Overheard Podcast

Overheard Podcast

di Overheard Studio
CommediaMusica
Stagione 1

The Other Side of Mountain Life, Unpacking Bow Valley Mental Health and Addictions Week with Cheryl

This week on the Overheard Podcast recorded live in Banff, we sit down with Cheryl for one of the most honest and important conversations we’ve had on the show. Behind the postcard image of mountain life, there’s another reality people in the Bow Valley are quietly navigating every day. Mental health struggles, isolation, addiction, burnout, homesickness, pressure, and the challenge of asking for help in a small town where everyone feels connected. As part of Bow Valley Mental Health and Addictions Week, Cheryl shares her personal experience living with severe anxiety and depression, what recovery and support looked like for her, and why mental health support can never be treated as one size fits all. We also unpack the unique challenges facing communities like Banff and the Bow Valley: seasonal work culture, hospitality industry pressures, stigma in small towns, toxic positivity, recognizing when someone may be struggling, and the role community connection plays in recovery and healing. This episode is about awareness, compassion, prevention, and community support. If you’ve ever struggled yourself, worried about someone close to you, or simply want to better understand what people around you may be carrying, this conversation matters. Disclaimer: This episode discusses mental health, addiction, and lived experiences in an educational and awareness based context. The content is not intended to promote harmful behaviour and is focused on prevention, recovery, and community support. Big thanks to our sponsor @drinkshaft The Bow Valley’s number one grab and go cold brew. Shoutout to Defending Awesome for the Overheard merch and creative support. Check out the merch at: www.overheardpodbanff.com If you enjoyed the episode don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. About 70% of our viewers are unsubscribed and supporting the channel helps us keep these conversations going. SEE YOU NEXT TUESDAY!!
S1 · E118
6 mag 2026
53:52

Kicking off SVAM with Melissa and Jemima in Partnership with the YWCA Banff

This week on the Overheard Podcast, recorded live in Banff, we’re opening up a conversation that matters to this community right now. As part of SVAM (Sexual Violence Awareness Month), we sit down with Melissa and Jemima to unpack how prevention, workplace culture, and everyday behaviour all intersect here in the Bow Valley. Melissa works with Shift: The Project to End Domestic Violence, bringing a research-driven approach to prevention, while Jemima leads local efforts through the Harmony Project with YWCA Banff. Together, they’re working directly with hospitality businesses across Banff to strengthen workplace culture using the Signal System. This episode breaks down what that actually looks like on the ground. We get into: * Why Banff’s transient, international workforce creates unique challenges * The “live, work, and play together” dynamic and how it shapes behaviour * Why people sometimes hesitate to speak up in workplace situations * The idea of “calling in” instead of calling out * How small, everyday actions signal what’s acceptable in a workplace * The normalization of certain behaviours in hospitality environments * What real culture change looks like from both staff and management perspectives * How SVAM is showing up in the Bow Valley and how you can get involved This is a real, local conversation rooted in solutions, awareness, and the role we all play in shaping the culture around us. Resources & Support (Bow Valley) If you or someone you know is looking for support, information, or ways to get involved, you can explore the Harmony Project here: ywcabanff.ca/programs-services/harmony-project/ Presented by Drinkshaft Start early. Do the day right. The Bow Valley’s go-to cold brew. Support the Show Merch → www.overheardpodbanff.com If it’s your first time here, hit subscribe. It goes a long way in helping us keep these conversations going. Follow Overheard Podcast Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify | Apple Podcasts See you next Tuesday.
S1 · E117
1 mag 2026
1:04:13

