Episodes

Monday Jul 05, 2021
Toastcaster 150: Hardest Speech You‘ll Ever Have to Give - Greg Gazin
Monday Jul 05, 2021
Monday Jul 05, 2021
[32:53] Imagine the hardest speech you'll ever have to give.
In this episode you'll hear about that speech, the process that went into creating it and the speech itself and how on that day, I felt a rollercoaster of emotions the likes of which I’d never experienced in my life.
That day I was surrounded by loving friends and family as I said a final farewell to Elaine Baram, my best friend, my love, my wife, the sunshine of my life who I will miss forever . It will also explain why there were no episodes over the past months.

Saturday May 15, 2021
Toastcaster 149: How to Host a Live or Virtual TEDx Event Part 2 – Noel Bentley
Saturday May 15, 2021
Saturday May 15, 2021
[27:39] This episode, Part 2 is the final part of our conversation with Noel Bentley on how to host a TEDx event where he continues to share his expertise on being the best host you can be.
Noel also talks about getting help by borrowing - not copying but rather be inspired by others and other TED or TEDx events but at the same time being you own person and letting your own personality shine through.
Noel also shares additional best practices along with a few do’s and don’ts and how you can prepare yourself even for impromptu situations and the unexpected.
You’ll also learn about some of the differences between live and virtual presentations and what you can do to make the latter seem more natural. He also shares some of the special considerations they had to make given the current global climate and environment which they knew could change without notice. He used real examples from TEDx BearCreekPark 2021 that took place just one month ago.
Noel Bentley is a speaker, humorist, storytelling coach, emcee and Toastmaster. He started project called Power of 3 Speaking, a new way of doing keynote speaking. He can be reached at https://powerof3speaking.com or coming soon at NoelBentley.ca
You can also watch the latest TEDx BearCreekPark 2021 at https://tedxbearcreekpark.ca
If you missed part 1, you can find it (Toastcaster 148) at: http://bit.ly/toastcaster148

Saturday May 01, 2021
Toastcaster 148: How to Host a Live or Virtual TEDx Event Part I – Noel Bentley
Saturday May 01, 2021
Saturday May 01, 2021
[27:28] There’s a plethora of resources spotlighting do a TED Talk or speaking on the TEDx stage, but few realize that a great host or emcee can make or break that event. In this episode Greg speaks with Noel Bentley, a three-time TEDx host who’s hosted both live and virtual events at TEDx Bear Creek Park in Surrey BC, Canada.
In Part 1 of this 2 part series, Noel inspires us with his own story, what it means to be a TEDx host, what the role entails and the excitement and opportunities it presents for speakers and individuals. You’ll as be introduced to TEDx BearCreekPark and a glimpse as to what goes on behind the scenes of a TEDx.
Noel enlightens us with his experience in his role as a TEDx host - how he got there, what he learned, how he (over) prepares mentally and physically and about the help he got along the way. You’ll also learn about other key players like the curator, speaker coach, program coordinator and of course the speakers and how the host interacts with them. You’ll also find out what speakers have to go through to be on that stage.
Noel will also share some of his best practices and things to avoid, touching on the topics of introduction, bridging between speakers, scripting and humour.
Noel Bentley is a speaker, humorist, storytelling coach, emcee and Toastmaster. He started project called Power of 3 Speaking, a new way of doing keynote speaking. He lives in Surrey, BC, Canada and can be reached at https://powerof3speaking.com or coming soon at NoelBentley.ca.
You can also watch the latest TEDx BearCreekPark 2021 at https://tedxbearcreekpark.ca
Watch for Part 2 (Toastcaster 149) coming up.

