What about it?
Navigator’s Network is a Toastmasters-style learning circle where service members, spouses, students, and professionals practice clear communication and servant leadership—in short, focused sessions. It’s more than a lunch-and-learn: members deliver short talks, try impromptu prompts, rotate roles, and exchange kind, actionable feedback. Over time, small weekly reps add up to confident briefings, interviews, pitches, and presentations.
Navigator’s Network
Practice speaking. Grow leadership. Build cultural intelligence—together.
What is the Navigator’s Network?
Navigator’s Network is a Toastmasters-style learning circle hosted by our community to help service members, spouses, students, and professionals become clearer, more confident communicators and servant leaders. It’s more than a lunch & learn: we combine short talks, impromptu prompts, constructive evaluation, and rotating leadership roles—so everyone improves, fast.
Who it’s for
Active duty, veterans, spouses, civilian teammates, students—anyone who wants a safe, structured space to practice public speaking, interviewing, briefing, pitching, and facilitation.
Why it works
Frequent reps + supportive feedback + micro-leadership = rapid skill growth. Meetings are short, purposeful, and track progress week-to-week.
When we meet
Twice per month (alternating weeks). Typical time: 12:00–1:00. Location placeholder: Bldg C-9, 9475 Bacon Ave, Norfolk, VA. Contact/RSVP: navycareerwise@gmail.com.
How it works (4 simple steps)
- Join & Orient — Introductions, norms, and goals. New members pick a short-term speaking goal.
- Prepare & Practice — Deliver a Prepared Speech (5–7 min) or join Table Topics (2–3 min).
- Get Feedback — Receive concise evaluations (1–2 min) and a “Compass” note (what to keep/adjust).
- Track & Advance — Log your reps, rotate a role next time, and level up to the next challenge.
Tip: Small, frequent reps beat rare, long sessions. Aim for one short contribution every meeting.
Sample 60-minute agenda
We keep the clock tight to respect everyone’s time and ensure lots of people get reps.
Rotating roles
Guides the meeting, keeps flow and energy.
Tracks time signals; keeps segments crisp.
Gives balanced, actionable feedback (1–2 min).
Runs Table Topics with clear prompts.
Listens for filler words; celebrates strong phrasing.
Captures wins, quotes, next roles.
Room setup, greets newcomers, logistics.
Officer positions (if used) rotate every 6–12 months; meeting roles rotate every session.
Trivia & FAQs
- Q: How long is a Table Topic?
A: Typically 2–3 minutes with a quick closing line. - Q: I’m new—can I just observe?
A: Yes. You can start as a Timer or Topics volunteer when ready. - Q: What if I’m nervous?
A: Everyone is at first. Short reps + kind feedback = confidence. - Q: Do I need to prepare slides?
A: Not required. Clear stories and structure matter most. - Fun fact: The “compass” idea reminds us to adjust course a few degrees each week—progress, not perfection.
Ready to navigate your next talk?
Bring a 60-second intro or jump into Table Topics. We’ll cheer you on and help you improve.
RSVP / QuestionsLog. Track. Level Up. — Weekly & Monthly progress with secure cloud sync.
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Support: tony@mvoss.net
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Navigator’s Network
Practice speaking. Grow leadership. Build cultural intelligence—together.
What is the Navigator’s Network?
Navigator’s Network is a Toastmasters-style learning circle where service members, spouses, students, and professionals practice clear communication and servant leadership in short, focused sessions. It’s more than a lunch-and-learn: members deliver short talks, try impromptu prompts, rotate roles, and exchange kind, actionable feedback. Weekly reps add up to confident briefings, interviews, pitches, and presentations.
Who it’s for
Active duty, veterans, spouses, civilian teammates, and students—anyone who wants a safe, structured space to practice public speaking, interviewing, briefing, pitching, and facilitation.
Why it works
Frequent reps + supportive feedback + micro-leadership = rapid skill growth. Meetings are short, purposeful, and track progress week-to-week.
How we meet
Typically twice per month, fast-paced 60 minutes. Hybrid or in-person depending on schedule and room availability.
What you’ll gain
- Speaking confidence: structured reps in prepared and impromptu speaking
- Leadership practice: timekeeping, evaluating, facilitating, hosting
- Career readiness: tighter storytelling for interviews, networking, and project updates
- Cultural Intelligence (CQ): practical habits for communicating across cultures and roles
How it works (4 steps)
- Join & Orient — Meet the group, set a simple goal for the month.
