The Talkative Toastmaster

Hosted by Melanie Surplice

Education

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Latest episode

Jan 2025

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EN-AU

About the show

Welcome to The Talkative Toastmaster podcast, with your host, Melanie Surplice. In this podcast, we explore how Toastmasters can help you to polish your public speaking skills, communicate with confidence and amplify your authenticity. You'll hear from my fellow Toastmasters and I, how this global organisation has impacted our lives for the better, and, how it could impact YOURS! Now let's get talkative!

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59 recent

January 5, 2025Episode 5845 min

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 story of overcoming shyness is just the beginning, as he opens up about a significant life event in 2015 when he lost his sight due to meningitis, propelling him into a new chapter of mentorship advocacy and a mission to move into the world of training and professional speaking.With resilience as his backbone, Tendai shares how the support system surrounding him, including family, friends, and the Toastmasters community, became vital during his toughest times. He speaks passionately about his current role as a mentor at the Dorothy Duncan Centre for the Blind and his unwavering commitment to meningitis awareness. Through storytelling, Tendai endeavors to dismantle stigmas around disability, encouraging others to leverage their public speaking skills to effect change far beyond the Toastmasters' stages.Our conversation wraps up with a look at Tendai's leadership experiences within Toastmasters and his vision for the future. As he navigates various roles from club president to vice president of education, Tendai underscores the importance of mentorship and adaptation, especially with the transition to the Pathways program. We reflect on how Toastmasters has become a global platform for connection, and look forward to Tendai's continued impact both within the organisation and in his broader humanitarian pursuits as 202 unfolds.LinksLe Phénix Toastmasters meets online the 1st and 3rd Sunday afternoons of each month, from 5.00pm (contact club for details).Zenith Advanced Club meets on the last Saturday of every month from 9-11am at the Masawara Urban Resort.More about Tendai's story* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

December 29, 2024Episode 5744 min

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 Friday nights transformed into supportive gatherings, full of vibrant community spirit and learning opportunities. Driven by her goal to one day speak on the TED platform, Jayanti's story is a testament to the power of effective communication and the supportive environment she discovered at Toastmasters.From overcoming imposter syndrome to crafting engaging messages out of complex scientific topics, Jayanti’s journey is filled with valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their public speaking skills. She guides us through the nuances of translating intricate ideas into relatable narratives, making things like scanning electron microscopy not just comprehensible, but captivating. Her experiences reflect the profound impact of Toastmasters and TEDx in growing her confidence, enabling her to explore diverse speech topics such as mental health and gender equality. Our conversation highlights how impromptu speaking exercises have played a crucial role in managing anxiety and honing her spontaneity, all while participating in speech contests that celebrate humor and creativity.As Jayanti reflects on her adventures - from the meticulous preparations for her TEDx talk to the adrenaline of Toastmasters contests, she encourages you to set bold goals and embrace the learning curve. Tune in to be inspired by Jayanti's story, enriched with tales of personal triumphs and the boundless opportunities that have shaped her into a compelling communicator. We hope this episode inspires you to explore Toastmasters in 2025, and to begin your own journey of communication mastery and leadership development.Club LinksBrisbane Leaders Toastmasters Club meets on the 1st and 3rd Friday nights of each month, from 6.45pm at the Garden City Library.Jayanti's TedX Talk at QUT* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

December 22, 2024Episode 5625 min

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 area conference, this year has been nothing short of rewarding. I invite you to explore the global Toastmasters community with me, including unforgettable visits to Toastmasters clubs and a District conference in Malaysia. These experiences underscore not just the incredible networking opportunities but also the invaluable insights into club management and broader organisational dynamics.I talk about the hidden benefits of volunteer roles in contests and how they can enrich your communication and leadership skills. I also touch on my Triple Crown Award and the evolving adventure of creating this very podcast as part of one of my Pathways elective projects. With each role and every challenge, Toastmasters has offered profound growth and introduced me to amazing people worldwide. Join me as we toast to a year filled with learning, leadership and lasting connections.Club links: Mount Gravatt Toastmasters meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday evening of each month at the Mount Gravatt Bowls Club, from 6.45pm.Leading Edge Advanced Toastmasters meets on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesday evening of each month at the Carindale Library, from 6.45pm.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

December 15, 2024Episode 5541 min

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 the power of Toastmasters to launch a successful professional speaking career. Throughout our discussion, Jim candidly reveals the surprising challenges of condensing his expertise into Toastmasters' traditional five to seven-minute speech format, a contrast to his usual expansive speaking engagements.We dive into the world of leadership within volunteer organisations, where Jim reflects on his admiration for the dedication of club leaders, especially in smaller clubs. He shares insights from his time as Toastmasters' International President and his subsequent role on the board of L'Arche Saint John, highlighting the distinctive dynamics between volunteer and corporate leadership. Jim's experiences underscore the importance of balancing commitment with sustainability to prevent burnout and foster a thriving community spirit.Jim's wealth of experience offers valuable lessons on expanding skills beyond Toastmasters' walls. We discuss leveraging the practical skills gained, such as running meetings and mastering communications, to excel in various settings. Jim also emphasises the transition from speaking to writing as a tool to refine communication skills further. Whether mentoring new members or setting personal and club goals, Jim's advice is clear: seek opportunities outside the organisation to maximise growth and impact, ensuring the Toastmasters journey remains a transformative and enriching experience.LinksJim's BlogJim's Amazon profile (with links to his books)Jim's Speaker Reel* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

