The Toastmasters Podcast

[32:22] Discover how Dr. Sherri Raftery turned her foster care experiences into a passion for education and advocacy, strengthened by mentorship & Toastmasters.

[43:04] Didi on his 11-year journey to the 2026 world title, taking risks, finding stories in everyday life, and the people who helped him along the way.

[39:18] Hear 40+ attendees from around the world share what inspired, surprised and connected them at the 2026 International Convention in Vancouver.

Relive Vancouver 2026 as Greg G & Michael D. share their highlights, takeaways, surprises and first-timer perspectives from the International Convention.

[33:03] Stefano McGhee, DTM, 2026-27 Toastmasters International President, on how curiosity, confidence and believing in others shaped his journey.

[34:44] Those opening moments are about more than making an impression. Discover how focusing on your audience can build trust and genuine connection.

[29:10] In an amazing interview, discover how one invitation inspired a teen to build confidence, leadership, and opportunities for young voices through Toastmasters

[28:45] Discover how an unexpected source of inspiration helped reshape one Toastmasters club's thinking, redefining its identity and creating an experience that members and guests wanted to be part of.

[31:52] Explore the often-overlooked role of the Immediate Past President and the value they can bring to a club to help them grow, transition, and thrive.

Get to know our host co-chairs behind the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention as they share what goes into hosting Toastmasters’ biggest event and offer a sneak peek at some of the experiences planned in Vancouver, Canada.

Guest host Ryan Levesque turns the mic around on Host / Producer Greg Gazin to reflect on podcasting, storytelling, curiosity, lesson learned and 300 episodes.

Golden Gavel Honoree, award-winning author and workplace culture strategist shares insights on resilience, workplace wellbeing, gratitude & her upcoming keynote, “Why Are We Here?”

Spot AI pitfalls, maintain your voice, and use practical strategies to improve clarity, credibility, and structure in your communication

[26:51] What happens when Toastmasters help youth step onto a TEDx stage? Lessons in mentorship, adaptability, and finding a voice that truly connects.

[28:53] What led to rapid Toastmasters growth across Africa while global numbers declined? Frank Tsuro shares his experience and leadership insights others can use.

[25:38] How Toastmasters skills helped one entrepreneur stay calm pitching on national TV—while sharing fascinating stories from history

[36:05] A follow-up to 500 Lunches reveals what happened next and the lessons on confidence, conversation and achieving meaningful goals.

[31:27] A longtime Rotarian and newer Toastmaster shares how the Rotary–Toastmasters alliance shows up in real life—not just as a concept, but lived experience

[32:03] Learn why well-meaning communication can miss the mark & how cultural awareness builds bridges & prevents misunderstanding from hardening into judgement

[25:52] Time management isn’t always the answer. Discover how a personal Energy Audit improves clarity, follow-through, and presence for speakers and leaders.

[32:40] What if training your mind mattered as much as training your body? Learn how mental fitness helps speakers achieve their goals

[33:33] What if AI could help you think more clearly and sharpen your message? This episode explores practical, human-first ways to use it.

[27:20] Discover insights, challenges, & lessons gained from more than a decade of writing for Toastmaster magazine—and how they can elevate your skills!

[31:36] Discover how corporate Toastmasters clubs boost workplace communication, leadership, and engagement—and how executive support can help them thrive.

[36:05] Sabyasachi 'Saby' Sengupta on turning self-doubt into victory at the 2025 Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking, with storytelling and humor.

[29:47] Discover how working from your strengths and passions can unlock clarity, boost performance, and bring more fulfillment to how you lead and live

[39:37] Voice coach & expert demonstrates how singing & practicing strengthens your speaking skills—improving clarity, confidence, presence, & vocal stamina

[30:29] Toastmaster, actor, and audiobook narrator shares storytelling secrets—discover how narration skills can elevate your speeches and presentations

[30:44] Aletta shares with us stories about her remarkable personal & Toastmaster's journey to becoming the Int'l President & her vision for the new year

[24:08] A Toastmaster’s wild journey from bush pilot to wildlife filmmaker to Guinness World Record holder—plus orcas, hummingbirds, and underwater PR.

[33:47] Navigating teen talks can be tough. Learn expert talking & listening skills to build connection, ease conflict, and foster life skills for all relations

[29:47] Discover how collaboration—when done with intention—can elevate leadership, foster trust, and create lasting impact within and beyond Toastmasters.

[36:06] Get insider advice from the creatives who bring Toastmasters visuals to life—covering events, selfies, group shots, and everything in between

[33:30} Past Int'l President reveals what’s ahead for the 2025 Philadelphia Convention—surprises, insights & how you can help shape Toastmasters’ next century!

