Christie Hensler

Christie Hensler is a master of conquering life's challenges and using the wisdom gained from her own journey to inspire others through speaking, writing, and coaching. With 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Christie thrives on paving her own path and making a difference in the world.

She believes that embracing adversity is the key to unlocking one's true potential and becoming a better self. As the author of 'Life Hacks for Hard Times,' Christie equips individuals with tools to break free from what's holding them back and get the most out of life. A Maxwell certified coach and certified DISC behavioral consultant, Christie is dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.

Married to her best friend and business partner, Matt, for nearly 19 years, their unexpected journey is one full of resilience, determination and pure grit. Captivating and engaging, Christie brings audiences to their feet as a motivational speaker and workshop facilitator who connects with people on a deeply personal level, speaking WITH them rather than AT them.

Workshop Description:

Supercharge Your Relational and Emotional IQ: Maximize Influence, Tackle Adversity and Build Trust

Speaking at: Perrysburg, OH, and La Crosse, WI, Conferences

Rudy Ruiz

MBA, EFO, CFO

Retired Fire Chief Rudy Ruiz began his fire service career in 1991 as a full-time firefighter in Sandusky, Ohio. He moved to Michigan in 2014 to become the Fire Chief at Bedford Township, Michigan, for approximately two years, then became the fire chief in Perrysburg, Ohio.

Chief Ruiz is a proud Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) alum and member of the “First Class” in 2013. He earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree specializing in public administration, completed the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO) in 2011, and was Designated through the Center for Public Safety Excellence as a Chief Fire Officer (CFO).

Chief Ruiz's leadership roles within the fire service community are a testament to his capabilities. He served as Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ (IAFC) Professional Development Committee and is the current co-lead of the IAFC Diversity Executive Leadership Program. His expertise has been recognized on a national level, as he has been a guest speaker at several conferences on fire service wicked issues and leadership development training.

Workshop Description:

Harnessing the Power of AI to Optimize Fire Service Administration

This discussion delves into AI in the workplace, exploring its specific applications for administrative tasks, drawing on real-world case studies, discussing implementation strategies, and offering a visionary glimpse into the future of AI in fire service administration. The session aims to deliver a comprehensive and engaging experience, fostering interactive discussions and valuable Q&A sessions.

Speaking at: Perrysburg, OH, and La Crosse, WI, Conferences

Jonathan Downes

Jonathan Downes is an accomplished labor and employment law attorney with extensive experience in Ohio. He has over 30 years of practice, during which he has negotiated over 500 labor agreements and presented in over 100 impasse proceedings and 100 arbitrations. He represents various public sector entities like cities, townships, counties, school districts, and private employers in employment matters. Downes has argued cases before the Ohio Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

Downes is highly regarded in his field, holding an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and being a Fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. He has been recognized as one of the "Best Lawyers in America – Employment and Labor Law" since 2010, an "Ohio Super Lawyer" since 2004, and a "Central Ohio Top Lawyer" since 2009. He is also certified by the Ohio State Bar Association as a Specialist in Labor and Employment Law.

In addition to his legal practice, Downes is actively involved in lecturing, authoring publications, and serving in various professional and community organizations. He has authored "Civil Service Law in Ohio" and edits the "Ohio Civil Service and Collective Bargaining Laws and Rules Annotated" publication. Downes has served on the Civil Service Review Commission for the State of Ohio and has held leadership positions in organizations like the Ohio Management Lawyers Association and the Ohio Public Employers Labor Relations Association.

Workshop Topic:

Expert Advice on Labor Management for Fire Departments 

Speaking at: Perrysburg, OH, Conference

Dr. Humaira Lateef

MD, FAAFP, CCMS

Dr. Lateef is a board-certified Family Medicine physician, a Fellow of American Academy of Family Medicine, with a certification in culinary Medicine. She has been practicing in Toledo area for last 18 years.

Her approach to health is lifestyle-driven with a focus on supporting the individual, family and community.

Dr. Lateef is an advocate of the food as medicine approach, which reaffirms the fact that access to nutritious food is critical to health and well-being”

Workshop Description:

What is Culinary Medicine?

Speaking at: Perrysburg, OH, Conference

Aaron Lipski 

Milwaukee Fire Chief

Fire Chief Aaron Lipski leads the Milwaukee Fire Department, bringing a rich background to his role. A fourth-generation firefighter, Lipski joined MFD in 1997 and ascended through every rank. His educational foundation includes Communications and Public Administration degrees, equipping him for leadership and public engagement.

Lipski's career spans diverse roles within the department, from managing Construction and Maintenance to overseeing the Support Bureau. This varied experience has honed his adaptability and comprehensive understanding of fire service operations.
Beyond his local duties, Lipski trains fire departments nationwide and has served as a fire instructor at Waukesha County Technical College. He's also completed the Fire Service Executive Development Institute program, underlining his commitment to leadership growth.

Lipski's influence extends into the community through his involvement with organizations like the American Lung Association and RISE—Drug-Free MKE. He holds key positions in professional associations, serving as President of the Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association and Vice President of the Milwaukee County Fire Chiefs Association.

These experiences have shaped Lipski into a well-rounded leader with strong communication skills, strategic thinking abilities that inspire confidence, and a dedication to public service.

Workshop Topic:

Strength Through Shared Crisis – Sworn Management & Civilian Administrative Assistants

Speaking at: La Crosse, WI, Conference

Date/Time: Wednesday, September 25th 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Thomas Thibodeau

Distinguished Professor of Servant Leadership

Thibodeau is a husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and an active community member from Wisconsin Rapids who has done nothing since coming to Viterbo in 1984 but inspire students and change the world.

Through the years his infectious enthusiasm, compassion, and commitment to leadership and service have also inspired countless colleagues and community members. He is the founder of the Master of Arts in Servant Leadership, the first master’s degree of its kind in the nation, and also a founding member of hospitality and fellowship resource Place of Grace, in La Crosse.

Thibodeau is a popular professor, talented public speaker, and an extremely active community member who lives the Viterbo values. He regularly leads The Ethical Life seminars, often team teaching with Rick Kyte, and also offers a Serving the Common Good seminar focused on homelessness.

Workshop Description:

 Be the Best You

Speaking at: La Crosse, WI, Conference

Date/Time: Wednesday, September 25th 3:30 – 4:30 PM

Traci Tauferner, 

LAT, ATC, CSCS, PES, MCTP

Strategic provider of advanced conditioning, testing, and rehabilitation services to tactical units, industry, and municipalities.

Specialized training and extensive experience working with law enforcement, paramedics/EMT, firefighters, SWAT, and the military.

Skilled in trauma-informed weightlifting, peer support, crisis intervention, mental health first aid, and wellness.

Workshop Topic:

Workstation Wellness: Reducing Trigger Points and Improving Ergonomics

Speaking at: La Crosse, WI, Conference

Date/Time: Tuesday, September 24th 2:30 - 3:30 PM