Isaac Kestenbaum, director of the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies, celebrates Salt's 50th anniversary. They discuss the impact and success of Salt grads, the Pathways philosophy, and the origins of 'Salt' magazine. They also reflect on growing up with a sibling with autism and share updates on loved ones with autism.
Salt Institute for Documentary Studies has produced well-known alums in the field of radio, podcasting, and short filmmaking, showcasing its commitment to telling true stories about the lives of people in Maine.
Salt's approach of immersing students in the field and building trust with characters has allowed for authentic storytelling, exemplified by Marina Henke's story '14 Names' which chronicles a tragedy from the 1930s in Lubeck, Maine and reflects on the enduring impact and healing in a small town.
Deep dives
Salt's Evolution: From Journalism School to Podcasting and Filmmaking
Salt Institute for Documentary Studies started as a journalism school in Portland, Maine and published a glossy magazine featuring student work. Over the years, the curriculum shifted to focus on radio, podcasting, and short filmmaking. Despite financial troubles and changes in the media landscape, Salt remains committed to telling true stories about the lives of people in Maine. The radio program at Salt has produced well-known alums such as Phoebe Judge, Zoe Chase, and Greg Warner. Salt's approach of immersing students in the field and building trust with characters has allowed for authentic storytelling. Salt closed its doors in 2015 but was reopened by the Maine College of Art and Design in 2017. Salt celebrates its 50th anniversary with events, including a podcast launch and a showcase of work from current grads.
Storytelling through Immersion: The Pathways Program
The Pathways program, an alternative education program in rural Maine, offers a different approach to traditional schooling. Students in the program engage in project-based learning, dual enrollment college courses, and work credit to connect their education to real-life applications. For example, a story about Max, a 16-year-old lobsterman and high school student, highlights how his coursework reframes traditional subjects like math and science to provide practical value to his life. The program empowers students to find purpose and value in their education while addressing the limited career options in the region.
Remembering the Children of Lubeck: Documenting Tragedy
Salt's commitment to documenting people and culture is exemplified in Marina Henke's story, '14 Names,' which explores a tragedy from the 1930s in Lubeck, Maine. The story chronicles the events that resulted in the deaths of 14 children in boating accidents. The piece reflects on the enduring impact of the tragedy and the process of healing in a small town. It demonstrates how Salt captures significant historical moments and the quiet resilience of communities. Through their stories, Salt reminds us of the importance of remembering and documenting the lives and experiences of often overlooked individuals.
Salt's Legacy: 50 Years of Evolving Storytelling
Salt Institute for Documentary Studies has evolved over its 50-year history. Starting with writing and photography, Salt has embraced new mediums like radio, podcasting, and filmmaking. The school has adapted to changes in technology and the media landscape, teaching students the necessary tech skills while emphasizing ethics in storytelling. Salt's focus on immersing students in their communities and building trust with their subjects has remained a consistent aspect of their approach. As the school celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to produce impactful stories that highlight the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals in Maine.
What do radio producers Phoebe Judge (Criminal), Zoe Chase (This American Life), Greg Warner (Rough Translation), Matt Kielty (Radiolab), Emily Kwong (NPR) and dozens if not hundreds of others you've heard on your favorite podcasts and radio shows have in common? Salt. They're all graduates of the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies in Portland, Maine. Salt turns fifty this year! Isaac Kestenbaum, the director of the program, joins Rob to celebrate the occasion and talk about what makes the Salt experience so unique.
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