The Toastmaster's Experience

Evelyn Calaunan
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"The Toastmaster's Experience," a podcast packed with valuable knowledge and motivation from real Toastmasters members. Each episode explores the transformative journeys of individuals who have used Toastmasters to overcome fears, enhance speaking abilities, and achieve personal growth. Discover actionable tips and techniques to improve your speaking and leadership skills.—PLEASE subscribe to "The Toastmaster's Experience" and start your journey toward becoming a more confident communicator and effective leader. "The Toastmaster’s Experience" - Get inspired by their insights.Please follow me on instagram   the_toastmasters_experiencehttps://www.instagram.com/the_toastmasters_experience/ New episodes are posted each Tuesday, always looking for current, past, newer, and long-term Toastmasters who would love to share their stories.🎙️Interviews can be recorded in my studio (only of course if you live near the Blue Mountains, NSW Australia 🇦🇺) , on Zoom or via my nifty portable H5 Zoom recorder. 😊🎧If interested in being interviewed please contact me 📧 evelyn@bluemountainscelebrant.com.au 🎙️

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    EP 58 - Vulnerability Over Perfection: Dean’s Story

    In this inspiring episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn interviews Dean, a relatively new Toastmaster from Quakers Hill Toastmasters Club, who has been a member for just eight months. Despite his short time in the organization, Dean has already made a strong impression, winning first place in Table Topics and second place in Evaluation at the Western Division competition. Dean shares a deeply personal story about his long struggle with anxiety and fear of speaking. While working in the federal government, he experienced intense panic in meetings and began relying on propranolol, a beta blocker, to manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. For years, he used it as a crutch for speeches, presentations, and even his wedding vows. Eventually, the shame of feeling dependent on medication became a turning point, leading him to seek a more lasting solution through Toastmasters. His first Icebreaker speech, delivered without propranolol, was a vulnerable retelling of that journey. The response he received, including a rare standing ovation, helped him realize that authenticity and vulnerability create the strongest connection with an audience. Throughout the conversation, Dean reflects on the power of telling personal stories, the importance of embracing discomfort, and the idea that confidence is built through repeated exposure rather than perfect conditions. Dean also offers practical tips for speech evaluation, including focusing on the speaker’s message, identifying strengths, and giving constructive recommendations. He speaks thoughtfully about modern communication, the disconnection caused by technology, and why vulnerability in speaking matters more than ever. Now completing a Master’s in Counselling, Dean hopes to help others overcome public speaking anxiety through his emerging venture, Asymmetry Coaching. The episode is a heartfelt reminder that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to move forward despite it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-ebejer-6a7442379/ Connect with Dean Ebejer and Asymmetry Coaching on LinkedIn

    38 min

  2. 12 APR

    EP 57 - Behind the Scenes Brilliance: The Sergeant at Arms Role

    In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn is joined by Charmaine Tully from Blue Mountains Toastmasters to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked yet vital role of the Sergeant at Arms. Drawing on their shared experience as Toastmasters and celebrants, they explore how thoughtful room setup can dramatically influence the energy, flow, and success of a meeting or event. Charmaine shares that stepping into the Sergeant at Arms role as a new member gave her a sense of contribution and ownership. What initially seemed like a simple role quickly revealed itself to be one of great responsibility and impact. She emphasises that while members may not consciously notice the setup, they certainly feel it. From table arrangements and aligned chairs to clear sightlines and well-placed lecterns, every detail contributes to creating a space where speakers can perform at their best. The conversation dives into practical tips, including removing excess chairs to avoid clutter, ensuring name tags and agendas are neatly presented, and positioning equipment like the lectern, timer, and audiovisual tools for seamless transitions. Charmaine highlights the importance of eliminating distractions—such as stacked chairs or visible clutter—and preparing technology in advance to avoid awkward pauses during meetings. They also explore how these principles apply across different venues, including those requiring full setup and pack-down. Charmaine suggests using diagrams, delegating setup tasks, and even bringing simple tools like wipes or tablecloths to elevate the environment. Small touches—like mints, pens, or gentle background music—can enhance the overall experience. Importantly, the discussion extends to Toastmasters competitions, where setup becomes even more critical. A calm, organised environment helps reduce anxiety for speakers and creates a professional atmosphere. Charmaine introduces the idea that our experience of a room is shaped first visually, then auditorily, and finally by how it makes us feel—often within seconds. Ultimately, this episode reminds us that excellence in Toastmasters goes beyond speaking. By mastering the unseen details, the Sergeant at Arms plays a crucial role in creating an environment where confidence, connection, and communication can truly flourish.

