Shows
This MorningEdmonton's first-ever 'WinterCity Book Flood' happens tonight (Nov 21)Guests: Madeleine Stout, WinterCity Planner
-- & --
Brandi Morpurgo, the owner of Daisy Chain Book Co.
https://wintercityedmonton.ca/event/book-flood/
2025-11-2109 min
The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 68: The Black Bookshelf ProjectThis was a fun one!
Forgive us the wild peals of laughter and background noises as we recorded this podcast episode at my kitchen table after a leisurely brunch. Rachel Bergeron and Justine Mah spearheaded The Black Bookshelf Project, a collaborative initiative that provides BIPOC books for kids on a black bookshelf with coloring sheets, additional resources, and Indigenous affirmation cards for children to enjoy. Rachel and Justine do not hold back on why these stories are important, and why they believe these bookshelves will open conversations and generate an appreciation for perspectives and experiences from other...
2023-06-0134 min
The Connector Next Door with Lisa GareauBrandi Morpurgo, Book Store Owner, Curious Curator, and Natural ConnectorSend us a textBrandi Morpurgo is the co-owner of Daisy Chain Book Co., and she runs two bookstores in Edmonton and Beaumont, Alberta and has worked hard to create a vibrant community of readers.In a previous life she was a Social Worker and Foster Parent who had the wild idea to start Alberta’s first book truck - a bookshop on wheels.That wild adventure took her all through central Alberta and gained attention around the world.Brandi reads a lot, delights in the calm task of doing a pu...
2023-04-2741 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 67: Five, 5 & 5I have received so many questions, and I thought of a fun way to answer some of them. I'm calling it a Five, 5 and 5: 5 books that changed me, 5 small biz bits, and 5 random things about me. Hope they are fun and insightful!
5 Books:
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Don't Keep Your Day Job by Cathy Heller
The Bible
5 Small Biz Bits:
- Social M...
2023-03-2424 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 66: Book DumpHello, Friend. Would you believe that at the end of last month I achieved my goal of getting 4 days off IN A ROW?? Don't go into business for yourself if you want to have oodles of spare time.
So, after a spell away from the microphone I am here to present a smattering of some of the books I have read since we last talked. Some great, some blah, and I am here to share the truth about them all. A bookstore owner who doesn't read a wide range of titles can't be trusted to make solid...
2023-03-1141 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 65: Elise is Back With More Scary Books!One of our most popular Guests from the past year was Elise Eichmuller (Episode 44), a court reporter by day and an active bookstagrammer and reader in her spare time. She may read dark & twisty tales, but she is just the most sunshiney and giggly soul. To know Elise is to love her. She is instrumental in keeping the #yegbookstagrammer group together and intentionally creates friendships in the bookish social media world. She has created a brilliant balance - enjoy this episode and by all means, go to her Instagram and FOLLOW her!
*heads up, we don't censor...
2022-12-151h 12The Bookshop ChroniclesMini Episode: I’m Still Here!The world of Daisy Chain Book Co. has grown by about 1600 square feet.
We opened our second indie bookstore in Beaumont, Alberta in July, 2022 and I am still in an exhausted state of disbelief. Don't let them tell you it's impossible, put your big girl panties on and show 'em how it's done.
In this mini episode, I am giving you a wave from underneath the pile of chaos and a shout-out of gratitude for our incredible bookish community.
Get out there and let your badassery shine. And have a Merry Christmas too.
2022-12-1308 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 64: Business Bar Questions AnsweredWhen you are starting out in business, there are SO many hurdles, questions, and fears. Today, I am answering three questions I get asked regularly.
1. How do I know if being in a Market is the best way to start my business?
2. What is the difference between a Hobby and a Business?
3. How do I know where to start when it comes to social media/branding and content creation?
I certainly do not have it all figured out and I mess up nearly every day, so please know that I am...
2022-06-1621 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 63: May Reading Wrap-UpSo much going on around here! Please enjoy this list of titles that I have read recently - many of them I have liked, even LOVED, and some I did not enjoy at all. Sigh. Thus is the reading life, right?
Books Discussed:
The End of Men by Christina Sweeney-Baird
Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins Reid
A Rip Through Time by Kelley Armstrong
I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Call Me By Your Name b...
2022-06-0139 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 62: When Books Can Surprise You with Haylee FreakeWhen we started with the booktruck and then opened a brick & mortar bookstore, we hoped that we would build a community of readers. Actually, I was a little obsessed with the idea. Imagine my delight when Haylee Freake discovered our store and decided this was IT for her. She has been in our Book Club from day one, and she is also an active member of Write Night, our creative night for budding authors. Haylee dives into reading with the passion that must make her Newfoundland parents proud, since they surrounded her with books and the encouragement to read...
