How to find your voice as a leader | Michael Ruiz | TEDxBrewster Park ED
In this insightful talk, Michael Ruiz explores the traditional path to leadership and the powerful influence of both role models and ineffective leaders. He challenges the notion of simply following in others' footsteps, instead advocating for a leadership style rooted in personal beliefs and values.Drawing inspiration from Miles Davis’ quote, "Sometimes you have to play a long time to be able to play like yourself," Michael emphasizes the importance of developing an authentic leadership voice. He shares practical exercises to accelerate this process, helping leaders refine their approach while staying true to their core principles.Michael J Ruiz currently serves Houston ISD as the Senior Executive Director for Leadership and Strategic Initiatives (LSI). LSI is responsible for developing the capacity of every instructional leader in Houston ISD. In addition to this, LSI also oversees, strategic staffing initiatives as well as pipeline programs for future teachers, campus administrators and executive leaders. Michael brings 6 years of experience in technology sales and marketing and 15 years of in education to this role. During his 9 years as a dual-language teacher in Dallas ISD he was honored to be named the 2015 Dallas ISD Teacher of the Year. After serving as assistant principal and Woodrow Wilson High School and head of school for Geneva Heights IB World School, Michael was named Executive Director of STEM for Dallas ISD. He served in this role until June of 2023 where he left Dallas to move to Houston for his new role. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 9:02The Transformative Power of Travel: Life Lessons Beyond the Classroom | Simran Malhotra | TEDxPICTWhat does it truly mean to be a “traveler”? Is it just about visiting new places or collecting visa stamps? In this captivating talk, Simran Malhotra redefines the essence of solo travel, proving that it’s not just about the destinations but the people, experiences, and self-discovery along the way. She takes us on a journey filled with travel stories and hyper-local experiences which celebrate different cultures and human connections. Through her adventures across India, she shares how real learning happens outside the classroom. As a model, corporate analyst, influencer and solo-traveler, she highlights the importance of exploring life beyond the routine of 9-5 and embracing the 5-9 that truly defines us. Simran Malhotra, a Management Consulting Analyst at Accenture, digital creator, and solo traveler, is also a former Miss Asia India’18 and Queen of India’18. She is an advocate for physical well-being, balancing her career with her passion for travel and fitness, and as an ACE Certified Zumba® Trainer, she encourages staying active on her journeys.In her TEDx talk, Simran explores how travel teaches life lessons often overlooked by traditional education. Drawing from solo adventures and her beauty pageant journey, she discusses how travel fosters cultural understanding and human connection. She highlights microtravel-where even exploring your neighborhood can be transformative. Through stories of spontaneous encounters and meaningful connections, Simran challenges the idea that solo travel is isolating, showing how brief moments can reshape our perspectives and how we connect with others. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 10:43Reconnecting Body and Mind: The Magic Pill of Movement | Aishwarya Nigam | TEDxPICTIn this compelling TEDxPICT talk, Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Dr. Aishwarya Nigam shares a truth that we often forget in our busy lives, our bodies hold the key to our mental well-being. Drawing from her own struggle to balance intense studies with physical wellbeing, Dr. Nigam reveals how we’ve become dangerously disconnected from our bodies and the consequences this has on our mental health. She breaks down the science of stress hormones in everyday language, showing how even the simplest movements like standing up from your desk, taking a brief walk, or practicing gentle muscle relaxation can interrupt the cycle of anxiety and fatigue. She tells the story of helping a patient with schizophrenia who experienced remarkable relief through basic movement techniques without any medication. Her practical, down-to-earth approach reminds us that movement isn’t just about fitness, it’s essential medicine for our minds too. Movement truly is a magical pill for our minds, one that’s always available, costs nothing, and words wonders. Are you ready to take it? Aishwarya Nigam is a renowned physiotherapist, yoga instructor, and content creator, known for her expertise in integrating physical activity into daily life. Initially a full-time physiotherapist, she later gained recognition as a fitness influencer on Instagram, where she shares her journey of promoting holistic well-being.In her TEDx talk, Aishwarya will delve into the holistic benefits of physical activity, illustrating how movement—whether through yoga, exercise, or simple mindful practices—nourishes not only physical health but also enhances mental and emotional well-being. Drawing on insights from science, psychology, and social perspectives, she will highlight how regular movement can lead to transformative growth, promoting balance, strength, and resilience in both body and mind. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
