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[32:22] What does it take to turn a difficult past into an opportunity to help others? Dr. Sherri Raftery, a college professor, six-time Distinguished Toastmaster and former foster youth, joins host Greg Gazin to share how her experiences shaped her passion for education, mentorship and advocating for young people in foster care. Growing up in foster care, Sherri attended 15 different schools. Despite those challenges, she pursued higher education, eventually earning a doctorate. Along the way, she found herself asking a powerful question: “Where's the other 99% of us?” That question helped inspire her research into mentorship programs for foster youth pursuing higher education. Sherri also shares how Toastmasters, which she joined in 2005, helped her grow as a communicator and leader, giving her greater confidence to share her experiences and strengthen her advocacy. Listeners will also hear: Why Sherri chose to embrace her foster care experiences rather than leave them behind.How mentors, education and perseverance helped shape her journey.How Shirley Temple, theatre and stand-up comedy influenced her development.How Toastmasters helped her share difficult personal experiences without letting emotion overwhelm her message.What it meant to be honoured by The Home for Little Wanderers before an audience of approximately 900 people.How her involvement with Toastmasters prison clubs connects with her advocacy work.Why earning her sixth Distinguished Toastmaster designation was especially meaningful.Her advice for overcoming difficult experiences, finding mentors and making a difference in others' lives.Sherri's journey reminds us that our past doesn't have to define our limits. Sometimes, the experiences that challenge us most can become the foundation for helping others build a better future. Related article: Using Her Past to Impact Others’ Futures by Stephanie Darling, Toastmaster magazine, September 2026. About Dr. Sherri RafteryDr. Sherri Raftery is a college professor and public speaker, teaching communication and speech at two Massachusetts colleges. She's also a court-appointed advocate and nonprofit volunteer for foster youth and speaks to community and child-welfare audiences about the challenges they face. She holds an EDD in Higher Education Leadership and an M.Ed. in Arts & Learning from Endicott College, and a B.S. in Theater, Performance & Communications from Emerson College. She is also a performer, artist, published poet, mother and grandmother. A Toastmaster since 2005, Sherri has served a term as District 31 Governor and earned numerous speaking and leadership honours, including being a six Distinguished Toastmaster, Area Governor of the Year and Toastmaster of the Year. She also placed second in the District 31 International Speech Contest in 2022. A fun fact about Sherri: she's ambidextrous and crochets blankets for foster babies in her spare time. Sherri lives near Boston, Massachusetts and can be reached at [email protected] or Google her to find her on socials.

[43:04] Dirceu “Didi” da Silva is the 2026 Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking. The Rotterdam, Netherlands, speaker rose above seven other finalists after a months-long competition that began with thousands of Toastmasters from more than 100 countries. In this episode, Didi takes us behind his winning speech, Best Decision Ever!, his long road to the championship, and the lessons he learned along the way. Didi's championship speech begins with a basketball game, a ticking clock and a decision to make. It also ends with a question he deliberately refuses to answer. He explains why he took the risk of leaving his audience hanging, how a version of the speech dates back more than a decade, and why the outcome of that basketball shot isn't really the point. Didi also shares how family, friendship and coaching became part of his championship journey, with different people providing the support, perspective and expertise he needed along the way. Listeners will also hear: Why Didi once thought his life wasn't extraordinary enough to produce championship-worthy stories, and what changed his mind.How a road trip and shared dream connected Didi and 2025 World Champion Sabyasachi “Saby” Sengupta long before either became a World Champion.Why the right feedback matters, and how Didi learned to decide which advice to take and which to leave behind.What Toastmasters taught him about giving back, even after becoming an accomplished speaker.The camaraderie he witnessed among competitors at the World Championship.What his next chapter looks like now that he can no longer compete for the Toastmasters world title.A simple exercise for discovering stories in your own life and why Didi believes inspiration can be found in the mundane....and more!You can read Didi's profile by Laura Mishkind in the October 2026 issue of Toastmaster magazine. Watch Didi's World Championship-winning speech, Best Decision Ever!. You can also listen to our interview with 2025 World Champion Sabyasachi “Saby” Sengupta in Episode #286. You can also watch Didi's semifinal speech, What's the Worst That Can Happen? and find out who George is, by subscribing to the 2026 International Convention On-Demand. About Dirceu “Didi” da Silva Dirceu “Didi” da Silva is a consultant, speaker and trainer who helps people speak with clarity, confidence and impact. With more than 25 years of experience, he has worked across business, education and social innovation, coaching professionals, leaders and TEDx speakers. He has hosted and spoken at multiple TEDx events across Europe, and his work focuses on communication, leadership and personal growth. Based in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Didi has been a member of Sprekershaven Toastmasters since 2014 and was also a dual member of Rotterdam Toastmasters for five years. Offstage, he is a father of four and a passionate amateur photographer. You can reach Didi at: https://dirceudasilva.com/