Friday Jan 01, 2021
Toastcaster 147: Nurturing Young Minds Through Podcasting – Kevin Achtzener
Friday Jan 01, 2021
Friday Jan 01, 2021
[22:13] Kevin Achtzener, DTM is in the process of doing his practicum at a Spanish bilingual school to earn an after degree in Education. He had the idea to teach his students new material as part of a Spanish Language Arts curriculum by getting them to create their own podcasts.
In this episode, Kevin, a regular on ToastCaster, shared his experience as to why he chose podcasting as a teaching medium, what he was trying to accomplish, how the class took to it and how the podcasts turned out. He talks a little about the methods he used, the subjects he selected as well as what both he and his students learned from the process.
He also tells how he got our Podcast Host Greg Gazin involved by interviewing him as both a sample podcast and as a way to share his knowledge with the students through a podcast which was to be played in the classroom.
Kevin Achtzener is from Edmonton, Canada and can be reached at VisualProductivity.net.

Saturday Dec 19, 2020
Saturday Dec 19, 2020
[29:38] Everyone is trying to be better informed and protect themselves and others and reduce exposure to the Covid-19 virus. They’re social distancing, wearing masks and washing their hands, but how many of us think about our smartphone as a major source of a threat to our health? Or how many of us are missing key pieces of information that can help us and our loved ones stay safe?
In this episode Greg speaks with June Lai, founder and CEO of Catalyst, a high tech accessories maker but first and foremost a scientist. June offers an authoritative insight on PPE and on helping us all stay safe.
By the end of this podcast, you’ll better understand the difference between bacteria and a virus, what terms like anti-microbial really means. You’ll also learn how to properly disinfect your phone, what to use, what not to use and what to watch out for and suggestions on proper Covid phone safety etiquette.
You’ll also discover how waterproof cases, like those from Catalyst can not only protect your valuable smartphone investment, but one that is also washable can effectively reduce the risk of infection when properly implemented into your daily protection routine.
The techies will also love to hear what makes for a great waterproof case, and methods and technology Catalyst used in perfecting their patented waterproof seal.
You’ll also learn a little more about June, a glimpse into her journey, how the company came to be and how its skillset and innovation has now lead them to develop much needed quality PPE including novel items like a mask wallet.
June Lai, originally from Vancouver, Canada, now based in Hong Kong is the founder and CEO of Catalyst - a global consumer high tech high performance electronics accessories brand. She’s also a scientist who oversees R&D at the company who is in the business of inventing unique patented products that combine world-class design with performance. You can find out more about about Catalyst at CatalystCase.com.
If you’re interested in learning more about viruses, June suggests checking out TWiV - This Week in Virology - a podcast about viruses.
![Toastcaster 145: Podcasting 101: Hosting & Interview Techniques - 2018 Live Educational [Toastmasters ]](https://deow9bq0xqvbj.cloudfront.net/image-logo/2613/NewGregPodcastPic3000_500K_300x300.jpg)
Monday Nov 30, 2020
Monday Nov 30, 2020
[43:52] When I first started podcasting 15 years ago, the most frequently asked question was, ‘What’s a Podcast?” Five years ago, It was, “Why are you doing podcasts? It’s going the way of the radio, video is where it’s at. Today I’m often asked, “What are the benefits of podcasting?” And “How can I get involved? How do I get started?”
In April 2020 Apple Podcasts had over 1M podcast and over 35 million episodes. With the lockdown I’ve heard estimates ion 1.5 million and many many more episode. So Podcasting is not going away any time soon.
People do want to know more. In fact I’m questioned about podcasts and podcasting everyday.
As luck would have it, I recently came across a 2018, recording of a Podcast educational session I delivered - in a last minute request, to a group of Toastmasters which covers many of those questions and more. And while podcasting certainly continues to evolve, the information presented is still relevant today
This episode is not only for Toastmasters but for any communicator or leader who may be curious or interested in this topic.
- We’ll look at what a podcast is, what it can do for you; the benefits of podcasts from a listeners, guests and a creator’s perspective.
- You’ll hear stories along with tips and tricks in preparing, creating, hosting and moderating a podcast.
- You’ll discover how to preparing effective questions and interviewing Techniques.
- We’ll also make reference to a number of resources, other podcasts,
- and more.
You can also download a PDF of the slides used in the presentation. http://bit.ly/gregtli2018
You may also want to check out The Toastmasters Podcast: Creating Interesting Podcast Content (Part 1) episode #157 and (Part 2) episode #158, featuring yours truly and co-host Ryan Levesque.
I also encourage you to read, "Is there a Podcast in Your Future," feature cover story in the Jan 2021 issue of Toastmaster Magazine.
Look for other upcoming podcast themed episodes here at ToastCaster and the Toastmasters Podcast.

