Cheers to Toastmasters and All They Do
We mixed things up in the studio by having Kindra Maples, the host of the Culture Crush Business Podcast, step in to host the Phoenix Business RadioX house show. She was joined on the air with producer Darrol Robinson as the co-host.
Michael Holian, from Toastmasters International joined Kindra and Darrol in the studio to discuss the ins and outs of the Toastmasters organization. This conversation was an opportunity to truly learn and understand the organization, since there is way more involved than you might have known.
Did you know that there are various levels and opportunities with Toastmaster for youth, not just the main clubs that are for individuals over the age of 18?
Did you know that there is a Toastmasters club at the Florence Prison?
Did you know that there are almost 16,000 clubs in 149 countries that are involved as a mixture of in person, virtual, and hybrid?
This group does not only offer individuals the opportunity to become better public speakers, but also to become better communicators, provide opportunities to network with others, and teaches a variety of skills that are vital in thriving in the workplace.
It is never too late to get connected and work on these various skills with Toastmasters. 
Head over to their website to find an “open” club near you.
Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., the organization’s membership exceeds 300,000 in more than 15,800 clubs in 149 countries.
Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org. Follow @Toastmasters on Twitter.
Michael J. Holian, DTM, of Chandler, Arizona, is an information technology specialist for CSAA Insurance Group, where he has worked for the past eight years. He is the product owner and administrator for a suite of software collaboration and developmental tools. Holian is the chair of the governance board, responsible for identifying best practices, reviewing proposed changes, and communicating the product roadmap.
Holian attended Chubb Institute of Computer Technology, where he earned a certification in computer programming. He is a community impact champion for his employer and coordinates volunteer activities for fellow employees. Additionally, Holian volunteers his time for the Special Olympics, a local foodbank, and other organizations through his employer.
A Toastmaster since 1992, Holian is a member of his home club, Leader’s Plus Toastmasters, in Mesa, Arizona. He has held a number of high-profile leadership positions within Toastmasters such as District Director and has attained the Distinguished Toastmaster designation—the highest level of educational achievement in the organization.
“Throughout this journey in Toastmasters, I have honed my emotional intelligence, listening, and leadership skills in such a way that I’m able to use these skills every day in my professional life to provide leadership, regardless of organizational standing,” Holian said. “My Toastmasters experience has also expanded my understanding of other people and cultures, providing opportunities for friendships and increasing my understanding of diverse experiences and perspectives.”
As a member of the Toastmasters International Board of Directors, Holian is a “working ambassador” for the organization. He works with the Board to develop, support, and modify the policies and procedures that guide Toastmasters International in fulfilling its mission.
Follow Toastmasters International on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Kindra Maples is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).
She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.
Then came the opportunity for leading the Culture Crush Business Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.