Somewhere Between the Mountains and the Music with Andrew Staygold

Episode 116. Somewhere Between the Mountains and the Music with Andrew Staygold You don’t last 20 years in Banff by accident. You adapt, you grind, or you leave. This week on the Overheard Podcast recorded live in Banff, we sat down with Andrew Staygold, a longtime local who has built a career in music from the ground up while living full time in the Bow Valley. From arriving in 2004 to navigating the service and ski industry, to leaving town to chase music and ultimately returning to build something real, this episode breaks down what it takes to stay committed in a place where most people move on. With over a decade in music and audio, 139 paid gigs in 2025 alone, and a fully developed solo acoustic sound and personal music project, Andrew shares the reality behind the lifestyle, the discipline it takes to sustain it, and the mindset required to keep going when nothing is guaranteed. We also get into the mountain side of things, 100-day ski seasons, ultramarathons, and how that endurance mentality translates directly into his creative work. This is a conversation about longevity, identity, and building something that lasts in a town that rarely does. In this episode: • Moving to Banff in 2004 and never leaving • What keeps people here long term • The reality behind the Banff lifestyle • Leaving to chase music and coming back • Building a career in music and audio • Playing 139 gigs in one year • Developing a solo acoustic sound and personal project • The challenges of being an independent artist • Mountain life, skiing, trail running and ultramarathons • Mindset, discipline and chasing something long term • What success looks like now Follow Andrew Staygold: Instagram: @AndrewStaygold This episode is brought to you by @drinkshaft The Bow Valley’s go to nonalcoholic cold brew. Whether you’re starting early or keeping things moving, Drinkshaft has you covered. Available across Western Canada and locally at Townhouse Liquor. If you’ve seen the Overheard hats and gear around town, that’s all thanks to Defending Awesome, a full-service print and design shop right here in the Bow Valley. If you want to support the show and rep something local: www.overheardpodbanff.com If it’s your first time joining us don’t forget to like and subscribe. We find that about 70 percent of our viewers are not subscribed and it helps us more than you think. Thanks for tuning in, and like every week, See you next Tuesday!!
E116
21 apr 2026
55:56
Stagione 1

The Story Behind the Music with Lil Beckta

No matter what it was, he turned it into music. This week on the Overheard Podcast, we sit down with Lil Beckta, an artist whose journey goes far beyond music. Originally from Winnipeg and now shaped by his time in Banff and the Bow Valley, this conversation is about growth, resilience, and figuring things out in real time. From early life experiences and finding his creative voice, to navigating personal challenges and building something meaningful through music, Lil Beckta opens up about what it really takes to keep going. We talk about the transition to mountain life, the mindset behind his work, and how creativity can become an outlet when you need it most. Even if you’re not into rap or hip hop, this episode is for anyone who’s ever tried to turn their situation into something better, anyone chasing progress, or anyone just trying to stay on track. We also get into his creative process, how his sound has evolved, what he wants listeners to take away from his music, and what this next chapter looks like as he continues to move forward. If you’ve never heard his music before, this is where you start. Big thank you to our sponsor @drinkshaft for supporting the show and helping us keep these conversations going. If you’ve been seeing the new Overheard merch around town, that’s all thanks to Defending Awesome. They helped bring the whole lineup to life and continue to support local creators, businesses, and ideas here in the Bow Valley. Check out our website for merch and more: www.overheardpodbanff.com Thanks for tuning in, and as always See you next Tuesday!!
S1 · E115
14 apr 2026
1:03:07

Inside Banff’s Underground Music Scene with Gerry Roy

If you’ve spent any time in Banff nightlife over the last two decades, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Gerry Roy. From hosting over 1000 karaoke nights to performing with Regal Foul and building Banff Punk Night from the ground up, Gerry has been a driving force behind the town’s underground music scene. In this episode, we go deep into Gerry’s journey from arriving in Banff in 2000 with no long-term plan to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the local scene. We talk about what it takes to actually stay in a place like Banff, how nightlife has changed over the years, and what people are really looking for when they go out. We get into the realities behind hosting hundreds of events, what karaoke has taught him about people, and how instant gratification and social media have shifted the way we experience live music and connection. We also dive into Regal Foul, the story behind the name, the band’s sound, and a major announcement around new music. Gerry breaks down what punk really means, especially for people who don’t consider themselves part of that scene, and why it might be more accessible than you think. The second half of the conversation focuses on Banff Punk Night. How it started, why it works in a town like Banff, and what it actually feels like to walk into one of these nights. We talk about building something grassroots in a place that is heavily commercial, the challenges of promoting live events, and why creating spaces like this matters more than ever. This is a conversation about music, community, identity, and building something real in a town where most people are just passing through. This episode is brought to you by Drinkshaft Seasons change. Drinkshaft always stays the same Now available in over 1000 stores across Western Canada Clean energy for early starts and full send adventures Big shoutout to Defending Awesome for bringing our merch to life Check out our website for merch www.overheardpodbanff.com If you’re new here don’t forget to like and subscribe Thanks for tuning in, See you next Tuesday!!
S1 · E114
8 apr 2026
1:14:54

