This week, we’re sharing the first part of a recast of Chris Thomson’s powerful conversation on Paper Napkin Wisdom with host Govindh Jayaraman.

In this second part of “Cancer Is a Journey,” Chris opens up about the next chapter of his cancer experience, from jaundice and hospitalization to finally receiving a confirmed diagnosis and beginning chemotherapy.

What unfolds is a story not just of treatment, but of mindset, gratitude, and the expansion of purpose. Chris reflects on reframing chemo as healing, finding meaning in mortality, and discovering an even greater reason to live: to be present for his family, his team, and now his first grandchild.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00:00 ] – Picking up where Part 1 left off: from feeling great to noticing symptoms

[00:01:43 ] – Turning yellow: the first signs of jaundice and the rush to the hospital

[00:03:00 ] – Emergency biopsy, stent surgery, and the fear of what’s next

[00:05:26 ] – Finally, a diagnosis: follicular lymphoma — and why Chris calls it “fantastic news”

[00:06:40 ] – The entrepreneur’s instinct: “Tell me what I need to do. Put me in, coach.”

[00:07:32 ] – Overcoming fear of chemo and reframing it as a healing process

[00:08:46 ] – “Chemo made me feel better.” How mindset and gratitude shaped recovery

[00:10:42 ] – Seeing chemo not as poison, but as partnership with medicine

[00:11:23 ] – Gratitude for Canada’s healthcare and perspective from others’ stories

[00:12:30 ] – The day of the banquet: from biopsy to public speaking in one day

[00:13:38 ] – What’s changed: health, priorities, and becoming a grandfather

[00:14:49 ] – “I want to have with my grandkids what I have with my kids.”

[00:16:41 ] – Turning lemons into lemonade — how cancer expanded his mission

[00:17:46 ] – Living beyond the physical: how loved ones continue through legacy

[00:19:59 ] – Staying in the moment and letting go of unrealistic expectations

[00:21:00 ] – A powerful goodbye: honoring his late friend Wendy Porter

[00:23:21 ] – Facing death daily — a Stoic approach to living fully

[00:26:29 ] – The ROI of a life of contribution: “Profit follows purpose.”

[00:27:46 ] – Climbing new mountains — redefining success after survival

[00:30:00 ] – Reaching out and finding connection: “We’re better together.”

[00:32:00 ] – Closing reflections: remembering who you are and being there for others

Resources Mentioned

• Princess Margaret Hospital (Toronto) – oncology and liver specialists
• Dr. Sapisochin, liver surgeon at PMH
• Wellspring – support network for cancer patients

Important Links

• Connect with Chris: Website | LinkedIn
• Learn more about the Student Works Management Program
• Apply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management Program
• Looking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job Opportunities
• Hear more Alumni Success Stories 

About the Show

Paper Napkin Wisdom is hosted by Govindh Jayaraman, exploring the life-changing lessons that leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries live by, one napkin at a time.

The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.