2022-05-061h 04The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 61: Writing & Reading Inspiration from Stella TelleriaWhen you get a chance to speak with someone who is passionate about the process of writing a book and getting it into the hands of readers, you pay attention. When that same person also boldly shares her well-crafted book reviews on her very own YouTube channel, you pay extra close attention. So, basically, this episode is one you don't want to miss. Stella Telleria is a Local Author of the book Across the Wire. Her second book will be out shortly. She is actively dedicated to good books, both the reading and writing of them and if you're...
2022-03-091h 06The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 60: 13 BooksIt's already the middle of February and I have read 13 books for the year, so I thought I'd break them down for you and help you add a couple more to your TBR. Happy Reading!
Books Discussed:
The Nix by Nathan Hill
Know My Name by Chanel Miller
The Summer Sail by Wendy Francis
The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The City Baker's Guide to Country Living by...
2022-02-1430 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 59: Books Can Open Your World with Kim TannerReading may be an isolated activity, but like so many of us, we long for friendships with people that share our love of books and stories. Where do we find them? Kim Tanner is a teacher, and a dedicated reader who was determined to establish her own reading community of Kindred Spirits through #bookstagram. Kim has been a member of our Petal Club community and established a strong connection to our readers. Her desire to read widely and have solid friendships is something she has in common with SO many of us - I hope you enjoy her story...
2022-01-191h 06The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 58: Having Tennessee Williams at Your Table with Beth HardingWe have some of the best Readers ever in our little Daisy Chain Book Co. community. Beth Harding is one of them. Beth is a testament to perseverance, grit, and passion. She and I first met when she visited the booktruck at the beginning of my travels, and we hung out, chatting and exchanging stories of service and inspiration cementing us as Kindred Spirits. Beth works as a communication manager for a non-profit, is one of our Petal Club's original members, and she is dedicated to service in parenting, business, and she's one of the all-time best huggers. She...
2022-01-111h 04The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 57: Books as a Lifeline & the Value of Community with Melissa AhmedEarlier this year, I introduced you to Melissa Ahmed. Your response to that conversation was outstanding. It was the most shared and downloaded episode of our podcast EVER, and I received the most DMs about it. Melissa's ability to say what's on her mind and on her heart in a bold, refreshing "I don't care" attitude is what we need.
Once again, please listen to this episode and then SHARE IT. This conversation with Melissa Ahmed is too good not to share. She is an avid reader, a Muslim mother of 2 young girls, a Homeschooling teacher, and a...
2022-01-021h 19The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 56: Breaking the Tape - DCBC FirstsAt Daisy Chain Book Co., we are led by creativity, passion and curiosity. That means finding new ways to serve our reading community as we tell our own story in the marketplace. For a firstborn like myself, that means doing what no one else is doing because copying others is just not how we roll. It is not boastful or cocky to recognize areas of achievement and pat yourself on the back. I can say these things confidently because I did not do any of it alone. I have the most incredible team and the dedicated support of our...
2021-12-1415 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 55: DCBC Community, Meet Karen Irwin.I think I need to take a sec and brag a little on our incredible community at Daisy Chain Book Co. We are so fortunate to have gathered some of the most stimulating and diverse readers in the area. They encourage me to read outside my comfort zone, they remind me why it is so special to be a Reader, and they excite me with moments of togetherness that have been so vital during a time when the world has gotten more used to staying apart.
In the bookstore, we run Book Clubs that meet in person...
2021-12-071h 06The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 54: DCBC Community, Meet Rachelle LeeOne of our mantras at Daisy Chain Book Co. is "Creating a Community of Readers". I am passionate about humans connecting over books, stories, and our diverse experience with both. In today's episode, I am pleased to share a special person in our DCBC community with you. Rachelle Lee is an Electrical Engineering student and a reader of all things Fantasy and Imagination. She reads broadly, she loves movies, and she truly appreciates a fun story in any format. We have loved having her be a part of our Book Club which she calls her "favorite day of the...
2021-11-301h 11The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 53: Small Biz & Podcast Buddy, Rachel WentworthBooks are great. Of course they are. But the business side of running a bookshop has been a wild ride, and like all businesses, we have been impacted by a pandemic in ways we couldn't have imagined.
In 2019 I was a Guest on a podcast called "Keeping Shop: A Brick and Mortar Podcast" hosted by Rachel Wentworth. We had such a fun conversation, and I decided it was time to rekindle this connection. During what Rachel calls "the before time", we talked about customer connections and serving your people well. Now that we are in a pandemic...
