POPULARITY
Many countries and companies are competing to be the first to achieve “artificial general intelligence,” a theoretical AI that can match or beat humans in any task. China hopes that putting AI in a body – by investing in humanoid robots – will give their developers an edge. Also: today's stories, including what Iceland is weighing before it votes on whether to restart talks about joining the European Union; how a global initiative to pay-what-you-can for high end dining started by a restaurant in Mexico City has expanded; and a Monitor writer's review of DéLana R.A. Dameron's last novel, “Fairfield County.” Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.
Cheryl Kellond made her first angel investment in an at-home fertility startup and watched it get written off to zero. She still says it was worth it, and she built Play Money to make sure more women get the chance to find out for themselves how to start angel investing. Cheryl is the founder and CEO of Play Money and a serial entrepreneur who has raised more than $20 million in venture capital and led nearly a billion dollars in product revenue. On Getting Rich Together, host Syama Bunten asks Cheryl about the founder who went silent after taking her money, and how that experience shaped an angel investing platform for beginners instead of scaring her off the space entirely. Cheryl breaks down why startup investing for women has long relied on fragmented deal flow, individual outreach, and warm introductions, and why she built Play Money to make angel investing work more like scrolling than fundraising. She also runs the math on an idea that became a major aha moment for her. If just 20 percent of accredited investors invested $10,000 a year, she says they could move $30 billion in capital and replicate the entire early-stage startup funding ecosystem. Cheryl also shares how to start angel investing with a check the size of a weekend trip, and why communication between founders and their investors matters long after the check is written. Find a salon near you or grab a seat at the Wealth Catalyst Summit in San Francisco on October 16 at wealthcatalyst.com Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Cheryl Kellond 02:13 Shy Childhood, Fairfield County, and Early Rebellion 07:39 Single Motherhood, Night Shifts, and University of Chicago 11:14 The MIT Sloan Admissions Story 12:03 Blogging, Building HTML Sites, and the AOL Sale 19:22 California, Marriage, and the Move to Colorado 22:01 Chaos, Growth, and a Career at Yahoo 27:17 The Boardroom Moment That Changed Everything 28:32 Launching a Startup and Learning It the Hard Way 45:50 Her First Angel Investment and What Went Wrong 49:05 How to Start Angel Investing Through Play Money 56:35 The Math Behind Moving Billions in Capital 1:00:46 Fun Money, Costa Rica, and a Final Ask Find more from Syama Bunten: Your money story may be shaping your financial life more than you realize. After hundreds of conversations with women at all stages of their financial lives, Syama distilled the questions that helped her understand her own patterns into The Money Story Reset, a free guide featuring five guided reflections and personal stories from her journey. Download The Money Story Reset and begin uncovering the beliefs behind your financial decisions. Attend a Salon near you: wealthcatalyst.com/salons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/syama.co/ Join Syama's Substack: https://thewealthcatalystwithsyama.substack.com/ Website: https://wealthcatalyst.com Download Syama's Free Resources: https://wealthcatalyst.com/resources Wealth Catalyst Summit: https://wealthcatalyst.com/summits Speaking: https://syamabunten.com Big Delta Capital: www.bigdeltacapital.com Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
This episode of The Reading Black Girls is a lively, off-the-cuff “yap sesh” where the girls catch up on what they've been reading, from contemporary fiction and Southern Gothic horror to thrillers, legal suspense, and romance, while also sharing the books they're most excited to read next. Along the way, they bounce between funny tangents about coffee, soda, hydration, bees, and social issues, but keep circling back to their love of books and reading in whatever format and pace feels right. The conversation is full of personality, book recommendations, and playful chemistry, with each host highlighting recent favorites like Where the Wildflowers Grow, Judge Stone, Fairfield County, Misconnections, and These Walls Remember.
