WHAT DOES HISTORY
REALLY TEACH US…
ABOUT THE FUTURE?
HOW HISTORY CAN HELP US SEE, AND SHAPE, OUR OWN LIVES
Buzzy Jackson holds a PhD in U.S. History from UC Berkeley and has spoken to hundreds of audiences, from book clubs and libraries to universities, literary festivals, and community organizations in the United States and abroad. She teaches writing and creativity for organizations including Lighthouse Writers Workshop and Creative Conferences. Her work has appeared in publications including The Boston Globe, Artforum, and Salon, and she writes the Substack newsletter Continuous Small Treats.
In addition to her work as an author, Buzzy collaborates with leaders, experts, and innovators as an editor, ghostwriter, and thought-leadership strategist, helping transform complex ideas into compelling books and narratives.
Photo: Rylee Broach
Most requested talks
The Quiet Choices That Shape History
What the Dutch Resistance Can Teach Us About Courage, Choice, and the People History Forgets
How do ordinary choices become part of history? Drawing on the true story behind To Die Beautiful, Buzzy Jackson explores how courage often begins with small decisions: helping, refusing, speaking up, staying silent, taking a risk for someone else. This keynote is a powerful reminder that history is shaped not only by famous people and dramatic acts, but by the everyday choices ordinary people make.
Nothing Was Always This Way
How the Impossible Becomes Common Sense
What feels obvious, natural, or inevitable today often seemed impossible not very long ago. Drawing on surprising moments from history, Buzzy Jackson explores how radical ideas become common sense—and what that process can teach us about change. This keynote challenges audiences to question inherited assumptions, recognize possibility, and use the past to imagine a different future.
The Race of the Unknown Distance
Uncertainty, Choice, and How We Move Forward
What can an obscure cycling race teach us about moving forward when we don’t know what comes next? Using the metaphor of a race with no known finish line, Buzzy Jackson explores uncertainty, choice, and how we can act with greater courage, intention, and imagination.
“Buzzy brings insight, wit, curiosity, excellent questions, self-confidence, and brilliant communication skills to every group, team or community she works with.”
J.C., City of Boulder, Colorado
“People are still talking about your presentation! Thank you again for making our event great.”
M.Z., P.E.O. International
“Everyone absolutely LOVED you & your book… We’re booking you now for your next visit. Grateful.”
D.D., American Association of University Women (AAUW)
Buzzy! What an incredible presentation. We are all so lucky to have had the opportunity to learn so much from you. Such a fascinating and powerful story. We appreciate you sharing your time and expertise with us!
R.B., Park City Book Festival