Salt Lake Dirt: Recent Episodes
Kyler Bingham
In this episode, Kyler continues his coverage of Dances with Films 2024 by diving into the short film You Are Here. This intriguing short, directed by Mike Friberg and starring Lehi Falepapalangi, explores existential crises and the human condition in a uniquely humorous and thought-provoking way.
Great chat! Thanks for listening.
Logline: When insurance salesman Peter Kleebold reads an article about the size of the universe, it sends him into an existential tailspin that leads him on a journey to get out of this world.
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Episode Links:
IG: @youarehere.film
MichaelFriberg.com
Trailer
Screenings:
- June 25, 2024, 5pm - Dances with Films
- June 28, 2024, 9:30pm Davey Fest (Fisher Brewing), SLC
- June 29, 2024, 8pm. Fear No Film (in conjunction with the Salt Lake Arts Festival)
- July 11, 2024, 5:30pm - Wyoming International Film Festival
SLD Podcast Info:
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
TikTok: @saltlakedirt
In this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler sits down with filmmaker Danicah Waldo to discuss her narrative short film, Sally Get the Potatoes, which is set to premiere at Dances with Films 2024. Danica shares the heartfelt and humorous inspiration behind the film, reflecting on the moments of lost innocence and inter-generational relationships that shape our lives.
Great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Logline: A little girl’s innocence is shattered when she takes an unexpected ride in her wealthy family’s rolling laundry cart and learns their dark secrets.
Episode Links:
DanicahWaldo.com
IG: @danicah.waldo
IG: @sallygetthepotatoesfilm
Screening:
June 24th 2024 at 4:15pm - Dances with Films
Episode 245
Guest: Brad Englert
In this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler sits down with Brad Englert, author of the book Spheres of Influence: How to Create and Nurture Authentic Business Relationships. Brad shares his extensive experience in IT strategy and leadership, detailing his journey from teaching high school in Australia to managing multi-million dollar projects, and later serving as CIO at the University of Texas at Austin.
Brad delves into the core principles of his book, emphasizing the importance of understanding goals, setting and managing expectations, and genuinely caring about others' success.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and foster meaningful connections in their professional life.
Great chat! Thanks for listening.
Episode Links:
- Purchase Spheres of Influence on Amazon
- BradEnglert.com
- IG: @bradenglertauthor
- Audiobook on Spotify
- YouTube: @bradenglert
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
- TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Jenn Harris - Episode 244:
In this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler chats with the multi-talented filmmaker and actor, Jen Harris. Fresh off her hilarious performance in American Fiction, Jen dives into her latest project, a short film titled She's Clean, which premieres on June 5th on Vimeo.
Jen, who wrote, directed, and stars in the film, discusses the unique premise of a woman seeking to marry her desires for sexual freedom with emotional intimacy—all set within the intimate confines of a single bathroom.
Jen delves into the intricacies of juggling multiple roles on set, the importance of meticulous planning, and the creative process that brought She's Clean to life.
Great chat! Thanks for listening.
Episode Links:
JennHarris.me
Follow Jen on Instagram: @realjenharris
Follow the film on Instagram: @shescleanthefilm
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Tanna Frederick - Episode 243
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler sits down with the dynamic actor and filmmaker Tanna Frederick. Known for her versatility and dedication, Tana shares insights into her latest projects, including the dystopian science fiction film South of Hope Street, now streaming on Amazon Prime. Discover the challenges and triumphs of filming in Switzerland over several years and the prophetic themes that resonate with today's conflicts.
Tanna opens up about her one-woman show, Lion Eyes, set to premiere on June 7 at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks, California. With raw honesty and humor, she delves into her journey through Hollywood, sharing the embarrassing and enlightening moments that shaped her career.
Great chat! Thanks for listening.
Episode Links:
Watch South of Hope Street on Amazon Prime
Whitefire Theatre - Sherman Oaks
Instagram: @tannafrederick
Facebook: @TannaFrederick
SLD Links:
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt, I welcome back filmmaker Matthew Taggart. Matthew was on the show last summer when we were covering the Wyoming International Film Festival. His film The Counterfeit Kidbrought in several awards at the festival and was one of my top picks that year. The Counterfeit Kid is now streaming on most platforms so make sure to check it out!
I had a great time chatting with Matthew about his early inspirations, growing up in Wyoming, and the challenges and advantages of indie filmmaking.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Logline:
"Jack will need his friends to help him outwit the outlaw “Bloody” Ben Harris, find treasure, and return to his true love, Olivia."
Episode Links:
- Falcon85Films.com
- IG: @falcon85films
- Last year's interview with Matthew
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
In this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, actor and filmmaker Michael Cavalieri (Ritornato; La Porta Dell'Inferno) takes us on a cinematic pilgrimage to Sicily, where he uncovers stories of strength and sacrifice. Michael's narrative weaves through the landscapes of his ancestry, culminating in a documentary and feature film that celebrate the human spirit. Hear how a small Sicilian village and its resilient people ignited Michael's drive to create films that not only entertain but also educate and unite. Experience the power of reconnecting with one's roots and the transformative impact it can have on storytelling.
SYNOPSIS: "La Porta Dell'Inferno" (The Door to Hell) is a true story of courage, sacrifice and the love of family. This documentary chronicles the inspirational stories of some of the last surviving men who worked in the sulfur mines in central Sicily. These Marvel superheroes, as I call them, give us a deep insight into the slave-like conditions they were forced to work under by private ownership for many years up until 1963. Their courage, will and determination is the centerpiece of this film as they discuss their families and relentless pursuit to keep them together. There was only one choice they could make if they wanted to keep their families together, it was immigration or the sulfur mines... They all chose the sulfur mines.
Episode Links:
- RitornatoTheMovie.com
- IG: @ritornat_the_movie_
- Hamilton, Ontario, Zoetic Theater - April 7, 2024
- SFIAC Ballroom, San Francisco - April 18, 2024
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Dive into the mind-bending world of Violent Faculties, a novel by Charlene Elsby that blurs the lines between philosophy and fiction. Join podcast host Kyler Bingham as he uncovers the genesis of this gripping tale, where a philosophy professor turned experimental maverick pushes the boundaries of human decency. Discover the creative process behind Elsby's unapologetically bold narrative and find out why this book is a must-read for those who dare to venture into the dark corners of academic satire and existential authenticity.
Episode Links:
- CharleneElsby.com
- PURCHASE Violent Faculties
- IG: @charlene_elsby
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on the show I'm thrilled to welcome musician and actor Liv Rylan. I've become a fan of hers since I discovered her music a few months back. Check it out on Spotify.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- LivRylan.com
- IG: @livrylan
Dive into the world of film editing with Lucas Harger on the latest episode of Salt Lake Dirt. Discover the journey behind the scenes of two extraordinary sports documentaries Lions of Mesopotamia and Clemente, both set to premiere at South by Southwest. Join us as Lucas shares his unconventional path from making wakeboarding videos to cutting feature-length documentaries, the art of storytelling through editing, and the powerful narratives that unite and inspire through sports.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
LucasJHarger.com
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome Sal Velez Jr. (actor/executive producer) and Larry Krask (executive producer/actor/restaurateur). We talk about their latest film Switch Up which will premiere at SXSW this year. With anecdotes from their diverse careers, including stints at Second City and heart-stopping moments on the set of Black Summer, this episode is a celebration of creativity and resilience. Don't miss this heartwarming and hilarious journey behind the scenes of an indie film that is about to capture audiences at one of the biggest film festivals in Texas.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Switch Up at SXSW
- IG: @salvelezjr
- 49er Saloon (Larry's Restaurant in Acton, CA)
Join Kyler Bingham for an intimate conversation with author Erik Fuhrer, whose latest collection Geller Studies weaves a tapestry of personal narratives through the surprising muse of Sarah Michelle Gellar's characters. From Buffy the Vampire Slayer to I Know What You Did Last Summer, Erik reveals how these iconic roles enabled them to unlock and articulate their own experiences with trauma and gender identity. This episode offers a deep dive into the emotional gravity of pop culture, the cathartic process of writing, and the power of reclaiming one's story through art.---Episode Links: Erik-Fuhrer.com IG: @erikjfuhrer
Join Kyler Bingham as he welcomes Tommy Burke, a seasoned film and television production veteran with a story that transcends the usual Hollywood narrative. In his compelling memoir, Not Just Sunglasses and Autographs, Burke shares the highs and lows of his 30-year career, interwoven with profound life lessons and near-death experiences. From battling cancer while on set to facing Parkinson's, this episode is an inspiring journey through the life of a man who faces life's challenges with optimism and an incredible sense of humor.
Thanks for listening!
Episode Links:
- TommyBurke.com
- PURCHASE Not Just Sunglasses and Autographs
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Ben Tanzer. His novel The Missing will be released on March 21 on 7.13 Books.
With a narrative that alternates between the perspectives of both husband and wife, The Missing offers a raw and intimate look at the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring bonds that tie us together. Tune in as Ben shares the inspiration behind his characters, the challenges of writing dual narratives, and the poignant moments that bridge the gap between fiction and reality.---Book Synopsis:"Gabriel and Hannah's daughter Christa is missing. Has she run away with her older boyfriend or has something worse happened to her? As Gabriel and Hannah wait for the police to find her, they're forced to confront the fissures in their marriage and who they've become as parents and individuals. With Gabriel's alcoholism and womanizing always lurking and Hannah's guilt over possibly pushing her daughter away taking a toll on her mental health, they must decide if they can be better people for each other...whether Christa comes home or not. From the Emmy-award-winning author of Upstate and Orphans, The Missing is a deeply psychological portrait of a marriage that is both full of pathos and frighteningly real."---Episode Links:TanzerBen.comIG: @tanzerben---PURCHASE The Missing from these Independent Bookstores:Exile in Bookville (Chicago)The Book Cellar (Chicago)Volumes Book Cafe (Chicago)
Today on the show I welcome Melissa Shapiro. Melissa is a veterinarian, author, and animal advocate. Her life changed when, along with her husband Warren, they adopted a one pound deaf-blind puppy named Piglet.
We talk about her journey with Piglet, from fostering to creating an educational movement. I was fascinated to hear how Piglet's challenges became a source of strength, leading to a memoir, a children's book and a nonprofit dedicated to teaching resilience and inclusivity (Piglet Mindset).
Amazing chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Piglet Mindset
- PURCHASE Piglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family
- PURCHASE the children's bookPiglet Comes Home
- Piglet Mindset for Educators
- IG: @pinkpigletpuppy
- FB: @pinkpigletpuppy
- TikTok: @pinkpigletpuppy
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome writer and musician Tara Giancaspro. I had a blast talking with Tara about her writing process, the pros and cons of Substack, and how she unexpectedly began creating music.
Great chat! Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Artist Bio:
Tara Giancaspro is the creator of xoxo Gossip Giancaspro, a weekly Substack including personal essays, pop culture commentary, and the various and sundry of her silly little life. She has released music under the name Sweaty Lamarr, available to stream everywhere, including "Abbey, I'm Sorry I Stole Your Man," a Jolene sequel from Jolene's perspective. She has been published in Wig-Wag Mag and Drunk Monkeys Literary, is a Cancer sun, and got bit by adolphin once - establishing a potentially generational blood feud. Giancaspro can be found on Instagram and Twitter at @SweatyLamarr. She is based in NewJersey, if you couldn't tell by the hair.
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Episode Links:
Subscribe to Tara's Substack
Twitter: @SweatyLamarr
IG: @SweatLamarr
Today I welcome back actor, writer, and director Alison Rich to the show. Her short film Pathologicalrecently screened at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. When I heard that Alison had another film at Sundance (previously Training Wheels in 2022) I made it a priority to check it out.
The short film is hilarious and thought provoking. I look forward to more projects from Alison in the future.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Logline:
A compulsive liar's fabrications suddenly come to life, confronting her with the fantastical reality she created through deception.
Episode Links:
- AlisonRich.com
- IG: @alisonrich123
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- SUBRCRIBE to our Substack
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2024 Slamdance Film Festival
*THE DEATH TOUR*
One of SLD's Top Picks this Year!
Step behind the scenes of the documentary film The Death Tour. Today's episode offers a front-row seat to the passion, pain, and glory of a wrestling tour like no other. Hear directly from the creators and wrestling icons who bared their souls on screen, discussing the film's inception, the emotional bonds formed with communities, and the indomitable spirit that drives them to perform in the harshest conditions. It's a testament to the spirit of wrestling and the power of storytelling that transcends the screen.
Synopsis:
Each winter, a gang of professional wrestlers leaves Winnipeg on a wrestling trip through remote indigenous communities of Northern Manitoba. Wrestling insiders call it the “Death Tour” - both for the physical hardships endured on the road and the emotional toll it takes on those who experience it. Famous for its star-studded alumni, the trip offers wrestlers a chance to see if they have what it takes to make it in pro wrestling. The Death Tour is a meditation on the inner strength some discover when alone, exhausted and pushed to the limit. This deeply personal documentary travels through Canada’s frozen North and into the wrestlers’ minds as they battle the elements, each other, and the impacts of our colonial past. The wrestlers and their fans come together over their shared love of wrestling. They’re both fighting for their futures and searching to heal themselves along the way.
Episode Links:
DeathTourDoc.com
Film Trailer
IG: @deathtourdoc
Guests on this Episode:
- Stephan Peterson - Director - @stephanpetersonofficial
- Sonya Ballantyne - Co-Director - @sonya_ballantyne
- Sage Morin "The Matriarch" - @deadliestdiva
- Sean Dunster "Massive Damage" - @tattooed.terminator
- Levi Night - @levi_night
Today on the show I welcome filmmaker and photographer Ilya Popenko. His film Roll Bus Roll: A Jeffrey Lewis Documentary is one of my top picks from both Sundance and Slamdance this year. If you have the chance to see this film in person (or through the Slamdance Channel), please do so. I highly recommend it!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Synopsis:
Roll Bus Roll casts an eye at the life and art of Jeffrey Lewis, one of the most prominent musicians associated with NYC's anti-folk scene.The film opens with an exploration of the anti-folk, offering a glimpse into the unique movement that challenges traditional folk conventions. Then the viewer follows Jeffrey on tour, across cities and continents. Jeffrey, is a self-deprecating genius, introduced through contrasting narratives: his own modest self-assessment, and the views of fans and fellow artists such as Adam Green.The documentary reaches its emotional climax as Jeffrey opens up about a lost love, revealing his mental health struggles that impacted his relationship.
SLAMDANCE Screenings:
- Sat, Jan 20th, 2:30 PM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
- Wed, Jan 24th, 10:00 AM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Slamdance Tickets
- Film Trailer
- PopenkoPhoto.com
- IG: @definitely_not_ilya_popenko
Join us with filmmaker Giuseppe Garau, whose feature film, L'Incidente (The Accident), had its North American premiere at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival. Discover the enthralling narrative of a single mother's transformation through loss and resilience, captured through the lens of traditional film—without the safety net of modern technology. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the creative mind that pushes the boundaries of storytelling, the courage it takes to trust in the unseen, and the universal threads that connect audiences across the globe.
Synopsis:
After being fired, Marcella, a gentle hearted mother going through separation, buys a tow truck; she gets trapped deeper and deeper in a cynical and aggressive world until a terrible opportunity shines in front of her.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
Film Website
IG: @storiadelfantasma
Slamdance Tickets
Episode 227: Interview with Filmmakers/Cast of Daruma
Immerse yourself in the groundbreaking journey of Daruma, a film that defies conventional storytelling by featuring two leads with disabilities in a narrative about the human condition. Join Kyler Bingham at Slamdance 2024 as he sits down with the passionate team behind this cinematic marvel. Discover the emotional roller-coaster from conception to the screen, the authentic casting triumphs, and the industry barriers shattered along the way. This episode is not just a behind-the-scenes look; it's a testament to the power of inclusive storytelling and the relentless spirit of independent filmmaking.
Synopsis:
Daruma follows PATRICK (wheelchair user) who discovers he has a four-year-old daughter from a one-night stand years ago. He agrees to take her and becomes the beneficiary of her mother’s life insurance policy, but soon discovers he’s not fit to parent and that she’d do better living with her maternal grandparents on the East Coast. Unable to drive and reluctant to fly for fear of damaging his chair, Patrick enlists the help of his cantankerous neighbor ROBERT (double amputee) to drive them. Along the way, they discover the meaning of self-sacrifice, forgiveness and what it truly means to be a family. Daruma is a heart-warming tale of how to pick yourself up and move forward in life when it seems impossible. DARUMA has been lauded for its authenticity and is the first known feature film to star two leads with disabilities in a narrative not about overcoming a disability.
Episode Links:
Linktree: @darumamovie
IG: @darumamovie
Slamdance Info
GUESTS:
Alexander Yellen (Director/Cinematographer)
John W. Lawson (Actor)
Kelli McNeil-Yellen (Writer/Producer)
Abigail Hawk (Actor/Associate Producer)
Marc Dahlstrom (First Assistant Director)
Lauren Appelbaum: (RespectAbility - Non Profit Organization)
One of my favorite films from Slamdance this year is All I've Got & Then Some. While in Park City I had the chance to talk to the creative team behind the film. Rasheed Stephens and Tehben Dean join me to talk about how the film came about and their experience so far at Slamdance.
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Synopsis:
Based on a true story, All I've Got & Then Some follows a day in the life of Rasheed, a homeless stand-up comedian living out of his car in Los Angeles, giving everything he’s got to make his dreams come true.
Having booked his first paid stand-up gig, this day is special for Rasheed, but what should be a smooth day quickly turns into a circus of events that could ruin his shot at getting his first big break.
Supported by his best friend Rose, Rasheed stumbles through the untimely and often bizarre twists and turns of the day as he criss-crosses Hollywood, relentlessly reminding us that each day can be the best day of our lives.
Episode Links:
- Film Website
- Linktree: @AllIveGotAndThenSome
- IG: @allivegotandthensome
- Slamdance Screening Info.
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt we are live at the Slamdance Film Festival, where the film African Giants is making waves. Hear from the creative forces, Omar S.Kamara (writer/director/producer) and Leo Blumberg-Woll (producer), as they reveal the inspiration behind their film's authentic dialogue and the intense casting process that found "the Ugandan Marlon Brando." Explore the challenges and triumphs of indie filmmaking, from securing a unique house location to the emotional resonance of their Slamdance premiere. This is a behind-the-scenes look at indie cinema that you won't want to miss.
Synopsis:
Alhaji (28), an aspiring actor living in Los Angeles, is visited for a weekend by his younger brother, Sheku (25), a law student. Unknown to Alhaji, Sheku has come with a specific intention: to reveal the secret that he will be dropping out of law school and moving to LA to pursue acting, just like his older brother. Over the course of the weekend the brother’s relationship is tested and tensions rise as they converse about a variety of subjects with differing views and life philosophies. Alhaji pushes back on Sheku’s newfound dream as the facade of his own life begins to show. When bad news leads Alhaji to put himself in a precarious position, Sheku, the younger brother, comes to his aid and is a hero to his normally domineering older brother. Sheku leaves for the weekend and both brothers realize their relationship has changed for the better forever.
Episode Links:
PURCHASE Slamdance Tickets
Omar's Website
IG: @africangiantsfilm
IG: @oskamara
IG: @lennyynardo
Today on the show I am thrilled to welcome writer and historian Sam Wasson. Sam is my favorite Hollywood historian. He is the author of several fantastic books including Fifth Avenue, 5 a.m. and The Big Goodbye. He co-authored Hollywood: The Oral History with film scholar and educator Jeanine Basinger. Sam's latest book is The Path to Paradise: A Francis Ford Coppola Story.
I had such a great time chatting with Sam. We talk about our mutual love for early Hollywood, Coppola's company American Zoetrope, and how Sam came to publish a limited run of Bruce Wagner's masterpiece The Marvel Universe.
Amazing chat! Make sure to check out Sam's new book.
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
SamWasson.com
PURCHASE a signed copy of The Path to Paradise
Felix Farmer
PURCHASE The Marvel Universe by Bruce Wagner
Discover the profound connection between humans and canines in Dog Spelled Backwards. Join Kyler Bingham as he delves into the heart of dog rescue with filmmaker and dog trainer Tim Almeida. Their conversation uncovers the stark realities of shelter life and the transformative power of patience and love in rehabilitating rescue dogs. This episode is not just a story about dog training. It's a narrative about the human condition, our capacity to cope with loss, and the unexpected lessons our four-legged friends teach us about life.
