Bear Pause: Kristyn Bridges Wyche ’08

Kristyn Bridges Wyche ’08 lives in Cincinnati with her husband, Ryan, and son, Royal. Although she enjoys Cincy, she still reps her hometown any chance she gets. When she’s not cozy at home, she loves visiting coffee shops, attending concerts and checking out local markets and stores. 

Q: Name five things that make you happy
A: Slow mornings, great food, listening to and talking about music, spending time with my favorite people and my son’s laugh

Q: What is your proudest achievement?
A: One of my proudest achievements was being the first in my family to graduate from college. That was no small feat.

Q: What did you want to be when you were small?
A: When I was a young kid, I wanted to be many things! I wanted to be a dancer, news anchor, chef, actress and author.

Q: Aside from necessities, what is one thing you could not go a day without?
A: I can’t leave the house without wearing my rings (one on each ring finger) and earrings—whether they’re studs or big hoops (my favorite). I feel off-center if I’m not wearing those pieces of jewelry.

Q: What piece of advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
A: It’s great to have more than one interest; keep pursuing them all. And trust your instincts. Ultimately, you know what’s best for you.

Q: What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
A: I've been able to see several of my top artists in concert. Two of my favorite concerts were Lupe Fiasco in Cincinnati (2016) and in Chicago (2024). I was super close to the stage for both shows. During the Cincinnati show, Lupe passed his Grammy award to the audience and I got to hold it. During his show in Chicago, he locked eyes with me as he spit the second verse of “Out of My Head.” *Swoon.* Both were amazing shows!

Q: What teacher inspired you the most? How?
A: I’ve had so many great teachers! But Mr. [Greg] Dawson crossed my mind recently, and I’d like to shout him out here. He believed in my ability as a writer and performer and challenged me in the most supportive ways. He was a big part in my speech, poetry and spoken word accomplishments during my senior year at Blake. Eighteen years later (I can't believe it's been that long), I’ve been reconnecting with my 18-year-old self through writing. I have great memories of being in his class and the speech team that year, as well as immersing myself in my senior project.

Q: If you are outside, what are you most likely doing?
A: Sipping coffee, watching the sunrise/sunset, listening to nature or music, reading, writing, walking, or watching my son ride his bike or toy car. I enjoy being outside, especially during late spring and fall.

Q: What’s your dream job?
A: I just want to make dope things with my friends and people I love! Write books, poetry, make music, create spaces and resources for people to thrive and anything else that feels good to pursue. I'd love for the things I create to help people in ways I could never have imagined. I consider that a profound gift.

Q: What day in your life would you like to relive?
A: The last day I spent with my dad. I would slow down and be more present with him. I would soak in every bit of those final moments. I’d hug him extra tight and tell him I love him several times more. I miss him every day.