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Join Len Ferman, The Sports Time Traveler™, for a fascinating look at professional sports during World War II. Many famous athletes were drafted, including baseball legend Hank Greenberg, who served four years and saw combat. Others, with medical deferments, continued to compete—encouraged by President Roosevelt to help lift national morale. This engaging presentation tells the powerful stories of these athletes as they served and played during the pivotal 1945 season. Through vivid storytelling and historical insight, Len reveals how sports became a source of hope and resilience during one of America’s darkest times.

About Len Ferman - Click Here

Len Ferman: Innovator, Educator, and Sports Time Traveler

Len Ferman is a multi-faceted professional with a distinguished career in innovation, education, and sports history. While he is known for his groundbreaking work in the field of business innovation, Ferman's passion for sports, particularly the history of athletics, has also significantly influenced his career and teaching endeavors. As the founder of Ferman Innovation, he helps organizations navigate customer needs and foster creativity through cutting-edge innovation practices. But it's his unique perspective as The Sports Time Traveler™ that truly sets him apart.

The Sports Time Traveler™

As The Sports Time Traveler™, Len Ferman brings the magic of past sports eras to life through immersive storytelling and historical analysis. His exploration of sports history takes audiences on virtual journeys back in time to witness iconic moments and influential athletes. Ferman’s depth of knowledge and captivating presentations bridge the gap between sports history and contemporary relevance, making his talks both entertaining and educational.

Professional Background

Beyond his role as The Sports Time Traveler™, Len Ferman is a respected leader in the field of business creativity and innovation. With over 35 years of experience, he has held leadership positions at major organizations such as Bank of America, AT&T, and Barnett Bank, where he was instrumental in driving innovation in customer experience. Len founded Ferman Innovation in 2013, offering consulting services focused on generating breakthrough ideas and improving customer experience.

Len is also an educator, serving as an adjunct professor at the University of North Florida, where he developed courses on business creativity and innovation. He has received numerous accolades for his teaching, including the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award in 2022. Additionally, Len is a faculty member of the American Management Association and a global educator for Duke Corporate Education.

Published Works

In 2019, Len authored Business Creativity and Innovation: Perspectives and Best Practices, a textbook that provides a comprehensive foundation in innovation principles, exploring how to generate, evaluate, and design ideas to solve business challenges. This work is widely used in academic settings for courses in business innovation, product development, and strategic management.

Len also shares his love of sports history through his book The 1973 Mets: You’ve Got to Believe, which takes readers on a journey through the iconic Mets season that ended with their unexpected appearance in the World Series.

Legacy of Innovation and Education

Len’s contributions to both the fields of business and sports history continue to resonate with audiences around the world. His dynamic presentations, whether on the topics of business innovation or the golden eras of sports, make him a sought-after speaker at major conferences. Whether it's helping companies innovate or transporting audiences back in time to witness sports history, Len Ferman’s work continues to inspire and educate.

Discover the history, culture and craft of Costa Rica plus a virtual tour of the rainforests to learn about the bizarre and beautiful creatures that inhabit the most diverse ecosystem on earth.

"America’s Sweetheart," an icon, and a trailblazer both as a pilot and as a promoter of safe travel for everyone.  Amelia set the example by fearlessly setting world records and an example for all women to follow. The details of what happened to her before, during and after that fateful round-the-world flight will be revealed in living color. The once "mystery of history" will be put to rest once and for all. The proven solution will be revealed at last.

 

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this course explores a powerful and timely theme: even the Founding Fathers feared the new Republic might not last. Drawing from David Rasmussen’s compelling study The Fear of a Setting Sun, we will examine how early leaders who were far from being fully confident had deep doubts about whether the American experiment in democracy could endure.

The title references a remark by Benjamin Franklin at the Constitutional Convention, as he wondered whether the sun carved on the back of George Washington’s chair was rising or setting on the Republic. Today, as only 34% of Americans express satisfaction with how democracy is working (Gallup, December 2024), Franklin’s uncertainty feels more relevant than ever.

