English Public Speaking

👉 Enroll at **[www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html](http://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html)** Our ***Beginner Banter Club*** meets online and is available to all Spanish learners at the A1-B1 levels who want to start speaking and build confidence. Each week, we’ll explore vocabulary and cultural themes like holidays, food, and daily life in the Spanish-speaking world. **​**Location: Zoom Day: Mondays, 5pm - 6pm ET ​Price: $27.50 / session or FREE with monthly credits 🎁 **FREE Trial Event Available!** Use code **FREECLUB** when you sign up. 👉 Enroll at **[https://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html](https://www.worklifespanish.com/conversational-spanish-clubs.html)**

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Venezuela’s Future—and Ours,”** an analysis of how the Trump administration’s intervention in Venezuela will affect that nation, the U.S., and the rest of the world, with Ernesto Castañeda, Director of the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies and the Immigration Lab at American University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-venezuela-future](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-venezuela-future) .] On January 3rd, after a long military buildup, the United States used special forces to seize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their residence in Caracas, Venezuela to stand trial here on criminal charges. The development marked a major turning point in our relationship with Venezuela and the rest of Latin America and raised a host of complex questions, not just for Venezuelans living inside and outside that country but for American citizens and other nations of the world. Coming to the stage to break down what all of this means is Ernesto Castañeda, a scholar of Latin America who has given several excellent Profs and Pints talks on immigration policy and has given dozens of interviews to media outlets around the world in the wake of the U.S. raid. In a talk offering informed perspective on the latest news developments, Professor Castañeda will discuss various theories about why the U.S. conducted the operation to get Maduro out of Venezuela. He’s put our nation’s current plans for Venezuela into context by touching on previous U.S. military interventions in Latin America and beyond. Professor Castañeda will look at the implications of recent events for U.S. politics and U.S. citizens and what such developments tell us about the balance of power in the United States. He’ll examine the distance between decisions made by the White House and public priorities, touching on how it all relates to our immigration policies and our views about peaceful protest and democracy. He’ll consider how the Venezuela raid and our actions since have altered relations between the U.S. and other nations and provide scenarios about what the future might hold. (Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

The Kritikos Toastmasters Club has been serving West Anne Arundel County since 1965. Our learn-by-doing program is sure to help you become a better speaker and leader. Why pay thousands of dollars for a seminar when you can join Toastmasters for a fraction of the cost and have fun in the process? What's in it for you? Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you’ll be more persuasive and confident. How does it work? Kritikos meetings are friendly and supportive. The Toastmasters self-paced program allows you to learn new techniques and build confidence with each speaking assignment. You'll love the applause! Each time you give a prepared speech, an evaluator will point out strengths and suggest improvements. Our club is focused on teamwork, encouragement, and fun. Visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/270025263113623/

We are teaming up with Mapillary to host the February GeoDC meetup at the Meta DC office. Whether you’re a local Washingtonian, a seasoned OSM contributor, or a GIS professional. Join us for an evening of lightning talks, networking, and amazing conversations about maps and geospatial technology with a focus on street-level imagery. Since this event is being held at the Meta office you must[ RSVP using this form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe35JmapvZlryI3f-uZbpbA-zNFHUGlWO_-8N1yCyFQs00sNQ/viewform) by Friday February 6th. Space is limited so keep an eye out for the event update. Check out the lineup below for details and let us know if you've used Mapillary and would like to talk about your experience. ### The Lineup 18:00 \| Doors Open: Grab a slice\, a drink\, and catch up with fellow mappers\. 18:45 \| Welcome: Quick intros from the GeoDC crew and Mapillary\. 19:00 \| Lightning Talks: Rapid\-fire presentations on GIS\, cartography\, and the power of open imagery\. * Interested in speaking? Reach out! 19:45 \| The Spatial Social: Open networking and informal demos\.

2:00–4:00 p.m.: Circuit Court 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Community Services Learn about free and convenient services offered by the Circuit Court and Community Services.

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

\*\*\* Note: Our Feb 10, 2026, meeting will be our semi-annual club speech contest. As a result, guests who attend will not experience a typical Toastmasters meeting. Guests are more than welcome to experience a speech contest. \*\*\* At Toastmasters, we empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Our meetings provide a supportive and positive learning environment where members grow through prepared speeches, impromptu speaking (Table Topics), and constructive evaluations. Whether you're looking to overcome your fear of public speaking, enhance your work communication, or develop leadership skills, you're welcome here. Guests are always invited to observe first. If you'd like to speak, we’ll ask before inviting you to participate - no pressure at all. See how Toastmasters can help you build confidence, develop new skills, and connect with a community focused on growth.

