Roberto Torres: The Humble Leader

Roberto Torres stands tall in the community and not just because he wears cowboy boots and a ten-gallon hat. This humble campesino child learned to fight for his dignity in Anglo schools. He went on to become an avid reader, U.S. Marine, and community organizer. Through the great recession of 2007, he led economic development activities in northern Ohio until being selected executive director of the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan. The two proudest possessions in his office? A pickle hamper and a construction helmet. Find out why in this inspiring interview with Roberto Torres.

Alan Headbloom

Alan advises Americans how to be global citizens and expats how to fit in to Michigan culture without annoying their native coworkers and clients. He also tweets and blogs at the intersection of language and culture. Over decades, he's traveled, studied, or lived on six continents, putting strange foods into his mouth and emitting strange sounds from it. His use of English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Swedish, Hausa, and Japanese all improve with alcohol use. He gives invited public presentations on culture and unsolicited private advice on English grammar and usage; the latter isn't always appreciated. Visit his website for information on consulting, coaching, or speaking engagements.