[39:18] Forty plus Voices from around the world. And one question at the heart of it all: What was it like to experience the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention in Vancouver, Canada? In this bonus episode and Part 2 of our convention coverage, Toastmasters Podcast host Greg and fellow podcaster & Toastmaster Michael Dugan turn the microphone over to the people who were there, including many experiencing their first International Convention. You'll hear attendees share... ·       What brought them to Vancouver and what surprised them once they arrived. ·       Their takeaways from the educational sessions and World Championship of Public Speaking. ·       The people and moments that inspired them. ·       What first-time attendees thought of the convention experience. ·       Why meeting friends, mentors and Toastmasters from around the world meant so much. ·       What they hope to take back to their clubs, districts and communities. Through all those different voices and experiences, one theme comes through again and again: Connection. Sometimes the most memorable convention moment wasn't a presentation at all. It was simply meeting another person. If you haven't already, we recommend listening first to Episode #307: Vancouver 2026: Our Highlights & Takeaways From the International Convention for Greg and Michael's highlights and takeaways from Vancouver.

[34:30] The 2026 Toastmasters International Convention brought 1,137 attendees, including 392 first-timers, to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in August for four days of learning, inspiration and connection under the theme Wide Open Communication. For this special episode, we're doing things a little differently. Greg is joined by fellow podcaster and 12-year Toastmaster Michael Dugan of Seattle, Washington, who travelled to Vancouver for his first International Convention. Together, they look back at some of the people, learning and memorable moments from Vancouver, with Michael adding the perspective of experiencing it all for the first time. Their conversation touches on the energy of the opening ceremonies, Jody Carrington's keynote, educational sessions, the World Championship of Public Speaking, Golden Gavel recipient Jennifer Moss, the convention sing-along, some of the things you may have missed, and much, much more. Along the way, Greg and Michael share their own takes on what stood out, what they learned, and a few of the unexpected moments that made the Vancouver experience memorable. Of course, listening isn't quite the same as being there. But if something catches your interest, many of the convention sessions are still available to watch on demand. But that's only Part 1. In Episode #308, Vancouver 2026: Let's Hear From International Convention Attendees  our bonus companion episode, we're turning the microphone over to the attendees themselves. Greg and Michael spoke with Toastmasters from around the world in Vancouver, including many first-timers, to find out what brought them to convention, what stood out, who inspired them, and what they'll take home from the experience. Special thanks to Michael Dugan, who was instrumental in helping make our two-part convention coverage possible. In addition to sharing his first-timer perspective, Michael shared the interviewing duties with Greg and provided a huge assist during the editing process. Michael is the host and producer of the Voice4Chefs podcast, which recently celebrated its fifth anniversary. Other Resources Mentioned Article: Communicators Connect at Convention 2026, Toastmaster magazine recap, SEP 2026 2026 International Convention / On Demand  Club Resuscitation Please – Kathy Draper, 26-page convention handout  Previous TMP interviews we promised to link Joel Schwartzberg — #298: Spotting & Resolving Generative AI Pitfalls for CommunicatorsStefano McGhee — #306: Doesn't Sit Still - Introducing 2026-27 International President Stefano McGhee, DTM.Morag Mathieson — #270: Celebrating Women in Leadership and Toastmasters' Impact. Also links back to her original #236 International President interview.Aletta Rochat — #282: Inviting Opportunity: Meet 2025-2026 International President Aletta Rochat, DTMLuisa Montalvo — #260: Luisa Montalvo — 2024 World Champion of Public SpeakingJennifer Moss — #299: Championing Workplace Well-Being: Meet the 2026 Golden Gavel RecipientBlake Carver & Bambi Cash — #278: How to Take Great Photos: The Do's, Don'ts & TipsCarole Murphy and Tom Jones  #301: Meet the 2026 Int'l Convention, Vancouver Canada Co-Chairs – Carole Murphy & Tom Jones Photo: Past Int'l President, Deepak Menon, Michael Dugan & Greg Gazin

