What makes one speaker unforgettable while another is easily forgotten? What turns a simple argument into a persuasive force that moves judges, stirs emotions, and changes minds? What makes you want to listen, tune out the rest of the world? If you have ever heard my friend, owner/founder of IEW, Andrew Pudewa… there is a word that comes to mind. He’s a fabulous speaker!
The answer is one powerful word: compelling. In speech and debate, some speakers are clear. Others are confident. A few are even memorable. But the ones who win rounds, move audiences, and leave a lasting impact? Those speakers are compelling.
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
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.
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
Are you ready to begin your 2025-2026 speech and debate season? We are too! In fact, we have one camp under our belt and resources busting at the seams! Here is just a short run down of how you can use Lasting Impact! as the number one resource in Speech and Debate this summer and beyond!
Coaching – Have you seen our line up of qualified coaches? Do you want to get a jump start on your season? Schedule a Mental Prep Session. Coaching isn’t just for students either! Did you know we help create syllabus’ for clubs, meet with parents, and coach specific tracks for clubs? Check out COACHING here.
Camps – Like I said we are one camp down, and about a dozen more to go! Lasting Impact! Coaches are traveling nation-wide again to help inspire students (and parents) on the power of communication! Talk to Heather (heather@lastingimpact.info) on more information on hiring a Lasting Impact! Coach. We even offer Online Camps this summer (and they will be recorded)! Moot, TP, LD, and Jump Start Speech… what more could you ask for!?
Speech and Debate Materials – We have AMAZING products! If you haven’t been to the SHOP in a while… go there NOW!
Sourcebooks – Our Debate Guidebooks and Sourcebooks are the BEST! We spend hundreds of hours putting together a product you will want to dig into! And did you know, we created a Summer Prep TP Source just for our NCFCA friends! Great for easy early research or camp!
Don’t forget to sign up for Fall 2025 Clubs/Classes! More will be added this summer… but be sure to check out some of our standards- Online LD, Speech 101, Speech 102, Interpretation Club, Online Apol, Extemporaneous Roundtable and more!
Lasting Impact! is gearing up for the best summer and season ever! We hope you join us!
Hello, NCFCA Debaters, Coaches, and Clubs! Lasting Impact! is eager to announce the release of TWO cases for the 2025 debate summer camp season. We are excited for the upcoming NCFCA season, which will focus on Congressional reforms, and our coaches have been hard at work researching and crafting the quality Lasting Impact! cases you have come to know and love (these may just be some of our best yet)!
In the past, we have released a source book near the beginning of August. This year will be no exception, but in addition to this traditional release, we also want to help support your summer research and camps by releasing two high-quality cases early. We will be selling one case for $20 or both early releases for $30 per team. The cases include a 1AC, an AFF backup, and a NEG brief. The two cases are: “Pass the TRUST Act,” which deals with insider trading, and “Pass Congressional Term Limits,” which advocates for term limits on U.S. Representatives and Senators. We will be using these sample cases in our own Summer Debate Camps!! Speaking of… Looking to dive into a Summer Speech or Debate Camp? Sign up NOW with some of the best speech and debate coaching and materials! Our Online Camps will be recorded! If you are still looking to host a camp… check with Heather to see if a coach can come to you Heather@lastingimpact.info, OR we would encourage you to stop by the Lasting Impact booth at the NCFCA National Championship in Minnesota! We will be on campus and look forward to meeting you! If you would like to see a preview of the NCFCA TP Camp Cases, or our other amazing products or materials – come to our booth (and meet our llama)!! We will have copies of the cases and books available for preview. And don’t forget the SALE going on now… (see previous post for details). As always, we love coming alongside your speech and debate journey!
Yes, I just got off the whirlwind of directing Newsies… but this lesson of “seizing the day” can be implemented NOW, before heading to your Speech and Debate National Championships! I see it all the time… most students are just grateful to get to the pinnacle level- they sit back relax and go into summer mode. Don’t stop now! Seize the moment! I highly recommend 3 things before heading to Nats…
Perspective – Get another perspective on your speech or case. This can be anyone! You don’t need to hire a coach (if you don’t want to). But think and talk about your speech with anyone who will listen AND get you thinking! You have choices… looking at something from a different angle might be just what you need.
Read those ballots… ALL OF THEM! You could even call anyone you might have a question about. Yes… you can do that! If you know a judge (someone who judged you), you can reach out to them! There are no rules about that. Understand their ranking or decisions could impact this last tournament.
Pray. Yep, sounds typical… but I believe in it. Does your speech need tweaking? What does God want from you at Nationals? Maybe you are there for competition, but maybe not. Be open to what He wants!
