SHILLING SPEAKERS

This month we have a jam packed episode for you! First up, our president Anthony Garvey talks to the inspirational Roger Ceasar. Then Ginny McNees reminds us of the joy and importance of play in our childhood. Finally Tamara Evans shares a beautiful piece drawing wisdom from philosopher Omar Khayyam. Tune in and enjoy!

In this month’s episode, we bring you the highlights of ourunforgettable Irish Night: You’ll hear a wonderful contribution from Cormac O’Sullivan , who is just 11 years old,  followed by a special interview led by our podcast host, Violeta Saladiene , with our newest Shilling Speakers member from Ireland Mary Kilgannon , as she shares her resilience story and journey. Let yourself be carried away...

In this special February episode, host Violeta Saladiene shares heartfelt highlights from our unforgettable Ukrainian Night at ShillingSpeakers. The evening brought together over 35 attendees on Zoom tocelebrate Ukrainian culture, traditions, music, and powerful personal stories. It was a night filled with resilience, warmth, and deep connection. You will hear contributions from Toastmasters Zoya...

This Christmas edition of the podcast brings festive curiosity, laughter, and a touch of magic. Ginny McNees chats with Violeta Saladiene whrere she asks a series of joyful Christmas questions. From childhood traditions and favourite festive foods to Christmas songs, films, pranks, and the weirdest presents ever unwrapped, the conversation is warm, playful, and full of nostalgic surprises. Then, T...

In this episode, our Club President, Anthony Garvey ,sits down with Luisa Montalvo , the 2024 World Champion of Public Speaking . Luisa opens up about her journey to the world stage — the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it takes to become a champion. We also hear from Virginia McNees , who shares her personal Pathways journey through her captivating Traveller’s Story . And...

In the spotlight this month is Yogendra Paranjpe , Division A Director from District 91, shares his remarkable journey from life at sea to a leadership path in Toastmasters - in conversation with a podcast host Violeta Saladiene . Plus, Tamara Evans reflects on the joy of contest season, and Ginny McNees serves up her special recipe for connection. Tune in to discover what ties it all together.

In our executive chair this month is a new club member AnneMarie Curtin straight from Dublin, Ireland. She shares her Toastmasters journey and claims it was one of the best decisions in her life. Also in this episode Tamara Evans unlocks the brain's hidden power and Ginny McNees shares how men can survive in the Mall.

Our main interview this month featues Daniel Magill, 2025winner of The District 91 International Speech Contest and atwo-time semi-finalist at The World Championships of PublicSpeaking. Daniel is sharing his experience behind the scienes of the World Championship. Also on the show Ginny McNees shares a story of sister Barbara and Tamara Evans explores why learning to say no can be one of the most...

In this episode, we begin with an inspiring interview with a storytelling coach Haritosh Srivastav who took a bold leap—leaving a secure job in the UK to return to India and follow his true passion. He opens up about facing uncertainty, doubt, and the unknown in pursuit of purpose. Then, you hear a thought-provoking speech by Tamara Evans, who explores the role of modern journalism through the len...

Our main interview this month features Colletor Gumbo, the 2025 District 71 International Speech Champion.  Colletor has been a Toastmasters' member for just one year and she shares some hints, tips and advice for how you could become a champion speaker too.  Also on the show, Laura Heathfield joins our podcast team and interviews new member, Fiona Donovan.  And expert speaker and friend of Sh...

Our main interview this episode features Ashley Tobin, a District 71 International Speech champion in 2020, who recently delivered a brilliant TEDx talk on the Menopause. Also in this episode, we hear from our brand new member, Florence Osuagwu and Laura Heathfield shares her icebreaker speech with us.  

Our main interview this episode features Rich Hopkins, an elective amputee, who is known for his 'Win Anyway' mentality.  Hear Rich's story as he battled his way to the Toastmasters' World final stage twice, finishing in third place in 2008.  Also on this episode, Huzefa Khan, shares her icebreaker speech with us.  And Angela Cook interviews our brand new member, Laura Heathfield.

Gerard Mannix, former District 71 Director, joins us in the executive chair and shares his views on the current state of Toastmasters.  Angela Cook interviews Andrew Graner, our latest new member and Audry Lowe shares some beautiful reflections on ranching.

