Following the Laughter: How Rhonda Bunte Discovered Toastmasters
Highlights
(2:06) Rhonda Bunte’s career as an audit specialist
(4:35) – Inspired by hearing laughter and applause from a conference room
(7:27) – The open corporate club at FDIC welcomes both employees and outside members
(9:18) - Shares success stories of helping fellow members
(14:36) - Describes pivotal leadership experience organizing division contest
Summary
In this episode of D50 After Dark, host Mickey Bennett interviews Rhonda Bunte, District 50's Club Growth Director. The interview focuses on Rhonda's personal journey in Toastmasters and the impact it has had on both her life and those around her.
Rhonda begins by sharing her professional background, having spent 30 years at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as an audit specialist in the Office of Inspector General. Her introduction to Toastmasters came through an unexpected source—the sound of laughter and applause from a nearby conference room—which stood out in contrast to the typically analytical environment of the FDIC.
The interview reveals how Rhonda joined the "open corporate club" at FDIC, where the corporation supported employee membership while also welcoming outside members. This club has remained her home club for 26 years, demonstrating her long-term commitment to the organization.
Throughout the conversation, Rhonda shares several inspiring success stories of fellow Toastmasters. One particularly powerful narrative involved a colleague who initially joined to develop facilitation skills and eventually became an assistant professor and professional coach in FDIC's leadership program. Another compelling story featured a self-described shy member who transformed through Toastmasters and rose to an executive position, later becoming an advocate for referring her staff to the program.
The highlight of Rhonda's own leadership journey is her experience organizing a division contest during the pandemic. This challenge forced her out of her comfort zone, requiring her to adapt to online formats and develop new networking skills. She emphasizes how this experience contributed to her growth in leadership.
The interview concludes with information about "Sell the Sizzle," a District 50 promotion encouraging members and clubs to share their Toastmasters success stories through videos. Incentives are "Bookstore Bucks" that can be used for Toastmasters merchandise and conference tickets.
Throughout the conversation, Rhonda emphasizes the dual benefits of Toastmasters: professional development and personal transformation. Her stories consistently highlight how the organization helps members develop not just public speaking skills, but also leadership abilities, networking capabilities, and personal confidence.
The interview ends with a promise of a follow-up episode focusing specifically on Rhonda's role as Club Growth Director, suggesting more insights to come about district leadership and growth strategies.
Check out https://d50tm.org/incentives/ “Sell the Sizzle” parts 1 & 2