    25 min

  3. 29 MAR

    EP 56 - Beyond the Podium: Allan Rees-Bevan, SpeakEasy and a Life of Impact

    In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn speaks with Allan Rees-Bevan, a long-time Toastmaster whose story is both inspiring and deeply practical. Alan shares that he has been involved in Toastmasters for 35 years, joining at the age of 19 after being strongly encouraged by his grandfather. At the time, he was lacking confidence, struggling at university, and terrified of public speaking. What began as something he resisted became one of the most transformative influences in his life. A major theme of the conversation is that Toastmasters is not just about becoming a better speaker within the club — it is about becoming better at life. Alan explains that the communication, presentation, evaluation, and leadership skills he developed through Toastmasters have shaped every stage of his professional journey. He credits these skills with helping him earn promotions, step into management roles, and build confidence in the workplace. Alan discusses two passion projects: Speakeasy, a community speaking event that blends in-person and international speakers around monthly themes, and Chatter Camp, a children’s public speaking camp that helps young people build confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Both projects reflect Alan’s desire to create spaces where people can grow, connect, and find their voice. The episode closes with Alan’s strong belief that communication skills are more important than ever in today’s world — especially in an age of AI. While technology may replace many tasks, he believes human skills such as speaking, empathy, leadership, and connection will remain invaluable. His advice is simple and powerful: visit a club, find one you love, join, and stay. Contact Details  Allan Rees-Bevan https://www.linkedin.com/in/reesbevan/  SpeakEasySpeakingEvents@gmail.com   SpeakEasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakeasy.events/   Chattercamp: https://chattercamp.info

    29 min

  4. 21 MAR

    EP 55 - The Heartbeat of Toastmasters: VPE Insights

    In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn highlights one of the most impactful leadership roles in any club—the Vice President Education (VPE). Joined by Charmaine Tully from Blue Mountains Toastmasters, the conversation explores how this role shapes both meetings and member growth. ⭐️ Charmaine describes the VPE as the driving force behind the club’s educational journey—planning agendas, tracking Pathways progress, and encouraging members to step up and participate. At its core, the role is about creating opportunities and gently supporting members to “feel the fear and do it anyway.” 🎧 A key focus is the power of a well-crafted meeting. Charmaine shares how she introduced creative segments like “Tips and Tricks,” “Poetry Moments,” and “Aha Moments,” giving members more ways to contribute and connect. These additions, along with the inclusion of an Acknowledgement of Country, help set both a meaningful tone and an inclusive environment. 🎙️ The episode also reflects on how Toastmasters is evolving, with many new members joining to refine existing communication skills. Charmaine emphasizes the importance of encouragement, recognition, and creating a space where everyone feels valued. ⭐️ Ultimately, this conversation highlights that Toastmasters is more than public speaking—it’s a supportive community. Through thoughtful leadership, the VPE plays a vital role in fostering confidence, connection, and growth, both inside the club and beyond. 🎧     #thetoastmastersexperience #selfdevelopmentpodcast #getinspired #toastmasters #podcast #getinspiredbytheirinsights #spotifypodcast #applepodcast

    31 min

  5. 12 MAR

    EP 54 - Surprise! Michael Said Turns the Mic on Evelyn

    In this very special episode of The Toastmasters Experience, the microphone is unexpectedly turned on the host herself. Toastmaster Michael Said surprises Evelyn by stepping in as interviewer, asking the questions she normally asks others. With no preparation and no idea what was coming, Evelyn suddenly finds herself sharing her own story. In this candid conversation, Evelyn reflects on her 20-year Toastmasters journey, why she first joined while becoming a celebrant, and how Toastmasters helped her become a more confident communicator. She also shares stories from her fascinating career path—from Delta Airlines flight attendant, to moving to Australia, owning a tour company in the Blue Mountains, and eventually becoming a celebrant and podcast host. They discuss how podcasting has sharpened her speaking skills, the memorable Toastmasters she has interviewed, and why storytelling and human connection are at the heart of every Toastmasters meeting. It’s a warm, insightful, and unexpected episode where the host becomes the guest. #Toastmasters  #ToastmastersInternational  #ToastmastersExperience  #PublicSpeaking  #CommunicationSkills  #LeadershipDevelopment  #PodcastInterview  #SpeakerDevelopment  #Storytelling  #PersonalGrowth  #PodcastLife

    24 min

  6. 3 MAR

    EP 53 - District 70 Conference with Mitsie

    In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn welcomes Mitsie to discuss the upcoming District 70 Conference, taking place from 1–3 May at the Campbelltown Catholic Club. District conferences are a highlight of the Toastmasters calendar, bringing members together for a dynamic weekend of education, networking, leadership updates, and speech contests. Mitsie, a Toastmaster of over 13 years and member of Rockdale Communicators and Cronulla RSL, shares her journey. She joined Toastmasters seeking experiential growth and community after feeling stagnant professionally and relocating to a new area. Her involvement led her to serve as District 70 Director from 2022–2023, navigating the challenges of post-COVID hybrid meetings. She credits Toastmasters with enhancing both her technical leadership skills—supporting her rise to IT and Communications Officer in her workplace—and her personal confidence, transforming her from a shy back-row member into a poised speaker who even emceed a wedding. Mitzi’s advice to prospective members is simple: say yes, get involved, and commit for at least a year—you’ll be amazed at the growth. This year’s conference theme, “Take the Stage,” encourages members to step up—not only in contests but also as facilitators, entertainers, and volunteers. Highlights include keynote appearances by Past International President Balraj Arunasalam and 2025 World Champion of Public Speaking Sabyasachi Sengupta, along with professional development workshops, a Youth Leadership Showcase, a revamped contest schedule, a gala dinner featuring member entertainment, a club banner parade, and an interactive World Café workshop. Conference Details - 1-3 May 2026 Campbelltown Catholic Club WEB: https://www.toastmastersd70.org/2026-annual-conference EMAIL: annconf1@toastmastersd70.org

