When people think about speech and debate, they often picture structure, rules, and competition — carefully written outlines, well-researched sources, and polished delivery. And while those things matter, there’s another ingredient that sets great speakers apart from good ones: creativity.
Creativity is what transforms a standard speech into a story, a logical argument into a memorable moment, and a routine performance into something alive. It’s what helps you find new angles, take risks, and connect with your audience in ways they don’t expect. It is part of the INTERESTING component in the I-Test!! How can you bring creativity into speech and debate and why does this set competitors apart? Keep reading…
We’re excited to announce that Heather Neumann, founder of Lasting Impact!, will be partnering with NCFCA today for a special Speech Committee Webinar— an opportunity to dive deep into this season’s new speech events: Biblical Presentation and Oratorical Thematic. Pro tip from Heather… “Fully understanding the rules is one of my go-to lessons when assisting students, parents, and coaches, and today you have the opportunity to hear from the speech committee personally about the new events NCFCA is offering. This will be an excellent opportunity to learn, grow, and get inspired.”
Join the event as we explore the heart and purpose behind these new categories. Together, we’ll discuss:
The unique value of each event and how they can shape well-rounded communicators
A review of the rules and structure for both categories
Inspiration for impactful themes and primary sources to help students craft meaningful speeches
This is the perfect opportunity for students, parents, and coaches to gain valuable insight and get excited for the season ahead!
When: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – TODAY!! Time: 2:00 PM CT Where: Online via Zoom Register here:Click to Register
If you can’t attend live, don’t worry! The event will be recorded and made available on the Resources page of the NCFCA website.
We can’t wait to unpack these exciting new opportunities and equip students to grow in their speaking and storytelling skills. Hope to see you there! If you would like to learn more from Heather or the Lasting Impact! Team schedule a one on one session or a club coaching session today!
Choosing a speech topic doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—you don’t need the “perfect” idea right away. Instead, think of it as a step-by-step journey. Start wide with brainstorming (I do this activity with my students in club, camps, and even one on one coaching calls AND its a WORKSHEET in my Grab and Go Speech Lesson Plans)! The list of ideas gradually narrows and refines your until you land on one that excites you and passes the I-Test. Along the way, you’ll filter out weaker options, gather feedback, and shape your topic into something clear, focused, and powerful. By the end of this process, you’ll have more than just a topic—you’ll have a strong foundation for a memorable and impactful speech. Continue reading the process...
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One of the most intimidating early decisions in preparing a speech is: What should I talk about? Especially in a competition setting, the topic you choose can make or (or literally;) break how memorable, effective, and persuasive your speech can become. A few years ago I created The I-Test. The system I use to test topics and ideas. Let's be real, all National winning speeches tend to pass the test! And this year, I added a couple criteria that can also make a difference! Will your speech topic pass the test? Read on and learn about the ways to craft a speech to make sure it will make a lasting impact!
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Welcome to Lasting Impact! If you are new here or need a reminder of who we are, what we do, or OUR HEARTS, let me share that with you! At Lasting Impact, we believe that every voice deserves to be heard—and what better way to equip young people than through the art of communication and speech and debate. For over a decade, we’ve been supporting students not just in developing rhetorical confidence, but in nurturing their Christian worldview so they can speak with conviction, grace, and purpose.
What Makes Lasting Impact! Different
Christ-Centered Coaching: We don’t just teach students how to speak—we help them understand why their words matter. Our coaches guide competitors to articulate truth, act with integrity, and reflect Christ in every argument and interaction.
Real-World Skills, Real-World Faith: From our countless resources to coaching sessions to debate strategy and script assessments, our tools are grounded in practical skills—but always rooted in biblical principles.
A Legacy of Growth, Not Just Trophies: Our goal isn’t to chase awards—it’s to cultivate growth. As one coach reflects, we help students see that “competition allows you the opportunity… to learn to effectively communicate a Christian worldview.”