Tuesday Nov 17, 2020
Tuesday Nov 17, 2020


Sunday Oct 25, 2020
Sunday Oct 25, 2020

Wednesday Sep 30, 2020
Wednesday Sep 30, 2020

Wednesday Sep 16, 2020
Toastcaster 141: How to Use Subtle Words that Sell - Paul Ross
Wednesday Sep 16, 2020
Wednesday Sep 16, 2020

Monday Aug 31, 2020
Monday Aug 31, 2020
[29:21] Just when we thought the world had enough jargon, acronyms and other confusing verbiage, Grant Crowell, a self-professed social wordsmith comes along and creates his own words or “Grantasms.” His motives are sincere – his intention, to make communication fun again while helping people build confidence, better relationships and increase their productivity.
In this light hearted yet informative episode you’ll learn why he wrote this book, what you can take away from it and how he himself uses his own Grantasms for laughs, socio-emotional wellness, and his own ADHD management. Listen for new terms like spousish, GERK, fillerflabber, messy-tasking, acronumb, playful mindfulness and more.
Grant Crowell is a learning facilitator for Dell Technologies Digital Events team and is the author of GRANTASMS: Twisted Creative words for cool people! He lives in Durham, North Carolina USA. Grant and can be found on LinkedIn and get his book on Amazon.

Saturday Aug 22, 2020
Toastcaster 139: Finding Your New Learning Curve - Bob Hooey
Saturday Aug 22, 2020
Saturday Aug 22, 2020
[28:50] When the current pandemic became a global reality, suddenly Bob Hooey found his speaking business more or less obliterated.
In this episode, Bob expresses to Greg how he felt and how he dealt with the situation while perhaps realizing his and and maybe our biggest fears.
After overcoming the initial shock, Bob realised, "I can't travel, but my message can." Pulling from years of experience, he decided instead of spiralling downward, he could pivot. So even at age 71, he found his new learning curve and embraced his new playing field. "I'm still learning," he says.
What Bob did, many of us can do too as he discovered new technologies and used the power of partnering, creativity and the often forgotten value of simply asking for help to move forward. Additionally Bob also shares the wisdom of some of his past experiences, much of which can apply to all of us and our businesses today in his own entertaining way.
FREE BOOK
As a gift to our listeners, Bob is offering, free to all readers a copy of his latest book,
Succeed! Idea-rich strategies to succeed in business despite global disruptions.
Bob Hooey is the Canadian "Ideaman." He's an accomplished speaker, prolific author of over 30 books on leadership and career success and travels the world (when its open) sharing his innovative Ideas At Work. He's also a long-time Distinguished Toastmaster, Past District Governor and Accredited Speaker.
Bob lives in Egremont Alberta Canada and can be reached at Ideaman.net or SuccessPublications.ca.

Friday Jul 31, 2020
Friday Jul 31, 2020
[27:41] Looking at how a pandemic has changed the way we dine and how restaurants operate and literally ravaged the industry. As some cities begin to re-open, you can’t help but wonder what the new normal is or might be or what future looks like moving forward.
In this episode, our guest Brittain Brown offers us a little insight into that arena. From his experience, he’ll share some of his observations what’s going on in the minds of restaurant owners and operators, staff and patrons. You’ll hear about some of the changes in store beyond merely servers in face masks, constant cleaning and reassuring customers as factors whether restaurants can successfully reopen and stay in business.
He addresses some of the challenges today’s leaders are facing, but also some of the opportunities that this represents including some food for thought on how leaders need to rethink and evolve their business models and adopt new technologies which are already driving the new normal and what might happen if they don’t.
What you’ll hear will be of interest and value to you regardless as to whether you’re a restauranteur, a patron or a leader in any other industry. Brown’s insights can apply to anyone.
Brittain Brown, B.A. is from Toronto, Canada. He’s the President of Givex, a global company that provides the restaurant, retail, and other industries with the latest tech solutions and analytics that help clients drive sales and make better business decisions. He can be reached at Givex.com.

