Gravel Roads and Great Escapes

Meet Mandy Eve-BarnettMandy is a multi-genre author, writing advocate, and enthusiastic road tripper who finds inspiration down every gravel road. With ten books published and more in the works, she brings a passion for storytelling to everything she does—from children’s tales to adult fiction, and even non-fiction projects through her freelance writing work. When she’s not writing, Mandy’s exploring Alberta and beyond, discovering hidden gems, attending literary events, and championing local writing communities. Her love of adventure and creativity shines through in this episode as she shares the joy of wandering off the beaten path—both literally and in her writing life.Find out more about Mandy here!

Moonlight, Flowers & Local Flavours: Brianna Kumpula of Bar OA FarmsWhat do sturgeon caviar, cut flowers, and the full moon have in common? A lot more than you’d think.In this episode, Jackie sits down with Brianna Kumpula—community builder, regenerative flower farmer, and founder of Bar OA Farms—to dig into the story behind her nationally recognized Moon Dinners. These immersive, on-farm culinary experiences celebrate local producers, lunar cycles, and Alberta’s vibrant food scene.Brianna shares how her passion for flowers grew from a wedding garden to a thriving business that connects people to the land, local chefs, and each other. From forced winter tulips to edible blooms and herbal bath salts, Bar OA Farms is blooming with innovation and intention.You’ll hear about:Why a moon-themed dinner became a game-changing tourism experienceThe surprising science of flowers, farming, and lunar plantingHow Alberta chefs and producers are building powerful partnershipsThe grit and joy behind flower farming—and advice for aspiring growersTo learn more or get your hands on some of those tulips, visit baroafarms.com.