Adam from HEYJACK – The Band You’re About to Hear Everywhere

This is one of those bands you’re going to wish you found earlier. In this episode of the Overheard Podcast recorded live in Banff, we sit down with Adam from HEYJACK — a Canadian band that’s been quietly building serious momentum across the country. From touring almost every province in Canada to sharing stages with some of the country’s most recognizable artists, HEYJACK is carving out a sound rooted in storytelling, identity, and feel-good rock. But this conversation goes deeper than music. We get into Adam’s personal journey, from his early connection to music to rediscovering Indigenous roots and how that’s shaped both his identity and his songwriting. We also unpack what it actually takes to build a band from the ground up, the reality behind the “band lifestyle,” and what it means to keep pushing forward when things start to gain momentum. One of the most unique parts of this story is touring Canada with his kids — and what that experience meant beyond just the music. From the challenges to the unforgettable moments, it adds a whole new layer to what this journey looks like. We also dive into songwriting, including how songs come together, what makes one feel complete, and what it’s like to create something that feels almost too personal to release. With a full-length album on the way, we talk about where HEYJACK is headed next, what success looks like right now, and what Adam hopes people take away when they hear the music for the first time. Whether you’re discovering HEYJACK for the first time or already following their journey, this is a conversation about passion, persistence, family, and building something meaningful. Big thank you to the Brew Pub Taproom for hosting us and supporting local conversations like this. If you enjoy the episode don’t forget to like, subscribe and follow along — it helps us continue bringing real stories from the Bow Valley and beyond. See you Next Tuesday!!
S1 · E113
1 apr 2026
57:21

The Power of Water with Sarah Freeman Coaching

This weeks episode of the Overheard Podcast features Sarah Freeman, a Bow Valley based swim coach, entrepreneur, endurance swimmer, and community leader whose work connects resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Recorded live in Banff, this conversation explores Sarah’s journey to the Bow Valley, the challenges of building a life and business in a mountain town, and how endurance swimming shaped her mindset both in and out of the water. From open water swims to stepping into ice swimming, Sarah shares what it means to face discomfort, manage fear, and stay present through demanding physical and mental challenges. We dive into the evolution of Sarah Freeman Coaching and how she blends discipline with a more intuitive, people first approach. Drawing from over 15 years of experience, she explains how lessons from endurance sport translate into leadership, mentorship, and helping others move forward with clarity and confidence. This episode also highlights Sarah’s deep connection to community. As a board member with YWCA Banff and Executive Director of the Bow Valley Chamber of Commerce, she speaks to the importance of connection, collaboration, and supporting others in meaningful ways. We also explore Swim It Forward, an initiative designed to support young women who are already swimmers and have faced adversity, helping them pursue meaningful goals in the water and beyond. The conversation expands into her work as host of the RAWW Podcast, where she shares stories of Waterwomen from around the world and reflects on the powerful relationship people have with water as a source of transformation, healing, and identity. This is a grounded and thoughtful discussion about resilience, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the strength of community in the Bow Valley. This episode is brought to you by Drinkshaft, a non-alcoholic espresso energy drink available across Western Canada. We also give a shout out to Defending Awesome, a Bow Valley based print and design shop behind the Overheard merch. Supporting local businesses like these helps keep creativity and community thriving. If you are new here, be sure to like and subscribe to support the show and stay connected with conversations that matter to the Bow Valley and beyond. See you next Tuesday!!
S1 · E112
24 mar 2026
49:14

Hang Time Flea: Sustainable Fashion & Snow Farming in Canada's Rockies

This episode of the Overheard Podcast features Jaden Connors, founder of Hangtime Flea, a vintage streetwear market connecting collectors, brands, and vendors across Alberta and the Bow Valley. Recorded live in Banff, Daniel Ruedl and Matty Rage sit down with Jaden to talk about vintage culture, sustainable fashion, and building a business while living the mountain town lifestyle. Jaden has been a Banff local for three years and works on the Sunshine Village trail crew, spending his seasons snow farming in the Canadian Rockies while growing the vintage community in Alberta through Hangtime Flea. In this episode we talk about how Jaden first got into vintage clothing, what makes certain pieces valuable, and why second hand fashion continues to grow as people move away from fast fashion. We also discuss the story behind Hangtime Flea, how the events bring together vendors and collectors, and what it takes to build a community driven project from the ground up. This episode is brought to you by Drinkshaft and also features our new segment “You Didn’t Hear It From Us” presented by Defending Awesome. If you enjoy the episode make sure to like and subscribe make sure you follow @hang_time_flea on IG. Thanks for tuning in and as always, See you next Tuesday!!
S1 · E111
10 mar 2026
56:04