Our Community & Coaches Our team—seasoned coaches and Christian mentors—is committed to walking alongside each student. Whether you’re shaping your delivery, fine-tuning an argument, or seeking encouragement between rounds, our coaches bring both expertise and heartfelt support. Their genuine love for the students shows in every class, every feedback session, and every post-tournament conversation.
Why Lasting Impact! Matters In a world where media and communication are powerful tools, we equip students to use their voices wisely—answering not just for trophies or applause, but for dignity, truth, and to ultimately deepen their faith. Speech and debate becomes more than a hobby: it becomes a platform for Christ.
Get in Touch Curious how your student can get started? Whether it’s private coaching, script feedback, or an online club, we’re here to help them grow. Reach out and let’s start this journey together.
Heather Neumann is the Founder and Director of Lasting Impact! She continues to coach, lead clubs, mentor students and parents, runs tournaments, and still makes time to direct theater and write plays. She loves spending time with her own family any chance she can get. She can be reached at heather@lastingimpact.info
Although most our clubs have started we are still happy to welcome a few more! Why not start with FREE Apologetics TONIGHT! That’s right we decided that we’re going to do something completely different for apol club this year.
We’re dropping discussion of the specific Speech and Debate Apol topics in favor of a broader, more holistic approach. In short: seminary crash course. This is not just for students, but it’s for anyone who’s interested… parents, siblings, even alumni. Register with the code PARENT2025. You can register here: https://lastingimpact.info/product/club23864/.
Here are some of the things we’ll discuss:
– Why is there so much overlap between Matthew, Mark, and Luke? How could they possibly remember word for word what Jesus said to them?
– When should we interpret Scriptures literally or figuratively?
– Why do 1 & 2 Kings tell the exact same stories 1 & 2 Chronicles do?
– How do we deal with the transgenderism argument that some people are born “intersex,” with both genitalia?
– What is the point of including the minor prophets in Scripture?
– Where in the Bible does it say that women cannot be pastors, if the word “pastor” only shows up once?
And MANY other things. If you enjoyed last semester, this one will be even better.
This has been my project for the last two years while in school for seminary. Trying to distill important things you never hear about if you don’t go to seminary into a single semester-long course! This information you are bound to use in your Apologetics rounds, but more importantly life! I would love for any of you to join, again, even if you’re graduated. It’s for everyone—and it starts TODAY! Don’t miss out!
Ethan will be receiving his Masters of Divinity from Truett Theological Seminary in December of 2025. He attended Hillsdale College, where he graduated in the top ten of his class. He has been a Lasting Impact! coach for over three years.
This isn’t a repetition of the basics of LD you learned about in summer camp. This isn’t just a few hours of google searches summarized into a document. This is over one hundred pages and hundreds of hours of research!! It’s PACKED full of AMAZING content that you will want for the 2025-2026 NCFCA year. Lasting Impact’s model is to provide you with arguments and examples that you can use ALL YEAR long. This resource is for students who are looking to go deeper into the arguments.
If you haven’t yet decided which debate format to pursue this season, now is the perfect time to explore LD – especially with a resolution that’s truly out of this world. (Check out our article on why we think this year’s NCFCA topic is stellar. LINK HERE). And now, we’re excited to announce the release of our 2025–26 Lasting Impact! LD Debate Resource:
Elements of Lincoln-Douglas – A Handbook for Mastering Outer Space
Whether you’re a seasoned debater or just getting started, this 187-pagehandbook is packed with tools and resources to help you engage confidently in Lincoln Douglas Debate, but specifically with this year’s NCFCA resolution:
“In the exploration and utilization of outer space, international cooperation should be prioritized.”
This Resource is MORE Than Just Cases – A Complete Debate Toolbox!!
Unlike debate sourcebooks that focus only on sample cases,Elements of Lincoln-Douglas offers a well-rounded, practical guide for students, coaches, and parents alike.
