In this inspiring episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn interviews Dean, a relatively new Toastmaster from Quakers Hill Toastmasters Club, who has been a member for just eight months. Despite his short time in the organization, Dean has already made a strong impression, winning first place in Table Topics and second place in Evaluation at the Western Division competition.

Dean shares a deeply personal story about his long struggle with anxiety and fear of speaking. While working in the federal government, he experienced intense panic in meetings and began relying on propranolol, a beta blocker, to manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. For years, he used it as a crutch for speeches, presentations, and even his wedding vows. Eventually, the shame of feeling dependent on medication became a turning point, leading him to seek a more lasting solution through Toastmasters.

His first Icebreaker speech, delivered without propranolol, was a vulnerable retelling of that journey. The response he received, including a rare standing ovation, helped him realize that authenticity and vulnerability create the strongest connection with an audience. Throughout the conversation, Dean reflects on the power of telling personal stories, the importance of embracing discomfort, and the idea that confidence is built through repeated exposure rather than perfect conditions.

Dean also offers practical tips for speech evaluation, including focusing on the speaker’s message, identifying strengths, and giving constructive recommendations. He speaks thoughtfully about modern communication, the disconnection caused by technology, and why vulnerability in speaking matters more than ever. Now completing a Master’s in Counselling, Dean hopes to help others overcome public speaking anxiety through his emerging venture, Asymmetry Coaching.

The episode is a heartfelt reminder that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to move forward despite it.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-ebejer-6a7442379/

Connect with Dean Ebejer and Assemetry Coaching on LinkedIn

In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn is joined by Charmaine Tully from Blue Mountains Toastmasters to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked yet vital role of the Sergeant at Arms. Drawing on their shared experience as Toastmasters and celebrants, they explore how thoughtful room setup can dramatically influence the energy, flow, and success of a meeting or event.

Charmaine shares that stepping into the Sergeant at Arms role as a new member gave her a sense of contribution and ownership. What initially seemed like a simple role quickly revealed itself to be one of great responsibility and impact. She emphasises that while members may not consciously notice the setup, they certainly feel it. From table arrangements and aligned chairs to clear sightlines and well-placed lecterns, every detail contributes to creating a space where speakers can perform at their best.

The conversation dives into practical tips, including removing excess chairs to avoid clutter, ensuring name tags and agendas are neatly presented, and positioning equipment like the lectern, timer, and audiovisual tools for seamless transitions. Charmaine highlights the importance of eliminating distractions—such as stacked chairs or visible clutter—and preparing technology in advance to avoid awkward pauses during meetings.

They also explore how these principles apply across different venues, including those requiring full setup and pack-down. Charmaine suggests using diagrams, delegating setup tasks, and even bringing simple tools like wipes or tablecloths to elevate the environment. Small touches—like mints, pens, or gentle background music—can enhance the overall experience.

Importantly, the discussion extends to Toastmasters competitions, where setup becomes even more critical. A calm, organised environment helps reduce anxiety for speakers and creates a professional atmosphere. Charmaine introduces the idea that our experience of a room is shaped first visually, then auditorily, and finally by how it makes us feel—often within seconds.

Ultimately, this episode reminds us that excellence in Toastmasters goes beyond speaking. By mastering the unseen details, the Sergeant at Arms plays a crucial role in creating an environment where confidence, connection, and communication can truly flourish.

In this episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn speaks with Allan Rees-Bevan, a long-time Toastmaster whose story is both inspiring and deeply practical. Alan shares that he has been involved in Toastmasters for 35 years, joining at the age of 19 after being strongly encouraged by his grandfather. At the time, he was lacking confidence, struggling at university, and terrified of public speaking. What began as something he resisted became one of the most transformative influences in his life.

A major theme of the conversation is that Toastmasters is not just about becoming a better speaker within the club — it is about becoming better at life. Alan explains that the communication, presentation, evaluation, and leadership skills he developed through Toastmasters have shaped every stage of his professional journey. He credits these skills with helping him earn promotions, step into management roles, and build confidence in the workplace.

Alan discusses two passion projects: Speakeasy, a community speaking event that blends in-person and international speakers around monthly themes, and Chatter Camp, a children’s public speaking camp that helps young people build confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Both projects reflect Alan’s desire to create spaces where people can grow, connect, and find their voice.

The episode closes with Alan’s strong belief that communication skills are more important than ever in today’s world — especially in an age of AI. While technology may replace many tasks, he believes human skills such as speaking, empathy, leadership, and connection will remain invaluable. His advice is simple and powerful: visit a club, find one you love, join, and stay.

Contact Details

Allan Rees-Bevan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/reesbevan/

SpeakEasySpeakingEvents@gmail.com

SpeakEasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakeasy.events/

Chattercamp: https://chattercamp.info