If we’re really honest — public speaking does not sit on the top of most people’s “fun things to do” list. In fact, for many, it’s right up there with dental root canal or swimming with sharks. Apologies to dentist AND sharks.  

But here’s the good news: the fear of public speaking isn’t a life sentence. At Miranda Toastmasters, we’ve seen people go from trembling behind a lectern to delivering confident speeches with a smile and really meaning it. And it all starts with that first brave step.

What’s Really Behind the Fear?

The intense fear of public speaking (glossophobia, if you like fancy scientific terms) is extremely common. Why? Because it pokes at a very human worry: “What if I mess up in front of everyone?”, and ...

• What if I forget what to say? (we've all been there)
• What if they think I’m boring? (no way, everyone is different and interesting)
• What if I turn bright red and my voice shakes? (so what? push through it and it'll get better)

These fears aren’t irrational — they’re just unchallenged. And that’s where Toastmasters comes in.

The Toastmasters Approach to Confidence

Toastmasters doesn’t throw you onto a stage and say, “Good luck!” Instead, we provide a safe, encouraging space where you can build your skills gradually, as fast or as slow as you like.

Here’s how it works:

• You start as a guest — no speaking required (but if you’re at a meeting we encourage you to have a go … because that’s exactly why you’re there).
  
• While you’re learning you’re allocated the smaller, gentler roles, such as um and ah counter or timer that come with smaller speaking roles
  
• You’ll deliver your Ice Breaker speech, which is all about you, and lasts between four and six minutes.
  
• Over time, you take on bigger challenges, such as evaluator, Toastmaster or chairman — always at your own pace and always supported.
  

With every speech, you get structured, constructive feedback that helps you improve without crushing your confidence. 

You’re Not Alone — Literally

One of the most comforting things about Toastmasters is that everyone in the room gets it. We’ve all been the shaky beginner, the fast-talker, the nervous hand-clasper. There’s no judgement — only support, lots of applause, and sometimes a bit of laughter (with you, not at you).

Toastmasters provides mentoring. It’s an extra layer of support to help with speech writing, presentation skills, managing Pathways and a chance to get to know a little more about each other.

Some of our current members used to:

• Dread giving wedding speeches
  
• Avoid speaking up in meetings
  
• Skip networking events altogether
  

Now? They lead teams, speak on stage in front of hundreds of people, run workshops, and say yes to opportunities they would’ve once avoided at all costs.

Tips to Calm Your Speaking Nerves

While you’re building your confidence, here are a few simple strategies that really help:

1. Breathe — Deep breathing before you speak calms your body and brain.
   
2. Pause — Silence isn’t your enemy. Pauses make you sound more confident.
   
3. Focus on the message — Shift attention away from yourself and toward your audience. What are you giving them?
   
4. Join Toastmasters — Yes, we know, a not-so-subtle plug. But we also know it works.
   

Come Visit Miranda Toastmasters

If you’re scared of public speaking, Miranda Toastmasters is exactly where you need to be. No pressure, no scary spotlights — just a group of friendly humans cheering each other on.

Come to a meeting, say hello and see what it’s all about.

When and Where we meet

We meet on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month.

Meetings start at 7:00pm sharp and ask everyone arrive by 6.50pm and they’re usually over by 9:30pm Meetings go for around 2.5 hours, with a break in the middle.

For more information, visit the pages on this website, particularly the What’s On page.Or can email us and let us know you'll be there.

We hope to see you at a meeting.