Inside, you’ll find:
Instruction in Core LD Skills – From cross-examination techniques to narrative development
Rich Topic Analysis – Articles exploring sci-fi and media bias, liberalism vs. realism, ethical frameworks, biblical worldview, and lessons from the Age of Exploration
Step-by-Step Case Construction – Learn how to define terms, analyze the resolution, choose a value, build contentions, and write compelling applications
Strategic Negative Argumentation – Insights on how to develop a negative strategy, including tactics, examples, and ready-to-use applications
Interactive Worksheets – Tools to help students build, revise, and refine cases and to practice cross examination
Coaching Tips Throughout – Practical advice, reminders, and helpful strategies
Seven Full Cases!!! – Featuring contributions from national champions Alithea West (2024 Stoa Mars Hill and Parli Debate Champion) and Caleb McClure (2025 NCFCA LD Champion)
Guidance and Strategy for the Season
Think of this handbook as your personal mentor for the debate season. It will save you hours of research, clarify complex ideas, and guide you in developing clear, strategic, and compelling arguments. Many of the tools and tips inside are the same techniques we teach in our coaching sessions and camps.
Written With Experience – From Both Sides of the Table
Co-authored by an experienced NCFCA coach and parent alum who is still active in the league, and a seasoned NCFCA alum debater currently competing in college, this guide brings over 20 years of combined experience into one resource. Their unique perspectives offer a blend of insight, encouragement, and wisdom that sets this handbook apart.
Don’t start your season without it! Grab your copy of Elements of Lincoln-Douglas and get ready to launch (pun intended) your best LD season yet. Head to the SHOP and purchase yours today! Or click HERE. The introductory price is $40 for Lasting Impact! Members, $50 for nonmembers.
Hillary Kolssak: Hillaryhas been teaching and coaching Lincoln-Douglas debate for over a decade. Throughout the years, she has guided many students in developing a deeper understanding of values-based debate and helped them think critically about the weighty topics LD presents. In addition to coaching, she has judged hundreds of rounds and has a strong grasp of how students can effectively connect with and persuade their judges. She is currently serving as club co-director, advanced speech coach and LD coach at EverReady Speech & Debate Club in the Chicago area.
She recently completed the Colson Fellows Program, which equips individuals to examine life’s issues through a biblical worldview – an approach she brings into her teaching. Hillary is passionate about helping students excel in both speech and debate, but even more importantly, she seeks to cultivate growth in integrity, wisdom, and character.
Nathanael Kolssak: Nathanael grew up attending NCFCA tournaments with his older siblings, and when he was old enough, he began competing in Team Policy. Over his many years in the league, he also competed in Interp, Limited Prep, Platform speeches, Moot Court, and Lincoln-Douglas, earning numerous awards along the way. During his senior year, he won Team Policy at Regionals.
Nathanael attends Cedarville University, where he serves as co-captain of the debate team. He competes in college speech and parliamentary debate and actively coaches students, emphasizing narrative techniques in debate. Majoring in Communication, he plans to pursue a Master’s degree in the same field, focusing on rhetoric. Passionate about teaching and mentorship, Nathanael hopes to one day teach communication, helping students develop their skills in speaking with grace and persuasion.
Are you ready to sharpen your speaking skills, think faster on your feet, and have fun while learning? This fall, we are excited to launch a series of online speech and debate clubs designed to help students of all experience levels grow, compete, and explore their potential. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, these clubs provide a multi-week, supportive environment to improve, practice, and succeed.
Here’s what we have lined up for the 1st Semester 2025-26:
Speech 101 & Speech 102 – Perfect for beginners and those looking to polish foundational skills. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling speech, use your voice effectively, and engage any audience. These classes build confidence, structure, and technique—essential skills whether you’re speaking in class or preparing for competition.
Apol Club with Ethan Tong – Dive into the world of Apologetics and sharpen your ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and defend ideas with clarity. This club encourages intellectual curiosity and the confidence to present complex ideas in a thoughtful way. And in case you haven’t heard – it’s FREE!