Banff’s Backyard: A Rip with the Norquay Park Crew

Episode 110. Banff’s Backyard: A Rip with the Norquay Park Crew What actually goes into building a terrain park? In this episode of the Overheard Podcast recorded live in Banff, Daniel Ruedl and cohost Matty Rage sit down with the crew behind the features at Mt Norquay. The jumps, rails, and lines riders hit every day do not appear overnight. They are built, shaped, and maintained by people who live and breathe mountain life. Joining the show are Scott Foxall, LJ Lee, and Billy Farrell, members of the Norquay terrain park crew who spend their winters designing and maintaining one of Banff’s most creative parks. Scott arrived in Banff on what was supposed to be a one year stay and is now Terrain Park Manager at Mt Norquay and a PSIC park certification evaluator. LJ came to Banff on a gap year and now splits his seasons between Canada and Australia chasing winter year round. Billy started in the Norquay kitchen before working his way into lift operations, snowcat driving, and eventually becoming a full time terrain park builder. In this conversation we go behind the scenes of terrain park design, snowcat work, and mountain life in Banff. We talk about • how terrain parks are planned and built from the ground up • the science behind shaping jumps and features • why Norquay’s park is known for creative flow • the pressure park builders feel when riders hit their features • the reality of building a life in a mountain town • advice for anyone thinking about spending a winter in Banff • and whether the freestyle world has become too focused on the spin to win mentality If you ski, snowboard, ride park, or just love Banff mountain culture, this episode offers a rare look at the people behind the scenes keeping the progression alive. The episode also features our segment You Didn’t Hear It From Us, presented by our newest partner Defending Awesome, where we take a step back and talk about the current state of media, algorithms, and why fear has become one of the most powerful tools used to capture attention online. This episode is also brought to you by Drinkshaft, Banff’s favourite non alcoholic energy drink. If you are new here, do not forget to like and subscribe. About seventy percent of our listeners are not subscribed and hitting that button helps the show tremendously. Thanks for tuning in to the Overheard Podcast. As always, we’ll See you next Tuesday!!
S1 · E110
3 mar 2026
1:14:47

Janine Windolph, Director of Indigenous Arts at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Episode 109. Janine Windolph, Director of Indigenous Arts at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity It is one thing to talk about representation. It is another to build the space for it. In this episode of the Overheard Podcast recorded live in Banff, we sit down with Janine Windolph, Director of Indigenous Arts at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Janine is Atikamekw and Woodland Cree, and brings decades of experience as a filmmaker, editor, educator, fine craft artist, and community grounded storyteller. Her work lives at the intersection of Indigenous arts, land based learning, and institutional change. We unpack what meaningful inclusion looks like inside large arts institutions, how Indigenous stories are still misunderstood or sidelined in mainstream media, and what it takes to create safer, more welcoming creative spaces for artists. Janine shares how her relationship with land and community shapes her approach to storytelling, how she carries the weight of difficult histories in her work, and why representation without access is not enough. This conversation goes deep on: • Indigenous arts and cultural leadership in Banff • The role of institutions in reconciliation and real change • Storytelling, land based learning, and intergenerational knowledge • Access, privilege, and who gets to occupy creative spaces • What emerging Indigenous artists need to hear right now We also get into Janine’s journey from community engaged filmmaking and documentary work to shaping Indigenous arts programming at one of Canada’s most influential creative institutions, and what she hopes the next generation of Indigenous artists will not have to fight as hard for. Plus, in our You Didn’t Hear It From Us segment, we break down the cancellation of the AROABORA outdoor electronic music festival in Banff and what that says about the realities of trying to build large scale events in a national park town. If you care about Indigenous representation in the arts, reconciliation beyond performative language, Banff culture, and what real institutional change looks like on the ground, this episode is for you. Like every week, See you next Tuesday!!
24 feb 2026
1:01:49
4 di 16