“Some people might agree that the physical aspects of a barn possess spiritual qualities similar to those of a church. Indeed, while standing in a barn one does get a sense of quiet reverence as light filters through the narrow spaces of the boards.”

Mary Keithan, author, Michigan Heritage Barns

Speaking

It can be a challenge to find a program speaker. It can also be nerve-wracking, wondering if you made the right choice. Give me a call or send an email and let’s talk about how I might help ease your mind. My programs lean to the light-hearted along the themes you will find on my website, in my books and on heritage barns. Programs are often accompanied by PowerPoint's, depending upon the topic and setting, as well as displays if appropriate. Presentations are diverse. I’ve done conference keynotes for groups of over 250, teacher in-service trainings, and have entertained farmers’ groups, senior citizens, and energetic children. Programs are sprinkled with humor and audience interaction.

Here are a few topics shared at presentations around the state for groups both large (conference keynote) and small (local farmers group or church gathering). Programs are often sprinkled with humor and time is taken for audience interaction.

  • "Barns -- Cathedrals to the Earth's Spirit"
     Images and Stories of Heritage Barns

  • "Saving Barns from Sprawl"
     How to Save a Heritage Barn

  • “Books, Barns, and Be-Attitudes”

  • "Journaling for the Health of It"
     Keeping a Journal: How and Why

  • "Sharing Your Life’s Story"
     Journaling, Writing, Publishing

  • "Barns, Boxes, and Marshmallows"
     Making the decision to save or replace a barn

  • "Holding on While Letting Go"
     Accepting the Loss of a Loved One

  • "When Seldom is Heard An Encouraging Word"
     Persisting in the Face of Opposition

  • "They said, 'You should write a book!'"
     So you want to write a book? Really?

  • A Place Called Heaven
     I found mine. Where is yours?

  • Nonprofits: Team-work or Power-play?
     Traits of successful nonprofit organizations

  • Protecting your Loved One When Additional Care is Required
     Love and Lessons Learned from Experience

Pricing varies according to travel, accommodations, and program needs. If a program is to be based on one of my books, special purchase arrangements can be made for a group. Contact the author and include information about your group, interests, and how you can be reached. 269-589-6893

Responses to recent programs by The Barn Lady:

"Jan, I waited a week before sending this e-mail, in that I wanted to make sure that after 7 days I still felt the same way about your presentation. So after 7 day I still feel the same. It was really great!, you are a very talented story teller and should do more of it. The photos were wonderful the opening power point was terrific and the closing was equally as good. The number in attendance at your session are an indication of how well respected you and your stories are. Keep up the great work.
 
Now that you know where our barn is, you and your husband are always welcome."

Jerry Damon

"Jan, your presentation at the Michigan Barn Preservation Network conference was amazing. Thanks for bringing me to tears, sharing your heart, your love for barns, and for the continued inspiration!! Cheers to preserving history!!"

Linette Crosby, St. Johns

"BRAVO BRAVO. Your program was wonderful. The images, quotes and music came together perfectly. The information was right on target. Wonderful program. We thoroughly enjoyed it."

Russ Mawby, Augusta

"I have attended other presentations at this conference, but this was by far the best!"

Edwin Roth, Lowell

"I highly recommend Jan's program. She is passionate about our barns and offers a unique, highly educational and inspiring program. It is suitable for all audiences. Those who have seen it will never look at a barn the same way again!"

CDR. T.R. Shaw Jr.,
Battle Creek