About the Founder

Meet James Jeffley

James Jeffley is an award-winning international speaker, corporate trainer, and two-time finalist in the Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking. With over 25 years of experience on stages around the world, James has taught thousands of professionals how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and heart.

As a coach, minister, and musician, James knows the power of a well-crafted message—and what it feels like to wrestle with speech drafts for hours, trying to find the right words that will truly connect. That’s why he created Speech Forge AI: to empower speakers to craft impactful, engaging speeches in a fraction of the time, without sacrificing authenticity or quality.

James believes that great speaking isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether you’re speaking in the boardroom, at a conference, or giving a toast at a wedding, your message matters—and with the right tools and frameworks, you can deliver it confidently and powerfully.

When James isn’t teaching or speaking, you can find him enjoying live music, mentoring emerging leaders, or spending time with family and friends.

Notable Awards

"I joined Toastmasters in October, 2013. It was a very difficult time in my life and I needed a "safe harbor" - a place where I could feel welcomed and possibly be of service. I realized very quickly that I had found a "home." After a few well-received speeches, several members asked me if I was going to compete in the contests.

"Contests, what contests?," I said. I hadn't competed in a speech contest since high school. After winning my club contest in Table Topics (impromptu speaking) and International Speech (5-7 minute, original speech) I saw a chance to share a message and reach a wider audience. I continued winning and found myself moving on from District to the International semi-final round in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! I won that round and then competed in the Finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking - all in my first year in Toastmasters! I grew as a speaker and learned so much that I did it all again the next year, and the year after that!

Sure, travel, winning awards and accolades are fine... but they're not why I competed. At each level, I found myself in front of larger audiences - upwards of 3,000 in the Finals. This was my opportunity to "plant seeds," messages in the minds of a truly international audience. My hope was they would take my words back to their part of the world and share with others. Message / Mission / Ministry, all in one!

I've spent the last 25 years (or so) helping professionals grow in their leadership and management skills. No matter the topic, the ability to deliver a clear, compelling message is always a cornerstone. I've combined some of my best teaching in these resources. I hope you find them useful in crafting your message and delivering with impact."

My Toastmasters Journey

"Being at the precipice of the most important role in my career, I sought out James because of his own great speaking abilities. He coached me through some misperceptions I had about myself, and helped build my confidence which allowed me to deliver the most impactful presentation of my life. I am now enjoying that new role thanks in large part to James' valuable coaching. I would highly recommend James Jeffley!"

~Melody Phipps, Managing Director, Deloitte LLP (retired)

"I hired James for consultation composing a keynote address at the "Young Women and Money Conference”. His expertise gave my presentation structure, fluency and flow. He went beyond expectation with his time, knowledge and wisdom. With his guidance, my audience was transformed with a message of hope that moved them into action with their finances. He made a huge difference in my presentation.

If you need support from a master communicator, you would be wise to contact James."

- Veronica Dangerfield, Senior Financial Health Educator, Patelco Credit Union"