Episode 102. The Man, The Myth, Blessed with the Words That Tend to Uplift - Shawayne Dunstan

In Episode 102 of the Overheard Podcast, recorded live in Banff, hosts Daniel Ruedl and Matty Rage sit down with Shawayne Dunstan, an author, artist, and creative force whose work continues to resonate far beyond the Bow Valley.

Shawayne Dunstan has published 13 poetry books since 2016, including Tumblebug, Wallflower, and Rise of Shaweezy. In 2025 alone, he released three new collections — Nova, Rise of Shaweezy, and Let This Hold You Over. His latest work explores dedication, love, maturity, and the quiet discipline behind sustained creativity. He is currently writing his 14th book, an autobiography titled Epiphany of a Stargazer, further deepening his personal and philosophical body of work.

This episode dives deep into art, spirituality, and philosophy, offering an honest conversation about creativity as both a practice and a way of living. Shawayne shares insight into his writing process, editing approach, and how he navigates self-doubt while maintaining a high level of creative output. The discussion also explores his growing passion for painting and visual art, including his recent art installation at the Banff Public Library, and what it means to place meaningful work into public community spaces.

The conversation extends beyond the arts into public speaking and leadership, touching on Shawayne’s experience speaking at the Bow Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards, and how moments like these shape both personal confidence and professional direction. Living in Banff plays a central role throughout the episode, with reflections on finding inner stillness in a constantly moving mountain town and the responsibility artists carry within close-knit communities.

Whether you’re a writer, artist, creative entrepreneur, or someone drawn to thoughtful conversations about meaning and purpose, this episode offers grounded insight into creating work that uplifts while staying rooted in place and intention.

Listen now to Episode 102 of the Overheard Podcast — a conversation on creativity, spirituality, philosophy, and living artfully in the mountains.

And as always,

See you next Tuesday.