The Toastmaster's Experience

• EP 46 - From Brooklyn to the Big Stage with Marc Williams

  cIn this inspiring episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Marc Williams—educator, speaker, and three-time Toastmasters International Speech Contest finalist—shares his 14-year journey with Toastmasters, starting with a simple DVD recommendation that sparked a life-changing pursuit. From his first hesitant visit to LIU Brooklyn Toastmasters to standing on the world stage multiple times, Marc’s path is one of purpose, passion, and personal growth.Marc reveals that his entry into Toastmasters wasn’t just about public speaking—it was about discovering a supportive community that became like family. While professional development was an unexpected bonus, the deepest impact came from relationships formed along the way. He highlights the importance of competing, describing it as a fast track to growth. Despite not working with one formal coach, Marc credits a circle of mentors—fellow Toastmasters and seasoned champions—who helped him shape and refine his voice.Beyond Toastmasters, Marc discusses founding Speaker Skills Academy, a virtual community co-led with friend and fellow coach Cathey, where members develop micro-skills through engaging, gym-like sessions. His message to listeners: Toastmasters is more than a place to reduce filler words or perfect delivery—it’s a space to find your voice, your people, and potentially, your calling.Whether you’re new to public speaking or a seasoned pro, this episode is a reminder of the life-changing power of showing up, saying “hello,” and daring to share your story.

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• EP - 45 - Mark Walker’s Legacy as District 90 Toastmasters Director

  Mark, a seasoned Toastmaster of 20 years, joined in 2005 to sharpen his presentation skills for his medical career. A psychiatrist by profession, Mark has since embraced both the communication and leadership aspects of Toastmasters. He is a dedicated member of multiple clubs, including Glenbrook, Enhanced, Penrith CBD, and the online Koala Communicators Club.Mark has held significant leadership roles over the years, including Area Director, Western Division Governor, and twice District Director for District 90. One of his proudest achievements was leading the district to Distinguished status—an accolade awarded at the international conference in Anaheim in 2024. His Toastmasters experience has empowered him to confidently chair hospital board meetings, emcee large conferences, and support the growth of clubs across regions.Passionate about mentoring, Mark actively encourages young professionals, including junior doctors, to improve their public speaking through speechcraft programs. He believes Toastmasters offers critical life skills, especially amid today’s challenges with digital communication and mental health pressures.Mark’s personal growth includes developing confidence, embracing inspirational speaking, and gaining flexibility under pressure (a skill he displayed as emcee at the recent District 90 Conference). Though stepping back from high-level leadership roles, Mark continues to support clubs and serve as a valuable resource.His final advice for anyone considering joining? “Just walk through the door. It’s a safe place to grow, try things, and discover how far you can go.” A powerful reminder of Toastmasters’ life-changing potential.

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• EP 44 - Still Standing Strong: Ramona J. Smith’s Journey

  What a delight interviewing, Ramona J. Smith, 2018 World Champion of Public Speaking. Motivated by a love of public speaking, she joined Toastmasters in 2010 to polish her communication skills—encouraged by her sister. She now belongs to Post Oak Toastmasters in Houston and strongly advocates for in-person meetings for their immersive energy.Her performance roots trace back to a vibrant childhood filled with dance, drama, and music, where presence and expression were second nature. Although she studied public relations, her passion for the stage remained constant. She began competing in 2014, reached the district level in 2015, and won the World Championship in 2018, guided by mentor Larry Sapansky. Ramona credits much of her success to staying authentic and understanding the audience—"your speech, but their message."Now a sought-after coach, her advice to competitors is to focus on fun, learning, and growth—not just the trophy. Ramona is active on social media Instagram and Facebook @RamonaJSmith1 and hosts a podcast, I Dream of Speaking on PodBean.   Her closing advice to anyone considering Toastmasters: “You should’ve joined yesterday.”

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• EP 43 - Colin Williams on Confidence, Cruises, and Connection

  Colin Williams, a seasoned Toastmaster and former speech competitor, shares how joining Toastmasters a decade ago became a turning point in his life. Initially drawn in by a newspaper ad and finally walking into Redlands Toastmasters after 20 years of procrastination, Colin instantly felt he had “found his people.” He went on to compete in speech contests, winning both the International and Humorous contests at District level and earning a spot as a semifinalist on the world stage in Los Angeles.Though now retired from competition, Colin continues to give back as a mentor and is set to become an area director in the near future.   He encourages others to say “yes” to new opportunities and figure it out later—a mindset that has led him into slam poetry, stand-up comedy, and  taking him aboard cruise ships as a resident historian and naturalist, roles he embraced with enthusiasm and study.Colin is also the author of Now That I Have Your Attention: How You Can Stand Out as a Speaker or Presenter, a guide filled with practical tips for connecting authentically with audiences. The book is ideal for corporate professionals, students, and anyone looking to elevate their communication skills. It can be purchased via Amazon, though Colin recommends ordering directly through him at [email protected] for the best deal.His key advice? Join Toastmasters—and once you do, throw yourself into it fully.

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• EP 42 - Radhi Spear Visits, District 70 Rises – A Toastmasters Conference to Remember

  In this special episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn takes you behind the scenes of the 2025 District 70 Conference, held at the Campbelltown Catholic Club from May 2–4. With her roving reporter style, Evelyn interviews key figures who helped shape the event, including members of the District 70 Trio, the Region 12 International Director, and the standout guest of honour—Toastmasters International President Radhi Spear.Radhi reflects on her global tour, visiting five districts over 40 days, and shares touching insights on leadership, connection, and her deep appreciation for the Toastmasters family. Evelyn also speaks with  Michael Said, who reflects on the historic District 70/90 split.Highlights - Listeners will  hear from Tucky Cooley, whose creative and heartfelt Acknowledgements of Country were highlights across all three conference days, Accredited speakers.  Dale Rees-Bevan and Lauren Parsons brought wisdom and energy to packed workshops, while the District Trio, Maria Pedavoli,  Sebastian Sebateur and District Director Mike Cano-McCallum reflect on the magic and meaning of this year's gathering.With humour, warmth, and heartfelt appreciation, this episode captures the essence of the 2025 District 70 Conference—celebration, connection, and the spirit of Toastmasters in its 100th year.

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