The Toastmasters Podcast

[30:44] Meet Distinguished Toastmaster Aletta Rochat, the 2025–2026 Toastmasters International President from Cape Town, South Africa. Aletta is an inner life skills wisdom partner and certified coach, an accomplished author and global speaker who has delivered training in 21 countries. She also coaches TEDx speakers to craft messages that leave a lasting impact. In August 2025, she made history as the first International President from Africa and only the tenth woman in 100 years to lead Toastmasters International.

For more on women leading Toastmasters, hear Past International President Morag Mathieson, DTM, in #270: Celebrating Women in Leadership and Toastmasters’ Impact.

On today’s episode, President Rochat shares her remarkable Toastmasters journey—from discovering her “helium hand” that compels her to volunteer, to rising through club, district, and global leadership roles.

She reflects on the power of validation as a leadership tool and reveals practical strategies for making leadership easier, including the simple habit of sending voice-note thank-yous to team members.

She also discusses:

Read President Rochat's profile: "Meet Aletta Rochat, DTM, 2025–2026 International President: South African speech coach makes history," by Paul Sterman in the September 2025 issue of the Toastmaster magazine.

Photo Credit: KOA Photography

Eric Pittman’s life reads like an adventure novel. He began his career as a helicopter bush pilot in the wilds of Saskatchewan and British Columbia, building his first aircraft from wreckage to earn his wings. He later launched a glass recycling foundry, created choreographed light shows for royalty and rock stars, and eventually discovered a new obsession in his own backyard—filming hummingbirds.

That obsession led to The Bird in My Backyard, a short documentary featuring his high-speed hummingbird footage, which has racked up over 1.7 million YouTube views and earned a Canadian Screen Award nomination.

But Eric didn’t stop there. To promote his book, he staged an underwater press conference—complete with a puppet show—and broke a Guinness World Record in the process. He also co-founded the Canadian Orca Rescue Society with Gregg McElroy, raising awareness with life-sized inflatable orcas that now float above environmental rallies across British Columbia.

A long-time member of Thunderbird Toastmasters in Victoria, B.C., Eric credits Toastmasters with helping him eliminate crutch words, boost confidence, and speak effectively on camera and in public.

Whether you're a nature lover, creative soul, or just appreciate a great story, this episode will leave you inspired to think bigger—and bolder.

Listen now and discover:

• 
  

  How Eric filmed over 130 hummingbird nests from egg to flight

  
  


• 
  

  The hilarious origin of his underwater Guinness World Record

  
  


• 
  

  What it’s like to work with BBC, Netflix, and National Geographic

  
  


• 
  

  Why saving salmon is key to saving orcas

  
  


• 
  

  How Toastmasters helped him become a better presenter—and storyteller

  
  

You can read Eric’s story, From Helicopters to Hummingbirds: How One Toastmaster Used His Skills on Camera, Underwater and Beyond, by Megan Preston Meyer, in the August 2025 issue of Toastmaster magazine.

Eric Pittman is a member of Thunderbird Toastmasters in Victoria, B.C., a Guinness World Record holder, environmental advocate, and co-founder of the Canadian Orca Rescue Society. You can find his stunning footage at HummingbirdsUpClose.com and follow him on Facebook and Instagram under the same name.

You can also watch his documentary: Birds in My Backyard on YouTube.

Drawing on her two decades of experience in theatre and conflict resolution, Alice offers eye-opening insights for fostering connection over control, using negotiation to build life skills, and showing up with curiosity instead of judgment.

From funny anecdotes about coconut popsicles to powerful techniques based on Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication framework, Alice reminds us that great communication begins with listening—whether you’re talking to your teen, your Toastmasters club members, or your colleagues.

We also touch on her new book, Don't Sleep on the Couch – Negotiating with Your Spouse, and her podcast Negotiation with Alice.

Whether you're a parent, a mentor, or simply someone who wants to communicate better, this episode is packed with tools you can use today.

Listen now and discover:

• 
  

  The “two-choice” technique that diffuses arguments

  
  


• 
  

  How to open up authentic conversations without forcing them

  
  


• 
  

  Why negotiating with your kids today sets them up for life

  
  


• 
  

  What NOT to say when your teen says, “I hate my math teacher”

  
  


• 
  

  Why showing your own vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness

  
  

You can read Alice's article: Tips for Communicating With Your Teen, Using effective talking and listening skills benefits both of you, in the May 2025 Issue of the Toastmasters Magazine.