2021-11-2459 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 52: October Reads For NovemberWell, hello again! It's been a crazy month at the bookstore, but I am back again for another installment of "What Has Brandi Been Reading?". I read 11 books in October and I am here to break them all down for you, the hits and the misses. If you'd like to find my up-to-date reviews on the books as I go, please become a Friend on Goodreads!
Today's episode is brought to you by THE PETAL CLUB, a monthly book subscription through Daisy Chain Book Co. - a surprise book wrapped and delivered to you each m...
2021-11-0541 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 51: Meet My Friend, Melissa AhmedHere's what I want you to do. You trust me, right? I'm not going to ask to to dance in the street singing New Kids in The Block in your underwear, come on.
I want you to listen to this episode and then SHARE IT. This conversation with Melissa Ahmed is too good not to share. She is an avid reader, mother of 2 young girls, a Homeschooling teacher, and advocate for social justice, a feminist who seeks to intelligently raise the bar for women, and a Muslim. She was homeless for a period of time in her...
2021-09-291h 09The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 50: Stories For Your Ears with Jenna Clark of Libro.fmDaisy Chain Book Co. has had so many firsts.
Like looking back through our bookshop baby book in which we record milestones and firsts, here is one I am super proud of: in Edmonton, we were the first bookstore that partnered with Libro.fm as an audiobook provider for our Readers. From Day One I have been amazed at how this company supports independent bookstores and provides outstanding customer service, all the while making it possible for us to fit books into our very active lives.
Today it's my pleasure to share a c...
2021-09-1553 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 49: Just BooksIt's time to talk books, no bookstore or booktruck business, let's just chat about what I've been reading lately, shall we?
Books Discussed:
The Shadow Sister
The Plot
The Dutch Wife
All The Beautiful Lies
84, Charing Cross Rd.
Her Every Fear
Before She Knew Him
The Girl in His Shadow
The Girl With a Clock For a Heart
Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC...
2021-07-2626 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 48: YouthWrite with Gail Sidonie SobatLast week we were having some tech challenges, but this week we are BACK!
And what a conversation to come back with - to hear Gail Sidonie Sobat speak about her passion for young writers and reading books in a wide range of literary titles is to be inspired, encouraged and (be warned) the urge to pump your arm in the air may occur. I hear ya. Gail is celebrating YouthWrite's 25th year of preparing young aspiring writers to creatively launch their imaginations in a wild assortment of ways. I would have LOVED this as a teen...
2021-07-0550 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 47:Book, Books, Books!As promised, this episode will not feature bookshop business, booktruck details, the entrepreneur life or any other non-bookish content you can often find on this podcast.
Today, we are only talking about books. I am sharing books I've read recently, and discuss how my reading experience is changing for this particular Summer season.
Get your note-taking, TBR-adding self ready, let's talk some books (and there are more
in my next "nothin; but the books" episode, so stay tuned)!
Books Discussed:
Eight Perfect Murders
Every Vow You Break
2021-06-2132 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 46: Yummy Reads with Peter KeithSometimes a book makes me hungry. Sometimes a Guest reminds me what I love about local business communities. And sometimes both of those happen at once! Today I enjoy sharing a conversation with you that I had with Peter Keith. Peter is a Red Seal Chef, an entrepreneur, a foodie, and an avid reader, so you KNOW we had lots to discuss. If you are in the Edmonton area, you absolutely MUST check out Meuwly's to satisfy your taste buds AND Support Local.
Meuwly's is also on Instagram & Facebook
The 124th Market Community is also w...
2021-06-1653 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 45: Meet My Incredible Sales Rep, Jessica PriceRunning a bookstore means I have to wear many hats. Most people think it's all relaxing, bookish delights in the bookstore biz, and whereas that is true sometimes, there is a crazy amount of work behind the scenes to make it all flow smoothly. One of the things we rely on is getting new books from publishers that we can count on. Ordering new books for customers seems like a no-brainer, but not all book distributors or publishers are created equal, my Friend. It can sometimes be a tedious and exhausting chase for a title or a delivery ETA...
2021-06-0753 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 44: Spooky Books With Elise EichmullerOk, who is a fan of thriller reads? Maybe horror reads? Possibly a serial killer book or two? You are not alone! The pandemic may be making the world extra uncertain, but the growth of true crime and thriller/horror reads has proven that we like a little thrill in our reading lives. Elise Eichmuller is a dedicate reader, and as you will discover in this conversation, she is wildly passionate about surrounding herself with as many bookish pleasures as possible. She is such a delight, and we are grateful to have her be a part of our community...
