Podcasts about toastmasters

In this episode, Tiff and Nikki talk about a critical piece under the marketing umbrella: networking with people in your community across different "genres" of expertise. They discuss knowing your demographic, building a two-way street of referrals, leaning on your hobbies, and a ton more ways to get your business out there and being talked about. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript: Tiffanie (00:01) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. We are excited to be here. I say it every single time and we truly, truly mean it. I think you guys believe me and know that by now Nikki is here with me today. Nikki, thank you so much for being here. this is our podcasting morning and we block out the a morning, we do a couple hours and make sure that we get the best content we possibly can out to everyone. I'm actually really excited about this one. We just talked through it. for those of you who don't know, our marketing company, they   comb the internet and they comb our calls, they look through all of the data and information they possibly can and look for the best topics they can help us think of, and then they deliver those topics over to us. So for all of you out there, if there's a topic, subject that you've loved you want more of, please let us know. If there's a topic that you're like, gosh, I wish these ladies would just talk about this or dive into this more, let us know. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com   you can tag any one of us in there. Doug is our podcast guru in the background today. and of course we're the ones recording them. So if you've got ideas, we love ideas. We love nothing more than to bring you the stuff that you guys actually need. So Nikki, how are you this morning? Thank you for being here. We were talking earlier about our random Arizona summer storm, which I think it's gone and it's like just hot and humid now, and here we are. So anyways, how are you today?   Nikki Mack (01:23) so good. I know recovering all the damage, you know, the flipped over chairs, the lawn furniture. Nothing flew out of the yard this storm. So always a win, but I'll take it. The hot is worth it because the storms are beautiful. And   Tiffanie (01:37) They are.   Nikki Mack (01:37) in a couple months it's gonna be amazing. We're gonna be really, really happy. Maybe we podcast outside. Just kidding. That's crazy. But   Tiffanie (01:44) you would be so happy.   Nikki Mack (01:45) happy to be here this morning inside in my AC in the aftermath of the storm for sure.   Tiffanie (01:52) Same. Kiera and I did podcast because I think we've done it twice. We've done we've podcasted from South Mountain here in Arizona. Yeah. And   Nikki Mack (01:59) Amazing.   Tiffanie (02:00) that was when that was I mean that was gosh, we were just starting. That was a long time ago. And then we've podcasted from a mountain across the street from her house in Nevada. So and that was our I think that was our birthday podcast last year or the year before. So you never know. We might end up outside. I do love being outside as an Arizona native.   as I'm sure you do as well when it's not 115 or humid. Yeah. Arizona   Nikki Mack (02:25) When it's one hundred and fifteen.   Tiffanie (02:28) doesn't do well with humidity. Like it's been a little humid this summer, and I'm like by a little I mean like there's been like five to ten percent humidity out there, and you feel every ounce of it. So I'm ready for just good weather. so with that, thinking about outside, thinking about outside of ourselves, I love   marketing. It's one of my favorite things in the whole wide world. Like to me, I think communication is marketing. Like I'm constantly marketing myself, right? Who I am, how I show up, and like how I speak to people is marketing. I I just think marketing is showing up in a certain way to get the result that you want. And people overextend it, they overcomplicate it and they think that they have to do it a very certain way. And the reason marketing is   It's a an amazing tool, but the reason it sucks is because it's really hard to like guarantee results, right? So there isn't a certain way. There are multiple stabs in the dark that we take to get different results. And luckily, our blessing is that we get to see a lot of those different ways. We have a lot of practices. We've worked in a lot of practices. We've taken shots in the dark and   really figured out and narrowed in some things that work. And today I really wanted to talk about like strategic community networking and becoming partners with different people in the in the community, different networks in the community and just different genres outside of dentistry. And I think it's really important for dental practices and dental practice owners, business owners in general to do this. I know Toastmasters used to be like this massive thing. It's still here. Like I know someone who does Toastmasters and   She's like the shyest, like most internal person. She's like, I will learn how to talk to people. And so like Toastmasters is still a thing, but the best thing about Toastmasters is wasn't hasn't always been that you learn how to speak in public. It's the community that you build and those referrals, right? And you know, my fiance is a business professional and   Within his profession, he goes to networking events a lot. He's not a good, like he he's a very internal person as well. But he goes and he does these networking events because then he can refer his own clients or his friends. We've used people to, you know, by referral. And building that network totally changes the game because it's a bit like it's a forward and backwards. Like I refer to you, you refer to me, we know each other.   We help each other, all of those different pieces. So I wanted to talk a ton today about how to strategically build that community as a small business owner and a dental practice owner, you know, in any town. And Nikki to your point earlier and maybe speak to this a little bit, you were saying the reason that we and the reason marketing isn't super cookie cutter.   is because we all live in different demographics. But I do think we have some great ideas that could work anywhere. But Nikki, take us through some of what you were talking about there. Like why does it make a difference that where we live?   Nikki Mack (05:42) Absolutely.   Also, quick nerd alert. Five years in Toastmasters back in the day. So a hundred percent.   Tiffanie (05:47) There you go, I knew it. I should have known that.   Nikki Mack (05:52) yeah, I think when we talk about, you know, things not being cookie cutter and knowing your demographic marketing, especially, especially if we're talking community outreach, is a huge place to be in. you know your demographic. This isn't even where I'm like, okay, doctor, sit down and like think about your patients. You know your patience, your team knows your patients.   What is important in your area? What are the things that people post about, go to, talk about? And then being able to lean into that opportunity. Do you have if you're a pediatric office, right? We were just talking about this one. are you right in the middle of a bunch of school districts or a lot of school areas? Do the school nurses have your office information, right? do you participate in teacher appreciation week?   Like what does your outreach look like in those areas? Because not just for the teachers who deserve the world, of course, but also that's when they talk to parents, right? Or the parents that come and see who's taking care of their teachers as well, you're building that not just relationship, but that reputation. And that's what really drives those referrals, that culture, that everything we talk about. Now, maybe if you're a very specialized, I don't know, periodist.   sponsoring teacher appreciation day might not yield the same results, right? So this is where I say, like, know your area, know your demographic. every city has a chamber of commerce, right? the action level and what you kind of get for that membership varies everywhere. But if you look into it and it responds well with your culture and what you're driven, especially if you're very community focused and they do have a lot of those opportunities.   Reach out, right? You know, sign up, try it out for a year. Usually it's an annual membership or so, because the relationships you're gonna build to Tiff's point with those other business owners in the community too are going to be very impactful and possibly spread that reach even further than you would have thought of. And a network who's also trying to actively market and grow their business, what a resource. Because we may not all   Tiffanie (08:02) I see.   Nikki Mack (08:02) be dental, but we can share best practices.   share opportunities and even partner on certain things sometimes. So knowing your demographic, knowing what's really key and crucial, so important. If you're a downtown people commute in, you're right by all the businesses, well, the community pieces might look a little different for you. And so maybe you find out that who did what who did we use Wells Fargo, right?   Tiffanie (08:29) Mm-hmm.   Nikki Mack (08:30) Wells Fargo corporate building is a block from your office.   Does that HR lady know your name, right? Are you guys in network or do you file out of network for them? Knowing your audience is a great way to start before we just cause marketing when it doesn't work is exhausting. So let's be strategic to start and and get some really good results.   Tiffanie (08:54) Yeah, I love all of that. All of that. There are a few pieces there I wanna point out. You said referrals, right? Well, you said periodonist that might not yield the same results and it made me think, Okay, well, how much work are we doing to build the relationship back with those referring practices? I know when I was in that or in office I used to ha have a gosh, get my words together, an orthodontist.   that was really had a really close relationship with our doctor because of a community networking group that they were a part of outside of the dental practice and they routinely sent us families because families found them without a GP dentist because they knew their kid, their teenager needed braces, right? So they'd go to the orthodontist but need a GP dentist so they'd refer him over. Same with periodonists, you know, people look up implant, they end up at an oral surgeon or or a periodontist and they don't have a GP. You guys need them.   To have a GP, so you send them over. So making sure we're building that two-way street of referrals is huge. The Chamber of Commerce, I love this Chamber of Commerce situation and I've seen it really spike up recently with a few practices that we're working with. And I I have one that comes to mind and he'll know exactly who he is. he joined the Chamber of Commerce a few years ago. He's one of the business owners, but he's also the the like practice manager. He manages the business manager, right?   He joined the Chamber of Commerce for their practice when they relocated into a bigger building and he did it in order to really get to know the community. They lived outside of their community, about an hour outside the community that they worked in for a long time. Then they decided to move to that area, and now they're about five minutes down the road from the practice, which is super convenient. But they didn't feel like they knew the community. They felt like they were outsiders and they wanted to be more invested and involved. So they joined the Chamber of Commerce.   And they really started showing up at different events. They started doing, he did a leadership course through the Chamber of Commerce and through the the City Community College there. He knows everyone in that town. Like they have so many connections and so many amazing businesses that support them and vice versa, they support. And something that I don't think people really understand about the Chamber of Commerce is that it's like just that networking piece, the emails that say, hey,   We've got a ribbon cutting event coming up. Like, cool, there's a ribbon cutting event for a small business. Let me go show face and shake hands and say hello to the new owner and welcome them to business ownership. If there's anything that you come across, by all means, I've been through a lot. I might not know it all, but I might have something to offer and just be a neighbor, like be a friendly neighbor. Those community networking pieces could go so far.   And something else you made me think of. I don't remember why I thought of it, but I thought I think you said knowing your demographics, and you said like what what plays to them, right? And then I thought, Nikki, I've never thought of this before, and I think it might be gold mine. I'm not sure. What   Nikki Mack (11:55) Yeah.   Tiffanie (11:56) are your hobbies? Right? What do you love to do? So I'm thinking we're in Phoenix, so we have a lot of foodies, right? We've got a million restaurants here. So what if a dentist who is a foodie who loves food or a team member   Who is a foodie and loves food, and they go and they try all these restaurants, and you're out there, right? I have we have a restaurant in downtown Buckeye, Arizona. It's phenomenal, best Mexican food I've ever had in my life. And I have grown up in Arizona. Best food. Okay. I tell everyone about this place. What what if your dental practice that's like, hey, these are our monthly newsletters, and also let me highlight our restaurant this month.   what restaurant did we go to and we love in our community or in thirty minutes from here? Because now it's become something that's not just brush your teeth, floss. Like people don't I'm not gonna lie, most people are not reading those. Like they're not they're not. They're just not, right? But if you catch their attention with something like the best hike I've taken since I've lived in Arizona, best hike of the month, best restaurant, best ice cream. I have a doctor who loves popcorn. Like where are you getting your best popcorn? What's your   popcorn flavor this month. Like spice it up a little bit with something that's different. Because as I was as you were speaking earlier and I thought of that, I thought, how cool would it be to be like, you're going to that restaurant? I've actually heard of that. And I'm like, where did you hear about it? It's so obscure. And they're like, actually my dentist. Who's your dentist? Because now you've just created a new conversation topic that you can insert yourself into in a network of people across your whole city.   Nikki Mack (13:37) Yeah, absolutely. It makes me think of do you know how sometimes coffee shops or like little bakeries or cafes will have like the question of the day and you   Tiffanie (13:46) Mm-hmm.   Nikki Mack (13:47) answer when you come in? I've seen some dental practices do that, right? Like they have   Tiffanie (13:51) Yeah.   Nikki Mack (13:52) their question of the week or you know, question of the month. and it's just that fun little connection, like you said, and especially if it's something community driven, like what's your favorite Mexican place around here? What's your favorite restaurant? Who's your favorite coffee shop?   to drive kind of that conversation and connection because yeah, then if someone goes and tries it, it's like, how did you hear about us? And you're like, my dentist, actually.   Tiffanie (14:13) Yeah.   Nikki Mack (14:14) it's such a like full circle moment, especially if it's someone that you have partnered with in the past, whether it's meeting each other at a ribbon cutting or you know being at some other event, or they just maybe they're a patient too, right? Like there's always those small world connections and finding ways to close those little links there.   it's always such a neat and unique opportunity because this is why we talk about referrals are the best source for patients because you're it's patients you love referring people they love, right? To come into your practice and they know who you are and like what your culture is. And so when you build those relationships with our networking sources or referral sources and opportunities, it's that same type of environment where they're gonna be referring people   that   fit like what you're looking for and kind of fit that mold. so you just you put so many opportunities out there by by making those connections. I I love that. Also after the cast, I'll need that restaurant. we'll check it out. Okay. Yeah.   Tiffanie (15:14) Totally. Yeah, I will. I will. I'll send it to you. It's so good. It's so   good. and also I was thinking you said, if you've partnered with that person or if they're patients, like why not host we do Invisalign days all the time, right? Or ortho days, Clearliner days, Candid Pro days, whatever you're calling them. and you also do study clubs. Like study clubs are   Nikki Mack (15:38) Mm-hmm.   Tiffanie (15:39) cool because you need the CE. But study clubs are not like you're not   generating a lot of referrals because it's a bunch of other dentists, right? Why not host a networking like day, right? Or or a couple hours and a networking group in your dental practice on a Friday morning from like eight to ten AM. You can have muffins and donuts and coffee and orange juice and water and invite your patients that have businesses, real estate agents, insurance brokers, financial advisors, they're all in your patient base, I promise you.   Doesn't mean you have to use them. It means, hey, I know that there's a community of people here who need a networking group. I would love to do a once a month networking group or once a quarter network networking group for two hours. Invite your patients and invite your patients to invite their friends.   Nikki Mack (16:29) Mm-hmm.   Tiffanie (16:29) Everyone knows somebody. So bring a buddy, maybe every third one. I mean, I would do everyone, but I would do bring a buddy. Like bring a buddy and get a free ticket.   you know, to enter to win the blackstone. I don't know. Do something, but if you were to host something like that for your patients and for local businesses nearby, bam, more. And you're just the whole point in this is marketing is is hard. Marketing is difficult. And we rely on outside sources to do a lot. And I love nothing more Nikki than to look at what can I do? What can I control?   And building a strategic community network, all all it does is start self-promoting your business. Be a good person, know good people. People talk about you. So this whole thing is not only fun, I think, and some doctors might say, like, yeah, you're crazy, you like people. Cool, have your office manager   Nikki Mack (17:26) Yeah.   Tiffanie (17:27) do it. Like, I don't know, ask somebody in your practice is gonna want to do something like this. But what it's doing is it's building your patient base with   out paying for new patients. It's it's a outside the box, out of the normal way of expanding your reach into your community to bring in new patients to your practice to grow your dental practice that's just completely outside the box. And I think in 2026 and whatever year moving forward, you're listening to this, outside the box is what we have to do. The norm just isn't cutting it anymore. You can't just place Google ads   And expect the floodgates to open. You can't just send postcards to your neighbors and expect the floodgates to open. You've got to do something different that gets attention. And building that community and that networking group not only helps you, but it helps all of those other people. And that's when those floodgates open, in my opinion.   Nikki Mack (18:28) I   agree. And I think to your point with when you think outside the box and you come up with an idea, right? Or your team comes up with an idea because it's maybe something they saw or heard or read about, or maybe an idea shared on the Discord that another doctor in a different state   Tiffanie (18:42) Yeah.   Nikki Mack (18:43) used, right? And you're like, I want to do that. Here's what I feel like happens a lot. I want to do that, but I know I don't have time. And so I shelve   Tiffanie (18:50) Mm.   Nikki Mack (18:50) it. Right. Or like, I don't have the bandwidth. Like I absolutely love the network hosting idea.   I don't have the bandwidth to organize that. Well, guess what? There's probably a local group already out there that is doing these things or looking for places to meet. I know in my neighborhood area in Phoenix, we have this huge Facebook group that they do a lot for networking. There's a couple people who run it. They host networking events. They host like open table nights for the neighborhood for people to come and meet each other. And one of the things that they're always looking for is places.   to host. So   Tiffanie (19:27) Yeah.   Nikki Mack (19:28) maybe you don't have the bandwidth currently to create a networking group, right? And host them and do all of the the kind of legwork. Absolutely. But if you like that idea and you have the space, if you have a beautiful break room, right? Or a beautiful lobby, reach out. I bet you or someone on the team knows a local group. Do a quick little local search, right? Reach out.   make sure that they fit, you know, it's the right type of group, their their kind of vision or what they're searching out to do is what you align with. But I'll tell you what, I've been that person trying to find locations and organize groups and where to meet. And when somebody comes out like, hey, you can use my space, here's what it would look like, right? Here's how we could make it work. my gosh, like game changing. And then now you have just solidified your piece like in this network.   And now that's going to create so much opportunity because we all know once they come in the office and experience you and your team, game changer, right? And they have that   Tiffanie (20:28) Yeah, I agree.   Nikki Mack (20:29) opportunity to do it. So any idea, it doesn't just have to be the network hosting. But if you hear something or see something or think of something and your first thought is, I don't have the bandwidth, don't drop it. How do we pivot? What can we do? How do we adjust it? How do we tweak it so that it is something we could fit in, at least in some companies.   Capacity. And that's where your consultants come in, right? I love those messages, Nikki. I had a great idea. I'm like, yes, lay it on me. Let's talk about it. So you're not alone. You don't have to figure out how to make it work. If it's a great idea, let's work it out. Let's talk it through and see how we can make it work for your practice. You have a network. you have consultants, you have the other doctors with the Dental A Team. There's being out of the box means all hands on deck sometimes. So   Tiffanie (21:18) I agree. one last idea, you were talking bandwidth and I I agree. And I thought, like, okay, you can you said earlier, teacher appreciation, right? Make sponsoring that could also sponsor the mommies and muffins and muffins and mom, like whatever it is, like those types of things as well. But also you could go to the donut shop or the kofi coffee shop or whatever like local small business is near you and say, Hey, here's two hundred dollars.   the next two hundred dollars worth of purchases is on me. So when somebody comes and they order their coffee, all I ask is that you let them know that we purchased it for them and we want them to have a great day. Write a little like motivational like have a great day. You are loved, you are seen, you are whatever on a little card. Give that to the desk and let the let $200 worth of money be your marketing for the morning for that coffee shop. Something   that's just different and people are like, wow, that was so unheard of. Okay, that was my last idea. Listen to this. There's a ton of ideas in here, you guys. And the biggest piece is strategically build your community. Your network, what does Kiera say? There's a there's Kiera doesn't it's not her saying, but it's someone's right. But your net worth is directly correlated to your network. And so the people that you know, the people who are help building you up, the people who are   referring back and forth, the the people that you call when business sucks and even though they're not indental, they can relate to you because they own a business. That's your network, right? So build your net worth by reaching out and building your community network. See what you can do to help other people. Nikki, this was really fun. Thank you for taking the journey with me. I know I made a lot of stops and pivots and turns, but that's what marketing is. So thank you and thank you for your time this morning that you blocked out for me.   Nikki Mack (23:13) Always, thanks for having me. Love talking marketing. Always happy to work through stuff. So I'm really excited to see what some of our listeners come up with.   Tiffanie (23:23) I agree. I agree. And with that, go brainstorm. Drop us a five-star review below and let us know what you did, whether it was something we suggested or something you thought of on your own. Let us know what you thought of. We want to share all of these with the community. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. We are here to help you to work through it, to brainstorm, to do all of the fun pieces. So let us know how we can best support you. And with that, we will catch you next time.  