This course will consider Rasmussen’s insights in the context of current challenges: political polarization, national identity, and democratic decline.... and ask the urgent question: Can democracy imposed from the top down survive unless "We the People" choose to uphold it?

Part 1: A Revolutionary is Born (1743- 1773) explores the early life of Thomas Jefferson through pre-recorded content from The History Channel. Follow Jefferson’s journey from his birth into Virginia’s elite society to the development of the ideals that would later define his revolutionary leadership. This engaging, documentary-style presentation provides insight into the intellectual and personal influences that shaped one of America's most pivotal figures. Each part of this three-part series can be registered for individually.

Note: This is a recorded video (no live presenter).

Of all Roosevelt's achievements, he was proudest of his work in conservation of natural resources and extending federal protection to land and wildlife. We will look at where he developed this love of nature and how it impacted his leadership. We will also quickly look at some of the areas set aside during his administration that will later become part of the National Park System.

Master storyteller Timothy Totten takes you on a whirlwind tour of the life and work of America's most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. With insightful architectural analysis, and hundreds of photos, Totten weaves a tale of love, adultery, murder and the Emperor of Japan to illustrate the genius and personal foibles of "The Greatest American Architect."

Inevitably, when civilizations clash, one is often not destroyed.  However, the harm caused is irreparable. Shortly after the end of the American Civil War, the industrialized growth of American business interests looked for new markets and myriad ways to make money. They looked west - empty land, except for some native tribes and in many white minds, savages. Then GOLD was discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Sacred Land of the Lakota Sioux.  Any student of history could predict a firestorm brewing.

Part 2: Independence (1774- 1776) examines Thomas Jefferson’s pivotal role in America’s break from British rule, presented through pre-recorded content from The History Channel. As colonial unrest intensifies, Jefferson’s powerful words ignite a movement toward liberty. Tasked with writing the Declaration of Independence, he crafts a document that not only founds a nation but inspires democracies worldwide. Each part of this three-part series can be registered for individually.

Note: This is a recorded video (no live presenter).

Dee Collier presents a historical characterization of one of the founding mothers. Was Martha Washington as stodgy as paintings depict her? "Patsy," as she was known to her friends and family, passionately supported the Revolutionary War and her husband's determination for the creation of a free country.

Part 3: Jefferson at War (1777-1784) reveals the personal and political struggles Jefferson faced during the American Revolution, presented through pre-recorded content from The History Channel. As governor of Virginia, Jefferson is thrust into crisis with no military experience, facing invasion, failure, and public criticism. This powerful episode explores how wartime tested, and nearly broke, one of America's founding leaders.Each part of this three-part series can be registered for individually.

Note: This is a recorded video (no live presenter).

From his strong-willed mother to his artistic sister and from a devoted wife who raised his first six children to the client's wife he left her for, Frank Lloyd Wright's personal story can be told through the women he loved and the homes he built for them.  Armed with numerous scandalous stories and a genuine love of the architectural genius, Master Storyteller Timothy Totten shines a sympathetic light on the players in the story of Wright's life and work.  

WARNING: This storytelling session includes descriptions of violence, including mass murder and arson.

This PowerPoint program opens a door into the Native American's world of Art, Time, Peace Pipes & Treaties, Dwellings, Music & Instruments, Dances, Bows & Arrows, Numerology and Sacred Rituals & Ceremonies. Then, it reveals the hardships they had to endure, over and over, from the “Manifest Destiny” incursions on their homelands, hunting grounds, food sources, pony express, telegraph lines, settlers, gold-miners and soldiers building their forts and carrying out of their frequent, surprise massacres.

Most know Benjamin Franklin as a witty statesman and wise Founding Father, but fewer recognize his groundbreaking role as one of the 18th century’s most influential scientists and inventors. In this recorded video presentation from the History Channel, explore Franklin’s inventive mind and how his scientific curiosity changed the world.

