Who Killed John Wayne? Cancer Crime Stories: The Downwinders
In this second edition of Cancer Crime Stories, we explore the disturbing and often overlooked history of Downwinders — communities across the United States profoundly impacted by decades of nuclear testing.
Through conversations with filmmaker Mark Shapiro and passionate advocate Mary Dickson, we unravel harrowing stories of individuals whose lives were forever altered by radioactive fallout. We’ll learn about the secretive and dangerous nature of nuclear tests, the severe health effects on unsuspecting individuals, and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.
Join our discussion about this somber chapter of history and its significant impact on countless lives.
In this episode
[00:56] Introduction to the concept of Downwinders and the origin of the term.
[07:33] Mary Dickson answers why it was necessary to detonate 928 nuclear bombs in the country.
[11:00] How long does this dangerous nuclear fallout persist in our environment?
[11:31] Mark Shapiro on the selection of Nevada as a primary testing site and the devastating health impacts on nearby communities, including increased cancer rates and other illnesses.
[17:08] Mary discusses the Cold War and nuclear bombs, highlighting that the U.S. is the only country that has ever dropped nuclear bombs on itself.
[19:17] Mary talks about atomic veterans — over 200,000 service members who were forced to witness nuclear tests.
[24:11] Mark shares a poignant story about a receptionist who worked daily at a nuclear site and how this exposure led to serious health issues for her entire family.
[33:33] Kodak film and its connection to nuclear fallout.
[35:25] The story of the 1952 film The Conqueror and its tragic aftermath, including the high incidence of cancer among its cast and crew.
About Mary Dickson
Mary Dickson is a retired KUED TV creative director and the former host of Contact with Mary Dickson on PBS Utah. An award-winning writer and playwright, she is known for her acclaimed play Exposed, which premiered in 2007 at Plan B Theatre and was named the Number One Drama of the year by the Deseret Morning News. Her work has garnered numerous awards, including a Rocky Mountain Regional Emmy and honors from the New York Film Festival, PBS, and the Society of Professional Journalists.
Mary is also a distinguished advocate for survivors of nuclear weapon testing, recognized by the Alliance for Nuclear Responsibility for her advocacy on behalf of downwinders. With over 30 years dedicated to peace and social justice, she was named Wasatch Woman of the Year in Community in 2008 and received a 2014 Utah Women’s Leadership Award from Sundance. Since 2009, Mary has served as a host mom for Middle Eastern students studying in the United States.
About Mark Shapiro
Mark Shapiro is a prominent figure in entertainment and film. He is recognized for his work on Downwind (2023), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), and ParaNorman (2012). Mark led Entertainment Brand Management at LAIKA from 2007 to 2019, overseeing marketing for the studio’s five Oscar-nominated features: Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Missing Link.
Prior to his role at LAIKA, he managed various categories for Nike USA Communications, including Nike Community Affairs, Nike Basketball, and Nike Tennis. He has also served as a Mentor in Publicity and Marketing for SXSW Film. Mark is on the Klamath Film Board of Directors and curates film programming at festivals globally. Originally from Seattle, he attended Emerson College and Colorado College and completed post-graduate studies at Lewis & Clark College.
Connect with Mark Shapiro
Butcher Box
Years ago, I had no clue what I was doing in the kitchen. I asked my chef friend, Gina, “How do you make chicken taste better?” She told me, “Boneless, skinless, tasteless.” She explained that cooking with the bone adds flavor, moisture, and even a nutrient boost.
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The Body Deli
Here are my favorite products that are always in my bathroom:
Creme de la Rose moisturizer.
Phoenix lift face and neck oil (when I run out of this, my face gets so dry and cranky!)
Blueberry Fusion Cleanser.
Vitamin C Serum.
Body Deli: Use the code ‘ENOS15’ at checkout for 15% off!
Martinelli’s Sparkling Apple Cider
Let me tell you about my favorite mocktail: Martinelli’s sparkling apple cider. It’s a fantastic substitute for champagne and perfect for summer drinks.
After my breast cancer diagnosis, I became more mindful of what I consume. A 2016 study from the University of Houston revealed that alcohol can fuel estrogen, promoting breast cancer growth. According to breastcancer.org, just three drinks a week can increase breast cancer risk by 15%.
Now, I save alcohol for special occasions and turn to Martinelli’s Apple Cider instead. It’s non-alcoholic, tastes great, and makes me feel festive. I love dressing it up with cranberry or pomegranate juice in a champagne glass for that extra touch.
You can find Martinelli’s Apple Cider everywhere, but I usually grab mine from Costco for a great deal. Enjoy your summer and sip on some delightful mocktails!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and none of the information should be construed as medical advice. Listeners should seek guidance from their own medical team before making any medical or lifestyle changes.