Synopsis:
Tim Almeida is a certified professional dog trainer, having begun his work in Los Angeles county in 2018. After rescuing a dog named Alger from a local animal shelter, Tim was forced to make the painstaking decision to euthanize his dog after Alger attacked a young baby being held in her mothers arms. This life changing event catapulted Tim into the Animal Shelter/Rescue world and the work it involves, inspiring the vision for the documentary series, "Dog Spelled Backwards." Highlighting animal shelter cases, the film navigates the difficult and often heartbreaking landscape known as "Animal Rescue." More importantly, viewers learn first hand the challenges of working with dogs living in animal shelters
Episode Links:
- TrainingWithTim.net
- IG: @dogspelledbackwards_official
Slamdance Screening Information:
- Mon, Jan 22nd, 5:15 PM @ The LUMIX Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
- Tue, Jan 23rd, 7:15 PM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
2024 Slamdance Film Festival:
Dive into the world of Love and Work, a film that defies the norm with its dystopian yet comedic take on a society where working is illegal. Join Kyler as he sits down with multifaceted filmmaker Pete Ohs to discuss the conception of this fascinating film. From the eerie allure of a shoe factory setting to the film's striking black and white visuals, get ready to explore a narrative that challenges our cultural relationship with work and the haunting beauty of a world turned upside down.
Love and Work will screen at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival.
PURCHASE Tickets below:
- Sat, Jan 20th, 6:45 PM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
- Thu, Jan 25th, 2:15 PM @ The LUMIX Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
Synopsis:
Diane arrives at the shoe factory looking for a job. She meets the boss, nails the interview and gets hired on the spot, immediately joining a small team of co-workers led by a helpful Texan named Fox.
She’s great at her job but before her first day of work ends, the factory gets shut down, the boss is in big trouble and all the employees are suddenly unemployed.
Because in this world, manufacturing is prohibited and it's illegal to employ or be employed. That means no jobs. Unfortunately, Diane and Fox love to work.
Together, Diane and Fox seek employment and in the process, fall in love. But balancing love and work is easier said than done.
Join us as we catch up with the creative team behind Fishing, a short film that will screen at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival. Director Josie Charles and writer/actor Esme Allen discuss the evolution of their film, the intimacy of a camcorder storytelling approach, and the emotional depth required to bring the character Lola to life. Learn about the meticulous planning and raw emotion that went into this single-take narrative, and why this film is not just a story, but an experience that defies the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.
Incredible film, check it out!
Synopsis:
A dark comedy exploring female sexuality and the impact of pornography, ‘fishing’ is a single-take short film shot on a camcorder.
It’s 2006. Lola has been stuck in her room for three days and refuses to leave. She plays around with a camcorder, but is rudely interrupted by her Mum, nagging her to come out. Alone again, Lola tells a tale of whirlwind romance that culminates in a rather disappointing ‘first time’. But before she can reveal the climax of this journey, another knock at the door. This time it’s her dearest friend Amy with concerns about Lola’s safety, forcing her to confess the truth of her confinement.
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Slamdance Tickets
- IG: @fishingshortfilm
- Linktree: fishingshortfilm
Slamdance Screenings of Fishing:
- Sun, Jan 21st, 10:00 AM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
- Tue, Jan 23rd, 1:00 PM @ The LUMIX Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia Garcia Williams, the creative force behind the film Legend of El Cucuy. The film will screen at the 20424 Slamdance Film Festival. Cynthia talks about the folklore that inspired her work, the emotional journey of parenting and its reflection in her storytelling. Hear how an origin story of a feared villain became a tale of empathy and the human condition. Great film, great chat!Thanks for listening.Kyler---Episode Links: Cynthia's website IG: @cynthiagwilliams IG: @legendofelcucuy---Slamdance screenings: Fri, Jan 19th, 8:45 PM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel Mon, Jan 22nd, 6:30 PM @ The Student Union Theater @ University of Utah
In this episode, we welcome back filmmaker Jack Dunphy to discuss his Sundance-bound film, Bob's Funeral. Jack is one of my favorite guests so I had to have him on for a full length episode.
Jack talks about the eight-year creative process that brings him back the Sundance Film Festival this year.
Great film, amazing chat.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Logline:
Searching for the root of generational trauma, the director takes a camera into his estranged grandfather’s funeral.
Episode Links:
- WATCH Jack's previous films
- PURCHASE Tickets to the Sundance screenings
- IG: @jackfreemandunphy
Today on the show we have E'an Verdugo (Director/Writer) and Caleb Davis (Writer/Prodcuer), the creative minds behind Restorage, an episodic film that will screen at this year's Slamdance Film Festival.
Great film, great chat!
Kyler
Synopsis:
A fractured group of siblings each receive a portion of their inheritance. Robert receives the business legacy, Lisa is given the family estate and a priceless family heirloom, and Chase, receives an old storage unit filled with junk. Chase and Robert quarrel and he inadvertently breaks the vase causing a greater rift in the family.
Chase goes to the storage unit and discovers that it can repair anything that has been broken that has been placed inside. Chase takes his siblings to the storage unit in an attempt to fix the broken vase but everything goes mysteriously sideways.
Episode Links:
- Trailer
- PURCHASE Slamdance Tickets
- IG: @restorage.tv
- IG: @eanverdugo
- IG: @calebkeithdavis
Slamdance Screenings:
- Mon, Jan 22nd, 5:15 PM @ The LUMIX Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
- Tue, Jan 23rd, 7:15 PM @ The Summer and David Theater @ The Yarrow Hotel
Today on Salt Lake Dirt, filmmaker Radha Mehta joins me to talk about her film Dosh. Radha shares her compelling story of transforming personal trauma and the challenges into an evocative film that tackles the taboos of mental health and physical disability. Discover how her South Asian roots and a partnership with AFI helped her create a narrative that's as authentic as it is impactful. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about film, storytelling, and the human spirit's resilience.
Dosh will screen at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival on Saturday January 20th at 12:45pm and Wednesday January 24th at 4:00pm. Grab your tickets HERE.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Logline:
DOSH, which means both "flaw" and "fault" in Hindi, is about a Hard-of-Hearing South Asian woman who overcomes her cultural taboo of shame by choosing to stop at nothing to save her family, which in turn ends up saving herself. This is an immigrant story about love, family, and overcoming cultural taboos around mental health and physical disability.
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Slamdance tickets
- Official Trailer
- DoshFilm.com
- LinkTree - @doshfilm
- IG: @dosh.film
- IG: @radhamehta
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- SUBRCRIBE to our Substack
- Listen on the radio at KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Dive into the darkly humorous world of The Coroner's Assistant with writer-director Angeline Walsh as she unveils the intriguing Victorian London setting of her web series. Discover the accidental journey of medical student James Rigby into the macabre trade of cadavers, all wrapped in a comedic package. Explore the challenges of creating an authentic period piece on a budget and the serendipitous moments that brought the talented cast together. Listen to how a passion for history, storytelling, and iconic films like 'Jurassic Park' and 'The Mummy' shaped Angeline's creative path, leading to an award-nominated web series that's captivating audiences on YouTube.
The Coroner's Assistant has been nominated twice for an Astra Award. One for Best Writing in a Streaming Comedy Series, while her Costume Designer Aimee Morgan is a contender for a Creative Arts Nomination for Best Period Costumes. The Astra Awards will take place on January 8th, 2024 in Hollywood.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
WATCH The Coroner's Assistant
More about the series
FOLLOW Angeline on Social Media
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- SUBRCRIBE to our Substack
- Listen on the radio at KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
In the latest episode, Adam Roberts discusses his new book, The Death of Sir Martin Malprelate, a novel where the classics come alive. Explore a re-imagined London where the greatest literary minds coexist, and a mysterious death unfolds a story of intrigue and suspense. Listen as Roberts gives an intriguing glimpse into the making of a novel that promises to captivate fans of history, literature, and mystery alike.
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE from Datura Books
- Twitter/X: @arrroberts
- Forbidden Planet (Bookstore in London)
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- SUBRCRIBE to our Substack
- Listen on the radio at KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome poet Clem Flowers to the show. Clem is originally from the South but now calls Salt Lake City home. We talk about some of their collections such as LUSH EYED// BLEED MOONSHINE, New Pansies For The Blue Dogs, and I'VE BEEN GOING THRU SOME THINGS. When I started reading Clem's work, I completely fell in love with it. I encourage you to check it out! Links below.
Clem even wrote a poem for Salt Lake Dirt called Instruments of Lavender, which I was completely blown away by. I'm honored and will treasure this act of generosity forever. Thank you Clem. Scroll to the bottom to read it.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Twitter (X): @clem_flowers
- PURCHASE: I've Been Going Through Some Things
- Naked Cat Publishing
Instruments of Lavender
[For Salt Lake Dirt]
Feel the warm earth beneath
aching hands & tired arches
Br e a th e
D e e p
Whip up feel your heart wrapped around a vienesse waltz light
snatches down your spine hunger
shines high in your skull & the poor
soul aches for a
new freedom inches away & then
it's dawn - the streetlights have all
been snatched away. You still see
the moon over the mountains
& grin
the blue dogs sing
you “Mojo Pin” by
Jeff Buckley as
you drift back
to sleep
Cacti blue flax sage
they'll keep you
safe & warm all day
Today on the show I welcome back writer Mallory Smart. I recently read her new novel I Keep My Visions to Myself, and I absolutely loved it! I know that our regular listeners will too. Highly recommended!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline:
"Step into Stevie's world, a 26-year-old musician on the brink of fame. A tour offer catapults her into an existential voyage through life's intricate maze. Within this tense spiritual journey, Stevie confronts the age-old dilemma of fame versus the safety of a simpler existence, all while searching for her elusive tribe."
---Episode Links:
- MallorySmart.com
- PURCHASE I Keep My Visions to Myself
- Textual Healing (Podcast)
- That Horrorcast (Podcast)
- IG: @malsmart
Salt Lake Dirt Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- SUBSCRIBE to our Substack Newsletter
- SLD's BookShop
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
PUCHASE I Keep My Visions to Myself
MallorySmart.com
SUBSCRIBE to Mallory's Podcasts
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler interviews Carla Malden about her powerful new novel My Two and Only. They dive into the book's exploration of love, loss, and reinvention as a widow struggles with expectations to move on. Carla provides fascinating details about the four-year writing process and how she drew from personal experience. Their thought-provoking discussion touches on relationships as identity, the challenges of change, and craft elements like perspective. This conversation will resonate with anyone who has grappled with profound loss or the journey of redefining oneself.
Episode Links:
- CarlaMalden.com
- IG: @carlamalden
- PURCHASE My Two and Only from Diesel Bookstore
- PURCHASE from Amazon
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
FilmQuest Episode #37
GUEST: Ben Davis
FILM: The Jellyfish Man
—
Logline: Spencer’s neighbor refuses to turn off his music, but it’s unclear who is disturbing the peace.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
WATCH the film beginning 11/28/23 on Omeleto
TheJellyfishMan.com
IG: @this.bendavis
This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I talk with author Daniel Weizmann about his writing journey from the LA punk scene to his most recent novel The Last Songbird, a mystery involving a Lyft driver and a famous folk singer.
Great book, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Synopsis:
"A struggling songwriter and Lyft driver, Adam Zantz’s life changeswhen he accepts a ride request in Malibu and 1970s music icon Annie Linden enters his dented VW Jetta. Bonding during that initial ride, the two quickly go off app— over the next three years, Adam becomes her exclusive driver and Annie listens to his music, encouraging Adam even as he finds himself driving more often than songwriting.
Then, Annie disappears, and her body washes up under a pier. Left with a final, cryptic text— ‘come to my arms’— a grieving Adam plays amateur detective, only to be charged as accomplice-after-the-fact. Desperate to clear his name and discover who killed the one person who believed in his music when no one else in his life did, Adam digs deep into Annie’s past, turning up an old guitar teacher, sworn enemies and lovers, and a long-held secret that spills into the dark world of a shocking underground Men’s Rights movement. As he drives the outskirts of Los Angeles in California, Adam comes to question how well he, or anyone else, knew Annie— if at all.
The Last Songbird is a poignant novel about love, obsession, the price of fame and the burden of broken dreams, with a shifting, twisting plot that's full of unexpected turns."
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE The Last Songbird
- www.danielweizmann.com
- IG: @danielweizmann
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
This week's episode of Salt Lake Dirt features an in-depth interview with Charles Mudede, director and co-writer of the new film Thin Skin. Charles provides fascinating behind-the-scenes details on the film's inspiration from Ahamefule J. Oluo's off-Broadway show Now I'm Fine, the years-long process of writing and fundraising, and finishing post-production during the pandemic.
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Synopsis:
Ahamefule Joe Oluo's days are spent at a soul-deadening corporate job and his nights come alive behind a trumpet at Seattle jazz clubs. As he struggles to climb out of the ruins of his broken marriage, Aham has to deal with endless bureaucracy, a boss trying to lead him to the Lord, and his mother who won't cut ties with his ex. Aham is living with his entire family once again in his sister's cramped one bedroom apartment. The one person missing from this living situation is Aham's estranged Nigerian father. His brief reappearance sends the family into a tailspin and a search for meaning. Pressed together in this vise of a home, the family struggles with adult life and the meaning of family.
Episode Links:
- ThinSkinMovie.com
- IG: @thinskinmovie
- FB: @thinkskinmovie
- Film Trailer
Events:
- Seattle Screening | November 16-19, with special Q&A on Nov. 18
- Los Angeles Screening | November 16
- New York Screening | November 30
- VOD RELEASE DATE 11.28.2023
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #36
GUEST: Joe Gietl & Cameron S. Mitchell
FILM: The Fledgling
—
Synopsis: Orphan Charlie wakes up in a hospital bed with a mysterious health condition that makes her averse to sunlight, and a hazy recollection of how she got there. If she is to survive, she will have to put the pieces of the night together in the shadows and avoid the light.
—
Episode Links:
- Film Trailer
- www.fledglingseries.com
- IG: @fledglingseries
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #36
GUEST: Kelsey Edwards
FILM: Box Boy
—
Synopsis: A boy raised in a rigid, beige society where boxes define life meets a colorful girl who changes the way he views the world.
—
Episode Links:
Pillar.io
IG: @kelseymarieedwards
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #35
GUEST: Ryan Couldrey
FILM: You Have Reached Your Destination
—
Synopsis: With the Google Maps app leading him in circles, a man suspects his phone is purposely lying to him.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @rycouldrey
YouTube: @ryancouldrey
Lexi Kent-Monning joins me to talk about her new book The Burden of Joy. From her career in the music business to her writing process we covered a lot of ground in this episode. I had a blast!
You can purchase a copy of The Burden of Joy HERE.
Great chat, amazing book!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Synopsis:
Lexi Kent-Monning’s debut novel, The Burden of Joy, is an incessant dagger to the heart. After Lexi’s husband leaves her on Valentine’s Day to join a commune that time forgot, her home stops belonging to her. Instead, she discovers a parade of dead animals, a man who turns her blue eyes green, true love in equal parts cocaine and MDMA, and a revolving door of solitude. In the end, Lexi must ask herself, is her craving to nurture virtuous or hedonistic? (Rejection Letters, 11.01.23)
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE The Burden of Joy
- LexiKentMonning.com
- IG: @lexicola
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
This week Reuben Dendinger joins me to discuss his new book Cursed Images. I absolutely loved this collection of short stories. Highly recommended!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Cursed Images (Hyperidean Press, August 31, 2023) is a dream-journal of late capitalism in 13 stories, a Gothic tarot of desire and fear. Driven by the cruelty of market society into wildernesses of neurasthenic horror, artists and lovers seek out phantoms of forgotten beauty in this epic compendium, equal parts satire and nightmare.
---
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Cursed Images
- IG: @grimoire.91
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome Christopher Wells and Daniel Rolnick to talk about their film Stories For My Children’s Children: Lessons from the Holocaust.
This is a beautiful and heartbreaking film that I HIGHLY recommend.
Great chat, incredible film.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
LOGLINE: This isn’t a Holocaust documentary; it’s a personal tale about two people, the horrors that befell them and how their survival can influence the next generation.
UPCOMING SCREENINGS:
Nov 8th at 8PM at Cinema Village in Manhattan
Episode Links:
- KPictures.com
- Trailer
- IG: @kpictures_nyc
- IG: @wellschristopher
- FB: @storiesformychildrenschildren
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
--
FilmQuest Episode #34
GUEST: Russell Goldman
FILM: Closing Time
—
Synopsis: An estranged friend surprises his old college buddies with an unusual reunion.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @russell_goldman
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #33
GUEST: Nicholas Acosta & Bill Moldt
FILM: Alone
—
Synopsis: After a catastrophic disaster at a Mars research station, a fearless astronaut finds herself adrift in deep space, where she encounters a mysterious entity.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @unrenderedmedia
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #32
GUEST: Zack Hosseini
FILM: A Cotton Moon
—
Synopsis: A feckless loner uncovers cryptic TV broadcasts of a mysterious deity (Academy Award-nominee Eric Roberts) whose teachings inspire a strange and radical holy awakening.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @zack.hosseini
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #31
GUEST: Dan Shapiro FILM: Escape Attempt
—
Synopsis: A soldier escaping a WWII concentration camp finds himself on an unknown planet in a distant future only to discover a frozen gulag controlled by a brutal alien race.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @aggressivetv /// @escapeattempt
SLD Podcast Info:
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #30
GUEST: Phillip McLaughlin
FILM: Toad Boy
—
Synopsis: A concerned principal reaches out to a troubled student but quickly learns helping the boy may require a sacrifice he’s unwilling to make.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @shorrorts (Film) @potatolover (Director)
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #29
GUEST: Moe Najati
FILM: Ensouled
—
Synopsis: Clara, burdened by grief, embarks on a soul-stirring journey of self-discovery at Eternia. She forms an unexpected bond with a enigmatic man along the way, blurring reality’s boundaries and leaving her questioning the essence of existence.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @moenajati
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #28
GUEST: Michael Rich
FILM: The Queue
—
Synopsis: An internet content moderator confronts the darkness within the videos he screens.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @mikerichfilms
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #27
GUEST: Nabil Chowdhary
FILM: Recollector
—
Synopsis: A futuristic detective (a Recollector) attempts to solve a murder case by infiltrating the victim’s last moments of life, while dealing with the mental anguish and torment his profession brings.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @recollector_film
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #26
GUEST: Liang-Chun Lin
FILM: A Dire Straight
—
Synopsis: A new Taiwanese mother tries to survive the strictest postpartum tradition and follows all the family rules, but soon realizes that she needs to escape.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @a_dire_strait
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #25
GUEST: Amy Geist
FILM: Dysmorphia
—
Synopsis: After Isabella, a destitute beauty-addict, fakes cancer to pay for her next cosmetic surgery, she is haunted by a shadow figure demanding it’s penance of flesh. This film takes a terrifying look at a woman’s relationship to her body and the horrors women self-inflict for acceptance.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @amygeist_la
www.amyelizabethgeist.com
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #24
GUEST: Sam Fox & Desiree Staples
FILM: Fck'n Nuts (Short)
—
Synopsis: Sandy is grievously forced to break it off with the boy of her dreams in order to avert him from meeting her unusual parents.
—
Episode Links:
SamFoxyFilms.com
IG: @samfoxyfilms // @theothersamfox
IG: @desireestaples
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #23
GUESTs: Toby Trueman & Remo Catani (Producers) David Lumsden (director)
FILM: Lure
—
Synopsis: A young man fleeing difficulties in his hometown, takes work on a remote farm. Suspecting the farmer of abusing his young daughter, he attempts to rescue her, with devastating results.
Episode Links:
Nickie-Ben.com
IG: _nickie.ben_
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #22
GUEST: Steve Stay
FILM: HANNAH
—
Synopsis: With the world about to end, Marshall convinces a group of friends and strangers to help finish the sci-fi movie he abandoned in high school.
—
Episode Links:
YouTube: @HannahHarborPhoto
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #21
GUEST: Andrew Adams
FILM: American Meltdown
—
Synopsis: A ‘Millennial Coming-of-Rage’ dark comedy about a young woman who loses her job and struggles to pay rent – until she befriends a pickpocket who convinces her that the only way to survive in America is by committing petty crime.
—
Episode Links:
Virtual Screening Tickets
IG: @wanderadams
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #20
GUEST: Jack Hessler & DJ Teo
FILM: Sacrament
—
Synopsis: In the 1950s, two religious young men go on a camping trip together. As their forbidden love for each other begins to boil into reality, Belford battles with his inner truth and inner demons.
—
Episode Links:
IG: Jack Hessler - @jah_he
IG: DJ Teo - @mateowns
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #19
GUEST: Clara Aranovich
FILM: Murder Camp
—
Synopsis: Two slasher serial killers make the shameful error of serial killing at the same summer camp on the same night, challenging the very fabric of their friendship… and identities.
