Ep. 368 - 2026 World Championship of Public Speaking - THE CHAMPS CRITIQUE

The 2026 Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking  was held in August, and this special episode was requested by many. Darren and Mark are joined by fellow World Champions David Brooks (1990), Ed Tate (2000), Lance Miler (2005), and Aaron Beverly (2019) as they offer their observations and share their thoughts on the 2026 Finals.

SNIPPETS:

• The WCPS should be the best speakers in their best setting.

• The WCPS should be a showcase event and a marketing tool

• Energy at contest time is critical

• Get audience perspectives on what works and what doesn't

• Avoid using local references

• Don't stop when you make a mistake in rehearsal

• Provide levity amidst heavy moments

• The speaker who wins the audience wins the contest

• Give the audience something different

• Be demographically strategic