[19:50] A top Harvard professor shares how asking better questions boosts connection, deepens dialogue, & transforms conversations—backed by research- Part 2/2

[32:16] A top Harvard professor shares how asking better questions boosts connection, deepens dialogue, & transforms conversations—backed by research- Part 1/2

[31:15] Award-winning Stanford lecturer/podcast host shares insights on clear communication, anxiety management & upcoming keynote, "From Silence to Brilliance"

[33:14] Discover why change feels uncomfortable, learn to Dance with Discomfort, build resilience with “Sassy Backtalk,” and embrace change with confidence

[31:37] Pilot trainer Phil Wilkes shares how lessons from the flight deck can improve anyone's public speaking and professional communication.

[34:13] Marty Dickinson shares the unexpected powers of Toastmasters mentorship its impact on personal growth & how building a strong program helps clubs thrive

[26:58] Chat with Past Int'l President Morag Mathieson about her journey, how Toastmasters shapes the roles of Women leaders & celebrating Int'l Women's Day

[26:31] Bill shares his experience on ABC's The Golden Bachelorette, what he learned & how Toastmasters helped him on his quest to find love on Reality TV

[33:58] Overspeaking disrupts meetings. Learn why & strategies to improve communication, manage time & stay focused on key goals for effective collaboration.

[30:33] Discover how a rocket scientist-turned-keynoter overcame Impostor Syndrome, earned an AS designation & inspires others to build confidence & do the same

[33:59] Discover how resilience & wellbeing can transform you as Lauren shares insights, lessons & inspiring stories from her AS journey & final presentation

[27:02] Get expert advice on creating inclusive holiday celebrations at work that honor diverse cultures, foster connection, and make everyone feel valued.

[28:38] D. Abayasekara DTM, AS, PIP shares treasure troves of wisdom, captivating stories & secrets, helping him win titles leading him to the WCPS world stage.

[28:26] Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, founder of Toastmasters: Bob Palmer uncovers lesser-known facts, rare finds and mysteries about his life and the early years.

[24:16] Toastmasters CEO Daniel Rex returns for part II of the centennial: a 454-page history book, 45-minute documentary, special print magazine & more

[34:51] Toastmasters CEO Daniel Rex opens our two-part centennial series: early history, Ralph Smedley's vision, the organization's growth and personal stories.

[29:15] Luisa Montalvo, 2024 World Champion of Public Speaking, shares her journey to victory, overcoming last-minute doubts, and dissects her winning speech.

[29:17] Radhi shares with us stories about her incredible personal & Toastmaster's journey of becoming the Int'l President & her vision for the new year

[24:39] Explore the difference between nice vs. kind with Ben Guttmann, a marketing expert & author, as he unpacks why kindness is key to better communication

[22:56] Pulitzer Prize-winning author uncovers the techniques supercommunicators use to enhance their conversation skills and build meaningful relationships

[21:34] Host co-chairs enlighten us about Anaheim and give us a sneak-peek around Toastmasters International 100th anniversary event August 14-17, 2024

[37:39] This award-winning Entrepreneur, speaker & author redefines confidence & inspires us with her incredible journey & a sneak-peek into her book & keynote

[28:22] Financial Planner Todd Bryant shares his Toastmasters journey & story & how a speaking award ribbon inspired his daughter, age 6 to speak at his club

[33:37] Discover insights on resilience & adaptability from the renowned keynote speaker for Toastmasters' 100th anniversary convention in Anaheim, August 2024!

[25:01] New Zealand Author, Business Coach & Toastmaster shares how leading successful teams needs the same 12 conditions as healthy plants in order to thrive.

[28:47] Discover the essence of authenticity in public speaking with Liz Danziger. Learn to balance vulnerability and preparation for impactful presentations

[28:56] An interesting chat with a man embarking on a personal journey to improve his social skills, strengthen his mindset & build an incredible network

[29:52] Monthly ad hoc on-line group & invited guests toast Toastmasters then reads articles from Toastmaster Magazine aloud then has in-depth discussion them

[29:52] Olya Amelia burned out rebuilding her life from scratch, turning it into a career as a health & performance coach. She shares her story & lots of advice

[27:25] Karen Rae Hannah enlightens us on what Improv is, how we can use it in our clubs and have fun, while boosting our speaking & leadership skills

[29:39] A Roast is something you bake in the oven, but also a humorous way to honor or recognize an individual by poking fun at them in a good-natured way.