Fall LD Club with Ethan Tong – Lincoln-Douglas debate is all about persuasion, evidence, and ethics. In this multi-week club, students will analyze cases, practice argumentation, and learn strategies that make them compelling speakers and sharp thinkers.
Moot Court Caselaw Club with Ethan Tong – Step into the courtroom in this exciting exploration of legal reasoning and argumentation. Students will review real cases, prepare briefs, and practice delivering oral arguments—developing skills in logic, rhetoric, and critical thinking that go far beyond the debate stage.
Extemp Club with Roman Hogancamp – Learn to think on your feet in current events extemporaneous speaking. This club teaches students how to quickly analyze topics, organize their thoughts, and present concise, persuasive speeches—all while staying informed and confident.
Interp / Drama Club – Explore storytelling, performance, and character interpretation. Students will work on monologues, scenes, and interpretive pieces, enhancing voice, body language, and emotional impact in both performance and competitive settings.
Each of these clubs lasts throughout the first semester, giving students time to practice, grow, and see real improvement. Unlike one-time webinar or workshop, our clubs allow for consistent feedback, skill-building exercises, and a chance to develop lasting relationships with fellow students who are equally passionate about speech and debate.
Whether your goal is to gain confidence speaking in front of others, compete successfully, or simply enjoy the art of communication, there’s a club here for you. Plus, the online format means you can join from the comfort of home while still engaging in interactive, collaborative learning.
Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Join us this fall and take your skills to the next level. Your voice is powerful—let’s make sure it’s heard. Go to the SHOP NOW and sign up!
Did you know Lasting Impact! has a variety of Speech and Debate Clubs? Check out the SHOP to see what’s in store for Fall 2025 – https://lastingimpact.info/product-category/clubs/
If you are looking for a coach to jump into your clubs for an online zoom session- we do that too! Our coaches are fabulous at what they do! We have coached numerous National Champions, but we also connect with those who don’t! Speech and Debate is a personal journey. It’s a joy and honor to come alongside students, parents, coaches, and clubs wherever you are! For more information or questions contact Heather@lastingimpact.info
Moot Court might seem intimidating, but it is genuinely one of the best activities you can do!
Not only is it the best academic exercise, but it’s also extraordinarily fun to be able to converse with your judge as part of the competition! Competitors year after year say that Moot Court is the most underrated public speaking event.
Some people are on the fence about competing in Moot Court this year. Maybe there are questions about whether the time commitment is worth it, or whether you’ll enjoy the event. Maybe you have college classes or work or sports. Or college applications!
One excellent way to learn more—about the time commitment, the material, or the event itself—is through online Moot Court camps, which are hosted right here at Lasting Impact. We’re confident you’ll love it—but there’s no commitment. You can join and decide it’s not for you. We’ve priced the camp at a low cost so that you can join just to learn more (you can come for just $50 with the code found at the end of this webinar: https://youtu.be/RBI7cgylIi8).
We help you get a fast start on Moot—giving you time with the case (multiple sessions), teaching you the basics of reading cases, answering questions, and how to write your cases.
You can find the registration below. One starts tomorrow (registration still open); the other starts August 21 & 23. Sign up HERE
Moot Court is alive! After NCFCA decided to discontinue the activity this past year, a few parents and I started the High School Moot Court Association (HSMCA) to facilitate continued Moot competition. You can find more information at our website, hsmca.org.
We started by getting a team together, and we got the best of the best. We have last year’s head of ballot admin, last year’s judge recruiter, a tournament staffer, one of the NCFCA packet writers and editors, two decorated alumni, a practicing attorney, a financial advisor, and myself on the nine-person board.
Then we filed for 501(c)(3) status, and then started doing all the small things that it takes to get a league off the ground: designing a logo; building roles and job descriptions; budgeting; planning a tournament platform; marketing; website design; designing a rulebook.
And at long last, we’re approaching the finish line of the start-up process. But getting the league off the ground is really just step one. The second step is getting students and families involved. So… why should your family be involved in Moot Court? Three reasons come to mind.
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