John Meixner
John Meixner
John Meixner began his career as a professional speaker leading seminars across the United States for thousands of people each week. In his free time, he founded a photography business and local tour company. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of a technology firm in the Midwest. Inspired by his love of travel and history, he ventured throughout the Mediterranean while earning a degree in archaeology. He continually writes and conducts classes on a variety of topics for adult learners.
Presentations
Athens, a city with a profound impact on both the ancient and modern world. Witness its archaeological treasures. Visit iconic sites like the Acropolis, where the Parthenon stands as a testament to classical ingenuity. Journey to the Agora, the vibrant heart of the city where philosophy, commerce, and politics intertwined. Discover the secrets held within ruins, from its Bronze Age origins to the enduring influence on Western civilization. Translate stories etched in stone, offering a profound understanding of its lasting legacy. Together, we will embark upon an odyssey of ancient Athens.
Venture to the world of ancient Rome through its most significant archaeological sites. Trace legendary beginnings on the Palatine Hill and witness the steady expansion of the Empire at the Forum. Imagine hand-to-hand combat at the Colosseum and fierce competition the Circus Maximus. Marvel at the Pantheon's architectural brilliance and wander along the ancient Appian Way, lined with solemn tombs hinting at the dawn of Christianity. Delve into underground darkness where the city hides many secrets. This course will bring the past to life through the monumental achievements of Rome.
Transform your travel photos from snapshots to stunning! In only 10 seconds, you will be able to quickly assess a scene to deploy your toolkit of composition. Harness the power of focus, perspective, line, symmetry, and more to draw viewers into the heart of your images. Analyze different compositional choices and learn how they evoke emotion. Frame subjects to capture sweeping landscapes, bustling cities, and intimate portraits. No fancy camera or complex settings are needed. Learn from practical examples to uncover the art within your journeys.
From the 1930s to the 1950s, Americans participated in something amazing: the theater of the mind. Networks across the nation hosted shows like Dragnet, Suspense, and Gunsmoke. The writers were the best of the century, and the sound engineers brought the experience to life. But it was the listener who contributed the essential element: imagination. Experience many genres including drama, science fiction, western, detective, and comedy. We’ll share our memories of yesteryear and honor the lost art form of radio’s golden age.
Discover long-lost cities, explore towering pyramids, and peer into ancient tombs. Experience an archaeological adventure designed to answer core questions. How do archaeologists know where to search? What is the proper way to excavate? How are sites dated? What information do artifacts reveal? We’ll meet charismatic people, learn the tools of the trade, and wrestle with the ethics of studying past cultures. Our travels take us to exotic places and times. Afterward, you’ll be well-equipped to travel the world and uncover every region’s fascinating history.
Discover thousands of years of Egyptian history through its archaeological wonders. Stand in awe of the pyramids and learn about the Old Kingdom pharaohs who united the land. Navigate the turbulent Middle Kingdom through sites like Karnak. Come face to face with the greatest New Kingdom personalities at their long-hidden resting places in the Valley of the Kings. Powerful women, too, ruled the land and their stories are reflected through temples, tombs, and hieroglyphs. Meet leaders and laborers, priests and warriors, archaeologists and thieves, all while exploring the gift of the Nile.
Reviews
“The best! Engaging, informative and outstanding! Cannot wait for him to do another class.”
“John has a gift for teaching. Not only is he personable, he also knows his material. He is a treasure!”
"John was an excellent instructor! His presentation skills and enthusiasm for his subject matter made the class interesting and fun."
“John is one of the best moderators I've had. He could make a seminar on watching paint dry an exciting experience.”
“John was always well prepared. His slide presentations were very professional with links all working correctly. His passion for the topic is indisputable. He was knowledgeable, inclusive, always respectful. This guy is AMAZING! I will take any class he decides to teach!”
"John was an amazingly knowledgeable and articulate lecturer and discussion leader. He is passionate about archaeology and makes it understandable and fun. He is better than many PhD professors with years of experience."
“John was well organized and extremely knowledgeable. He shared access to many resources above and beyond the extensive class material. What makes John an incredible teacher is something beyond this. He is passionate about the subject matter which makes us (his students) excited to be in his class! As a retired teacher, I can attest this passion is the secret of great teaching!”