Desiree Tracie Cole

Brandon, FL
Actress, Singer & Dancer

Briefly describe your daily job duties.
I audition for musicals, plays, television, films, commercials, and voice overs.

As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job.
Feeling as though I am not getting an opportunities just because of the way I speak.

What are your long-term career aspirations?
I would like to become a motivational speaker for people who stutter, as well as a disability-rights advocate for people with disabilities and communication disorders. I want to motivate everyone and let them know that stuttering is a gift and you can be anything you want to be in this world!

Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process?
Yes! I tell people I have a stutter. I like to advocate for myself.

What is your proudest moment at your current company?
I was cast as Jane Banks (my first lead role ever!) in New Tampa Players/The Penguin Project’s production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins JR.

Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work.
I have more compassion and empathy towards others, and I believe that my stutter helps me to relate better to others that may stutter or other differing ability.

What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success?
Just keep going and never give up. Don’t listen to people who are bringing you down, but rather to those who are bringing you up!