I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mike Rinder today. Mike was an activist and author who had an unmeasured level of dedication to his cause. In the few interactions I had with him, he was extremely kind and generous with his time.

This week's episode is from when Mike joined me to talk about his memoir A Billion Years. I hope you enjoy it. We'll miss you Mike.

---

Original Airdate: October 10, 2022

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 first 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 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. It's one I will definitely revisit over the years.

Thanks for listening! 

Kyler

--

Episode Links:

Episode 294

Guest: Emily Costa

Book: Girl on Girl: Stories

---

Today Emily Costa joins us on Salt Lake Dirt. We dive into her collection Girl on Girl: Stories, exploring the intricate dynamics of female relationships and the creative journey that led to this compelling work.

Emily shares the evolution of her writing process, from her early days in an MFA program to the moment of realization that her stories about the multifaceted relationships between girls had coalesced into a thematic collection. We discuss the significance of titles in short stories, the challenges of revising, and the satisfaction of crafting lines that resonate deeply with readers.

In this episode, we also explore the blend of humor and melancholy in Emily's stories, focusing on memorable pieces like "Ethan Marino," which artfully captures the bittersweet emotions surrounding a ten-year high school reunion. Emily opens up about her influences, including her love for horror films and the impact of her father's involvement in low-budget 80s horror movies on her creative outlook.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

Episode 293

Guest: Gabriella Lester

Profession: Magician, Escape Artist, Stunt Performer

---

Today I am thrilled to welcome the extraordinary magician and escape artist Gabriella Lester to the show. Join us as we delve into her early beginnings, where a passion for magic ignited at a young age, leading her to an incredible career that defies the conventional path.

Gabriella shares her experiences of growing up in the magic community, finding mentors, and honing her craft with relentless dedication. We explore the unique challenges and joys of performing at prestigious venues like the Magic Castle, and how each audience interaction shapes her performances. Gabriella's natural ability to connect with people shines through as she discusses the psychology behind her art and the empathy required for engaging live shows.

We also discuss Gabriella's upcoming TEDx Talk, where she will share her personal journey and the profound impact of pursuing one's passions. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of living in the moment.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 292

Guest: Charlene Elsby

Book: Red Flags: Stories and Other Disturbances

---

Join me as I welcome back the brilliant author Charlene Elsby to Salt Lake Dirt. Charlene returns to discuss her latest collection, Red Flags: Stories and Other Disturbances, released on October 30th by House of Vlad. We delve into the inspiration behind this compelling collection of short stories, exploring themes of death and the human psyche. Charlene shares insights into her writing process, revealing how real-life events and introspection shape her narratives.

In this episode, we explore the profound and often humorous aspects of mortality, as Charlene's stories capture the authentic flow of consciousness in moments of life and death. We discuss the influence of ketamine treatments on my personal perspective on death and how they resonate with the themes in Charlene's work. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we discuss empathy, creativity, and the absurdity of life and death.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 291

Guest: RAINBOWCURLIE

Single: Fever Dream

---

I am thrilled to welcome the talented musician RAINBOWCURLIE to Salt Lake Dirt. Known for their poetic songwriting and captivating sound, RAINBOWCURLIE joins us to discuss their latest single Fever Dream released on December 6th.We delve into their creative journey, starting from their early days of writing to their exploration of music production as a teenager. RAINBOWCURLIE shares their process of crafting songs and how the latest track, Fever Dream, evolved through collaboration with fellow artist Luna Estelle.

We also discuss artistic influences, including Melanie Martinez and Fiona Apple, and the world-building elements they incorporate into music to create immersive auditory experiences.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 290

Guest: Bastiaan Rook

Film: Citroen

---

Today I welcome back filmmaker Bastiaan Rook to the show. We dive into Bastiaan's latest film, Citroen, a captivating project translated as "Lemon" in English. The film flips the typical cult narrative on its head, offering a fresh perspective that challenges the norm.

We explore the logistics of shooting with a modest budget and the creative freedom it allows, resulting in a film that feels both spontaneous and authentic.

The episode provides insights into the casting process, highlighting the chemistry among the actors, many of whom were recent graduates or still studying. Bastiaan reflects on the rewarding experience of working with emerging talent and the film's success, including winning the audience award at a graduation film event.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 289

Guest: Jeremiah M. Carter

Production Company: Dear Austintown

---

In this episode I welcome back filmmaker Jeremiah M. Carter to discuss his creative journey and the evolution of his production company, Dear Austintown. Jeremiah shares the inspiration behind his films and the unique approach of forming a loose collective of artists collaborating on various projects.

We delve into the creative process behind his films, exploring the balance between spontaneity and meticulous planning. Jeremiah opens up about his artistic influences, from his early days in Nashville, to his current life in New York City, and how these experiences shape his storytelling.

Jeremiah reflects on the reception of his work in Mexico and the profound impact of screening his films for audiences familiar with the cultural and historical context. We also discuss the significance of community in filmmaking and the collaborative spirit that drives his projects.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 288

Guest: Liv Rylan

Single: Statement Necklace

---

Today I talk with the extraordinary musician Liv Rylan as she returns to Salt Lake Dirt to discuss her latest single Statement Necklace. Liv shares the creative journey behind the song, highlighting her collaboration with producer Rylie Day. We explore the evolution of her songwriting process and the unique challenges of balancing multiple roles as a musician, producer, and content creator of her own work.

Liv opens up about the artistic influences that shape her visual and musical style, drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood aesthetics infused with a modern twist. We delve into her passion for creating a cohesive artistic persona, influenced by her love for old Hollywood glam and theatrical performances.

Be sure to listen to Statement Necklace at the end of the episode!

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 287

Guest: Shoval Tshuva

Film: Funky

---

In this episode I am thrilled to welcome back the talented filmmaker Shoval Tshuva to discuss her film Funky, a poignant dramedy exploring the journey of a young woman reclaiming her power after trauma. Shoval shares the intricacies of directing herself in the lead role, revealing the unique challenges and rewards of balancing these dual responsibilities. She opens up about her creative process, the inspiration behind the film, and how humor plays a vital role in addressing serious themes.

We delve into the film's reception across various screenings in Los Angeles, New York, and Israel, and the profound impact it has had on audiences, particularly survivors of trauma. Shoval reflects on the empowering experience of sharing her personal story and the emotional responses it has elicited.

We talk about her Substack, where she humorously chronicles her dating experiences in New York City, and discuss her upcoming projects, including a new short film, Spiral, which tackles the complexities of modern relationships.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 286

Guest: Jack Dunphy

Podcast: Revelations with Jack Dunphy

---

On this episode I welcome back filmmaker and now podcaster, Jack Dunphy to discuss his new podcast, Revelations with Jack Dunphy, which launched on October 15. Known for his award-winning short films such as Bob's Funeral, Jack shares his journey from filmmaking to podcasting, inspired by a desire to connect more directly with audiences beyond the film festival circuit.

Jack opens up about the personal and raw nature of the podcast, which mirrors the autobiographical style of his films. We explore the themes of sobriety, personal growth, and the importance of open and honest conversations with guests like his sister Ruby Lucinda and actress Betsey Brown. Jack reflects on the challenges and rewards of sharing deeply personal stories, and the balance between vulnerability and self-preservation.

We also delve into Jack's creative process, the initial idea behind the podcast, and the unique guests featured in the first season. Jack candidly discusses the anxiety and excitement leading up to the podcast's release, and the impact of his own life experiences.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

---

Episode Links:

---

SLD Podcast Info: