Episodes
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72. From fearing the stage to 2nd in the World Championship — we hear from Alexandre Matte!
This month Anthony Garvey talks to Alexandre Matte — the Canadian who went from fearing the stage to coming 2nd in the World Championship of Public Speaking! We also welcome our newest member Shaun Gurmin, and Tamara Evans shares her thoughts on the power of a smile. Tune in and enjoy!Hosted by...
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71. From seasoned speaker James McGinty to newest member Ciara — everyone's on their journey!
This month Anthony Garvey talks to James McGinty — a seasoned Toastmaster who loves a good Toastmaster contest! We hear from our newest member Ciara O'Connor. Finally Tamara Evans shares a thought leadership piece on happiness. Tune in and enjoy!
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70. From Nervous Speaker to World Finalist: Roger Ceasar Journey
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...
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69. Irish Night Highlights: Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day
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...
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68. Ukrainian Night: Voices of Strength and Culture
In this special February episode, host Violeta Saladieneshares 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...
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67. Unwrapping Christmas: Traditions, Pranks & a Cowboy Interview
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…
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66. Interview with Luisa Montalvo. Traveller's Story and the Power of Words
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…
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65. Navigating Change: from Marine Engineer to Division Director
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...
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64. Toastmasters Revolutionised My Communication at Work
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…
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63. Behind the Scenes of the World Championship of Public Speaking
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...
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62. The Storytelling Coach’s Leap: from the UK to India
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…
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61. Become a District Speech Champion in just 12 months!
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…
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60. From District Contest Winner to TEDx Speaker
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…
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59. Speaking Tips from a 3rd Place Speaker at the Toastmasters' World Finals
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...
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58. From Member to District Director
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.
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57. Share A Passion for Growth and Climb Your Personal Everest
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...
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56. Why Online members have been excluded from the World Championship
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…
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55. Want to be Toastmasters World Champion?
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...
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54. Toastmasters World Championship, featuring Brian Scally, Gisela Baeyens and Paul O'Mahony
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...
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53. Irish Night featuring Mary Kate O Flanagan Dr. Siobhan Fitzgerald, Sean Lyons
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...
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52. Celebrating Shilling Speakers' 4th Birthday
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…
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51. Special Episode: 2nd Podcast Anniversary
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...
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50. Shockwaves from TM International, Anne Doucette and Mesmerizing the UK Champion of 2023
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...
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49. Special episode: 111 Reasons to Love Ukraine
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…
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48. New Youth Trends, Obesity, Police and Tik Tok
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...
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47. Toxic Products, MMA fighting and 12 Days of Christmas
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...
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46. Amateur Speakers, Modern Texting and DJ Justin
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…
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45. Onions and Roses, Bamboo Houses and Frank Furness
This month we have started a new part in our podcast named Onions and Roses. Curious what is it? Listen and find out. Violeta interviewed a special guest - International Motivational Speaker Frank Furness and Audrey Lowe in the Soap Box speaking about Bamboo Houses.
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44. New Podcast Team, Stress, Whiskey and Disruption in Toastmasters
This month we have a new Podcast team: Angela Cook, Audry Lowe, Paul Greenway and Violeta Saladiene. Angela shares how to deal with stress, Audry describes silent generation, Violeta shares tips for storytelling strategies and Paul rants about motoring infringements in Ireland. Our special guest...
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43. King's Coronation, Walking Challenge and Swedish Horse
Violeta talks about the Anniversary of the Coronation of King Mindaugas that is a big deal in Lithuania; Philippa shares her thoughts on the UK history; our special guest James Finnegan, a TEDxTralee Curator and Coach shares his walking challenge of 1000 days; Violeta's humorous story.
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42. Oscars and Awards, Football and Bureaucracy
Philippa’s wise thoughts on how to help people; Violeta’s challenges on giving a speech when receiving an award; Andrea Righi, incoming Division A Director in D91, is our special guest - a big football fan and a guitar aficionado. Philippa’s Soap Box on Bureaucracy.
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41. Leadership, Personal Branding and TM Challenges
This week Violeta reflects on TM Pathway; Philippa shares her thoughts on Leadership; our special guest this week is Gerard Manix, DTM, past D71 District Director reveals his biggest challenges in Toastmasters and what outlets he enjoys ; Violeta is on the soap box talking about Personal Branding...
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40. How to do a TEDx Talk
Philippa shares her journey to being elected a Councilor, Paul talks about upcoming conference problems, Violeta reveals her thoughts on AI. Our special guest is Sam Warner, DMT and TEDx speaker, who shares her experience on Youth Leadership Programme and TEDx.
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39: As Patient as a Heron
Violeta is trying to get back the balance in life, Philippa enjoys living in the suburbs, Paul debates about storytelling. Our special guest this week is Phillip Khan-Panni, a Toastmaster, who won the District 71 title a record four times and the Silver Medal in the World Championship of Public...
