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Unpolished Stories: Speaking Beyond the Spotlight
Virtual Speakers Association International is proud to present the inaugural podcast Unpolished Stories: Speaking Beyond the Spotlight. This series explores the professional speaker’s life beyond audiences and the stage to uncover the stories we learn from. Each episode will include hosts Chantelle Both of Southern Africa and Celina Peerman of the United States and feature a renowned guest speaker who shares their stories and lessons learned. From minor hiccups to major surprises, learn how to connect with your audience and turn obstacles into opportunities!
Visit https://vsainternational.org/ for more information and membership.
Unpolished Stories: Speaking Beyond the Spotlight
Episode 4: High Stakes Leadership with Traci Ruiz
In this inspiring episode, hosts Chantelle Botha and Celina Peerman talk with Traci Ruiz, a high-stakes leadership expert and one of the highest-ranking Latina police officers in the United States. With over 25 years in law enforcement and nearly two decades training officers in combat and de-escalation, Traci shares powerful stories of resilience, hope, and transformation. From her journey growing up in a tight-knit Mexican-American household to breaking barriers as a woman of color in law enforcement, Traci reveals the experiences that shaped her into a leader, speaker, and advocate.
Discover how Traci uses her platform to empower others to make better decisions under pressure, create safe spaces, and champion the voiceless. She discusses the critical importance of psychological safety, the challenges of navigating bias and adversity, and her ongoing mission to serve others through her work on stage and in the community.