The Toastmasters Podcast

[34:07] Even when you’ve thoroughly prepared for a presentation, things can go awry that you could never possibly anticipate. Today’s guest, Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE has faced the impossibly unpredictable countless times. He joins us to share his stories, strategies, and mindset for dealing with the unexpected with grace. Jim is a professional speaker who has delivered more than 3,500 convention speeches around the world. He is the author of 25 books including his latest, What To Do When You’re The Speaker. Jim is the past National President of the National Speakers Association and is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. He has a TEDx with 2.7 million views.

[29:17] Our guest today Philip Wilkerson III likens his four years of Toastmasters membership to being equivalent to receiving a college degree.  He enlightens us a little about the fruits of his Toastmasters journey and how others can also benefit from the program. He also shares about how his communication and presentation skills continue to blossom and how mentors help guide him and encourage him along the leadership path.

[29:58] People find their voice and purpose in many different ways. Our guest today, Kelly Kaur, found hers, amongst other things, through storytelling, writing, overcoming adversity, and Toastmasters speech competitions. In this episode, Kelly shares many stories, including how she found herself joining Toastmasters and becaming hooked on speech competitions. We also hear how the simple word "No" has had a powerful impact on her life. Starting out as a self-described "immigrant woman with a different accent, and strange stories," today Kelly demonstrates a grounded confidence.

Aman Chopra, public speaking coach and recent graduate from NYU's Tandon School of Engineering, discusses the intersection of AI, comedy, and authenticity. They explore the balance between art and science in engineering, the dedication required for stand-up comedy, the concept of authentic expression, their ambition for a global comedy tour, and their interest in hosting a food show.

Jocelyn B. Tyson, 2023 World Champion of Public Speaking, shares her journey to the main stage, challenges of preparing for a speech competition, overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. She also discusses the importance of conveying a personal story and using Toastmasters title to give back. Additionally, learn how to connect with Jocelyn through LinkedIn, get insights on her feature in Toastmaster magazine, and discover a promotion code for a 50% discount on personalized books from POCES.AI.

[22:24] Toastmasters changes lives. In this episode, host Greg Gazin speaks with Jane Osemwegie. In her youth, Jane was bullied and called names, never feeling like she would ever amount to anything. With dedication, determination and Toastmasters,Jane, in her own words says, "(Now) I see a blessed, confident, Black, and gifted woman in me.”   Jane enlightens us, sharing a little about her journey of confidence building, career enhancement and transformation through Toastmasters starting where she grew up in Nigeria and now in Canada where she currently lives.

[26:35] While most organizations recognize the importance of brand consistency and uniformity, getting everyone on board to follow brand guidelines can sometimes be a challenge. Today we speak with Distinguished Toastmaster Mayuri Assudani who single-handedly took a stand for the brand, cascading brand awareness through her entire district—including through a live competition, no less.

Expert on Impostor Syndrome, Dr. Valerie Young, discusses the obstacles it poses for effective leadership. Topics include understanding the phenomenon, unseen challenges behind polished talks, reflections on a TEDx event, the importance of confidence, and the power of constructive feedback.

[37:41] Meet Morag Mathieson, the 2023--2024 Toastmasters International President from Germany. Morag is Toastmasters’ second-ever International President from Europe, and the first female International President from outside North America. A member for 17 years, she is a member of 3 clubs. On today’s episode, President Matheison shares about her Toastmasters journey, her leadership philosophy, and her post-pandemic vision for the organization.

Matt Abrahams, a spontaneous speaking expert, shares valuable tips for improving spontaneous speaking skills and reducing public speaking anxiety. He discusses the concept of 'dare to be dull' in communication and emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience. The chapter also explores elevator pitch structure and the benefits of Toastmasters, with light-hearted banter and a sponsor mention