With its season running from September 2023 to May 2024, on six different evenings, the Distinguished Speaker Series draws patrons for inspiring stories and presentations from some of the world’s most influential, timely, and captivating speakers.

“Our mission is to offer audiences across the South Bay the chance to learn from six amazing people changing the world. We give neighbors from differing backgrounds and political persuasions the opportunity to come together,” said co-owner Kathy Winterhalder in a statement.

The difference between The Distinguished Speaker Series and other forms of entertainment is the return on investment, said Winterhalder. "Billionaires and CEO’s understand the value of experiencing thought leaders live; they get exclusive invitations and pay tens of thousands of dollars traveling the world to attend events. We present many of the same speakers as these forums. However, the big distinction is - for the price of a good steak dinner - we bring the same experience to our subscribers at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center." she added. 

The series kicks off on September 18, 2023 with Academy Award-winner, humanitarian and household name, Goldie Hawn. Known worldwide as one of the screen's most beloved actresses, her true passion is the Mind Up Curriculum, created by the Hawn Foundation, a public charity created after 9/11, whose mission is to help children manage stress and reach their highest potential. Goldie will join the series for a night of fun, laughter, stories, and sharing her passion for how to truly thrive.

Moogega Cooper will take the stage on October 17, 2023. A real-life “Guardian of the Galaxy,” Cooper helped make history when the Mars Perseverance Rover successfully landed on the Red Planet. Part of the famed Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) team, she holds the awesome responsibility of keeping the Red Planet safe from Earth’s contaminants. Her presentation will feature breathtaking images taken from space and she will share the leadership lessons learned from her inspirational journey to the top of her field.

Liz Cheney, former congresswoman and Profile in Courage recipient, will join the series on January 29, 2024, to discuss the political divide in American politics. Cheney’s actions during her last term in Congress laid bare her commitment to country and democracy over politics—and they pose new questions about the future of the American two-party system. Hear Cheney tell the stories of how she arrived at her personal convictions, her remarkable career in Congress, and the road that lies ahead. 

On February 22, 2024, neuroscientist and #1 international best-selling author Lisa Genova will wield her ability to tell a story and her knowledge of the human brain to discuss with passion and accuracy the journeys of those affected by brain diseases and conditions, and the science behind how we remember and why we forget. 

Former National Security Advisor and Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster (USA Ret.) will offer rare and timely insights on the most pressing issues facing the United States and the ever-evolving geopolitical climate, including the war in Ukraine, technology and global security, U.S. foreign policy, misinformation and the global marketplace on April 2, 2024.

The series will conclude with Pulitzer Prize-winning foreign affairs columnist Thomas Friedman on May 8, 2024. As one of America’s most visionary thinkers, Friedman will analyze and report directly on the big trends in economics, technology, and geopolitics.

Audience members have the opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with each speaker during a moderated question and answer session at the conclusion of all events.

The Distinguished Speaker Series is held at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., in Redondo Beach.

The Distinguished Speaker Series of Southern California was established in 1995 in response to Southern California’s need for an enlightening entertainment alternative. Other locations include Long Beach, Thousand Oaks, and Pasadena.

“We’re so inspired by the game-changers we’ve brought to Redondo Beach,” said Winterhalder. “It’s gratifying to realize we’ve presented more than 100 luminaries who have transformed our world.” Through the series the community has come to know leaders such as Joe Biden, Margaret Thatcher, Bill Clinton, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Tony Blair. They’ve laughed with Betty White, Ron Howard, and Steve Martin. And they’ve been moved by such talents as Vin Scully, Yo-Yo Ma, Robert Redford, and Maya Angelou to name a few."

The South Bay Series sponsors include Chevron, Loyola Marymount University, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, EP Wealth Advisors and Mercedes Benz of the South Bay.

The series is open to the public in subscription packages only. Series tickets start at $590 for all six evenings. Single tickets are not available. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.speakersla.com.