Do you have glossophobia? The fear of public speaking affects about 40% of the population, even more than the fear of death, spiders or heights, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. 

If you’re looking to enhance your public speaking and leadership skills—whether for work, volunteering or personal growth—consider joining Toastmasters. You’ll not only learn new skills but also make friends and build your self-confidence along the way. 

SHAPING LEADERS 

Toastmasters has come a long way since its humble beginnings at a Santa Ana, California, YMCA in 1924. Today, over 14,200 Toastmasters clubs meet in 148 countries around the world. 

In El Paso County, more than a dozen clubs meet both online and in person. Two such clubs are 21st Century Toastmasters, which draws members from diverse backgrounds, including retirees and working professionals, and Building Your Brand (BYB), which focuses on helping members market themselves and refine their writing skills.

At 21st Century Toastmasters, four members, including President Linda Rinehart, 64, have earned the prestigious Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award—the highest honor Toastmasters International bestows. These members serve as mentors and provide inspiration to new and seasoned members alike. 

“I joined Toastmasters so that I could improve my speaking skills as a mental health advocate and speaker,” said Rinehart, who has been a member for nearly 23 years. 

She credits Toastmasters’ positive atmosphere for helping her gain the confidence to speak publicly. 

“It’s so fulfilling to be part of an outstanding group of people who are dedicated to helping one another in a spirit of sharing and enjoyment,” she said. 

Mentoring and fellowship are the backbone of Toastmasters and contribute to the organization’s enduring popularity. This spirit of camaraderie inspired Rinehart to compete in the annual International Speech Contest, where she reached the Division level twice.

Beyond her success as a speaker, Rinehart has served in multiple officer roles at the club and district levels. These roles help members develop a range of skills, including public relations, team building and finance management. 

CHALLENGES TO TRIUMPHS

BYB stands out with its unique workshop component, offering extended presentations on topics such as marketing, writing and leading online meetings. The club’s members are currently collaborating on a book that chronicles the challenges they’ve faced and the inspirational lessons they’ve learned

BYB President Laura Amundson has been a member for over a year and values the club’s unique approach. A Toastmaster of eight years, Amundson credits her speech therapist for encouraging her to take the plunge. 

“My speech therapist recognized that I lacked confidence in myself,” Amundson said. “Toastmasters has helped me tremendously. I feel more confident as a person, commentator and leader.”

In 2023, she competed in the International Speech Contest, in which she shared her journey with cerebral palsy. She competed against Toastmasters across the entire state of Colorado, placing third at the District level.

Toastmasters celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. Come find out why this organization has been so enduring. Clubs focus on making guests feel comfortable, and you won’t be asked to give a speech at your first meeting! 

LOCAL TOASTMASTERS CLUBS

21st Century Toastmasters

Meets on Fridays from 1-2 p.m.
Fire Station 19, 2490 Research Pkwy.
720-989-8944
21c.toastmastersclubs.org 

Building Your Brand

Both clubs may also be joined via Zoom.