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In this follow-up episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn welcomes back longtime Toastmaster Allan Rees-Bevan to discover how his community speaking venture, SpeakEasy, has grown since his first appearance on the podcast.

Launched in February, SpeakEasy is a monthly not-for-profit hybrid speaking event, bringing together speakers and audiences both in person in Sydney and online from around the world. Inspired by a similar speaking community Allan experienced in London 25 years ago, SpeakEasy gives people the freedom to share stories, experiences and ideas without the usual structure or criteria of a Toastmasters speech.

Allan reflects on the remarkable growth of the event, with attendance climbing from around 30–40 people to an impressive 118 at a recent gathering. He discusses some of the challenges behind the scenes, from finding affordable venues and managing technology to creating the right balance between online and in-person speakers.

The conversation also explores SpeakEasy’s thought-provoking monthly themes, including Celebrating Failure, Fear and Courage and Small Moments, as well as Allan’s commitment to mentoring speakers and creating opportunities for them to stretch beyond their comfort zones.

With speakers already booked months in advance, Allan shares his hopes for expanding SpeakEasy’s international reach and reveals plans for special events, including a future SpeakEasy event featuring young speakers.

It’s an inspiring conversation about community, connection, generosity and creating opportunities for people to simply find—and share—their voice.