From the practical Pennsylvania Stove to the revolutionary lightning rod, Franklin’s creations weren’t just clever, they were life-changing. Join us as we delve into the story of a man who blended reason, resourcefulness, and imagination to solve real-world problems and shape the future.

Note: This is a recorded video (no live presenter).

Experience history brought to life as two performers step into character as Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln. The Lincolns are one of the most intriguing First Couples. Abe, a man with no formal education, had to hold the union together and lead it through its most troublesome internal period, the War Between the States. Mary, besides carrying the burden of running the mansion, was also suffering deep personal tragedies. The positive and negative qualities of both are shown in this 60 minute presentation. Mary's tragic life after Abe's death, which few are aware of, fills the final emotionally charged 7 minutes of the performance.

 

 

This presentation explores the political landscape of post-Soviet Russia and traces the rise of Vladimir Putin from a former KGB officer to the dominant figure in Russian politics. We'll examine the chaos following the collapse of the USSR, the power struggles of the 1990s, and how Putin's background, alliances, and strategy allowed him to take control. The session will also consider the political reforms, crises, and public sentiment that shaped his ascent to power—and ultimately, how he became Russia’s longest-serving leader since Stalin. Join us to understand the pivotal moments that defined Putin’s path and reshaped Russia.

George Washington was our nation's greatest military leader, the man who won the Revolutionary War and secured independence. As a combat veteran dating from his experiences in the French and Indian War, he also understood the costs and sacrifices of warfare. As president, he drew on his deep understanding of warfare to secure our nation's future by securing peace.

Award-winning historian and educator Edward G. Lengel, Ph.D., former director of the Washington Papers Project at the University of Virginia, brings Washington's story to life. Author of fourteen books, including General George Washington: A Military Life, Lengel is a National Humanities Medal co-recipient, two-time Army Historical Foundation award winner, and frequent media commentator. His expertise offers a vivid portrait of Washington as both soldier and statesman. Lengel will be presenting remotely.

Vikings were truly the most interesting traders, settlers, raiders and party goers of the dark ages. This presentation provides an in- depth view of Viking history including their mighty ships, their weapons, navigation, their food and even how they dressed for battle.

In this dynamic lecture, journey back to the Gilded Age and discover how Henry Flagler, co-founder of Standard Oil, transformed Florida’s coasts with his bold vision. His Florida East Coast Railway didn't just build tracks- it built cities, from Palm Beach to Miami and all the way to Key West. Hear how Flagler's crews overcame hurricanes, swamps, and engineering challenges to connect the Sunshine State. Learn how alliances with figures like Julia Tuttle helped turn Miami into a booming city. Flagler's grand hotels and infrastructure helped shape Florida into a winter retreat and global destination.

When most people think about the work of Albert Einstein they imagine exotic physics beyond our everyday experience. However, this is very far from the truth. We will be using the Teaching Company course by Chad Orzel of Union college to set the record straight. From toasters to Quantum Cryptography, we will learn how the work of the great sage has changed our world.

Discover the history, legends and cultures of the Emerald Isle from when the first settlers rowed their tiny, skin boats across wild seas from England. Centuries of Druid, Celt, and Viking settlements have left Ireland with a rich and permanent collection of myths and legends. Learn the true stories behind the legends of leprechauns, fairies, changelings, pookas, banshees, and the Blarney Stone.

As luck would have it, both men are looking for that type of position. The class will decide which gentleman will be hired for their company. Prof. Carter will discuss both men's careers before and during the Civil War. The leadership qualities of both men will be discussed, as well as their successes and failures. Your pre-talk favorite may change. This is a big decision.

Susanna Dickinson was one of the few survivors of the Battle of the Alamo, spared so she could carry the chilling message of the Texan defeat to General Sam Houston. Imagine hearing that brutal battle firsthand while attempting to shelter your infant daughter from the chaos. Susanna Dickenson's courage and resilience thrust her into a unique role in Texas history. Her story is both heartbreaking and heroic.  Dee Collier's 1st person portrayal of Susanna will transport you to that 1836, battle and its ramifications, “Remember the Alamo.”

