A man walks into civic life after four years of professional hockey and ends up becoming the longest-serving mayor in Saskatoon’s history. Donald J. Atchison joins us to unpack what that journey taught him about leadership under pressure, why “success” has to include employees and neighbours, and how the basics of city life still shape trust: safety, security, transport, affordable housing, and a sense of hope.

We also dig into the personal stories that don’t make the highlight reel. Donald shares a direct death threat at a public Remembrance Day gathering, what happened next with police, and how that kind of risk changes the way you move through crowds forever. From there we talk about faith in public life, including Saskatoon’s Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, the comfort community rituals can bring, and why public leadership often attracts strong reactions from every side.

Donald explains why he wrote his book, Building Bridges, to set the record straight about his time in office and to capture the city’s story in his own voice. We explore his belief in a practical partnership between government and the private sector, how Saskatoon chased growth, and why he prefers the word “newcomers” when talking about immigration and belonging, especially when highly skilled people are forced to start again because credentials go unrecognised.

If you care about civic politics, leadership lessons, public safety, and building stronger communities, you’ll get a lot from this conversation. Subscribe, share this with someone who cares about local leadership, and leave us a review with the one trait you think every mayor needs.

Music, lyrics, guitar and singing by Dr Ariel Rosita King

Teach me to live one day at a time
with courage love and a sense of pride.
Giving me the ability to love and accept myself
so I can go and give it to someone else.
Teach me to live one day at a time.....

The Business of Life
Dr Ariella (Ariel) Rosita King
Original Song, "Teach Me to Live one Day At A Time"
written, guitar and vocals by Dr. Ariel Rosita King

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