2021-05-261h 01The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 43: Inspiring Young Readers with Bluefish LearningYoung Readers Will Change the World.
At DCBC, that is our mantra for what motivates us to provide the best selection and experience to enhance the reading life of a young reader. In today's episode, I am speaking with Tara Foxcroft and Suzy Peacocke from Bluefish Learning a passion project that aims at selecting books that will inspire readers from all levels to dive deeper into reading. Tara is a Literacy Teacher and Suzy is a retired Teacher, and both share a love of what is possible if children get hooked by reading.
We have...
2021-05-2047 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 42: 3 Stages of a Reader's ExperienceIf you are tuning into this podcast, books are obviously important to you. Maybe they are your respite, your Happy Place, your imagination inspiration... so I am sure that this episode will resonate with you.
The world continues to be a place loaded with frustration, uncertainty, fear and the newsfeed reads like something out of a wonky dystopian novel. I want this podcast to be a space where you can relax, add to your TBR and maybe smile a little. You will always hear about what I am FOR and not what I am against because there...
2021-05-1023 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 41: The Collaborative Power of Jaima Fixsen & Regina SiroisAfter spending just a little bit of time in the company of Jaima Fixsen and Regina Sirois, you will feel motivated to call your BFF and gush on each other for a while. Not only are they two individual, talented authors in their own right, but as a writing duo, they become the irrefutable pen name, Audrey Blake, and they have co-authored their debut title, The Girl in His Shadow. This historical work of fiction focuses on a young woman named Nora and her passion to study medicine in 1840's London, when women were not permitted to pursue such p...
2021-05-0349 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 40:Let's talk Non-Fiction With Mel MacGregorWhy didn't I post this episode on Monday? Because running a bookshop is a lot of work, and this girl doesn't have a producer or editor - I am doing all this podcast stuff myself. And I know you're the graceful sort who is not hemmed in by legalistic rules and dates, so I appreciate you.
Today we are talking about Non Fiction, Canadian Non Fiction more specifically, and our Guest is someone who is so excited about the books she's been reading that you will undoubtedly hear that in her words. Mel MacGregor is a frequent...
2021-04-3036 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 39: Midlife with Sarah Chan & Jhenifer PabillanoToday is a first for this podcaster - I get to talk with 2 Guests at the same time! It was an absolute delight to talk with Sarah Chan & Jhenifer Pabillano about their new anthology, Midlife.
If we are fortunate enough to reach middle age then we also know it comes with as many victories as challenges, especially during a pandemic when so many things are escalated. This book is a collection of essays, and just about as local as you can get - ya gotta love when literary talent is grown on your own home soil.
2021-04-1936 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 38: Business Bar - Transition to BookstoreIt's been awhile since we have discussed the business side of bookshop life, and since I have received a significant number of requests for more info about the booktruck and WHY I switched to a brick & mortar business instead of a mobile bookshop, this is the episode for answering ALL the questions!
I also discuss the books I'm currently reading because, well, I can't NOT talk about books.
Books discussed:
Not My Father's Son by Alan Cumming
Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery
The Miraculous Journey of...
2021-04-1226 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 37: Adding Value to Your Reading LIfeHow do you determine if your reading is valuable?
How do you get more out of what you are already reading?
How do you choose books that make you a better human?
Today's chapter is all about you and your reading life, and how to make it the best it can be!
Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks...
2021-03-2933 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 36: Everyone, Meet Jennifer McKinlay!For me, it's all about Community. While we read it is a private thing between you and the book, but once you close that book, you NEED PEOPLE. Especially when the world is struggling with so many social challenges at one time, we need to find a way to connect with other humans. We are pack animals, even if we often prefer to hide out in our caves alone to recharge. Today I am thrilled to share a conversation I had with Jennifer McKinlay, a fellow booklover in Aberdeen, Scotland. A little distance, and maybe a slight time difference...
2021-03-2238 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 35: Reader DilemmasHey, You!
The reading life is a beautiful, solitary, peaceful thing, is it not? However, many of us encounter dilemmas that cause a tiny bit of stress or uncertainty - you are not alone! We touch on a few of those today because I am about keeping it real, we don't paint life with a rainbow sparkly brush here. We know there are bumps in the road. Sit next to me, Friend. Let's chat.
Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are av...
2021-03-1528 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 34: Craft Beer & Community with Scott MessengerOur bookstore has been open for 5 months now, and I cannot believe it. I've been caught up in this glorious whirlwind and have met the most wonderful people! Today I am sharing a conversation I had with Scott Messenger, author of Tapping the West, a book about the craft beer industry right here in Alberta. Since it has been on our shelves, Scott's book has resonated with our readers in such a huge way that I just knew he was someone you would want to hear more from on this podcast. As a parent, an author, and someone with...
