Talk Topics
Mark Houser challenges people to believe, persevere, and strive for success through motivational stories of the men and women behind America's beautiful landmark skyscrapers.
Technology Transformation
Strong corporate demand for recordkeeping, clerks, and secretaries prompted Lyman Smith to radically shift production at his shotgun factory and roll out a new invention — typewriters. Skyscrapers like his altered city skylines almost as dramatically as Smith-Corona changed the business world.
Disruption & Change
When Mellie Esperson's husband died suddenly, she took control of their Houston oil and shipping businesses and built the tallest skyscraper in Texas. Hear the tales of many more business leaders like Esperson who forged ahead and found new opportunities even in times of wrenching change.
Sales & Marketing
A potato farmer and failed store clerk, Frank Woolworth built a retail empire and the world's tallest skyscraper through his mastery of product, price, place, and promotion — marketing principles that to this day define the art of selling. See more skyscrapers of sales successes like Woolworth.
Risks vs. Rewards
An immigrant who opened a small clock shop in Los Angeles, Adolph Sieroty sold on credit when most other merchants demanded payment up front. His Deco department store with its prominent clock testifies how that gamble paid off. Find out about other entrepreneurs who bet big and won.
Leading by Example
The first woman in California licensed as an architect, Julia Morgan quietly let her work do the talking — from her cutting-edge earthquake proofing in San Francisco to the design brilliance that led to major West Coast commissions. Meet several soft-spoken superstars like Morgan.
Leaving a Legacy
Chicago Tribune publisher Robert McCormick held an international contest to design the ideal skyscraper for his "World's Greatest Newspaper." An inscription in the lobby floor proclaims his intent: "When we build, let us think that we build forever." See more towers designed to inspire the public.
All topics are available as keynote talks or half-day seminars. Presentations can include historic archival images, vintage illustrations, and the unique drone-assisted skyscraper art photography of the Highrises Collection.
Customize any talk to add a special focus on your industry, your region, or your city.