What happens when you spend a year asking curious questions about how the world really works?

In this special milestone episode, Bryndis Whitson steps out from behind the mic to reflect on the first 30 episodes of Zebras to Apples. From lost microphones and recording mishaps to unforgettable stories about airplanes, grocery stores, fish logistics, concerts, political campaigns, sustainability, security, and everything in between, this episode is a candid, heartfelt look at why these stories matter, what connects them, and how supply chain logistics shows up everywhere, whether we notice it or not.

Bryndis’ Big Takeaways from 30 Episodes:

• Supply chain is everywhere — grocery stores, concerts, elections, emergencies, and everyday life
• Careers are rarely linear — skills travel across industries in surprising ways
• Economic development and supply chain are interlinked 
• Logistics is about people, trust, and relationships as much as processes
• Adaptability matters more than perfection
• Behind every smooth experience is a lot of invisible coordination
• Curiosity opens doors, and stories connect us all

Resources discussed in this episode:

• “Connecting the Dots” – Steve Jobs 
• Astronomic Audio (podcast production)

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

What does supply chain look like when there are no street addresses, limited cell service, and groceries travel thousands of kilometers? Bryndis Whitson sits down with Christina Monroe to explore the realities of living in Northern Canada, from freight and food security to shipping, travel, and planning far ahead. 

The conversation spans what it takes to move goods, people, and services across vast distances with limited infrastructure. From coordinating IKEA orders and freight consolidation to navigating cell service dead zones, Christina shares practical examples of how logistics shapes daily life in the North.

The conversation also touches on logistics people rarely think about, including veterinary access, emergency preparedness, shipping without physical addresses, and why durable containers are essential for northern freight. Christina’s stories highlight how planning, adaptability, and community cooperation are key to making life work in remote regions.

About Christina Monroe

Christina Monroe has lived and worked in the Northwest Territories for over 27 years and brings deep, lived experience of what it means to navigate life in northern, rural, and remote communities. With a background that spans childcare, community work, advocacy, and political organizing, Christina has firsthand insight into the logistics of food systems, transportation, healthcare access, emergency preparedness, and daily life in the North.

Known for her practical mindset and sharp observations, Christina understands how essential it is to draw on the resilience, adaptability, and the creative problem-solving that northern communities rely on every day.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Drumbeat Expediting
• Northwestel - a subsidiary of Bell
• Cortex podcast by CPG Gray and Myke Hurley

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

In this heartwarming episode, Bryndis sits down with Lorne Fleming, whose career journey spans the Royal Canadian Air Force, Calgary Transit, and the very beginnings of Calgary’s LRT system. After leaving the military, Lorne wanted to continue in a role that focused on serving, so he found his way into transit, where he began as a trolley and bus driver. His understanding of city routes, complex transit technology, and community needs positioned him perfectly for the next chapter: training new operators.

Lorne’s stories illuminate the often unseen logistics and human effort behind a system millions now rely on. He shares vivid stories of trolleybus operations, the challenges of overhead wire systems, and the problem solving required to navigate a growing city. His anecdotes include everything from sparking wires in winter hoarfrost to the delicate dance of avoiding power overloads on steep hills. As Calgary prepared for the arrival of the LRT, a serendipitous meeting at a bus rodeo led Lorne and his colleague Gene into becoming Calgary’s first LRT trainers. 

This episode is more than transit history; it’s a celebration of humour, service, learning, collaboration, and the pride of building something that shaped an entire city for decades. 

About Lorne Fleming

Lorne Fleming is a former Royal Canadian Air Force member and longtime Calgary Transit professional. Over more than 30 years, he worked as a bus and trolley operator, a training officer, and one of Calgary’s first LRT trainers. Lorne helped design and deliver the city’s original LRT training program and collaborated closely with Edmonton Transit during the system’s development. His contributions helped shape transit operations during one of Calgary’s most transformative periods. Lorne was honoured by Edmonton Transit as an Honorary LRT Training Officer and remains a source of historical insight into Western Canada’s transit evolution.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples

In this episode of Zebras to Apples, Bryndis welcomes political professional, advocate, and community-builder Anna Murphy to uncover the surprising parallels between politics and logistics. From managing leader schedules to coordinating multiday provincial tours, Anna reveals how political offices operate like high-stakes logistics hubs. Every movement, including flights, vehicles, venues, speaking notes, security protocols, must be coordinated with careful precision and flexibility.

