The Talkative Toastmaster
The Talkative Toastmaster, hosted by Melanie Surplice, explores how Toastmasters can help you refine your public speaking skills, communicate with confidence, and embrace your authentic voice. Through conversations with fellow Toastmasters, the podcast highlights the personal and professional impact of this global organization, and how it might benefit you too. Each episode offers insights and stories aimed at inspiring listeners to become more effective and self-assured speakers.
Episodes
Episode 58: My Toastmasters journey - with Tendai David Muranganwa
Send us Fan MailFrom timid high schooler to a champion public speaker, Tendai David Muranganwa's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Tune in to Episode 58, as we host Tendai, a distinguished Toastmaster from Zimbabwe, who reveals how his initial brush with Toastmasters transformed his life, culminating in a triumphant victory at the Southern Africa Humorous Speech Contest. Tendai's st
Episode 57: My Toastmasters journey - with Jayanti Mendhi
Send us Fan MailJayanti Mendhi, a passionate scientist and PhD student, found herself on an unexpected path to mastering the art of public speaking. Her journey began with a simple desire to make science understandable to everyone, a dream that eventually led her to the doorstep of Toastmasters, and most recently, the Brisbane Leaders Toastmasters Club. In this episode, Jayanti shares how her Fri
Episode 56: Celebrating a year of unforgettable Toastmasters moments
Send us Fan MailJoin me, Melanie Surplice, Area 26 Director (within District 69) of Toastmasters International, as I recap on what has been one of the most jam-packed, illuminating years of my Toastmasters journey to date.From holding executive committee roles at Mount Gravatt Toastmasters and Leading Edge Advanced Toastmasters, to holding my first district leadership position and running my first
Episode 55: My Toastmasters journey - with Jim Kokocki
Send us Fan MailPublic speaking can feel daunting, but what if there were a way to transform fear into confidence? Join us as we explore this transformation with Jim Kokocki, former International President of Toastmasters International, who shares his journey from a timid computer programmer to a masterful communicator. With the help of mentors Arnold and Bill, Jim found his voice and harnessed th
Episode 54: Reflections on the 2024 club and area level speech contest season
Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it takes to execute a successful Toastmasters speech contest from behind the curtain? Join us as we walk through the detailed planning and diverse roles, from contestants, contest chairs, chief judges, timers, and sergeants-at-arms, that come together to create a memorable contest season. Sharing my personal journey as a first-time Area Director, we delve into th
Episode 53: My Toastmasters journey - with Pam Holley
Send us Fan MailCurious about the inner workings of Toastmasters and how it transforms lives? Join us for an insightful discussion with Pam Holley, a committed Toastmaster who has been part of the community for over a decade. Pam invites us into her world, sharing personal stories from her journey through various roles, including VP Education, President, and Area Director. Her passion for Toastmas
Episode 52: Exploring professional speaking mastery and the Toastmasters Accredited Speaker program
Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it takes to join the ranks of the elite in public speaking? Discover the secrets behind the Toastmasters Accredited Speaker Program, a coveted title for those who shine with exceptional speaking skills on a professional stage. We explore the rigorous two-level accreditation process that culminates at the Toastmasters International Convention, where aspiring speak
Episode 51: My Toastmasters journey - with Dale Anne Clark
Send us Fan MailJoin us for an engaging conversation with Dale Anne Clark DTM AS (formerly Dale Rees-Bevan), a luminous figure in the public speaking realm and a celebrated Toastmaster. With a journey that spans from South Africa to London and Australia, Dale shares her vast experiences, including her quest in the World Championship of Public Speaking in 2017 and her recent achievement as an Accre
Episode 50: The transformative power of Toastmasters' Speechcraft and Youth Leadership Programs
Send us Fan MailDiscover two of Toastmasters' transformative programs which can elevate your communication skills like never before - even if you're not a member of an actual Toastmasters club. Ever wondered how a short-term program can revolutionise your communication skills? In this episode, we spotlight the impactful Speechcraft and Youth Leadership Programs. Designed for both adults
Episode 49: My Toastmasters journey - with Eliza Yuliana
Send us Fan MailImagine joining a club based on an amusing misunderstanding - thinking it was about food only to discover it’s a pathway to life-changing personal growth. This is the unique journey of Eliza Yuliana with Toastmasters, which started from a friend’s encouragement and has now become an inseparable part of her life. In this episode, Eliza shares how Toastmasters became a crucial therap
Episode 48: Discovering niche and specialist Toastmasters clubs around the world
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore some of the most innovative Toastmasters clubs across the globe. Join me as I uncover how these unique clubs cater to specific communities, from tech-savvy storytellers in Silicon Valley to digital nomads in the Flying Toastmasters Club. Discover how these clubs are breaking the mold of traditional public speaking, merging it with storytelling, technolo
Episode 47: My Toastmasters journey - with Sally Turner
Send us Fan MailWhat if helping your child could transform your own life too? In today's episode, we welcome the inspiring Sally Turner from the Waterloo Bay Toastmasters Club, who turned her quest to support her daughter into a fulfilling journey of personal growth and leadership. Shy and introverted at first, Sally's dedication led her to not only overcome her nerves but to also take o
Episode 46: Exploring specialist Toastmasters clubs for kids and corporates
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets to boosting public speaking skills for youth in your community, and discover how corporations can harness the power of specialised in-house Toastmasters clubs. Imagine a space where young people can build confidence through Gavel Clubs, guided by dedicated mentors in supportive, in-person settings. Explore the essential steps to initiate a Gavel Club, like triall
Episode 45: My Toastmasters journey - with Urmi Hossain
Send us Fan MailOur guest this week, Urmi Hossain from Montreal, Canada, shares her inspiring journey with Toastmasters, highlighting the pivotal moments that boosted her confidence and honed her leadership skills. From her initial encounter with Toastmasters during university to her enthusiastic recommitment in 2019, Urmi's story is a testament to the transformative impact of this supportive
Episode 44: Reflections of a first-time Area Director - 3 months in!
Send us Fan MailWhat if you could develop your leadership skills by embracing a role that pushes you out of your comfort zone? As an Area Director for Area 26, in District 69 of Toastmasters International, I’ve taken on this challenge headfirst, and I’m excited to share my reflections from my first three months. This episode is a deep dive into my early, unofficial (and official) visits to all fiv
Episode 43: My Toastmasters journey - with Brendan O'Sullivan
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brendan O'Sullivan, an enthusiastic Toastmaster and skin cancer GP, shares how he overcame imposter syndrome and improved essential speaking techniques like vocal variety, pausing, and eye contact. His candid reflections offer invaluable insights into the supportive and collaborative spirit of Toastmasters, revealing how this community helped him grow both per
Episode 42: Unlocking club success: how The Club Up Project resources can improve your club
Send us Fan MailDiscover how seasoned Toastmasters Kate Norris and Thomas Krafft (and the current District 69 Training Managers) have crafted the essential toolkit for club officers on The Club Up Project website. This week, we review this treasure trove of content and detailed resources tailored for club, area and division level roles. From creating a robust online presence to converting guests i
Episode 41: My Toastmasters journey - with Colin Williams
Send us Fan MailColin Williams shares his inspiring 10-year journey from a hesitant newcomer to Toastmasters, to representing Australasia in the Region 12 quarterfinals and competing in the prestigious World Championship of Public Speaking in August 2024. We'll unpack the supportive, encouraging community within Toastmasters that nurtured his growth and the critical role of mutual encourageme
Episode 40: 7 communications podcasts to boost your public speaking skills
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how you can elevate your public speaking game using podcasts? This week on the Talkative Toastmaster podcast, I'll share a list of podcasts that I believe showcase some great voices in the world of public and professional speaking.Starting with the Toastmasters Podcast, we dive into practical advice from seasoned Toastmasters and industry experts. We also spotlig
Episode 39: My Toastmasters journey - with Evelyn Calaunan
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how one can maintain professionalism while navigating the turbulent waters of grief? In this moving episode, we speak with Evelyn, a dedicated Toastmaster and celebrant of 16 years, who shares her journey of transitioning into the world of wedding and funeral celebrations. Evelyn discusses the emotional challenges she faced, including the moment she was dismissed from
Episode 38: Supercharge your Toastmasters experience and stretch beyond your comfort zone!
