I was recently asked to appear on Region 10 TV to discuss upcoming District Council Meetings and how best prepare for them.This was a new challenge for me, firstly doing a TV interview and secondly trying to cover a broad topic in under twenty minutes.One of the tips I received from the broadcasters was to … Read more
Many people join Toastmasters to hone their skills as a speaker but many also have a dream that perhaps they might be able to deliver a Tedx talk. My story shares how this is possible and how Toastmasters supported me in doing just that last year. How Toastmasters Helped Me Take the TEDx Stage Nine … Read more
In 2023, I went to my first Toastmasters conference in Liverpool for one simple reason – I’d made it to the semi-finals of the Evaluation Contest. That morning, I’d signed a new coaching client… which paid for the trip. Talk about timing! Two weeks before, I’d been wild camping in Scotland. My boyfriend stayed there … Read more
Sustainability is often discussed in terms of the environment, but within organisations it has another equally important meaning: ensuring that systems, knowledge, and leadership are strong enough to continue even when key individuals are not present. In community organisations such as Toastmasters clubs, sustainability is essential for maintaining momentum, supporting members, and ensuring that meetings … Read more
I left a Toastmaster’s club because I felt unfulfilled. However, I did not want to leave Toastmasters. I mentioned to some toasties who were friends that I was thinking of setting up a club in my own locality. All of them said they were in and would help. I sourced a location and found the … Read more
In November 2025, Dundee Toastmasters successfully delivered a Speechcraft programme for international ATM company NCR Atleos at their UK offices in Dundee. The programme was led by Michèle Blackwood (Pathways Champion Div S) alongside fellow members Caroline Cooper, Claire Downie (Club President) and Julia Martineau (Area 43 Director). Participants were provided access to Speechcraft online … Read more
Building Our New Corporate Toastmasters Club: A Journey Worth Taking Over the last 18 months, I’ve had the privilege of successfully chartering a brand new Toastmasters corporate club where I work. Toastmasters at the BBC’s first official meeting took place on 21 October 2025, but the road to that moment was anything but simple. It … Read more
Day 1– The opening day brought together a combined Club Officer Training and round-table engagement. Participants repeatedly expressed that the sessions were unlike anything they had experienced before- dynamic, deeply engaging, and transformational in both content and delivery. The conversations surrounding club growth, member experience, leadership pipelines, and new club creation reflected a renewed enthusiasm … Read more
When I first joined Toastmasters. I thought the hardest part would be standing up and giving a Speech. But I quickly learned that Toastmasters is about so much more than speaking. One of the greatest gifts Toastmasters offers is mentorship. And I want to share why having a good mentor can make all the difference … Read more
The countdown to that decisive interview is only hours away. Success in the interview can open up a vista of advancements for you in your chosen field. Today strong interviewing skills are more important than ever. For you that journey begins with preparation for three reasons. 1. It helps you relax in body and mind. … Read more