From Zoom to a Live Audience of Hundreds

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Jul 16, 2026

By Deb Samuels-Peretz, PhD

Last night, I presented in front of an audience of a few hundred people. It was my first time speaking in front of a live audience since COVID.

I struggled so much with nerves when speaking publicly that it was why I joined Toastmasters. But it was during COVID when I joined, so all our meetings were online. My club is across the country from me, so even though many clubs went back to meeting in person, I stayed on Zoom.

Thanks to Toastmasters, my delivery and confidence improved greatly. I pay attention to vocal variety, hand gestures, pacing—even humor. I am no longer so very nervous about presenting to an audience via Zoom. In fact, sometimes I even enjoy it! Usually, that comes after the speech.

But live? Well, that is another story altogether.

I am utterly dependent on my notes because, when I see all the faces in front of me, my mind goes blank. My notes help me find my way back. But all the speakers I admire speak without notes. So I rehearsed and rehearsed until my voice was hoarse.

Last night was it.

Me. Live. Big audience. High stakes. Nerves…very high.

But I did it.

It may not have been quite as natural and easy as I would have liked, and I did need to refer to my notes a few times, but I can say that it was the best public presentation I have ever given.

I received many compliments. One person even said he could tell that I had studied public speaking.

All I can say is: Thank you, Toastmasters! And especially thank you to my wonderful club, Heart2Heart, which is full of amazing people. I could not have done it without you.

I still have a ways to go, but I will get there.

Dr. Deb Peretz is a business and life coach helping individuals and organizations develop their soft skill super powers to succeed at work and in life. A former college professor, she is particularly passionate about helping new grads get hired and thrive in the workplace. She is the co-founder and VP of Learning and Development for TheRealMe.io

Whether you are new to Toastmasters or a seasoned Toastmaster, you are always welcome as our guest at Heart2Heart Toastmasters Meetings. Our club meetings are the 4th Thursday of every month on Zoom from 6:00-7:00pm PT and the 1st Saturday of the month on Zoom from 3:30 PM-6:00pm PT.

You are always welcome as our guest! We hope to see you soon!