The Toastmasters Podcast

[26:58] Toastmasters International was founded in 1924, but women weren’t admitted as members until 1973. Since then, they’ve made a lasting impact on the organization’s leadership. In 2025, four of the five Executive Committee members are women—and none were born in North America. In today’s episode, just in time for International Women’s Day, we honor all women and speak with Toastmasters Immediate Past International President Morag Mathieson, DTM.

[26:31] It’s not every day that Bill Hernandez gets a golden opportunity to put his communication skills to the test on network television—let alone bare his soul while searching for love in front of millions of viewers on an American dating reality TV series for 55+. But that’s exactly what happened to this charismatic, now 69-year-old retired videographer when he appeared on  ABC’s The Golden Bachelorette.

Joel Schwartzberg, a seasoned communications coach and award-winning speechwriter, shares his insights on the pitfalls of overspeaking. He highlights how excessive talking disrupts meetings and offers strategies to enhance clarity and focus during discussions. Schwartzberg emphasizes the importance of knowing when to stop speaking to foster productive interactions. He also explores the value of open-minded leadership and active listening in enhancing collaboration. Listeners gain practical tips to manage communication more effectively and ensure their conversations are impactful.

[30:33] Maureen Zappala is one of two members who successfully completed the final step of the Accredited Speaker (AS) application process at the 2024 Toastmasters International convention in Anaheim, California. She was subsequently awarded the prestigious Accredited Speaker designation joining an elite group of only 95 individuals to receive this accreditation and honor since the program began in 1981.

[33:59] Lauren Parsons is one of two members who successfully completed the final step of the Accredited Speaker (AS) application process at the 2024 Toastmasters International convention in Anaheim, California. She was subsequently awarded the prestigious Accredited Speaker designation joining an elite group of only 95 individuals to receive this accreditation and honor since the program began in 1981.

[27:02] With the holiday season upon us, many workplaces everywhere are buzzing with festivities. But not everyone celebrates the same holidays—or even at the same time. Our guest today, Dean Foster, tackles an essential question: How can we ensure holiday celebrations are inclusive and respectful of everyone’s traditions in a multicultural environment?

[28:38] Speech competitions are an excellent way to elevate your speaking skills. Our guest today, Dilip Abayasekara, DTM, AS, and Past International President, has had an extraordinary speaking career, extensive experience, and a wealth of knowledge. His achievements include five district-level titles, two appearances at the World Championship of Public Speaking (WCPS) finals, and an impressive second-place finish in 1992. He has accumulated a treasure trove of wisdom, captivating stories, and winning secrets, some of which he’ll be sharing with us today.

[28:26] In this episode, we speak with Bob Palmer, a retired elementary school teacher and Toastmaster with a passion for historical research, who helps us uncover some lesser-known facts and hidden mysteries about the father of Toastmasters International, Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, and the early days of the organization before its official incorporation 100 years ago in 1924.

[24:16] In Part 2 of Toastmasters 100, Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex returns as our special guest. This time, Dan joins us to discuss the organization’s centennial celebrations and how World Headquarters has compiled a variety of resources and action items to help you explore, celebrate, and learn from the past 100 years of Toastmasters history. You’ll also hear personal stories that may enlighten, inspire, or even make you laugh.

[34:51] It’s an exciting time for Toastmasters International as we celebrate the organization’s centennial. To commemorate Toastmasters’ 100th anniversary, Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex will be our special guest for a two-episode event.