On this episode of Your Speaking Matters, Rik and Carol, discuss what a Chief Judge is and what actions they can do in Toastmasters

Lizzie Eastham and Sam Rickard present Studio 1 - Vision Australia Radio’s weekly look through a different lens. On this week’s show “Decoding AI for Accessibility” Sam and Lizzie go all-in on AI – for better or worse. It’s is an acronym that has gone from being the stuff of science fiction to mild confusion; moderate fear and face it... has ended up being all of the above and also very useful. So we asked AI to come up with a title for the episode (Sam prefers his “Let me be your Brains”) and if you want to know more read the attached article... surprise surprise, it also has ben generated by AI! Studio 1 welcomes any input from our listeners. If you have any experience or thoughts about issues covered in this episode or believe there is something we should be talking about. EMAIL: studio1@visionaustralia.org or leave comment on the station’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VARadioNetwork A special thank you to Stephanie; Carolyn; Jennifer and Garth Next week: if you have a disability, there can be challenges to finding and maintaining friendships. We decided to get some professional Help. If you want to have your say on this topic or anything else please join our Whatsapp group here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FwBORTly2OqC9FFmQAm97z?s=hd&p=i&mlu=3&amv=2 This program was made possible with support from the Community Broadcasting Foundation. Find out more at https://cbf.org.au/ Decoding AI for Accessibility: How Vision Australia Radio’s Studio 1 Explores the New Frontier of Assistive Tech In a recent episode of Studio 1 on Vision Australia Radio, hosts Sam Rickard and Lizzy Eastham dive deep into artificial intelligence, exploring how an acronym once associated with science fiction has quickly transformed into an everyday lifesaver for people who are blind or living with low vision. Rather than treating AI as a distant novelty, the episode highlights practical applications, community stories, and the nuanced line between genuine empowerment and over-reliance. Everyday Visual Description and Navigation For many blind and low-vision listeners, visual description tools powered by AI have revolutionized daily social interaction and independence. Show contributors share how visual AI models give detailed context to images sent by family and friends over messaging apps. Rather than missing out on shared visual moments, users can upload photos to tools like Be My Eyes or ChatGPT to receive immediate, granular scene descriptions—from family photos to intricate environmental details like a full moon over a jetty. Beyond standard static image descriptions, AI tools are expanding into real-time environmental navigation and daily tasks. App features such as Seeing AI and Aira allow users to quickly read mail, identify product labels, and recognize colors. Assistive apps linked with smart wearables like Meta glasses, such as the Orion app, offer continuous pathway updates—notifying users of obstacles like rubbish bins or helping them locate mislaid items like AirPods on the floor. Hands-free voice-driven tools like Lumen also streamline email management for Gmail users without requiring screen interaction. Writing, Speechwriting, and Custom Software Creation AI has also taken on a significant role in creative and professional workflows. Guest speakers detail how large language models like ChatGPT and Claude assist in structuring emails, formatting reports, and refining Toastmasters speeches. Rather than replacing human thought, contributors emphasize using AI as an editing partner to polish tone, organize interview questions, or brainstorm creative speech concepts. Taking technological empowerment a step further, computer instructor Garth Humphries demonstrates how AI allows non-coders to build bespoke software tailored to their visual accessibility needs. Using Claude, Humphries developed a customized audio-video editing suite and custom controls for a Stream Deck controller to solve specific accessibility barriers that off-the-shelf software failed to address. The Pitfalls: Audio Editing, AI Slop, and Loss of Creativity Despite the overwhelming benefits, Studio 1 doesn't shy away from the downsides of emerging AI technology. Co-host Sam Rickard shares his experience testing AI editing software like Descript, pointing out that automated filler-word removal often cuts off natural speech patterns, creating unnatural edits. The hosts also discuss Adobe Podcast's speech enhancement tools, demonstrating how AI noise reduction can strip away spatial ambiance if over-applied. Furthermore, the episode touches on broader cultural concerns surrounding "AI slop"—monotonous, machine-generated content flooding platforms like YouTube and Spotify. The hosts advocate for maintaining authentic human storytelling in literature, art, and music, reminding listeners that while AI serves as an exceptional assistant, human perspective remains irreplaceable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most people who want to speak on stage have no idea how the first step actually happens. JD Miller does. He is the CEO of the James Duane Group and SVP at CyberRisk Alliance, he runs events across the country, and he decides who gets a microphone and who does not. In this conversation, Sean Barnes and JD break down the real progression from nobody to keynote speaker. It starts with a phone and a tripod in your living room. It moves to a panel seat, then a fireside chat, then a short session, then the keynote. JD explains what he checks on LinkedIn before he books anyone, why he intentionally gives first-time speakers a slot, and why the ask should never come in the first conversation. They also get into why copying another speaker sets you up to fail, how one recorded conversation turns into a dozen assets, and why picking one platform beats being everywhere. Sean shares the six years he spoke for free and the mistake he made telling organizers he could talk about anything. JD shares the night he literally fell off the back of a stage and why it helped him. If you are an executive who wants a bigger voice and does not know where to start, this is the roadmap.   Key Moments 0:09 - How Sean and JD first met, and why the connection stuck 1:05 - JD's path: church announcements, sports anchor, thousands of broadcasts, hundreds of podcasts 2:21 - Sean's story: extreme introvert to keynote speaker, and why people do not believe it 2:51 - You can be a public speaker no matter where you land on the introvert scale 3:36 - Toastmasters, improv, and practicing into a microphone with nobody listening 4:19 - Why short-form clips train you to land the plane 5:39 - The worst thing you can do is compare yourself to someone with 30 years in 6:33 - Sean on speaking free for almost six years to get the reps 8:20 - The mistake of telling an organizer you can talk about anything 9:07 - Do not be the Cheesecake Factory of topics. Keep it small and specific 9:57 - How to actually get on a panel: build the network first 11:07 - Why JD books first-time speakers on purpose, and where he places them 12:27 - Build the relationship before you make the ask 13:14 - The QR code badge trick that removes friction 14:07 - Getting comfortable being uncomfortable 15:59 - Stage skills carry straight into the boardroom 16:14 - The extrovert's hardest lesson: let silence breathe 17:03 - Eye contact as a signal, on a panel and in a meeting 18:18 - How JD opens a room and gets an audience leaning forward 20:16 - Do not copy your mentor. Borrow traits and make them yours 22:32 - Document everything and build social proof 23:41 - What JD checks before he agrees to book someone 24:20 - One piece of content is really 12 pieces of content 26:08 - Know where your audience lives and stop trying to be everywhere 27:50 - The 4-1-1 approach to posting 29:11 - Be patient, and find a mentor who has done it 30:17 - Failure stories, including the time JD fell off the stage 31:31 - When you fumble, keep moving and never apologize 32:43 - The full path, start to keynote, in one recap 33:13 - Where to find JD   Key Takeaways Start smaller than you think you should. A phone on a tripod, a panel seat in the corner, four people in a room. Reps come before pay, and for Sean that meant roughly six years of speaking for free. Own one topic, not every topic. Telling an organizer you can speak on anything pushes the work onto them and cheapens your brand. A narrow, specific topic makes you easy to book. Build the relationship before the ask. Organizers check your LinkedIn for a voice and a track record before anything else. Show up, connect, create content, then ask next year.   Podcast Show Notes – Episode 294 | 08.11.2026 Episode Title: From Panels to Keynotes: The Real Path to Becoming a Speaker | JD Miller & Sean Barnes   Guest: JD Miller CEO, James Duane Group SVP, CyberRisk Alliance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdwaynemiller/ Website: https://www.jamesdwayne.com/   Host: Sean Barnes Wolf Executives, Houston, TX   Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com   https://www.seanbarnes.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/ LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/   Twitter: https://x.com/seanbarnes https://x.com/wolfexecutives   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theseanbarnes

Three finalists for the 2026 Nebula Awards—Amy Chu, Somto Ihezue, and Annalee Newitz—discuss their craft, why they write, and the state of speculative fiction today. Moderated by Tananarive Due, Toastmaster of the 2026 Nebula Awards, which are given annually by the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association. Featured writers and their 2026 Nebula Award nominations [...]

