & Opportunities in Long-Term Care
0:08:13 – 0:11:30
Daniel discusses the persistent challenges in long-term care, the impact of demographics, and the potential of technology and AI.

Chapter 6: Public Perceptions & Costs of Continuing Care
0:11:30 – 0:12:51
Addressing misconceptions about continuing care and the economic benefits of investing in it.

Chapter 7: Systemic Issues: Waitlists & Infrastructure
0:12:51 – 0:13:54
Discussion about long waitlists for care, costs of new beds, and the need for collaboration across sectors.

Chapter 8: Internationally Educated Nurses & Credentialing
0:13:54 – 0:17:20
The barriers faced by internationally trained healthcare professionals and the need for streamlined credentialing.

Chapter 9: Dual Credit Programs & Workforce Development
0:17:20 – 0:21:52
Exploring dual credit programs in high schools to encourage healthcare careers, especially for young women.

Chapter 10: Leadership in Crisis: Lessons from the Pandemic
0:21:52 – 0:24:47
Daniel’s experience leading through COVID-19, the importance of hope, listening, and steady leadership.

Chapter 11: Emergency Preparedness & Future Crises
0:24:47 – 0:27:03
The necessity of regularly testing emergency plans and being prepared for future pandemics or disasters.

Chapter 12: Priorities for New Westminster
0:27:03 – 0:29:21
Daniel’s priorities as acting mayor and his announcement to run for mayor, focusing on infrastructure and community needs.

Chapter 13: Learning from Setbacks
0:29:21 – 0:31:38
Daniel reflects on setbacks, particularly during the pandemic, and the growth that comes from overcoming challenges.

Chapter 14: National Sport Governance & Community Impact
0:31:38 – 0:33:47
How Daniel’s local experience informs his role on the Hockey Canada board and the value of community connection.

Chapter 15: Legacy, Democracy & Final Reflections
0:33:47 – 0:37:20
Daniel’s hopes for his legacy, the importance of listening and democracy, and closing remarks.