Ep 45 - Maryann Lesert

State of Water

We’re thrilled to welcome author, activist, playwright, and teacher, Maryann Lesert, to State of Water. (3:30) Maryann shares about the inspiration behind her new novel, Land Marks, which will be published on April 16. All pre-order sales go to support Title Track and our Water Protector’s Training Camp program! (7:27) Land Marks is the culmination of more than 2 years of research where Maryann visited all of the fracking sites across Michigan and reflects the powerful personal stories and sensory experiences of those who live near frac well sites and (12:25) the possibilities that emerge when creative locals and committed activists join efforts. (20:10) Maryann and State of Water host, Seth Bernard, reflect on the importance of storytelling in creating meaningful cultural change. (25:00) Maryann talks about her writing process and how her experience as a playwright and a teacher inform her fiction writing, creating characters that embody the heaviness and grief present for many in this moment while retaining a spirit of hope and determination to work for positive change. (33:10) Seth and Maryann discuss the importance of nurturing intergenerational community; (36:55) the essential role that artists, writers, musicians, and creative practitioners play;and (41:30) how meaningful it is for each of us to find our unique voice and do our part for the sake of the common good. (44:35) Maryann shares about her previous novel, Base 10, which is also based in Michigan and (47:20) discusses the current threat of fracking in Michigan. Order Maryann Lesert's new novel, “Land Marks” at: https://bookshop.org/shop/maryannlesert. /// EPISODE 45 / Maryann Lesert interviewed by Seth Bernard / Produced, edited and mixed by Dan Rickabus and Chris Good / Narrators - Alex Smith, Ben Darcie, Dan Rickabus, Jenny Jones, Angela Gallegos, Rachel Marco-Havens / Graphic by Chris Good / Theme Music - Mike Savina, Seth Bernard & Dan Rickabus / Featured Music - “Homestretch” by Ecotone; “Authors (instrumental demo)" by Dan Rickabus; and “Let Love Land” by Max Lockwood