Traci Shannon - Speaker & Media Kit
Traci Shannon
Speaker | Author | Podcaster
Finding Beauty in the Ordinary
#SHINEBRIGHTLY
Biography
One-Line Bio
Traci Shannon helps people discover their unique brilliance through authentic storytelling, practical wisdom, and the belief that small positive changes create powerful ripples in the world.
Short Bio (100 words)
Traci Shannon is a speaker, podcaster, and writer who champions authenticity over perfection. After dreaming of Broadway stardom and experiencing the disappointment when those dreams didn't materialize, Traci discovered her true calling: helping others recognize they're already the stars of their own lives. For over 16 years, she has shared her journey through her blog "A Star in My Universe" and her podcast "the pebble," inspiring thousands to embrace their imperfect, beautiful lives. As a military spouse and mother preparing for an empty nest, Traci speaks from lived experience about finding purpose, resilience, and joy in everyday moments.
Full Bio (200 words)
Traci Shannon is a speaker, award-winning writer, podcaster, and advocate for authentic living. Growing up, she dreamed of starring on Broadway or in Hollywood, but when success as an actress didn't materialize, she found herself at a loss for purpose—despite being surrounded by blessings, including a loving husband, two amazing children, and countless supportive people in her life.
Sixteen years ago, Traci began her journey of self-discovery with her blog "38 and Growing." Through time, reflection, prayer, and wisdom from those she loves, she came to a powerful realization: her life was exactly where she was meant to star, and you only get one take. She transformed her platform into "A Star in My Universe," dedicated to shining a light on the beauty found in everyday life.
Today, as a wife to a disabled veteran and mother preparing for the empty nest stage, Traci continues her mission through her podcast "the pebble" and speaking engagements. Her signature STAR method helps individuals see, embrace, and restore themselves to their own starring roles. She believes that if we all threw a pebble of positivity into the sea, we could turn the tide of negativity. With warmth, humor, and unflinching honesty, Traci inspires audiences to #shinebrightly in a world built on fame and façade.
Speaking Topics
What happens when your dreams don't come true? Traci shares her personal journey from aspiring actress to discovering that her real life was the stage she was meant to shine on. This inspiring talk helps audiences understand that success isn't always what we planned—it's recognizing the beauty in the life we're actually living. Perfect for anyone feeling lost, stuck, or like they've failed to achieve their "big dreams."
Key Takeaways: Redefine success by reimagining dreams, find purpose beyond original plans, embrace your authentic path
You don't need to make massive life overhauls to create meaningful change. Based on her popular podcast, Traci demonstrates how small, consistent actions—pebbles of positivity—can transform your life and impact those around you. This practical, actionable talk gives audiences specific strategies to implement immediately for personal growth and collective impact.
Key Takeaways: The power of incremental change, building sustainable habits, create community impact
In a society built on fame, filters, and façade, how do we embrace our authentic selves? Traci delivers a refreshing message about the power of imperfection, vulnerability, and real connection. This talk resonates deeply with audiences tired of pretending to have it all together and ready to embrace their perfectly imperfect lives.
Key Takeaways: Embrace imperfection, vulnerability as strength, build genuine relationships
As children prepare to leave home, many parents face an identity crisis. Who am I beyond "mom" or "dad"? Drawing from her own experience as a soon-to-be empty nester, Traci provides hope, practical strategies, and permission to grieve while also celebrating this new chapter. This heartfelt talk helps parents navigate this significant life transition with grace and excitement.
Key Takeaways: Navigating identity shifts, reclaiming personal dreams, building a new normal
Traci's signature framework helps individuals reclaim their lives and step into their starring role. Through practical exercises and powerful storytelling, audiences learn to see their unique gifts, transform limiting beliefs, activate their purpose, and restore themselves to wholeness. This transformative session leaves participants with actionable tools and renewed confidence.
Key Takeaways: Self-awareness, overcoming limiting beliefs, purpose activation, personal restoration
As the wife of a disabled veteran, Traci offers unique insights into the challenges and triumphs of military family life. This compassionate talk addresses the realities of supporting a wounded warrior, maintaining your own mental health, and finding moments of joy amid difficulty. Essential for military communities, healthcare providers, and support organizations.
Key Takeaways: Caregiver resilience, supporting without losing yourself, finding community
The STAR Method
Traci's proprietary STAR Method helps individuals step into the starring role of their own lives:
- SEE: Recognize your unique gifts, talents, and the beauty already present in your life
- TRANSFORM: Shift limiting beliefs and perspectives that keep you from shining
- ACTIVATE: Take intentional action toward your purpose and goals
- RESTORE: Reclaim your wholeness and embrace your authentic self
Through this framework, Traci guides audiences from feeling lost or invisible to recognizing they are—and always have been—the star of their own story.
Podcast: "the pebble"
Platform: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Format: Solo episodes, interviews, and Monday motivations
Focus: Small positive changes that create big impact
Audience: People seeking authentic inspiration and practical life advice
Blog: A Star in My Universe
Website: astarinmyuniverse.com
Est.: 2008 (originally "38 and Growing")
Content: Personal essays, reviews, lifestyle, mental health, inspiration
Voice: Honest, warm, relatable, hopeful
Media Kit
Download the complete media kit including high-resolution photos, detailed bio, speaking sheet, and brand guidelines.
Download Media Kit (PDF)Includes: Professional headshots, logo files, bio variations, speaking topics, testimonials, and contact information
What People Are Saying
Photos & Brand Assets
High-resolution headshots, event photos, podcast cover art, and logo files are available in the downloadable media kit above. For specific requests or additional assets, please contact us using the information below.
Photo Usage Guidelines
Please use unaltered photos with proper credit: "Photo courtesy of Traci Shannon" or "Photo: Traci Shannon." For interviews, podcasts, or articles, feel free to screenshot from published content with appropriate attribution.
Interview Availability
Traci is available for:
- Podcast guest appearances
- Media interviews (print, radio, television, digital)
- Speaking engagements (keynotes, workshops, panels)
- Blog features and collaborative content
- Virtual and in-person events
Media & Speaking Inquiries
Email: media@astarinmyuniverse.com
Location: Buffalo, New York
Available for: Travel nationally, virtual appearances worldwide
Response time: Typically within 24-48 hours for media inquiries