En esta edición de Chequia en 30':  Conversamos con Felipe Toro, traductor al español de El canciller, obra de teatro inspirada en el diplomático checo Jan Masaryk | Roxana Velasco nos presenta Ahorita Toastmasters, una iniciativa en español para perder el miedo a hablar en público.

En esta edición de Chequia en 30':  Conversamos con Felipe Toro, traductor al español de El canciller, obra de teatro inspirada en el diplomático checo Jan Masaryk | Roxana Velasco nos presenta Ahorita Toastmasters, una iniciativa en español para perder el miedo a hablar en público.

Three finalists for the 2026 Nebula Awards—Amy Chu, Somto Ihezue, and Annalee Newitz—discuss their craft, why they write, and the state of speculative fiction today. Moderated by Tananarive Due, Toastmaster of the 2026 Nebula Awards, which are given annually by the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association. Featured writers and their 2026 Nebula Award nominations include: Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz (Nebula Award for Best Novella) Carmilla Volume 3: The Eternal by Amy Chu (Nebula Award for Best Comic) "We Begin Where Infinity Ends" by Somto Ihezue (Nebula Award for Best Novelette) This program was part of the 2026 American Writers Festival. Co-hosted by the American Writers Museum and Chicago Public Library, the American Writers Festival is a free literary event featuring in-depth conversations with diverse writers from across genres and backgrounds. This conversation took place June 7, 2026 and was recorded live at the Harold Washington Library Center. AWM PODCAST NETWORK HUB About the writers: AMY CHU is a multi-genre writer for graphic novels and animation. Her most recent book is the Nebula Award nominated Carmilla: The Eternal (Dark Horse / Berger Books) the final chapter in the award-winning Carmilla the First Vampire trilogy. She teaches at the Kubert School and the School of Visual Arts, and is a board member of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. A frequent convention speaker, she has also judged the Harvey, Ringo and MoCCA awards. Amy holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a double bachelor's degree in Architectural Design from MIT and East Asian Studies from Wellesley College. TANANARIVE DUE is an award-winning author who teaches Black Horror and Afrofuturism at UCLA. A leading voice in Black speculative fiction for more than 20 years, Due has won an American Book Award, an NAACP Image Award, and a British Fantasy Award, and her writing has been included in best-of-the-year anthologies. Her books include The Reformatory (winner of a Los Angeles Times Book Prize, Chautauqua Prize, Bram Stoker Award, Shirley Jackson Award, World Fantasy Award, and a New York Times Notable Book), The Wishing Pool and Other Stories, Ghost Summer: Stories, My Soul to Keep, and The Good House. She and her late mother, civil rights activist Patricia Stephens Due, co-authored Freedom in the Family: A Mother-Daughter Memoir of the Fight for Civil Rights. SOMTO IHEZUE is a writer and filmmaker. He is an MFA fellow in Creative Writing at the University of Maryland. His writes about boyhood, land, disruption, and joy in Igbo communities. His work has been a finalist for the Nebula Award, the Locus Award, the British Fantasy Award, the ALCS Tom-Gallon Trust Award, and has appeared in Clarkesworld, POETRY, Uncanny, Strange Horizons, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, Sauúti, and others. He has received residencies and fellowships from the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts, Tin House, Clarion West, Sundress Academy for the Arts, Rabbit Island, and more. He was assistant editor of the Publishing Taught Me Anthology (SFWA & NEA) and co-editor of Will This Be a Problem? The Anthology. ANNALEE NEWITZ writes science fiction and nonfiction. They are the author of four novels: Automatic Noodle, The Terraformers, The Future of Another Timeline, and Autonomous, which won the Lambda Literary Award. As a science journalist, they are the author of Stories Are Weapons: Psychological Warfare and the American Mind, Four Lost Cities: A Secret History of the Urban Age and Scatter, Adapt and Remember: How Humans Will Survive a Mass Extinction, which was a finalist for the LA Times Book Prize in science. They are a writer for the New York Times and elsewhere, and have a monthly column in New Scientist. They have published in The Washington Post, Slate, Scientific American, Ars Technica, The New Yorker, and Technology Review, among others. They were the co-host of the Hugo Award-winning podcast Our Opinions Are Correct, and have contributed to the public radio shows Science Friday, On the Media, KQED Forum, and Here and Now. Previously, they were the founder of io9, and served as the editor-in-chief of Gizmodo.

The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) Running, Resilience, Reincarnation, and the Light of the Soul Reverend Blake Rubie hosts The Church of the Souls Evolution with a personal monologue on lifelong running, Army fitness, kidney donation, health habits, veganism, singing, spiritual growth, reincarnation, the afterlife, prayer, extraterrestrial civilizations, and humanity's need to evolve beyond war into love, dignity, and peace. Reverend Blake Rubie Opens With Fitness, Memory, and Personal Reflection This episode of The Church of the Souls Evolution, broadcast on August 8, 2026, is hosted entirely by Reverend Blake Rubie. The corrected transcript identifies Reverend Blake Rubie as the host and notes that the raw transcript used “Reverend Blake Ruby,” while the user-confirmed spelling is Reverend Blake Rubie. He begins by welcoming listeners and describing his morning workout at a rubber track, where he walks, jogs, and adds sprinting. From there, the episode becomes a deeply personal reflection on physical discipline, aging, health, music, spiritual growth, and the soul's journey. Army Running, Monterey, and the Commander's Cup Reverend Rubie recalls his years as a runner, especially during his time in the Army at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, from June 1992 to June 1993. After telling his company that he could run two miles in about twelve minutes, he was made captain of the Golf Company run team. He describes the Commander's Cup competitions, daily training, formation runs, cadence, calisthenics, routes down to the Pacific Ocean, and the challenge of running back up the steep Monterey hill. He remembers that the team won the Commander's Cup five times in twelve months and that their best time was eleven minutes and thirty-nine seconds. Kidney Donation, Injury, Recovery, and Exercise Adaptation The episode then turns to one of Reverend Rubie's defining life experiences: donating a kidney to save his son's life in 1995. He explains that the surgery left him with a painful scar, long-term discomfort, and physical limitations that made running, push-ups, sit-ups, bending, turning, walking, and other movements more difficult. He also discusses later medical profiles in the Army, Walter Reed, GERD, reflux, spine fractures, spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, and the gradual shift from running to walking. Rather than presenting this as defeat, he frames it as adaptation, experimentation, and a continuing effort to remain active in a way that works for his body. The Rubber Track, Sprinting Technique, Shoes, and Breathing Reverend Rubie gives practical detail about his present-day workout routine. He prefers a rubber track because it is softer on the joints and avoids pavement, dirt, rocks, holes, and low-traction surfaces. He uses the straightaway rather than running the curves, believing the curves can affect the knees over time. He discusses shoes, especially Skechers slip-in models, and explains that tight laces can create foot pain or affect gait. He also describes beginning sprints slowly from a jog, building into acceleration, and breathing primarily through the nose while running because, in his experience, it helps synchronize the arms, feet, and body. Singing, Toastmasters, Sobriety, and Vegan Discipline After discussing his workout, Reverend Rubie moves into his singing practice. He explains that he warms up a cappella, uses a microphone and sound system, and has memorized more than 150 songs. He connects singing with confidence, church solos, Toastmasters, personal growth, and public speaking. He also reflects on sobriety, saying he has not had alcohol since Labor Day weekend in 1988, and then turns to veganism, which he began in 1999 after donating a kidney. He describes becoming vegetarian first, then vegan, partly for longevity and health, and explains how discipline, research, fiber, and persistence helped him make the lifestyle work. Venezuela, Aging, Gratitude, and the Songs He Loves Reverend Rubie shares memories of moving to Caracas, Venezuela, as a new vegan in 2001 and learning to survive on beans, rice, vegetables, spaghetti with marinara, and cheese-free pizza. He speaks warmly of the Venezuelan people, describing them as positive despite hardship and economic difficulty. As he approaches his seventy-second birthday, he reflects honestly on health, mortality, blood work, an arm wound, and waiting for biopsy results. He also lists many songs he loves and performs, including works by the Eagles, the Doobie Brothers, America, Neil Young, the Allman Brothers, John Denver, Traffic, James Taylor, Don Henley, Billy Idol, The Guess Who, the Beatles, and Gordon Lightfoot. Spirit in the Body, Reincarnation, and the Afterlife The second half of the monologue becomes more explicitly spiritual. Reverend Rubie describes human beings as spirits in material bodies, here through a process of reincarnation, and says that when people die, they transition to the afterlife as pure spirits. He compares the body to worn-out clothing that the spirit leaves behind and says the real self is not the body, but the soul and spirit within it. He teaches that each lifetime offers an opportunity for growth, spiritual development, and increasing the light of the soul. In his view, the Creator's spark is placed into every soul, and the purpose of life is to brighten that divine light. Prayer, Peace, and Humanity's Spiritual Evolution Reverend Rubie closes with a prayerful call for humanity to rise beyond war, violence, and spiritual immaturity. He says prayer can help save the world and repeats the message that “man will prey on man until man learns to pray for man.” He contrasts Earth's violence with higher extraterrestrial civilizations that, in his view, may live with greater love, dignity, and respect for life. He asks whether people want to return to another low-evolution world of conflict or graduate toward higher worlds where beings recognize the sacred light within one another. The episode ends with a heartfelt prayer to Mother and Father God, asking for help, peace, love, and blessing for all people.

You did the bold thing. You went through with it. It even went well. So why isn't the doubt gone? Why does the next meeting, the next date, the next big moment still produce the same anxiety? In this episode, Dr. Aziz unpacks why get out of your comfort zone and face your fears is incomplete advice that's been failing high-functioning people for years. The exposures aren't the problem. What's missing is what's supposed to happen during the exposures, and most people are running so hard at the surface task they never get to it. He shares a story about a Toastmasters client who did fifteen polished speeches without ever updating her actual fear, and a moment from his own training where he taught a group of college students about test anxiety by being the most visibly anxious person in the room. This episode covers: Why exposure-alone keeps high-functioning professionals stuck in endurance mode for decades The thing your nervous system actually needs to learn from each exposure (and what most people accidentally prevent) The hyper-prepared, polished version of you that's been blocking the real update The toggle from endurance mode to enjoyment mode, and what changes when you flip it Discover your approval type. Take the 2-minute quiz at https://www.draziz.com Watch episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrAzizGazipura Work with Dr. Aziz directly: The Unstoppable Confidence Mastermind is a year-long program for people ready to unwire this pattern at the nervous system level. Application at https://www.socialconfidencecenter.com/ucmv3. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drazizconfidencecoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drazizgazipura

What if confidence isn't about having all the answers? In this insightful episode of The Healing You Method Podcast, hosts Gloria and Gail Donohue sit down with Dipti Kothari Jain, an impromptu speaking coach who helps children, teens, and adults build confidence by learning how to respond in uncertain situations. Together, they explore why true confidence isn't built through perfect preparation, but through developing the ability to stay present when life doesn't go according to plan. From public speaking and presentations to everyday challenges, Dipti shares practical strategies for overcoming fear, managing anxiety, and trusting yourself in unexpected moments. In this episode, you'll discover: ✅ Why confidence is a skill, not a personality trait ✅ The difference between preparation and genuine self-trust ✅ How fear and anxiety affect your nervous system ✅ The powerful PSR Framework: Pause, Structure, Respond ✅ Why uncertainty is the key to personal growth ✅ How children and adults can train confidence through experience ✅ Practical tools to think on your feet and communicate effectively Dipti Kothari Jain is an award-winning public speaking coach and impromptu speaking expert with over a decade of experience. She helps children, teens, and adults think on their feet, respond confidently, and express with clarity in real time. As Co-founder of Speaking Ninjas Academy and a TEDx Youth Coach, Dipti designs programs that build confidence through unscripted moments—preparing learners not just for presentations, but for real-life situations. A Toastmasters award-winner, she believes True confidence is built in "Unscripted Moments of Life" You can connect with her through following credentials:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dipti-kot...    / @diptik4742   Whether you're a parent, educator, entrepreneur, public speaker, or someone working through self-doubt, this conversation offers valuable insights into building resilience and navigating life's unpredictable moments with greater confidence.

Everyone tells you the studio's going great. Meanwhile you've been rehearsing one conversation with one staff member in the shower for three weeks. If that's you, this episode was made for you.