December 8, 2024Episode 5428 min

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 the intricacies of these events, offering practical tips for both contestants and organisers. Whether you're preparing to captivate an audience or orchestrating the event logistics, this episode aims to equip you with the insights and strategies needed to thrive in contest season.On the topic of organising these events, we explore the essential collaboration among club Presidents and Exec teams, Area Directors, and Division Directors to achieve seamless execution. The value of paperwork preparation cannot be overstated, and we discuss how to streamline these crucial processes with the help of fellow members and contest kits. Tune in to discover the collaborative spirit and educational opportunities that define the Toastmasters community, and which contest season reinforces.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

December 2, 2024Episode 5338 min

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 Toastmasters is contagious as she recounts the fun and camaraderie found in creative club meetings, like mock weddings and fairy tale-themed events, and discusses the profound transformations she sees in fellow members.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the art of club coaching and improvement in Toastmasters. Pam discusses the delicate balance of guiding clubs through changes, focusing on observation and inclusivity. Through anecdotal experiences, such as working with a club member with autism, she highlights the importance of understanding and appreciating diversity within the organisation. Our conversation touches on the subtle yet significant adjustments that can lead clubs to reach the President's Distinguished status, providing inspiration for both new and seasoned club members.Adaptability and personal growth are central themes as we reflect on managing unexpected challenges and embracing leadership roles within Toastmasters. As the episode concludes, Pam and I celebrate the supportive and transformative nature of the Toastmasters experience. Tune in to be inspired by Pam's journey and the vibrant community of Toastmasters.Club linksRedlands Toastmasters meets on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Monday nights of each month, from 7.15pm at the Q C W A Hall.Indooroopilly Toastmasters meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday nights of each month, from 6.45pm at the Indooroopilly Library.HOT Toastmasters meets online on Sundays from 12.30pm.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

November 24, 2024Episode 5218 min

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 speakers must captivate both a large audience and a discerning panel of judges. From crafting a powerful speech structure to engaging diverse audiences with originality and adaptability, learn how this program sets the gold standard for public speaking excellence.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

November 17, 2024Episode 5143 min

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 Accredited Speaker. Discover the intricate dance of communication through Dale's perspective, as she reflects on the adult-focused realm of Toastmasters and her work with children at ChatterCamp. Dale shares touching anecdotes from her work with children, who often show deep empathy and storytelling prowess. We move on to Dale's journey to becoming an Accredited Speaker, which is a testament to her persistence, talent and the support from her peers at the Stagetime Toastmasters Club, highlighting the power of community in achieving prestigious milestones.As we navigate the final chapters of our conversation, Dale illuminates the impact of Toastmasters on personal growth and communication mastery. Her stories offer encouragement for anyone looking to refine their speaking skills. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just embarking on your speaking journey, Dale's insights promise to ignite your passion for public speaking.Club Links:Dural Toastmasters - meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday night of each month, from 6.45pm at the Dural Country Club.Stagetime Toastmasters - see Facebook page for meeting times.Dale's 2023 Accredited Speaker speech Dale's pagesdaleanneclark.comwww.chattercamp.info* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

November 10, 2024Episode 5018 min

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 and youth, these programs provide a fast-track experience to boost confidence and communication prowess. We discuss how these intensive initiatives differ from the traditional Toastmasters journey, focusing on delivering concentrated learning without a long-term commitment.We break down the structure and benefits of Speechcraft, a short-term course perfect for adults new to public speaking, and explore how it serves as a professional development tool and a confidence booster. Whether you're a corporate professional or a member of a community group, discover how these programs can be tailored to meet your specific needs and help you thrive in communication and leadership roles. Tune in to equip yourself with the essential skills to excel beyond your comfort zone.* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

November 3, 2024Episode 4939 min

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 therapy during the loss of her mother in 2020, helping her rebuild her routines and connecting her with clubs worldwide, including one in Saudi Arabia where she was affectionately called "princess".Also in this episode, we explore Eliza and her team’s extraordinary experience in organising a nonstop 20-hour online event to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Toastmasters, featuring former past International Presidents and Accredited Speakers, amongst other prominent Toastmasters, from around the globe. Despite facing intense challenges and high expectations, this achievement was made possible through close collaboration and smart strategies. From ensuring smooth task transitions to engaging over 100 online participants, the initiative not only met its goals but also earned much recognition. This episode is about inspiration, personal and professional growth, and courageously overcoming language barriers. Don’t miss this inspiring story that is sure to motivate every listener.Club LinksWorld Travellers Toastmasters - check Facebook page for meeting times and Zoom details.Eliza's YouTube channel, featuring videos from the 20-hour online event celebrating 100 years of Toastmasters* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback about the show. Feel free to message Mel at talkativetoastmaster@gmail.com or connect with us on your favourite social media platforms:- Facebook- Instagram- TwitterYou can subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Podcast Addict, Podchaser, Player FM and more!To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.orgTo find a Toastmasters club near you, visit: www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

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