Guest: Damian Walshe-Howling

Episode Description

What does it take to stay devoted to a creative life — not just for a moment, but for decades?

In this deeply personal episode of The Unknown Path, Jem Fuller sits down with actor, writer, director, and longtime friend Damian Walshe-Howling. Having known each other since their teenage years, the conversation moves beyond career highlights into a raw exploration of anxiety, resilience, grief, creativity, and the power of storytelling to transform both artist and audience.

From early days immersed in Melbourne’s theatre scene to landing a breakthrough role on Blue Heelers, and now directing award-winning films like Unspoken, Damian shares what it means to walk the wire of uncertainty while staying connected to your North Star.

What We Explore in This Episode

• Growing up around theatre and discovering storytelling through the body
• Advice Damian would give his anxious 16-year-old self
• The Blue Heelers audition story — and the unexpected twists along the way
• Staying resilient and present across decades in the acting industry
• Depression, friendship, surfing, and nature as anchors through difficult times
• Regret, grief, and the transformative power of loss
• Influences from Alan Watts, Joseph Campbell, Patti Smith, and others
• Lessons in generosity inspired by Heath Ledger
• Directing, writing, and creating safe collaborative spaces for storytelling

Creative Process & Craft

Damian reflects on storytelling as a living process — allowing ideas to emerge organically rather than forcing them into structure. As a director, his philosophy is simple: cast the right people, create safety, then step back and allow the work to unfold.

About Damian Walshe-Howling

Damian Walshe-Howling is an Australian actor, writer, director, producer, and musician whose career spans decades across television, film, and theatre. Beginning his journey in Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene, he has built a reputation for depth, presence, and creative integrity.

His recent short film Unspoken won the Grand International Prize at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival and is currently eligible for Oscar consideration. Damian also teaches at Brave Studios, supporting the next generation of storytellers.

Links & Resources

Unspoken — SBS On Demand (Australia)
Brave Studios: Here

About The Unknown Path

Hosted by Jem Fuller, The Unknown Path explores the real journeys behind transformation — the unseen stories, challenges, and turning points that shape meaningful lives and movements.