The Toastmaster's Experience
"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.
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New episodes are posted each Tuesday, always looking for current, past, newer, and long-term Toastmasters who would love to share their stories.
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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. 😊
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If interested in being interviewed please contact me 📧 evelyn@bluemountainscelebrant.com.au
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The Toastmaster's Experience
EP - 50 - Maria’s Message: Find Your Voice, Change Your Life
Maria’s Toastmasters journey began in 2009 after a staff retreat conversation made her realise she had no hobbies outside of work and family life. Caring for her husband after a major accident and raising three children had left little time for herself. Remembering her love of speaking, she found Bosley Park Toastmasters — and has been active ever since, now belonging to four clubs, including one in Canada.
Her leadership path evolved naturally, serving as Club Growth Director, then Program Quality Director, and potentially District Director. For Maria, leadership is about giving back to an organisation that has provided her with national and international speaking opportunities, co-author credits, and professional growth.
She values Toastmasters’ role in preparing people — especially youth — for real-world communication, from job interviews to personal branding. She notes the decline of public speaking in schools and urges clubs to deliver consistent, high-quality meetings to retain new members.
Maria is also a seasoned competitor, achieving district-level success, and treasures speeches that inspire, such as her speech about her father about the power of touch. She believes everyone has a voice worth developing, shaped by life experiences — often linked to past discouragement.
Her advice: Join, persevere, and use Toastmasters as a safe space to grow confidence and connection. Speaking, she says, is not just a skill — it’s a lifeline to opportunity and belonging.