Send us Fan MailReady to conquer potential stagnation and supercharge your Toastmasters experience? Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can ignite huge personal and professional growth. Join me, as I share ten simple but potentially transformational activities that can expand your horizons, from visiting other clubs to engaging in club officer training and competitions. Hear about my own j
Episode 37: My Toastmasters journey - with Tammy van der Reijden
Send us Fan MailWhat drives a professional presenter to return to the stage after a hiatus? Tammy van der Reijden shares her inspiring journey from a Toastmasters novice to an Area 9 Director within District 69's Northern Division. Having previously entertained and informed audiences at the Alice Springs Desert Park, Tammy opens up about re-igniting her passion for public speaking, motivated
Episode 36: Launching your podcast: essential gear, Apps and tips
Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it takes to launch a podcast that stands out? On this episode of The Talkative Toastmaster, I discuss the essential gear and tools you need to kick off your podcasting journey. We'll explore the key equipment and tools you'll need to get you sounding great, and run through some of the recording software options like Audacity, Garageband, and Adobe Audit
Episode 35: From procrastination to podcasting; tips for Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailIf you're a Toastmaster, and have thought about tackling the Level 4 elective project Create a Podcast, but don't know where to start, check out this episode.Building on last week's episode, Discover the power of podcasting for Toastmasters, I share how I conquered procrastination and navigated the overwhelming process of starting my own podcast, thanks to the invalu
Episode 34: Discover the power of podcasting for Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how podcasting could improve your public speaking skills? Join me, Melanie Surplice as I discuss why I think podcasting is the perfect outlet for Toastmasters - and why YOU should consider doing the Level 4 elective project, "Create a Podcast".In this episode of a multi-part series about podcasting, we'll journey through the fascinating history of podca
Episode 33: My Toastmasters journey - with Hilary Saxton
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how the simple act of joining a Toastmasters club can transform your confidence? Join us as we explore Hilary Saxton's incredible journey from a novice public speaker to a celebrated club president and competition winner. Through her story, you'll learn about the unexpected opportunities and responsibilities that come with Toastmasters, and how this supporti
Episode 32: A new Toastmasters year, and a new vision as Area 26 Director
Send us Fan MailAs the newly appointed Area 26 Director in District 69, I highlight the responsibilities that come with this position - from regular club visits to organising the 2024 Area 26 Conference, managing the area budget and council meetings, and more. I discuss how these activities are essential in assessing the health and quality of clubs, focusing on key aspects like first impressions,
Episode 31: My Toastmasters journey - with Nicky Jurd
Send us Fan MailWhat if your passion for public speaking could turn into a lifelong journey of leadership and growth? This episode of The Talkative Toastmaster is a must-listen as we bring you the inspiring story of Nicky Jurd, a Toastmaster with 25 years of experience who began her journey at just 16. Nicky shares the unique culture of District 69, where fun, camaraderie and connection reign supr
Episode 30: Reflections and key takeaways from an outgoing club President
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Melanie Surplice, the outgoing president of the Mount Gravatt Toastmasters Club shares her 12-month leadership journey, emphasising the importance of keeping members engaged and informed. She discusses the strategies she used to manage fluctuating attendance and maintain high-quality meetings. Plus, Melanie offers a glimpse into the experiences that shaped her lea
Episode 29: My Toastmasters journey - with Alex Stevenson
Send us Fan MailA dog park encounter leads to a life enriched by public speaking - sounds like a bit of a tale, doesn't it? Yet, for Alex Stevenson, it's the origin of his journey with Chelmer Speakers, which he recounts with humour on this week's Talkative Toastmaster Podcast. Feeling the butterflies before a big speech is something Alex knows well, and together, we dissect the lan
Episode 28: Unexpected adventures in Malaysia: Toastmasters club visits and a conference
Send us Fan MailCould a simple Toastmasters club visit turn into an adventure filled with cultural exchange, networking and serendipitous discoveries?Join me in Episode 28, as I recount my recent holiday, that began with planned visits to the Malacca and Summit Toastmasters Clubs but unfolded into an unexpected immersion in the Malaysian District 102 conference - my second District conference in a
Episode 27: My Toastmasters journey - with Steve Bates
Send us Fan MailHave you ever craved genuine feedback that slices through the usual "good job" commentary? Toastmaster Steve Bates certainly did. Join us as Steve, an 11-year member of Toastmasters, and winner of the District 69 Table Topics Contest, recounts his unique foray into the world of Toastmasters. His quest for constructive criticism propelled him from firefighting to the pinna
Episode 26: Recap of the 2024 District 69 Conference - from a first-timer
Send us Fan MailIn this Episode, I recap the District 69 Toastmasters conference, held on the first weekend of May in Caloundra, South East Queensland.As a first time District Conference attendee, member of the organising committee and contest participant, I delve into the agenda of the theme that encouraged us to "Grow By Design".From the stirring keynote on the 'Inner Game of Grow
Episode 25: My Toastmasters journey - with Junyan Tan
