Episode 55: My Toastmasters journey - with Jim Kokocki

The Talkative Toastmaster

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Public speaking can feel daunting, but what if there were a way to transform fear into confidence? Join us as we explore this transformation with Jim Kokocki, former International President of Toastmasters International, who shares his journey from a timid computer programmer to a masterful communicator.
With the help of mentors Arnold and Bill, Jim found his voice and harnessed the power of Toastmasters to launch a successful professional speaking career. Throughout our discussion, Jim candidly reveals the surprising challenges of condensing his expertise into Toastmasters' traditional five to seven-minute speech format, a contrast to his usual expansive speaking engagements.
We dive into the world of leadership within volunteer organisations, where Jim reflects on his admiration for the dedication of club leaders, especially in smaller clubs. He shares insights from his time as Toastmasters' International President and his subsequent role on the board of L'Arche Saint John, highlighting the distinctive dynamics between volunteer and corporate leadership. Jim's experiences underscore the importance of balancing commitment with sustainability to prevent burnout and foster a thriving community spirit.
Jim's wealth of experience offers valuable lessons on expanding skills beyond Toastmasters' walls. We discuss leveraging the practical skills gained, such as running meetings and mastering communications, to excel in various settings. Jim also emphasises the transition from speaking to writing as a tool to refine communication skills further. Whether mentoring new members or setting personal and club goals, Jim's advice is clear: seek opportunities outside the organisation to maximise growth and impact, ensuring the Toastmasters journey remains a transformative and enriching experience.
Links
Jim's Blog

Jim's Amazon profile (with links to his books)
Jim's Speaker Reel

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To learn more about Toastmasters International, visit: www.toastmasters.org
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