Anna shares her journey from fashion retail to political work, explaining how service, empathy, and attention to detail shaped her approach to staffing leaders such as Former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and Saskatchewan Opposition Leader Carla Beck. She explains the intricacies involved in travel coordination, stakeholder management, reading political climates, and preparing for “known unknowns,” from last-minute emergencies to natural disasters that force a full schedule pivot. Her stories give listeners a rare look behind the curtain at the people who quietly keep democracy moving. 

Together, Bryndis and Anna explore the personal side of political staffing: teamwork under pressure, building trust, supporting leaders with both structure and intuition, and navigating safety, security, and real-time decision-making. This episode offers a thoughtful insider’s perspective for anyone curious about politics, logistics, or service-driven careers.

About Anna Murphy

Anna Murphy is a nationally recognized advocate and political professional dedicated to building inclusive, connected communities across Calgary and Canada. Most recently, she served as Executive Assistant and Tour Officer to Alberta’s Leader of the Official Opposition, Hon. Rachel Notley, where she coordinated schedules, travel, events, and on-the-ground logistics. Her work also supported meaningful public initiatives, including the Transgender Day of Remembrance Member Statement and the first official Transgender Day of Visibility reception at the Legislature.

Beyond politics, Anna is a committed community leader. She chairs the City of Calgary’s Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee, serves on the Social Wellbeing Advisory Committee, and volunteers with organizations such as the Calgary Stampede, Calgary Arts Academy, and the Women’s Centre. Recognized as one of Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, and a recipient of both the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal and the Calgary Stampede Western Trailblazer Buckle, Anna brings passion, precision, and purpose to every space she serves.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

Contact Anna Murphy: 

• Linkedin: Anna Murphy
  
  

On this episode of Zebras to Apples, host Bryndis Whitson is joined by Jen Borno, an experienced project manager whose career spans forecasting, IT systems, software development, corporate services, and supply chain logistics. Jen shares how she navigated industries by bringing a problem-solving mindset to every role, whether through optimizing contracts, launching disability systems, or leading cross-functional teams.

This episode includes plenty of fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from high-stakes projects, such as negotiating international contracts and bridging gaps between siloed departments. Jen explains why project management is really about identifying needs, managing change, and keeping the bigger picture in focus, especially during implementation and integration. She also shares tips for new project managers and reflects on the personal values that guide her leadership style.

About Jen Borno

Jennifer Borno is a seasoned project management professional known for her versatility. With a background that includes roles in major oil and gas corporations, IT consulting, and supply chain leadership, Jen specializes in turning complex problems into coordinated plans. She’s passionate about problem-solving, people-centered leadership, and driving success through strategic alignment. Jen is also deeply committed to authenticity, creativity, and lifelong learning: values that she brings to every team and project she leads.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Microsoft Project – Timeline and Task Management Software
• SAP Business Suite – Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System
• ADP Workforce Now – Payroll and HR Software for Enterprise Integration
• MBTI® (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) – Personality Profiling for Team and Leadership Insight
• Steve Jobs’ “Connecting the Dots” – Stanford Commencement Speech (2005)
  
  

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

Contact Jen Borno: 

• LinkedIn: Jen Borno
  
  

Cindy Clark, President of Women in Supply Chain (WISC), joins us on the show to outline how supply chain touches almost everything we do.

She traces her path from the automotive and heavy-duty parts world to running her own repair shop, and shares how the profession grew up alongside her, especially as big manufacturers leaned into new tech. Along the way, Cindy shows why logistics, procurement, and clear data aren’t just buzzwords: they’re how we keep things moving safely and efficiently.