    17 min

  7. 15/10/2025

    EP 52 - A Toast to 30 Years: City of London Toastmasters in Action

    In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, I take you to the heart of London to visit City of London Toastmasters, a club that will be proudly celebrating its 30th Anniversary in November. 🎉 During my visit, I had the chance to sit down with passionate members, enthusiastic guests from other London clubs, and even a Toastmaster visiting from China 🌏. The evening was buzzing with energy as the club hosted its Table Topics and Humorous Speech Contest — a reminder that every great competition begins at the club level, where members take that brave first step to test their skills, share their stories, and stretch beyond their comfort zones. 💪✨ As Toastmasters, we know that contests aren’t just about winning — they’re about growth, connection, and celebrating the courage to stand and speak. And visiting clubs while travelling is one of the most enriching parts of our journey — a chance to see how others meet, learn, and lead in their own unique style. If you ever find yourself in London, you can visit City of London Toastmasters at St Botolph’s Church, Aldgate High Street, EC3N 1AB — right next door to Aldgate Station or just a short walk from Liverpool Street Station. Meetings are held in person on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Tuesdays of each month, and guests are always welcome. 🌟 Tune in for a lively celebration of learning, laughter, and the global spirit of Toastmasters! 🎤🇬🇧   https://www.cityoflondontoastmasters.org/

    23 min

  8. 29/08/2025

    EP 51 - The Resource Round-Up: 8 Toastmasters Share Their Favorites

    On The Toastmasters Experience, I love shining a light on one powerful question: 💡 “What books, podcasts, tools, or routines have shaped your self-development?” In this special compilation, you’ll hear from eight inspiring voices—each with a unique perspective on where they turn for wisdom, confidence, and inspiration. 🎙️ Lana (Ep. 24) shares how following domestic politics and programs like Insiders and The Party Room sharpened her listening and speaking skills. 🎙️ Vicki (Ep. 26) turns to TED Talks and speech and drama lessons as resources that expand her speaking repertoire beyond the club room. 🎙️ Roger (Ep. 34) credits mentors like Craig Valentine, Simon Sinek, and Eric Thomas for fueling his energy and growth. 🎙️ Jody (Ep. 35) — Sparked by Brené Brown’s Power of Vulnerability, Jody stepped into deeper, more authentic storytelling. She also recommends William Whitecloud’s The Secrets of Natural Success, and finds ongoing inspiration in Lewis Howes, Brendon Burchard, Gabby Bernstein, and Gabor Maté. 🎙️ Frankie (Ep. 39) — A bedside staple: James Clear’s Atomic Habits—especially habit stacking and trigger design. For podcasts, Frankie rotates Diary of a CEO, Chris Williamson’s Modern Wisdom and Andrew Huberman for science-backed performance. 🎙️ Ramona (Ep. 44) — Two words: Nancy Levin. Her book Worthy reframed Ramona’s self-worth and pricing (a recommendation via Craig Valentine). A must-read for anyone who senses a gap between talent and income. 🎙️ Marc (Ep. 46) — A teacher at heart, Marc’s communication canon includes Carmine Gallo’s Talk Like TED, Nancy Duarte’s Resonate, James C. Humes’ Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln, and Chip Heath’s Made to Stick—practical blueprints for memorable messaging. 🎙️ Maria (Ep. 50) — Oprah & Dr. Bruce Perry’s What Happened to You? shifts the lens from “what’s wrong” to “what happened,” deepening empathy in education and in club culture. She also highlights Head & Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership by Kirstin Ferguson, championing service-first leadership that empowers others. 🎧 If any of these spark curiosity, dive back into their full episodes for the complete stories and strategies.

    14 min
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About

"The Toastmaster's Experience," a podcast packed with valuable knowledge and motivation from real Toastmasters members. Each episode explores the transformative journeys of individuals who have used Toastmasters to overcome fears, enhance speaking abilities, and achieve personal growth. Discover actionable tips and techniques to improve your speaking and leadership skills.—PLEASE subscribe to "The Toastmaster's Experience" and start your journey toward becoming a more confident communicator and effective leader. "The Toastmaster’s Experience" - Get inspired by their insights.Please follow me on instagram   the_toastmasters_experiencehttps://www.instagram.com/the_toastmasters_experience/ New episodes are posted each Tuesday, always looking for current, past, newer, and long-term Toastmasters who would love to share their stories.🎙️Interviews can be recorded in my studio (only of course if you live near the Blue Mountains, NSW Australia 🇦🇺) , on Zoom or via my nifty portable H5 Zoom recorder. 😊🎧If interested in being interviewed please contact me 📧 evelyn@bluemountainscelebrant.com.au 🎙️

Information

  • Creator
    Evelyn Calaunan
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Toastmaster's Experience
  • Show Website
    The Toastmaster's Experience

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