2021-03-0838 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 33: A Bookbus is Coming to The Bronx! Fangirling With Latanya DeVaughn of Bronx Bound BooksWhen you meet a Kindred Spirit in the mobile retail space, it is a very special feeling. We are kind of a niche community. When I was still operating the booktruck, I connected with Latanya from Bronx Bound Books who desired to bring books to the people of the Bronx - a city with only ONE brick & mortar bookstore, can you believe it? Latanya saw a need and did what any entrepreneur with grit & hootspa does - she did all the work to see her vision become a reality. I could not be more excited for her and for...
2021-03-011h 03The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 32: Let's Review Some BooksThere has been so much going on in our little world of bookish delights, one of which is the Polar Vortex that has taken over our city. While we are all trying to manage the -36 degree temps, it seems like a good time to talk books, whaddya say?
As well, I go a little deeper into the question about what happened to the booktruck and what the transition from bookshop on wheels to bookshop with an address has been like. This is something that will come up in future episodes as well as I continue to...
2021-02-101h 00The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 31: No More Booktruck and Brandi ReadsAs always, I am so thrilled to have you along on this crazy book adventure! The idea of starting a booktruck was wild enough, but then to leave that to switch to a brick & mortar bookshop - WTH? In this episode, I touch on that transition and will continue to bring up different parts of that decision in future episodes.
Let's talk books. I have been reading a lot since we last talked, and I can't wait to share some of the titles with you!
Fierce, Free and Full of Fire
Willa's Grove
2021-02-0133 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 30: So Much Has ChangedHello again!!
We may have a new name, a new pic and a new focus, but our love for reading, sharing a good story and talking about the business of books has not changed. We have traded in our license plate for an address and now run a bookshop in the incredible High Street community in Edmonton. More on that little change in upcoming episodes...
Today I am psyched to share my conversation with Rick MacDonnell, a virtuoso in the booktube world and a genuinely nice guy who just loves books. He has a vibrant...
2021-01-2444 min
The Cathy Heller Podcast with Cathy HellerJill Stanton on Launching & Empowering Your Audience in Pop Up Groups + Our Podcast Turns 4 Years Old!How can you help your audience take action and get results? Jill Stanton, cofounder of Screw the Nine to Five returns to the podcast to share her advice on how to use pop up groups to lead to a higher ticket offer, empower your community to break through their limiting beliefs, and expand your energetic capacity to show up and serve in a bigger way. We also celebrate the 4th birthday of this podcast by sharing your success stories and updates from Greg Franklin the Cheesecake Ninja, Tomi Makanjuola, Brandi Morpurgo, Danielle Silverstein, Zanetta Kok and more!
- Join the...
2021-01-071h 16The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 29: Comfort Reads & TBR PilesHey, YOU! Today I am back with another bookish episode, and it's ALL about the books! No Business talk this time. I have been getting so many email & DM questions about the right book for the right mood, how to work through your To Be Read pile and so many more... today I am tackling a few of your questions and then sharing what books I have been reading lately. Keep in mind that I am not only going to share books with you that I want you to buy - my goal is to provide honest opinions about...
2020-09-0139 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 28: Let's Talk Business, Because YOU AskedOK, so I missed posting an episode last week.
I know you can forgive me because well, life happens. As posts about my bookshop on wheels are being shared widely on social media, there has been a significant increase in the number of requests I receive about duplicating my business idea. So, as much as I feel like it is similar to the last episode's rant about Copycats and pursuing a unique and personal business model, this is clearly what y'all are wanting to hear so I will respond accordingly.
Here are answers to the...
2020-08-1743 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 27: Business Bar Rant About Social Media, Copycats & CDBAs much as I love talking about the books, there is so much behind-the-scenes about the business of bookselling that I want to talk about today. I get so many emails and in-person questions about booktruck life, and there are a ridiculous amount of uninformed opinions or assumptions about what I do, so I thought I would tackle a few of them here. Last episode, I ranted. This time - I do so again. Straight talk, unedited, from me to you.
I discuss the valuable impact of the right photos and being vulnerable in social media, the r...
2020-08-0330 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 26: Body Shaming Rant & a Fun Convo with Carrie ThunderSo, if you know me at all, you know that sometimes I go off on a topic, unhinged and passionate... I did that today. I have some very strong opinions about body image and the language we use to talk about how we look or how we think someone else SHOULD look. Daisy Chain Book Co. was featured in a very fun video created by the talented Brandon Mattice and as I watched myself in this video, I had some thoughts. Since we're friends, I thought I'd share them with you here.