—
Episode Links:
claraaranovich.com/
IG: @claranovich
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #18
GUEST: Nathan Blackwell
FILM: The Last Movie Ever Made
—
Synopsis: With the world about to end, Marshall convinces a group of friends and strangers to help finish the sci-fi movie he abandoned in high school.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @lastmovieevermade
SquishyStudios.com
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #17
GUESTS: Michael Seabolt & Greg Schroeder
FILM: Zombie Strain
—
SYNOPSIS: During the zombie apocalypse, a group of survivors trapped in a sound stage makes an amazing discovery about a potent strain of marijuana. But tensions rise, mistakes are made, and they start to wonder — who’s more dangerous, the undead or each other?
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @zombie_strain // @officiallyseabolt // @gschro01
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #16
GUEST: Julie Sharbutt
FILM: Scam
—
Synopsis: When a phone scammer makes one last late night call, the woman on the other end gives her much more than she bargained for.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @scam_short_film
JulieSharbutt.com
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #15
GUEST: Trevor Free
FILM: ITIIITIATIIHYLIHYL
—
Synopsis: A woman finds herself caught up in a surreal, existential journey.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @tfreefilm @blackrabbitmonolith
IG: @blackshapemusic
Music Video: BLACKSHAPE - ITIIITIATIIHYLIHYL
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #14
GUEST: Ramone Menon
FILM: My Scary Indian Wedding
—
Synopsis: A cursed Bridesmaid is forced to track down and marry her soulmate to escape the wrath of a malevolent demon called The Manglik.
—
Episode Links:
IG: @ramonemenon
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
---
FilmQuest Episode #13
GUEST: Pablo Pagán
FILM: Voyager
—
Synopsis: A truck driver discovers the ability to abandon her body, and travel the world outside the boundaries of her physical self.
—
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @pablo.pagan01 // @voyager.cortometraje
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possible could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #13
GUEST: Patrick Hogan & Ana Krista Johnson
FILM: Quiet! Mom's Working!
--
SYNOPSIS: One happens in mom’s basement…stays in mom’s basement.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @ppatrickhogan
We are very excited to be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I possibly could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #11
GUEST: Marcia Alderson
FILM: The Hyperborean
SYNOPSIS: A whisky magnate summons his family to sample his legacy product: moonshine recovered from the hold of a 170 year old Arctic ghost ship.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @collingwoodfilmco
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #10
GUEST: James H. Lee
FILM: The Inflection Scheme
---
SYNOPSIS: A crypto trader is in way over his head when he makes a $10M bet at a nefarious crypto exchange and has to deal with a protégé from his past.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @inflectionmovie
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #9
GUEST: Brian Lonano
FILM: Content: The Lo-Fi Man
---
SYNOPSIS: “CONTENT:The Lo-Fi Man” starts as a documentary about a beloved cult film, then turns into a YouTube video until it escapes into a dystopian sci fi adventure, upon which it transforms into a body horror film resulting in a kaiju battle finale.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
BrianLonano.com
IG: @brianlonano
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #8
GUEST: Renetta Amador
FILM: Gummies
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SYNOPSIS: A tomboy transforms the gender trappings of her childhood to show her cruel mother how sugar and spice don’t equal nice.
IG: @invinciblechica
IG:@mexecutionerproductions
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #7
GUEST: Shane Bannon & Celina Bernstein
FILM: The Perfect Place to Cry
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SYNOPSIS: A woman cries in her car. At the edge of her headlights’ reach, she can just make out the shape of a man. He’s coming closer.
Film Trailer
IG: @pptc_film
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #6
GUEST: Nic Camp
FILM: Hideous Heart
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SYNOPSIS: In this sci-fi retelling of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” a pair of astronauts work on a small space station orbiting a distant planet. As the mysterious narrator attempts to convince himself of his sanity while describing his brutal act of murder, he becomes haunted by a thunderous heartbeat that could only come from the far reaches of space.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #5
GUEST: Itziar Martinez
FILM: TLG
---
SYNOPSIS:
Billy and Tony meet up for a clandestine and passionate sexual encounter. But once the deed is done and the alcohol has already served its purpose, their real intentions slowly start to unravel, revealing a reality much more twisted, sinister, and heartbreaking than we ever imagined.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @iamitziar
IG: @wol.entertainment
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #4
GUEST: Bill Prokopow & Luca Lamacrino
FILM: Entrainment
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SYNOPSIS: For the Main Version: In order to prevent his own death, a broken nightclub owner has 12 hours to learn how to use a device that allows him to see moments into the future.
For the Short Version: Trapped in a fractured quantum realm, a broken nightclub owner fights to regain his memory in order to save himself and the love of his life.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @entrainmentfilm
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #3
GUEST: Lewis Taylor
FILM: Make You Wanna Cry
---
SYNOPSIS:
A young woman discovers her inner power against a patriarchal society in the 1960s.
IG: @louvstheworld
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #2
GUEST: Austin Thomas Wood
FILM: Tower Theater
---
SYNOPSIS: Sarah and her film snob employees decide to blow off their work duties at Tower Theatre to make a horror movie of their own.
For the next week or so we will be covering FilmQuest 2023. This is the festival's 10 year anniversary and I wanted to celebrate it by talking to as many filmmakers as I could.
Great films, incredible conversations!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
FilmQuest Episode #1
GUEST: Gabriel Caste
FILM: Are You Awake?
SYNOPSIS: In this psychological thriller, a detached woman (Ellyn Jameson) working as a door-to-door wake-up caller encounters a client (Paul Archer) refusing to leave his bed, who recounts his terrible nightmares.
Episode Links:
Film Trailer
IG: @gabecaste
Wendy McColm is on the show this week to talk about her new film Fuzzy Head. The film will be released on Tuesday October 24, 2023. Wendy wrote, directed, and starred in Fuzzy Head. I absolutely loved it so make sure to check it out! It was amazing talking with Wendy about this beautiful film.
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Fuzzy Head:
Insomnia-ridden Marla is on the run after the murder of her mother. Marla must confront her everlasting void to find out the truth and at last, undo all that's been done.
---
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Fuzzy Head
- WendyFilms.com
- IG: @wendymccolm
- IG: @fuzzyheadmovie
- Linktree: @fuzzyhead
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
This week on Salt Lake Dirt I talk with filmmaker Daniel Alexander. I've been anticipating his short film Gale ever since I heard about several months ago. You can view the film on the Chilling app. I highly recommend it!
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline: "Long gone are the days of emerald cities and yellow brick roads. The enchanting tale of The Wizard of Oz is about to take a haunting turn."
Episode Links:
- DanielAlexanderFilms.com
- Instagram: @danielalexanderfilms
- Watch GALE on Chilling
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
This week on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Alex Kazemi. Alex is the author of New Millennium Boyz, a novel that completely captivated me from the very beginning. I've honestly never read anything quite like this and in many ways I think that it is ahead of its time. I highly recommend it.Thanks for listening!Kyler---Synopsis:Brad Sela is living an apathetic suburban life in his affluent neighborhood until two new friends drag him down a destructive path toward self-discovery.Freshly seventeen and entering his Y2K senior year, Brad is feeling fatigued by the cookie-cutter image his new-agey Oprah-loving mom and corporate-Boomer dad expect him to maintain, so when the new transfer students, Lu and Shane, invite him out to the woods, he agrees to see what this Baphomet-worshipping goth kid and classic-rock stoner have to offer. Soon, he’s dealing with the delicate balance of a double life, forsaking old friends for his new ones, and secretly embarking on a journey of indulging his darkest impulses—even documenting some of their most dangerous and disturbing exploits on their Handycams. But as their hijinks increase and threaten to expose him, Brad is forced to reconcile who he really is or risk drowning in his downward spiral.At turns hair-raising and harrowing, Alex Kazemi’s thrilling debut novel is an unnerving examination of the collision of traditional masculinity, the early internet, and irresistible pop culture that shaped the turn of the century and transformed the way boys engage with the world. The bastard love child of Bret Easton Ellis and Gregg Araki, New Millennium Boyz presents an uncensored and unsettling portrait of the year 2000 that never could have aired on MTV. (SOURCE: SimonandSchuster.com)---Episode Links:
- Purchase New Millennium Boyz
- AlexKazemi.com
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome filmmaker Andrew Morgan. His documentary film Texas, USA comes out October 6, 2023. I had the chance to see an early screening of the film and absolutely loved it! Definitely check out this important and timely film.Thanks for listening!Kyler---Synopsis:"TEXAS USA is a new film about progressive politics in the state of Texas. It is a David and Goliath story told through the lives of people fighting for change in the face of deeply established opposition. Filming will take place over the course of 2022 amidst local and statewide elections. The audience will be introduced to the deeply human stories of candidates, organizers, and everyday individuals committed to building a more just and inclusive state. The film offers a unique opportunity to capture and create a powerful portrait of what is possible and help inspire a new generation of voters and people fighting for progress everywhere." ---
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome writer, director and actor Emily Ann Zisko to the show. Emily's latest project is a web series entitled Play It By Ear (Season 1 now available on YouTube). Play It By Ear has screened at Dances With Films and HollyShorts and will be at the upcoming 2023 Nashville Film Festival in late September.Great chat, great series! Check it out.Thanks for listening.Kyler---Synopsis:"Play It By Ear," a six-part series centered around a young couple, Mila and Lukas, who struggle to grow together as they start their new lives thousands of miles apart (Los Angeles and Amsterdam). (SOURCE: YouTube, Karen Twins Productions)---Episode Links: STREAM: Play It By Ear: Season 1 Instagram: @playitbyearseries TikTok: @playitbyearseries IG: @emilyannzisko IG: @thekarentwins Screening at Nashville FF: Fri, Sep 29th, 11:00 AM @ Rothschild Black Box Theater, Vanderbilt University ---SLD Podcast Info: www.saltlakedirt.com Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST Listen on APPLE Podcasts Listen on SPOTIFY Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I am thrilled to welcome back one of my favorite authors. Elle Nash joins me to talk about her novel Deliver Me (10.3.23 Unnamed Press). Elle is the author of Animals Eat Each Other, Nudes, and Gag Reflex. She has easily become one of Salt Lake Dirt's top picks. Her name has been mentioned by several other guests on this show as one of the best writers out there. I love Deliver Me and I encourage you to (pre-) order today!Elle currently lives in Scotland and will be on a book tour in the States this October. If you can, make sure to check it out! A list of events are at the bottom of this page.Great book, great chat!Thanks for listening.Kyler---Deliver Me Synopsis:"At a meatpacking facility in the Missouri Ozarks, Dee-Dee and her co-workers kill and butcher 40,000 chickens in a single shift." "The work is repetitive and brutal, with each stab and cut a punishment to her hands and joints, but Dee-Dee’s more concerned with what is happening inside her body. After a series of devastating miscarriages, Dee-Dee has found herself pregnant, and she is determined to carry this child to term. Dee-Dee fled the Pentecostal church years ago, but judgment follows her in the form of regular calls from her mother, whose raspy voice urges Dee-Dee to quit living in sin and marry her boyfriend Daddy, an underemployed ex-con with an insect fetish. With a child on the way, at long last Dee-Dee can bask in her mother’s and boyfriend’s newfound parturient attention. She will matter. She will be loved. She will be complete. When her charismatic friend Sloane reappears after a twenty-year absence, feeding her insecurities and awakening suppressed desires, Dee-Dee fears she will go back to living in the shadows. Neither the ultimate indignity of yet another miscarriage nor Sloane’s own pregnancy deters her: she must prepare for the baby’s arrival." (SOURCE: Unnamed Press)---Episode Links: www.ElleNash.net IG: @saderotica Patreon: @saderotica---Deliver Me Book Tour (2023): September 29 - Third Place Books Ravenna - Seattle, WA. October 1 - Powell's City of Books - Portland, OR. October 5 - North Figueroa Bookshop - Highland Park, CA. October 8 - Stories Book - Los Angeles, CA. October 9 - Franklin Park - NYC. October 11 - The Strand - NYC.---SLD Podcast Info: www.saltlakedirt.com Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST Listen on APPLE Podcasts Listen on SPOTIFY Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on the show I welcome filmmaker Brock Forrette. His short film Swing will be at the Burbank International Film Festival (Sept. 21 - 24, 2023). Swing was one of my top picks from this summer's Wyoming International Film Festival. In Wyoming I had the chance to speak with Mary Riitano, who stars in the film (Listen to Mary's interview HERE).
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
SWING Logline:
"A mysterious package arrives at Paul and Terri's door. What it contains could either save or end their passionless marriage."
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
On today's episode I welcome back artist Dmitry Samarov. His new book To Whom It May Concern can be purchased on his website dmitrysamarov.com. I've become a big fan of Dmitry's work these past few months so it great to catch up with him.
Dmitry is host of the podcast hu u no and co-host for That Horrorcast with Mallory Smart.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE To Whom It May Concern
- DmitrySamarov.com
- IG: samarov_art
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on the show I welcome filmmaker Sara Summa. Sara's film Arthur & Diana will have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
I loved the film! Keep this one on your radar.
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Synopsis:
"Writer-director Sara Summa stars alongside her real-life brother Robin Summa, in this playful auto-fictional road trip from Berlin to Paris."
"Siblings Arthur and Diana are en route from Berlin to Paris in their late father’s Renault with Diana’s adorable two-year-old son in tow. On a mission to renew an expired MOT — a certificate confirming a vehicle’s compliance with road safety and environmental standards — on their shared car, a rusty childhood relic, they also plan on visiting their aging mother along the way.
With no topic off the table, Arthur — who is younger, with a bohemian air, and into geocaching — is adjacent to intense and pragmatic Diana, who’s just looking to get from point A to point B. Between bantering and bickering, and with a flat tire to boot, the pair encounter a beautiful vagabond, have a run-in with the police, party, attend a funeral, and detour through Italy. Charming every step of the way, the family will wind up with a few more friends and hopes than they departed with.
Sara Summa constructs a playful and intimate sophomore feature following her debut The Last to See Them, which screened in the Berlinale’s Forum programme in 2019. A European road movie on the surface, Arthur&Diana is the autofictional brainchild of Summa, who plays the headstrong lead alongside her real-life brother, Robin Summa.
Accompanied by Ben Roessler’s delightful score and shot on MiniDV, Betacam, and 16mm by Faraz Fesharaki (who follows his work on Alexandre Koberidze’s What Do We See When We Look at the Sky?), Arthur&Diana moves constantly between the tension and stasis that bonds all families and sometimes propels us to stay on course." (SOURCE: 2023 TIFF)
Episode Links:
- SaraSumma.com
- 2023 TIFF
- IG: @sara.summa
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome photographer Lisa Johnson. Lisa's work as a rock photographer has given us incredible images of bands like No Doubt, The Vandals, and Nirvana. Today we talk about her iconic image of Bradley Nowell from Sublime, her work with the Punk Rock Museum, and her involvement with the Warped Tour. Lisa's work had a huge impact on the trajectory of my life and we also get into that on the show.
Great chat! Make sure to check out Lisa's photography at the Punk Rock Museum.
Thanks for listening.Kyler
Episode Links:
- IG: @lisajohnsonrockphotographer
- The Punk Rock Museum
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome filmmaker David Flores. His short film Likeness has been on the festival circuit playing at LA Shorts, Chattanooga, and Hollyshorts. It will screen at the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham, Alabama on Saturday August 26, 2023.
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline:
"A young woman works with a digital copy of her mom to investigate the sudden disappearance of her real mom."
Episode Links:
- IG: @davidfloreswrites
- Twitter/X: @dfloreswrites
- IMDb page
- Sidewalk Film Festival
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Mia McDaniel. Her new memoir My Father's Burning in Hell recently came out on Rare Bird Books. A truly powerful book that has stayed with me since I read it. Highly recommended!
Great chat, great book!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- MiaMcDanielMemoir.com
- IG: @miamcdanielmemoir
- Recommended Bookstores: East Village Bookshop, North Figueroa Bookshop, Book Soup
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome film historian Karie Bible. I've been wanting to have Karie on the show for awhile so I was thrilled when we were able to schedule something. She is involved in so many different things connected to the history of Hollywood but I first heard about her work when I discovered the walking tour of Hollywood Forever Cemetery that she conducts (Do yourself a favor and schedule a visit HERE)
We covered a lot of ground talking about the history of Hollywood Forever, some of her favorite silent films, and her Hollywood Kitchen project.
Incredible chat, amazing person!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Linktr.ee: @Kariebible
- Book a tour with Karie at Hollywood Forever: CemeteryTour.comHollywood Kitchen
- PURCHASE Location Filming in Los Angeles through Larry Edmunds Bookshop
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome one of the co-founders of The Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas. Vinnie Fiorello (also a co-founder of Less Than Jake) joins me to talk about how the museum came about, what to expect, and how the place will continue to evolve.
Great guy, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- The Punk Rock Museum
- IG: @thepunkrockmuseum
- For more on Vincent Fiorello
- IG: @wunderlandwar
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I am thrilled to welcome author Frank Bill to the show. His latest novel Back to the Dirt is one of my top picks for 2023. I had a great time talking with Frank about the book, how he manages his writing time, and his father's experiences in Vietnam.
Great chat, great guy! I can't wait to go back and read his other books.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Book Details:
Frank Bill is back with a gritty, wrenching novel from deep inside the traumas of a broken American heartland.
Miles is a Vietnam veteran who’s worried he’s going to lose his job—and with it his tenuous grasp on a stable life—over a fight with a coworker. His PTSD and struggles to control his steroid-fueled violent tendencies also complicate his relationship with his girlfriend, Shelby, a stripper who only occasionally displays the proverbial heart of gold. She’s certainly kinder and more generous than her brother, Wylie, who has been implicated in the deaths of two local Oxy dealers and is currently on the run. When Wylie kidnaps Shelby and holes up in Miles’s country lair, it all threatens to become a bit too much for Miles.
As Frank Bill peels back the layers of Miles’s history, going deep into his memories of the Vietnam War, Back to the Dirt gets to the root of the traumas that have caused Miles and his community so much adversity. In this blistering novel, Bill reaches for the core values—living close to the land, working with your hands—that have been obscured by generations of neglect, drug abuse, and desperation. This is a profound and important story of an America that is only beginning to get its due attention—and Frank Bill is its most visceral, essential chronicler. (SOURCE: Macmillan Publisher)
Episode Links:
MacMillan Publishers
IG: @frank_m_bill_
Bookstores:
PURCHASE a Signed Copy of BACK TO THE DIRT. (Artifact Books)
PURCHASE from The Book Catapult.
SLD Podcast Info:
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome author Fred C. Falcon to talk about his novel The Box.
This is one of my top summer reads this summer. It is epic! I'm half way through and I can't wait to finish it.
For a limited time you can purchase the Kindle version of The Box for only $0.99!Great chat, great book!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
The Box logline:
"All Hopper did was solve a math problem. Now, the Organization is hunting him down, convinced that he can lead them to a device that will alter the world as we know it."
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE The Box(Kindle)
- PURCHASE The Box (Paperback)
- FredFalconAuthor.com
- IG: @fredfalconauthor
- FB: @fredfalconauthor
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on the show I welcome filmmaker Michael Gabriele. Michael has two short films currently making the rounds on the festival circuit. Get Away and Room Tone. Both are unique horror genre films. I feel in love with both of them.
Room Tone recently screened at Dances with Films and Get Away will be playing at LA Shorts this Friday July 28th at 7:45pm.
Great films, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE tickets to LA SHORTS
- MichaelGabrieleDirector.com
- IG: @michaelgabrieledirector
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome cartoonist, playwright and filmmaker Dean Haspiel. Dean is someone I've been wanting to have on the show for awhile now. When I heard that he had a new Kickstarter campaign (Billy Dogma) I jumped at the chance to invite him on to talk about it. If you are going to Comic-Con International in San Diego (July 20-23, 2023) make sure to check out the panels Dean will be on!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- BILLY DOGMA Kickstarter
- Substack - deanhaspiel.substack.com
- IG: @deanhaspiel_art
- Twitter: @deanhaspiel
- FB: @deanhaspielart
Read THE RED HOOK saga for free at Webtoon:
-
1 The Red Hook
-
2 War Cry
-
3 Starcross
-
4 Blackout
-
5 PTSD: Post-Traumatic Superhero Disorder
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
A big takeaway from the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival was hearing Christian Wallowing Bull's music performed live. I've been listening to his music non stop ever since. Christian joins me today to talk about his artistic process. Be sure to check out his website at ChristianWallowingBull.com where you can find videos and streaming links.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- www.ChristianWallowingBull.com
- IG: @christianwallowingbull
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I speak with filmmaker Stephen Purvis. He has an incredible TV pilot that recently screened at Dances with Films. Larry McMurtry's: All My Friends Are Going to Be Strangers - Chapter 1 is based off of the McMurtry book of the same name. I'm excited to see more from this project and it inspired me to finally buy the book!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
WRITTEN/ADAPTED BY: Stephen Purvis
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY Larry McMurtry
DIRECTOR: Stephen Purvis
PRODUCERS: Stephen Semel, Kayli Fortun, Stephen Purvis, Elliott Coulter
CAST: Baxter Gaston, Victoria Jacobsen, Brian McArdle
"In 1969, a young Texas writer attends Eeyore’s birthday party in Austin where he falls in love at first sight. Complications ensue since “a man of honor never robs his host.” Adapted from Larry McMurtry’s autobiographical novel."