On the Lite Lunch today, guest presenter Andrea Hayes talked on topics including a new app to make AI less scary, Toastmasters, the holiday lodge with that extra touch and a new bursary for students. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) Time Travel, Soul Evolution, and the Prayer That Can Change the World Reverend Blake Rubie reflects on singing, service, extraterrestrials, time travel, afterlife judgment, world conflict, prayer, and the soul's journey, urging listeners to love one another, respect the human family, and help guide Earth toward peace. Everyday Life, Date Night, and Toastmasters In this episode of The Church of the Soul's Evolution, Reverend Blake Rubie opens with a personal update from San Antonio, mentioning the weather, a movie date night with his wife, and their new Friday-night routine of going out together. He also discusses attending a Toastmasters meeting that morning, where he gave a short speech he later expands on during the broadcast. The corrected transcript notes that Blake's spiritual, metaphysical, political, and personal reflections are preserved as his statements, while claims about extraterrestrials, time travel, hell, world politics, and religious belief are not independently verified. Singing, Military Cadence, and Service to Wounded Warriors Blake spends a major portion of the early episode reflecting on his lifelong connection to singing. He traces that gift back to his Army service beginning in 1982, when he sang cadence during infantry training and later carried that love of music into karaoke, church choir, and personal practice. He describes singing for wounded warriors at the Warrior and Family Support Center on Fort Sam Houston as one of the best things he has done, recalling how he brought equipment, performed during lunch gatherings, and used music as a quiet form of service, encouragement, and praise. The Sun, Spirit, Hell, and the Recorded Life The episode then moves into Blake's metaphysical view of the sun, spirit, death, and afterlife judgment. He describes human beings as spirits in material bodies, says every second of life is recorded, and presents dreams as times when the spirit leaves the body and travels into “dream land.” Blake also gives an intense description of hell or purgatory as a temporary place of painful rehabilitation for deeply harmful people, while emphasizing that the Creator is ultimately merciful and that souls continue their journey after correction. Creation, Extraterrestrials, and the Universe of Many Beings Blake expands his reflections into a cosmology that includes the Big Bang, a male-and-female Creator, four forces of the universe, and thousands of extraterrestrial civilizations. He describes many types of beings — humanoids, greys, beings of light, hermaphroditic beings, and advanced races from other planets and galaxies — and frames Earth as a young species being helped by older souls and more advanced civilizations. He also suggests that some billionaires and powerful people may be younger souls who make life difficult for others on this planet. Time Travel, Living Spacecraft, and Parallel Reality The central teaching comes from Blake's Toastmasters speech on time travel. He describes extraterrestrial spacecraft as living entities, possibly made from plant matter, crystalline structure, and other materials, piloted through consciousness and advanced mind-machine interaction. Blake says some beings can accelerate close to the speed of light, harness universal energy, and transition into a parallel or spiritual universe where time can be traveled as a location or trail. In his explanation, travelers re-enter the physical universe at a chosen point in history, then return by riding the parallel-universe path forward while avoiding the danger of returning to the same place and time as their earlier selves. Thiaoouba, Guardianship, Nuclear Danger, and Free Will Blake also discusses extraterrestrials from Thiaoouba, describing them as nine-foot-tall hermaphroditic guardians who have interacted with Earth for thousands of years and are represented, in his view, by the statues on Easter Island. He presents advanced civilizations as responsible for helping lower civilizations, but says they cannot override human free will except in rare moments of crisis or divine intervention. This leads into his warning about nuclear weapons, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and the possibility that civilizations must suffer consequences if they choose self-destruction rather than peaceful cooperation. Prayer, Peace, Palestine, Iran, and the Human Family The final section turns toward peace, prayer, and human dignity. Blake argues that Earth is a difficult school for the soul, but that people can still make the world better by loving one another, respecting human life, and praying for others. He speaks emotionally about Palestine, Israel, October 7th, Iran, war, innocent civilians, Trump, political division, and the inability of nations to talk through conflict. He closes by calling on “prayer warriors” to pray for the world, asking the Creator to help humanity survive, continue its soul evolution, and learn to love each other more fully.

The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) Time Travel, Soul Evolution, and the Prayer That Can Change the World Reverend Blake Rubie reflects on singing, service, extraterrestrials, time travel, afterlife judgment, world conflict, prayer, and the soul's journey, urging listeners to love one another, respect the human family, and help guide Earth toward peace. Everyday Life, Date Night, and Toastmasters In this episode of The Church of the Soul's Evolution, Reverend Blake Rubie opens with a personal update from San Antonio, mentioning the weather, a movie date night with his wife, and their new Friday-night routine of going out together. He also discusses attending a Toastmasters meeting that morning, where he gave a short speech he later expands on during the broadcast. The corrected transcript notes that Blake's spiritual, metaphysical, political, and personal reflections are preserved as his statements, while claims about extraterrestrials, time travel, hell, world politics, and religious belief are not independently verified. Singing, Military Cadence, and Service to Wounded Warriors Blake spends a major portion of the early episode reflecting on his lifelong connection to singing. He traces that gift back to his Army service beginning in 1982, when he sang cadence during infantry training and later carried that love of music into karaoke, church choir, and personal practice. He describes singing for wounded warriors at the Warrior and Family Support Center on Fort Sam Houston as one of the best things he has done, recalling how he brought equipment, performed during lunch gatherings, and used music as a quiet form of service, encouragement, and praise. The Sun, Spirit, Hell, and the Recorded Life The episode then moves into Blake's metaphysical view of the sun, spirit, death, and afterlife judgment. He describes human beings as spirits in material bodies, says every second of life is recorded, and presents dreams as times when the spirit leaves the body and travels into “dream land.” Blake also gives an intense description of hell or purgatory as a temporary place of painful rehabilitation for deeply harmful people, while emphasizing that the Creator is ultimately merciful and that souls continue their journey after correction. Creation, Extraterrestrials, and the Universe of Many Beings Blake expands his reflections into a cosmology that includes the Big Bang, a male-and-female Creator, four forces of the universe, and thousands of extraterrestrial civilizations. He describes many types of beings — humanoids, greys, beings of light, hermaphroditic beings, and advanced races from other planets and galaxies — and frames Earth as a young species being helped by older souls and more advanced civilizations. He also suggests that some billionaires and powerful people may be younger souls who make life difficult for others on this planet. Time Travel, Living Spacecraft, and Parallel Reality The central teaching comes from Blake's Toastmasters speech on time travel. He describes extraterrestrial spacecraft as living entities, possibly made from plant matter, crystalline structure, and other materials, piloted through consciousness and advanced mind-machine interaction. Blake says some beings can accelerate close to the speed of light, harness universal energy, and transition into a parallel or spiritual universe where time can be traveled as a location or trail. In his explanation, travelers re-enter the physical universe at a chosen point in history, then return by riding the parallel-universe path forward while avoiding the danger of returning to the same place and time as their earlier selves. Thiaoouba, Guardianship, Nuclear Danger, and Free Will Blake also discusses extraterrestrials from Thiaoouba, describing them as nine-foot-tall hermaphroditic guardians who have interacted with Earth for thousands of years and are represented, in his view, by the statues on Easter Island. He presents advanced civilizations as responsible for helping lower civilizations, but says they cannot override human free will except in rare moments of crisis or divine intervention. This leads into his warning about nuclear weapons, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and the possibility that civilizations must suffer consequences if they choose self-destruction rather than peaceful cooperation. Prayer, Peace, Palestine, Iran, and the Human Family The final section turns toward peace, prayer, and human dignity. Blake argues that Earth is a difficult school for the soul, but that people can still make the world better by loving one another, respecting human life, and praying for others. He speaks emotionally about Palestine, Israel, October 7th, Iran, war, innocent civilians, Trump, political division, and the inability of nations to talk through conflict. He closes by calling on “prayer warriors” to pray for the world, asking the Creator to help humanity survive, continue its soul evolution, and learn to love each other more fully.

[29:10] Sometimes all it takes is one invitation. In this episode, Greg Gazin talks with 16-year-old Runfeng Bruce Yu, whose first Toastmasters experience inspired him to help other young people discover the confidence and encouragement that changed his own life. What began with a single club visit soon grew into a remarkable leadership journey. Bruce went on to charter the Sea Dragons Gavel Club, creating a supportive environment where students could grow as communicators and leaders. Along the way, he discovered that creating a welcoming community was every bit as important as helping members become better speakers.Bruce also shares the unexpected challenges of launching a student-led Gavel Club, the creative ways he earned credibility and attracted support, and the leadership lessons he learned along the way. Whether you're looking to strengthen your own club, encourage younger members, or simply enjoy hearing how one person can make a difference, Bruce's story is an inspiring reminder that leadership often begins with a single invitation.Listeners will also hear...Why Bruce believes creating a sense of community comes before building communication skills.How storytelling helped students understand what makes Toastmasters different from traditional speech and debate.What Bruce did when some adult Toastmasters questioned whether his Gavel Club was real, including reaching out to Past International President Richard E. Peck and World Champion Mark Brown for help.How partnerships with Rotary created new leadership and service opportunities for students.Why volunteers from around the world now help support the Sea Dragons Gavel Club.Bruce's advice for Toastmasters clubs hoping to attract more young people.How one invitation ultimately inspired Bruce to create the same life-changing experience for others.Bruce Yu's article, "From Inspiration to Action: Discovering Toastmasters launched my student journey into the program, “ can be found in the August 2026 issue of Toastmaster magazine.About Bruce YuBruce Runfeng Yu is a high school student and Charter President of the Sea Dragons Gavel Club, a student-led Gavel Club in China with an international reach. He serves on the Youth Advisory Board at Erika's Lighthouse, contributing to youth mental health initiatives, and advocates for youth participation through the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth. Passionate about expanding educational opportunities, Bruce is committed to helping young people develop the confidence and leadership skills to make a positive impact in their communities.Bruce lives in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China and can be reached through his club's website: https://seadragonsgavel.org/ or his personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/runfengbruceyu/ or Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/runfengbruceyu/Find out more about Gavel Clubs.References: Supplied by Bruce YuOur club's:Website: https://seadragonsgavel.org/Volunteer opportunities page (Idealist.org): seadragonsgavel.org/volunteerSpeech contests: https://seadragonsgavel.org/contests/Online educational session page: https://seadragonsgavel.org/resources/educational-sessions/History: https://seadragonsgavel.org/about-us/history/Causes: https://seadragonsgavel.org/about-us/causes/Linktree: seadragonsgavel.org/connectPromotional video by Richard E. Peck: https://youtu.be/RkZrbhReG1E?si=sE3ysww3mewETroXPromotional video by Mark Brown: https://youtu.be/e4tlpWN1Vzs?si=XexqUngMSjFnKbMY

What can global business, backpacking through unpredictable conditions, and a lifelong faith journey teach us about navigating life?In this episode of I Am Refocused Radio, Shemaiah Reed welcomes David Savage, a global energy executive with 31 years of sales and leadership experience. David shares memorable stories from international business, outdoor adventures, and moments that required him to adapt, solve problems, and accept circumstances beyond his control.With a background in Toastmasters, a natural gift for storytelling, and a sharp sense of humor, David brings practical wisdom to conversations about resilience, leadership, relationships, faith, and personal growth. He also reflects on the powerful lessons he has gathered from guests on his own podcast and how those stories continue to shape his perspective.This conversation is an honest and uplifting reminder that wisdom is often discovered through pressure, uncertainty, laughter, and the courage to keep moving forward.https://thesavagepath.com/

Carol and Rik Durling are teaching how it is to be a Toastmaster Speech Contest Chair!

In this episode, we welcome back our previous guest, Lidia, from Spain. Lidia first joined us on the show a year and a half ago, and since then her life has evolved in many exciting ways, including getting married earlier this year. During this conversation, Lidia shares her journey with the Ngāmotu Breakfast Toastmasters Club, reflecting on the skills she has developed, the confidence and connections she has gained, and some memorable anecdotes along the way. She also explains how Toastmasters works and why it has been such a rewarding experience

The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) From Army Roads to Soul Evolution: Service, Sacrifice, Reincarnation, and the Power of Prayer Spiritual Seeking, Public Speaking, and the Soul's Journey In this episode of The Church of the Soul's Evolution, host Reverend Blake Rubie opens by introducing the show as a place where he talks about spirituality and truth-seeking. He references his book The Grey Brain and the Golden Soul, explaining his belief that the physical brain relates to the body while the soul relates to the spirit. From there, he connects his radio work to public speaking, music, Toastmasters, and the value of learning to speak clearly and confidently over time. Toastmasters, Venezuela, and a Life of Service Reverend Blake reflects on his long relationship with Toastmasters and public speaking, tracing it back to his time in Cleveland and then into his Army assignment in Caracas, Venezuela. He describes serving in the military group there, improving his Spanish by speaking with local security guards, and remembering the poverty and gratitude he saw among Venezuelan people. He presents this period as both a professional and personal learning experience, shaped by language, faith, human connection, and awareness of economic hardship. Civilian Army Work, San Antonio, and a 44-Year Career The episode then follows Blake's transition from active-duty Army service into contractor and civilian work. He describes receiving a job opportunity through Rosemary and Tom Levitt, working under Army Installation Management Command, moving through contract changes involving Booz Allen Hamilton and Calibre, and eventually relocating to San Antonio when the organization moved from Crystal City, Virginia. He recounts working in operations, worldwide individual augmentation systems, and Army databases until his retirement, totaling almost 44 years of service connected to the Army. Family History, Immigration, Martial Arts, and Military Formation Blake looks back at his parents' lives, including his father's British Army service in World War II, his mother's experience during the bombing of London, their migration to Canada, and the family's later move to Guadalajara, Mexico. He then recounts his own early adulthood in San Diego, college studies, philosophy, martial arts, and work as a bellman before joining the Army in 1982. His military path includes infantry training, Germany, Fort Polk, Korea, Bowling Green State University ROTC, and the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, where he studied Turkish and led a competitive Army running team. Leadership, Language School, and Personal Achievement A major portion of the episode centers on Blake's pride in physical training, leadership, and military achievement. He describes leading a run team at Monterey, training hard, winning a large trophy five times, and recording a fast team time. He then discusses his Turkish language studies, passing the Defense Language Proficiency Test, attending the basic non-commissioned officer course at Fort Benjamin Harrison, and winning the honor graduate, distinguished leader, and Iron Man awards. These stories emphasize discipline, competitiveness, perseverance, and the pride his parents felt in his accomplishments. Kidney Donation, His Son's Trials, and the Gift of Life The most personal section concerns Blake's son, who was born with underdeveloped kidneys and eventually needed dialysis and transplantation. Blake explains that he received a compassionate reassignment, moved to the Presidio of San Francisco, and donated one of his kidneys to his son at Stanford University Children's Hospital in March 1995. He describes the physical effects of that old-style surgery, the scar, later disability issues, and the lifestyle changes it required. He strongly encourages kidney donation as a gift of life while also urging people to research how it may change them, and he mentions his son's book Finding Faith Through Dialysis as a resource for people facing similar trials. Reincarnation, Prayer, Afterlife Beliefs, and the Creator The final portion turns fully toward Reverend Blake's spiritual teachings. He presents his belief that human beings are co-creator gods in the making, moving through reincarnation across planets and lives toward eventual spiritual creation and union. He rejects eternal damnation, describing hell as temporary spiritual rehabilitation, and speaks intensely about suicide, prayer for souls, universal law, and the power of praying for others. The episode closes with Blake teaching that “a man will prey on man until man learns to pray for man,” then offering a prayer directly to the Creator of the universe, asking for blessing, help, love, and divine will for all children of Earth.

