Salt Lake Dirt

Episode 303

Guest: Christopher Zeischegg

Book: The Magician

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In this episode of Salt Lake Dirt, Kyler welcomes author Christopher Zeischegg to discuss his novel The Magician, which has just been reissued in 2024. Christopher shares the intricate journey behind the book, revealing how it evolved from a multimedia project inspired by his past in the adult industry and the tumultuous relationships that shaped him.

Delving into themes of addiction, spirituality, and the complexities of human connection, Christopher reflects on the duality of his protagonist's life—caught between the allure of a dark romance and the search for redemption. The conversation explores the creative process of writing such a raw and personal narrative, and how it reflects his own struggles with identity and belief.

Thanks for listening!

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Episode Links:

• Purchase The Magician
• Christopher's Website

Episode 302

Guest: Kurt Baumeister

Novel: Twilight of the Gods

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In this episode Kyler welcomes author Kurt Baumeister to discuss his upcoming book, Twilight of the Gods, set to release on March 11th. Kurt shares the inspiration behind the novel, which offers a fresh take on Norse mythology through the eyes of Loki, challenging traditional perceptions of good and evil among the gods. The conversation delves into the book's unique structure, blending historical elements with contemporary themes, and explores the writing process that brought this ambitious project to life. Join us for an engaging discussion about mythology, creativity, and the human experience!---

Episodes:

• PURCHASE Twilight of the Gods
• Kurt's Website

Episode 302

Guest: Kurt Baumeister

Book: Twilight of the Gods

Episode 301

Guests: Yangzom Brauen & Katherine Leblond

Film: Mola: A Tibetan Tale of Love and Loss

Festival: South by Southwest Film Festival

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This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m thrilled to talk about the poignant documentary Mola: A Tibetan Tale of Love and Loss. Yangzom Brauen (filmmaker) and Katherine Leblond (producer) join me to share the heartfelt journey of creating a film that captures the life of a Tibetan nun and the deep bonds of family amidst the backdrop of cultural displacement.

Yangzom recounts how the project began as a personal endeavor to document her grandmother's life, leading to a profound exploration of identity, love, and loss. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of filming intimate family moments while navigating the complexities of documentary storytelling.

Katherine shares her passion for the project and the emotional connection she felt to the narrative, highlighting the universal themes of acceptance and the human experience that resonate throughout the film. Together, they reflect on the significance of their upcoming premiere at the prestigious South by Southwest Film Festival and the impact they hope the film will have on audiences.

This is a conversation filled with warmth, vulnerability, and inspiration. Don’t miss it!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Film Website
• Follow Mola on Instagram
• South by Southwest Film Festival

Episode 300

Guest: Amy DeBellis

Book: All Our Tomorrows

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This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I’m excited to welcome author Amy DeBellis to discuss her new novel All Our Tomorrows. Amy takes us on a journey through the lives of three distinct female characters, each grappling with their own struggles against the backdrop of a planet in crisis.

We delve into Amy's writing process, exploring how a chance comment on Reddit and a thought-provoking nonfiction book inspired her to create a narrative that intertwines personal stories with broader existential themes.

Amy shares her insights on the importance of empathy in storytelling and how she crafted distinct voices for each character, making them relatable even to readers from different backgrounds. We discuss the emotional weight of their journeys and the universal truths that resonate throughout the novel.

Great book, great chat! Thanks for listening.

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• AmyDeBellis.com
• Purchase All Our Tomorrows
• Support Greenlight Bookstore
• Follow Amy on Instagram

Episode 299

Guest: Erin Fogel

TV/Film: Running Erins, Coco and Eddie

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This week on Salt Lake Dirt, I sit down with filmmaker actor Erin Fogel, the creative mind behind the hilarious pilot Running Erins and the delightful web series Coco and Eddie. Erin shares the inspiring backstory of Running Erins, revealing how a chaotic production experience led her to create a project that blends her real-life experiences with the comedic essence of her community.

