Spotlighting both established and emerging writers from Montana and the western U.S., Words Out West offers listeners a wide range of literary forms, genres, and styles. In each episode, our talented writers present poems, fiction, nonfiction, radio plays, songs, and other modes of verbal expression

Welcome to Words Out West, a podcast bringing you original writings from the Rocky Mountains and beyond.

A rapping cowboy, a river-guiding novelist and a bus-riding Poet Laureate are just a few of the folks you’ll hear from on Words Out West.

Words Out West is excited to announce our Season 3!

  • The Nuclear Baby Boom

    In this episode, we’ll hear a dramatic reading about two boys growing up in the Atomic Age, and how they changed their small town forever

  • Words and Music

    In this episode, we’ll hear songs from the duo Toy Box, comprised of Beth Melody and LaBarre Bankshot, and learn of Beth’s collaboration with lyricist Gwen McKenna.

  • Big Sky, Deep Thoughts and Mr. Bubble

    In this episode, writer Ednor Therriault takes us on a mental road trip through Montana with his stories and songs and even shares some marital advice from Mr. Bubble.

  • It’s Kind Of About Coffee

    In this episode, we’ll hear from a singer/songwriter/musician who says he’s wholly unfit to pursue a conventional lifestyle, but musters a peculiar existence relying largely on music, art, luck, and the love of his community.

  • Lunatic Masterpieces

    In this episode, the writer talks about the politics of fishing in Montana, reads about his life and friends, and sings just to make us laugh.

    Greg Keeler: Memoir excerpts: Trash Fish: A Life; Waltzing With the Captain; poetry: variety of poems/sonnets; and songs The Ballad of Billy Montana, Indian In-Law, Little Bitch Creek, MCH, A Song To Go, and Neon Dream. Greg Owens: songs: The Greek Drama Song and Umbrella Song.

  • Songwriters Showcase

    In this episode, live performances from the March 26, 2023 Words Out West Songwriters Showcase featuring four singer/songwriters who lent their time and talent for our Season 3 fundraiser.

  • Words Out West Radio Special
    Some of the writers featured on this radio show include, poet Chris La Tray, songwriters Caroline Keys with Nate Biehl, poet Sarah Aronson and short story author David Allan Cates.
  • Voices from the Oval

    In this episode, we celebrate the fruits of a teacher’s labor. You’ll hear from Professor Robert Stubblefield, along with three of his University of Montana students.