In this episode of the Slow Dive Podcast, host Farida Rafique engages with filmmaker and author Ayser Salman, exploring her journey from Iraq to America, her experiences growing up in Kentucky, and her insights on storytelling and representation.

Ayser discusses her book, 'The Wrong End of the Table,' which dives into the complexities of her identity as a Muslim woman and immigrant in America.

The conversation highlights the importance of authentic narratives beyond trauma, emphasizing the need for diverse and joyful stories in the cultural landscape. In this engaging conversation, Ayser Salman shares insights about misconceptions surrounding Iraqis, the cultural contrasts between Kentucky and California, and the creative process behind editing and storytelling.

She discusses her current projects, including the short film 'My So-Called Iraqi Wedding,' which highlights Iraqi culture and wedding rituals.

Ayser reflects on the importance of community, the joy and chaos of cultural events, and her aspirations for future creative endeavors, including writing and documentary filmmaking.

https://www.aysersalman.com/

GUEST:

Ayser Salman is a filmmaker and author primarily focusing on projects that shed light on underrepresented communities. As an editor, her work in docu-series is Clio and Emmy winning. Born in Iraq and growing up in Kentucky with a brief stint in Saudi Arabia, Ayser constantly felt like a fish out of water. This nomadic childhood shaped her interest in storytelling. After graduating from the University of Kentucky School of Journalism, Ayser worked as a local news producer before coming to Los Angeles for film school. Since then, she’s been a story producer/editor for studios such as Miramax Films, Disney, Universal Pictures, The Weinstein Company, Netflix, and FX. Ayser also teaches writing classes and workshops to help new writers find their authentic voices so that they too, can tell the story most true to themselves.