In this episode of D50 After Dark, 1:45 Mickey welcomes Aletta Rochat, the First Vice President of Toastmasters International, back to the show. They discuss the excitement about her upcoming visit to the District 50 Spring Conference in Dallas. Mickey highlights that 2024 marks the 100-year anniversary of Toastmasters, an organization that has become an enduring global institution spanning multiple generations.
Aletta shares insights into her keynote speech, titled "The Difference between Ordinary and Extraordinary," 4:47 which will recount stories of three Toastmasters who made indelible impressions on her for different reasons over
her 16-year journey. She aims to demonstrate what made these individuals and their clubs truly extraordinary. Aletta confesses she would "rather be extraordinary than ordinary if at all possible."
6:18 Looking back, Aletta credits Toastmasters with teaching her early on the importance of giving back through taking on leadership roles, even before feeling fully prepared. This mindset of raising her hand and saying yes to a leadership role has opened up extraordinary opportunities she never envisioned initially. Aletta credits Toastmasters for not only enhancing her public speaking skills but also for positively impacting her personal and professional life. It has led to accomplishments like publishing two books—The Wedding Speaker's Guide and Speak Connect Succeed—and building an international coaching business focused on executive presence.
11:03 As First VP, Aletta frequently delivers pragmatic, hands-on workshops and keynotes at district events, satisfying part of the executive committee's role as brand
ambassadors. Aletta describes her style of interactive workshops where practical ideas are shared, and
participants are encouraged to apply them during the session. 12:23 In explaining her strategy for longer-format keynote speeches, she recommends storytelling techniques, engaging the audience through Q&A, and strict time
management.
Aletta eagerly anticipates her educational session in Dallas, as well as the networking mix-and-mingle where she can directly interact with District 50 members. These events allow leaders to listen to members' feedback while expressing appreciation for their involvement. Aletta views each new connection as her "Toastmasters family" continuing to grow.
Mickey encourages listeners to register immediately at D50tm.org for the District 50 Spring Conference. This will allow them to attend Aletta's keynote speech, educational session, and mix-and-mingle where they can meet her
in person.
The next D50 After Dark episode with Aletta will focus on strategies for club growth and building membership.
Register for the 2024 Spring Conference TODAY at