Columbus just landed Electra's $850 million EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft manufacturing plant at AirPark Ohio, is building a $100 million early childhood learning center on a former jail site and generated 6.5 million union building trades work hours at Google facilities alone last year. And the American Federation of Labor was founded downtown in 1886. On today's Trades Day episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, C/COBCTC Executive Secretary-Treasurer Dorsey Hager delivers his monthly update covering Intel's continued ramp-up, upcoming public hearings for two major gas-powered energy centers that will supply data center campuses in Fairfield County and Asheville, a new project labor agreement for the $100 million Franklin County early childhood learning center, the state of Ohio's data center conversation at the local government level and what happened when building trades members brought brick walls and concrete finishing to the Ohio State Fair. Visit columbusconstruction.org for more.
Connecticut domestic violence advocates are warning that delays in federal funding could have serious consequences. Leaders say shelters and support programs may be forced to cut services, reduce staff, or limit help for survivors if funding doesn't arrive soon. We spoke with Mark Antonini President and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Family Justice in Fairfield County. CFJ was one of five organizations at a roundtable this week about this concern.For more information on CFJ: https://centerforfamilyjustice.org/
The Fairfield County Infirmary in Lancaster, Ohio is widely considered one of the most haunted locations in the state. It has extensive paranormal activity reported across every wing of the 1840 brick building. The site's history as a poorhouse, orphanage, and asylum for the destitute and mentally ill resulted in over 1,200 unmarked burials on the grounds…contributing to its reputation as a "living graveyard!!!”https://hauntedus.com/ohio/fairfield-county-infirmary/https://thefarlandlegacy.com/fairfield-county-infirmary/https://adventureaftercancer.net/fairfield-county-infirmary/https://amyscrypt.com/haunted-fairfield-county-infirmary/https://m.youtube.com/shorts/sRu9qHDghOU?ra=mhttps://search.brave.com/search?q=fairfield+county+infirmiry+haunted&summary=1&conversation=0957780d72c5cee57841a6a1fe4e8f62f064
Trial date set for George "Billy" Wagner III in the Pike County massacre case; Congressman Max Miller says he will stay in the race for his seat despite mounting pressure to drop out; nursing facility in central Ohio's Fairfield County reports an outbreak of Legionnaire's disease; name of Cleveland's WNBA team revealed.
The Darien Little League team beat Waterford 7-4 yesterday to win the Connecticut state championship. They are heading to the Metro Regional for the first time since 1966 with a chance to go to Williamsport. We spoke with Rob Adams, local sports broadcaster and play-by-play announcer in Fairfield County, about the historic run for the team.
Pastor Mitch Price from Life Vineyard in Fairfield County uses the story of Moses to teach how God calls us to join Him in what He is doing, but like Moses, we often use excuses and allow our insecurities stop us from what God is calling us into. However, with God, He is always with us, and He is the One who gives us the ability to do what He's calling us into. We never go at it alone!
In this episode of the REDX Podcast, John Nigro, a REALTOR® serving Fairfield County, Connecticut, shares how he transitioned from relying primarily on his sphere of influence to building a scalable business through consistent prospecting. After realizing that even a strong personal network has its limits, John began incorporating FSBOs, expired listings, GeoLeads, and other prospecting opportunities into his daily routine, creating a reliable system for generating new business year-round. Throughout the conversation, John explains why consistency is key to building a steady income, how customizing follow-up plans to each prospect's situation leads to stronger relationships, and why approaching every conversation with a genuine desire to help yields better results than relying on scripted sales pitches. He shares his favorite strategy for calling older FSBOs, discusses how to balance proven scripts with authentic conversations, and explains why prospecting should remain the highest priority, even when business is booming. John also offers practical advice for avoiding the feast-or-famine cycle, maintaining discipline, and creating a business that supports both professional success and a fulfilling personal life. Whether you're just beginning your real estate career or looking to build a more predictable pipeline, this episode provides actionable strategies for creating sustainable, long-term growth.Here's What You'll Discover in This Episode...