[33:03] Meet Distinguished Toastmaster Stefano S. McGhee, the 2026–2027 Toastmasters International President from Weymouth, Massachusetts. A senior IT executive and Toastmaster since 2005, Stefano is also an aviation enthusiast, motorcyclist, and yacht club leader who readily admits that becoming International President was never part of his original plan. On today's episode, we explore Stefano's journey from reluctant guest to International President and the experiences that shaped his approach to communication and leadership. He shares how tagging along to his wife's club eventually led him to join, although one fellow member apparently predicted where he was headed long before he did. He also reflects on the confidence he gained through Toastmasters and why continually asking "why" has become central to how he leads. He also talks about the impact we can have when we see potential in others before they see it themselves, and why giving someone our time and confidence can be one of the most valuable gifts we offer. Listeners will also hear... His approach to making complex, data-heavy information understandable and relatable.Why asking "why" can be such a powerful leadership tool.How helping someone move from "I can't" to "I can" can change a life.Why he believes the future of Toastmasters rests in its clubs.His challenge to clubs to support every member in achieving excellence.Laura Amann's profile, "Meet Stefano McGhee, DTM, 2026–2027 International President: Doesn't Sit Still," can be found in the September 2026 issue of Toastmaster magazine. About Stefano McGhee Stefano S. McGhee, DTM, has been a Toastmaster since 2005. His home club is Network Voice Toastmasters in Weymouth, Massachusetts. A senior IT executive, he holds a master's degree in Military Operational Arts and Sciences. He is also a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, a yacht club leader, and an avid motorcycle enthusiast. Born in Italy, Stefano lives in Weymouth, Massachusetts, USA with his wife, Jennifer. They have a son, Tucker who attends the University of New Hampshire, and a beagle named Trevor. Stefano can be reached at [email protected].

[34:44] We've all heard the old cliché about first impressions. But what if the biggest lesson isn't about making a better first impression at all? In this episode, Accredited Speaker Lauren Parsons challenges us to think differently about those first 30 seconds, explaining why they're really about building trust, creating connection, and focusing on your audience rather than yourself. Drawing on her years of professional speaking and presentation experience, Lauren shares practical strategies for preparing with purpose while remaining authentic in the moment. Greg also explores what goes through a speaker's mind during those opening moments, leading to an honest discussion about self-consciousness, nerves, and why shifting our attention from ourselves to the audience changes everything. Lauren also shares why audiences are generally far more supportive than we often imagine when things go awry. Whether you're delivering a speech, leading a meeting, interviewing for a job, or simply introducing yourself, you'll come away with practical ideas to help you connect more authentically when those first moments matter most. Listeners will also hear... Why the first 30 seconds actually begin before you speak.What many speakers are thinking during those opening moments, and how to shift that mindset.Lauren's TEDx experience and what it taught her about authentic presence.How to prepare thoroughly without sounding rehearsed.Practical techniques for calming nerves before stepping on stage.What to do when technology or unexpected challenges threaten your presentation.Why audiences are usually cheering for you, not judging you.Lauren's four-question framework for preparing presentations that connect.How these same principles apply to meetings, job interviews, networking, and everyday conversations.Lauren Parsons' article, "Make the First 30 Seconds Count: First Impressions Matter... Be Sure You're Making a Positive One," can be found in the July 2026 issue of the Toastmaster magazine. About the Guest Lauren Parsons, DTM, became an Accredited Speaker in 2024 and has been a Toastmaster since 2014. She is a speaker and wellbeing specialist with more than 20 years of experience and was named New Zealand Keynote Speaker of the Year. Lauren is also a Certified Speaking Professional, TEDx speaker, author, and host of the Thrive TV Show & Podcast. She is passionate about helping people thrive while inspiring leaders to create healthier, more resilient workplaces. Lauren lives near on her lifestyle farm just north of Wellington, New Zealand, where she lives with her husband, three daughters, and a menagerie of animals and can be reached through LinkedIn, or through her website, Lauren Parsons Wellbeing.com, where you can find hundreds of articles and her podcast, The Thrive TV Show. Other Resources Mentioned Toastmasters Podcast #266: Meet Lauren Parsons, Toastmasters' 2024 Newest Accredited SpeakerLauren’s, Ted Talk, Toastmasters Podcast: #250 Nick Bendel - 500 Lunches with Strangers, Toastmasters Podcast: #294 Nick Bendel – Beyond 500 Lunches - Lessons on Achieving Anything. .

