The Toastmaster's Experience

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

Evelyn Calaunan

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 colin@colinwilliams.com.au for the best deal.

His key advice? Join Toastmasters—and once you do, throw yourself into it fully.