The Toastmasters Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Centrella, a life coach and author focused on mental fitness, shares invaluable insights for speakers. She discusses the importance of mental training, using sports metaphors to develop daily practices. Sarah introduces 'mental tennis' to combat negative thoughts and emphasizes the power of positive 'I am' statements to reshape identity. With tips on visualizing success and creating personal power mottos, she equips listeners with practical tools to enhance their speaking confidence and mindset.

[33:33] What if AI could help you think more clearly, simplify complex ideas, and sharpen your message—without replacing your voice or creativity? In this episode of the Toastmasters Podcast, Greg Gazin welcomes back Diane Windingland, DTM, for a practical conversation on using AI as a thinking partner to improve clarity, strengthen messages, and communicate with greater impact.

[27:20] In this episode Greg Gazin welcomes back longtime contributor and speech delivery coach Bill Brown for a conversation that reflects back and shares lessons learned from more than a decade of writing for the Toastmaster magazine. A Toastmaster for nearly 20 years Bill has become a familiar name to readers through The Toastmasters Toolbox, The Answer Man, and dozens of feature articles written since 2014.

[31:36] What does it take to build a thriving Corporate Toastmasters club within a business—and turn it into a catalyst for professional growth and company culture? In this episode, Greg Gazin chats with Lance Kotler, a Vice President at BNY Mellon and Vice President of Membership for the BNY Mellon Toastmasters Club in New York City.

[36:05] On the Toastmasters Podcast, it’s our annual tradition—and a true pleasure— for us to speak with the newest World Champion of Public Speaking. This year, we’re thrilled to feature Sabyasachi “Saby” Sengupta, who captured the 2025 title this past August at the Toastmasters International Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with his speech titled “Just Nod.”

[29:47] What if success wasn’t just about working harder‚Äîbut about working from your "Zone of Genius?" In this episode, Greg Gazin chats with Katie Stoddart, founder and CEO of The Focus Bee, about how to identify and lead from that sweet spot where your strengths and passions align.

Jillian Mitchell, a recording artist and vocal coach with almost 20 years of experience, shares how singing can enhance public speaking skills. She emphasizes that singing isn't just for performers; it’s a potent tool for anyone looking to boost their communication confidence. Jillian discusses the five key benefits of singing for speech, including breath support, articulation, and pitch control. She also reveals how singing taps into emotional expression, helping speakers engage authentically. Plus, she offers easy warm-up techniques to strengthen vocal presence.

[30:29] What do Shakespeare, children’s stories, and medical role-playing have in common? For Karen Merritt, they’re all part of her fascinating journey as an actor, voiceover artist, audiobook narrator, and Toastmaster. In this episode, Greg Gazin chats with Karen about how the art of audio & voice narration can sharpen your storytelling, boost your confidence, and bring any presentation to life.

Aletta Rochat, the 2025–2026 Toastmasters International President from Cape Town, is a certified coach and accomplished global speaker. She discusses her historic role as the first African president, emphasizing the need for representation in leadership. Aletta shares her inspiring journey with Toastmasters, revealing how it reignited her passion for public speaking. The conversation also uncovers the power of effective communication, active listening, and the importance of inviting new members to foster growth within the community.

[24:08] What do helicopters, hummingbirds, and an underwater puppet show have in common? In the world of Eric Pittman—just about everything. From bush pilot to wildlife filmmaker to Guinness World Record holder, this Toastmaster has lived a life full of bold pivots, creative stunts, and surprising impact. In this episode, Greg Gazin chats with Eric about filming for BBC and Netflix, building a foundry, saving orcas, and how Toastmasters helped him find his voice—on stage and on camera.