Wednesday Jul 08, 2020
Toastcaster 137: Discover the Future of the Future AGAIN! (FREE Summit) – Angelo Tirhas
Wednesday Jul 08, 2020
Wednesday Jul 08, 2020
[30:30] For Angelo Tirhas, like many around the world, everything more or less came to a dead halt when the current global crisis hit, leaving him stuck with literally nothing to do.
Instead of wallowing in defeat asking the same questions on everyone’s mind, his professional mind kicked in realizing that he had to define the problem and find solutions. He asked himself: “What’s the biggest problem in the world today, what are people what most scared of and can we help them?”
Of course he realized people were already overloaded with data they couldn’t make sense of and he himself didn’t have all the answers. He had an epiphany. “Let’s get all these people into one place and share what the future possibilities are and figure out what to do to survive the future. Get people asking questions in touch with those who have answers and let them have a chat with each other.
And thus Future Summits Online series was born.
In this entertaining and informative episode we learn more about Angelo’s journey, what he saw, what he heard, stories and insights and why he vetted and handpicked from over 150 speakers. You’ll also learn about his F.A.I.T.H framework (Fundamentals Awareness Implementation, Transformation and Humanity) and how it’s being incorporated into the summit – and more.
Angelo Tirhas is keynote speaker, corporate trainer and coach specializing in transformation, business and personal development, founder and host of "Future Summits Online”, the first ever Global Future Focused Online Summit Series. Angelo can be reached on LinkedIn or via e-mail.
About the Future of the Future Summit (On-Line)
Date: NEW!!! SEPTEMBER 17-22, 2020.
Cost: FREE. Low cost VIP packages with added benefits also available.
Takeaway: Actionable information, skills, strategies and insights from 25 leading global experts, futurists, innovative thinkers and thought leaders to help you prepare, be future ready and future proof. (4 speakers/ day)
Tickets: Visit now to get more information on the Summit or to get FREE Tickets
This episode: bit.ly/toastcaster137

Wednesday Jul 01, 2020
Wednesday Jul 01, 2020
[29:33] Sometimes the best way to be a better leader and communicator is to learn from others’ stories. In this episode we hear from Paul Finkelstein who created OMGTalk, the small business owners podcast which he publishes on 5 different platforms.
Paul tells us why he created it; how he interviews small business owners and its value to them and other small business owners. Paul also shares his own takeaways and what he has learned from the process.
I invited Paul to Toastcaster because when he asked me to be on his show OMGTalk, the four simple questions he indicated he was going to ask I found quite reflective. It forced me to think back and dig deep - which I found quite inspiring. Please have a listen to to our interview on Paul's show.
Paul Finkelstein is from Delray Beach, Florida, USA. He’s involved in the Medicare insurance industry and loves running and fundraising. He’s a Distinguished Toastmaster and is the producer of the OMGTalk Podcast. Paul can be reached on all the major platforms and at OMGTalk.com.

Sunday May 31, 2020
Sunday May 31, 2020
[26:06] Learning a new language while abroad particularly during these unprecedented times can be a challenge yet rewarding. But our eight-time guest, Kevin Achtzener, who is currently overseas with his family in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was certainly up for the quest.
In this light-hearted episode, Kevin humbly shares how he was first inspired to learn Spanish the traditional way many years ago and some of the things he learned what not to do as he set upon a quest to learn Arabic – a much more challenging task.
Kevin also shares a number of techniques he’s been using like a language exchange as well as some of his valuable resources including: Anki– a Flashcard app, 50Languages– 100 Free Audio lessons; LingQ– which helps you learn a language from content you love and his go to book: Arabic Script Hacking by Judith Meyer, which helped him to learn to read signs.
Editors Note: Once you have a good working knowledge of a language, there are also many bilingual Toastmasters clubs around the world one can also check out.