[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 Yu Bruce 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 Yu Our club’s: Website: https://seadragonsgavel.org/ Volunteer opportunities page (Idealist.org): seadragonsgavel.org/volunteer Speech 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/connect Promotional video by Richard E. Peck: https://youtu.be/RkZrbhReG1E?si=sE3ysww3mewETroX Promotional video by Mark Brown: https://youtu.be/e4tlpWN1Vzs?si=XexqUngMSjFnKbMY

[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 Suneet Suneet 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 [email protected]. For more information about ART Advanced Royal Toastmasters (ART), or to arrange a club visit, email [email protected]. (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.

[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 change You 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 Mendes António 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.ajs LinkedIn: ajsmendes.

[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 NOW Convention 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-Chairs 2.     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

[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-host Some 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 Gazin Greg 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.

[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 skills Jennifer 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.

[31:42] Generative AI can help you work faster and sharpen your message, but only if you stay in control. In this episode, Greg Gazin speaks with Joel Schwartzberg about how to spot and resolve common AI pitfalls so your communication remains clear, credible, and authentic. Joel approaches AI as a tool—useful, but not a replacement for decision-making. It can improve clarity and efficiency, but it doesn’t understand your priorities, your audience, or your voice. AI is a powerful assistant, but a poor decision-maker without human guidance. For Toastmasters, that distinction matters. Whether you are preparing a speech or refining an idea, AI can produce something polished that still misses the point. The value comes when you use AI to improve your thinking and not replace it. Joel’s article, 7 Generative AI Pitfalls for Communicators; How to spot and resolve these blind spots before they cost you clarity and trust, appears in the March 2026 issue of the Toastmasters Magazine.  Listeners will hear… • Why using AI does not make you a fraud as a communicator • How AI can improve your writing when used properly • How to spot and resolve common AI “Achilles heels” • Why authenticity flaws matter—and how to sound like yourself • How AI misplaces priorities and what to do about it • Why running your content through AI is like using a pasta maker AI can help you communicate more clearly and efficiently. But the message is still yours to shape. Your voice and experience are what make it connect. Joel will also be presenting at the Toastmasters International Convention in Vancouver, Canada, on Friday, August 21 at 3:30 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time, sharing insights on clear, focused communication. You may also enjoy his previous appearance: Stop Talking, Start Connecting: The Cure for Overspeaking (Episode #268) About Joel Schwartzberg Joel Schwartzberg, a long-time communications coach, a speechwriter, and the author of Get to the Point! Simplify, Sharpen, and Sell Your Message. And The Language of Leadership: How to Engage and Inspire Your Team.\ He’s a former U.S. national and state champion in collegiate public speaking, and was inducted into the National Forensic Association Hall of Fame in 2002. Joel’s insights on effective communication have been featured in many publications, including Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, CNBC, Newsweek, and Inc.com, as well as the Toastmaster magazine. Joel Schwartzberg lives in New Jersey and can be reached at: www.joelschwartzberg.net.

