Houston Kraft

Author of Deep Kindness, CoFounder of CharacterStrong

Houston Kraft

Author of Deep Kindness, CoFounder of CharacterStrong

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Biography

Houston has spoken at over 600 events internationally. In 2016, he co-founded CharacterStrong which currently serves 10,000 schools across 50 states and 36 countries helping to support the teaching of kindness in education.

In 2019, his face was featured on Lays BBQ chip bags as someone who helps "spread smiles.” In 2020, his first book, Deep Kindness, was published by Simon & Schuster. He has been featured on Good Morning America, CNN, Hallmark, Katie Couric, and more as an expert on developing a more empathetic, kind world.

Speaker Videos

Speaker and Author of of Deep Kindness

Speech Topics

What Gets in the Way of Kindness?

We all know Kindness is a great thing. Perhaps the better question is, “What gets in the way?” A self-reflective and interactive keynote that focuses on closing the gap between beliefs and actions.

To Be Lists > To Do Lists

Convenience is the enemy of compassion. In this personal and heartfelt keynote, Houston talks about his mom’s battle with cancer, our cultural misunderstanding of Kindness, and how to refocus (in a very practical way) our daily pursuit of what’s most important.

Supporting the Mental Health & Well-Being of Students & Adults

With seemingly endless obstacles over the past 3 years, those in the field of education face increased stress and pressure. Our students are navigating increased mental health challenges. In this resource-packed follow up session to Houston's keynote, he will share simple, but impactful ways to provide meaningful supports for student AND adult well-being to decrease anxiety and increase hope.

Testimonials

“As the keynote speaker for our conference, Houston Kraft brought an engaging and interactive session that had our participants involved with him and with each other. The emotion in the room was raw and real—and not just because the group was comprised of school counselors! Houston had a great balance of humor, intensity, excitement, compassion, and transparency that kept everyone immersed in the experience from beginning to end. I can’t recommend him enough for your event!”

- President of Texas School Counselors Association

“I mean this in all sincerity - Houston is the best Character Education presenter I’ve ever seen or heard. Believe me, I’ve heard thousands of them since 1992. In addition, his materials are terrific. He is the future of Character Education. I can’t put into words how much admiration I have for him, his character, and his work.”

- Dr. Hal Urban, Author, Teacher, Speaker

“Houston Kraft was exactly what our conference needed to get people feeling comfortable, connected, and excited to dig into meaningful work! He is dynamic in front of any size group - having worked with us during a general session, a luncheon keynote, and a standing-room only workshop that received nothing but five star reviews. A gifted storyteller that also provides practical resources and tools that our delegates could put to use immediately - Houston is a must-have for your event!”

- Vice President of Character.org