• Why consistent prospecting creates consistent income in a commission-based business.• How expanding beyond your sphere of influence leads to long-term business growth.• What makes older FSBOs one of John's favorite prospecting opportunities.• Why follow-up plans should be tailored to each prospect's timeline and needs.• How to approach conversations with a "how can I help?" mindset builds trust.• Why scripts should serve as templates instead of word-for-word conversations.• How to avoid the feast-or-famine cycle through disciplined daily prospecting.• What role the REDX Dialer plays in overcoming call hesitation and staying productive.• Why separating business time from personal time improves consistency and focus.• How today's market creates an opportunity for agents to demonstrate their value.JUMP TO THESE TOPICS03:17 –
There is a growing community of Hispanic homebuyers in Fairfield County who are ready to buy, ready to build wealth through real estate, and often underserved by the industry. In this episode of the CT Real Estate Edge Podcast, Rob Weinberg sits down with Jennifer Morales, a bilingual real estate agent with Century 21 AllPoints Realty in Stamford, to talk about what it actually looks like to serve the Spanish-speaking community with the level of care and clarity every buyer deserves. Jennifer brings more than language to the table. She holds a BBA cum laude from Western Connecticut State University, has a background in financial analysis and small business ownership, and serves on the Finance Committee of INTEMPO's Board of Directors, a nonprofit deeply rooted in the Latino community of Fairfield County. She understands the financial questions, the cultural nuances, and the real barriers that Hispanic buyers and sellers face in today's market, and she is doing something about it one transaction at a time. If you are a Spanish-speaking buyer or seller in Stamford, Norwalk, or the surrounding area, or if you simply want to understand this important and growing segment of the Connecticut real estate market, this episode is for you.
Thursday's "Connecticut Today" featured host Paul Pacelli asking Fairfield County residents to try and adopt a more measured, reasonable approach on the future of some controversial surveillance technology (00:24). Former State Senate GOP Leader John McKinney dropped by with his weekly report as well (14:25)
On this episode of the HAYVN Hubcast, Nancy Sheed is joined by Kelly Fitzpatrick, founder and president of Blue Park Restaurants, discussing her journey from working in hospitality to building successful restaurant concepts in New York City. Kelly shares how thoughtful career decisions, strong mentorship, and a willingness to take calculated risks helped her launch Blue Park Kitchen and now expand into franchising with Jersey Mike's and Magnolia Bakery. Key Points Kelly's path into hospitality wasn't driven by a lifelong dream of becoming a chef, but by her love of the restaurant industry and customer service. After studying hospitality at Cornell and culinary arts in Napa, she gained valuable operational experience that prepared her for entrepreneurship. Rather than rushing into business ownership, Kelly spent years learning every aspect of restaurant operations. Working with the founders of Melt Shop gave her firsthand experience opening locations, managing teams, and scaling a fast casual concept. Launching Blue Park Kitchen in New York City required careful planning, mentorship, and persistence. Kelly credits experienced industry mentors and local business development resources with helping her successfully navigate the challenges of opening her first restaurant. The COVID-19 pandemic tested every aspect of the business, but strong landlord relationships, government support, and an exceptional leadership team helped Blue Park Kitchen survive while also creating opportunities for strategic expansion into a second Manhattan location. Recognizing the increasing challenges of competing with large, private equity-backed restaurant chains, Kelly made the strategic decision to diversify her business. She successfully secured franchise rights for Jersey Mike's in Westchester County and the Bronx and is now bringing Magnolia Bakery to Fairfield County, all while maintaining a people-first culture across every brand she leads. Kelly's story demonstrates that lasting business success comes from combining preparation with courage. By investing in experience, surrounding herself with strong mentors, and staying focused on building great teams and company culture, she's created a business that continues to grow through both independent concepts and national franchise partnerships. Her journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable hospitality businesses while remaining adaptable in an ever-changing marketplace. Connect with Kelly Website Instagram Connect with Nancy LinkedIn