Snapshots of Growth: Why Toastmasters Still Matters

Have you ever wished you felt more confident speaking in front of others? You’re not alone. Nearly 1 in 4 people experience glossophobia—fear of public speaking. Fortunately, it’s a skill that can be learned, practiced, and even enjoyed.

I’ve always been comfortable on stage. As a kid, I wanted to be the teacher when we played school (surprise, surprise), and I became a trainer at 14 when the American Red Cross trusted me to teach first aid to 3rd and 4th graders. Later in my career, I trained insurance agents to understand our products and sell with confidence, and today I offer a variety of workshops and keynotes on leadership, communication, business planning, and much more.

When someone first invited me to Toastmasters, I thought, “I don’t need that. I already know how to speak.” It wasn’t until I moved to Nashville that I gave it a shot—joining a new club in Franklin and serving as secretary. That decision helped me grow exponentially, not just as a speaker, but as a leader.

Last weekend, I attended my first Toastmasters District Conference in about ten years. I competed in the Evaluation Contest (placed third!) but more importantly, I walked away inspired. The energy, the workshops on finding your why, personal branding, and creativity—and the four speech contests, including the International Speech Contest—reminded me of the power of this community. It’s not just about winning trophies. It’s about showing up, growing, and supporting each other.

Toastmasters has helped nearly 8 million people become better communicators and leaders over the last 100 years. And yes, fun fact: it took nearly 50 of those years before women were allowed to join.

I rejoined my original Franklin Toastmasters Club in 2023, shortly after launching my coaching business. I love seeing guests walk in nervously and leave with pride after speaking in front of a group—maybe for the first time ever. I also enjoy watching members grow in their ability to speak and lead. We have members who have retired from corporate life and continue to attend to keep their skills elevated and to mentor younger members.

If you’re even a little bit curious about what Toastmasters could do for you, I encourage you to find a club and visit. Go to Toastmasters International and click “Find a Club.” Ours meets on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month at 7:30 am in Franklin, TN. (Yes, that’s early—but it’s always worth it.) And if Franklin isn’t convenient, you’ve got 16,000 other clubs to choose from around the world.

Visit a club. Say a few words. And see what you learn about yourself in the process.