D50 After Dark Podcast
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Show Notes:
Breaking The Ice w/ Ezekiel Setne: Unlikely Public Speaking Journey from 4-H to Eco-Entrepreneur
Highlights
1:15 – Ezekiel’s background in rural Western Virginia
1:42 – Early public speaking and leading experiences in 4-H
5:13 – Ezekiel’s late introduction to Toastmasters
7:07 – Ezekiel’s college experience at Ivy Tech Community College
8:07 – Joining the new biotechnology program at Ivy Tech
9:02 – Benefits from pitching the biotech program to high school students
13:16 – Ezekiel’s current roles in Toastmasters
Summary:
In this episode of D50 After Dark, host Mickey Bennett interviews Ezekiel Setne, Area 61 Director in District 50 Toastmasters. Ezekiel shares his fascinating journey in public speaking, which began unexpectedly in his rural Western Virginia hometown. As a homeschooled child, Ezekiel joined 4-H through his church, discovering a natural talent for public speaking at age 11-12. He competed against older teens, winning third place in his first contest, and eventually became his 4-H club president.
Ezekiel’s path took an interesting turn when he enrolled at Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana. There, he joined a brand-new biotechnology program with only three students across all Ivy Tech campuses. This unique opportunity led him to pitch the program to local high schools, further honing his “on-the-fly” public speaking skills and securing a grant that helped him stay in school during financially challenging times.
Even though he had early success in public speaking in 4-H and in college, Ezekiel didn’t join Toastmasters until his early 30s, initially believing it was only for elite speakers. Now, he serves as the president of Plano Toastmasters and Area Director for Area 61.
Throughout the interview, Ezekiel and Mickey discover shared experiences, including both having attended Ivy Tech, which they jokingly refer to as their “Ivy League” education. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next conversation, promising to reveal how Ezekiel’s journey in public speaking led him from aspiring pre-med student to eco-entrepreneur in the recycling business, all through the power of public speaking. Tune in next time to find out!
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