Alice Shikina is a mediator and negotiation/communication coach who handles divorces, workplace, and family conflicts. She draws on two decades of theater training in acting and directing to enhance her mediation work.

Some may remember Alice from the 100th anniversary Toastmasters International Convention, where she presented on conflict resolution. In June 2025, she received the Peacemaker Award from Community Boards in San Francisco for her work in mediation and conflict resolution.

She’s the author of Negotiating with Your Kids and is currently writing her second book, Don't Sleep on the Couch – Negotiating with Your Spouse. In her free time, she rows with a team and plays violin in a community orchestra.

Alice lives in Oakland, CA and can be reached at https://shikinanegotiationacademy.com/

In this insightful, heartfelt and light-hearted conversation, Monique Levesque-Pharoah shares how Toastmasters shaped her approach to collaboration—not just as a leadership skill, but as a lifelong mindset. Through her experience serving on many committees including Toastmasters International Disciplinary Committee and charing others, she learned the true value of intentional listening, shared purpose, and inclusion. Her journey also took an unexpected and joyful turn when she found a lifelong collaboration – love, through Toastmasters.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of what real collaboration looks like, how to foster trust in teams, and why authentic relationships are at the heart of impactful leadership. Whether you're leading a club, managing a team, or navigating personal connections, Monique offers practical wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to lead with others, not above them.

Monique is one of the subject matter experts featured in: The Power of Collaboration: Everyone wins when individuals team up and tap into each other’s talents, by Caren S Neile, PhD. in the July 2025 issue of the Toastmaster Magazine.

Monique Levesque-Pharoah is the Director of Development for Peer Connections Manitoba and owner of Unique Communications and Training. A highly experienced presenter and facilitator, she brings training to life with her energetic style and real-life workplace examples. She holds a Certificate in Human Resources Management with honours and is certified in employee development, communication, and leadership. Recently recertified as a conflict mediator through Mediation Services, Monique’s philanthropic efforts include work with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, and Peer Connections Manitoba.

A Toastmaster since 1994, she has served as Past District Governor, Region Advisor, and International Director, and is a member of Winnipeg Chamber Toastmasters and Vital Words.

Monique lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and can be reached at [email protected].

[36:06] Ever wish you could retake that one photo—the one where someone blinked, the lighting was off, or the moment passed before you were ready? In this photo-themed episode, Toastmasters International’s visual media pros Bambi Cash and Blake Carver, the creative forces behind the stunning images and videos that define the organization’s brand share behind-the-scenes insights from global events and offer practical tips to help everyone—from club PR officers to smartphone selfie-takers—capture better, more intentional photos.

Whether you're photographing a keynote speaker, a club meeting, or a group selfie, you’ll come away with helpful dos and don’ts, creative ideas, and a fresh perspective on storytelling through photography.

You’ll get to know Bambi Cash, Toastmasters International’s graphic designer and lead event photographer, and Blake Carver, senior video production specialist and director of the organization’s 100th-anniversary documentary. Together, they bring decades of experience to the conversation and a shared passion for storytelling through visual media.

They explain why taking a good photo isn’t just about expensive equipment—it’s about being intentional. You'll also learn key concepts help avoid backlighting disasters, and how to use everyday items (even hands!) to frame your shot creatively.

You'll get expert advice on:

• 
  

  Capturing movement in still images without cultural missteps

  
  


• 
  

  Staging great award shots without blocking the view

  
  


• 
  

  Mastering group selfies using the “outside arm” trick

  
  


• 
  

  Avoiding closed eyes with their surprising but genius “eyes shut, then open” method

  
  


• 
  

  Using focus and exposure lock on smartphones for better lighting control

  
  


• 
  

  Creating impactful, emotion-filled photos that draw people in

  
  

Bambi and Blake also discuss the planning process behind convention photography, including how they craft a shot list in advance and always aim to shoot from the member’s perspective.

Some of our discussion and more can be found in their article, How to Take Great Photos: The Do’s and Don’ts for Making Your Pictures the Best They Can Be, featured in the June 2025 issue of Toastmaster magazine. The article includes visual examples and real-world tips for Toastmasters looking to boost their club’s public image.

