Click on any entry in Barry Bradford’s Speaking Schedule for full details.

  • Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age (Andrew Carnegie)

    Zoom

    Today, we focus on the earliest American millionaires - John Jacob Astor and Cornelius Vanderbilt.  They would rank #4 and #3, respectively, on the list of the wealthiest Americans of all time!  Their names are still synonymous with wealth and … Continue reading

    $5
  • Benjamin Franklin

    Zoom

    Benjamin Franklin has been called "The First American." Certainly, no life can compare to his. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most successful businessmen in American history. Although Franklin started his life in poverty, he grew to be phenomenally wealthy. … Continue reading

    $5
  • The Lifer And Career Of George Clooney

    Seaford Public Library 2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, NY, United States

    George Clooney is one of the most celebrated actors and cultural icons of our time. From his breakout role as Dr. Doug Ross on ER to his commanding performances in Syriana and The Descendants, George Clooney has captivated audiences with … Continue reading

  • Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age: Rockefeller

    Private Venue

      During the Gilded Age, a small circle of Americans accumulated fortunes so vast they reshaped the nation itself. But one man stood above them all. When asked to name the richest American in history, most people instinctively say Bill … Continue reading

    $5
  • Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age: Rockefeller

    Zoom

      During the Gilded Age, a small circle of Americans accumulated fortunes so vast they reshaped the nation itself. But one man stood above them all. When asked to name the richest American in history, most people instinctively say Bill … Continue reading

    $5
  • Television In The 1950s

    Glenview Senior Center 2400 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL, United States

    The fabulous 1950s are often called The "First Golden Era" of Television!Mel With programs ranging from  "I Love Lucy" to Edward R. Murrow, Sid Caesar to live dramas weekly, , from rigged quiz shows, Gunsmoke, and soap operas, the 1950s … Continue reading

  • The Beach Boys: America’s Band and Their Timeless Sound

    North Shore Senior Center 161 Northfield Road, Northfield

    With Brian Wilson's death on June 11, 2025, American music lost one of its most dynamic and original creators. As co-founder of the Beach Boys, Wilson was the musical genius behind the California sound, melding lush harmonies, inventive arrangements, and … Continue reading

    $5
  • The Best Movies That Didn’t Win An Oscar

    Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Senior Center 100 E. Old Mill Road, Lake Forest, IL, United States

    Some of the greatest films in cinematic history walked away from the Academy Awards empty-handed. Despite critical acclaim, box office success, and lasting cultural impact, masterpieces like The Shawshank Redemption, Singin’ in the Rain, and Dr. Strangelove never won a … Continue reading

  • Bobby Darin: A Brilliant Career Cut Short

    Private Venue

    With the debut of the new Broadway musical Just in Time on April 23, 2025, American music is experiencing a joyful revival of one of its most dynamic stars, Bobby Darin. The show has introduced a whole new audience to … Continue reading