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38: The Politics of Water
Paul, Phillipa and Violeta debate on Politics of Water in different countries. Our special guest is Ciaran Blair, a DTM and Humorous speech contest District winner. His winning speech on YouTube has had 83000 viewings in 80 countries. Just search for Ciaran Blair on YouTube, after you have…
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37: Our First Anniversary Celebration with special guest Ted Corcoran.
Violeta and Philippa celebrate our first year of podcasts with Paul O'Mahony, one of the launch team, Anthony Garvey, President of Shilling Speakers on the soapbox and our very special guest Ted Corcoran, author and former International President of Toastmasters International. Ted's three…
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36. Not everyone wants to go public on social media. This week's podcast features an anonymous interviewee, plus advice about caring for your voice and Violeta's soapbox
Don't take your speaking voice for granted. Listen to learn how to keep it is good condition. Plus what it can feel like to take part in Table Topics during a Toastmaster's meeting and a real-life story from Violeta.
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35. A Lighthearted Take on the Concept of Infinity
Pat and Philippa discuss the value of mistakes and Pat takes a lighthearted view on the concept of infinity for non-mathematicians. In Part 2, they follow up on Anthony Garvey's contest speech "Come to the Edge" and link it into Carol Bausor's ideas on limiting beliefs. In Part 3, Philippa is on...
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34. Poetry
Pat and Philippa discuss the value of poetry and then their favourite poems and Pat recites Yeats's The Stolen Child and then analyses it. Poems mentioned Aedh Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven, by W. B. Yeats Apple Blossom by Louis Mac Neice The Planter's Daughter, by Austin Clarke Stopping by the...
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33. Why you should read Toastmaster Magazine; Guest Eric Fitzpatrick; Pat's on why we should ask better questions
Violeta shares some of the good material to be found in Toaster magazine. Pat talks about his delayed evaluation project in his Masters of Evaluation Club and what he wants to achieve from it. Eric shares some thoughts about getting into business as a presenter and facilitator. Pat explains why…
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30. Teaching, speaking and thinking. Guest: Raouda Sakour. Pat on the soapbox on education
Philippa muses about teaching, Violeta wonders how to become a TEDx speaker, and Pat reflects on the impact of how we think. Philippa interviews Raouda Sakour and Pat is on the soapbox comparing school-goers' experience of participating in self-directed learning by creating projects for a science...
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23. There's a First Time for Everything. Interview with Alex Spencer-Hill
Paul on being distinguished with only four members; Philippa rediscovers her get up and go; Pat reflects on seeing the light and feeling the heat. Alex Spencer-Hill, Shilling's Area Director is our guest. Paul is on the soapbox talking about being a Toastmasters data nerd. The tools he refers to...
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32. Andrew Bennett, Language, Independence and a Story
We deviate a little from the format this week with Pat using the soapbox to tell a story rather than deliver a polemic. Violeta interviews Andrew and talks about independence, while Andrew and Pat have a discussion on how language shapes how we think.
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31. Spring is in the air!
This week's big ideas are about spring. Pat and Philippa talk about education and Violeta is on the soapbox on the three most important elements of a speech.
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29. How not to make small talk, education, self-development and a very special guest
The Shilling podcasters have varying degrees of expertise when it comes to small talk, Pat believes there is more to education that having a degree, and we are all in favour of a good-night's speech. Listen to the podcast to find out who our very special guest is.
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28. Cold weather, commit your ideas to paper and Richard Jennings interview part 2
Pat recommends committing your ideas to paper so others can scrutinize them, Philippa is affected by the cold weather, and part 2 of Violeta's interview with Richard Jennings
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27. An Interview with Richard Jennings Part 1 and Making the Most of Pathways
Listen to our Big Thoughts for the week, hear part 1 of Violeta's interview with Richard Jennings, an experienced Toastmaster based in San Diego, who has some fascinating stories to relate and let Pat tell you how to get the best from Pathways.
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26. The Power of Perseverance
Wise Words and Amazing Stories from the team and our special guest Cyril Mannion. To find out more about Cyril visit Captain Cyril – Adventures in Aviation Follow this link to get in touch with Shilling Speakers : Toastmasters - Toastmasters - Shilling Speakers :: Home (toastmasterclub.org)
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25. Violeta's First Podcast: How to be Creative
Introducing our new podcaster Violeta who gives us advice on how to make the most of our creativity
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24. Elections and Commitments
Paul explains how to be elected to an international role within Toastmasters, Philippa mulls over the gentle art of making commitments and we have a surprise interviewee
About this show
The official podcast from Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club in District 91 of Toastmasters International in the UK
Hosted by
Shilling Speakers Toastmasters Club
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