Speaking

John Huston has spoken at sales meetings, management seminars, strategic planning sessions, school assemblies, charity events, and community gatherings. His stories from the ends of the earth weave together themes of teamwork, leadership, planning and preparation, environmental awareness, perseverance, optimism, and the pursuit of goals. John’s presentations include stunning photographs, videos, and a display of expedition equipment. Themes and content can be customized for the audience and for all age groups.
| • Leadership | • Optimism | • Pursuit of Goals |
| • Perserverance | • Taking on Challenges | • Teamwork |
| • Long Term Planning | • Power of Routines | • Working with Change |
| • Climate Change | • Safety | • Importance of Education |
| • History | • Science | • Wildlife |
Videos
![]() Highlights from a recent presentation |
![]() Video of an interview with John after returning from the North Pole |
Testimonials
Companies:
- You really struck a chord with all of us, and your presentation at our sales meeting tied in perfectly with our theme for 2010. - Automotive Manufacturing Company, Chicago, Illinois
- John Huston was outstanding! We had about one hundred leaders from the Hydraulic Excavator team on hand and he delivered a home run. His expedition mirrored our arduous journey in today’s turbulent economic business conditions. We use John’s example of optimism and persistence on a daily basis. - Caterpillar, Aurora, Illinois
- BRAVO! John Huston not only captivated our company, he left us all more inspired and optimistic to achieve our own day-to-day pursuits. His presentation has it all––humor, emotion, drama, and jaw-dropping awe––and he does it with such refreshing humility. - Energy Solutions, Oakland, California
- The entire audience was captivated. Our employees gave a standing ovation and returned to their jobs inspired to tackle their own seemingly insurmountable goals. It was the best company meeting we’ve ever had. - Victorinox Swiss Army, Monroe, Connecticut
- John’s messages were delivered with a touch of humor against the backdrop of a fabulous multimedia presentation. - Orchestration, Inc., Lisle, Illinois
Organizations:
- The evening was a great success. You taught the audience many life lessons and left them in awe. - RELATE Charity Fundraiser, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- John’s presentation is at the same time both down-to-earth, and inspirational. A thoroughly enjoyable and educational experience! - A Day with Northwestern, Northwestern University
- Our Scouts learned what “Do Your Best,” the Cub Scout motto, means after listening to John Huston. They will track the team’s progress via the online expedition journal. - Cub Scout Pack, Oak Park, Illinois
- It was the largest crowd that I have hosted in my 15 years as programming coordinator and the first time that I have seen a standing ovation. John’s program was more than a captivating narrative of adventure and courage. He reminded us of the possibilities that we are capable of achieving and the dreams that can be fulfilled. - Public Library, Glen Ellyn, Illinois
- John: Thank you for a terrific presentation. We loved having you here. - Kenilworth Union Church, Kenilworth, Illinois
- Your presentation was great!!! Very, very well received. I cannot thank you enough. - Inuit Art Society, Indianapolis, Indiana
- John Huston has the amazing manner of saying, “I’m going to ski to the North Pole” without sounding far-fetched or boastful. He has the rare ability to project both modesty and bursting enthusiasm simultaneously. - Blogger, Chicago, Illinois
- John’s presentation was riveting. He reminded us all to face our own everyday challenges with optimism and passion rather than doubt the impossible. - Alumni Committee, Northwestern University
- An amazingly well prepared revisit of polar history and a remarkable look into the mindset of a modern polar explorer. - Midwest Mountaineering, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Schools:
- John spoke to a group of over 500 sixth and seventh graders — a tough crowd. Students and teachers alike loved his presentation. A great speaker! - Sycamore Middle School, Sycamore, Illinois
- Both students (7th and 8th graders) and staff were inspired by his determination and persistence. Students learned that if you never give up on a goal or a dream, there is no limit to what you can accomplish. - Richard Edwards Elementary, Chicago, Illinois
- His easy-to-understand and engaging descriptions of climate change helped to inspire the students in our K-8 school. - Elementary School, Boston, Massachusetts
- John’s philosophy of embracing challenge resonated throughout his speech, which left the students with a sense of empowerment. - Argo Community High School, Chicago, Illinois
- John Huston kept a hundred fifth graders intrigued for a whole hour, which is even harder than skiing to the North Pole. - Williamsburg Elementary, Geneva, Illinois


