The Toastmasters Podcast

[18:37] Cara Wasden, a member of Toast of Petaluma Toastmasters in California, was diagnosed in high school with Tourette syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and sounds called tics. In this short interview, Cara scratches the surface of what it's like to live with Tourette's—every individual with this disorder lives with a variety of symptoms—and shares her experiences participating in speech contests and serving as a nature guide for students. If you would like to learn more about the often-misunderstood Tourette syndrome, visit http://tsa-usa.org.

[14:00] Andy Weissmann, ACB, ALB, competed on the American TV game show Wheel of Fortune, in which individuals vie for prizes by solving word puzzles. Andy talks about the show’s application process, what the taping was like, and how he did. He also discusses how Toastmasters helped prepare him for the spotlight.

[21:30] Caren S. Neile, Ph.D., ATMS, explores differences between men's and women's communication styles. Being aware of the differences is beneficial for men and women, because they can employ the best of both styles, adapting their speech patterns to specific situations and audiences.

[24:50] Ruth Nasrullah, ACB, ALB, shares information about eye contact and expressive body language. She provides tips on how to communicate effectively with your eyes, and explains the differing cultural attitudes regarding the issue of eye contact.

[24:50] As the world changes, Toastmasters International is changing with it. That means offering more and better opportunities to grow and learn. Toward that end, the organization has exciting news to share: After much thought, research and analysis, Toastmasters is revitalizing its education program. The new program, which is expected to debut in the second half of 2014, is one of the most significant Toastmasters projects in recent memory. It will offer a clearer path for education awards, provide a greater emphasis on real-life communication and leadership skills and maximize the use of online resources to help with self-directed learning.The Revitalized Education Program is being developed with the input and participation of members around the world. There are two groups of member volunteers: Learning Masters and Ambassadors. The Learning Masters are being led by Pat Johnson, Toastmasters’ 2010–2011 International President.Join Toastmasters International Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex and Past International President Pat Johnson as they discuss the organization’s Revitalized Education Program with Bo and Ryan.

[22:30] Looking for good speaking opportunities? Many such opportunities exist at college alumni events. Jennifer Cunningham, an expert on the topic, says alumni officials are often looking for speakers to share their insights and professional knowledge with recent college graduates. Cunningham is Cornell University's Senior Director of Metrics and Marketing in the Office of Alumni Affairs, which produces or supports 1,400 events per year around the world.

[42:25] Entrepreneur Sam Davidson; humorist and raconteur Conor Cunneen, DTM, AS; CEO and former Major League Baseball player Kent Maggard; 2013 Keynote Speaker Roger Love, one of the world’s leading authorities on voice and a voice coach for the stars of the mega-hit television show Glee; and Ed Tate, CSP and 2000 World Champion of Public Speaking, offer a sneak preview of the presentations they will deliver at the International Convention in August, in Cincinnati, Ohio. The convention’s 11 session presenters will offer tips and strategies related to leadership- and communication-themed topics.