The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) From Army Roads to Soul Evolution: Service, Sacrifice, Reincarnation, and the Power of Prayer Spiritual Seeking, Public Speaking, and the Soul's Journey In this episode of The Church of the Soul's Evolution, host Reverend Blake Rubie opens by introducing the show as a place where he talks about spirituality and truth-seeking. He references his book The Grey Brain and the Golden Soul, explaining his belief that the physical brain relates to the body while the soul relates to the spirit. From there, he connects his radio work to public speaking, music, Toastmasters, and the value of learning to speak clearly and confidently over time. Toastmasters, Venezuela, and a Life of Service Reverend Blake reflects on his long relationship with Toastmasters and public speaking, tracing it back to his time in Cleveland and then into his Army assignment in Caracas, Venezuela. He describes serving in the military group there, improving his Spanish by speaking with local security guards, and remembering the poverty and gratitude he saw among Venezuelan people. He presents this period as both a professional and personal learning experience, shaped by language, faith, human connection, and awareness of economic hardship. Civilian Army Work, San Antonio, and a 44-Year Career The episode then follows Blake's transition from active-duty Army service into contractor and civilian work. He describes receiving a job opportunity through Rosemary and Tom Levitt, working under Army Installation Management Command, moving through contract changes involving Booz Allen Hamilton and Calibre, and eventually relocating to San Antonio when the organization moved from Crystal City, Virginia. He recounts working in operations, worldwide individual augmentation systems, and Army databases until his retirement, totaling almost 44 years of service connected to the Army. Family History, Immigration, Martial Arts, and Military Formation Blake looks back at his parents' lives, including his father's British Army service in World War II, his mother's experience during the bombing of London, their migration to Canada, and the family's later move to Guadalajara, Mexico. He then recounts his own early adulthood in San Diego, college studies, philosophy, martial arts, and work as a bellman before joining the Army in 1982. His military path includes infantry training, Germany, Fort Polk, Korea, Bowling Green State University ROTC, and the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, where he studied Turkish and led a competitive Army running team. Leadership, Language School, and Personal Achievement A major portion of the episode centers on Blake's pride in physical training, leadership, and military achievement. He describes leading a run team at Monterey, training hard, winning a large trophy five times, and recording a fast team time. He then discusses his Turkish language studies, passing the Defense Language Proficiency Test, attending the basic non-commissioned officer course at Fort Benjamin Harrison, and winning the honor graduate, distinguished leader, and Iron Man awards. These stories emphasize discipline, competitiveness, perseverance, and the pride his parents felt in his accomplishments. Kidney Donation, His Son's Trials, and the Gift of Life The most personal section concerns Blake's son, who was born with underdeveloped kidneys and eventually needed dialysis and transplantation. Blake explains that he received a compassionate reassignment, moved to the Presidio of San Francisco, and donated one of his kidneys to his son at Stanford University Children's Hospital in March 1995. He describes the physical effects of that old-style surgery, the scar, later disability issues, and the lifestyle changes it required. He strongly encourages kidney donation as a gift of life while also urging people to research how it may change them, and he mentions his son's book Finding Faith Through Dialysis as a resource for people facing similar trials. Reincarnation, Prayer, Afterlife Beliefs, and the Creator The final portion turns fully toward Reverend Blake's spiritual teachings. He presents his belief that human beings are co-creator gods in the making, moving through reincarnation across planets and lives toward eventual spiritual creation and union. He rejects eternal damnation, describing hell as temporary spiritual rehabilitation, and speaks intensely about suicide, prayer for souls, universal law, and the power of praying for others. The episode closes with Blake teaching that “a man will prey on man until man learns to pray for man,” then offering a prayer directly to the Creator of the universe, asking for blessing, help, love, and divine will for all children of Earth.

[28:45] Some of life's best lessons come from the most unexpected places, even an animated fish. In this episode, Suneet Singh shares how an unlikely source of inspiration, Pixar's Finding Nemo, helped transform his club's approach to growth. Together, we explore the story behind the journey, the lessons learned along the way, and how one unexpected idea led to remarkable results.The conversation goes well beyond membership growth. Suneet shares how curiosity, fresh thinking, and a willingness to challenge assumptions helped shape the club's culture and create an experience that people wanted to return to. Whether you're looking to strengthen your club, inspire your members, or simply see your club through a different lens, you'll come away with ideas worth exploring.Listeners will also hear...Why Finding Nemo became an unlikely blueprint for club growth.The one question that changed everything for the club.How one courageous Table Topics speaker inspired Suneet's own Toastmasters journey.Why asking better questions often leads to better learning.A simple networking idea Suneet calls the "multiplier effect."What every club can learn about finding its own identity.Be sure to read Suneet's accompanying Toastmaster magazine article, How Nemo Inspired Us to Grow Our Membership, or, if you're reading the PDF edition, A Wave of Success: How Our Club Doubled Its Membership, in the July 2026 issue.About SuneetSuneet Singh, CPA, MBA, is a finance and accounting leader with more than a decade of experience across the financial services and software industries. A Toastmaster for five years, he is the Immediate Past President of ART Advanced Royal Toastmasters, an online club based in Toronto, and has also served as a Toastmasters Area Director. He continues to develop as a communicator and leader.Suneet lives in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, and can be reached at sp1.suneet@gmail.com.For more information about ART Advanced Royal Toastmasters (ART), or to arrange a club visit, email arttoastmasters@gmail.com. (Meetings: Wednesdays 12:00-1 Eastern)If you haven't already done so, watch or rewatch Pixar's Finding Nemo. You may find yourself seeing it through a whole new lens.

It's the start of the month and I'm excited to share July's Big Three with you.  I'm ready to shake things up, try something new, and ramp up my creative energy.  I'm sharing how June went out with a bang and how Toastmasters inspired the card of the week.  You don't want to miss this episode!

In 1988, Mark Dorrity went for a run on a 35-degree day in regional New South Wales. He was leading the race when severe heat stroke caused his body to shut down.Mark spent 70 days unconscious in intensive care. He lost most of the muscle in his body, underwent a high-level leg amputation and was given little certainty about what life after hospital could look like.But this is not simply a story about survival.In this episode of ListenABLE, Mark joins Dylan Alcott and Angus O'Loughlin to share how he rebuilt his life from the ground up. From learning to stand again, returning to full-time work and confronting inaccessible public spaces, to retraining his brain through Toastmasters decades later, Mark's story is a powerful lesson in resilience, neuroplasticity and choosing to keep moving forward.Mark also reflects on how far disability access and inclusion have come in Australia since the late 1980s, why accessible parking matters far more than people realise, and why he refuses to live with regret.What happened when Mark collapsed from severe heat stroke during an eight-kilometre raceWaking up in intensive care 70 days laterThe moment Mark learned his leg had been amputatedRebuilding strength after losing most of his muscle massReturning to work after a life-changing injuryLiving with a high-level amputation and why a prosthesis was not sustainable for MarkHow disability access and inclusion have changed since the late 1980sThe reality behind accessible parking and public spacesNeuroplasticity, Toastmasters and retraining the brain later in lifeWhy resilience is not about avoiding difficulty, but choosing to keep showing up00:00 The moment Mark's life changed01:31 A race, extreme heat and collapsing near the finish line04:35 Waking up 70 days later in intensive care07:14 The decision to amputate or let Mark die09:48 Accepting a new reality immediately11:10 Learning how to live again after intensive care13:06 Seeing his story on the front page of the newspaper14:55 Why a wheelchair was not practical for Mark16:39 The first time using a walking frame in public18:11 Where Mark's resilience came from19:02 What disability access was like in Australia in the late 1980s21:42 How Mark views disability today24:59 Prosthetics, pain and adapting to life without one27:05 Returning to full-time work27:46 Cognitive recovery, speech and Toastmasters30:20 Neuroplasticity and retraining the brain32:08 Seeing his body after amputation33:25 Would Mark warn himself before the race?34:50 Mark's message on risk, resilience and living fullyMark Dorrity, heat stroke survivor, amputation recovery, high-level amputation, disability podcast Australia, disability inclusion, accessibility Australia, neuroplasticity, resilience story, life after amputation, Dylan Alcott podcast, ListenABLE podcast, disability advocacy, rehabilitation journey, Toastmasters recovery

[27:53] Sometimes the opportunities that shape our lives arrive when we least expect them. In this special episode of ToastCaster, I share a recording of the opening keynote I delivered at the Toastmasters District 99 year-end leadership celebration. While the audience that day was made up of Toastmasters leaders, the message reaches far beyond Toastmasters. It's a story about unexpected opportunities, personal growth, and how a single decision can change the direction of your life. Looking back, I never set out to become a leader. In fact, if someone had told me years ago that I'd one day lead a Toastmasters district, host podcasts, write books, or emcee a TEDx event, I would have laughed. None of it was part of a grand plan. It all began with what I call a series of "accidents"—unexpected conversations, invitations, and opportunities that encouraged me to say "yes." In this keynote, I reflect on those moments, the people who influenced my journey, and the lessons I learned along the way. More importantly, I explore how leadership isn't always about titles or positions. Often, it's about being willing to step forward when opportunity knocks and helping others succeed along the way. Whether you're leading a team, volunteering in your community, building a business, or simply wondering what your next chapter might hold, I hope this story encourages you to recognize the unexpected opportunities that may already be waiting for you. In this episode you'll discover: Why I describe myself as an "accidental leader." How one unexpected invitation changed the course of my life. The surprising opportunities that grew from simply saying "yes." The leadership lessons I learned through both success and adversity. Why asking for help became one of my greatest strengths. How my podcasting journey began as a High Performance Leadership project. Why leadership is ultimately about helping others shine. A challenge to reflect on the opportunities that may be shaping your own future. Thank you for listening to ToastCaster. If this episode resonates with you, I'd love to hear about one unexpected opportunity that helped shape your own journey. Toastmasters Podcast #300: Reflecting Back on 300 Episodes and the Power of Conversation Reflecting Back: How a Simple Podcasting Project Developed into an Incredible Journey (Toastmaster magazine, June 2026) Toastmasters Podcast #302: Your Club's Secret Ingredient – The Immediate Past President The Neighbour Who Helped Build the Paralympic Movement 

[31:52] What happens after the gavel changes hands? In this episode Greg Gazin speaks with Distinguished Toastmaster António Mendes about one of Toastmasters' most overlooked leadership roles: the Immediate Past President (IPP). Drawing on his experience serving as club president and Immediate Past President four times, António shares why this role may continue to influence a club long after a leadership transition.António shares how what began as a search for stronger business pitches eventually became a 12-year Toastmasters journey that continues today.You'll also hear how encouraging newer Toastmaster Ana Natário to step into leadership helped shape António's thinking about the IPP role. Watching her grow as club president and later continue supporting the club as Immediate Past President showed him how leadership continuity, encouragement, and a strong club culture can create lasting impact long after a term ends. That experience became one of the strongest examples behind his belief in the value of an engaged IPP.Listeners will also hear:• Why António believes leadership does not end when a presidency ends• Why he compares the IPP to an airbag• What it means to be a bridge between past and future leadership• How supporting newer Toastmaster Ana Natário helped reinforce his view of the role• Why a formal handover meeting can help set new officers up for success• How clubs can preserve traditions while remaining open to changeYou can read António's article, The Unsung Hero of Toastmasters: Discover the Value the Immediate Past President Can Provide a Club in the July 2026 issue of Toastmaster magazine.About António MendesAntónio Mendes, DTM, has been a Toastmaster for 12 years and currently serves as Immediate Past President of Setúbal Toastmasters Club in Portugal. Over a 46-year career in technology, he worked as an IT manager, consultant, entrepreneur, and business leader and now advises organizations on cloud, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. He has served in multiple club and district leadership roles and helped establish and revive clubs while sharing ideas to help clubs grow and strengthen member engagement.António Mendes lives in Setúbal, Portugal and can be reached via e-mail: mendes.ajs [at] gmail [dot] com, Instagram: @mendes.ajs, Facebook: mendes.ajsLinkedIn: ajsmendes.

