Category: Speech

Discover Your Voice: Join Our Online Speech & Debate Clubs

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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!

Online Clubs Start After Labor Day – Sign Up NOW

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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

Why Should You Attend a Summer Speech and Debate Camp?

Posted on by Heather Neumann

As a coach, I’ve seen countless students walk into a Speech and Debate Camp a little nervous, unsure of what to expect. But by the end of the camp, they’ve transformed—equipped with new skills, fresh strategies, and the confidence to tackle their next competition head-on. If you’re a student considering whether to attend a Speech and Debate Camp – online or in-person or a parent wondering if it’s worth the investment, the answer is a resounding YES! I have countless of reasons why… but here’s just two reasons why: (and remember- we have TWO awesome online debate camps coming up… check them out HERE – https://lastingimpact.info/shop/ )

Continue reading “Why Should You Attend a Summer Speech and Debate Camp?” →

Summer Prep with Lasting Impact!

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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!

  1. 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.
  2. 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!?
  3. Speech and Debate Materials – We have AMAZING products! If you haven’t been to the SHOP in a while… go there NOW!
  4. 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!
  5. 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!

FREE PRINTING OFFER!

Posted on by Heather Neumann

Heading to the NCFCA National Championship? Want to purchase and pick up printed materials and have them waiting for you? From now – May 24 until June 1, 2025, purchase one of our SPEECH Ebooks, and have them printed for FREE! Items must be picked up at Nats! Items will not be shipped! Did you know Lasting Impact! has numerous Speech Resources! The free printing offer includes…

  • Speech Games and Ice Breakers
  • The Ultimate Guide to Interpretive Speech
  • Grab and Go Speech Lesson Plans
  • Seek Him First (Speech and Debate Devotional)
  • Vol. 1 and 2 – Tips, Advice, and Encouragement for your Speech Journey
  • Guide to Limited Prep

To receive your FREE printing, simply purchase the books and write PRINT in the comments. This free printing offer does not include Debate Books, Sourcebooks, Activity Cards, or Public Speaking For Kids. Head to the SHOP now, and don’t miss this incredible offer! https://lastingimpact.info/product-category/books/

What Can You Expect From Nationals?

Posted on by Heather Neumann

You made it! Now what?! This post is not about the competition, because as you heard it before… Speech and Debate is not always about the competition! Here are a few things to be prepared for before you head to Nats…

  1. Walking! Most National Championships are on college campuses. That means walking. Guys, make sure your shoes are broken in a and comfortable. Ladies, bring an extra set if walking shoes. Put your high heels in a back pack.
  2. Down Time. Congratulations you made in in one speech! Now what!? If you have been participating in multiple speeches and debate all season, this will be a new adventure! How will you fill the time? I know students who worship, play spike ball, frisbee, hang with friends, but don’t forget to support your competing comrades or watch speeches/debate to gain insight for future years!
  3. Hydrate, don’t die-drate. This goes without saying… with all that walking (and potentially hot weather), make sure you are drinking plenty of water!
  4. Relationships. Turn off your phone! Be in the present! You might meet someone standing outside your room or walking to the next place. Find someone who is alone. Invest in the relationship waiting to happen! Make a goal to meet someone new each day.
  5. Vendors/Sponsors. This might seem like a shameless plug for Lasting Impact! But really, these people – vendors, sponsors, colleges… these are your people. They may know things you don’t. Check them out, they could be an organization that could be the key to your success!
  6. Go to worship/devos. Start the day right! This could be why you are there. There could be a message you need to hear.
  7. Learn and grow! Yes, you learn a ton from doing this activity. But, as always I guarantee, He always has more for you… if you are seeking Him in all you do! Expect the unexpected.

Congrats for making it to your National Championship! Now what?

Now is the Time to Seize the Day!

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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…

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!

Reflection on the Season by: Roman Hogancamp

Posted on by Heather Neumann

“Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.”

–Titus 2:6-8

As the season comes to a close, I want to ask you this; what have you gained? First, second, or third place awards? What was it all for? Success? The coin-size medal? A piece of paper? No, speech and debate is not about winning. Instead, competition allows you the opportunity to grow in your understanding of the world around you and to learn to effectively communicate a Christian worldview. We must understand that our debates are not for a ballot or two but are instead refining and molding us to be ambassadors for God’s glory—ambassadors to a world that desperately needs the message of Jesus Christ.

Continue reading “Reflection on the Season by: Roman Hogancamp” →

THE FINE ART OF BREAKING YOUR BRAIN AND BECOMING A CHAMPION by Cody Dedon

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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:

Continue reading “THE FINE ART OF BREAKING YOUR BRAIN AND BECOMING A CHAMPION by Cody Dedon” →

An Original Start for Your Original Interpretation by: Serenity Spada

Posted on by Heather Neumann

Twelve years ago, Seven-year-old Serenity mindlessly walked around at her first official Speech and Debate Tournament. Here, I was exposed to interp speeches that exploded my little brain. I watched with awe at the phenomenal acting skills, blocking, and characterization and quickly fell in love and couldn’t wait to begin myself. So, I wrote and performed my first interp speech, which was adorable for a six-year-old. But then something extremely unfortunate happened—I grew up, and twelve-year-old Serenity could no longer hide behind her cuteness. I was abruptly thrown into a new type of competition that required a much higher level of acting, writing, and blocking. After eleven years of writing and competing in interp speeches, I have learned many lessons that have improved my skills over the years. I wanted to share some of the first steps you would need to take as you start writing your own Original Interpretation…

Continue reading “An Original Start for Your Original Interpretation by: Serenity Spada” →

Extemporaneous Tips and Tricks by: Roman Hogancamp

Posted on by Heather Neumann

Extemporaneous is so gratifying—and not just because of the competition. There are plenty of outlets that provide that opportunity. What I really love about Extemp is the opportunity to expand my knowledge of the world, discuss it with family and friends, and then share that information and analysis with others. That’s exactly what I hope to do with you today. If we haven’t met, my name is Roman Hogancamp, and I honored to be the 2024 NCFCA Extemporaneous National Champion. As such, I would like to provide three tips for competing in Extemporaneous—whether in STOA, NCFCA, or just around the dinner table. Continue reading or SIGN UP for EXTEMP CLUB that starts NEXT WEEK!

Continue reading “Extemporaneous Tips and Tricks by: Roman Hogancamp” →

Speech and Debate… Where to begin? With Lasting Impact!

Posted on by Heather Neumann

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!