This Christmas edition of the podcast brings festive curiosity, laughter, and a touch of magic. Ginny McNees chats with Violeta Saladiene whrere she asks a series of joyful Christmas questions. From childhood traditions and favourite festive foods to Christmas songs, films, pranks, and the weirdest presents ever unwrapped, the conversation is warm, playful, and full of nostalgic surprises.

Then, Tamara Evans takes us somewhere completely different — interviewing a cowboy. Yes, a real cowboy. Expect unexpected stories, unique perspectives, and a refreshingly unconventional take on life.

This special episode blends humour, heart, curiosity, and contrast, making it the perfect listen for anyone who loves Christmas conversations that go beyond the ordinary.Pour yourself a mulled drink, get cosy, and press play.

In this episode, our Club President, Anthony Garvey,sits down with Luisa Montalvo, the 2024 World Champion of Public Speaking. Luisa opens up about her journey to the world stage — the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and what it takes to become a champion.

We also hear from Virginia McNees, who shares her personal Pathways journey through her captivating Traveller’s Story. And because communication is more than just speaking — it’s about the words we choose and the impact they leave — this episode also features Tamara Evans. In her piece, The Power of Words, Tamara explores how the language we use shapes our thoughts, our emotions, and our relationships with others.

In the spotlight this month is Yogendra Paranjpe, Division A Director from District 91, shares his remarkable journey from life at sea to a leadership path in Toastmasters - in conversation with a podcast host Violeta Saladiene.

Plus, Tamara Evans reflects on the joy of contest season, and Ginny McNees serves up her special recipe for connection. Tune in to discover what ties it all together.

In our executive chair this month is a new club member AnneMarie Curtin straight from Dublin, Ireland. She shares her Toastmasters journey and claims it was one of the best decisions in her life. Also in this episode Tamara Evans unlocks the brain's hidden power and Ginny McNees shares how men can survive in the Mall.

Our main interview this month featues Daniel Magill, 2025winner of The District 91 International Speech Contest and atwo-time semi-finalist at The World Championships of PublicSpeaking. Daniel is sharing his experience behind the scienes of the World Championship. Also on the show Ginny McNees shares a story of sister Barbara and Tamara Evans explores why learning to say no can be one of the most empowering decisions you’ll ever make.

In this episode, we begin with an inspiring interview with a storytelling coach Haritosh Srivastav who took a bold leap—leaving a secure job in the UK to return to India and follow his true passion. He opens up about facing uncertainty, doubt, and the unknown in pursuit of purpose. Then, you hear a thought-provoking speech by Tamara Evans, who explores the role of modern journalism through the lens of Stoicism. Finally, Ginny Mc Nees shares her heartfelt and honest reflection on personal growth and reminds us that real transformation starts with commitment.

Our main interview this month features Colletor Gumbo, the 2025 District 71 International Speech Champion. Colletor has been a Toastmasters' member for just one year and she shares some hints, tips and advice for how you could become a champion speaker too. Also on the show, Laura Heathfield joins our podcast team and interviews new member, Fiona Donovan. And expert speaker and friend of Shilling Speakers, Sean Lyons shares with us some of his favourite, excellent Irish folklore.

Our main interview this episode features Ashley Tobin, a District 71 International Speech champion in 2020, who recently delivered a brilliant TEDx talk on the Menopause. Also in this episode, we hear from our brand new member, Florence Osuagwu and Laura Heathfield shares her icebreaker speech with us.