Cross Border Interviews

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we are sitting down with Strathcona County Councillor Robert Parks.

Strathcona County, located in the heart of Alberta, is an energetic and thriving community. A leader in North America’s petroleum industry and a champion for advancing diverse agricultural business, and who uses that energy to power a new tomorrow.

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality, attracting people of all ages and cultures, and works cooperatively with both urban and rural residents to govern as a single entity.

Strathcona County is a welcoming place to live and attracts people of all ages, cultures and walks of life to join them.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://www.strathcona.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode we chat with District of Mackenzie Councillor Jesse Wright 

Mackenzie is a friendly community of about 3,700 residents, and was built in the 1960's during the construction of the W.A.C. Bennet Dam. The dam flooded the region creating the Williston Lake Reservoir, beside which the community was built.

In 1965, the clearing of land began for the main townsite. British Columbia Forest Products built a pulp mill and two sawmills to begin developing the vast forest resources in the area. The first families settled in Mackenzie in June of 1966. The community was developed as an “instant town” and was planned and designed as a walkable compact community,

MacKenzie enjoys some of the best municipal water in BC, a very low crime rate, low taxes, low real estate prices and high paying jobs in growing natural resource industries in the area. 

This makes Mackenzie a great place to visit, get a start in life, buy a home, raise a family, or just enjoy being able to afford to travel and do what you like.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://districtofmackenzie.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode we chat with Bonnyville Councillor Kayla Blanchette
Bonnyville is a great place to work, play and raise a family. It provides the perfect mix of community services through health, educational, recreation and cultural facilities.

The economy is growing and expanding faster than the provincial average creating employment opportunities in construction, oil and gas, as well as retail sales. As a major service area, the Town serves more than 10,000 people. 

Bonnyville is the HUB for the oil and gas industry with over 60 national and international companies setting up head offices within the Town. 

Surrounded by lakes and majestic boreal forest, Bonnyville offers visitors and locals a treasure trove of natural wonders.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://town.bonnyville.ab.ca/ 

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we chat with Innisfail Councillor Janice Wing.

Considering all that the Town of Innisfail has to offer, it’s difficult to think of reasons not to relocate here. 

Conveniently situated on the Calgary-Edmonton Corridor, Innisfail is a thriving mid-sized community in what some may say is the perfect location. It’s just 15 minutes south of Red Deer, and an hour north of Calgary, meaning whatever few amenities they don’t have are available just a short drive in either direction. 

They’ve got some of the most visited tourist destinations in all of Central Alberta. But that’s just a start. There’s plenty more to this town of about 8,000. 

And it’s all well worth exploring.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://innisfail.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

***************************************************

Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode we chat with Whitecourt Mayor Tom Pickard
Whitecourt is surrounded by miles of forested lands, raging and meandering rivers, and so much in between. 

Sledding in the Snowmobile Capital of Alberta, jet boat races on the Athabasca River, tubing on the McLeod River, camping at Carson Pegasus Provincial Park, or stay close to all the action at Brooke's Creek, spend a day at Rotary Park to take in the river slides, tour the trail system leading to the river spurs, beach volleyball, off-leash dog park; take a breath - there's more. 

A challenging golf course? Cross-country skiing? Hunting? Events? It's all here.
 A welcoming and enthusiastic community, great recreation, and exciting tourism opportunities, and they are only 90 minutes from Edmonton

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://www.whitecourt.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

***************************************************

Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we chat with Wetaskiwin Councillor Gabrielle Blatz.

Wetaskiwin, a city that blends small-town vibes with unique adventures. 

Whether you're exploring their rich history at world-class museums, enjoying the great outdoors on scenic trails, or savouring local flavours at unique restaurants, there's something in Wetaskiwin for everyone. 

Located just 35 minutes south of the Edmonton International Airport, Wetaskiwin is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

http://wetaskiwin.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode we chat with Parksville Councillor Joel Grenz. 

If you want to relax along the peaceful coastline, Parksville can be an ecapist’s paradise. Often featured as one of the premier locations to be visited in Vancouver Island for young families, Parkville’s natural, laid back culture, along with its easy accessibility and central locations will make you want to come back again and again.

Parksville enjoys one of the finest climates in all Canada. 

There are six provincial parks located within thirty minutes drive for easy and moderate walking. A popular destination spot for tourists during the summer, Parksville’s spectacular views of the Strait of Georgia and the Vancouver Island Mountain Range, capped with snow even on a hot summer beach day, only adds to this quiet community's charm.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://www.parksville.ca/,

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we chat with District of Squamish Councillor John French
Located at the northern tip of a glacially etched fjord on the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by a spectacular mountain backdrop and nestled within a temperate rainforest, Squamish is recognized worldwide for its recreation, culture and incredible mountain lifestyle.  

Squamish is ideally situated on the scenic Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver, British Columbia's largest city and Whistler, a four-season mountain resort consistently ranked the number one ski resort in North America.

A strong, vibrant and healthy community, Squamish is envied for its wide range of outdoor recreational activities. World-class trails, rock climbing parks, consistent wind patterns, a relatively mild year-round climate, a healthy wildlife population, and proximity to ocean, mountains and rivers make Squamish a sought-after destination for mountain bikers, hikers, rock climbers, kite and wind surfers, kayakers, ski tourers, wildlife viewers and backcountry enthusiasts alike.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://squamish.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

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Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we chat with Coalhurst Deputy Mayor Deborah Florence.
In 2013, Coalhurst celebrated its Centennial, and in 2025, it will mark 30 years since being reincorporated as a Town. 

In 2035, the Town will honour the 100th anniversary of the Imperial Mine explosion and the lives of those who were lost and affected by the great tragedy. 

Coalhurst invites everyone from coast to coast to coast to learn more about their community and its deep history – and about the great people who have helped shape it over the last century – and what they're doing to honour their past while also looking forward to a bright future of continued growth and sustainability.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

https://coalhurst.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

***************************************************

Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025

Welcome to Cross Border Interviews, the show where we dive into the insights of municipal political leaders from across Canada.

Our mission is to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who, day in and day out, work around the council table to shape the communities we call home. 

For today’s episode, we chat with Silverton Councillor Leah Main
With a population of nearly 195 people, Silverton is British Columbia's second smallest municipality. Enjoy our parks and campground, shops, gallery, and museum.
Silverton Gallery and the Historical Interpretive Centre are located in the Municipal Block, in the heart of town.

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Learn More About Today's Community: 

http://silverton.ca/

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Support The Show Today: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/support-the-show

Join The Show: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/be-part-of-the-show 

***************************************************

Listen To The Show: 

Apple: https://apple.co/3XwwXIv

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cross-border-interviews

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/crossborderinterviewswithchrisbrown

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Follow Us On Social Media: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossborderpodcast/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@crossborderpodcast 

Blusky: https://bsky.app/profile/crossbordernetwork.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossBorderInterviews/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crossborderinterviews/ 

Website: https://www.crossborderinterviews.ca/

Cross Border Interview is Part of the Cross Border Network

© 2025