[48:22] Tune in to our interview with the newest Accredited Speakers (2023) – Stephanie Angelo, Verity Price, Dale Rees-Bevan & their incredible journeys

[34:07] Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE his stories, strategies, & mindset for dealing with unpredictable on-stage mishaps with grace. Bonus: Free digital book.

[29:17] Phil enlightens us a little about the fruits of his Toastmasters Communication & Leadership journey & how others can also benefit from the program

[29:58] People find their voice & purpose many ways. Kaur found hers through storytelling, writing, overcoming adversity, & Toastmasters speech competitions

[32:27] Aman Chopra, public speaking coach and a recent graduate from NYU's Tandon School of Engineering, on the intersection of AI, comedy, and authenticity

[30:44] Jocelyn B. Tyson, 2023 Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking, on her path as a first-time contest competitor and the story behind her win.

[22:24] Jane shares her journey of confidence building, career enhancement and transformation through Toastmasters starting in Nigeria and now in Canada

[26:35] Mayuri Assudani, DTM shares her wisdom on the importance brand consistency and how she used a competition to spread awareness and encourage its use

[33:35] Impostor syndrome expert Dr. Valerie Young helps loosen its grip and explains how it can get in the way of being an effective leader.

[37:41] International President Morag Mathieson from Germany—the second Int'l President from Europe and first female Int'l President from outside N. America.

[33:17] Spontaneous speaking expert Matt Abrahams helps us to Think Faster, Talk Smarter with exciting and valuable tips and ideas from his new book

[33:08] You've heard of a meditation practice, yoga, or writing practice, but a podcast practice? Tara demystifies this & shares her passion for it as well.

[29:37] Interview: 2023 Toastmasters International Co-Chairs Tony Longley & Pamela D. Rolle who enlighten us about the event & a little about their journeys

[31:20] Strategic business consultant Sara Mayer provides tips and strategies to achieve success without burning out.

[27:39] Maureen shows us how international travel can pay endless dividends and have bountiful benefits for Toastmasters by visiting clubs & making connections

[29:58] If you find Small Talk to be awkward, uncomfortable or unnecessary, our guest offers tips to help you excel & create meaningful conversations

[28:21] Eddie Rice “Toast Master" professional speaker & speechwriter demystifies preparing and delivering the ceremonial Toast & offers insights, tips & advice

[34:46] Jolene Stockman, speaker, author discusses neurodiversity, her embrace of her own autism, & why Toastmasters is a perfect place for neurodiverse people

[24:35] When her Father told her she wouldn't make it as an entrepreneur, Diana Robertson defied his expectations. & became a successful communicator & leader

[33:53] Jillian Mitchell, vocal coach and all-around voice advocate, explores vocal tone and provides tips and techniques to optimize your vocal quality.

[27:54] Hosts Greg Gazin & Ryan Levesque share insight & stories from the Mar 2023 Toastmaster magazine article: Tune In to The Toastmasters Podcast

[29:55] Jean Small joined Toastmasters at 68. At 88 she's unstoppable in her accomplishements & proves that you can reinvigorate yourself after retirement.

[24:57] Dave Henson, The Slide Presentation Man, shares tips and best practices for effective slide presentations.

[32:37] Light-hearted & informative presentation on how Clown Presence can take your presentations to the next level. Based on Toastmasters article & Book: Wink

[30:35] Ryan Levesque shares about his article 'Meet Your Future Self - Today! New research in psychology can help you design your future & achieve your goals'

[28:32] Dr. Kevin Snyder shares about his experience with pursuing—and achieving—the prestigious Accredited Speaker designation from Toastmasters International

[27:25] You'll hear about an incredible journey how Cristóbal Colón took a passion for Toastmasters & Podcasting, how it transformed his life & lessons learned

[25:07] Speaker & Author Oscar Santolalla who enlightens us on how & why we can use metaphors in our presentations, their powers in communication & persuasion

[30:33] Fiona Swee Lin Price shares the importance of pronouncing names and offers tips on how we can better at it

[30:07] Meet Cyril Junior Dim the 2022 Toastmasters International World Champion of Public Speaking from Wroclaw, Poland. At 24 he's the youngest ever champion

[31:22] Exploring the ongoing legacy, leadership, and wisdom of Past International President, Ted Corcoran of Ireland

[27:24] Novelist and former Toastmaster Katherine Collette discusses her latest novel, set in a fictional world of competitive public speaking

[29:59] Presentation coach & author Joel Schwartzberg shares tips & techniques on how leaders can truly up their listening skills.

[33:25] Meet Matt Kinsey, the 2022-23 International President of Toastmasters International. Hear about his Toastmasters & Leadership journeys & other lessons.