In our 53rd episode, we talk with  Peter Swan of Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA, formerly of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.  Peter has been in Toastmasters since 2015 and has completed the Presentation Mastery and Dynamic Leadership Paths and is currently working in two Paths, Motivational Strategies and Effective Coaching.In this episode, we discuss:Pathfinder AwardLeadershipCommunication and Leadership ConferencePeter Swan can be contacted via Email ~ Pswan175@gmail.comThis podcast episode is sponsored by our 2024-2026 Calendar Year Sponsor District 31 Toastmasters ~ serving Rhode Island, Eastern Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine,  in the USA, and the Canadian Maritime Provinces in Canada.  District 31 (“D31”) helps toastmasters become better Communicators, and Leaders.  Learn how D31 Toastmasters can help you become a more powerful speaker and impactful leader by visiting district31.org/talkingtoastmasters.

Rosa Hart sits down with Louisville keynote speaker and confidence curator Chris Fulkerson to talk about personal reinvention, empowering women, and the "F Words to Live By" framework she teaches across the country.In this episode:How Barbie birthday parties became a symbol of joy and resilience after profound personal lossThe journey from image consulting (closets, fashion shows, feng shui!) to full-time keynote speakingWhy dressing women on the outside can't work if they're not supported on the insideThe "F Words to Live By": Food, Fashion, Fitness, Fun & FriendshipA moving story from a Dress for Success Louisville fashion show that illustrates the power of community and saying yes to yourselfHow Toastmasters and the National Speakers Association transformed Chris's speaking careerDress for Success Louisville's work — including outreach to teachers and rural countiesTimestamps:1:17 – Meeting through Toastmasters & NSA Louisville1:38 – The Barbie birthday party origin story2:17 – Grief and the mindset shift behind the parties7:00 – Goal: a 100th Barbie party11:17 – What image consulting really involves14:45 – The mission: women saying yes to themselves17:00 – The F Words to Live By framework20:40 – Self-care is not selfish22:35 – Breaking cycles of self-sacrifice for our kids26:00 – Toastmasters & NSA journey30:20 – The power of storytelling36:38 – What Chris's business looks like today38:00 – Dress for Success: "Turning Over a New Leaf" story44:14 – Dress for Success mobile outreach46:07 – How to book Chris47:05 – Wags Pet Therapy & dog fashion show49:59 – OutroFind Chris: fwordstoliveby.comInstagram: @chris_fulkersonThe Lou Review podcast highlights powerful conversations around business, branding, entrepreneurship, and community stories from Louisville and beyond.We feature inspiring founders, creatives, and leaders sharing real insights, growth strategies, and behind-the-scenes journeys.Topics Covered:- Business Growth & Marketing- Branding & Creative Strategy- Entrepreneurship & Startups- Local Louisville Stories & CultureSubscribe for weekly podcast episodes and real conversations that matter.Learn more about The Lou Review Foundation Inc at LouReview.comConnect with host, Rosa Hart on Instagram: @RosaRaves

In this episode, I sit down with Dominique "Dom" Brightmon, distinguished Toastmaster, certified Maxwell Leadership trainer, bestselling author, and host of the Going North Podcast. Dom shares his inspiring journey from discovering his voice as a teenager in church to becoming a respected speaker, author, and podcast host with more than 1,000 episodes under his belt. Along the way, he reveals how mentorship, personal growth, and a commitment to serving others helped shape his path.    In this episode, we discuss: How Dom discovered his purpose through public speaking and service The role Toastmasters played in developing his confidence and leadership skills Why self-leadership is the foundation for leading others effectively The Three E's of self-leadership: Examination, Execution, and Energy How personal setbacks can become catalysts for growth and transformation The importance of surrounding yourself with people who inspire and challenge you Why encouraging others can help you reconnect with your own sense of purpose   No matter where you are on your journey, remember that your purpose is not something you have to chase. It is something you can uncover by leading yourself well, staying open to growth, and taking the next step forward with courage.    About Dom: Dominique “Dom” Brightmon, DTM, is a certified trainer with the Maxwell Leadership Team, bestselling author, and host of the Going North Podcast, a podcast committed to featuring authors from around the world to promote the power of the written word and inspire listeners to publish books of their own. His mantra is Advance others to advance yourself. https://www.dombrightmon.com/ ----- Connect with Candice Snyder! Website: https://www.podpage.com/passion-purpose-and-possibilities-1/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candicebsnyder?_rdr Passion, Purpose, and Possibilities Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/passionpurposeandpossibilitiescommunity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passionpurposepossibilities/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicesnyder/ Shop For A Cause With Gifts That Give Back to Nonprofits: https://thekindnesscause.com/ Go to FusionaryFormulas.com and use code PASSION at checkout for 15% off your first order.  Fall In Love With Artists And Experience Joy And Calm: https://www.youtube.com/@movenartrelaxation

[18:39] The countdown is on for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention taking place August 19 to 22, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. In this annual convention preview episode, Greg Gazin speaks with Convention Host Co-Chairs Carole Murphy and Tom Jones for an early look at what attendees can expect and to learn more about the volunteers and leaders helping bring Toastmasters' largest event to life.You'll get to know Carole and Tom as they share how they unexpectedly received the invitation to serve, what their role as co-chairs involves, and how their different personalities and leadership styles complement one another and what they've learned along the way. You'll also hear why Vancouver, often called Hollywood North, continues to be a favourite convention destination and the meaning behind this year's convention theme: Wide Open Communication.Highlights this year include keynote speaker Jody Carrington and 2026 Golden Gavel honouree Jennifer Moss presenting Why Are We Here? Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants.You'll also hear about some of the convention activities, including:• Traditional opening ceremonies and the Parade of Flags• Semifinals and finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking• Accredited Speaker presentation and business meeting• First-timers activities and networking opportunities• Smedley Harbour Cruise and Smedley Fun Bingo evening events• Education sessions and Toastmasters Journey workshops including a new AI-focused session designed to help attract prospective members...and more!About:Carole Murphy, DTM, has been a Toastmaster for 31 years and serves as Convention Co-Chair for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention.Tom Jones, DTM, is a Past International Director, entrepreneur, management consultant, and Convention Co-Chair for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention.REGISTER NOWConvention details, agenda, volunteer opportunities, and Dear Boss resources.You can also read:1. Five Questions with Carole Murphy DTM and Tom Jones DTM: Behind the Scenes with the 2026 Convention Co-Chairs2. Wide-Open Communication: 2026 Convention: Head to Vancouver, Canada, for inspiration, education, and connection.Both articles appear in the June 2026 issue of Toastmaster Magazine.Related Episode:Episode #299: Championing Workplace Well-Being — Meet the 2026 Golden Gavel Recipient Jennifer Moss

Jessica talks with Chris Lele, an AI educator, learning strategist, writer, musician, and lifelong collector of difficult skills. He spent 20 years in test prep, creating thousands of SAT, GRE, and GMAT questions, publishing a bestselling vocabulary book, and reaching millions of students through YouTube. Today, he teaches professionals how to use generative AI without losing their originality, judgment, or voice. Chris is also a classical pianist, composer, Toastmasters speech competitor, fitness enthusiast, and occasional restaurant and bar performer. Whether teaching AI, playing Chopin, writing speeches, or explaining a brutal math problem, Chris is drawn to the art of making complexity come alive.Follow Chris:IG: @chris_on_the_keysYouTube: Ab-peggiosSpotify: The Tide BeneathApple Music: The Tide Beneath~About The Ampersand Manifesto:What happens when you refuse to choose just one path? On The Ampersand Manifesto, host Jessica Wan sits down with “the most interesting people at the dinner party” – those who have made their mark in two or more seemingly different worlds. Through candid conversations, we explore what it takes to navigate multiple callings, find the connection points between them, and redefine success on our own terms. Together, we're co-creating The Ampersand Manifesto: principles for leading a multi-passionate life.~About your host, Jessica Wan:Executive Coach | Classical Singer | Former Marketing Leader & Tech ExecutiveJessica helps founders and leaders make the invisible visible. With 20+ years of experience scaling brands like Apple, Smule, and the San Francisco Opera, and as an ICF-certified executive coach, she provides the clarity and strategy needed to lead bravely and find fulfillment in a multi-passionate life.Work with Jessica: Book a Free Intro CallJoin The Cohort: An Ampersand Community for Dual-Career ProfessionalsFollow the Journey: @ampersandmanifestoConnect: Jessica's LinkedInListen: Singing Excerpts~CreditsCo-produced and hosted by ⁠Jessica Wan⁠Co-produced, edited, sound design, and original music by ⁠Carlos Schmitt

In episode 251 of the Transition Drill Podcast, explores identity, resilience, and rebuilding after public scrutiny for veterans and first responders navigating career disruption, reputation loss, and life after service. You'll hear Kwesi Millington on what happens when one moment changes everything, and what it takes to rebuild purpose, identity, and a future when the career you expected disappears.Former RCMP officer and now resilience keynote speaker Kwesi Millington shares a story that starts far before policing and goes far beyond the incident that made international headlines.Raised in Toronto by a single mother after emigrating from Trinidad and Tobago, Kwesi describes a childhood that was ordinary by his standards. No clear career calling. No lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. He moved through school, completed a Bachelor of Commerce with a focus in finance, worked office and government jobs, and felt disconnected from the life he imagined for himself. Then one moment changed direction. Watching a police officer while walking a strike line, he realized he wanted work that put him outside, serving people and doing something that felt meaningful.That decision led him into the RCMP. He trained in Regina, Saskatchewan, entered frontline policing in British Columbia, and expected to build a long career. Instead, only a few years into service, a call at Vancouver International Airport became the defining event of his life. Kwesi walks through that night, the death that followed, the public reaction, the viral footage, internal conflict, investigations, public inquiry, and the long legal aftermath that eventually ended his policing career.But this conversation doesn't stop there.Kwesi talks openly about moral injury, accountability, identity collapse, incarceration, and the reality of trying to re-enter society carrying a criminal record and public history. He reflects on the jobs that never called back, rebuilding through personal training, and discovering that growth sometimes starts where status ends.What emerged next wasn't a return to who he was. Through fitness, Toastmasters, communication, and years of rebuilding, Kwesi found a different mission. Today he speaks to audiences on resilience, mindset, accountability, and navigating life after adversity.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND Collective: Premium, veteran-owned sportswear built for those who show up, outwork the excuses, and give 100%. Score 15% off your order at thegrndcollective.com using promo code TRANSITION15 at checkoutBlue Line Roasting: Premium, law-enforcement-owned coffee roasted to fuel the shift. A portion of every order directly supports law enforcement families facing line-of-duty injury or loss. Save 10% at bluelineroasting.com with promo code Transition10Frontline Optics: Premium eyewear founded by a firefighter and built to withstand the job. Every single purchase helps support the First Responders Children's Foundation, serving families who've paid the ultimate price. Save 10% off your pair at frontlineoptics.com using promo code Transition10

FILM FEST TIX: https://buytickets.at/thedopeyfoundation/2216905 FULL EPISODE: www.patreon.com/dopeypodcast Long Summary Dave welcomes Heart Attack Doug back to Dopey Tuesday on his birthday, though he's not exactly feeling celebratory after waking up groggy from NyQuil and discovering that his daughter forgot it was his birthday. Doug immediately notices Dave's low energy, launching a conversation about birthday expectations and disappointments. The bulk of the opening centers around a heated debate about the season finale of Euphoria. Dave argues that the show abandoned its core characters and became an entirely different series, while Doug enthusiastically defends it and praises the acting. The two argue over Nate's storyline, Rue's fate, Ali's character arc, and whether the show has any future after its finale. The conversation shifts into prison talk when Montana's latest letter arrives from a Texas prison. Montana shares updates about college classes, Toastmasters, prison job training officers, losing his dog, and staying sober. This leads Doug to speculate about how Dave would survive prison, suggesting he'd either join a gang or become part of a strange collection of intellectuals, misfits, and recovery people. Dave insists he'd survive through entertainment value and his connection to recovery. Dave also reflects on a recent doctor's appointment and how grateful he is not to be regularly drug tested anymore. The conversation spirals into stories about fake urine, the Wizinator, and the absurd lengths addicts go to avoid failing drug tests. The guys read Patreon and Spotify comments, discuss the upcoming Dopey Short Film Festival, promote Patreon, and eventually prepare to reveal the results of the Dopey Sticker Contest. JOIN PATREON FOR THE CONTEST! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mohnish Pabrai's Q&A session with Dakshana scholars at the JNV Bangalore Urban, Karnataka, India on December 25, 2025.                        (00:00:00) - Introduction (00:00:31) - Charlie Munger's mental models (00:05:40) - The Karam Yogi model; Mukesh Ambani & Jio (00:09:45) - Books: Time travel for entrepreneurs (00:12:01) - The Founders Podcast (00:16:01) - Giving back through Dakshana (00:20:29) - Upanishads: Your deepest desire is your destiny (00:24:13) - Building Dakshana: Cloned from the Super 30 model (00:33:32) - Follow your passion, success follows naturally (00:35:10) - With hard work think smart (00:36:42) - Clone smartly, compete confidently (00:39:05) - Technology is overrated, follow your passion (00:42:48) - Growth begins outside comfort zone; Toastmasters (00:46:25) - Cloning Dakshana from Super 30; Anand Kumar (00:50:36) - Human reciprocation mental model (00:57:28) - Execution and determination make the idea successful (01:00:29) - Life's reverses; Charlie's No self-pity mode The contents of this audio are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and do not purport to be, and are not intended to be financial, legal, accounting, tax, or investment advice. Investments or strategies that are discussed may not be suitable for you, do not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation, or needs, and are not intended to provide investment advice or recommendations appropriate for you. Before making any investment or trade, consider whether it is suitable for you and consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment adviser.