---
Episode Links:
StephenPurvisFilms.com
IG: @stephenpurvisfilms
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmakers Tom Procida (director/producer) & Heather Kennedy (writer/producer) about their film My Dear Aunt Sally. Great film, great chat! Thanks for listening. Kyler
Logline: A grade-schooler with crippling anxiety, 8 year old Luke reluctantly spends time with his free spirited Aunt Sally. In the midst of arcades, ketchup stains and axe throwing, he learns the powerful lessons of taking risks, making mistakes and dealing with adversity. Like Sally says, “It’s what you do after the bird shits on you that counts.” Adventure awaits!
Episode Links:
Trailer
2023 WYOIFF Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker Kathi Carey about her film Discovering Ella.
Logline: "The true story of the greatest jazz drummer you've never heard of (Chick Webb) who stumbled upon a 16-year-old singer and nurtured her into a legend." --
2023 WYOIFF Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker June Inuzuka about her film Dirty Rotten Tofu and the Gohan Girls.
Logline: In the Old West, three Asian women fight for their freedom from a Chinatown crime boss who wants them back "Dead or Alive."
Episode Links:
Trailer CowGirlSushi.net IG: @cowgirlsushi
2023 WYOIFF Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker Edward Worthy about his film Rear.
Logline: "When a teacher bruises a child, an objecting mother starts a debate on the use of school corporal punishment in her southern black community."
Episode Links: Trailer IG: edward_worthy YouTube
2023 WYOIFF Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to actress Mary Riitano about her film Swing.
Logline: "A mysterious package arrives at Paul and Terri's door. What it contains could either save or end their passionless marriage."
Episode Links:
Trailer
2023 WYOIFF Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmakers Brandon Carraway & Hannah Grace about their film The Handbook.
Logline: "Two Latter-Day Saint missionaries bring a Book of Mormon to the home of a wicked lady"
Episode Links:
IMDb
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker Jagur Rozell about his film Half Alive in 125.
Logline:
"A nervous mob associate has to spend a night with the corpse of his hit victim, clueless as to what's making all that noise outside his hotel room..."
Episode Links:
- Half Alive in 125 is Currently Available on YouTube.
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmakers Jiayang Liu and Faith Roden. They have two films (The Sun Rises Differently & The Bystander) at the festival this year!
Great films, amazing chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Loglines:
The Sun Rises Differently:"After one gets accepted into a top university, two brothers grapple with the prospect of change as they struggle to accept their futures."
The Bystander: "An aspiring videographer attempts to catch a murderer on camera - but some things may be more disturbing than simply a killer's face."
Episode Links:
- The Sun Rises Differently (Trailer)
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker Matthew Taggart about his film The Counterfeit Kid.
Logline:
"Jack will need his friends to help him outwit the outlaw “Bloody” Ben Harris, find treasure, and return to his true love, Olivia."
Episode Links:
- Film Trailer
- Falcon85Films.com
- IG: @falcon85films
- FB: @tagnacious
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmakers Justin Stillmaker & Adam Peterson about their film The Rider.
Great film, great chat!
Logline:
"Assassins face off in a crumbling cyberpunk world where the best chance you have for survival is to kill for a living."
Episode Links:
- JustinStillmaker.com
- IG: @justinstillmaker
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
2023 WYOIFF
Continuing our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival we talk to filmmaker Craig Ouellette about his film The Return: Wrath of the Ravishing.
Logline:
"The outlaw Jagged Jane runs into a trio of women hellbent on revenge against an evil sheriff."
Episode Links:
- Craigofilm.com
- Film Trailer
- IG: @craigofilm
- FB: @craigofilm
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I talk with the band Prowler about their short film The Twilight Garden. The film will screen at the Wyoming International Film Festival during the 48 Film Festival block - 11:00AM, Sunday July 9th, 2003.
I had a blast talking with Ana, Kelsi and Hannah. Clown school, flop houses, living in Wyoming - I feel like this could have easily been a full length episode.
Great chat, great music, incredible film!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Tickets for the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival
- IG: @prowler_thrash
- Bandcamp
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I speak with filmmaker, choreographer and environmental activist Kelly Ashton Todd. Her film Under Review: Katahdin will be screening at the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival on Thursday July 6 at 7:30PM. The film will be part of the music and dance videos block and will be free to public! Make sure to come out and support if you are in the area.
Great chat! Beautiful film!
Film Synopsis:
"A boy grows up spending his days amongst the trees. Through his daily visits of climbing, playing and swinging from branches, he develops a loving friendship with the tree and her saplings. But, the boy grows up.
His visits become few and far between and he loses his affection for the natural world. He follows his lineage into the field of logging; therefore he must choose between protecting or slaughtering his beloved family of trees. Under Review: Katahdin tells the heart-wrenching story of our evolving relationship with trees."
Episode Links:
KellyAshtonTodd.com
IG: @kellyashtontodd
UnderReviewSeries.com
IG: @underreviewseries
Wyoming International Film Festival
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
As we continue our coverage of the Wyoming International Film Festival, I am thrilled to welcome filmmaker and actress Katerina Tana. Katerina's short film The Tip will screen this Saturday in the shorts block that begins at 5:00PM. Katerina's father was the original owner of the famed restaurant Dan Tana's The film tells a fascinating story about the early days of this iconic institution.
I absolutely loved the film and was fascinated with the conversation that we were able to have.
Make sure to check it out if you are at the festival.
Great film! Great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline:
"THE TIP is set in 1968 in Los Angeles and in based on a true story about a quintessential entrepreneurial immigrant. We navigate the journey to his dreams of success. It tells the earliest days of a now legendary LA restaurant which had humble origins and never lost touch with its humanity." (SOURCE: www.thetip-ashort.com)
Episode Links:
- Tickets: Saturday July 8 5:00PM - Wyoming International Film Festival
- TheTip-ashort.com
- IG: @katerinatana
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on the show I welcome filmmaker Bastiaan Rook. His short film Amy & I will be playing at the Wyoming International Film Festival this week.
Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline:
"When Amy and her boyfriend have a nice dinner in a restaurant where they first met, it turns out there’s some pressure on their relationship."
---
Episode Links:
Amy & I - Trailer
Purchase Tickets (Friday July 7, 2023 @5:05PM)
IG: @bastiaanrook
Letterboxd
Today I welcome one of my favorite musicians to the show. Drew Danburry is an artist that I've been following for 15 years and it was an honor to have him on Salt Lake Dirt. In addition to his 'Drew Danburry' catalogue, make sure to check out his band Icarus Phoenix.
Beautiful music, incredible chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Linkt.ree: @drewdanburry
- Bandcamp: @drewdanburry
- Linkt.ree: @icarusphoenix
- Spotify: Icarus Phoenix
- Spotify: Drew Danburry
- YouTube: @drewdanburry
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today we start our coverage of the Wyoming International Film Festival (July 5-9, 2023). Emmy Award winning actor Nikolay Moss joins me today to talk about his film reTribution. Nikolay co-wrote, co-produced and stars in the film directed by the late Nathan Hewitt. The film premiered of the Omaha Film Festival where it won best narrative short.
I loved this film and I hope that feature film version will make it's way to us sooner than later.
Great chat, great film!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Logline: "When their blackmail scheme goes awry, two brothers scramble to save their sister before it's too late."
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Tickets: Wyoming International Film Festival - Friday July 7th, 2023 at 2:35pm - Crime & Noir Shorts
- Instagram: @filmretribution
- IG: @nikolaymoss
- reTribution on IMDb
We conclude our coverage of Dances with Films 2023 by talking to filmmaker Barry Rubinow. Barry is an Emmy Award winning filmmaker whose new documentary Banded Together: The Boys from Glen Rock High screens today at 4:45PM PST (7/2/23) at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood.
I loved the film and the fact that all of these incredible musicians (Lee Shapiro, the Vivino brothers and John Feeney just to name a few) came from one high school during the same era is remarkable.
Great film, great chat! Purchase tickets below.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
DIRECTOR: Barry Rubinow PRODUCERS: Barry Rubinow, Doug Romoff FEATURING: Jimmy Vivino, Lee Shapiro, Jerry Vivino, John Feeney, Doug Romoff, Uncle Floyd Vivino, Frank Pagano, Jeff Venho, Joe Sielski.
"Showcasing the unique story of a group of close friends from the same tiny high school who all went on to make it big. From band practice under their inspiring High School music teacher Joe Sielski, to playing alongside such legends as Bruce Springsteen and Al Kooper, these eight men all have remarkable journeys. Director Barry Rubinow beautifully captures their stories in this once-in-a-lifetime documentary celebrating music and homegrown camaraderie."
---
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Tickets - July 2, 2023 at 4:45PM PST Dances with Films
- BandedTogetherMovie.com
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today we begin our coverage of the 2023 Wyoming International Film Festival. I'll be traveling to the festival so I was excited to get the chance to speak with its executive director, Rudi Womak.
Rudi gives us some history of the festival as well as some very exciting things to look forward to during that week.
The festival runs from Wednesday July 4 - Sunday July 9, 2023. You can purchase a festival pass for only $50. There will be over 150 films with 20+ different countries represented. Plus live music, dancing, art exhibits, etc. Well worth the price of admission.
It was great chatting with Rudi and I can't wait to get to Cheyenne this Wednesday!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Location:
Laramie County Community College
1400 East College Drive
Cheyenne, Wyoming 82007
(Wednesday July 5 - Sunday July 9)
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Tickets
- Wyoming International Film Festival (Festival Site)
- IG: @wyomingfilmfest
- FB: @WyomingFilmFest
- YouTube: WYOIFF
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
My top pick for narrative feature at Dances with Films 2023 is The Black Guelph. This film caught me off guard and I fell in love with it during the opening scene. John Connors directed the film and co-wrote it with Tiernan Williams.
Today we talk with some of the main actors from the film. Kevin Glynn (also an executive producer), Tony Doyle (Virgil) and Graham Earley (Canto) sat down to discuss how the film came about.
Every once in awhile I see a film at a festival that makes me remember why I started doing Salt Lake Dirt. The Black Guelph is one of those films. It is not to be missed! Keep a lookout for it.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
THE BLACK GUELPH (Watch Trailer HERE):
WRITERS: Tiernan Williams and John Connors DIRECTOR: John Connors
CAST: Graham Earley, Paul Roe, Denise McCormack, Lauren Larkin, Tony Doyle, Casper Walsh, Dubzeno, Kevin Glynn.
"Canto is thirty years old, actively dealing drugs while suffering from mental health issues when his girlfriend Leah, kicks him out. Leah sick of his antics and his criminal lifestyle tries to shield her daughter Rachel from Canto’s negative influence. Canto is forced to turn to the streets for help as he always has done. Dan, Canto’s father comes back to the area and tries to reconnect with Canto, who outright rejects him for abandoning him when he was a child."
EPISODE LINKS:
- PURCHASE TICKETS for DWF Screening: Friday June 30th, 2023 at 9:30 PM PST.
- Instagram: @the_black_guelph_film
- www.ClusterFoxFilms.com
SLD Podcast Links:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
We continue our coverage of Dances with Films with the documentary film Abled: The Blake Leeper Story. Blake Leeper (Athlete, Paralympian), Einar Thorsteinsson (Director & Editor) and Brian Leong (Producer & Cinematographer) join us for today's episode of Salt Lake Dirt. The film is a beautiful story about family and resilience. Make sure to keep an eye out for it! Great chat, great film. Thanks for listening! Kyler
DIR: Einar Thorsteinsson PRODS: Einar Thorsteinsson, Katherine LeBlond, Brian Leong, Alan Finkel, Johann Stefansson
FEATURING: Blake LeeperDecorated Paralympian Blake Leeper challenges to qualify for the USA 2020 Tokyo Olympic Team. His greatest hurdle proves to be battling domestic and international governing bodies for the right to compete on the world stage.DWF Premiere: Saturday July 1st at 12:30pm. PURCHASE Tickets.
Episode Links:
AbledFilm.com IG: @abledfilm Blake Leeper's IG: @leepster
SLD Podcast Info:
www.saltlakedirt.com Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST Listen on APPLE Podcasts Listen on SPOTIFY Instagram: @saltlakedirt
"ONE MAN'S TALE OF DEPRESSION, PSYCHIC TORMENT AND A BUS TOUR OF THE HOLOCAUST."
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I was thrilled to have author Jerry Stahl on the show. Jerry has been one of my favorite writers since I first discovered his novel I, Fatty (a novel about the silent film star Fatty Arbuckle told as a memoir) nearly 20 years ago. Meeting him for the first time and being able to experience his humor and kindness made this episode a special one for me.
His new book Nein, Nein, Nein! will be released July 5 on Akashic Books. I absolutely loved the new book and I'm confident you will too. Jerry has some upcoming book events. You can find that information below. Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Author Jack Skelley joins me today on the show. His latest book is The Complete Fear of Kathy Acker. Excerpts from the book have been published over the course of four decades. Over the years it has become a cult classic about the1980s underground scene in Los Angeles. I tore through the book and am now a huge fan. I can see why it has been held in such high regard. I'm excited that people can now read it in its completed form.
Great chat, great book.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE The Complete Fear of Kathy Acker
- IG: @jackskelley
- Twitter: @jackskelley
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
One of my favorite films from Dances with Films so far is without a doubt Hedgehog. Writer/director D. Mitry joins me today to talk about his film. It is one of the first narrative projects that directly addresses the Ukranian-Russian conflict happening right now.
It's an incredibly beautiful film and I encourage you to check it at either Dances with Films or the Wyoming International Film Festival.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Logline:
As the war starts in Ukraine, six years old Nina is sent to her grandmother’s remote village. In the shack outside, Nina discovers a badly wounded Russian soldier.
Episode Links:
- theHedgehogFilm.com
- IG: @thehedgehogfilm
- FB: @thehedgehogfilm
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Rex Dean joins us today on Salt Lake Dirt. Rex is the writer/director of Space Baby. I had a blast watching the film and when I found out the backstory, I was blown away!
Space Baby will have its world premiere at Dances with Films on Sunday June 25 at 6:30pm.
Purchase tickets HERE.
Great film, great chat.
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Purchase tickets to Space Baby (Sun. June 25 @6:30pm, Dances with Films, Los Angeles)
- SpaceBaby.com
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Craig Clevender is the author of The Contortionist's Handbook and Dermaphoria. His latest novel Mother Howl was recently released on Datura Books. On this episode we talk about about the origin of Mother Howl, imposter syndrome, and the evolution of the publishing industry.
Great book, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Mother Howl synopsis:
"Sixteen-year-old Lyle Edison recognizes the face of a murder victim on the nightly news – the waitress at his local diner. A place he often frequented with his dad. The following day his father is arrested and charged with her murder. And then eight further bodies are discovered.
Following the revelation that his dad is in fact a serial killer, Lyle is outcast and shunned. Forced to abandon his family, illegally obtaining a new identity, he moves away to start all over again.
Some years later, Lyle thinks he has finally moved on. But after several brushes with the law, Lyle’s past eventually catches up to him when a mysterious stranger known only as Icarus shows up and seems to know Lyle’s secret…" (SOURCE: Datura Books)
Episode Links:
- CraigClevenger.com
- PURCHASE Mother Howl
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
This week I begin my coverage of Dances with Films. DWF runs from June 22 to July 2, 2023 (TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood). I've been fortunate enough to screen some of the films beforehand and I've really enjoyed. One in particular, Farewelling, had a strong impact on me. I was thrilled to have Rodes Phire (writer & director) and lead actress Cristen Coppen from Farewelling on today's episode.
Great film, great chat! Make sure to purchase a ticket if you are in Los Angeles on June 24th. More details below.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
FAREWELLING- World Premiere Narrative
SYNOPSIS: In the midst of the pandemic and aftermath of her best friend’s overdose, Jenna finds herself in crisis as she reunites with those still around her. Questions of her own ethics and morals surface as she grapples with the “why” of everything, eventually discovering what it takes to truly break us. This is the World Premiere for the film at Dances with Film 26th Annual Film Festival.
Writer/DIrector: Rodes Phire Lead Actress: Cristen Coppen (Shameless)
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Tickets to Farewelling (Saturday June 24 @ 9:30PM; Dances with Films)
- unpavedroads.com
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I'm thrilled to welcome James Martak from Hot House West to the show. James plays rhythm guitar in this swing orchestra inspired by the music of Django Reinhardt. I'm a big fan of their music and I'm always excited to see what they will come up with next.
On this episode James and I talk about the origins of the group, the evolution of the jazz community in Salt Lake, and their Kickstarter campaign that recently went live.
You can catch Hot House West play live on Tuesday June 6th at the Clubhouse on South Temple. The show is free so if you are in the area make sure to stop by. Free swing dance lessons start at 6:30pm and the music kicks off at 7:30pm.
Great music, great chat. Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- Kickstarter Campaign for Patron Saint Django: A New Album by Hot House West
- HotHouseWest.com
- Instagram: @hothousewest_
- Linktree: @hothousewest
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome back one of my favorite authors. Megan Abbott joins me to talk about her new book Beware the Woman (May 30, 2023; G.P. Putnam's Sons). We talk the new book, writer's workshops, and photography. Great book, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Beware the Woman Synopsis:
"Honey, I just want you to have everything you ever wanted. That’s what Jacy’s mom always told her. And Jacy felt like she finally did. Newly married and with a baby on the way, Jacy and her new husband, Jed, embark on their first road trip together to visit his father, Dr. Ash, in Michigan’s far-flung Upper Peninsula. The moment they arrive at the cottage snug within the lush woods, Jacy feels bathed in love by the warm and hospitable Dr. Ash, if less so by his house manager, the enigmatic Mrs. Brandt.
But their Edenic first days take a turn when Jacy has a health scare. Swiftly, vacation activities are scrapped, and all eyes are on Jacy’s condition. Suddenly, whispers about Jed’s long-dead mother and complicated family history seem to eerily impinge upon the present, and Jacy begins to feel trapped in the cottage, her every move surveilled, her body under the looking glass. But are her fears founded or is it paranoia, or cabin fever, or—as is suggested to her—a stubborn refusal to take necessary precautions? The dense woods surrounding the cottage are full of dangers, but are the greater ones inside? (Source: Penguin Random House)
Author Bio:
Megan Abbott is the award-winning author of eleven novels, including New York Times bestseller The Turnout, which won the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, Give Me Your Hand, You Will Know Me, The Fever, Dare Me, and The End of Everything. She received her PhD in literature from New York University. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Los Angeles Times Magazine, The Guardian, and The Believer. She's the co-creator and executive producer of USA's adaptation of Dare Me, now on Netflix, and was a staff writer on HBO's David Simon show The Deuce. Abbott lives in New York City.
Episode Links:
- Website: www.meganabbott.com
Salt Lake Dirt links:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Filmmaker and author Greg Sestero joins me for this episode of Salt Lake Dirt. Greg wrote The Disaster Artist which is about his friendship with Tommy Wiseau and their experience making the cult classic film The Room. The book is one of the best film memoirs out there in my opinion. And of course, The Room speaks for itself. There is a reason why after 20 years the film resonates with a worldwide audience.
Greg will make his first Salt Lake City appearance on Saturday May 27, 2023. The Salt Lake Film Society will host a 35mm screening ofThe Roomand a Q & A with Greg as well as some other fun surprises. You can grab tickets at SLFSTIX.com.
Great book, great film, great guy. I look forward to chatting with Greg in the future about his upcoming film projects.
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
PURCHASE Tickets to the Salt Lake Screening:
- Saturday MAY 27, 2023
- Broadway Centre, 7:00pm - Screening & Q/A with Greg Sestero
Episode Links:
- Website: disaster-artist.com
- Twitter: @gregsestero
- Instagram: @gregsestero
- Facebook: @gregsestero
- IMDb: Greg Sestero
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt we flip the format. Author C.E. Hoffman has an incredible podcast called Scribbles & Spills. I was a guest on the program a few months back. I had such a good time that I thought I would share our episode. So on this episode C.E. interviews me, Kyler Bingham. I hope you enjoy!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Author Bio:
C.E. Hoffman is a recipient of a Silver Honourable Mention from the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future Award, and winner of the 2022 Defunct May Day Chapbook contest. They’ve been published widely online and in print since 2010, and edited Punk Monk Magazine since 2012.
