Our Story

Who We Are

The Distinguished Speaker Series of Southern California is presented by Swan Productions, LLC a for-profit, all female, family-owned organization based in Manhattan Beach, CA. The owners Kathy Swan Winterhalder and Sue Swan were delighted to introduce Kathy’s twin daughters Brooke and Lauren Winterhalder to the family business in 2022.

Events

The Distinguished Speaker Series of Southern California, with its season running from September to May, continues a tradition of excellence by offering audiences in Long Beach, Pasadena, Redondo Beach, and Thousand Oaks the opportunity to experience and learn from remarkable individuals who have changed the world and shaped our lives. Subscribers will have the opportunity to enjoy candid and relaxed evenings with world leaders, Pulitzer Prize winners, best-selling authors, explorers and celebrated personalities.

Now in its twenty-seventh season, the series continues by offering you the opportunity to share in an incredible event that you will remember for a lifetime. In Pasadena, Thousand Oaks, Redondo Beach and Long Beach, the evenings begin at 8:00pm.

Community Impact

The Distinguished Speaker Series began in 1996 to create something unique in Southern California that would educate, enlighten, and entertain.  These presentations are with the most fascinating, prestigious, forward-thinking experts and celebrities – tackling some of the most pressing and provocative issues of our time. Our presentations bring neighbors together – stereotypes are challenged and attitudes changed; where shared experiences can ignite positive actions; where arts, culture, education and entertainment collide; where our communities are strengthened and transformed through real, important conversation.