[47:36] What happens when 20 years and hundreds of conversations change the way you communicate, listen, and tell stories? In this special milestone episode, guest host Ryan Levesque turns the microphone around on Greg Gazin to reflect on the journey behind The Toastmasters Podcast, ToastCaster, and the lessons learned along the way.From launching a podcast as a Toastmasters High Performance Leadership project in 2006 to becoming host and producer of The Toastmasters Podcast, Greg shares how podcasting transformed not only his communication skills, but also the way he approaches conversations, uncovers stories, and connects with people.Along the way, the conversation revisits unforgettable moments, including interviews that created vivid “movies in the mind,” emotional discussions that revealed the human side of leadership, and the unexpected lessons that emerged from hundreds of conversations inside and outside Toastmasters.Greg also reflects on how his interviewing style evolved over time. What began as a focus on asking the “right” questions gradually became something else: learning to listen more carefully, follow curiosity, and help stories unfold naturally. The episode also includes a few behind-the-scenes stories, podcasting flubs, and some unexpected moments listeners likely will not see coming.Listeners will also hear…• How podcasting and Toastmasters helped supercharge Greg's communication skills• How Greg evolved from question asker to “story builder”• Why curiosity matters more than asking the “perfect” question• The conversation that literally gave Greg shivers while recording• A few memorable podcasting flubs and behind-the-scenes moments• The origin of Greg's “conversational runway” interviewing approach• Why some of the best podcast moments happen completely off-script• Lessons learned from guest and former co-hostSome of the most meaningful moments did not come from carefully planned questions. They came from unexpected turns, honest reflections, and the willingness to go a little deeper.And after hundreds of conversations, one lesson stands out above all: when people feel heard, remarkable stories often emerge.Greg's article, Reflecting Back: How a Simple Podcasting Project Developed into an Incredible Journey, appears in the June 2026 issue of the Toastmaster magazine. .Some additional episodes and resources mentioned in this conversation include:• #082 Introducing Greg Gazin - Newest Host of The Toastmasters Podcast • #084 Meet the 2014 World Champion of Public Speaking, Dananjaya Hettiarachchi • #100 Meet the 2015 World Champion of Public Speaking, Mohammed Qahtani• #104 Surviving Everest & the Nepali Earthquake with Sara Safari• #169 Vision Beyond Eyesight with Deborah McAlexander• #172 Confessions of a Podcast Host• #179 Finding Healing Through Service and Leadership with David Jones• #208 Don't Let Fear Hold You Back with Robert A. Navarez• #222 Enhance Your Presentation with Clown Presence - Don Colliver• #225 This is Us: Greg Gazin & Ryan Levesque - The Toastmasters Podcast• #250 500 Lunches with Strangers: Breaking Bread for Personal Growth • #266 Meet Lauren Parsons, 2024 Newest Accredited Speaker (Snack on Exercise)• #275 & #276 Better Conversations, 1 Question at a Time - Dr. Alison Wood Brooks (Part 1 & 2)• #267 Meet Maureen Zappala, 2024 Newest Accredited Speaker (Impostor Syndrome and “My Dot” • #294 Beyond 500 Lunches with Strangers: Lesson on Achieving Anything - Nick Bendel • #297 What Happens When Toastmasters Give Youth Voices a TEDx Stage with CeCe Espeut• #298 Spotting & Resolving Generative AI Pitfalls for Communicators with Joel Schwartzberg• TC056 Spanish Train: A Journey in Vocal Variety (ToastCaster)• TC150 The Hardest Speech You'll Ever Have to Give (ToastCaster)• YouTube: Spanish Train: A Journey in Vocal Variety (YouTube video)About Greg GazinGreg Gazin, DTM, is host and producer of The Toastmasters Podcast and creator of ToastCaster: Communication & Leadership Learning Lab. A 24-year Toastmaster, writer, speaker, and technology columnist, Greg has spent nearly two decades exploring communication, leadership, storytelling, and personal growth through podcasting.Greg is a Past District Governor and recipient of a Toastmasters International Presidential Citation. He is also a member of Spiritual Living Toastmasters in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Bil Lewis earned a Masters Degree in computer science at Indiana University in 1978, working in Integrated Development Environments and bioinformatics at Stanford, Tufts, MIT and Harvard.  He has taught at Stanford, Tufts, and MIT with a Sabbatical at L'ecole des Moines DuNanets. He is a Past District Governor for Toastmaster, an Eagle Scout, a Returned Peace Corps Officer, and an ecstatic graduate of Indiana University. Bil is talking today about his work in debugging.  Omniscient Debugging when the debugger knows everything. Bil is a frequent guest on Swimming Upstream and we fondly remember his touching interviews with the late Chief Justice Richard Guy of the Washington State Supreme Court . Bil turns his life around every few weeks, so keep watching, it will happen again soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of The Kash & Dash Show — Unscripted with Ted Kaasch and Owen Dashner is a little bit real estate, a little bit family life, and a whole lot of “this is why business is never as clean as people make it look online.”Ted and Owen talk Mother's Day, Father's Day traditions, dad memories, old business cards, garage sale chaos, Goodwill debates, and the random things that make you realize life moves way too fast.They also get into the real stuff: insurance sticker shock, commercial property expenses, car wash surprises, water heater costs, and the brutal reality that owning real estate is not always passive income. Sometimes it is just expensive problems wearing a cute little “investment property” hat.The Golden Nugget in this episode is simple: don't fake the rehab number. If you are an agent bringing a deal to an investor, your job is not to guess construction costs. Bring the ARV, bring the comps, bring what you can visibly see the property needs — but don't say it needs $20,000 in repairs when it is really a $50,000 problem. Bad numbers kill credibility and can blow up a deal fast. Ted and Owen also talk about public speaking, Toastmasters, improving as a presenter, and what it looks like when a speaker truly moves a room. Ted shares a personal moment about the passing of Kyle Loftus from 1320Video and the impact Kyle had on Omaha and beyond.If you enjoy the episode, subscribe, leave a review, and check out The Kash and Dash Show on YouTube. You can Join the Omaha REIA - https://omahareia.com/join-todayOmaha REIA on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/OmahaREIACheck out the National REIA - https://nationalreia.org/ Find Ted Kaasch at www.tedkaasch.com Owen Dashner on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/owen.dashner Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/odawg2424/ Red Ladder Property Solutions - www.sellmyhouseinomahafast.com Liquid Lending Solutions - www.liquidlendingsolutions.com Owen's Blogs - www.otowninvestor.com www.reiquicktips.com Propstream - https://trial.propstreampro.com/reianebraska/Timber Creek Virtual - https://timbercreekvirtual.com/services/MagicDoor - https://magicdoor.com/reia/...

Learn about how the partnership between Rotary and Toastmasters can benefit members of both organizations, Toastmaster and Rotarian Jeremy Weinglass.

[37:05] The Toastmasters International Golden Gavel is the prestigious annual award presented to an individual distinguished in the fields of leadership and communication. In this insightful and thought-provoking episode, Greg Gazin speaks with Jennifer Moss, award-winning author, workplace culture strategist, and the 2026 Golden Gavel Honoree. Jennifer shares personal stories and practical insights as the conversation explores communication, resilience, gratitude, workplace culture, and the evolving relationship people have with work in a rapidly changing world.Jennifer also reflects on the deeply personal experiences that shaped her work, including The Smile Epidemic, a gratitude project started by her husband during a serious health crisis that eventually spread to more than 100 countries. The experience reinforced Jennifer's belief in the power of gratitude, connection, and small behavioral shifts to positively influence people and organizations.Listeners will hear:• How Jennifer overcame intense fear before her first TEDx talk• Why preparation and subject mastery reduce speaking anxiety• Why conversational speaking can work better than memorizing scripts• How gratitude practices shaped Jennifer's work and leadership philosophy• What organizations often misunderstand about burnout and wellbeing• Why trust, fairness, and purpose drive engagement more than perks• Why communication and analytical thinking remain essential workplace skillsJennifer Moss is featured in the May 2026 issue of the Toastmaster magazine in Stephanie Darling's article, “Golden Gavel Recipient Jennifer Moss Champions Workplace Wellbeing.”Jennifer will receive the Golden Gavel award during the Toastmasters International Convention in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, August 19–22, 2026. The award presentation will take place Saturday, August 22 at 10 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time (UTC -7).Jennifer will also deliver a presentation based on her latest book, Why Are We Here? Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants, exploring hope, purpose, belonging, and psychological fitness in today's evolving workplace.TEDx Talk: The Epidemic of Smiles and the Science of Gratitude.About Jennifer Moss:Jennifer Moss is an award-winning international speaker, journalist, author, and workplace culture strategist. She is the author of Why Are We Here?, The Burnout Epidemic, and Unlocking Happiness at Work. Jennifer's research and insights have been featured in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Fortune. She is also co-host of the podcast How to Change Culture in 20 Minutes or Less.Jennifer Moss is from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada and can be reached at: Jennifer-Moss.com.Register here: for the Toastmasters International Convention.

The NORAPONG gives an inspirational speech as he accepts the 2026 Toastmaster of the Year for the Hawaii District.

In this solo episode, I talk about my experience with Toastmasters and how it shaped how I view public speaking. For technical professionals who speak to decision makers, this episode was made with you in mind. __TEACH THE GEEK (http://teachthegeek.com)Prefer video? Visit http://youtube.teachthegeek.comFollow @teachthegeek (Twitter) and @_teachthegeek_ (IG)Get Public Speaking Tips for STEM Professionals at http://teachthegeek.com/tips

Riding Shotgun With Charlie #252 Jason Schaller The Rogue Banshee, For the Love of Guns Podcast   I was able to catch up with Jason at SHOT Show 2026. He's been hard to catch up with to have on the show. He lives in Montana and I haven't made it there yet. Special thanks to Michael Schwartz (RSWC #153) for letting us use his stagecoach for the show.    Jason grew up outside of Philadelphia. His dad had him shooting by age 7, going from BB guns to .22 then to .357. When he turned 21, he bought a GLOCK 17 and joined the GSSF, GLOCK Shooting Sports Foundation. He got his father into the GSSF and they used to compete. When his father passed, he let it go by the wayside. Years later he was married, he bought his wife a gun and got her into the GSSF but it wasn't something that kept her interested so he kept going by himself. With time and age setting in, he's doing more steel challenge shooting.   For 10 years, Jason was a "kitchen table FFL". He was doing cerakoting for people, but he charged people to take the gun apart and reassemble it. It was easier for him to make a video taking the gun apart and sending his clients the video so they could disassemble and reassemble it. That's how his YouTube channel started. At one point, the ATF agent came in and told Jason he was selling 2.3 guns per day. The kitchen table activity was able to fund the channel.   With the YT channel, everything he does is educational. When things changed politically, he noticed more videos were being watched, particularly the 80% builds. When the frame and receiver rule hit, everyone wanted to watch the videos while they could. After a while, he started doing some reviews and those were doing good. But since he was doing some gunsmithing and building, he had some sponsors. Doing interviews was something else he started doing on the channel.    Finally, he started getting some pushback from the videohost website due to selling items. Eventually, he had to part ways with the sponsors as their items were the things he was getting channel strikes for. To get  away from getting strikes, he started the For The Love of Guns Podcast. Having some Toastmasters experience, talking and connecting with others was something he was good at. He's finally figured out that deep cleaning is the way to keep the channel going without issues.    During an interview talking about outdoor mentorship for women, he gets yet another strike. All the stuff he was doing, the reviews, the interviews, and the smithing is done on the same channel. The host started taking 30 episodes a day. He was getting hammered with two strikes and they were keeping them on the record. Revamping the show and the layout, he's changed it to a deep cleaning channel. Despite the issues, he loves doing the channel and having an outlet.    There were some Montana state senators that were upset about the 80% content he was producing. They wrote a letter to YT to take the content down. The next morning, Jason noticed his numbers were down. He wrote to his senators and they did almost nothing. Then he decided to write to the Montana AG Austin Knudsen, who likes suing the federal government. None of the videos were doing anything illegal, just the host didn't like them. AG Knudsen ended up sending a Schoolhouse Rock video explaining to the other senators how bills become laws.    Jason's channel really is a useful resource for the community. He's got all kinds of content and a wide variety of projects he's done. And he's had to fight the powers that be. All the while, keeping a good attitude about the battles. During the day, he has a job doing IT security, so he's pretty handy with tech. And that job gives him the ability and skill to know he has to find the limit, and the way around what they don't want content creators to be doing.   Favorite quotes: "When political turmoil hits people are hitting my videos." "The firearm transfers were paying for the YouTube channel." "I have a long time to build a business to retire."   The Rogue Banshee website https://trb.fyi/   TRB YT https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRogueBanshee   TRB FB https://www.facebook.com/TheRogueBanshee/   TRB IG https://www.instagram.com/theroguebanshee/ Second Amendment Foundation https://secure.anedot.com/saf/donate?sc=RidingShotgun   Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms https://www.ccrkba.org/   Please support the Riding Shotgun With Charlie supporters.    US Law Shield Legal Defense for Self Defense. Use "RSWC" as the discount code and get 2 months for free! https://www.uslawshield.com   Patriot Mobile Use this link and get one month for free! https://patriotmobile.com/partners/rswc   Or listen on: iTunes/Apple podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/riding-shotgun-with-charlie/id1275691565