Current releases include SLUTS AND WHORES (Thurston Howl Publications, 2021), BLOOD, BOOZE, AND OTHER THINGS IN NATURE (Alien Buddha Press, 2022), GHOSTS, TROLLS, AND OTHER THINGS ON THE INTERNET (Bottlecap Press, 2022), and NO ACTUAL SIN (May Day Press/Defunct Magazine, 2023.) LOSERS AND FREAKS is forthcoming from Querencia Press.
Find them online at cehoffman.net, follow them on Twitter @CEHoffman2, and listen to their podcast Scribbles & Spills.
SLD Podcast Info:
www.saltlakedirt.com
Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
Listen on APPLE Podcasts
Listen on SPOTIFY
Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I speak with actress Grace Truly. Grace appears in the new film Book Club: The Next Chapter (Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Mary Steenburgen). Grace has appeared in several short films and has also appeared in Downton Abbey: A New Era.
I had an amazing time talking with Grace about Book Club as well as her interests in vintage clothing, sewing, photography, and classic film. Grace is definitely someone to keep an eye out for. I can't wait to see more of her work in the future!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- IMDb - Grace Truly
- IG: @truly.grace
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
I fortunate enough to have the Bay Area rapper FIFTH join me on Salt Lake Dirt just one day after the release of his album Terrible Twos (Released 5.5.23)
I've been listening to it non-stop. For a literary and film podcast like SLD, the conversation I had with FIFTH fits in perfectly.
Make sure to check out Taking Chances, a short film about FIFTH and the making of Terrible Twos.
Incredible artist! Great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE Terrible Twos
- FIFTH's Website
- IG: @officialthefifth
- Twitter: @official5th
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
I'm absolutely thrilled to welcome Gary Lassin to the show. Gary is the president of the Three Stooges Fan Club and the author of the new book A Tour De Farce: The Complete History of the Three Stooges on the Road. The fan club and ultimately Gary, are responsible for my love of early era comedians and classic Hollywood. I joined the club in my early teens. It was amazing being able to connect with him after nearly all these years.
The book is an epic work of meticulous research (Over 700 pages). It's a complete history of the Stooges' touring life. When they weren't making films they spent huge chunks of the year touring their act around the United States. This book documents it all and has never before seen photos of the comedy trio.
A Tour De Farce is an incredible labor of love and I am extremely grateful that Gary brought it into existence.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
- PURCHASE the book at tourdefarce.net
- The Stoogeum
- FB: @TheStoogeum
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome author John Derderian to the show. I became aware of John's work through Stephen Jay Schwartz. If Stephen recommends something, I know it's going to be good. That was definitely the case with John's short story collection Starbucks Must Die and Other Stories.
Great book, great chat! I'm looking forward to reading his next collection of short stories entitled Schrödinger Scat and Other Tales.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
---Episode Links:
PURCHASE on Smashwords
PURCHASE on Amazon
Author Bio:
"If you're James Cameron or Steven Spielberg looking to pay me millions for the rights to my stories, or if you're anybody else who wants to contact me for any other reason, you can get me here:StarbucksMustDie@gmail.com." SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome back Michelle Bossy to the show. I first talked to Michelle back in 2021 when her film Under the Lantern Lit Sky played at the Brooklyn Film Festival. That film was one of my favorites from 2021 so I was thrilled when I heard that she had two short films currently playing the festival circuit. In this episode we discuss Early Retirement and Antisemite - two powerful films that you’ll want to keep on your radar. Great films, great chat! I look forward to having Michelle back on in the future.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Episode Links:
MichelleBossy.com
Director Bio:
Michelle Bossy is a Mexican-American award-winning film, television, and theater director. Recent films Michelle directed include Nobody’s Home (feature), Under the Lantern Lit Sky (feature), Antisemite by Etan Marciano, klutz. by Elizabeth Narciso, Early Retirement by Pete Sabri and Susan-Kate Heaney, Chance of Showers by Julie Craig and Alex Ellis, The Trespassed by Raul Garza, Incurable by Josephine Cashman, Miracle Baby by Steven Fechter, Friendly Neighborhood Coven by Caroline V McGraw, Ladies Lounge by Caroline V. McGraw, 18, written by Courtney Baron, She Grinds Her Own Coffee, written by Cheri Magid, and The New 35 written by Leslie Korein. Michelle’s films have premiered at the Austin Film Festival, St. Louis International Film Festival, Dances with Films, LA Shorts International Film Festival, and the Female Eye Film Festival, among dozens of others. Michelle directed the series The Broadway Babies Show by Nicole Mangi and Leah Sprecher, and There’s a Special Place in Hell for Fashion Bloggers, written by Amelia Alvarez. Michelle collaborated with Maria Alexandria Beech on TeleMAMAS, a pilot. She has directed music videos for the band Yassou, and the singer/songwriter Brooke Josephson. Michelle directed for Disney’s Diversity Showcase in 2021 and 2022. (Source: MichelleBossy.com)
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 101.9 FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Annette Bochenek joins me to talk about her book Hometowns to Hollywood Volume 1. Annette is a film historian, professor and creator of the Hometowns to Hollywood blog where she travels all over the country to explore the hometowns of Hollywood greats like Ava Gardner, Jimmy Steward, and Orson Welles. Great book, great chat!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Episode Links:
HometownsToHollywood.com
FB: @home2hollywood
Twitter: @home2hollywood
PURCHASE Hometowns to Hollywood Volume 1 (Hardback, paperback, ebook)
Salt Lake Dirt Links:
www.saltlakedirt.com
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Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Linktree: @saltlakedirt
This week I welcome an artist from my hometown of Salt Lake City. Ashlyn Anderson is a writer, actor, and musician. Great chat!Thanks for listening,Kyler---For more about Ash, check out their IG: @littlepixiegirl
Today I welcome back author Chip Jacobs to the show. We talk about his 2016 book Strange As It Seems. Incredible book, check it out!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Synopsis:
"The life of Gordon Zahler was simply so miraculous that it might as well have been science fiction. Born into an entertainment family in suburban Los Angeles in the mid-1920s, Zahler was a lovable prankster and class clown, exasperating his parents with his endless teenage feats of derring-do. But Gordon Zahler's promising career as a public miscreant went pear-shaped one day in 1940 when he and his buddies where fooling around in their high school gym with a spring board. An unsteady jump no the board vaulted Gordon on a deadly trajectory landing him squarely on his neck, severing his spine. He was 14-years old. That's when the miracles began."
Episode Info:
PURCHASE Strange As It Seems
ChipJacobs.com
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
- TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome back filmmaker Cameron S. Mitchell. We talk about his new short film Kryptonite which is currently a part of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge. I'm a big fan of Cameron's and was thrilled to be able to talk with him so soon after this year's Slamdance Film Festival. Great chat, great film!
Logline: "Old flames Imani and Alex reconnect after being estranged for over two years. Imani has news that will change Alex’s life forever and together they must come to an acceptance of their new reality."
WATCH Kryptonite on YouTube
Episode Links:
Cameron S. Mitchell
IG: @camerons.mitchell
FB: Easterseals Disability Film Challenge
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
- TikTok: @saltlakedirt
This week I welcome filmmaker Dan Katzir to the show. Dan and Ravit Markus (co-director/producer) brought their documentary film American Pot Story to the Slamdance Film Festival where it won an Audience Award. Great chat, great film!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
LOGLINE: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam tells the unknown origin story of the underdogs who took a huge risk in order to revolutionize current cannabis policy.
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Episode Links:
- AmericanPotStory.com
- Twitter: @thepotstory
- Instagram: @americanpotstory
- Facebook: @americanpotstory
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
- TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome Brad Listi to the show. His latest novel is called Be Brief and Tell Them Everything. I really connected with this book. It's high on my current recommendation list. Check it out. He is also the host of Otherppl with Brad Listi, which has become one of my favorite literary podcasts as of late.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Book Synopsis:
"A darkly funny meditation on creativity and family, Be Brief and Tell Them Everything tracks the life of a middle-aged author who is struggling to write his next novel while trying to come to grips with his son’s disabilities, set against a backdrop of ecological catastrophe and escalating human insanity in contemporary Los Angeles. A beautiful, powerful, concise work of autofiction that is reminiscent of My Struggle and Grief is the Thing with Feathers, Be Brief documents the stops and starts of adulthood and marriage, and the joys and challenges of parenting, while defining what it means to be a good man, and a good writer." (Source: Ig Publishing)
Author Bio:
Brad Listi was born in Milwaukee. He is the author of the novel Be Brief and Tell Them Everything (Ig Publishing / May 2022). His other books include the novel Attention. Deficit. Disorder., an LA Times bestseller, and Board, a work of nonfiction collage, co-authored with Justin Benton. He is the founding editor of The Nervous Breakdown, an online literary magazine, and in 2011 he launched the Otherppl podcast, which features in-depth interviews with today's leading writers. He lives in Los Angeles. (Source: BradListi.com)
Episode Links:
- LISTEN to Otherppl with Brad Listi
- BradListi.com
- otherppl.com
- Twitter: @otherppl
- Instagram: @otherppl.podcast
- YouTube: @otherppl
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
- TikTok: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome bandleader and composer Skip Heller to the show. We talk about his new album Dark Passages by the Hollywood Film Noirchestra (Killer Kern Records) and how the project came into existence. We also chat about Louis Armstrong, Jerry Stahl, and his love for classic film. I had a blast talking to Skip. I was scrambling to write down his recommendations and interests! He is like the cool older brother that turns you onto art that will change your life.
You can find the new album over on Bandcamp.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Press Release:"Hollywood -- Bandleader/composer Skip Heller has long enjoyed a diverse career, but one close look at his resume - which includes working with Yma Sumac, Bootsy Collins, NRBQ, Lalo Guerrero, Los Lobos, the Klezmatics, Todd Rundgren, and Joe Bataan - and it becomes clear that film noir is his home base...
Dark Passages (named after a David Goodis novel) takes the listener through the world of noir, largely concentrating on mid century classics (Touch of Evil, The Hustler, Kiss Me Deadly, Riffifi), B movies (Foreign Intrigue, Beat Girl), TV (Twilight Zone, Perry Mason), and two of Heller's noir originals. In addition, the first pressing features a cover by none other than Cal Schenkel, whose album covers for Frank Zappa, Captain Beefheart, and Tom Waits are (pardon the word) iconic."
Episode Links: PURCHASE Dark Passages* by Hollywood Film Noirchestra * WhatIsSkip.net * Instagram: @noirchestra323
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Today I welcome Joseph Fasanoto the show.His latest novel The Swallows of Lunetto came out on Maudlin House this past November. It’s the story of a young couple's escape from Italian fascism at the end of the Second World War. An incredible book and beautifully written! If you have a book club this is a novel that I think would spark some fascinating conversations.
If you go to the Maudlin House website to purchase The Swallows of Lunetto, you can enter in the promo code saltlake to get 10% off.
Also, make sure to check out Joseph’s music. The title track from his most recent album The Wind That Knows the Way will play at the end of this episode.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Book Synopsis:"From Joseph Fasano, the acclaimed author of The Dark Heart of Every Wild Thing, comes The Swallows of Lunetto, the powerful story of a young couple's escape from Italian fascism at the end of the Second World War.
Alexandra Bianchi lives and works in Lunetto, a provincial village in Italy's Calabria region, which finds itself ravaged by war in the summer of 1945. Leonardo Gemetti, a young man from Lunetto, has been missing for nearly eight years, and all his village knows of him is that he has carried out an atrocity against the Italian partisans in Mussolini's fallen Republic of Salò. When Alexandra meets a masked figure in the streets of Lunetto, she cannot imagine what she will learn about history and her place in it.
A sweeping love story and historical drama, The Swallows of Lunetto is a timely meditation on the left-right political divide, the reckonings of inherited trauma, and the potential of forgiveness to heal deeply divisive wounds."
Episode Links: Purchase The Swallows of Lunetto* - Use promo code: saltlake for 10% off. * Purchase Kindle version * JosephFasano.net * Substack * Twitter: @Joseph_Fasano_
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Abbey George (director/producer) and Maddie Lucas (producer/actress) join me to talk about their short film Jesus Would Have Loved Punk Rock which will have its world premiere at the 2023 Mammoth Film Festival(March 2-6, 2023). I stumbled upon the film's poster somewhere online and it completely grabbed my attention. I absolutely fell in love with it once I had the chance to see it.
Sign up for their mailing list to keep up to date.
I'm excited to see more work from Maddie and Abbey in the future!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
Film Synopsis:
Veronica and Annie are fed up with the oppressive and corrupt nature of their Catholic high school, determined to make authoritarian teachers answer for their crimes and right the moral compass of the student body.
Episode Links:
- JesusPunkRockFilm.com
- Instagram: @JesusWouldHaveLovedPunkRock
- Facebook: @JesusWouldHaveLovedPunkRock
- 2023 Mammoth Film Festival (March 2-6, 2023)
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
D.T. Robbins joins me to talk about his new collection of short stories Birds Aren't Real. Absurdist, funny, dark... everything I love in a book.
Use PROMO Code: saltlake to get 10% off your purchase of Birds Aren't Real on the Maudlin House website.
Book Synopsis:
"Meeting minutes from a Satanic cult. Werewolves with orgasmic origins. Homemade puzzles made from human body parts. A family trapped inside someone’s leg, hurling toward oblivion. Gaslighting birds. Bicycle tours through hell in search of a lost dog. A fake-your-own-death kit. The ultimate makeover. A carwash funeral. The end of the world in the back of an old Chevy Astro. Birds Aren't Real. The absurdist examination of what awaits us all at the end—for better or for worse."
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Episode Links:
- D.T.'s new book Birds Aren't Real
- DTRobbins.com
- Rejection-Letters.com
- Twitter: @dt_robbins
- Instagram: @dt_robbins
SLD Podcast Info:
- www.saltlakedirt.com
- Listen on APPLE Podcasts
- Listen on SPOTIFY
- Instagram: @saltlakedirt
Stephen Jay Schwartz returns to Salt Lake Dirt for our 100th episode. Stephen was actually our guest back on episode one so I'm thrilled he could return for this special episode.I asked Stephen back in 2020 to be on the show because I’m a huge fan of his work. I love his novels Boulevard and Beat (Hayden Glass LAPD detective series). His nonfiction collection Hollywood vs the Author is not to be missed if you're interested in how some novels are adapted for Hollywood.His new book is called Stormy Whether or Not We Believe it is Still Stormy Weather. It is a collection of Stephen's short stories, poetry and other writings. I highly recommend it.Thanks for listening!Kyler@saltlakedirt
Rounding out our coverage for the 2023 Berlin International Film Festival is the film Sweet As. Filmmaker Jub Clerc talked with me about the making of the film and its close autobiographical ties. Wonderful performances from an incredible, young cast! Check it out.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
SYNOPSIS: Sweet As (Australia, 2022)
"Everyone and everything is a story, but what about finding the right words? This is something that fifteen-year-old Murra discovers while travelling on a photo-excursion for disadvantaged youth through the ancient natural landscapes of her Aboriginal homeland. In the course of one eventful week of wild camping and wandering through historic Indigenous sites, Murra reconnects with her ancestral roots, makes friends for life, experiences the disappointments of heartbreak but discovers also her love for photography. As the camera and the images she creates calibrate her with a fresh point of view to the world, Murra sees new possibilities for her future. Sweet As celebrates resilience, growth, hope and love and the importance of finding one’s very own voice in the process."
Today I speak with filmmaker Zhi Wei Jow. His new film Tomorrow is a Long Time has been playing at the 2023 Berlin International Film Festival this past week. I really enjoyed the film. It is visually stunning and hits on some heavy themes including family and survival. Plus, there is a great Bob Dylan Easter Egg! Check it out!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
SYNOPSIS: Tomorrow is a Long Time
"Acts of violence bring regret and repercussions for widowed pest exterminator Chua and his son Meng. But control over their lives is not a familiar feeling for either of them. The dense cityscape of Singapore hems them in their precarious existence, offering little tenderness or space to breathe freely. His father’s long shifts of gruelling work for a thankless employer coupled with his grandmother’s advancing illness have left Meng isolated, and susceptible to being pressured into joining ranks with a group of bullies from school. Compulsory military service looms near. The unknown world of the jungle holds its own threats, but also the possibility of bringing Meng closer to understanding his own nature, and connecting with something bigger."
Today I welcome filmmaker and novelist Sonja Heiss to the show. Her new film When Will it be Again Like it Never Was Before has been playing at the 2023 Berlin International Film Festival [Berlinale]. I absolutely loved the film! It's one of the best movies I've seen in awhile (film festival or otherwise) - set your Google alerts!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
FILM SYNOPSIS: When Will it be Again Like it Never Was Before
"The household Josse grows up in hardly corresponds to the typical notions of family: his father is the director of a psychiatric clinic, on the premises of which their family home is located. Josse spends his childhood and adolescence with two brothers and liberal parents whose bourgeois life is threatening to break up their marriage. Again and again, Josse is plagued by fits of anger and sadness. He finds a sympathetic ear, consolation and the feeling of not being an oddball primarily among the psychiatric patients. The adaptation of Joachim Meyerhoff’s bestseller is carried by a well-known cast and tells a tragicomic tale about growing up in the 1970s. A soulful celebration of life in all its absurdity and transience."
Today on the show I welcome two incredible writers and artists. They go by the monikers Fortunus Games and Tete DePunk.
Fortunus Games is the host of the podcast The Nuts and Bolts of Writing and is the creator of the graphic novels Sam in New York and The Book of Joel. Both are all available for free online.
Tete DePunk is a writer who has an epic novel in the works called 70 Fierce Years. The novel "follows the life of (as narrated in his own voice) Andrei Danilovich Novokshonov, a Don Cossack officer who loses his rank and property as a result of the Soviet De-Cossackization Policies, and now must forge a new identity and life in the newly formed Soviet Union." (SOURCE: 70 Fierce Years on Tapas)
Fortunus Games and Tete DePunk have an ongoing online conversation about the creative process that I’ve been enjoying in the past few months.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
SALT LAKE DIRT
Today I welcome actor, filmmaker, playwright, and novelist Tim Blake Nelson to the show. Tim is one of the great character actors of our time. Like a lot of people, I first became aware of him in the Coen Bros film O Brother Where Art Thou.
Tim’s novel is called City of Blows and it just came out on Unnamed Press. It didn’t click with me that Tim was actually the writer of this incredible book until I saw his picture on the promo materials. When I read the synopsis, I knew it was my kind of book. "A sprawling, character-driven depiction of the modern film industry.” (Source: Unnamed Press)
City of Blows is beautifully written and the character development is incredible. It was an honor to talk with Tim about the book and his process for creating.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
You can purchase signed copies at The Unnamed PressBook Events:
- 2/7/23 Book Soup, Los Angeles
- 2/8/23 Magic City Books, Tulsa
- 2/10/23 Strand Book Store, NYC
J.D. O'Brien is on the show today. His debut novel Zig Zag comes out 2/7/23 on Schaffner Press.
I absolutely loved Zig Zag. It's high on my recommendation list this year. A big thanks to Duncan Birmingham for making me aware of it.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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Synopsis for Zig Zag:
Capri Dall has a foolproof plan to knock over the marijuana dispensary where she works. But when her boyfriend botches the heist, the two of them end up in a stolen car with a trunkful of rare high-end weed–and an unhinged security guard on their trail.
Harry Robatore is a burned-out rhinestone cowboy, barely scraping by as a bail bondsman. Agreeing to help out an old pal, and settle his bar tab, he sets out to track down the lovers on the run. The chase begins in the San Fernando Valley and leads him deep into the heart of the Mojave Desert–building to an explosive showdown at a ghost town tourist trap.