Awhile ago, I recorded a f...
2020-07-2033 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 25: The Sweet Life with Colleen HeideckerI am so incredibly blessed to have discovered such inspirational and dynamic women entrepreneurs on my Booktruck journey. One of this women is Colleen Heidecker, of Colleen's Chocolates. If you have been around Edmonton for the last couple of years and discovered her amazing chocolate delights at any of the locations lucky enough to sell them, then you KNOW. She is not just a chocolate master - there is far more to this sweet lady than just chocolate. In today's episode, Colleen shares with us her fascination for all things food, the sustainability and wonder of organic, homegrown tastes...
2020-07-1342 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 24: Just BrandiHey there!
I find that this COVID time for me is all about lists: the lists of things I want to get done, the lists of things I have to get done and the list of things I have not finished... I'll give you one second to guess which one of these lists I have excelled at. Uh-huh. There are days I am successful and many that I am not. I know I am not alone in this, and let's face it - I can't blame all of this on CV19. This is just my life.
To...
2020-06-3013 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 23: Friends, Meet Kelly BuckleyWhere to begin? First of all, let me just say that the Booktruck world right now is SUPER crazy. There is so much going on and plates are spinning all over the place! Amidst all that is happening, and other things I cannot share with you just yet (wink-wink), it is so nice to take a deep breath and spend time here with you on the podcast for a brief moment because I love this podcast community and it is one of my fave things to prepare and record these chapters of this Booktruck story for you.
...
2020-06-1526 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 22: Musical Storytelling with Kerri BrigdenFriends, it's raining here. Raining HARD. All I want to do is hunker down with a good book and a hot cup of tea! On days like this I am grateful for the comforts of home, and editing this podcast was such a fun process to do while I listen to my girls laughing and reach down to scratch Mr. Benson as he lays at my feet. Today I am sharing with you a convo I had with Kerri Brigden, a young woman I have known for awhile and had the pleasure of watching her grow into a stellar...
2020-06-0838 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 21: A Storytelling Beekeeper - Janelle DudzicToday's episode is a mixture of silly and motivational.
Last week, I introduced you to the segment of the podcast I am calling the Reader Rapid-Fire 30. 30 questions about your fave books, details about your reading life and a sneak peek into the fabulousness of people I meet on my booktruck journey. Today I am sharing the raw, unedited piece that my daughters and I recorded about MY Rapid-Fire 30. There are some giggles, some accents and maybe one or two whoops moments. I hope you enjoy it!
The motivational part is entirely due to my Guest...
2020-06-0146 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 20: Friends, Meet Hannah MorpurgoApparently, as the pace of life has become very different lately, so is my podcast scheduling! After a couple weeks away, it is so good to talk with you again.
Today it is my profound pleasure to introduce you to Hannah Morpurgo. She is an avid booklover, a dedicated English Major training to become a High School music teacher, a young woman likely to say the funniest thing at the drop of a hat and my firstborn daughter. As the newest member of the Daisy Chain Book Co. team, Hannah is doing everything from inventory management, bookselling...
2020-05-2519 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 19: View From the Driver's SeatHey, Friend!
I missed you. The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind of activity at Daisy Chain Book Co., and I am finally able to sit down, record, edit and post this episode because y'all have kept me super busy with orders and deliveries. I have had a unique perspective of my business lately, sitting in the driver's seat of the booktruck, going to your homes and placing bags of books on your porches... I have visited parts of my one city that I have never seen before, and I have delighted at the activities...
2020-05-0419 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 18: Stories YOUR Way with Alex Pankratz-BrownHey, You!
Today I got to spend time with Alex Pankratz-Brown, a local creative wonder who dabbles professionally in digital storytelling and in this episode she shares honestly about recovering from difficulty and the struggles with resuming the passion for reading she once had in her youth. The reading life changes as you go through different seasons of life and we had a lot of laughs as we talk about the hidden pressures of an unread stack of books, the magic of Harry Potter and I reveal that once a Social Worker, always a Social Worker.
2020-04-201h 00The Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 17: Books, Business & Coffee with Jenn OleksynSo, Friend, how are YOU coping with self-isolation, homeschooling your kiddos and managing to keep yourself entertained when the world is a mix of Little House on the Prairie and The Walking Dead? There is a mess of stuff you could stream and feel your brain cells atrophy... or you can find new and exciting things to read! In the upcoming episodes, I am going to focus on making book suggestions with different themes to stimulate your reading life during this pandemic.
For today, I am excited for you to hear my discussion with Jenn Oleksyn, co-owner...
