Hi Left Coaster,
I regulary distribute powerpoint presentations on CD, they run fine direct from the CD complete with builds etc.
How you get the data on to the CD varies depending on the CD burning software you are using. All we do once the presentaion is finished is shut down the is make a data cd, containing just the .ppt file that we need. An alternative is to use the powerpoint "pack and go" tool and burn the file that creates to the CD, this means the end user does not need powerpoint.
I think to help you solve this one you'll need to tell us what CD burning software you are using and the steps you are going through other wise you might get a bunch of suggestions that are not relevant to your set up.
Best regards
Memetic.