Ready to speak with confidence and lead with impact? Join **Silver Spring Toastmasters at White Oak Library**—where voices grow stronger, leaders are made, and personal growth takes center stage! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned professional, you’ll find a welcoming community that celebrates progress and purpose. **Visit our next meeting and start your transformation today!**

The Prince George’s County Women’s Bureau Toastmasters Club is hosting an in-person Open House during our monthly meeting on Thursday, February 12, 2026, and we’d love to see you there! **Meeting Info:** 7:00–8:15 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.) Bowie Senior Center \| 14900 Health Center Dr\. Bowie\, MD * Great speeches * New member induction * Fun impromptu speaking practice * Supportive, confidence-building environment **Theme:** Self-Love – The Sweetest Valentine **Word of the Day**: Dazzling **Bonus Word:** Ameliorate Whether you’re curious about Toastmasters or ready to grow your voice and leadership skills, this is the perfect meeting to attend. Register here: [https://tinyurl.com/8p74at8t](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F8p74at8t%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNkFLNE5QZWJBWTVxVHJNZ3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7tTJ7p0oglSfHw_-CTvW8aJeF5bmj3YUnbbVCiL0QiJt9NGLKHwoMirQjvgQ_aem_z3oKDY1CuOzc_ZhW2HxiOA&h=AT2PUFe88SYy-sSKRLM79IplE220459h690sgni9jRblrd3rXRRlSVoSHWQGKKKTZx1RsFegipNnD8ZUyzLHRSGggxXxXKbI2yeWR60fsahMvef1v-mK6C2ySP90IaYpyP9Zq84bTj0HuMd2LmJ6I8bKa4A4tQ&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5B0%5D=AT1Bi8qC9abXRGKMmMIP4S143MfNqlz1WMY6y_4zhXu3tjLou8nO6wFi_fIlvYMXbMHs5EekWT8VVUF7aSo0J1RbmhaKQPH1EU8c5LYyfA4COMz-bBLfQwbmaaXtFgspKrUDtSVNm7CAAXt0eHkTwUWXbjPkkHaU9L7zrn1AjKk92JTIHdvWsTPxwUttpdUFRHYHMLgUmMJ2qw2scfxRT9g3)

Come join Bella Zee & Black Queer Click for Bday & Vday Party at Decades in DC on February 14, 2026. Enjoy free shots, cup cakes, good music, and make new friends. Wear your best outfit! Follow Bellazeebella on IG and Snapchat

DUPONT SPEAKS is a culturally and professionally diverse lunchtime club in the heart of Washington, DC. We meet from noon–1 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month, as well as the occasional 5th Wednesday. Our guiding principle is that we all have fun as we travel the road to better public speaking. That's why all of our meetings are filled with laughter and applause, as well as thoughtful speeches, evaluations and support. We hope to see — and hear — you soon! To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/dupontspeaks . http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/f/4/6/600_457832582.jpeg

https://youtu.be/2hV0hjneKUQ We are group of diverse individuals who invest in improving our public speaking and leadership skills within a warm and supportive environment. We will meet at Jack Taylor's Alexandria Toyota, just across the street from the Potomac Yard shopping center in Alexandria. You can park on the side street or behind the facility. Enter through the main entrance and proceed directly across the showroom to the staircase behind the main desk. Proceed to the top of the stairs and turn to your right. The meeting room is at the end of the hallway. Hope to see you there!

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Single Lesson,”** a debunking of myths and misconceptions about singlehood and a look at research and advocacy efforts focused on the unmarried, with Craig Wynne, a professor of English at the University of the District of Columbia and pioneer in the growing field of Singles Studies. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at[ https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson]( https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson) .] All around us are messages that being “coupled up” is the norm. Shows like *The Bachelor*, 90-Day Fiancé, and *Indian Matchmaking* have people rooting and fawning for marriage. Yet, despite its supposed unpopularity, the rate of singlehood is increasing. By 2030, the Pew Research Center has projected, 25 percent of 45- to 54-year-old adults in the United States will never have married. What’s the real picture when it comes to singles? Is a growing share of the population missing out on marital bliss, or are single people on to something? Hear such questions tackled by Professor Craig Wynne, co-editor of *Singular Selves: An Introduction to Singles Studies* and author of *How to be a Happy Bachelor.* Dr. Wynne will discuss how stereotypes of singlehood are perpetuated in the media and how they influence laws, policies, and our daily social interactions in ways that harm not just single people but those who are married, cohabitating, or in a relationship. His talk will explore the concepts of “singlism,” the stereotyping and stigma around people who are not married or otherwise unpartnered; “matrimania,” over-the-top societal obsession with marriage and weddings; and “amatonormativity,” the assumption that a romantic relationship must be prioritized above all other kinds. Finally, Dr. Wynne will discuss the emergence of Singles Studies—a field devoted to granting singlehood validity in an academic context—and look at recent advocacy intended to secure single people equity in a world that still privileges being married or coupled. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

The topic for February is "Transitions" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the **Columbus Public Library (Northside Branch)** in **Meeting Room 3** to speak in Italian for 1 hour. \*Note the change in location this week due to no space the Upper Arlington library.\* Keeping Monday for consistency but we can discuss if there are better days/times/locations! Perhaps we can do two times a week as well. TBD.