Audrey Cruz & Rule 42
02/25/25 • 28 min
Walking the Path: Audrey Cruz's Story of Strength and Identity
We sat down with Audrey Cruz, a remarkable mom, podcast co-host of Rule 42, and an absolute force of nature. 💖 Audrey shared her deeply personal story of adoption, a journey of resilience, cultural exploration, and the beautiful, complex path to finding her identity.
Imagine learning your path was different than you thought... Audrey navigated this with grace and strength, and her insights are truly profound. We even explored the powerful poem "Caminante, son tus huellas" by Antonio Machado, reminding us that "the path is made by walking." 👣
We asked Audrey about the moment she learned about her adoption, how it shaped her motherhood, and the misconceptions she wishes people understood. Her answers? Heartfelt and eye-opening. 🤯
Creative Content: Caminante, son tus huellas by Antonio Machado.
Caminante, son tus huellas
el camino, y nada más;
caminante, no hay camino,
se hace camino al andar."
Translation:
"Traveler, your footprints
are the path, and nothing more;
traveler, there is no path,
the path is made by walking.
Walking the Path: Audrey Cruz's Story of Strength and Identity
We sat down with Audrey Cruz, a remarkable mom, podcast co-host of Rule 42, and an absolute force of nature. 💖 Audrey shared her deeply personal story of adoption, a journey of resilience, cultural exploration, and the beautiful, complex path to finding her identity.
Imagine learning your path was different than you thought... Audrey navigated this with grace and strength, and her insights are truly profound. We even explored the powerful poem "Caminante, son tus huellas" by Antonio Machado, reminding us that "the path is made by walking." 👣
We asked Audrey about the moment she learned about her adoption, how it shaped her motherhood, and the misconceptions she wishes people understood. Her answers? Heartfelt and eye-opening. 🤯
Creative Content: Caminante, son tus huellas by Antonio Machado.
Caminante, son tus huellas
el camino, y nada más;
caminante, no hay camino,
se hace camino al andar."
Translation:
"Traveler, your footprints
are the path, and nothing more;
traveler, there is no path,
the path is made by walking.
Previous Episode
Merri Biechler & Bruce Dalzell
This is an episode that beautifully intertwines music and storytelling, featuring two incredible guests: Bruce, an Appalachian singer-songwriter, and Merri Biechler, a powerhouse playwright and artistic director.
Meet Bruce: The Musical Maverick Bruce hails from the picturesque hills of Athens County, Ohio, where the traditional Appalachian culture meets the vibrant energy of a large university. Describing himself as a blend of hillbilly and crooner, Bruce’s journey through music has been shaped by the rich narratives of his upbringing. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment for fellow musicians shines through in his art. In this episode, Bruce performs his original song "Paper," inspired by Merri’s personal adoption story. The song dives deep into the emotional complexities of identity, grief, and the longing for connection. With lines that resonate with anyone who has grappled with their past, Bruce’s music serves as a powerful lens through which to explore these themes.
Introducing Merri: A Master of Storytelling Merri Biechler is not just a director; she is a storyteller at heart. As the Director of the School of Theater at Ohio University, her work has garnered critical acclaim, with plays that spark conversations about identity and human connection. Merri’s accolades include the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award, and her extensive experience as an actor adds another layer to her storytelling craft. During the episode, Merri reflects on her adoption journey and the weight of the “pile of paper” that represents her search for her biological family. This metaphor captures the emotional landscape of many adoptees, inviting listeners to engage with their own narratives of belonging.
A Creative Exchange of Ideas Throughout the episode, Anna facilitates a meaningful discussion between Bruce and Merri, exploring how their creative paths intersect. They delve into the complexities of memory, grief, and the powerful role that music plays in understanding one’s identity. Listeners will find themselves resonating with the heartfelt reflections and insights shared in this episode. It’s a reminder that creativity is not just about self-expression, but also about connecting with others and healing through shared experiences.
Listen Now! Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation. Tune in to hear Bruce’s performance and the profound discussion that follows. Whether you’re an artist, an adoptee, or simply someone seeking to understand the human experience, this episode will leave you inspired.
Merri Biechler https://www.ohio.edu/fine-arts/biechler https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0081291/
Bruce Dalzell Music https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sYDpj0RF3MAmHluwz8I0w
Next Episode
Paige O'Brien & Resilience Revealed
This episode features an intimate and compelling conversation with Paige O'Brien, a remarkable Ohio University student whose journey embodies resilience, creativity, and profound self-discovery. Paige, a gifted writer, shares her deeply personal adoption story, exploring the complexities of family, belonging, and the transformative power of the human spirit.
The program utilizes Mary Oliver's poem "Breakage" as a central theme, exploring the concept of finding beauty and strength within "brokenness." Through a thoughtful analysis of Oliver's work, we delve into the idea that life's seemingly insignificant details contribute to the "whole story," and that unexpected places can serve as profound "teachers."
Paige's responses to the poem and subsequent questions provide a raw and authentic look into her experiences. She discusses how her adoption story has shaped her understanding of family, how she has discovered "unexpected treasures" amidst complexity, and how her experiences have fueled her passion for writing.
The interview explores how challenges can ignite creativity and offer unique perspectives. Paige's insights on resilience and her advice for others navigating their own "breakage" are both inspiring and deeply moving. We examine how she uses writing as a tool to make sense of her life's intricate narrative.
This episode is not just a conversation; it's an experience. Paige's vulnerability and eloquence, combined with the powerful imagery of Mary Oliver's poetry, create a listening experience that resonates long after the program concludes. "Finding the Jingle" is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the healing power of art, and the enduring beauty of the human spirit.
Creative Content:
"Breakage" by Mary Oliver
Everything that was broken has
forgotten its brokenness. I live
now in a sky-house, through every
window the sun. Also your presence.
Our touching, our stories. Earthy
and holy both. How can this be, but
it is. Every day has something in it
whose name is Forever.
If you like this episode you’ll love
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