Tuesday May 19, 2020
Tuesday May 19, 2020
[11:39] For a dedicated athlete or fit individual, walking a minimum of 10k steps a day for almost three years might seem like nothing. For me, a few decades older with ancient injuries walking roughly seven to eight kilometres a day that seems more like a pipe dream.
Amazingly, I did it. I never thought I could. In this episode, I share a little about my journey and how beyond the usual benefits of exercise the experience was transformational; I learned new things - many about myself.
The text version of this podcast is entitled “What I learned from a Journey of over 11 million steps.” There’s also an earlier related article, “One step at a time: a simple solution to a better life.” The companion podcast is Toastcaster Episode: 90.
Articles can be found at Troy Media.com
Note: The photo shows me as I reached the 1000-day milestone. As I recorded this podcast 70 days later I had reached 12.3 million steps. Sadly as I publish this podcast my journey has come to an end as a time slot has come up for my long awaited and overdue hernia operation. But I will start again and learn many new things.

Thursday Apr 30, 2020
Thursday Apr 30, 2020
[22:06] Many businesses are finding themselves in an emergency state and are desperately looking to ensure smooth continuity.
In this episode, Greg speaks with Chandrashekar LSP, Head Evangelist for the Zoho Corporation in Canada.
Chandrashekar shares his observations on this new unprecedented business landscape and gives us an insight on what people and businesses can do and tools they can use to shift from typical office environments to the new reality without recreating the wheel
Working from home for over 15 years, he also offers his personal take on this subject as he currently has three kids under five years of age at home 24/7 and with his teams in India, and clients, partners, analysts and media in North America and around the world.
You’ll hear about Zoho’s Cloud-based business services for all departments in an organization including their new Remotely bundle consisting of 11 of their 45 applications in four categories, including: Internal/External Communications, Project Management, Remote Assistance and a collaborative Office Suite, which Zoho is offering at no charge for a limited time through their Small Business Emergency Assistance Subscription Program to help businesses get through the pandemic. (zoho.com/remotely)
Chandrashekar LSP is based in Montreal and has been with Zoho Corporation, a 24-year old privately held company for almost two decades. He can be reached at: lsp@zohocorp.com

Saturday Apr 18, 2020
Saturday Apr 18, 2020
[22:28] In this episode, Greg speaks with Dr. Shawna Pandya whose three page bio and credentials list includes: physician, scientist-astronaut candidate, teacher and martial artist with degrees in medicine, neuroscience, space studies and more.
Dr. Pandya shares with us a little about her journey and about her self-proclaimed Batman/ Bruce Wayne persona while opening up on how she’s been able to live out her childhood dreams.
She also shares about how her training prep for space travel has helped her prepare not only to deal with life in a COVID-19 world but also gives us lessons in leadership, communication, teamwork and critical decision-making in a high-risk, high-reward situation that can be applied to anyone, anywhere in our world.
This includes her very timely insight on how isolation in space can help us better learn about isolation we’re currently experiencing on Earth.
Dr. Shawna Pandya lives in Edmonton, Canada and can be reached at ShawnaPandya.com, or on Twitter & Instagram @ShawnaPandya – when she’s not training in zero-gravity.

Saturday Mar 28, 2020
Saturday Mar 28, 2020
[29:31] Keeping the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading has just about put the entire planet into lockdown mode. In this episode, Greg speaks with Lisa Wentz about her short article on LinkedIn about keeping mentally and physically stimulated and engaged and not feeling frozen during this unprecedented quarantine.
Lisa shares with us her recent journey of self-isolation. She explains how news overload and too much of the wrong kind of mental stimulation can affect people physically and how we can combat that and ensure we continue to pursue things that are relevant and important to us. Wentz explains how mental stimulation means different things to different people and how we need to find the time to reach out to others, not just those we know. You’ll also discover why getting through these times is not just about balance but about choices we make. You’ll even hear her interesting observations about changes in people like celebrity Stephen Colbert, who was forced to self-isolate, and more.
Lisa Wentz is from San Francisco, California and has an extensive background in psychology, professional acting training and live performance. Wentz is also featured in Episode 118 - Grace Under Pressure - A Masterclass in Public Speaking.
She can be reached at LisaWentz.com.