In our Executive Chair this month is Femi Olulaja, Division E Director in District 91. A global citizen and renaissance man, Femi tells our Club President Violeta Saladiene, the life-changing experiences he gained both inside and outside of Toastmasters. Also on this episode, catch a tip-top quality speech 'Beyond Everest' from Olusola Olateju, which is evaluated by Anthony.

From next year, online competitors are banned from competing in the Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking. Hear the reasons why, from International President-Elect, Stefano McGhee and hear the reaction of our podcast host, Anthony Garvey. Also on the show, a cracking interview with Dr David Jones, six-time District table-topics champion and an excellent icebreaker speech from our newe...

If you want to be the Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking, these tips and hints from Fursey Gotuaco will be invaluable. Fursey was one of eight competitors in the Grand Final in Anaheim in August and he delivered a speech which brought the house down. His insights will help raise your speaking abilities to the next level. Also hear from Audrey Lowe and from Angela Cook as she talks to a...

Many of us would LOVE to attend a Toastmasters International Convention, but is it worth the time, effort and expense to travel around the world to attend? Hear the answer from our roving reporter, Paul O'Mahony, who made the long trek from Cork, Ireland to Anaheim, USA. Learn first-hand whether you should mark late August in your calendar for a trip to Philadelphia in 2025 or whether you shou...

This month we celebrate the magic of the Irish at the SHILLING SPEAKERS Toastmasters Club ! In this episode, we bring you an evening filled with Irish charm,captivating tales, and inspiring speeches. They say magic happens when the Irish gather, and we're ready to experience it. Get ready for an unforgettable experience featuring: ·  Mary Kate O Flanagan , a grand slam storytelling champion an...

This month's episode is incredibly inspiring and joyful as we mark the 4th birthday anniversary of the Shilling Speakers Club! Our host, Violeta Saladiene, kicks things off with words that will set your spirit soaring, followed by Angela Cook’s uplifting toast that perfectly captures the essence of our celebration. Paul Greenway adds a touch of Irish charm with his intriguing insights, while A...

This episode features a significant milestone of the podcast 2nd anniversary. Join us for a special episode that breaks away from our usual format, offering a unique glimpse into the journey that brought us here. In this milestone celebration, host Violeta Saladiene kicks things off with an energizing intro, setting the stage for an unforgettable exchange. Listen in as Paul Greenway engages in a c...

This month's episode promises to ignite your curiosity! Starting with roses crafted by Angela Cook and Audry Lowe, infused with unique perspectives. Then, Paul Greenway is set to sweep you off your feet with his rant: exploring a recent decision by TM International, that sends shockwaves through the communication world, as they decided to discontinue online and hybrid contests from 2024-2025 c...

This month, we've rolled out a special episode that's all about celebrating Ukraine! We recently had a Toastmasters meeting with a theme "111 Reasons to Love Ukraine"! The energy was electric, and the feedback? Absolutely stellar! Now, brace yourselves for some extracts from the evening’s impromptu speeches delivered by Antonia Harisson, Violeta Saladiene, and Anthony Garvey. Tru...

This month Audry Lowe speaks about world of youth communication trends, Angela Cook raises concerns about the obesity surge, while Violeta shares her jaw-dropping encounter with the Police!  Hold onto your seats as Paul Greenway interviews the phenomenal D91 Director, Diane Richardson, shedding light on Leadership and Tik Tok!   Don't miss out on Violeta Saladiene's Soap Box! 📣 Discover t...

This month Angela Cook enlightens us on toxic products we eat daily. Paul Greenway shares his thoughts about Scandinavia. Our special guest is Vijay Patel, a new member of our club. Vijay and Paul gets into discussion about MMA and UFC fighting. In our Soap Box this month is Vijay Patel sharing a very personal experience of 12 days of Christmas.

This month Audry Lowe takes up a new hobby - she learns how to transmit messages over the radio. Paul Greenway’s rant is a toast to both amateur speakers and actors. Violeta Saladiene interviews a special guest - DJ Justin, a keynote speaker, International Speech Contest Semifinalist, a filmmaker, and an actor. DJ Justin shares his thoughts about his Toastmaster’s journey, hot air balloon and what...