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PURCHASE: Zig Zag
Today I’m very excited to welcome a guest I’ve been wanting to have on the show for awhile now. Arthur Dark is a filmmaker and the host of Hollywood Graveyard.If you haven’t come across his YouTube channel, check it out. If you are a fan of my show, chances are Arthur’s films and videos will interest you.Arthur Dark created Hollywood Graveyard as a way to keep the memory of the world's greatest entertainers alive, by visiting their final resting places. His "Famous Grave Tour" videos take us on a journey of remembrance of the stars we know and love, and introduce us to a few new ones along the way. (SOURCE: HollywoodGraveyard.com)The channel just had its 6 year anniversary and it is one of the few YouTube Channels (probably the only) that I make sure to keep caught up on.On a side note that I didn’t know for quite a long time, Arthur is actually from Salt Lake as well.I’m putting links to some of my favorite videos of his in the description, as well as the short films that he has produced - but I encourage you to do a deep dive and go through some of the older videos.Thanks for listening!Kyler---The Music of Hollywood Graveyard (Original Soundtrack) Courtesy of Arthur Dark. Music by Giuseppe Vasapolli---For more on Arthur & Hollywood Graveyard:HollywoodGraveyard.comIG: @HollywoodGraveyardArthur's Book: Zombie JuniorYouTube: @HollywoodGraveyardNarrative Films from Hollywood GraveyardThe Music of Hollywood Graveyard
We are continuing our 2023 Slamdance coverage with a hilarious episodic film. Who's Annie? creator/director Sophia Peer and co-writer Annie Sicherman join me to talk about the film. I highly recommend you keep an eye out for this one, I know I will.
Screenings:
Sunday Jan 22 at 9:45pm (Episodes)
Thursday Jan. 26 at 11:30am (Episodes)
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LOGLINE:After jail-time, 12-step programs and five marriages, Annie begins her acting career in her mid-fifties with the help of a young director she met at a Burger King. In this show within a show, Annie tackles both her gigs as an actor and the role of herself in her own life story.
Today on the show I welcome writer, director and puppeteer Emily Morus-Jones. Her short film Diomysus is playing at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival. I absolutely loved this film. I've never seen anything like it!
There will be two screenings of Diomysus at the festival. Friday the 20th of January between 3pm and Monday the 23rd at 3pm. If you are not able to get to Park City you can find Diomysus and all of the festival's programming on the Slamdance Channel between January 23 and the 29th.
I had a great time talking with Emily and I look forward to seeing more of her work in the future!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
For more about Emily and her work check out her website:
www.emilymorusjones.com
Today I welcome filmmaker Brendan Geraghty to the show. His documentary film Motel Drive is playing at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival and will premiere at the Treasure Mountain Inn Sunday Jan 22 at 1:15PM.
A Second Screening will take place Thursday Jan 26th, 2:45 PM.
Motel Drive is one of my top picks this year from both Slamdance and Sundance - I encourage you to check it out. If you are not able to get to Park City you can find Motel Drive and all of the festival's programming on the Slamdance Channel between January 23 and the 29th.
I had a great time talking to Brendan about the film and about his career. I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Motel Drive - Logline:
Within a community of motels infamous for illicit activity, the Shaw Family grapples with housing insecurity and addiction while trying to raise their young son. When California's High-Speed Rail Project displaces them, a glimpse of stability appears within reach. A vérité, street level vantage of post-industrial America, documented over eight years, on one city block.
Today I welcome filmmaker Peter Kimball to the show.
Peter’s short film Millstone will be playing at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival.
Millstone is made with an entirely deaf cast and is shot completely in American Sign Language. One of the most interesting things about it is that the story has absolutely nothing to do with deafness.
The film plays as part of the Slamdance Unstoppable.
Wed, Jan 25th, 5:10 PM @ The Student Union Theater @ University of Utah
Thu, Jan 26th, 10:00 AM @ Treasure Mountain Inn Ballroom
Between January 23 and the 29th you can watch all Slamdance films on demand if you have a Slamdance channel subscription which is only $7.99 a month.
I had a great time talking with Peter and I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.
For more about the film visit: millstonethemovie.com*
2023 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL
Today I welcome filmmaker Cameron S. Mitchell to the show.Cameron’s documentary short film Elsa will be playing at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival. Elsa is about a deafblind fencer and author. It's an incredible film.
I did an interview with Cameron a couple of years ago when his film The Co-Op played Slamdance 2021. The Co-Op was one of my favorite shorts from that year and I was excited to hear that he had another film playing Slamdance. Great chat, great film! Check it out.
Slamdance screening times for Elsa:Fri, Jan 20th, 7:15 PM @ Treasure Mountain Inn Crescent Room
Wed, Jan 25th, 5:10 PM @ The Student Union Theater @ University of Utah
For more about Cameron and his work check out:cameronsmitchell.com
Today I welcome filmmaker Jillian Corsie to the show.
Jillian’s short film Tooth will be playing at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival. I loved this film even though it gave me nightmares after I watched it. It’s amazing. I even hear there will be human sized teeth walking up and down Main Street in Park City letting people know about the film. Forget the celebrities, come up to Park City to see the teeth!
TOOTH plays Sunday January 22 at 5:30pm and on Wednesday the 25 at 5:30pm. Between January 23 and the 29th you can watch the entire festival on demand if you have a Slamdance Channel subscription which is only $7.99 a month.
Thanks for listening!
For more on Jillian and her work check out:
- jilliancorsie.com
- filmfatales.org
- freethework.com
Today on the show I talk to the filmmakers behind the incredible documentary The Mad Writer. We have director Zachary Kashkett, producer Jon Webb, and the man himself L’Orange. The film is having its world premiere at Slamdance 2023 on January 20th at 2:45 pm.
The documentary follows the musician L’Orange as he deals with a health condition that jeopardizes his hearing. I love when I find documentaries where I can discover music unknown to me. I’m a fan now. Love the music, love the film. It was great talking to these guys.
A second screening will take place January 24th at 1:00 pm. Between January 23 and the 29th you can watch all Slamdance films on demand if you have a Slamdance Channel subscription.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
For more about The Mad Writer check out:
- themadwriterfilm.com
- IG: @themadwriterfilm
- Bandcamp for L'Orange
Today I welcome filmmaker and author Todd Hughes. His new book Lunch with Lizabeth chronicles his friendship with noir movie icon Lizabeth Scott. I loved the book and had a great time talking with Todd. As of this writing there are still signed copies of the book over at Larry Edmunds Bookshop. Check it out and thanks for listening!
Kyler
- SIGNED Copies of Lunch with Lizabeth [at Larry Edmunds Bookshop]
- PURCHASE Lunch with Lizabeth wherever else you order books
Today I welcome Hollywood legend Nancy Olson Livingston to the show. Nancy is probably best known for her role as Betty Schaefer in Billy Wilder's 1950 classic Sunset Boulevard. I was thrilled to speak with Nancy about her new memoir A Front Row Seat: An Intimate Look at Broadway, Hollywood, and the Age of Glamour.
Thanks for listening! Kyler
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- PURCHASE: A Front Row Seat
- SIGNED COPIES from Larry Edmunds Bookshop (as of 1/9/23)
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome back Bruce Wagner. If you listened to our last episode with Bruce you know that he is one of my favorite authors. He was kind enough to return to talk about his latest novel ROAR: American Master, The Oral Biography of Roger Orr. ROAR recently came out on Arcade Publishing and it's the kind of book that I didn't want to end - it is simply that good. I highly recommend it.Thanks for listening!---Synopsis of Roar (Source: Arcade Publishing):A new novel by Hollywood’s "master of satire."The myth of an epic, public life—its triumphs and tragedies—is a particularly American obsession. ROAR is a metafictional exploration of such a life and attendant fame of an extraordinary, and completely made up, man.Born in Nashville in 1940 and adopted by a wealthy San Francisco couple, Roger Orr—“Roar”—became an underground stand-up comedian with a cult following while still in his teens, segueing to an acclaimed songwriter in the Sixties. In the decades that followed, his talent spanned the worlds of entertainment, from film directing and books to fine art (paintings, sculpture). His promethean energies expanded to the world of medicine; he became a dermatologist, the first to patent cadaver skin for burn victims. A spiritual seeker who returned to India throughout his life, Roar was also a voracious lover of both men and women.The journey of Roger Orr was a premonition of the cultural earthquakes to come. It wasn’t until his 40s that Roar learned his birth mother was black and it wasn't until his early 60s when he began the hormonal treatment and surgeries that chipped away at the armor covering what he always knew was his true identity: that of a woman.Roar’s saga is best told by a cacophony of voices—family members, critics, historians, and the famous (Meryl Streep, Amanda Gorman, Dave Chappelle, Andy Warhol)—including some heard from the grave. In ROAR, Wagner brilliantly paints a vivid picture of one man, our times, and our culture's enduring obsession with fame.For more about Bruce Wagner check out: www.brucewagner.la IG: @brucewagnerauthor TikTok: @brucewagnerauthor
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome one of my favorite non-fiction writers. Sam Quinones joins me to talk about his latest book The Least of Us: True Tales of America and Hope in the Time of Fentanyl and Meth (out now in paperback). I became a fan of Sam's work after reading Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic. His writing is powerful and informative. Check it out. Great conversation, great books, great guy.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
For more on Sam Quinones:
PURCHASE: The Least of Us
SamQuinones.com
IG: @samquinones_author
FB: @samquinonesjournalist
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I talk with the filmmaker Doron Drew Feldman. His new short film Pivot Pals will have its world premiere at Dances with Films in New York City (Sunday December 4, 2023 - Shorts Block #6 at 1:15pm ET).
Doron has many projects in the works including a tv series adaptation of New York Times best-selling author Yossi Klein HaLevi’s book Like Dreamers. He is also in development for his first feature film, Wolf And Fox Hunt a comedy set during the Gilded Age.
It was great having Doron on the show. I look forward to having him on again for a full length conversation.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
For more about Doron and his work check out:
www.drewfeldman.com
IG: @@dorondrewfeldman
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome writer Daniel Paisner. We had a great time talking about his new novel Balloon Dog, his career as a ghostwriter, and his part-time residence in Park City, Utah. Great book, great chat!Thanks for listening!Kyler---For more on Daniel's work: www.danielpaisner.com As Told To: The Ghostwriting Podcast FB: @danielpaisnerbooks Twitter: @DanielPaisner---Listen to Salt Lake Dirt's radio broadcast every Monday evening at 6:00PM PST on KPCR 101.9FM in Santa Cruz!
Today on the show I welcome Ingrid Werner. Ingrid is an actress based in London. You can see her in the new Disney film Disenchanted which premieres on Disney+ Friday November 18. This was a really fun conversation and I hope to have her back on the show at some point in the future. Thanks for listening!
For more on Ingrid: IMDb: imdb.me/ingridwerner Instagram: @ingridwerner TikTok: @wingy27 Facebook: @IngridWernerActor
Today on the show I get to talk with Erik Tarloff. Erik is the author of the national best-seller Face-Time, The Man Who Wrote the Book, and All Our Yesterdays. His early work was writing primarily for the screen, including an early draft of Disney’s animated Aladdin, & Car 54, Where Are You? for Orion Pictures. His TV work includes writing episodes of MASH, All in the Family, The Bob Newhart Show, The Jeffersons, Alice* and many others. He’s written pro bono speeches for Al Gore and former President Clinton. That’s just some of his work - he’s had a very prolific career.
I first heard about him in 2019 when his book The Woman in Black came out on Rare Bird Books. It was one of my favorites from that year. His latest novel is called Tell Me the Truth About Love. I highly recommend it. If you live in San Francisco pick up a copy at Books, Inc. or Pegasus if you are in Berkeley. For our LA listeners, as always, check out Book Soup or Skylight. If you're from my hometown in Salt Lake, Wellerworks is great place - located in downtown Salt Lake.
Erik was a blast to talk to and I hope we get him back on the show at some point in the future.
Thanks for listening. Kyler
This week I welcome back Jonathan Ames to the show. Jonathan is one of my favorite writers of all time. He has published several books (The Extra Man, You Were Never Really Here, A Named Named Doll) and is the creator for the TV series Bored to Death and Blunt Talk. His latest novel, The Wheel of Doll is available now through Mulholland Books. It's always a pleasure talking with Jonathan - and this time I even had his dog Fezzik hanging with me in the interview chair. He turned me into a sweater by the end of our conversation.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Purchase THE WHEEL OF DOLL (Book #2) Purchase A MAN NAMED DOLL (Book #1)
Bio & Synopsis from Mulholland Books: The Wheel of Doll (Mulholland Books) The eponymous and hapless detective Happy Doll returns with a new philosophy and a new case in this second installment of a series "that's a tightly coiled double helix of offbeat humor and unflinching violence" (New York Times Book Review). Although badly scarred and down to his last kidney after the previous caper, Happy Doll is back in business. When a beguiling young woman turns up at his door, it’s Doll’s past that comes knocking. Mary DeAngelo is searching for her estranged mother, Ines Candle—a singular and troubled woman Doll once loved. The last he’d seen her she’d been near-death: arms slit like envelopes. Although she survived the episode, she vanished shortly thereafter. Now, years later, Mary claims Ines is alive and has recently made contact—messaging her on Facebook and calling her from a burner phone—only to disappear once again. Although his psychoanalyst would discourage it, Doll takes the case, desperate to see Ines again. But as the investigation deepens, there are questions he can’t shake. What’s led the flighty Ines to reappear? Is Mary only relaying half the truth? And who is Mary’s strange and mysterious husband?
In this wholly original follow-up to A Man Named Doll, Happy travels through L.A., Washington, Oregon and back again—a journey that gets wilder and woolier with each turn. An irreverent and inventive mystery, The Wheel of Doll is not to be missed. Jonathan Ames is the author of I Pass Like Night; The Extra Man; What's Not to Love?; My Less Than Secret Life; Wake Up, Sir!; I Love You More Than You Know; The Alcoholic; The Double Life Is Twice as Good, and most recently, You Were Never Really Here (adapted into the acclaimed film starring Joaquin Phoenix). He's the creator of two television series, Blunt Talk and Bored to Death, and has had two amateur boxing matches, fighting as "The Herring Wonder."
This week I'm thrilled to welcome Mike Rinder to the podcast. I've been a huge fan and supporter of his work since I read Lawrence Wright's book Going Clear about the history and abuses of the Church of Scientology. Mike co-hosted the A&E documentary series Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath. He reunited with Remini for the podcast Scientology: Fair Game. Mike was kind of enough to take some time out of his busy schedule to talk about his new memoir A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology. I can't recommend this book enough. Thanks for listening! Kyler
For more about Mike and his work check out: Mike Rinder's Blog The Aftermath Foundation ("...help those who want to leave Scientology and the Sea Organization, but lack a system of support they can rely on while getting on their feet in the outside world.") IG: @rindermike While available you can purchase signed copies of A Billion Years HERE.
In this episode Mike mentioned these books: Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover Bare-Faced Messiah: The True Story of L. Ron Hubbad by Russell Miller Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome filmmakers Parker Rawlins and Wil Cowser (The Aud Brothers). Their short film THE CRIMSON BOUNDER has been pulling in awards at various film festivals and will be available on YouTube Sunday October 9, 2022.
I had a great time talking with this Utah based writer/director duo. We discuss updating classic tropes, keeping your cast and crew happy, and the importance of learning by doing.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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Watch The Crimson Bounder
For more on The Aud Brothers...
IG: @audbros
IG: @thecrimsonbounder
Steve Wiegand joins us today on Salt Lake Dirt. We had a great conversation about his new book 1876: Year of the Gun: The Year Bat, Wyatt, Custer, Jesse, and the Two Bills (Buffalo and Wild) Created the Wild West, and Why It's Still With Us. This fascinating work of non-fiction works on so many levels. Whether you have a deep interest in the American West or not I'm confident you'll find yourself absorbed in its pages.
Thanks for listening,
Kyler
Today I welcome back Gary Lippman. Gary wrote one of my top picks from 2019, Set the Controls for the Heart of Sharon Tate. His new book of short stories is entitled We Loved The World But Could Not Stay and is available through Rare Bird Books. This is a book I fell in love with quickly. Each story is one sentence long, which I'm still trying to figure out how he did this without it sounding forced! Amazing book, amazing guest!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Buy We Loved the World But Could Not Stay: * Amazon * Strand Books * IndieBound
For more on Gary Lippman check out:
Gary's Official Website
Twitter: @GLippman_Author
Instagram: @lippmangary
Facebook: @GaryLippmanOfficial
This week on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Scott Badler. His new historical fiction/YA crossover JFK & The Muckers of Choate (Bancroft Press) was a great read . I learned a lot about Kennedy from the book and from talking to Scott. This would be a great novel to have in school libraries across the country! Great guy, great chat, great book!
Order JFK & The Muckers of Choate: * Amazon * Barnes & Noble
I welcome back writer and filmmaker Duncan Birmingham (Blunt Talk, Maron) on this week's episode of Salt Lake Dirt [click HERE a previous interview with Duncan]. His feature film Who Invited Them is currently streaming on Shudder and AMC+ on Amazon Prime. I've become a big fan of Duncan's over the past couple of years and the new film totally sucked me in. Great film, great chat, great guy!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
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Grab a copy of Duncan's book The Cult In My Garage.
Skylight Books - Los Angeles
Amazon
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome writer Hannah Sward. We talk about her new memoir Strip (Tortoise Books. 9.6.22), growing up with a poet as a father, and teaching 'writing through trauma' workshops. I fell in love with Strip after just a few pages. I highly recommend that you pick up a copy wherever you get books and to keep an eye out for some of her upcoming author events.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
KPCR.org
For more about Hannah and Strip visit: * www.hannahsward.com * IG: @hannahdavisward * FB: @hannahsward.22
Purchase STRIP: * Indiebound * Amazon * Barnes & Noble
Today on Salt Lake Dirt I welcome Sean Thor Conroe. His novel Fuccboi was released this past January on Little Brown. Laura Albert first recommended Fuccboi to me. She always sends me books that I fall in love with. Fuccboi was an interesting read for me. It took me longer than normal to finish. I took my time with it. After I finished it, the book wouldn't seem to leave my consciousness and I thought about it frequently. I was excited to have some space between finishing Fuccboi and actually talking to Sean. I think it made for a better conversation. I can't wait to read more from Sean in the future. Great conversation, great book, great guy! Make sure to check out his podcast 1STORYPOD.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
KPCR.org
Today I welcome artist and filmmaker Juan Escobedo. I've been wanting to have Juan on the show for awhile so it was great to finally make it happen.
On this episode we talk about finding your artistic niche, his short film Marisol, the upcoming East Los Angeles Film Festival (Sept. 30 & Oct. 1, 2022) and of course the fact that we both have three dogs.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
@saltlakedirt
KPCR.org
On today's episode I welcome artist Dmitry Samarov. His new book Paint By Numbers can be pre-ordered on his website dmitrysamarov.com. It's a fascinating read with incredible visuals based off real events. Dmitry is host of the podcast hu u no and co-host for That Horrorcast with Mallory Smart.
On this episode we chat about Bruce Wagner, quitting social media, and podcasting during the pandemic.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
Artist Bio: Dmitry Samarov was born in Moscow, USSR in 1970. He immigrated to the US with his family in 1978. He got in trouble in 1st grade for doodling on his Lenin Red Star pin and hasn't stopped doodling since. After a false start at Parsons School of Design in New York, he graduated with a BFA in painting and printmaking from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1993.
Upon graduation he promptly began driving a cab—first in Boston, then after a time, in Chicago— which eventually led to the publication of his illustrated work memoirs Hack: Stories from a Chicago Cab (University of Chicago Press, 2011) and Where To? A Hack Memoir (Curbside Splendor, 2014).
Music to My Eyes (Tortoise Books, 2019) is his first non-cabbie-related book. Soviet Stamps (Pictures&Blather, 2020) is the second.
All Hack (Pictures&Blather, 2020) is a summation of his cabbie-related work. Old Style (Pictures&Blather, 2021) is his first work of fiction.
He has exhibited his work in all manner of bars, coffeeshops, libraries, and even the odd gallery (when he's really hard up).
He writes dog portraits and paints book reviews in Chicago, Illinois. You can see more of his work than you'd ever want to at dmitrysamarov.com.
On today's episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome filmmaker Jason Loftus. I first met Jason in Park City, Utah at the 2020 Slamdance Film Festival. His film Ask No Questions was one of the standout documentaries from Sundance/Slamdance that year for me. I was thrilled to hear that he had a new film coming out in 2022. Eternal Spring has been playing the festival circuit all over the world and bringing home several awards. It is such a unique film and I'm glad that I got to talk to Jason about the project.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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For more about the film visit:
- eternalspringfilm.com
- Twitter: @loftyskydocs
- Instagram: @loftyskydocs
- Facebook:@loftyskydocs
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I speak with Patrick O'Neil about his new memoir Anarchy at the Circle K. The book gives his account of touring in the 80s with punk bands like Dead Kennedys and TSOL while trying to maintain an increasingly unmanageable drug addiction.
I first discovered Patrick's work when I read his memoir Gun Needle Spoon and I completely fell in love with his writing. It was a pleasure getting to meet him and an honor to have him on the podcast.
Thanks for listening!