We also wander into some fascinating corners of the field, like why hay quality matters to farmers and animal health, how small and mid-sized businesses can start adopting AI, and where governments and companies can actually work better together. Her simple and powerful take on it all is that supply chain isn’t just trucks and warehouses; it’s the heartbeat of every industry.

With humour, honesty, and plenty of real-world examples, Cindy connects policy, sustainability, and technology in a way that invites all of us to stay curious, stay informed, and be ready for change.

About Cindy Clark

Cindy Clark is the President of Women in Supply Chain (WISC) and a lifelong advocate for elevating awareness of supply chain’s impact across industries. With a professional background spanning automotive parts, heavy-duty repair, and dealership management, Cindy has witnessed the evolution of logistics first-hand, from manual systems to technology-driven operations.

Cindy is passionate about supporting women’s advancement in traditionally male-dominated fields, promoting education in AI and digital transformation, and encouraging intergenerational collaboration in business. Her experience bridges entrepreneurship, public-sector engagement, and mentorship, making her a voice for innovation and inclusivity in supply chain and logistics.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

Contact Cindy Clark: 

• Website: Women in Supply Chain Association
• LinkedIn: Women in Supply Chain Association
• Linkedin: Cindy Clark
  
  

In today's conversation, Adela Parilla pulls back the curtain on how big contracts really get done and why smart negotiation is more about empathy than edge. From cranes and rental fleets to EPC mega-deals, Adela shows how clear strategy, safety, seasonality, and long-term risk trump a price-only mindset and why “lowest price” is a trap when factors like total risk, uptime, and human exposure are on the line. 

Adela then demystifies negotiation. She frames deals as reputation-building, trust-first problem solving that’s aimed at durable, executable contracts rather than short-term “wins” for one side or another. We dig into supplier relationships during high-stakes moments, as well as how women can advocate for themselves (especially in salary and promotion negotiations) without apology or hesitation.

About Adela Parilla

Adela Parilla is a lawyer by training who pivoted into supply chain, first in category management and later as a Strategic Sourcing Senior Consultant focused on complex EPC contracts. Her legal background sharpened her eye for contract risk and accelerated deal cycles, while her practical mindset kept negotiation strategies grounded in the realities of both day-to-day work and long-term business needs.

A passionate negotiator and advocate, Adela blends classical rhetoric with practical sourcing tactics to build trust-based agreements. She’s especially committed to helping women make confident asks by documenting their value and impact, knowing the market, and asking for what they’re worth as employees, not as people.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn
  
  

Contact Adela Parilla: 

• Linkedin: Adela Parilla
  
  

In this conversation, host Bryndis Whitson sits down with Jonathan Moser to demystify the everyday materials we rarely think about: plastics, cement, and concrete. They talk about the massive supply chains that bring them to life, from Alberta’s natural‑gas liquids and hydrocarbon “crackers” to the railcars that ship plastic pellets to manufacturers. Jonathan also shares stories from his time at Dow Chemical Canada, including the logistics and materials technology behind the Vancouver 2010 Olympic & Paralympic Games.

Next, Jonathan shares his expertise on building materials: how limestone becomes clinker in 2,000°C kilns (and what clinker is), why that big preheater tower matters, and the crucial difference between cement (the flour) and concrete (the cake batter). Jonathan walks through low‑carbon fuels in kilns, carbon‑capture pilots, and the growing role of supplementary cementitious materials (fly ash, clays, glass) and reused aggregates (recycled concrete, reclaimed asphalt). Along the way, the conversation touches on site logistics, environmentally-friendly technology,  and community engagement, all of which keeps major facilities thriving in Western Canada.

About Jonathan Moser

Born in Regina and raised in Kamloops, Jonathan Moser studied at UBC and spent a decade in Ottawa politics and consulting, with roles touching the Prime Minister’s Office and the federal Health Minister. After relocating to Alberta, he joined Dow Chemical Canada in corporate communications and stakeholder/government relations, supporting hydrocarbons and ESG initiatives.

