Episode 3 - Area 62: Scrappers, Range Runners, and Unsolved Mojave Murders - Area 62 Interviews Desert Journalist and Filmmaker, Michael DiGregorio
- Jan 31
- 1 min read
Updated: Feb 7
September 24, 2024
Area 62’s JRod and Nayeli from Copper Mountain College in Joshua Tree, interview desert journalist and filmmaker, Michael DiGregorio and talk about his experience reporting on the scrapper and range runner community down near Niland on the Salton Sea, as well as his journalistic background, his start with Larry Flynt and Hustler, and his latest project on unsolved murders of the Mojave Desert. Music for part one of this episode of Area 62 is from Matt Ellis.
What We Discuss:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:02:03 - can you share your background in journalism and any cool projects you’re working on?
00:03:11 - What inspired you to make a documentary about meth addicts and scrapping metal in the low desert?
00:04:31 - Can you explain more about the Chocolate Mountains and why they fascinated you?
00:06:15 - What’s the difference between your two films, “Scrapper” and “Of Bombs and Men”?
00:10:12 - How did it feel to be in such a dangerous environment during your investigations?
00:11:22 - Can you describe life in Nyland and Slab City?
00:12:34 - Did you feel any guilt regarding the stories you covered?
00:19:25 - What do you hope to achieve with your journalistic work in the desert?
00:29:13 - What can civilians do to help with the issues faced by the communities in the desert?
00:37:54 - What have you learned about the unsolved murders in the area?
00:50:14 - What is your biggest takeaway from your career in journalism?
Episode Resources:
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