Today is a super day - Dzisiaj jest super dzień Why - Dlaczego Today is Monday - Dziś jest poniedziałek Do you know the days of the week? - Czy znasz dni tygodnia? Monday - poniedziałek Tuesday - wtorek Wednesday - środa Thursday - czwartek Friday - piątek Saturday - sobota Sunday - niedziela Roy what do you do on Monday - Roy, co robisz w poniedziałek On Monday I study - W poniedziałek studiuję Polish language /Economics / Medicine - Język polski / ekonomia / medycyna On Tuesday I go to the Gym - We wtorek idę na siłownię On Wednesday I go to a Toastmasters meeting - W środę idę na spotkanie Toastmasters On Thursday I work - W czwartek pracuję On Friday I am with my son and we play - W piątek jestem z synem i gramy I go to the park on Saturday - Idę do parku w sobotę Lazy day on Sunday - Leniwy dzień w niedzielę I do nothing - ja nic nie robię Kamila what do you do on Monday - Kamila, co robisz w poniedziałek I have Polish lessons on Monday - Mam lekcje polskiego w poniedziałek I have yoga lessons on Tuesday - Mam lekcje jogi we wtorek I meditate on Wednesday(http://meditationpodcast.org/) - Medytuję w środę  On Thursday I walk in the park - W czwartek chodzę po parku On Friday I listen to relaxing music - W piątek słucham relaksującej muzyki On Saturday I shop in the supermarket - W sobotę robię zakupy w supermarkecie I rest on Sunday - Odpoczywam w niedzielę And what do you do on Sunday? - A co robisz w niedzielę? We wait for your comments - Czekamy na Twoje komentarze  Thank you very much - Dziękuję Ci bardzo   

It's not unusual for presenters to 'move on' from past presentations. Toastmasters is a good example. Today, Darren and Mark encourage you to 'go back to the well' and revisit old presentations. They may hold new value today.   SNIPPETS: • Maintain a story folder; an old story may have new significance • Don't discard/delete 'old' material   • "Unearth the old, uncover the GOLD" – Mark Brown   • Revisit old presentations   • Look for new value in old presentations   • Review, revise, rework, reinvent   • Enlist your list to learn what has resonated over time   • New experiences can enhance old material   • Apply newly gained wisdom, insight, and perspective to older presentations     Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com    

Taki Moore recently wrote that conviction is a shortcut to charisma. It's a clever line. It's also only half right, and the other half is quietly costing speakers bookings.In this episode, John unpacks why confident, polished speakers still fail to convert rooms into clients, referrals, or rebookings. The issue isn't delivery. It's the gap between creating a feeling of value and creating actual change, and those two things are not the same.What you'll take away:Why audiences stop looking for substance when the signals are right (and why that's a trap for strong speakers)The Toastmasters case study: total conviction, zero argument, room completely soldThe Monday morning test: the one question that separates speakers who get applause from speakers who get bookedHow to tell whether you're performing or actually shifting the roomWhy "I loved it" is three words that feel like a win and mean almost nothingIf you're getting great reactions but not great outcomes, this episode is for you.CHAPTERS00:00 Conviction and Charisma00:32 Mmmbop and Emotion01:28 Toastmasters Wake Up02:24 Applause Without Action03:33 Design Monday Changes04:30 Reframing Takis Quote05:02 Next Steps and OutroNext episode: A conversation with multi-Emmy-winning comedy writer Beth Sherman, who is also a professional speaker. Don't miss it. Follow the show so you don't.Visit https://strategic-speaker.scoreapp.com to take the 2-minute Strategic Speaking Business Audit and find out what's blocking you from getting more bookings, re-bookings, referrals and bigger fees. There's a special surprise gift for everyone who completes the quiz.Want to get coached for free on the show? Fill in the form https://forms.gle/mo4xYkEiCjqtz9yP6, and if we think your challenge could help others, we'll invite you on.For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email john@presentinfluence.com or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening. Rating the show 5* on Spotify helps their algo recommend the show, so please take a moment to follow the show and leave a rating.Mentioned in this episode:Speaker Fee AuditFind out in less than a minute if you're undercharging for your speaking and where you need to look to fix any leaks with the Speaker Fee Audit. It's free to take and find out if you're missing out on money.

Salomé Mondelus Has Lupus, a Brain Tumor, and More Degrees Than ExcusesMeet Salomé Mondelus — Founder of Glow Foundation Alliance, nonprofit leader, realtor, immigration consultant, Toastmasters member, youth ministry director, and doctoral candidate serving women and youth facing severe skin diseases, autoimmune conditions, and related mental health challenges in Palm Beach County and beyond.Connect with Salomé: glowfoundationalliance.org---Kellen: Today on Diversified Game I have Dr. Glow, one year away from finishing her doctorate. Why did you start this nonprofit?Salomé: Glow started two years ago but the work has been going for seven years. There was a big gap in Palm Beach for people dealing with severe skin diseases and autoimmune conditions. It is based on my own journey. I have been dealing with this for 20 years.Kellen: Describe your personal journey.Salomé: I developed psoriasis in my 20s. After a biopsy they confirmed it. No cure. Stress triggers it. Confidence dropped fast. Then I developed arthritis, lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, PCOS. One autoimmune problem led to others. Now I see my doctors regularly. Nutrition is everything.Kellen: Who has been your support?Salomé: My husband married me knowing there was no cure. My cousin Fabiola, my church family. I am a youth ministry director. I have no biological children due to infertility but I am a mother of many.Kellen: Why is Cap-Haïtien safe to visit?Salomé: Okap protects itself. Beautiful beaches, history, good food. I travel there every year. Do your homework and go. There are parts of America that are not safe either.Kellen: How are you connecting this work globally?Salomé: You have to prove yourself first. Collaborate, build your track record, show donors the work. A lot of kids wear long sleeves in Florida heat hiding skin problems and low self-esteem. Mental health is a huge part of this. The trauma from stigma is its own chapter.Kellen: What do we need to do to help?Salomé: Contact your congresspeople. There is not enough funding for psoriasis and autoimmune diseases. Show more compassion. Most skin conditions are not contagious. If you cannot be kind, do nothing at all.Kellen: Can you do this full time?Salomé: That is the goal. I use real estate income to fund Glow. I also do immigration consulting and taxes with my husband. I lost my mom at 13. I am being the mentor I needed. Everything comes back to community.Salomé: I have degrees in psychology, supervision and management, and ethical leadership. I am finishing my doctorate, doing Toastmasters, planning a TED Talk, and writing my memoir. My dissertation becomes my book.Kellen: She said all of that with a brain tumor. Every excuse to stop and she keeps going. Share this. Somebody you know is suffering with something they have not told you yet.---Learn the mindset and moves that lead to real results: http://diversifiedgame.com/

Brandon Mull was a guest on this podcast a few years ago in episode #251. We met when he was the Toastmaster at The Life, the Universe, and Everything Conference, after which he sent me a copy of “Fablehaven,” which became the topic of our first interview. This interview is about his newest release, “Guardians: Forbidden Mountain,” an epic adventure fantasy that can be enjoyed by YA as well as adult readers. He normally takes 6 months to write a novel, but this one took 2 ½ years due to the story's depth—and the fact that it is the first of a three-novel series. There are two hero journeys that gradually weave into each other. Mako Boughbreaker is along one path, and Arden is on the other side of the empire, walking her path. The book deftly addresses people's spirituality while weaving in the idea that one does have the choice to do the right thing—and that one's actions have consequences, good or bad —which is important. Possibly even more so these days. Learn more at https://brandonmull.com/

Mohnish Pabrai's Q&A session with Dakshana scholars at JNV Pune, Maharashtra, India on December 25, 2025  (00:00:00) – Introduction   (00:01:09) - Charlie's mental models: Take a simple idea and take it seriously     (00:03:13) - Be a Karam Yogi     (00:07:12) - Focus at improving human lives: Narayana Healthcare Systems     (00:10:52) - Purpose over profit always wins     (00:13:47) - Inner scorecard beats outer approval     (00:16:06) - Cloning: Anand Kumar and Super 30     (00:19:56) - Learn to build from zero: The Origin and Evolution of New Businesses     (00:23:02) - The Founders Podcast     (00:28:40) - Singular focus: Dronacharya & Arjuna - eye of the bird     (00:32:18) - Your Deepest Desire Is Destiny     (00:34:10) - Adversity is part of life     00:36:30) – Toastmasters     (00:37:46) - Usain Bolt from Jamaica; Illustrated Weekly of India: Khushwant Singh     (00:44:00) - Take a decision and move forward     (00:45:18) - Be the change you wish to see     (00:47:03) - Principles create advantage in life; The Founders Podcast     (00:50:12) - Focus on relevant things in life     (00:56:35) - Rule of 72     (01:00:04) - The wealth creation paradox      The contents of this audio are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and do not purport to be, and are not intended to be financial, legal, accounting, tax, or investment advice. Investments or strategies that are discussed may not be suitable for you, do not take into account your particular investment objectives, financial situation, or needs, and are not intended to provide investment advice or recommendations appropriate for you. Before making any investment or trade, consider whether it is suitable for you and consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment adviser.    

“Your thoughts create your life.” – Lisa B. SchermerhornToday's featured #1 international bestselling author is a mom, transformational leader, award-winning keynote speaker, multi-certified coach, hypnotherapist, and Master NLP Practitioner, Lisa Schermerhorn. Lisa and I had a fun on a bun chat about her book, ”In Every Belief Is a Lie”, starring in Dr. Joe Vitale's movie, “Zero Limits”, her inspiring journey overcoming learning disabilities, and more!!!Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired Lisa to become an author and have a unique array of healing modalities in her toolbeltHow Lisa ended up being featured in the Movie “Zero Limits”How the Hawaiian forgiveness prayer works, and its impact on the worldHow to discern the difference between perseverance and knowing when to move on from a goalWhat led her to join Toastmasters and strengthen her skills as a presenterLisa's Site: https://lisaschermerhorncoaching.com/Lisa's Book: https://a.co/d/0dYMvL2YThe Movie: https://zerolimitslive.com/home-650609-9935?am_id=lisaschermerhorn7339The opening track is titled, “Unknown From M.E. | Sonic Adventure 2 ~ City Pop Remix” by Iridium Beats. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://www.patreon.com/posts/sonic-adventure-136084016 Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…545 – The Maestro Monologue with Rob White (@RobWhiteMedia): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-545-the-maestro-monologue-with-rob-white-robwhitemedia/#FourFoldFormula Ep. – Waiting for Half-and-Half with Gina Lobito: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/fourfoldformula-ep-waiting-for-half-and-half-with-gina-lobito/261 – How Thoughts Become Things with Douglas Vermeeren (@DougVermeeren): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/261-how-thoughts-become-things-with-douglas-vermeeren-dougvermeeren/328 – The Greatest Secret with Hale Dwoskin (@sedonamethod): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-328-the-greatest-secret-with-hale-dwoskin-sedonamethod/273 – Rewiring Your Brain for Manifestation Success with Bob Doyle (@bobdoyle): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/273-rewiring-your-brain-for-manifestation-success-with-bob-doyle-bobdoyle/242 – The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield (@James_Redfield): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/242-the-celestine-prophecy-by-james-redfield-james_redfield/975 – Awaken The Authentic & Connected Author Within with Inna Segal (@InnaSegalauthor): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-975-awaken-the-authentic-connected-author-within-with-inna-segal-innasegalauthor/777 – Attract & Manifest Good Luck with Victoria Marie Gallagher (@LOAHypnotist): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-777-attract-manifest-good-luck-with-victoria-marie-gallagher-loahypnotist/309 – “Home Worthy” with Sandra Rinomato (@SandraRinomato): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-309-home-worthy-with-sandra-rinomato-sandrarinomato/201.5 (Thanksgiving Bonus Episode) - Believe In Divine Intervention with Ellie Pechet (@PhoenixRisingUS): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/2015-thanksgiving-bonus-episode-believe-in-divine-intervention-with-ellie-pechet-phoenixrisingus-chaostoclarity/275 – How Thoughts Become Things with Dr. Marina Bruni (@DrMarinaBruni): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/275-how-thoughts-become-things-with-dr-marina-bruni-drmarinabruni/514 – Re-Awaken You with Jenny Mannion (@jennymannion): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-514-re-awaken-you-with-jenny-mannion-jennymannion/613 – Radical Intuition with Kim Chestney (@KimChestney): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-613-radical-intuition-with-kim-chestney-kimchestney/

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy! Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/1900DM Lewis had the raw ingredients: Curiosity. Courage. Good with people. But he couldn't monetize any of it. So he got obsessive. He studied copywriting from every blog and book he could find. He showed up to Toastmasters every single week for a year. He ran webinars just to get reps in. The feedback came. People wanted more. Confidence followed. That grind, skill stacked on top of skill, was already generating millions before School of Greatness ever had a name. If you've been sitting on a dream because the timing isn't right, this one's for you. Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.