Story & Lesson Highlights with Anthony Ruptak of Denver, CO.

Anthony Ruptak shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Anthony, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Photography! I’ve always loved taking photos- mostly with my phone. But recently I’ve upgraded to a real camera and I’ve been absolutely addicted to shooting photos. It feels so refreshing to have a different creative outlet separate from music. I plan to start making wilderness/hiking videos and composing instrumental music to accompany them.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Anthony Ruptak. I’ve been a member of the Denver music scene for the past 15+ years and have written and recorded several full-length albums and EPs. When COVID hit and shut down the performing arts scene, I, like so many others, was forced to pivot. I decided to try my hand at the emergency medical services. I went to school and got my EMT, worked on the ambulance for a couple years, then went for my Paramedic. I’ve put in almost 3 years as a Paramedic in downtown Denver and have pulled inspiration from many of my experiences on the ambulance as ammunition for songwriting. I’m very excited to release a new record soon- entitled “Tourist”, sharing these stories of the human condition.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Unquestionably, my relationship with my wife. From day one, she loved me and accepted me for all my flaws and scars. She held me up through many dark years of alcohol abuse and self-destruction and never gave up on me. She has always been my biggest support as a musician, a paramedic, and and damaged human being. She taught me how to love myself and how to give myself grace. We have been together almost 13 years, and I’m grateful for each moment.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d try to kindly remind myself that life, with its deep, twisting valleys and ragged peaks, is worth remembering. Be kind to yourself. Take care of your body and your mind. Also, start reading more.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think that the advent and rapid evolution of AI is a horrifying, deadly thing. It’s a disaster for our planet, a planet that has already been mined, logged, and abused beyond all former recognition. It’s a disaster for our ability to communicate with one another. It destroys creativity. It’s a disaster for artists, musicians, poets. It’s a disaster for the natural world.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in the woods. When we take time to congregate with nature, to listen to her and learn from her, we connect with our purest selves. To be silent amongst the birds, the insects, the animals, the plants and trees and rivers and lakes and oceans, they harbor all innocence and wisdom. The indigenous peoples of this land understood and cherished this.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://anthonyruptak.com/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyruptak/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ruptakmusic

Image Credits
Nikki Rae, Kenzie Everitt, George Blosser, Angela Bakas, _mackphoto