Listen in on this delightful conversation with past Blue Mountains Toastmaster member Jess Kingsford.

Happy Hearts Parenting is a not-for-profit organisation helping parents and carers of young children promote their child's wellbeing by nurturing their moral development.

Learn more about our Foundations Program: http://happyheartsparenting.org/moreinfo_sf

Visit the Happy Hearts Parenting website: https://happyheartsparenting.org/

Jess shares her transformative journey and insights from her experience with the Blue Mountains Toastmasters. Initially inspired by her mother-in-law’s glowing recommendation and her own desire to improve public speaking for her career, she joined the organization in 2019 after completing her PhD in childhood moral development. Despite her prior experience in theatre and academia, she sought to refine her skills and reduce nerves.

Through three years with Toastmasters, she gained invaluable skills, including speech structuring, practicing impromptu speaking, and eliminating filler words. These improvements boosted her confidence and ability to deliver impactful speeches, exemplified by a successful fundraising event for a charity she leads and a heartfelt speech at her father’s 90th birthday.

Professionally, Toastmasters enhanced her ability to communicate in her current role with her online parenting program, Happy Hearts Parenting. This program equips parents with practical strategies to foster compassion, gratitude, and moral development in children, emphasizing the interconnectedness of well-being and relationships.

Reflecting on her Toastmasters experience, she encourages others to join, highlighting the unexpected benefits and personal growth it offers. She plans to return when time allows, continuing her lifelong journey of improving communication and leadership skills.