Salt Lake Dirt

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm excited to welcome Elizabeth Ellen to discuss her new book, American Thighs. The novel follows a young woman who, after a tumultuous childhood in Hollywood, attempts to reclaim her lost adolescence by enrolling in high school as her own daughter. Elizabeth shares the inspiration behind this unique storyline, drawn from a real-life news story.

We talk complexities of identity, the longing for lost youth, and the societal pressures faced by both teenagers and adults. Elizabeth discusses her writing style, which features multiple character perspectives. We also explore the themes of nostalgia, the impact of Hollywood on personal identity, and the intricate dynamics of high school life.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Purchase American Thighs
• Hobart Pulp
• IG: @shortflightlongdrive

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm excited to welcome documentarian and author Julie Seabaugh to discuss her anticipated documentary, Are We Good? This intimate film delves into the life of comedian Marc Maron, exploring his journey through grief following the loss of his girlfriend, Lynn Shelton. Julie, who serves as the creator, producer, and story editor for the film, shares her passion for comedy and how it shaped her approach to storytelling.

We discuss the unique challenges of crafting a documentary that captures Maron's vulnerability and authenticity. Julie reflects on her own experiences with comedy and how they influenced her work. The film not only highlights Maron's creative process but also serves as a poignant exploration of grief and healing in the wake of loss.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Screenings for Are We Good?
• Julie's Website

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm excited to welcome author Will Sloan to discuss his new book, Ed Wood: Made in Hollywood USA. Will talks about the life and work of Ed Wood, the cult filmmaker often dubbed the "worst director of all time." We explore how Will first came across Ed Wood's films and what inspired him to write this comprehensive examination of Wood's unique artistic vision.

Will shares anecdotes from his childhood that led to a lifelong fascination with Ed Wood, including his early experiences watching Plan 9 from Outer Space. We delve into the complexities of Wood's character, his passion for filmmaking, and the intriguing mix of personalities that populated his films.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Purchase Ed Wood: Made in Hollywood USA
• Will's Website

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm thrilled to welcome Russ Swain and Michael McKinley to discuss their captivating memoir, Diamond Dust: How a Nice Mormon Boy Became a Brilliant Counterfeiter. This incredible story chronicles Russ's journey from a talented artist to a skilled counterfeiter, revealing the unexpected twists and turns that led him down this unconventional path.

In our conversation, Russ shares the initial reluctance he felt about telling his story and how encouragement from his friend Mike Ford propelled him to embrace his past. We dive into the creative process behind the book, exploring how their collaboration blossomed through weekly discussions that uncovered the layers of Russ's experiences.We also explore the fascinating interplay between creativity and risk, as Russ reflects on the adrenaline rush that came with his counterfeiting endeavors. Michael adds his insights on storytelling and the joy of bringing this unique narrative to life. Join us for an engaging discussion that highlights the complexities of identity, morality, and the artistic spirit.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Purchase Diamond Dust
• Book Signing October 4th in Utah

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m excited to welcome authors John F. Myslinksi & Michael McKinley to discuss their gripping new novel, Something Wicked. This thrilling tale delves into the complexities of faith, morality, and the inner workings of the Catholic Church, all while weaving a captivating narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

John shares his journey from a long-standing ministry in Washington D.C. to co-authoring this compelling work with Michael, who brings his extensive experience in storytelling to the table.

We discuss the creative process behind their partnership, the importance of authenticity in character development, and the exciting news of a film adaptation in the works. This episode is a deep dive into the art of storytelling and the profound impact of faith on personal and communal narratives.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Purchase Something Wicked
• Monsignor John's Website
• Michael's Website

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m thrilled to welcome author Kevin M. Kearney to discuss his thought-provoking novel, Freelance. Set against the backdrop of a dystopian gig economy, the story follows a young man's journey as he navigates the complexities of working for a rideshare app called HYPR in Philadelphia. Kevin shares the inspiration behind the book and how his personal experiences shaped the narrative, exploring themes of identity, the gig economy, and the psychological impact of technology on relationships.

We dive deep into the protagonist Simon's struggles, his interactions with a cam girl, and the disorienting nature of modern work. Kevin offers insights into his writing and editing process, revealing how he transformed initial sketches into a compelling narrative.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• PURCHASE Freelance
• Kevin's Website
• Kevin's Substack

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm excited to welcome back author and podcaster Ben Tanzer to discuss his latest book, After Hours: Scorsese, Grief, and the Grammar of Cinema. In this deeply personal work, Ben explores the intersection of cinema and personal loss, reflecting on his father’s influence and their shared love for film.

Ben shares insights into his writing process, the unique structure of the book that blends memoir, film criticism, and interviews, and how his familial relationships shaped his understanding of grief and creativity. We delve into the significance of Scorsese’s films in his life and how they serve as markers of pivotal moments in his journey.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Ben's Website
• Purchase After Hours

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m thrilled to welcome filmmaker Joe Hill to discuss his documentary Match In A Haystack. The film follows a group of contemporary dancers in Ukraine as they navigate the chaos and destruction brought on by the Russian invasion. Through their art, they explore themes of survival, resilience, and the profound connection between creativity and the human spirit.

Joe shares his insights on the filmmaking process, the emotional challenges faced by the dancers, and the universal questions of identity and purpose that arise in times of conflict. We dive deep into the unique storytelling approach that highlights the act of creation amidst destruction, capturing not just the struggles, but the beauty of human expression.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Official Website for Match in a Haystack
• IG: @dangerouscompany.media
• Film Trailer

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I'm excited to welcome author Lee Matthew Goldberg to discuss his latest young adult novel, Miles in Time. This captivating story follows 14-year-old Miles, who embarks on a thrilling journey to uncover the truth behind his brother's murder, aided by clues left behind and the possibility of time travel.

Lee shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of balancing multiple genres, and how his cinematic approach influences his storytelling. Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Lee's Website
• Purchase Miles in Time
• Follow Lee on Instagram

This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m thrilled to welcome author Kaila Yu to discuss her new book, Fetishized: A Reckoning with Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty, set to release on August 19th through Crown Publishing. This powerful collection of essays challenges societal perceptions of Asian women, delving into the complexities of fetishization, identity, and the impact of media narratives.

Kaila shares her journey of writing this memoir, revealing the surprising historical insights she uncovered along the way. We explore her reflections on popular culture, including a thought-provoking analysis of Disney’s The Little Mermaid and its implications on beauty standards and femininity.

Thanks for tuning in!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Kaila's Website
• Purchase Fetishized
• Follow Kaila on Instagram