In this debut episode of A.D. Insights Podcast, host Jim Zboran sits down with Kelly Gaskins, a first-time Toastmasters Area Director who’s redefining how to approach one of the most essential—and often intimidating—leadership tasks: the Club Visit Report.
Together, they unpack how to transform this task from a “checklist chore” into a tool of genuine leadership and club support. Kelly shares her practical process—from taking balanced notes to structuring insights with the Moments of Truth framework—and how she uses both observation and empathy to write reports that encourage and uplift clubs.
Listeners will discover how thoughtful preparation, organized note-taking, and a supportive mindset can make club visits more meaningful while strengthening leadership skills along the way. Whether you’re a new Area Director or a seasoned one looking to sharpen your approach, this episode delivers grounded wisdom, real examples, and a fresh perspective on servant leadership in action.
Shownotes with Time Stamps
0:01 – 0:30 — Welcome to A.D. Insights Podcast
Jim introduces the show’s purpose: exploring the art of leadership “from the middle,” connecting clubs, leaders, and members.
0:31 – 1:49 — Introducing the Topic & Guest
Jim introduces the theme—how to tackle the daunting Club Visit Report—and welcomes guest Kelly Gaskins, a first-time Area Director and dedicated Toastmaster from Centene Speaks.
1:50 – 5:30 — Getting Started & Using Past Reports
Kelly describes her first experience as an Area Director, referencing past reports from her predecessor for guidance and integrating project-management skills into her process of careful observation and structured note-taking.
5:31 – 6:48 — The Power of Simple Note-Taking
Kelly explains her straightforward system—one sheet, positives on one side, negatives on the other—to capture meeting observations clearly and visually.
6:48 – 8:49 — Using “Moments of Truth” as a Framework
Kelly shares how she uses Toastmasters International’s Moments of Truth document to guide her evaluations, ensuring each report aligns with club success standards.
8:49 – 10:12 — Learning to Take Better Notes
Discussion on adapting note-taking styles—detailed or concise—to match personal learning preferences and how repetition across visits improves the process.
10:17 – 11:35 — Incorporating the Club Success Plan
Kelly discusses reviewing Club Success Plans when available and following up with club officers to ensure continuity between visits.
11:36 – 14:22 — Don’t Let Perfectionism Block Progress
Practical encouragement for new Area Directors: focus on being supportive rather than perfect. Reports should be useful, not intimidating.
14:22 – 16:50 — Balancing Praise and Improvement
Kelly shares how she pairs every positive with at least one constructive suggestion, emphasizing that “simple, supportive, and specific” is better than long and complex.
16:51 – 18:45 — Giving Hope and a Path Forward
Jim observes how Kelly’s tone naturally inspires clubs, even when addressing challenges. Kelly reflects on the value of encouragement and kindness in leadership communication.
18:46 – 21:43 — Creating a Supportive Area Team Culture
The conversation expands to team leadership—how supportive reporting strengthens collaboration and shared learning across the entire area.
21:43 – 24:45 — Coaching New Area Directors & Using AI Tools
Kelly shares how she mentors others using example reports and introduces Microsoft Copilot as a writing refinement tool for tone and clarity.
24:45 – 27:04 — The Ideal Writing Workflow
Her process: complete notes during the visit, write within a week, use Moments of Truth as a checklist, then polish the tone with Copilot before submission.
27:05 – 29:59 — Overcoming Procrastination & Embracing Leadership Growth
Final reflections on how doing the reports—imperfectly at first—builds both confidence and leadership skills. Kelly reframes the Club Visit Report as a living exercise in mentorship and servant leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Start simple: Focus on support, not perfection.
- Use frameworks: The Moments of Truth document is your best friend.
- Take thoughtful notes: Separate positives and opportunities for improvement.
- Stay timely: Write reports within a week while details are fresh.
- Adopt a growth mindset: Each visit strengthens both clubs and you as a leader.