Send us Fan MailThis week, we explore the 12-month Toastmasters journey of Junyan Tan - a Toastmasters enthusiast, recently appointed Secretary of the Mount Gravatt Toastmasters Club - and one of my mentees. Junyan (who usually goes by the name of Brodie), shares his seven-year journey to the podium. Listen as we uncover the layers of personal and professional growth that come from facing fears, e
Episode 24: Recapping 23 episodes of The Talkative Toastmaster Podcast
Send us Fan MailAs we celebrate The Talkative Toastmaster Podcast's journey through 23 episodes, I recap highlights of each episode to date - not only to surface some of the earlier content for new visitors to the podcast, but also to reflect on some of the inspiring personal stories that my guests have shared.Revisit our early guidance for Toastmasters newbies, the strategies to tackle the j
Episode 23: My Toastmasters journey - with Sue Pinker
Send us Fan MailEmbark on a unique journey with Sue Pinker, a beacon in the Toastmasters community, as she recounts her remarkable transformation from a shy and nervous woman to a charismatic leader and speaker. As we navigate Sue's personal anecdotes and her current role as District 69's historian, we uncover the impact of Toastmasters on her life - an influence that extends far beyond
Episode 22: Navigating the Toastmasters annual conference and training circuit
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we unlock the treasure trove of conferences and training opportunities that await Toastmasters who choose to take advantage of a packed annual program!I walk through the various area and division gatherings, where fellow Toastmasters compete and learn through educational sessions. But that's just the appetiser! The main course is the illustrious district level
Episode 21: My Toastmasters journey - with Leonard Scuderi
Send us Fan MailWhen Leonard Scuderi steps onto the stage, he brings with him a treasure trove of experiences from three decades as a Toastmaster. His journey, which began with a nudge from his father and a personal quest to enhance his communication as an engineer, has taken him through clubs across the globe - each anecdote shedding light on the diverse and enriching world of Toastmasters. This
Episode 20: The transformative odyssey of Toastmasters contests
Send us Fan MailThis week, we navigate through the competitive landscape of Toastmasters contests!From intimate club-level contests to the pinnacle of the World Championship of Public Speaking, I'll walk you through the stages where the art of public speaking is not only honed and celebrated, but judged.Peer behind the curtain of the evaluation, table topics, humorous, and international speec
Episode 19: My Toastmasters journey - with Kate Norris
Send us Fan MailIn our latest episode, Kate Norris, a Toastmaster with 14 years experience, joins us to recount her transformative story. From the depths of personal challenge to the heights of district-level leadership roles, she shares how the community within Toastmasters not only honed her public speaking skills but also led her to develop lasting friendships and a stronger sense of confidence
Episode 18: Exploring the many leadership opportunities in Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailDiscover the transformative power of leadership roles in Toastmasters, and how they forge skills you can apply in every facet of your life. In this episode, I take you behind the gavel to reveal how taking on a leadership role at Toastmasters can provide invaluable experience. From the skill of decision-making to the finesse of meeting facilitation in a volunteer organisation, I&ap
Episode 17: My Toastmasters journey - with Mat Eyles
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how a decade of transforming fear into finesse through public speaking feels? Let Toastmaster Mat Eyles take you on his captivating journey in the latest episode of the Talkative Toastmaster podcast. You’ll hear how Mat's initial reservations about joining Toastmasters melted away as he found the perfect club. His story isn’t just about speaking; it’s a deeper di
Episode 16: Expanding your professional growth and network with Toastmasters mentors
Send us Fan MailUnlock the transformational power of mentorship, as we navigate the inner workings of Toastmasters' mentoring program to catapult your communication and leadership skills to new heights. In this episode, I delve into how the mentoring program fosters the art of crafting successful mentoring relationships, discussing the process of pairing mentors with mentees, the importance o
Episode 15: My Toastmasters journey - with Graham Cairns
Send us Fan MailEmbark on a Toastmasters odyssey as my guest, Graham Cairns, shares experiences from six of his current Toastmasters clubs and the completion of some 15 Pathways. From the first anxious steps at a local community club to the polished podiums of advanced groups, Graham has navigated the seas of public speaking and leadership, each wave offering new challenges and opportunities. Feat
Episode 14: Exploring the unique roles on the Toastmasters agenda
Send us Fan MailIn this Episode, we explore the Toastmasters meeting agenda in detail, to provide you with an outline of the unique speaking opportunities at each meeting. I’ll touch on what each role is, what’s required and how you may be able to apply this to other areas of your life.Picture yourself as the Toastmaster, a conductor ensuring each speaker's voice harmonises with the meeting&a
Episode 13: My Toastmasters journey - with Geoff Roberts
Send us Fan MailPicture this: you're in a room full of people, your heart is pounding, palms are sweaty and it's your turn to speak. Daunting, right? Our guest for this week's episode, Geoff Roberts, shows us that it doesn't have to be! A long-standing member of Mad Chatter's Toastmasters, and current Area 26 Director, Geoff shares his transformational journey from a timid
Episode 12: Improving your speaking prowess with constructive evaluations