He then spent nearly a decade in building materials with Lafarge (now known as Amrize) leading environment and public‑affairs work across Canada, including low‑carbon kiln fuels, net‑zero planning, and community engagement. Since 2021, he has run Moser Public Affairs, advising on business development, communications, and stakeholder strategy.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Alberta Incremental Ethane Extraction Program (IEEP) guidelines (Gov. of Alberta)
• Dow x Vancouver 2010 — Insulation & heat‑transfer fluids announcement
• Linde–Dow clean hydrogen partnership (Fort Saskatchewan Path2Zero)
• NOVA Chemicals — Joffre manufacturing complex
• Exshaw cement plant modernization overview (Aecon project page)
• Heidelberg Materials — Edmonton CCUS project

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn
  
  

Contact Jonathan Moser:

• Website - Moser Public Affairs
• Linkedin - Jonathan Moser
  
  

This special compilation pulls standout answers to one big question we ask on the show: “What advice would you give to someone entering supply chain and logistics, or pivoting their career?” Instead of one guest, you’ll hear a fast-moving montage of insights from across our first 21 episodes. It’s a mix of frontline wisdom, leadership perspective, and practical next steps, curated to help you move smarter, build trust, and chart a path that fits your values.

Across the highlights, themes emerge that anyone can use: start with hands-on experience and learn how things really work, stay adaptable by carrying your skills across industries, and always approach the work as a service built on trust. Guests emphasize that resilience and a willingness to make mistakes fuel long-term growth, while confidence and self-awareness help you align with the right opportunities. Whether it’s testing an idea before launching, prioritizing safety, or committing to lifelong learning, these short lessons add up to a powerful playbook for anyone building a meaningful career in logistics or beyond.

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn: Zebras to Apples
  
  

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In this episode of Zebras to Apples, host Bryndis Whitson talks with Bridget Rathwell, a culinary entrepreneur who turned her lifelong love of cooking into several successful food ventures. Growing up in a family where food and hospitality were central, Bridget learned the importance of homemade, nourishing meals, and now shares the traditions taught to her by her mother through her meal-prep service and Indian cooking classes.  

Bridget began with a bakery that offered homemade desserts, coffee, and daily take-home dinners, then, as demand grew, she expanded into catering and created a line of jarred curry/simmer sauces. She sold at farmers' markets and through retail stores. These operations required careful logistics. She and Bryndis discuss the intricacies of sourcing quality spices free of radiation treatment from Montreal, managing commercial kitchen production, maintaining food freshness, and transporting hot meals. Today, Bridget focuses on meal prep and the Indian cooking classes that happen right in client homes. She tailors menus to dietary needs such as gluten-free, keto, or low-carb. Her passion is for homemade, wholesome meals, which her husband, who is her business partner, and children, her taste testers, help make come true for a real family business.   

About Bridget Rathwell:

Bridget’s whole life seemed to have been centered around the kitchen; the good mornings, tea times, coffees, discussions, celebrations, events, and all the grace that came with those things. All of these memories were surrounded by beautiful food and lots of laughter.

Her parents are Anglo-Indians from Pakistan. They had a glorious love for food and took great pride in their family. She has a great respect for her Mom and Dad, and every time she cooks, she pays tribute to them. Her Mom has always been her greatest teacher and still gives Bridget inspiration for her cooking. Her Mom has taught her to understand the blending and balancing of spices and how to achieve beautiful flavours.

Bridget held on to the wisdom of what she learned from her Mom so she could bring the love and care of Indian cooking into other homes. All of the curry sauces and dishes that she makes are traditional dishes that she’s been taught, just as her beautiful mother was taught. 

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Contact Bryndis Whitson: 

• Website: ZebrasToApples.com 
• Instagram: @ZebrasToApples
• LinkedIn
  
  

Contact Bridget Rathwell:

• Website: TheCurryQueen.com
• Instagram: @bridgetsthecurryqueen