Episode 9: Letter to Che, Part OneEpisode 9: Letter to Che, Part One
Native As I Can Be
Geno Ray shares a heartfelt letter to his son Che, reflecting on his life journey through military service, personal loss, and battles with alcoholism.
43:21•9 Nov 2025
Geno Ray's Journey: A Heartfelt Letter to Che
Episode Overview
- Geno Ray shares a personal letter to his son Che.
- Explores cultural identity and belonging as a mixed-race individual.
- Reflects on life experiences including military service and acting aspirations.
- Discusses the impact of alcoholism on his life.
- Highlights the importance of storytelling in healing.
“"This is the story of how every twist and turn — the Army, the acting dream in L.A., the loss of my son Bams, alcoholism — shaped who I am."”
What can we learn from those who have battled addiction? In Episode 9 of "Native As I Can Be," Geno Ray takes a deeply personal journey through his past, addressing a heartfelt letter to his son, Che. This episode isn't just a narrative; it's a raw and honest reflection on Geno's life, marked by his experiences in the Army, the dreams he chased in L.A., and the profound impact of losing his son, Bams.
With candid anecdotes about growing up in a predominantly white town and the cultural dissonance he felt, Geno paints a vivid picture of identity and belonging. He shares stories of resilience and the battles with alcoholism that shaped his life, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the challenges faced by many. As Geno speaks directly to Che, listeners are drawn into an intimate conversation that spans generations, touching on themes of family, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of understanding oneself.
With moments of humour and vulnerability, this episode is a testament to the power of storytelling in healing and connection. So, what stories from your past would you share if given the chance?

Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.