2020-04-1440 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 16: Melanie Moore from Cincy Book BusWell, Friend is this a season for reading, or WHAT?? With all of this self-isolation, I am hearing from many of you that you are reading more books right now than ever before. So am I!
In today's chapter of The Booktruck Chronicles, I am presenting you with a conversation I recorded back in February before we knew this COVID crisis was going to become such a foundational change in how we live our everyday lives. It was a pleasure to talk with Melanie Moore, owner and operator of Cincy Book Bus, a mobile bookstore in Cincinnati...
2020-04-0645 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 15: You Can Do Anything with Darla WoodleyWhen times are difficult, it's important to fill your ears with things that are inspiring. This chapter of the podcast was recorded a little while ago before COVID-19 took over our news feed and social potential. And yet, I am amazed at how relevant this conversation is when we are all needing a reminder about hope TODAY.
Darla Woodley is a local children's book author who has a story of inspiration and tenacity I am sure you will enjoy. She wrote Red Socks Go With Anything, an award-winning book that started a movement called #redsocksforasher, to help...
2020-03-3044 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 14: Book Suggestions, Anyone?Hey, Friend - you're back!
One thing I know is true about Readers and that they love thinking about, talking about and planning what they will be reading next. This podcast is for YOU! I have stockpiled some Fiction titles that I'd love to share with you and I would love to hear your thoughts on them as well! Send me a msg, let's have a convo.
In The Business Bar, I am daring to discuss a topic that may be touchy for some, because it pushes some buttons and maybe delicately steps on some...
2020-03-2339 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 13: Time Travel & Book Clubs with Charlene TamuraSometimes books speak to what is on everyone's mind, and even though the books in this episode are not intended to inflame any fear or concern about the global concern for health and safety that we are all experiencing right now, it is a reminder that books that were written a while ago can be just as relevant to us today.
In today's episode, I am speaking to Charlene Tamura who has a list of books for your TBR list that has a tender yet familiar theme of sickness, science fiction, time travel and "what-if" Fiction that...
2020-03-1636 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 12: Part 2 of Discussion with Julie Parr & Being Adaptable as a BusinessBooks have the beautiful talent of reaching beyond the pages and creating stories, characters, and images that we want to talk about. In this second part of my face to face discussion with Julie parr, we talk about the power of Book Clubs to expand your perspectives on reading through discussion and community. Anyone who has been in a Book Club knows the value of this - if everyone reads the book! Julie and I talk more about books she insists I must read and the word "herpes" is used for the first time in a bookish convo on...
2020-03-0930 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 11: Preteen Books & Supporting LocalSometimes I just want to go back to my younger self and enjoy the carefree drama of being a preteen. Sometimes. Then I shake my head and remember that I can read the books I enjoyed and leave it at that. Who wants to go back to acne, braces, awkward encounters with boys and the questionable fashion choices...? In this episode of The Booktruck Chronicles, I am talking about some of the most memorable books I read in my younger Brandi years.
In The Business Bar, I am addressing a question that often surprises me about the...
2020-03-0220 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 10: Challenge Your Reading with Julie ParrSitting down with one of your best girlfriends and hitting "Record" means anything can happen - and nothing could be more true about my time with Julie Parr. Julie is one of my dearest friends, and she is as full of wisdom and inspiration as she is likely to say something that will make me snort with laughter. Today's interview is exactly what I hoped for - challenging and entertaining. We have always had books in common and today we touch on the value of reading a book that pushes the line and opens our perspective on the world...
2020-02-2442 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 9: Booktruck Reality with Hilary Atleo of Iron Dog Books
Every now and then you meet a fellow professional who understands the quirky, hard to explain nature of your business. From very early on in my booktruck journey, I met one such business owner: Hilary Atleo, owner of Iron Dog Books in British Columbia. Iron Dogs was the second bookshop on wheels in Canada, and I had the pleasure of meeting her and seeing how her business operated in real life. Today I am chatting with Hilary about why she does this crazy job, how it has changed since she began and why she chose to pursue a...
2020-02-1758 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 8: Wellness in Your Body & Your Reading Life with Cari LetourneauIf you have been paying attention (and because you are incredibly wise and attentive, I am sure you have been...), you will notice that this is the 5th Guest Interview whose name starts with the "k" sound. This was unintentional, but sometimes ya just gotta go with it, ya know?
Today's bookish discussion is with Cari Letourneau, a Mom, Wife, Teacher, and Wellness Coach who is wildly passionate about health in mind and body. She is absolutely contagious with her energy and focus and I dare you not to try and make healthier decisions after you listen...
2020-02-1041 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 7: Self Help TruthsHey, Friend!