--- Kyler
For more on Patrick and his work check out: * Website: patrick-oneil.com * Twitter: @PatrickSONeil * IG: @patricksoneil
Purchase Anarchy at the Circle K
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome back author Liska Jacobs. Liska has been one of my favorite writers from the past few years. Her novel The Pink Hotel will be released July 19th on MCD. The book is incredible and I encourage everyone to pick up a copy. Liska will be in the USA promoting the book and you'll be able to find some of those events if you scroll to the bottom of the page.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
About The Pink Hotel:
"Newlyweds Keith and Kit Collins can hardly believe their luck when the general manager of the iconic, opulent Pink Hotel invites them to come for a luxurious stay as a bid to hire Keith. Kit loves their small-town life, but Keith has always wanted more, and the glittering, lily-scented lobby makes him feel right at home.
Soon after their arrival, wildfires sweep through the surrounding mountains and Los Angeles becomes a pressure cooker, with riots breaking out across the city amid rolling blackouts. The Pink Hotel closes its doors to "outsiders," and Keith and Kit find themselves confined with an anxious, disgruntled staff and a growing roster of eccentric, ultra-wealthy, dangerously idle guests who flock to the hotel for sanctuary, company, and entertainment.
The Pink Hotel exposes a tenuous class system within its walls, full of insurmountable expectations and unspoken resentments, which deteriorate as the city burns. In her barbed, provocative new novel, Liska Jacobs explores the corrosive nature of greed and interrogates the notion of true love, while hurtling readers toward certain disaster." (Source: MCD)
About the author:
"Liska Jacobs holds an MFA from the University of California, Riverside. Her essays and short fiction have appeared in The Rumpus, Los Angeles Review of Books, Literary Hub, The Millions, and The Hairpin, among other publications." (Source: LiskaJacobs.com)
Events:
Liska Jacobs presents The Pink Hotel with Karolina Waclawiak
Skylight Books
1814 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Jul 19, 7:30pm
Arts & Letters: Liska Jacobs
UCR Palm Desert Campus
75080 Frank Sinatra Drive, Palm Desert, CA
Jul 21, 6:00–7:00pm
Liska Jacobs: In conversation with Meg Howrey
Book Soup
8818 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Jul 29, 7:00pm
Smart Summer Reads
Manhattan Beach, CA
Jul 31, 3:00pm
The Pink Hotel : Book Launch with Liska Jacobs
Lettrétage
21 VeteranenstraßeBerlin, BE, 10119 Germany
Aug 28, 8:00pm
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Dori Molla. Her new book Corporate Command + Control + Eject [The Great Resignation] is out now! Great book, great conversation!
PURCHASE the book at:
- Barnes & Noble
- Amazon
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Let your demeanor be always marked by modesty and simplicity; as soon as you become forward ... you have lost your greatest charm of manner. You must also be perfectly good-natured and self-sacrificing; ready to play the smallest parts with the same interest you would throw into the principal ones. Try to throw out all the good points in the parts taken by the other members of the company. If you play an insignificant part, play it well, with all the grace you can, make the most of it, but do not try to raise it to the first place. Yield gracefully the prominent position to those who claim it in the plot of the play, and never try ... to go beyond the position set down for you.
Florence Hartley advice from The Ladies' Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness promoted as a Complete Handbook for the Use of The Lady in Polite Society in 1860 should not be the corporate handbook in 2022, should it?
Corporate Command + Control + Eject is a depiction of the stark differences between publicized corporate initiatives and stern internal borders defining a woman's place as limited and fixed.
About the Author
Dori Molla came to NYC as a 17-year-old on a Greyhound bus from a blue-collar New England town forgotten and ignored by elite circles. A year earlier she graduated high school as a straight A student in a small town in the Midwest. At 16, she had escaped a country broken apart by armed conflict. Her parents sacrificed a lot to give Dori a lifeline in the USA. She was an alien - a legal immigrant waiting for a green card - for nine years. During that time, Dori attended Hudson Community College in Jersey City studying computer science. She graduated with a bachelor degree from Hunter College. Later Dori earned a master degree from the New School. She enjoys reading Voltaire in French; Umberto Eco in Italian and Ismail Kadare in Albanian. Toni Morrison is one of her idols. The little girl who grew up during times of food shortages and black markets of forbidden literary works is a busy mom raising her children with her partner between Brooklyn and the Berkshires.
Dori Molla is mostly known across North America for her two decades of experience in the art scene mostly focused on music making endeavors.
On today's episode of Salt Lake Dirt I speak with filmmaker and actress Genevieve Adams. Her film Simchas and Sorrows is about an atheist actress who attempts to convert to Judaism to marry the man she loves. It will play this week at the Bentonville Film Festival. Genevieve wrote, directed, produced and starred in the film. I really loved this project and I look forward to it reaching a larger audience at some point. Great chat, great film! Thanks for listening.
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Purchase tickets for the in person or virtual screening HERE.
IN PERSON: Wed, Jun 22 2022 1:00pm CST
Thaden School Theater, 800 Southeast C Street, Bentonville, AR 72712
VIRTUAL SCREENING: Wed, Jun 22 2022 12:00am CST
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For about the film check out:
- www.simchasandsorrows.com
- Twitter: @SimchasFilm
Jerry Stahl - NEIN, NEIN, NEIN! - Episode 62
"ONE MAN'S TALE OF DEPRESSION, PSYCHIC TORMENT AND A BUS TOUR OF THE HOLOCAUST."
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I was thrilled to have the author Jerry Stahl on the show. Jerry has been one of my favorite authors since I first discovered his novel I, Fatty (a novel about the silent film star Fatty Arbuckle told as a memoir) nearly 20 years ago. Meeting him for the first time and being able to experience his humor and kindness made this episode a special one for me. His new book Nein, Nein, Nein! will be released July 5 on Akashic Books. I absolutely loved the new book and I'm confident you will too. Jerry has some upcoming book events. You can find that information below. Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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Upcoming Events for Jerry Stahl:
Upcoming Events for Jerry Stahl:
- Jerry Stahl in Conversation with Ben Stiller - Sun, Jun 12, 7:30 pm ET @92nd Street Y, NYC ( 1395 Lexington Ave.)
- Book Launch - Jerry Stahl in Conversation with Jonathan Ames -Tues, July 5, 7:00 pm PT @Stories Books & Cafe, Los Angeles (1716 W. Sunset Blvd.)
- Jerry Stahl in Conversation with Joshua Mohr - Fri, July 8, 7:00 pm PT @Green Apple Books on the Park, San Francisco (1231 9th Ave. at Lincoln Way).
- Jerry Stahl at Book Soup - Thurs, July 28, 7:00 pm PT @Book Soup, West Hollywood (8818 Sunset Blvd)
2022 DANCES WITH FILMS
"Isolated in lockdown, a depressed loner rushes into a new relationship only to be trapped by his partner’s manipulative abuse."
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I talk with Ben Hosking. Ben wrote and directed the short film And I Miss You Like A Little Kid which will have its world premiere at Dances with Films. Great film, great chat! Thanks for listening.
PURCHASE Tickets: SAT. June 11 @12:30PM
For more about the film visit:
- www.andimissyoulikealittlekid.com
- Facebook: @andimissyoulikealittlekid
- Instagram: @benjaminhosking
2022 DANCES WITH FILMS
"Three people experiencing homelessness in Portland, Oregon are empowered and begin to heal from childhood trauma by learning to make films in a grant-funded program."
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I talk with documentary filmmaker Melissa Gregory Rue. Her new film Live Out Loud will premiere the last day of Dances with Films. I loved this film and its nuance about the need for creative expression along with the many challenges that face those who do not have a home.
PURCHASE Tickets: Sun. June 19th @12:30PM - TCL Chinese Theatres, Hollywood, CA.
For more on Melissa and Live Out Loud check out:
- melissagregoryrue.com
- IG: @liveoutloud.doc & @melissagregoryrue
- FB: @LiveOutLoudDocumentary
- Twitter: @gregory_rue
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I talk with the creative team behind Desert Sky. David Hartsone (writer/director/producer) and Lexa Gluck (actress/producer) join me to talk about how the project was born and the film's upcoming world premiere at Dances with Films.
PURCHASE Tickets: Sat. June 18th @ 3:45PM - TCL Chinese Theatres, Hollywood, CA.
Check out the following IG profiles for more about the film:
@desertskyofficial
@seventhhousepro
@davehartstone
@lexagluck
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome author Elle Nash. I recently found her novel Animals Eat Each Other(Dzanc Books) and she has quickly become one of my favorite new writers. We had a great a chat about growing up in Colorado, her recent move to Scotland, and her upcoming book Gag Reflex (out June 21 on Clash Books). Make sure to check out her other books and her Patreon!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
On today's episode of Salt Lake Dirt I welcome actress and producer Mary Kate Wiles. You've seen her in the Emmy Award winning webseries The Lizzie Bennet Diariesand she currently stars as Vicky in the new Fairly OddParentsreboot out now on Paramount+. I had a blast talking with Mary Kate! Make sure to check out her projects over at Shipwrecked Comedy!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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For more on Mary Kate visit her Social Media/Links:
Tumblr
YouTube
Patreon
Shipwrecked Comedy
On today's episode I speak with filmmakers Laurence Madrigal & Jason O'Mahony. Their new documentary WE WERE HYPHY just premiered at Cinequest 2022. Great film, great chat!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
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Social and Web: WE WERE HYPHY
Instagram: @wewerehyphy
Website: www.wewerehyphy.com
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PRESS RELEASE:
WE WERE HYPHY is delighted to announce its World Premiere as part of the prestigious Cinequest 2022 Film Festival. The music documentary captures the hugely kinetic Hyphy movement, and brings the sights and sounds of the San Francisco Bay Area’s most influential musical movement of the past 30 years to life on the screen.
This music documentary feature traces Hyphy’s genesis on Bay Area streets and examines its influence with interviews from legendary figures such as Keak da Sneak and Mistah FAB to modern day artists such as Kamaiyah, Rafael Casal, P-Lo, and G-Eazy who grew up during the movement and were deeply influenced by it. Historical context is provided by columnists and academics such as Pendarvis Harshaw and Dr. Andrea L.S. Moore.
“Hyphy had a massive influence on me as a teenager,” says Laurence Madrigal, director of WE WERE HYPHY. “I grew up in Antioch and Hyphy was everywhere. It was on the streets, in our cars, in the clothes we wore, and in the way we spoke. I’ve always wanted to share my love of Hyphy with the world and this film is a love song to the era!”
On this episode of Salt Lake Dirt I talk with the Chicago-based writer and publisher Mallory Smart. Her book THE ONLY LIVING GIRL IN CHICAGO came out last summer on Trident Press. I absolutely loved the book! She is the editor-in-chief of the publishing house MAUDLIN HOUSE. She is also the host of the podcasts TEXTUAL HEALING and THAT HORRORCAST. Thanks for listening!
On this episode of The Salt Lake Dirt Podcast C.E. Hoffman (Sluts and Whores) and Winston Rowntree (Subnormality, People Watching) join us to talk about their new short film GTFO.
Artist Bios:
C. E. Hoffman is a writer of NA Urban Fantasy who has been published widely since 2010. A grant winner and member of the Writer's Union of Canada, they wrote their first novel at eleven years old, and have continued writing ever since. Find more weirdness at https://cehoffman.net/
Winston Rowntree is an artist, author, and filmmaker, who has illustrated for Cracked, Random House, and many others. Their webcomic Subnormality has been active since 2007, and their animated series People Watching has aired on Cracked and CBC. Find more at https://viruscomix.com/
This week on Salt Lake Dirt I speak with the author and screenwriter Bruce Wagner. Bruce is one of my favorite writers of all time. He has authored a dozen books and his work is something I've come revisit over and over again since I first saw his film Map to the Stars. His latest novel The Marvel Universewas released into the public domain in 2020 and can be found at brucewagner.la.
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
On today's episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast I speak with author Joe Ide. Joe is best known for writing the IQ crime series. His most recent book is The Goodbye Coast. The novel places Raymond Chandler's iconic character Philip Marlowe into modern day Los Angeles. Great book, great conversation!
Thanks for listening.
Kyler
On today's episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast I speak with actor, writer, and director Alison Rich. Her short film TRAINING WHEELS played at Sundance last month and was one of my favorites from the festival. Thanks for listening!
"Alison can currently be seen in the new seasons of The Other Two on HBO Max, Tuca and Bertie on Adult Swim and The Goldbergs on ABC. Previous acting credits include Drunk History, Angie Tribeca, The Lonely Island's Popstar, 2 Broke Girls, Life in Pieces, and more. She was also a series regular on The Lonely Island's Fox sketch show Party Over Here. Alison has staffed on Saturday Night Live, The Goldbergs, and Billy on the Street. She’s sold and developed shows for Comedy Central and TBS. Alison also wrote and directed a digital series called The MacMillan Genius Grant. She's directed viral videos for CollegeHumor as well as Ego Nwodim's sol show Great Black Women and Then There's Me. Alison appeared as a New Face for the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival." (Source: AlisonRich.com)
On today's episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast I speak with composer David Schwartz. David scored the new documentary film Lucy and Desi which was directed by Amy Poehler and had its world premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival.
David is a three-time Emmy-nominated whose credits includeArrested Development, Deadwood, and Northern Exposure. He is currently scoring season 2 of Peacock's comedy series Rutherford Falls.
I had such a blast talking with David. It was an honor speaking to such an accomplished composer and all-around great guy!
Thanks for listening!
Kyler
SLD
On today's episode of The Salt Lake Dirt Podcast we have Joe Escalante joining us. Joe is in one of my favorite bands of all time The Vandals. He also plays bass in the Smiths and Morrissey tribute band Sweet and Tender Hooligans(New EP - Querído Esteban). Make sure to check out his iHeartRadio program Joe Escalante, Live from Hollywood as well as his Fox Nation series Monsters Across America.
It dawned on me while preparing for this interview that The Vandals are the only band from my teenage years that I still listen to on a regular basis. It's incredible when people that you looked up to in your youth end up exceeding your expectations when you are able to meet them in person. Thanks for a fascinating conversation Joe. My teenage self would have lost his mind!
- The Vandal's Official Website
- The Vandals on Facebook
- The Vandals on Instagram
For a 2019 interview we did with Joe click HERE.
On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast we have author Mike DeCapite. His latest novel Jacket Weather (Soft Skull Press) is definitely one of my top picks for 2021. A big thanks to Tony DuShane for introducing me to Mike's work. Thanks for listening.
SYNOPSIS:
"Nick Hornby meets Patti Smith, Mean Streets meets A Visit From the Goon Squad in this quintessential New York City story about two people who knew each other in the downtown music scene in the 1980s, meet again in the present day, and fall in love."
Mike knew June in New York’s downtown music scene in the eighties. Back then, he thought she was “the living night—all the glamour and potential of a New York night when you’re 25.” Now he’s twice divorced and happy to be alone—so happy he’s writing a book about it. Then he meets June again. “And here she was with a raincoat over the back of the chair talking about getting a divorce and saying she’s done with relationships. Her ice-calm eyes are the same, the same her glory of curls.”
Jacket Weather is about awakening to love—dizzying, all-consuming, worldview-shaking love—when it’s least expected. It’s also about remaining alert to today’s pleasures—exploring the city, observing the seasons, listening to the guys at the gym—while time is slipping away. Told in fragments of narrative, reveries, recipes, bits of conversation and snatches of weather, the book collapses a decade in Mike and June’s life and shifts a reader to a glowing nostalgia for the present. (Soft Skull Press)
On today's episode of the podcast we have author Paul Haddad. I came across his new novel Paradise Palms and absolutely loved it. Late 1950s Hollywood couldn't be more interesting with this mob-centered noir. Definitely check it out. Paul also has a new non-fiction book entitled Freewaytopia, about how the freeways of Los Angeles shaped the city itself. Sounds like a fascinating read!
Thanks for listening!
Paul's Website
Instagram: @la_dorkout
Twitter: @la_dorkout
Facebook: @paulhaddadbooks
On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast we have author Richard Lange. His latest novel Rovers could be described as a modern take on Of Mice and Men with vampires and motorcycle gangs. With a description like that I had to read it and I was not disappointed. Richard is also the author of the collections Dead Boys and Sweet Nothing and the novels This Wicked World, Angel Baby, and The Smack. Thanks for listening!
Today on the show we have the creators and stars of the dramedy short/pilotLast Chance Moms. It was great speaking with Heather Olt and Sarah Chaney about their incredible project! Make sure to follow them on Instagram to find out what the future holds for Last Chance Moms! Thanks for listening.
Logline: "Two best friends in their 40s, one pregnant and unexpectedly dumped by her man-child boyfriend, the other unable to get pregnant despite countless efforts, decide to raise a baby together."
- Instagram: @lastchancemoms
- Last Chance Moms will be screening at the HollyShorts Film Festival (Oscar Qualifying Short Film Festival September 23-30, 2021). It will also be at The 2021 Catalyst Content Festival which will be held in-person (with a virtual option) from Wed Sept 29 - Sat Oct 2, 2021 in Duluth, Minnesota.
On today's episode we have author (Speakers of the Dead) and filmmaker Aaron Sanders. I was thrilled to find out that Aaron grew up in Salt Lake City. Whenever I meet someone originally from SLC, I immediately feel like I'm visiting with an old friend. It was a blast talking to him about his career.
His short film GARAGE recently played at Dances with Films and is currently making the rounds on the festival circuit. For those in the Atlanta area you can screen the film on Sunday September 19 at the 2021 Atlanta Underground Film Festival. Click HERE for tickets.
For more information about Aaron and the film:
- Official Website for Garage
- Author Website
- Twitter: @jaaronsanders
- IG: @j.aaronsanders
I was very excited to have author Megan Abbott on the podcast - even a bit nervous because I loved this latest book of hers so much. I am new to her work but now I am thrilled to go back and read all of her past novels. Her latest,The Turnout kind of blew my mind. It is definitely one of my top picks for 2021. Thanks for listening!
Synopsis: "Ballet flows through their veins. Dara and Marie Durant were dancers since birth, with their long necks and matching buns and pink tights, homeschooled and trained by their mother. Decades later the Durant School of Dance is theirs. The two sisters, together with Charlie, Dara’s husband and once their mother’s prize student, inherited the school after their parents died in a tragic accident nearly a dozen years ago. Marie, warm and soft, teaches the younger students; Dara, with her precision, trains the older ones; and Charlie, back broken after years of injuries, rules over the back office. Circling around each other, the three have perfected a dance, six days a week, that keeps the studio thriving. But when a suspicious accident occurs, just at the onset of the school’s annual performance of The Nutcracker, a season of competition, anxiety, and exhilaration, an interloper arrives and threatens the delicate balance of everything they’ve worked for.
Taut and unnerving, The Turnout is Megan Abbott a the height of her game. With uncanny insight and hypnotic writing, it is a sharp and strange dissection of family ties and sexuality, femininity and power, and a tale that is both alarming and irresistible." (MeganAbbott.com)
- Purchase THE TURNOUT
- IG: @melizaabbott
- Twitter: @meganeabbott
- FB: @MeganAbbottBooks
Today we talk to the filmmakers of Stealing Chaplin(Now available on Amazon Prime). Paul Tanter and Simon Phillips discuss their film that was inspired by the true story of Charlie Chaplin's body being dug up and held for ransom in late 1970s Switzerland. Truth is definitely stranger than fiction in this case. Great chat, great film! Thanks for listening.
Salt Lake Dirt with Kyler Bingham
For more about the film:
- Facebook: @StealingChaplin
- Instagram: @StealingChaplin
- Twitter: @StealingChaplin
Our continued coverage of DANCES WITH FILMS has led me to some incredible short films. One in particular has stayed with me ever since I saw it about a week ago. I don't want to give any spoilers but I'll just say that Oh Baby! had my laughing out loud by myself. After I watched it I couldn't stop thinking about all of the important issues and themes it brought up. Brooke Trantor and Kate Morgan Chadwick are the creators of this incredibly well made short film. I absolutely loved having these two on the podcast. Thanks for listening!
*Purchase Tickets for the 1:30 PT screening of Oh Baby!on Saturday 9/4***
For updates about future screenings follow:
IG: @ohbabyfilm
Our continued coverage of DANCES WITH FILMS has led me to some incredible short films. One in particular scratched my itch for old Hollywood. I was very excited to talk with Nate Barlow, the filmmaker behind A Brief History of Hollywood(Purchase tickets for September 7th screening HERE). We had a great conversation about the making of the film in this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. Thanks for listening!
I came across a fantastic short story collection recently called Sluts and Whores. CE Hoffman is the author and I fell in love with this book even before I finished the first story. I could tell immediately that this was damn good writer. I was very excited to have CE on the podcast. Among other topics, we had a great conversation about art, solitude, and our love/hate with social media. Thanks for listening!