Bambi Cash is the graphic designer and lead photographer at Toastmasters International. She’s the creative mind behind many of the visual elements seen in Toastmaster magazine and at the International Convention. Bambi holds a degree from the University of Northern Colorado and has a background in wedding and portrait photography.

Blake Carver is the senior video production specialist at Toastmasters International, responsible for directing, filming, and editing all of the organization’s video content. With a background in audio engineering and nearly two decades of experience, Blake recently produced and narrated Toastmasters’ official 100-year anniversary documentary.

Together, they are a dynamic duo who collaborate on everything from presidential portraits to multimedia campaigns—and they’re passionate about helping you take better photos.

Coming Soon: Bonus Material

Coming soon you'll be able to hear host Greg Gazin on the hot seat where Bambi and Blake give Greg feedback on a series of pictures Greg took just the previous day in Drumheller, Alberta Canada, a unique town situated in the heart of the Canadian Badlands and dinosaur capital of the world.

[33:30] Hosting a Toastmasters International Convention is no small feat—but when it’s the first convention of the organization’s second century and held in historic Philadelphia, the energy and symbolism are unmatched. In this episode, we chat with Dilip Abayasekara, DTM, AS, Past International President, and the 2025 Host District Chair, all about it and what makes this year’s event extra special.

You’ll hear how a personal invitation from Toastmasters CEO Dan Rex led Dilip to step into the role of host district chair. From rallying 160 volunteers to coordinating a global event, Dilip shares the behind-the-scenes journey. He also discusses the deep significance of Philadelphia as a launchpad for Toastmasters’ next 100 years and unveils the 2025 theme: “Envision Y(our) Next Move.”

Listeners will get a sneak peek at the interactive “Future Boards,” expanded education tracks, and engaging "Journey Workshops" designed to connect learning with life application. We also highlight keynote speaker Anne Bonney, Golden Gavel recipient Matt Abrahams, and a range of fun and cultural activities—from sing-alongs to the Smedley Fund “History on Wheels” tour.

Whether you're attending in person or virtually, this episode gives you all the reasons to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime event.

• 🗓 Convention Dates: August 20–23, 2025
  
  


• 📍 Location: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown & Pennsylvania Convention Center & Online
  
  

• Other Cultural and networking highlights:
  
  




• Parade of Flags
  
  


• Global Celebration Reception
  
  


• First-timers Gathering
  
  


• Accredited Speaker Program
  
  


• Semi-finals & World Championship of Public Speaking
  
  


• Ted Corcoran's legendary sing-along
  
  


• Hall of Fame recognition
  
  

• Article: Envision Yourself: 2025 International Convention — Toastmaster Magazine (June 2025)
  
  


• Article:  Philadelphia Faves by 2019 World Champion Aaron Beverly
  
  


• 🎙#273: Dance Into the Future: 2025 Int'l Convention Keynote Speaker – Anne Bonney
  
  


• 🎙#274: Think Fast, Talk Smart: Meet the 2025 Golden Gavel Recipient – Matt Abrahams

• 🔗 Register for the 2025 Convention
  
  


• 🔗 Register for the 2025 Convention - Virtual.


•  


• 🔗 Helping Hand/Volunteer Interest Form or  email: [email protected]
  
  


• 🔗 Letter of Invitation Request Form (for visa purposes)
  
  


• 🔗 Letter to Convince Your Boss (download)

use: #Toastmasters2025 & #TalkingToastmasters

[19:50] This episode is Part 2 of our conversation on The Toastmasters Podcast, in which host Greg Gazin continues his discussion with Harvard Business School professor and behavioral scientist Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, author of TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. Together, they take a deeper dive into the underrated power of asking good questions, exploring the art and science of conversation through the lens of inquiry—revealing that it’s not just about what you ask, but how, when, and why you ask it. If you haven’t already done so, you might want to listen to Part 1, Episode #275 first.

The discussion continues to draw from the chapter titled “A is for Asking” in Alison’s new book, along with her article, “Asking More and Better Questions,” which will appear in an upcoming issue of Toastmaster magazine.

If you enjoyed Part 1, you’ll love Part 2. In this episode, Alison returns to expand on the power of better questions, beginning with the story that opens the “Asking” chapter of her book. We explore how NPR’s Terry Gross and the late Carrie Fisher—best known as Star Wars’ Princess Leia—built a relationship over three decades of interviews, with questions that evolved alongside their connection. Alison also shares tips on reframing sensitive topics, using AI for preparation, and creating more emotionally engaging conversations—whether for podcasts, Table Topics, everyday interactions, and more.

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the O’Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School. She is a behavioral scientist and one of the world’s leading experts on the science of conversation. Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and cited in major media outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR. Her work was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED Talks of all time and even depicted in Pixar’s Inside Out 2. In 2021, she was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants.

🔗 You can reach out to Alison at: AlisonWoodBrooks.com where you can also get a free copy of The TALK Workbook, by joining the TALK community. 

Link to the article will be posted here when available..

You can listen to Part 1 here: 

[32:16] In this enlightening episode (Part 1 of 2) of The Toastmasters Podcast, host Greg Gazin sits down with Harvard Business School professor and behavioral scientist Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, author of TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. Together, they dive deep into the underrated power of asking good questions—revealing that it’s not just about what you ask, but how, when, and why you ask it. Whether you're a speaker, a leader, or simply someone looking to have more meaningful interactions, this episode is packed with research-backed tips, memorable stories, and plenty of conversational “golden nuggets.”

In this lighthearted yet informative conversation, we explore the art and science of conversation through the lens of questioning. The discussion draws from one chapter of Alison’s new book and her article, “Asking More and Better Questions,” featured in a forthcoming issue of Toastmaster magazine.

Dr. Brooks walks us through The Four Key Types of Questions—Introductory, Mirror, Topic-Switching, and Follow-Up—and explains how each serves a distinct role in making conversations more meaningful and effective. She debunks the myth that changing topics is rude, revealing that most people actually stay too long on a single subject, and that skillful topic switching can reinvigorate a conversation.

We also unpack why follow-up questions are the superheroes of dialogue—boosting connection, increasing engagement, and making us more likable. But not all questions land well. Dr. Brooks introduces the concept of “boomerasking”—a conversational misstep where someone asks a question but quickly pivots the conversation back to themselves, missing the opportunity to truly listen and engage.

The episode also explores the delicate balance between preparing thoughtful questions and staying flexible in the moment—much like a jazz musician who rehearses but improvises once on stage. When it comes to asking the “wrong” question, Dr. Brooks reminds us that context matters most: There’s no such thing as a sensitive question—only sensitive contexts.

On a more personal note, Alison shares how growing up with an identical twin provided her with a “real-life mirror,” giving her rare, real-time feedback on her conversational strengths and weaknesses and shaping her awareness of interpersonal dynamics.

Whether you're a public speaker, leader, or simply looking to elevate your everyday conversations, this episode offers practical, research-based insights on how to become a better conversationalist—one question at a time.

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the O’Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School. She is a behavioral scientist and one of the world’s leading experts on the science of conversation. Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and cited in major media outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR. Her work was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED Talks of all time and even depicted in Pixar’s Inside Out 2. In 2021, she was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants.

🔗 You can reach out to Alison at: AlisonWoodBrooks.com where you can also get a free copy of The TALK Workbook, by joining the TALK community. 

Watch for Part 2 of this episode, coming June 1, 2025.

[31:15] The Toastmasters International Golden Gavel is the prestigious annual award bestowed upon an individual distinguished in the fields of leadership and communication. In this lively and insightful episode, Greg Gazin and guest co-host Ryan Levesque reconnect with Matt Abrahams, celebrated Stanford lecturer, podcast host of Think Fast, Talk Smart, and the 2025 Golden Gavel Award Honoree. Matt shares personal stories, practical communication strategies, and his excitement for his upcoming keynote, From Silence to Brilliance: How to Craft Compelling, Clear Communication. The episode blends humor, warmth, and wisdom as the trio explores communication in modern contexts, executive presence, and the evolving landscape of public speaking.

Matt, a longtime Toastmasters supporter, shares how a ripped-pants karate kick during a high school speech sparked his passion for communication and managing anxiety.

You’ll also learn practical takeaways for staying present—like using deep breaths, affirmations such as “I have value to bring,” and tongue twisters to sharpen focus. Matt explains that effective communication is about high-fidelity message transfer rooted in authentic connection. He discusses how today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world requires adaptability, and how Toastmasters helped shape his skills through repetition, reflection, and feedback.