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how seasoned speakers turn every critique into a stepping stone for success? Unlock this mystery with me as we dissect the transformative power of speech evaluations in the world of Toastmasters. Episode 12 provides insights on the subtle art of constructive feedback, which can help you to elevate your public speaking prowess and embrace personal and professional adva
Episode 11: My Toastmasters journey - with Thomas Krafft
Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, we pull up for a chat with Thomas Krafft, who at age 18, embarked on a jam-packed Toastmasters journey that led him to achieve a Distinguished Toastmaster Award (DTM) by age 25. Listen as Thomas outlines his Toastmasters experience, his role in steering five clubs as President and being an Area Director three times, and more. He also shares why he chose to
Episode 10: Conquering the terror of impromptu speaking with Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailEver find yourself tongue-tied when the spotlight unexpectedly turns your way? Let me share with you, how Toastmasters can be instrumental in helping you to improve your impromptu speaking skills.In this episode, I discuss the many opportunities Toastmasters provides for anyone eager to elevate their spontaneous speech skills, whether it's during a nerve-wracking job interview
Episode 9: My Toastmasters journey - with Kevin Ryan
Send us Fan MailIn this week's episode, we hear highlights of the inspirational 35-year journey of Kevin Ryan, who went from an electronics company rep to a professional speaker, with the help of Toastmasters. Our conversation pulls back the curtain on the art of public speaking and the powerful life lessons that come from leading and growing within this global community. Kevin discusses key
Episode 8: Mastering the art of inspiring speeches with Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets of powerful speechmaking, as we delve into the art of capturing hearts and minds through words. This episode is your golden ticket to understanding why the ability to craft and deliver a meaningful speech is more than just a skill—it's a bridge connecting people, ideas, and action. With a nod to icons like Martin Luther King Jr. and Steve Jobs, we dissect ho
Episode 7: My Toastmasters journey - with John Coorey
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how to refine your communication skills to command a room? Join us as we catch up with John Coorey, a five-year veteran of Toastmasters, who shares his journey of learning the art of public speaking. John opens up about his early days, from grappling with vocal variety and speech structure, to standing confidently on stage, delivering engaging speeches. He shares his
Episode 6: Your Pathways to success at Toastmasters
Send us Fan MailJoin us in Episode 6, as we navigate through the Toastmasters Pathways program, where the art of communication and leadership is fine-tuned to meet the demands of our ever-evolving world. Offering the opportunity to hone over 300 competencies across 11 learning paths, the program is like your own, bespoke degree, designed to sculpt your public speaking and leadership skills from th
Episode 5: My Toastmasters journey - with Melissa Chong
Send us Fan MailHear the first-hand account of the impact of Toastmasters with our very first guest, Melissa Chong. An experienced member of the Mount Gravatt Toastmasters Club, Melissa shares her inspiring journey of self-development over the past ten years. Her dedication to improving her public speaking skills for her research work may even inspire you to take a step towards your own personal a
Episode 4: What actually is Toastmasters and how can it help you succeed?
Send us Fan MailUnlock the key to conquering Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, and learn how to step confidently into leadership roles with the guidance of Toastmasters International. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of this global not-for-profit organisation, that has been fostering effective communication and leadership skills since 1924. I'll share how clubs are organ
Episode 3: My Toastmasters journey - with Melanie Surplice
Send us Fan MailEmbark with me on a brief review of the 35 years of my life interlaced with Toastmasters. In today's episode, I unfold the chapters of my journey, from a hesitant 17-year-old in a high school Speechcraft program to a far more confident speaker, who has held senior marketing roles in global companies, led online communities, led Toastmasters clubs and competed in Division level
Episode 2: Unleashing success: why confidence in public speaking matters
Send us Fan MailEver wondered why some people seem to effortlessly climb the career ladder while others struggle? The secret might just lie in their ability to communicate effectively. This episode of The Talkative Toastmaster podcast is all about the transformative power of confident public speaking. We're not just talking about giving speeches, we're exploring the far-reaching impact,
Episode 1: Conquering the fear of public speaking: from anxiety to confidence
Send us Fan MailAre you ready to conquer one of humanity's most common fears? It's time to face the terror of public speaking head-on! We're dissecting this widespread fear from every angle, exploring its deep-seated roots from evolutionary instincts to the crushing dread of judgement. Dive into the world of glossophobia and find out how it not only disconnects you from your audienc
The Talkative Toastmaster - Teaser!
Send us Fan MailPublic speaking remains one of the most prevalent fears of individuals globally, often surpassing fears of heights, spiders, and even death. Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, affects an estimated 75% of the population, leading to symptoms ranging from mild anxiety to severe panic attacks. This fear can be debilitating, and, can hinder your personal and professional growth.
