Speakers

  Ron Murphy has been investigating the stuff of nightmares for over 30 years. He has investigated the things that go bump in the night and meticulously researched the historical and psychological context of myths and legends from around the world. Mr. Murphy seeks to uncover the archetypal precedent for the monsters that haunt our collective thoughts. Mr. Murphy has been featured in the Travel Channel series True Terror with Robert Englund and has appeared in three seasons of Red Earth Uncovered in Canada. He has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows including Coast to Coast. A sought-after speaker, Mr. Murphy is honored to be appearing at this event for its second year, and is excited to discuss the deeper meaning of the Sqounk as it relates to the environment. 

   Barnaby Jones is a cryptozoologist, paranormal researcher, author, narrator, speaker, podcast host for "Monsters on the Edge" and "Whispers from the Dark", and founder/lead investigator of Wisconsin CAPS (Cryptids, Anomalies, and the Paranormal Society). His research and investigations into The Hyden Adventure's Bigfoot sightings in Northern Michigan have inspired the writing of Bigfoot is Hyden: The Incredible True Story of Strange Activities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula in collaboration with the land's owners, Barb and Craig Sulk, and an upcoming traveling exhibit set for release in June 2024. To find out more information about Barnaby and CAPS, please visit: www.wisconsincaps.com. To book Barnaby for events and presentations, please email booking_barnaby@wisconsincaps.com.

  Brandi Haile arrived in Portland by jet airplane in 2014, bidding adieu and au revoir to her rural western Kentucky hometown and the brighter lights of Nashville, Tennessee, where she made her mark and sharpened her star as a singer-songwriter. Many labels have been thrown at her. Folk. Indie. Avant-Americana. Female solo artist. Sometimes these apply, and sometimes they do not. She is not a creature beholden to definition. Equally adept behind a piano, funeral-parlor organ or six-stringed acoustic guitar, she is a good witch who casts spells of nostalgia, pain, love, loss, beauty and misery in equal measure. She released her latest album “Lubba Dubba Chugga Lugga” online in 2023 . It was co-produced by Steven Drizos and features talented musicians such as Jennifer Conlee of “The Decemberists”.  

RJ Walker is a performance poet, playwright and voice actor from Salt Lake City, Utah. At the Individual World Poetry Slam he placed 6th overall at the 2017 Individual world poetry slam. RJ won the NPS Spirit of the Slam award for organizing the first Compliment Deathmatch event. The next year he placed 4th at the National Poetry Slam with the Salt City Unified team. He is a winner of the button poetry video contest. He is the host and operator of The Greenhouse Effect Open Mic, SLC’s longest running open mic style event. RJ is a writer in residence at the Utah Arts Alliance and has written 5 plays that have been produced in Salt Lake City. 

Carelyn is a writer, spiritual teacher, mentor, and psychic reader who has made a name for herself in the metaphysical community. With her exceptional leadership skills and passion for education, she has been instrumental in empowering numerous communities over the years. Elle's impressive track record includes organizing community events, owning a metaphysical shop, and providing insightful readings for clients from all corners of the globe. She is the co-host of the Mancy podcast and the former Slam Master of Salt City Slam. 

Enan Whitby (he/they) is a trans-masculine person who writes too much about gender. He is in love with his cat Ham, procrastinating life while writing poetry, and crocheting. He is a stereotypical Capricorn. He has represented Westminster on the LOVELOUD stage, at CUPSI 2018 and 2019, and Salt Lake City in 2019 and 2022. He is the current vice-president of Salt City Slam.

 The Chaotic Cryptid is a drag performer that dresses up as various lovable Cryptids. Currently they dress up and perform MothMan and Loveland Frogman acts with the intention of causing confusion, chaos and a couple of good hearty laughs. They will have some homemade crafts for sale and props for taking pictures with the MothMan. They will also be doing some performances so be sure to bring a couple of ones to tip the MothMan. You can also catch them at the PA Myths & Legends Festival in May this year too. 

  The Black Magic Circus is a diverse troupe of entertainers on a mission to amaze and inspire audiences while showcasing and promoting unity. This will be their second year at Squonkapalooza and they are excited to be returning with a magic show by Dan Harmon-Entertainer and Squonk Hula Hooping Contest! https://www.facebook.com/blackmagiccircus