There is a line in the poem "Stage Gift" — written by Dr. Scott Minar for this special episode — that will have you return to over and over:

 "I see kindness radiates in a theater exponentially and the magic blooms in movement and voice."

That is the episode in a single breath.

We sit down with two remarkable Ohio University faculty members whose conversation illuminates the intersection of creative work, family, and what it truly means to belong.

Steven Strafford — Head of Musical Theater at OU, Brooklyn-born playwright, and author of the nationally acclaimed solo show Methtacular! — shares the story of how he and his husband became parents to their son Seely through foster-to-adopt. Steven speaks candidly about the complexity of open adoption, the unexpected gift of finding community in Appalachian Ohio, and how raising a child has deepened his life in the theater. 

Scott Minar — Professor Emeritus of English at Ohio University, internationally published poet, and performing musician — responds with "Stage Gift," a poem he composed for Steven and Seely after the two men connected in conversation. Scott's work has been celebrated by Joyce Carol Oates and former U.S. Poet Laureate Mark Strand, and his poem reminds us that art is one of the most enduring ways humans say: you are not alone.

This episode is for anyone who leads with curiosity. Anyone who has chosen their family. Anyone who believes that belonging is something we build together.

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