When it comes to considering which books will make it onto the shelves of the booktruck, I always take into consideration what YOU are asking for more of, what is trending in backlist titles and how I can advance your reading life. Today, I am opening up the dialogue about a genre that many readers are incredibly dedicated to, and I am hopefully shedding some critical light on it: Are Self Help books helping us or keeping us stuck? I would love to hear your thoughts about it, so please email me anytime to have...
2020-02-0313 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 6: Fellow Booktruck Chick Kate KeeperHello Friend!!
It is very rare in my business that I find someone who "gets it". Last year another booktruck emerged on the scene, in Delaware, USA! I was thrilled to connect with Kate Keeper, the owner/operator of GoGo Books, a nomadic storybook shop on wheels. She does it on her terms, in her own time and she is discovering that running a booktruck is not like any other job out there. So, have fun listening in on our discussion about the highs and lows of booktruck life, and why we wouldn't choose to do anything...
2020-01-2738 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 5: Books & Movies with Katelin HamilHey, Friends!!
Bringing Daisy the Booktruck to communities introduces me to the coolest people. Today I will be chatting with Katelin Hamil, a dedicated mom, wife, Reader, and neighbor from a nearby community that I met last year. We couldn't wait to talk about our favorite and least favorite book-to-movie adaptations, so get your TBR list out and start making notes - Katelin has a fantastic reading life and you'll want to make some of the titles we discussed your new favorites.
In the Business Bar I'll be tackling a peculiar and yet common statement...
2020-01-2043 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 4: Book Coaching with My Sister, Cari FrameHey, YOU! So glad you're back!
Today's Book Talk convo is with Cari Frame, a certified Life Coach who is determined to empower people to live their best life. She is also a book editor and the winner of the Brenda Strathern Writing Prize at WordFest this past November. Cari has been a voracious reader all her life and will share some of the books that have had a memorable impact on her life. She keeps so many plates spinning, and she continues to inspire me. In addition to all of this, she is also my sister...
2020-01-1338 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 3: Book Talk with Kara Annett & Booktruck BrandingI’m so glad you’re back!! Today’s chapter has our first Book Talk Interview, with Kara Annett. We chat about books we have loved, people who have impacted our reading lives and how some books leave a lasting impact. She is fresh, intelligent and we had a wonderful chat. In upcoming chapters I’ll be having more engaging discussions with readers that I am sure you would want to sit and share a drink with. Readers are incredible!
The Business Bar focus today is on branding. What the heck is it? Why are we hearing so much...
2020-01-0637 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 2: TBR Titles & More From the Business BarWelcome back, Reader!
Today I am sharing some of my most enjoyable reads from 2019 and answering a very common question about Booktruck Life. Thanks for listening!
Reach out to me anytime at Daisy Chain Book Co. on all the socials, and email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co
Daisy Jones and The Six
Shanghai Girls
Parnassus on Wheels
The Bookish Life of Nina Hill
Dolores Claiborne
Kane and Abel
Don't Keep Your Day Job
2019-12-2921 minThe Bookshop ChroniclesChapter 1: Bookish Myths & Why a Bookshop on WheelsThank you for listening to today's chapter!
Books we discussed:
Purple Cow by Seth Godin
Start With Why by Simon Sinek
You can find all the books in our booktruck at Daisy Chain Book Co.
2019-12-2411 min2019-12-2001 min
Keeping Shop: A Brick and Mortar PodcastThe Power Of An Impactful Customer Experience - Brandi Morpurgo of Daisy Chain Book Co.Today I'm speaking with Brandi Morpurgo, owner of Daisy Chain Book Co. in Alberta, Canada. I heard the story of Brandi's book store on wheels on the podcast Don't Keep Your Day Job and now am delighted to be sharing it with you on Keeping Shop.
Brandi shares her startup story; both how difficult it was to be the first of her kind and also how her natural drive and resilience forged a path to a successful opening. We talk about the myth of social media, building community wherever you go and providing a truly impactful customer experience. Brandi also...
2019-06-251h 02The Cathy Heller Podcast with Cathy HellerHow to Build a Bookstore on Wheels - Brandi MorpurgoHow does a silly little idea for a mobile bookstore become a reality? Brandi Morpurgo, creator of Daisy Chain Book Co. had a lifelong love for books, but she wanted to spread the stories to each person's heart in a more personal way. She shares how she got the courage to forge ahead with her idea - even when there was no proof it would work, why bringing value and making personal connections is the best way to find your tribe, and why stories are timeless treasures to the doors of all that is possible.
- Join a local DKYDJ...
2019-01-1049 min