Your friends are Lasting Impact! are lifting you up during these final steps in the season. And hey- if you are ready to talk next year… that’s ok too! Are you ready for your National Championship? Do you need help? The coaches as Lasting Impact! are standing by! Schedule a coaching call today!
The most creative person to ever scam me was a gnarly looking old man I bumped into on 16th street in Baton Rouge. I was 19 at the time, freshly homeschooled, deeply naive, and very, very easy to separate from my money. Over the next half hour, this old man explained to me the sad situation that he was supposedly in.
“I work for that art shop.” He said, pointing to a nearby building. “This afternoon I was working from home. I was on the BRINK of finishing a big charcoal portrait for an elderly lady who’s dying of cancer, but then I ran out of charcoal! Can you believe that?” I could believe that! I DID believe that! He went on. “This poor, dying lady has a daughter, and this daughter’s birthday is tomorrow! The dying lady wants to give my portrait to her daughter as a birthday present, but I can’t finish it in time unless you help me buy some more charcoal! Can you spare a few bucks?” I eyed him somewhat suspiciously. “Why can’t you get the supplies from the shop you work at?” I said pointing to the building. The man’s face fell as he said “I tried. But my car broke down and by the time I made it to the shop on foot, the owner had locked up and left town on vacation. If you don’t help me, this lady may die before I can finish this portrait.” And with that, he held out his convincingly soot stained hand and I opened my wallet. We went back and forth on just how much money charcoal cost, and by the end of our haggling, we settled on a number we were all happy with: a cool, calm 90 dollars.
The next week, I happened to see the owner of the art shop. I asked him about the old man who worked at the shop. His reply? “We’ve never had an old man working at this shop.” I didn’t mention the particulars of WHY I was asking about the old man.
What did I learn from this experience? Well… I learned to NOT give copious amounts of money to anyone and everyone who asks. But perhaps more importantly, I learned that creativity is the key to reaching your goals as a communicator. I’ve been shaken down for 5 or 10 bucks by a common street hustler before, but it took a story of REAL CREATIVITY to pry 90 whole dollars from my hand! NOW THAT’S RESULTS! If you want results as a public speaker, you too will need to get very creative; although, I do advise that you skip the whole lying about your entire backstory technique. Stick to the facts! But GET CREATIVE! Here’s how:
Ahh! The new speech and debate season is upon us! Are you feeling prepared? Perhaps a little overwhelmed!? Don’t worry… The Lasting Impact! Team is ready to come alongside students, parents, coaches, and clubs! Allow me to introduce ourselves…. Lasting Impact! has been around for a while now! We have literally coached thousands of students nationwide and internationally. We have had the opportunity to coach numerous (too many to count) National Champions. Throughout the year we travel the country from coast to coast teaching the art of communication through Speech and Debate. During the school year, you will often find our coaches on Zoom teaching classes and clubs, or coaching one on one. We offer a variety of products and services to help you navigate the world of speech and debate! Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our BLOG to be sure you get the latest information, releases, sales, etc. Look what we have just for YOU… the SHOP is where you can find all the amazing offerings…
Clubs/Classes – Our fall 2024 club/classes are gearing up, ready to go! We are offering from everything to Apologetics to Debate to Speech 101 and 102, Extemporaneous to Interp! All clubs/classes are on Zoom and recorded. Our clubs are not only for students! Many coaches have sat in to learn and gain a better understanding of what our experienced coaches have to offer! We are still taking registrations- REGISTER NOW!
Speech and Debate Resources – Lasting Impact! has created a number of “must have” resources! Whether it’s The Ultimate Guide to Interpretive Speech, The Limited Prep Guide, Speech Games, Speech Grab and Go, or our Debate Sourcebooks… our Resources will make your life a whole lot easier! All books are Ebooks, and just one click away! https://lastingimpact.info/shop/
Coaching – Wait until you see the line up of our 2024-25 Coaches! These are truly the best of the best! All of our coaches are actively involved in the speech and debate community. They are club leaders, debate coaches, preachers, tournament coordinators, judges, etc. Book a session with one today, and you won’t be disappointed! https://lastingimpact.info/coach-information/
Blog – Did you know that Lasting Impact! has over 500 articles about speech and debate!? We have a lot of say. We are here for YOU to help you dig deeper and understand the ins and outs of debate resolutions and speech categories. Be sure you SUBSCRIBE to the blog to read what our coaches think or are discovering! https://lastingimpact.info/tag/free/
Membership – Yes, Lasting Impact! is a membership site. But you don’t have to be a member to read the free blog. Members receive discounts on coaching and clubs, access to video gallery, free workshop recordings, etc. Membership is just $35 for the year! https://lastingimpact.info/register/annual-membership-subscription/
We welcome you to be a part of the Lasting Impact! Family! We look forward to coming alongside you in your speech and/or debate journey!
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