The Toastmasters Podcast
Greg Gazin
[39:37] What do singing and public speaking have in common? According to Jillian Mitchell, more than you might think. In this fun and hands on episode, host Greg Gazin chats with Jill about why singing isn’t just for performers—it’s a secret weapon for confident communication. A professional singer, recording artist, and vocal coach with nearly 20 years of experience, Jill explains how singing strengthens your voice, sharpens articulation, improves pitch, and builds stamina. More than mechanics, she reveals how singing taps into the emotional side of the voice, helping speakers connect with authenticity and presence.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 1, 2023 • 0sec
#234: The Practice of Podcasting – Tara McMullin
[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."
Jul 15, 2023 • 0sec
#233: 2023 Hybrid Int'l Convention – Nassau, Bahamas – Tony Longley & Pamela D. Rolle
[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.
Jul 1, 2023 • 0sec
#232: Keeping Burnout At Bay: Advice from a Strategic Business Coach — Sara Mayer
[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.
Jun 15, 2023 • 0sec
#231: Traveling Internationally? Experience Toastmasters on Vacation– Maureen Zappala
[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.
Jun 1, 2023 • 0sec
#230: Small Talk, Big Results – Diane Windingland
[29:58] If you’re like many people, you may find small talk awkward or uncomfortable. If so, today’s guest has your back for your next party, social, or networking event. Diane Windingland, DTM offers a plethora of tips to help you make the most of small talk and maximize your chances of progressing to more meaningful conversations.
May 15, 2023 • 0sec
#229: Mastering the Toast—CHEERS! – Eddie Rice
[28:21] A Toast is simply a short speech yet many fail to Master the art - all you have to do is scroll through YouTube to witness the number of disasters that occur from a simple raising of a glass. In this episode, hosts Greg & Ryan speak with “Toast” master and Toastmaster Eddie Rice. Rice explains what a Toast is and offers insights, tips and advice on preparing and delivering a Toast which can also apply to any ceremonial speech – even under the challenging situations.
May 1, 2023 • 0sec
#228: Understanding & Celebrating Neurodiversity – Jolene Stockman
[34:46] Jolene Stockman joins us today for a lively, enlightening discussion about neurodiversity, including her personal story of discovering and embracing her autism. Jolene shares how Toastmasters offered her brain the perfect environment and program, and explains why she prefers to be called “autistic” rather than a “person with autism.”
Apr 15, 2023 • 0sec
#227: Defying Dad’s Expectations Leads to Flourishing Leadership - Diana Robertson
[24:35] As a teenager, Diana Robertson was crushed when her Father told her she didn’t have what it takes to be an entrepreneur. She set out to show him otherwise. In this episode, Greg speaks with Diana about how this once shy introverted young woman overcame challenges through a mix of determination and help from Toastmasters in both Russia and the U.K. Diana’s journey included participating in speech competitions, taking on leadership roles within her Club and District, and even chairing a District conference in 2020.
Apr 1, 2023 • 0sec
#226: Tone-Up Your Voice – Jillian Mitchell
[33:53] Do you love the sound of your own voice? Whether you do or not, today’s guest, Jillian Mitchell, is a vocal coach and voice advocate who believes everyone has a unique vocal "sound print," and that with practice everyone’s voice can become more open and resonant. Jillian explores all-things-tone, including what makes our voices unique, and how we can unblock our voices to improve our vocal quality. She even guides the hosts through a fun vocal exercise that listeners can try out for themselves.
Mar 15, 2023 • 0sec
#225: This is Us – The Toastmasters Podcast – Greg Gazin & Ryan Levesque
[27:54] In the latest episode, co-hosts Greg Gazin & Ryan Levesque offer insight as a follow-up to the March 2023 article in the Toastmaster magazine: Tune In to The Toastmasters Podcast: Learn about the organization’s official podcast series and its hosts, written by Shannon Dewey. The hosts share their experiences, starting with how the podcast began, the partnership with the Toastmaster magazine, the show’s raison d’être, and more.