With a focus on authenticity, Erin discusses how she incorporated real friends and family into the narrative, creating a docu-comedy that resonates with viewers. We dive into the challenges of juggling multiple roles as both actor and producer, and how her boundless energy fuels her creative endeavors.

We also explore the genesis of Coco and Eddie, a modern homage to classic sitcoms like I Love Lucy, and how it brings a fresh, comedic perspective to love stories in New York City.

Great chat! Thanks for listening!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Watch Coco and Eddie
• IG: @erinblairfogel

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SLD Podcast Info:

• www.saltlakedirt.com
• Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos & 101.9FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
• Listen onSPOTIFY
• Listen onAPPLE Podcasts
• Instagram: @saltlakedirt
• Follow KPCR on Instagram

Episode 298

Guest: Nick Beaulieu

Film: My Omaha

Festival: 2025 Slamdance Film Festival

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This week on Salt Lake Dirt I speak with documentary filmmaker Nick Beaulieu. His film My Omaha will be screening at the 2025 Slamdance Film Festival. Nick shares the intricate journey of crafting this documentary over eight years, exploring the stark contrasts within Omaha's communities and the personal dynamics of his own family.

Nick reveals how his initial objective approach evolved into a deeply personal narrative, particularly highlighting the poignant conversations with his father, who plays a significant role in the film. Their candid discussions about differing viewpoints and the love that transcends those differences offer a rare glimpse into familial relationships amidst social complexities.

We also discuss the influence of legendary filmmaker Bill Jersey, whose work inspired Nick.

Great film, great chat! Thanks for listening.

Kyler

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Episode Links:

• Visit My Omaha Film Website
• Follow My Omaha on Instagram
• Follow Nick Beaulieu on Instagram
• Slamdance Film Festival

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SLD Podcast Info:

• www.saltlakedirt.com
• Radio Broadcast every Monday on KPCR 92.9 FM Los Gatos & 101.9FM Santa Cruz - 6PM - 8PM PST
• Listen on SPOTIFY
• Listen on APPLE Podcasts
• Instagram: @saltlakedirt
• Follow KPCR on Instagram

Episode 297

Author: Shannon Waite

Book: Raising Women

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This week on Salt Lake Dirt, we welcome author Shannon Waite to discuss her interactive novel Raising Women. Shannon shares the inspiration behind her unique storytelling approach that combines the classic choose-your-own-adventure format with literary fiction, allowing readers to navigate through 24 possible pathways and four distinct endings.

Shannon also reflects on her experiences as a teacher and writer, emphasizing the importance of routine and community in honing her craft. We explore the themes of empathy and perspective within her work.

Great book, great chat. Thanks for listening!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

SLD Podcast Info:

Episode 296

Guest: Chelsea Christer

Film: Out for Delivery

Festival: 2025 Sundance Film Festival

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Join us on Salt Lake Dirt as we kick off our 2025 Sundance Film Festival coverage with the talented filmmaker Chelsea Christer. Chelsea returns to the podcast to discuss her latest short film, Out for Delivery, which is set to premiere at Sundance this year. This dark comedy, inspired by true events, explores the mishaps and mayhem surrounding a woman’s end-of-life journey through the Death with Dignity law.

Chelsea shares the inspiration behind the film, revealing how a tragic real-life story transformed into a screenplay that balances humor with poignant societal commentary. We delve into the film’s rapid development, from script to screen, and the collaboration with actors like Deanna Rooney and Martin Starr, whose chemistry brings the story to life.

We also discuss Chelsea’s emotional journey from her virtual Slamdance debut during the pandemic to an in-person Sundance premiere. As a long-time volunteer at the festival, Chelsea reflects on the significance of this milestone and the unique perspective she brings to her Sundance experience.

Thanks for listening!

Kyler

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Episode Links:

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.

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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

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Episode Links: