I’ve learned three things since joining Toastmasters. First, everyone has a story to tell, I do mean everyone. When I listen carefully, I learn things that change my life, my point of view, or tickle my fancy. The second is the Toastmasters program works. It helps a speaker organize their thoughts Read more...

In July, Metropolitan Toastmasters members elected a new exectitive committee. Our new president, James Child, shares his road to the role.I became a Toastmaster in the fall of 2006, desiring to overcome my fear of public speaking. By July 2007 I wanted to be more involved in the club. I wanted to see Read more...

In a world where the majority don't speak your language, it's hard to be a conversation-starter, let alone-- to even utter a single word. When we are among those who can relate and communicate our native tongue, that makes the difference between trying and never trying again.Our Club celebrated hispanic Read more...

I admit I was a little star-struck when I met her. Walking down the street, I’m pretty sure not too many people would have known who she was, but talking to her I was as weak-kneed as that time Prince walked by me at Paisley Park, so close that I could smell his cologne. She is professor of Management Read more...

Imagine you are a young person in your early 20’s and you visit a Toastmasters club for the very first time only to find that the youngest member of the club is 57 years old. Or, imagine being a woman and walking into a club where there are all men. How would you feel? Would you feel that you could Read more...

Do you ever wonder if a Toastmaster has time for anything besides Toastmastering? I’ve been so busy skiing this winter; I was inspired to choose a theme that reflects my passion: “Winter is Great”.I just completed my third ski marathon this season, the “American Birkebeiner.” I finished up Read more...

Each Toastmaster brings his or her unique personality, and gifts and abilities, to the club. Though we are giving talks and performing in leadership roles, we are doing it with the aim of communicating with and serving one another. We learn to see the good in others and appreciate each member’s contributions.Good Read more...

If you're interested in our convening at the executive meeting this past week, here are the minutes (not recorded) from our discussion: All club officers spoke of the club's growth rate. As of beginning January, the Metropolitan has been growing by leaps and bounds. On average, almost 3 people join Metropolitan Read more...

Two clubs collide... or do they harmoniously enmesh? Joint meetings can be fun when members have the right attitude.Speakers and audience can benefit by having fresh perspectives on evaluations from experienced members of the visiting club. It's also fun to hear different speakers and their styles--an Read more...

From the desk of the Vice President of Education, Angela Schnaubelt:Every meeting is a showcase meeting at our club. We never know when we will have guests. We never know when there will be last minute cancellations. We never know who will be prepared when they do attend. Life is about being flexible, Read more...