Jim offers a variety of lecture, discussion, and entertainment programs to engage and inspire audiences of all ages.

The History of Submarines

From the ancient Greeks until today, submarines have captured our imagination and inspired amazing feats of engineering, ingenuity, and courage. This lecture traces the development of submarines from their first mention in 332 BCE through today’s cutting-edge designs and concepts. Along the way you will meet inventors, entrepeneurs and visionaries, and hear stories of life aboard one of the most unusual places humans have been. With captivating visuals and time for Q&A, this talk is sure to get people ‘thinking about sinking.’

The History of Pinball

Did you know that pinball machines were banned in New York City for decades? Or that the first pinball ghame was invented in France in 1777? This fascinating pastime reaches into our imaginations not only in the creation of the themes and artwork in pinball, but also the marvelous mechanical engineering that makes the games work, much of which has barely changed in over 100 years! Pinball fans will love talking about games they love, and everyone will have a great time as they imagine the long and uphill climb to becoming a Pinball Wizard.