- Prepare & Practice — Give a 5–7 min prepared talk or join 2–3 min Table Topics.
- Get Feedback — Brief evaluations with what worked, what to adjust, and one “Compass” tip.
- Track & Advance — Log your reps, rotate a role, earn badges, repeat.
Small, frequent reps beat rare, long sessions. Aim for one short contribution every meeting.
Sample 60-minute agenda
Rotating roles
Guides the meeting, keeps flow and energy.
Keeps segments crisp with time signals.
Gives balanced, actionable feedback (1–2 min).
Runs Table Topics with clear prompts.
Notes fillers and celebrates strong phrasing.
Captures wins, quotes, and next roles.
Room setup, greets newcomers, logistics.
Officer positions (if used) rotate every 6–12 months; meeting roles rotate every session.
When & where
We typically meet twice per month, often Thursdays, 12:00–1:00. Confirm current schedule by email.
Sample location: Bldg C-9, 9475 Bacon Ave, Norfolk, VA 23511
Questions/RSVP: navycareerwise@gmail.com
Not affiliated with Toastmasters International. We adopt proven speaking & leadership practices tailored to our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience?
No. Many members are beginners. You can start by observing, timing, or a 60-second intro.
Is this only for military?
No. We welcome spouses, civilian teammates, students, and community partners.
How long are meetings?
About 60 minutes. We start and end on time to respect schedules.
What’s the time commitment?
Most members attend two sessions per month and take a rotating role every few weeks.
What should my first talk be?
An Ice Breaker (who you are, what you value, where you’re headed) at 4–5 minutes is perfect.
How does feedback work?
Brief, balanced evaluations: what worked, what to adjust, and a simple “Compass” tip for next time.
What are Table Topics?
Short, impromptu prompts (2–3 minutes) to build thinking-on-your-feet confidence.
Are slides required?
No. Clear structure and delivery matter more. If you use slides, keep them simple.
What roles can I try?
Timer, Evaluator, Topics Master, Grammarian/Ah-Counter, Scribe, Sergeant-at-Arms, or Navigator (Host).
How do I track my progress?
We offer a simple speech/role tracker to log reps, view monthly totals, and see growth trends.
Is there a cost to join?
No cost to visit. If dues are ever needed for materials or events, we’ll announce clearly.
Can I bring a guest?
Yes—please do. Guests can observe or jump into Table Topics.
What’s the culture like?
Encouraging, respectful, and focused on practice over perfection. Feedback is kind and specific.
What if public speaking makes me nervous?
Great—this is for you. Start with a short role or a 60-second intro; we’ll support you.
How is Cultural Intelligence (CQ) used?
We practice simple CQ habits: check assumptions, adapt tone/examples, and invite diverse perspectives.
Is this the same as Toastmasters?
No. We’re Toastmasters-inspired but independent. We keep sessions lean and tailored to our community.
Can I get leadership credit?
Yes—rotating roles build facilitation, evaluation, and meeting-management skills for resumes or evals.
Do you record sessions?
Sometimes for learning highlights (with consent). Psychological safety first—opt out anytime.
What’s the dress code?
Come as you are. If you’re practicing a formal brief/interview, dress to match your goal.
Are meetings hybrid or in-person?
We can run in-person, hybrid, or virtual depending on the week/room. Check the current invite.
How do I get better quickly?
Keep reps short and frequent, request one focus area per week, and rotate roles to widen skills.
Can I propose a theme or workshop?
Yes. We love theme days (interview drills, brief-to-boss, storytelling, panel practice). Suggest one!
How are topics chosen?
Prepared talks are member-selected; Table Topics are set by the Topics Master and tuned to the audience.
What if I go over time?
We’ll gently signal and stop to protect the agenda. Efficient timing helps more people practice.
Is there homework?
Optional. We may share a one-page outline template or a short video to try a new technique next time.
Can I use a talk from school or work?
Absolutely. Bring a real assignment, briefing, or pitch and refine it with the group.
I’m not a native English speaker—okay?
Yes. We value global voices. Pace, clarity, and structure beat perfect grammar.
How do I volunteer for a role?
Roles are posted at the end of each meeting. Raise your hand or email to claim one for next time.
What’s expected of evaluators?
Be specific and kind. Offer 1–2 strengths, 1 focused suggestion, and a simple challenge for next time.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email navycareerwise@gmail.com for schedules, roles, or speaking slots.
Questions or to RSVP: navycareerwise@gmail.com