A Match Made by Divine Timing

In a poetic twist that feels almost preordained, Just Dave Oxner—a playwright, entrepreneur, and creative powerhouse—has officially joined the Def Poets Society (DPS). Known for his ability to blend storytelling, performance, and business savvy, Dave’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for DPS as they prepare for an ambitious 2025. And if you ask Dave or his new teammates, they’ll tell you it’s all about one thing: Divine Timing.

A veteran of the arts and entertainment world, Dave began his creative journey as a club promoter in college, crafting experiences that resonated with audiences. He later took to the stage as a poet, performing at Cincinnati’s iconic The Greenwich in the mid-2000s. After years of focusing on other ventures—including founding Eight Twenty Media, a multimedia company—Dave returned to the poetry scene with a fervor, and one poem in particular, “Divine Timing,” became a defining moment in his comeback.

“Divine Timing is more than just a poem for me—it’s a philosophy,” Dave explained. “It’s about trusting that everything happens when it’s supposed to, even if the path feels uncertain. Joining DPS, reconnecting with poetry, all of it feels like it’s part of a bigger plan.”

The poem, which has garnered significant attention, has even inspired a line of merchandise available on Dave’s website. His ability to turn personal reflections into a movement resonated deeply with Nick “Fury” Blackburn, co-founder of Def Poets Society.

“Dave joining DPS is the epitome of divine timing,” Nick said. “He’s not just a poet; he’s a storyteller, a visionary, and someone who understands the power of community. Everything we’ve been building as a team feels like it’s aligned perfectly to bring someone like Dave into the fold.”

DPS co-founder Makiah Malan echoed the sentiment. “There’s something cosmic about the way things have fallen into place. We’ve been expanding, growing, and suddenly, here comes Dave with this incredible energy and talent. It feels meant to be.”

With the momentum of “Divine Timing” behind him, Dave brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to DPS. His focus on creating meaningful connections between poetry and broader audiences aligns seamlessly with the team’s vision for 2025. Plans include the launch of the Cincinnati Poetry Slam, new books and chapbooks from DPS members, and the rollout of their website featuring official merchandise.

Dave sees his involvement with DPS as part of a larger narrative. “This isn’t just about me joining a team. It’s about building something lasting, something that gives poets a platform to shine. Everything I’ve done has led me to this moment, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.”

As Def Poets Society continues to elevate Cincinnati’s poetry scene, Dave’s addition feels like the final piece of a puzzle that’s been years in the making. “Divine Timing isn’t just a poem—it’s a reminder to trust the process,” Dave said with a smile. “And right now, the timing couldn’t be better.“