Website: cehoffman.net
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CEHoffman2
Youtube: http://youtube.com/c/CEHoffman
Indie buy link (Astoria)
Non-indie (Barnes and Noble)
"An artist is driven to a homicidal rage by a world gone mad..." That is the premise for the film we will be discussing this week on the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. On Saturday we'll be joined by the creators of the film RUST BELT DRILLER. The film is part of the Dances With Films Midnight series and will screen in person at the world famous Chinese Theater in Hollywood this Friday Sept. 27 @11:55pm
Thanks for listening.
FB: Rust Belt Driller
On today's show we are joined by underwater cinematographer Ian Seabrook. Ian was the underwater director of photography for the Disney blockbuster film Jungle Cruise. He also worked on M. Night Shyamalan's Old, and as of this posting you can still see it in theaters. Check out his IMDB page to see what other projects he has worked on - I was completely blown away by the scope of his work. It was great speaking with him about his incredible career and I have a new appreciation for underwater photography. Thanks for listening!
I was very excited to have Duncan Birmingham on the show for this week's episode. He is a writer, producer, filmmaker and his new book of short stories, The Cult in My Garage was released today on Maudlin House. Duncan was a writer and executive producer on the IFC series Maron starring Marc Maron. He also wrote on the Jonathan Ames Starz series Blunt Talk starring Patrick Stewart. Two amazing shows if you have not had the change to see them. I absolutely love Duncan's book and I highly recommend that you pick up a copy at Skylight Books in Los Feliz. I'm confident you'll love it too. Thanks for listening!
One of the stand out films of the Berlin International Film Festival this past spring was without a doubt Fred Baillif's LA MIF. Fred is our guest today and it was incredible speaking with him about filmmaking, social work, and 90s American basketball! Enjoy.
LA MIF synopsis:
A group of teenage girls have been placed in a residential care home with social workers. This forced "family" experience creates unexpected tensions and intimacies. An incident triggers a chain of over-reactions. They live under the same roof but they haven't chosen each other, just like a family.
On episode 34 of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast I speak with the wonderful filmmaker and artist Gretl Claggett. Her film Stormchaser has played all over the world this past year in over 50 film festivals and has won numerous awards. This episodic film really grabbed my attention and I hope to see more from this anthology series in the future! Thanks for listening.
For more on Gretl:
https://gretlclaggett.com/
https://stormchaser.film/
One of my favorite films from this year's Los Angeles Greek Film Festival was The Unknown Athenians. The film shows the lives of stray dogs living on the streets of Athens, Greece. This seemed to me like a challenging subject matter and because of that, I really wanted to speak with the filmmaker Angeliki Antoniou. The Unknown Athenians recently won the 2021 Hellenic Film Award for Best Documentary (think Oscars for Greece). On today's episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast, Angeliki talks with me about the documentary, the dogs, and her incredible career as a filmmaker. Thanks for listening! Kyler www.saltlakedirt.com
On today's episode we are joined by cinematographer David McFarland. He was the DP for 12 Mighty Orphans (starring Luke Wilson). The film premiered at Tribeca earlier this month and is now in wide release. I had such a great time talking with David about his work and I can't wait to see what projects he has in store for us in the future. Thanks for listening!
One of my favorite cinematic experiences from the past few months was the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival. This was the first time I had covered the festival and I was completely blown away. The staggering amount of beautiful films there is an understatement. One of my favorite documentaries there was My Rembetika Blues. Remebetika is a form of music I had never heard of before but instantly feel in love with it. It was amazing to be able to talk with filmmaker Mary Zournazi about the project. Thanks for listening!
On Episode 30 of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast we talk with filmmaker Michelle Bossy. She directed UNDER THE LANTERN LIT SKY which recently had its world premiere at the 2021 Brooklyn Film Festival. If you are a fan of A Streetcar Named Desire, this is a film you don't want to miss.
Great chat! Thanks for listening!
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FILM SYNOPSIS: Under the Lantern Lit Sky explores the new marriage of a young couple in 1930s Mississippi who in different ways are coming to terms with their sexuality. (Source: michellebossy.com)
On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast, we talk to Scott Aharoni & Dennis Latos of Duo Entertainment about their short film LEYLAK which recently played in-person at the Tribeca Film Festival. The festival is running their shorts selection online through June 23, 2021 so there is still time to catch this incredible film. Thanks for listening!
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"In present-day Queens, a Turkish gravedigger (Nadir Saribacak) is unable to face a shattering truth and risks losing the dearest connection left in his life." (Source: Duo Entertainment)
One of the stand out films of this year's Brooklyn Film Festival was American Desert. On this episode of the podcast I spoke with Adrian Bartol (writer/director) and Will Brandt (lead actor) about their process for developing this incredibly important film.
Thanks for listening!
FILM SYNOPSIS: It's 2010, Matt Benning (Will Brandt) 24, has returned from Afghanistan to a wrecked economy. Demons of war haunt him, a romance blossoms, all as he drags his unwilling soul to normalcy. But for him, destiny is no cookie cutter house. A vortex of drug use and violence corners him into working for a psychopathic meth dealer. His only escape then becomes surrendering to the majestic and unforgiving isolation of the American Desert... (Source: american-desert.com)
- Watch the trailer for American Desert here.
- Official Website for American Desert
- IG for Will Brandt
I'm very excited to announce that Jeff Seal's latest docu-comedy series is available in full on his YouTube channel. I had such a great time talking with Jeff about comedy, filmmaking, and of course, clowning. Thanks for listening!
"Echoing satirical muckraking efforts such as Michael Moore’s Roger and Me, New York’s Worst Landlords began as an attempt to interview the worst offenders on the New York City Advocate’s Office annual Worst Landlord Watchlist, which catalogs the worst repeat landlord offenders in New York City’s cutthroat and unaffordable rental market. The filmmakers were inspired in part by the Unsheltered series of articles in the NY Times about vulnerable New Yorkers being forced out of their rent-stabilized apartments by unscrupulous landlords." (SOURCE: Shark Party Media - Press Release)
I was thrilled to get Tyler Measom on the podcast. A fellow Utahn, Tyler is behind some of best documentary work out there. An Honest Liar and Sons of Perdition are two films of his that have stayed with me for years. It was pleasure talking with him about his most recent release Murder Among the Mormons. Check it out on Netflix if you haven't already! --- "High-stakes exploits turn deadly — and shake a global church to its core — in this extraordinary true crime story." (Netflix)
The Los Angeles Greek Film Festival runs through May 30th. One of the films that stood out to me was Witchin'. I absolutely loved this film and was thrilled when I was able to speak with the filmmaker Christina Diamantara. Keep an eye for her future work!
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Christina Recommends:
Seven Minutes of Soul
Ballad for a Pierced Heart
Kyler Recommends:
My Rembetika Blues
Alicia Robbins lighting tutorial (Grey's Anatomy)
I was thrilled when Howard Paar agreed to talk with me about his new novel Top Rankin' (out May 11, 2021 on Rare Bird). Howard has had (and continues to have) an incredible career in the music business. He primarily works as a music supervisor for major motion pictures. Click HERE to learn more about Howard's amazing work in music.
Top Rankin' is a ska noir novel. I've never read anything quite like it and I loved it for that. It combines so many things that I have a passion for (noir, ska & punk music, etc.) and does it well!
When you read Top Rankin' make sure you play it's accompanying Spotify playlist. Fantastic music that follows the narrative of the book!
Thanks for listening! Kyler Bingham @saltlakedirt
"Howard Paar is an award winning music supervisor who was born and raised in London before continuing his career in Los Angeles. He has won Guild Of Music Supervisors Awards in 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2020 respectively for Diary Of A Teenage Girl, 20th Century Women, Before I Fall and Native Son. He is a proud member of the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences Class of 2017." (HowardPaar.com)
On this episode of the podcast we have stand-up comedian Jessica Watkins. Jessica self-produced the documentary film SPECIALish (available now on VOD) about her experience walking across America performing stand-up gigs along the way. It won Best Film at Broad Humor Festival and at New Filmmakers Festival NYC. I loved the film! It packs a powerful punch -- hilarious, personal, and moving. I had a blast talking with Jessica and I look forward to seeing more from her in the future.
- Jessica Watkin's Website
- SPECIALish Website
- Instagram: @special_ish
- Twitter: @ajessicawatkins
Episode 20: JONATHAN AMES On today's episode we have one of my favorite writers of all time. Jonathan Ames was kind enough to talk with me about his new book A Man Named Doll. A true page turner, the novel has the feel of modern day Raymond Chandler or Dashiell Hammett. I'm look forward to reading more in the Doll series. Thanks for listening!
Books Jonathan recommends:
Give Me Your Hand by Megan Abbott
What Happens at Night by Peter Cameron
The Lew Archer Series by Ross MacDonald
You can find poetry from Florence Ames (Jonathan's mother) here:
Come With Me by Florence Ames (Also available on Amazon)
Sit With Me by Florence Ames
This week Kyler recommends:
The Marvel Universe by Bruce Wagner (Public Domain & Book Soup)
On today's show we talk with Ross Riege about his career as a Director of Photography. We had a fascinating conversation about the wide variety of projects he has worked on. His most recent show Rutherford Falls premieres 4/22/21 on Peacock. Make sure you check out this unique comedy starring Ed Helms!
On today's episode we have an incredible director of photography. Jayson Crothers (Chicago Fire, Force of Nature) has had a pretty remarkable career of consistent and varied work. Cruel Summer is his most recent show and it premieres on Freeform and Hulu this week. Make sure to check it out, especially if you were a teen in the 90s - I think you'll dig it.
Thanks for listening!
Erin Hensley and Julia Callahan hosts the podcast Dawson's Critique where they dissect every episode of the WB classic Dawson's Creek. On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast Erin and Julia talk with me about their new book I Remember Everything, a must have for any fan of the show.
On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast we welcome back author Chip Jacobs. He recently released an incredible true crime book called The Darkest Glare. Pick up a copy at Chip's hometown bookstore VROMON'S in Pasadena. Thanks for listening!
"Late-seventies Los Angeles was rampant with shady characters, but all the go-getters at Space Matters saw was possibility. Richard Kasparov was handsome and charismatic; his younger associate, Jerry Schneiderman, brilliant and nerdy. When the pair hired a veteran contractor to oversee construction, the space planning firm they operated out of a hip mansion in LA’s Miracle Mile district appeared poised to transform the boundless skyline into their jackpot. Then the promising team imploded, spilling treachery on the blueprints. Assassins, working in a murder-for-hire corporation, required a comical number of attempts to execute their target. Once they did, the surviving founder of Space Matters was thrown into a pressure cooker existence out of a Coen Brothers movie. Threatened for money he didn’t have, he donned a disguise, trying to outfox a glowering murderer, while asking if you can ever really know anyone in a town where blood soaks the land." (Source: ChipJacobs.com)
2021 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL "A struggling black college grad wakes up to find that reparations have finally been paid to descendants of slaves in America." (2021 Slamdance Festival Guide) Filmmaker Symone Baptiste joins me for a conversation about her short episodic film Sixteen Thousand Dollars (now playing at Slamdance). This film in incredible! Funny, timely, and deeply thought provoking. Do yourself a favor and keep an eye out for anything she is involved with in the future. I look forward to having Symone on the podcast again once the world returns to some kind of normality. Thanks Symone for the great conversation!
2021 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL "After an unlikely casting onto a reality television show, 47-year old suburban telemarketer Ed Popil leaves his job to pursue a full-time entertainment industry career as his drag queen alter ego, 1960’s era housewife Mrs. Kasha Davis." (2021 Slamdance Festival Guide) On this episode of the podcast we talk with Mrs. Kasha Davis and filmmaker Angela Washko. Their film Workhorse Queen is a fascinating documentary that had me hooked from beginning to end. Definitely one of my top documentary picks from Slamdance this year. -- Kyler Bingham www.saltlakedirt.com
I had such a great time talking to filmmaker and actor Jack Dunphy on this full episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast! "A high school filmmaker wins the heart of a troubled young woman, only to loose her in the course of a harrowing psychedelic experience that forces him to confront life truths that are at once beautiful and painful." (Slamdance 2021 Festival Guide) Watch REVELATIONS at the 2021 Slamdance Film Festival (Click to Purchase Tickets)
Episode 13: 2021 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL Bleeding Audio is our TOP documentary pick this year at Slamdance. An incredible story chronicling the best kept secret in music, The Matches. "From inspiring triumphs to heartbreaking setbacks, Bleeding Audio relives the explosive career of The Matches and what it means to succeed in the digital age of music." (2021 Slamdance Festival Guide) Purchase a Slamdance Virtual Pass for access to BLEEDING AUDIO
Official site for BLEEDING AUDIO
Official site for THE MATCHES
Episode 14: NOW IS NOT THE BEST TIME (Jackie Dow & Seth Birkan) - Slamdance 2021 On this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast, we talk with Jackie Dow (director) and Seth Birkan (writer) of the web series Now is Not the Best Time. The episode Half Court will play at the 2021 Slamdance Film Festival. Grab a virtual pass for $10 and gain access to all of the festival's programming from February 12-25. "Alisa gets a chance to win $50,000 by making a half-court shot at a Knicks game but her anxiety quickly derails her when she learns the contest is going to be on TV." (2021 Slamdance Festival Guide)
Instagram @nowisnotthebesttime
SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2021 Noel David Taylor's feature film, Man Under Table or: I'm Writing a Movie, is one of my top Slamdance picks this year. Check out our podcast episode with Noel! "Set against the backdrop of a comically surreal and anachronistic Los Angeles, a beleaguered young man tries to write a movie but instead gets pulled into everyone else's projects as he hallucinates his way through a bizarre indie film scene." (Slamdance Festival Guide) Official Website for the film
(18:40) Writer/Director Matthew Wade as well as lead actors Sara Lynch, Sara McDonald join us for this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. "As two former classmates dig into their deceased professor’s set of cassette tapes, which possibly contain recordings of strange signals from beyond the stars, they begin to feel memories, the chronology of time, and their identities slip into obscurity." (Slamdance Festival Guide) Watch the film at Slamdance 2021 (Feb. 12 - 25)
On this episode of the podcast filmmaker Emily Shir Segal joins me to talk about her documentary short film 'I think it's enough, isn't it?' playing at the 2021 Slamdance Film Festival.
"Reconstructing one last encounter with Dad." (2021 Slamdance Festival Guide)
www.saltlakedirt.com
Author Nick Flynn joins Kyler Bingham for a discussion on his most recent work. Nick has released three books in the past year with the most recent being This is the Night Our House Will Catch Fire, a memoir recounting his childhood in Massachusetts. For more from Nick Flynn, check out nickflynn.org
The funniest film I saw at Slamdance/Sundance in 2020 was unquestionably Steve Markle's documentary Shoot to Marry (Now available on Amazon Prime). It was great to meet and interview Steve in Park City before the world imploded and I was thrilled to talk with him again this past August for the podcast. Make sure to check out his other film Camp Hollywood as well (also streaming on Amazon Prime). Shoot to Marry - Website Slamdance Interview with Steve Markle - Salt Lake Dirt
Chip Jacobs is known for his award winning journalism and non-fiction (Smogtown; The People's Republic of Chemicals). Arroyo is his first novel and it lives up to the quality of his previous work. The novel tackles the rich history of Pasadena, California and is primarily set in the year 1913. The work of historical fiction was released last year. Chips latest book The Darkest Glare: A True Story of Murder, Blackmail, and Real Estate Greed in 1979 Los Angeles will be released in March 2021 on Rare Bird. Thanks for listening! Kyler www.saltlakedirt.com
On this week's episode we are celebrating the recent audiobook release for Sarah by JT LeRoy. We were joined in conversation with five of the people responsible for this project. I want to send a huge 'thank you' to Laura Albert, Winsome Brown, Nicole Gagne, Jayme Mattler, and Bryan Barney for taking the time to talk with me about this wonderful project.
This week's guests include: LAURA ALBERT has won international acclaim for her fiction. Writing as JT LeRoy, she is the author of the best-selling novels Sarah and The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things, and the novella Harold's End. Sarah and The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things, reissued by HarperCollins, have also been released as audiobooks by Blackstone Publishing. Laura Albert is the subject of Jeff Feuerzeig's feature documentary Author: The JT LeRoy Story and Lynn Hershman Leeson's film The Ballad of JT LeRoy. http://lauraalbert.org/
Winsome Brown is an Obie-award winning performer whose solo theater work has been seen at La MaMa, The Performing Garage, and the Edinburgh Fringe, and has received accolades from The New York Times, the Scotsman and many more. Recent film and TV work includes Supergirl, Elementary, and the upcoming News of the World with Tom Hanks. http://winsomebrown.com/
Nicole V. Gagné is a writer and editor who works with Laura Albert. She is the co-author of Soundpieces: Interviews with American Composers, and the author of Sonic Transports: New Frontiers in Our Music, Soundpieces 2: Interviews with American Composers, and The Historical Dictionary of Modern and Contemporary Classical Music, now in its second edition.
Jayme Mattler directed the audiobook for Sarah. https://www.jaymemattler.com/
Bryan Barney produced the audiobook for Blackstone Publishing. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kyler Bingham is the host of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. www.saltlakedirt.com
Tony DuShane is the author of Confessions of a Teenage Jesus Jerk. He also wrote the screenplay for the film of the same title (directed by Eric Stolz) which is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. His literary podcast Drinks with Tony releases new episodes every Wednesday. Our print interview with Tony from early this year can be found HERE.
This week's book recommendation is The Marvel Universe by Bruce Wagner.
Visit us at www.saltlakedirt.com
Kyler Bingham talks with author Gary Lippman on this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. Gary's novel SET THE CONTROLS FOR THE HEART OF SHARON TATE was released by Rare Bird Books in 2019.
"Born and raised in New Jersey, Gary Lippman received a law degree from Northwestern University and has worked with New York’s Innocence Project. Lippman’s play Paradox Lust ran off-off-Broadway for a month in 2001 and his writing has been published in The New York Times, The Paris Review, VICE, Fodors, Upstate Diary, Open City, Sex And Design, and 8 By 8, while his visual art can be seen at apocalippy.com.
Having lived in Illinois, Florida, California, and France, Lippman can now be found in what used to be called “Fun City” with his Hungarian wife Vera and his whenever-he’s-inclined-to-visit adult son Gabriel." (Author Biography from garylippmanofficial.com)
Kyler Bingham talks with author Laura Bogart on this episode of the Salt Lake Dirt Podcast. Laura is known primarily for her non-fiction writing. Her long list of credits include contributions to The Week and DAME Magazine. Laura's much anticipated first novel Don't You Know I Love You was released by Dzanc Books in March of this year.
My favorite novel of 2017 was Liska Jacobs's Catalina and I've been anticipating her second novel ever since. The Worst Kind of Want was recently released by MCD Books and I was not disappointed. Liska's books can be read at a fast clip but they are the furthest thing from a "beach read." Tackling some pretty heavy topics and social taboos, The Worst Kind of Want will leave you wide-eyed and wanting more from this incredible author.
SLDirt Podcast Credits: Host: Kyler Bingham Music:
Open Licensed Music Podcast - Ralph Wacksworth; Free Salt Lake by Politically Erect.
Intro/Outro Spoken Word:
Paul "Mousie" Garner
"Los Angeles Times Bestselling Author Stephen Jay Schwartz spent a number of years as the Director of Development for Wolfgang Petersen (Das Boot, In the Line of Fire, Air Force One, Troy, The Perfect Storm) where he worked to develop screenplays for production. His two novels, Boulevard and Beat, follow the journey of sex-addicted LAPD detective Hayden Glass. Stephen was a judge for the 2012 Edgar and ITW Awards. His work was included in the short story collection The Los Angeles Fiction Anthology alongside T.C. Boyle, published by Red Hen Press, as well as the short story collection Jewish Noir, published by PM Press.
Stephen is a regular moderator at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books and judged the Los Angeles Times Book Prize in the mystery/thriller category in 2015 and 2016. His film work has been exhibited in the A.F.I. Los Angeles International Film Festival and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC. He is currently editing a compilation of short, non-fiction stories called Hollywood versus the Author for Rare Bird Books as well as writing his third novel, a standalone mystery/thriller. Stephen received his MFA in Creative Writing from UC Riverside and is currently on faculty at Emerson College Los Angeles." (http://www.stephenjayschwartz.com/) SLDirt Podcast Credits: Host: Kyler Bingham Music:
Open Licensed Music Podcast - Ralph Wacksworth;
Free Salt Lake by Politically Erect.
Intro/Outro Spoken Word:
Paul "Mousie" Garner