Stephen Dafoe is an author, journalist, and Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) with a career spanning more than 28 years in print and digital publishing, including books, magazines, newspapers, and websites. His work combines historical research, journalism, and brand storytelling, making him a trusted voice in multiple industries.

Author Stephen Dafoe

Stephen’s expertise in history and fraternal organizations has also led to his appearances in several television documentaries. He was featured in A&E’s Sacred Societies, exploring secret societies and their historical impact; MSNBC’s In Search of Satan, which investigated the influence of occult groups in history; and The Prince and the Grail, a Vision TV production examining the mysteries of the Holy Grail and its connection to Templar history. These documentaries highlighted his depth of research and ability to provide expert analysis on historical and esoteric subjects.

Cover of Morgan: The Scandal That Shook Freemasonry by Stephen Dafoe, a historical book investigating the disappearance of William Morgan and its impact on Freemasonry."Stephen has written extensively on medieval history, fraternal organizations, and whiskey culture. His books include:

  • Morgan: The Scandal That Shook Freemasonry – A 500-page deep dive into the disappearance of William Morgan and its aftermath.
  • Nobly Born: An Illustrated History of the Knights Templar – A well-researched historical work on the legendary order.
  • The Compasses and the Cross: A History of Masonic Templarism – Exploring the evolution of Templar-related traditions in Freemasonry.
  • An Illustrated History of the Knights Hospitaller – A detailed history of the Hospitallers and their legacy.

His early speculative works, co-authored with Alan Butler, include The Warriors and the Bankers and The Knights Templar Revealed, both of which have been reprinted internationally.

Learn More About Stephen’s Books

Journalist & Publisher

Front page of Morinville News featuring Morinville Community High School's production of Grease: The Musical, with students performing on stage.

Stephen Dafoe spent 18 years in journalism, 15 of those as the founder and publisher of MorinvilleNews.com, a respected local news source covering politics, business, and community affairs. Under his leadership, the publication became the go-to news platform for Morinville, Alberta, and played a key role in covering municipal issues and community developments. Dafoe made the decision to close the publication after 15 years in December of 2024.

Beyond journalism, Stephen has contributed articles and photography to regional and national publications, demonstrating his commitment to objective, high-quality reporting.

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Nearly Three Decades in Print & Digital Publishing

Soaring Pig Studios logo featuring a flying pig with goggles, representing creative media production, branding, and storytelling.

Soaring Pig Studios is a media production and branding company led by Stephen Dafoe, specializing in storytelling, digital content, and creative consulting.

Stephen’s publishing career spans books, magazines, and websites, including creating and managing TemplarHistory.com, one of the longest-running online resources on the Knights Templar, which has been live since September 21, 1997. His experience in digital content strategy, SEO, and branding makes him an expert in audience engagement and long-term content sustainability.

Soaring Pig Studios | Pawn Marketing & Publishing Inc.

Through his companies Soaring Pig Studios and Pawn Marketing & Publishing Inc., Stephen Dafoe has provided communications consulting, media production, digital marketing, and brand strategy services for the past 10 years. His expertise includes:

  • Content strategy and storytelling
  • SEO and digital marketing consulting
  • Video production and documentary filmmaking
  • Photography and visual media
  • Marketing for businesses, brands, and organizations

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Elected Official & Public Service

Stephen is serving his third and final term as a Town Councillor for Morinville, marking 12 years in municipal government. In this role, he has:

  • Served on multiple boards, commissions, and committees
  • Contributed to policy development, budgeting, and community initiatives
  • Focused on local governance, economic development, and community engagement

Learn More About Stephen’s Political Role

Other Facts About Stephen Dafoe 

Stephen Dafoe performing a magic act on stage in South Korea in 1995, engaging the audience with a comedic illusion involving two volunteers.

A 1995 photo of Stephen Dafoe performing a magic act in South Korea, captivating the audience with humour and interactive illusions.

Stephen has a deep passion for photography and videography, both professionally and recreationally, capturing moments across editorial, documentary, and artistic styles. His love for whiskey and cigars led to the creation of The Soaring Pig Bar, a personal home bar inspired by the great watering holes he’s visited. While whiskey appreciation is a hobby, it reflects his ongoing passion for history, culture, and storytelling.

Before his career in publishing, Stephen spent time as a magician and comedian, performing at home in Canada, Florida and South Korea, the latter one of his most memorable bookings.. His background in entertainment shaped his approach to storytelling, humour, and audience engagement.

Learn More About Stephen’s Entertainment Career

 

📩 Contact Stephen to collaborate or learn more about his work.