Explore the political origins of John F. Kennedy in Into the Political Jungle (1946-1956), a pre-recorded documentary from The History Channel. Returning from WWII, a young JFK embarks on a bold new mission: winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. This episode traces his rise through Massachusetts politics as he lays the foundation for a national future.

Note: This is a recorded video (no live presenter).

Find out why Columbus was returned to Spain in chains, why the Dutch needed salt, if the native tribes were cannibals, and many other historical facts about the islands of the Caribbean.

In this compelling course, acclaimed historian and author Paul Sparrow explores the groundbreaking themes of his book, Awakening the Spirit of America: FDR's War of Words With Charles Lindbergh And the Battle to Save Democracy. Drawing on his years as director of the FDR Presidential Library, Sparrow offers a powerful, insider’s look at how Franklin Delano Roosevelt overcame deep political opposition and isolationist sentiment to lead the United States into World War II and onto the world stage.

Through storytelling and expert analysis, Sparrow tells participants about how history was made, revealing how Roosevelt’s masterful use of language, media, and persuasion reshaped the American identity and redefined global leadership. This course will shed light on the strategies, struggles, and triumphs of FDR’s presidency, offering timely lessons on resilience, vision, and the enduring power of words.

Join Paul Sparrow for an unforgettable journey into the heart of American history and discover how the "spirit of America" was awakened at one of its most critical turning points. Sparrow will be presenting remote.

The rise of a battlefield general, manager of people and philosopher was methodical and meteoric. His book "The Art of War" is still being used in war colleges around the world, senior management trainings, espionage, and for entrepreneurs who aspire to successful supervisory positions; and they are eternally applicable to all aspects of life.

In the fifty years spanning 1870 to 1920, America saw the greatest economic boom in human history, vaulting our nation to the pinnacle of prosperity. Men whose names remain familiar today, like Cornelius Vanderbilt, Henry Ford, Cyrus McCormick, John Deere and Thomas Edison all contributed to America’s ever-growing wealth and productivity.

But it was essentially the efforts of four men who took America to undreamed of heights through their genius, their drive, and their determination.  The names Rockefeller, Carnegie, Morgan and Gould are all synonymous with the traits that made America the greatest nation in history. That they accomplished great things is unquestioned. Yet the methods they employed often caused critics to refer to them collectively with the unflattering term "Robber Barons." This presentation focuses on the lives and actions of these men who essentially built the America we know today. Instructor will be presenting remotely.

This true-life PowerPoint presentation gives a brief biography of two senior military officers during the Cold War. It tells what they did, and what happened because of their actions. They risked their careers - even their very lives - to follow their consciences and convictions. We should all be grateful because they saved our countries, world, and every one of us.

Hollywood and the motion picture industry looms large in our lives. We've seen great movies, mediocre movies and flat out bad ones. Jerry Colen will be with us not to discuss any movie, but to talk with us about some of the sex, scandals and murders with which some of our famous, or is it infamous movie stars have been involved. Jerry says that this lecture will be a bitter-sweet, perhaps, funny and always entertaining look at the "other side" of the camera.

Their pictures, names and crimes filled the newspapers but what was their backstory? How did they live, who did they love and how did they die?

Join us for a virtual tour of one of the most powerful art experiences of our time- a walk through of the Imagining Freedom Gallery at the Norman Rockwell Museum, featuring the works of Norman Rockwell, one of America's most beloved and influential artists. Witness the stories of everyday Americans as Rockwell saw them: honest, hopeful, and deeply human.

Together, we'll explore themed rooms such as:
* U.S. American Life Before WWII
*FDR's Four Freedoms
*Rockwell's Four Freedoms on Tour

Note: This is not a virtual live walk through the exhibits, however an actual visual experience with commentary on great Norman Rockwell paintings, which documents the American experience.

These three spies kept authorities and security departments fooled into thinking they were loyal employees, above suspicion. They were even given awards by their governments for outstanding performance, all the while knifing their employers in the back. How and why did they do it?