[26:51] What happens when students are given a real stage and someone willing to guide them there? In this episode, Greg Gazin speaks with CeCe Espeut about helping students step onto South Florida’s TEDx Miramar stage and what unfolded along the way. CeCe Espeut, a two-time TEDx speaker, five-time Distinguished Toastmaster, and creator of TEDx Miramar, brought together Toastmasters to mentor students preparing for their first talks. What began as a simple idea quickly became something more for the students, the mentors, and for CeCe herself. Using a one-to-one mentoring approach, each student was paired with a Toastmaster. But it didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t just about coaching speeches. It was about learning how to listen, adapt, and meet each person where they are. Listeners will hear… How a one-to-one mentor model changed the dynamic for both students and coachesWhy “no crying allowed” forced mentors to rethink how they give feedbackThe surprising difference between youth talks and adult TEDx ideasHow experienced speakers had to adapt—fast—to truly connectWhat “accomplishment bonding” looks like—and why it mattersSome of the biggest shifts didn’t happen on stage. They happened in the way people communicated—with each other, and with themselves. And in the end, it wasn’t just about the talks—it was about what it took to get there. Youth didn’t just find their voice. They helped others rediscover theirs. CeCe is featured in the March 2026 Toastmaster Magazine article Youth Take the Stage: South Florida Toastmasters Help Young People Find Their Voice with TEDxMiramar Youth by Kate McClare. About CeCe Espeut CeCe Espeut is a two-time TEDx speaker, five-time Distinguished Toastmaster, and creator of TEDx Miramar. A former U.S. Marine, she is also an author and leadership mentor dedicated to helping others find and share their voice. She has been a Toastmaster since 2016, is a past Division Director, and a member of three clubs in District 47. CeCe lives in Miramar, Florida and can be reached at: [email protected]. Additional Resources: CeCe refers to Zone of Genius. You can also listen to Toastmasters Podcast Episode #285: Leading from Your Zone of Genius: Aligning Work with Passion, with Katie Stoddart.

[28:53]  Across parts of Africa, Toastmasters has seen double- and even triple-digit growth over a 10-year period—at a time when global membership has slightly declined. So what changed—and why did it stick? Frank Tsuro shares his experience, what contributed to that growth, and what others can learn—while offering a closer look at Africa and Toastmasters across the continent. Frank puts the growth into perspective, explaining that it was years in the making—built on long-term thinking, leadership continuity, and a willingness to expand beyond familiar territory. He also points to a shift in how growth was approached—moving beyond simply adding clubs to thinking more strategically about how they support each other. That helped address one of the key challenges he describes: isolation, where single clubs struggled to sustain momentum on their own. At the same time, Toastmasters met a real need. In many parts of Africa, people conduct business in English or French—even when those aren’t their first languages. It provided an accessible way to build communication skills, connect across cultures, and invest in personal growth—while opening the door for more people to step into leadership. You can read Paul Sterman’s article, Africa’s Ascent: The continent has soared in Toastmasters growth, visibility, and performance, in the April 2026 issue of the Toastmaster magazine. You can also check out Family Ties and Toastmasters: Joining a Club Together Strengthens Bonds and Boosts Communication in the December 2025 issue. Listeners will hear… What drove double- and triple-digit Toastmasters growth across parts of AfricaWhy a multi-year plan created momentum that carried across leadership teamsHow one leadership visit helped shift the trajectory of an entire regionWhy growing areas—not just individual clubs—leads to more sustainable successHow isolation can impact clubs—and what helps them stay strongHow younger leaders contributed to the growth and energy across the continentFrank’s perspective reminds us that meaningful growth comes from consistency, shared vision, and people willing to step forward. Along the way, it also offers a deeper appreciation for the diversity and potential across Africa—and the role Toastmasters can play. About Frank Tsuro Frank Tsuro works with first-generation leaders—individuals who have risen through talent and determination but were never handed the traditional leadership playbook. He has been a Toastmaster since 2012, is a Past International Director, and is a dual member of the Entrepreneurs Club and L’Avenir Toastmasters in Johannesburg. He lives between Harare, Zimbabwe, and Johannesburg, South Africa. Frank Tsuro lives between Harare, Zimbabwe, and Johannesburg, South Africa, and can be reached via Facebook and LinkedIn or email: [email protected]