The Toastmaster's Experience

This episode features Lou Beaton and myself, sharing our journey through the 77-Day Video Challenge, an initiative started by Darren LaCroix to encourage daily live speaking practice. The challenge, inspired by Darren’s preparation for the World Championship of Public Speaking in 2001, helps participants refine their impromptu speaking skills, develop storytelling abilities, and build a habit of speaking regularly.We reflect on our shared experience of completing the challenge, discussing the initial apprehension, struggles with consistency, and personal growth it spurred. I was inspired by Kory May, who has been participating in the challenge daily for over five years. The challenge also became an opportunity for both of to explore our creativity, recall life stories, and engage with audiences in meaningful ways.Throughout the challenge, we observed unique styles emerging. I leaned toward storytelling and show-and-tell, incorporating personal artifacts and memories. Lou focused on observation and impromptu topics drawn from daily experiences. Despite initial nervousness and challenges like keeping energy levels high, we, both developed confidence and found joy in the process.The live aspect of the challenge proved crucial, forcing authenticity and spontaneity. We shared anecdotes about navigating unexpected moments, such as technical issues or engaging with viewers during broadcasts. The exercise not only refined our speaking skills but also unearthed valuable life lessons and connections with their audiences.I will continue share my life story through videos, while Lou is shifting focus to a wildlife-friendly gardening project, incorporating video-based outreach. We both agreed that the challenge was transformative, fostering gratitude and a deeper appreciation for our experiences and the power of storytelling.We encourage others to try similar challenges, emphasizing the personal insights, growth, and legacy it can create. The episode closes with our heartfelt gratitude for the shared experience and the profound impact of the challenge.

Vicki joined Toastmasters in 2015, inspired by her former boss, a public speaking advocate who encouraged her staff to hone their communication skills. Vicki, a high school teacher, recognized the value of public speaking, especially when tasked with delivering a graduation speech for 400 people. She joined Parramatta Club, completing a Speechcraft course, and has remained a member ever since, later adding Stage Time and Corrective Services Toastmasters to her affiliations.Her journey has been fueled by a love of storytelling, drawing on personal experiences to craft speeches. One significant story, about her mother’s inclusive kindness in running a dance school, evolved over nine years into a successful contest speech. Vicki also enjoys the adrenaline and preparation of competing in contests, particularly prepared speeches.Outside contests, Vicki has contributed to Toastmasters’ Corrective Services program, teaching public speaking to inmates—a deeply rewarding experience. Professionally, Toastmasters has enhanced her presentation skills, benefiting her leadership role in mentoring teachers. Personally, it’s given her a meaningful pursuit outside work.She advises prospective members to embrace Toastmasters with patience, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice in mastering public speaking skills, much like building physical strength at the gym.

Michael shares his remarkable journey in Toastmasters, spanning over two decades, starting in 2000 when he joined after initial reluctance. Encouraged by a friend and a pivotal ask from a club member, Michael learned a valuable lesson: sometimes, people just need to be asked to join.Initially balancing Toastmasters with a demanding work schedule, Michael’s commitment grew as he joined multiple clubs, at one point managing 16 simultaneously. Despite the overwhelming commitment, Michael found joy in Toastmasters, currently attending five clubs regularly and engaging deeply with two favorites.He reflects on various leadership roles, starting as Sergeant at Arms and advancing to positions like Area Director and Regional Advisor. Michael highlights that area-level roles are particularly rewarding for their direct club engagement. His leadership philosophy centers on adapting to different club cultures rather than imposing uniformity, a skill he honed through years of experience.Michael recounts unique experiences, such as delivering impromptu speeches, emceeing high-profile events, and providing evaluations even in foreign languages. A standout memory includes visiting a Toastmasters club in a maximum-security prison, where he witnessed profound respect and dedication from members striving for self-improvement.Michael emphasizes the importance of new members to sustain the organization and encourages immediate participation. His advice to prospective members is simple yet impactful: "Stop thinking and join." His journey illustrates the transformative power of Toastmasters, not just in public speaking but in leadership and personal growth.Michael’s passion, dedication, and humor leave an enduring mark, making him a proud and inspiring Toastmaster.

Lana’s journey with Toastmasters began after a judge at a university oratory competition suggested she join to refine her skills and reduce reliance on notes. Despite her natural talent in public speaking, Lana lacked polish and joined Concord West Toastmasters in December 2017 at age 20. Since then, she has been an active member for seven years, also participating in a second club, Stage Time.Her Toastmasters experience has been transformative. Initially intimidated, she soon found the welcoming culture encouraging. Her first contest came three months into her membership, and though she didn’t place at Division level initially, the experience fueled her passion for competing. Over time, Lana has excelled, becoming a district champion in Table Topics, and humorous speech and placing 3rd in International and evaluation District 70 contests, demonstrating her adaptability and dedication.Lana’s preparation strategies include recording speeches for review, practicing timing, and focusing on audience engagement. She values feedback but emphasizes trusting her instincts when refining speeches. For evaluation and Table Topics, she practices responding spontaneously and manages timing effectively.Outside of Toastmasters, Lana’s contributions include founding a Gavel Club for youth aged 12-17. She emphasizes experiential learning and fostering community within the club, aiming to build a strong foundation for its longevity.Lana attributes her growth in composure, communication, and teaching effectiveness to Toastmasters. She uses techniques like slowing her speech, adding drama, and engaging her audience to enhance her students’ learning. Her advice to potential members is to research local clubs, find one that feels welcoming, and not delay joining.Lana’s goals include earning her Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation, further developing her public speaking style, and strengthening her Gavel Club. She champions Toastmasters as a lifelong learning platform that fosters both personal and professional growth.