You’ll also hear about his award-winning podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart, and his approach to executive presence as a balance of authenticity, confidence, warmth, and competence. Finally, he previews his upcoming keynote, From Silence to Brilliance: How to Craft Compelling, Clear Communication, centered on the “F-word” of communication—Focus—through being concise, relevant, accessible, and precise.

Matt will be presented with his Golden Gavel award during the upcoming Toastmasters International's Convention being held in Philadelphia, PA, August 20–23, 2025. The award ceremony and presentation can be seen live and livestreamed: Friday, August 22, 8 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)/Universal Time (UTC) -4. For those who are there in Philadelphia, you can meet Matt Abrahams in person: Friday, August 22, 9 a.m.

Matt is also featured in the May 2025 issue of the Toastmaster magazine, in Paul Sterman’s article called Tearing It Up: 2025 Golden Gavel recipient scores successes onstage, online, and in the classroom.

Matt Abrahams is a lecturer in organizational behavior at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business, the author of two books on public speaking and communication, and the host of an internationally popular podcast, Think Fast, Talk Smart.

Matt is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker and communications consultant and coach. He has helped numerous presenters prepare for high-stakes talks, including IPO road shows, Nobel Prize award presentations, and appearances at TED and the World Economic Forum.

Matt Abrahams is from the San Francisco Bay Area and can be reached at: FasterSmarter.io as well as on LinkedIn.

Podcast Links:
Matt has appeared on the Toastmasters Podcast six times and on ToastCaster: Communication, Leadership & Learning Lab three times, and you can find these episodes here.

toastmasterspodcast.com

1. Episode #235: Think Faster, Talk Smarter in the Moment – Matt Abrahams


2. Episode #111: Be Confident When Caught Off Guard – Matt Abrahams


3. Episode #067: Matt Abrahams Offers Tips on Taming Your Stage Fright


4. Episode #057: 2012 International Convention Special Sneak Preview! (Part 1)


5. Episode #043: Matt Abrahams – Know Thy Fear

1. 
   

   TC176: Think Faster, Talk Smarter—A Deeper Dive – Matt Abrahams

   
   


2. 
   

   Toastcaster 153: Making Freaking Meetings Fun & Productive – Matt Abrahams

   
   


3. 
   

   Toastcaster 93: Speaking Up Without Freaking Out – Matt Abrahams

   
   

You can register for the conference here: REGISTER NOW.
https://www.toastmasters.org/events/2025-international-convention

[33:14] In this episode, we speak with the dynamic and energizing Anne Bonney, who will light up the stage with her opening keynote, Ignite Your Next Move: Courageously Dancing into the Future, at the upcoming Toastmasters International Convention, to be held in the "City of Brotherly Love" — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, August 20–23, 2025.

Our Interview

In our lighthearted yet informative conversation, Anne shares why—even though it’s part of everyday life—change still feels uncomfortable for so many. From recognizing the discomfort of change at just 8 years old to navigating a career spanning corporate marketing and animal training, Anne shows us how she’s learned to Dance with Discomfort—and how we can too.
She introduces her signature concept of “Sassy Backtalk” to build mental toughness, offers a peek behind the curtain at what still scares her, and reflects on her Toastmasters journey. With bold, sassy advice and a high-energy style, Anne inspires us to embrace change with confidence and resilience.

You can read Anne’s profile, Dance Into the Future With Anne Bonney: Keynote Speaker for the 2025 International Convention Encourages Embracing Change, by Stephanie Darling, featured in the April 2025 issue of Toastmaster Magazine.

About Anne

Anne Bonney is a high-energy keynote speaker, dynamic storyteller, author, and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) with over 20 years of leadership experience in the corporate and nonprofit worlds.
A former Toastmaster and host of the hit podcast Dancing in the Discomfort Zone, Anne helps overwhelmed professionals embrace change with confidence, build resilience, and lead with emotional intelligence. With her relatable style and infectious energy, she empowers audiences to navigate tough conversations and thrive through constant change.

Anne lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, and can be reached at yourchangespeaker.com.

Anne will be delivering her keynote live and via livestream on Wednesday, August 20, at 9 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) / Coordinated Universal Time (UTC -4), following the Parade of Flags.