The Toastmasters Podcast

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

[33:08] You’ve heard of a meditation practice, a yoga practice, or a writing practice. But a podcast practice? Today’s guest, Tara McMullin‚Äîa podcast fanatic and audio aficionado‚Äîsuggests just such an approach to podcasting. Tara demystifies how to do that and along the way shares her passion for the medium. This episode is a follow-up to Tara’s article in the August 2023 issue of the Toastmaster magazine, "Put Your Podcast in Practice."

[29:37] Chairing a Toastmasters International Convention can be a rewarding experience, but combining that journey with a three-decade-long friendship can enhance the magic even more. Today we have the honor of speaking with co-chairs Tony Longley & Pamela D. Rolle, from District 47. This dynamic duo will welcome Toastmasters around the world to the tropical paradise of Nassau in the Bahamas for the hybrid International Convention taking place August 16-19, 2023.

[31:20] Are you overwhelmed? Could you be at risk of burnout? Today’s guest has the know-how and tips to help you keep burnout at bay. Sara Mayer is a strategic business consultant and the CEO of Sara Mayer Consulting. She believes you can set and crush bold goals without working double-time‚Äîor burning out.

[27:39] Traveling internationally can open our eyes to a whole new world of experiences, especially for Toastmasters, given there are clubs located all over the world. Back for the third time, our guest today Maureen Zappala has connected with several members with Toastmasters-inspired experiences and stories and shares them with us today. She also offers tips for enhancing your travel abroad by visiting clubs and making new connections.