Instagram Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you're buying or selling a home in towns like Trumbull, Monroe, Fairfield, or Shelton, local knowledge makes all the difference. In this episode of the CT Real Estate Edge Podcast, Rob Weinberg sits down with Kimberly Levinson, a licensed Realtor since 2005 and lifelong resident of the Trumbull and Monroe area, to talk about what it really takes to navigate the Greater Bridgeport real estate market. Kimberly has spent nearly two decades building a reputation around relationships, not transactions. She's been named REALTOR of the Year by the Greater Bridgeport Board of REALTORS, recognized as a Five Star Agent for four consecutive years, and has taught continuing education courses to fellow agents since 2013. She serves buyers and sellers across Monroe, Trumbull, Easton, Huntington, Stratford, Shelton, Milford, Fairfield, and Newtown, with expertise spanning residential resales, condos, new construction, and land sales. Rob and Kimberly talk about what's actually happening in the greater Fairfield market right now, how she approaches every client like they're her only client, and what buyers and sellers in this part of Connecticut should know before making their next move. If you're navigating real estate in this corner of the state, this episode is worth your time. Connect with Kimberly Levinson: kimberlybraunlevinson.com
The President is calling on Canada to "get the wildfires under control." President Trump said he told Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that Canada needed to do more to contain the fires in Ontario, whose smoke has affected air quality across the US, including Connecticut. Does the Connecticut Republican party agree with the president to threaten Canada with tariffs because of the fires? We asked state Senator Tony Hwang representing parts of Fairfield County.Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz
Fairfield County native Jacqueline Ratliff is sailing aboard the Nautilus, in hopes of documenting unexplored ocean habitats.
Fairfield County real estate moves fast, and the people who understand it best are the ones who have lived it from every angle. In this episode of the CT Real Estate Edge Podcast, Rob Weinberg sits down with Barb Hazelton, Branch Manager for Coldwell Banker's offices in Fairfield County, where she leads almost 250 agents across two of the most active markets in Connecticut. With 14 years of her own production experience behind her and a career that began well outside of real estate, Barb brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective on what is actually happening in the market right now. Rob and Barb cover what buyers and sellers need to know to compete in Fairfield County today, how the role of a great agent has evolved, and what strong brokerage leadership looks like in a market this demanding. Barb also draws on her deep community roots and her service on the Darien Zoning Board of Appeals to paint a picture of a real estate professional who is as invested in people as she is in production. If you are buying, selling, or building a real estate career in Fairfield County, this conversation belongs in your playlist.
There is a pitch to build a bridge over Long Island by Fairfield County developer, Steve Shapiro. We wanted to check back in with Shapiro with an update on the proposal, starting with the possibility of funding a study.
Liz Flavin joins the Anna and Raven show to discuss Maison Privee Agency, a boutique placement agency specializing in newborn care specialists and nannies, serving families across Fairfield County, CT, Westchester, NY, and New York City. For more information, check out the website https://www.maisonpriveeagency.com/
Jill Christman is a 2020 NEA Prose Fellow and the author of If This Were Fiction: A Love Story in Essays and two memoirs, Darkroom: A Family Exposure and Borrowed Babies: Apprenticing for Motherhood, and The Heart Folds Early: A Memoir. In today's episode, Jill and Annmarie discuss healthcare, heartaches, and how to make it through when the thing we fear most comes true. Bookstore Spotlights: Barrett Bookstore – The oldest and largest independent bookstore in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Woman-founded in 1939 and woman-owned today, Barrett booksellers develop relationships with authors (hosting many events like our yearly Ladies of Summer panel), partnerships with local schools and libraries, and friendships with our loyal patrons. Visit Barrett in Darien, CT or at barrettbookstore.com. Newtonville Books – An independent bookstore located at 10 Langley Rd, in Newton, Massachusetts -- in the old stone building at the north corner of the triangle parking lot. Come for the books. Stay for the books. And learn more and shop online at newtonvillebooks.com. Titles by Jill Christman: If This Were Fiction: A Love Story in Essays Darkroom: A Family Exposure Borrowed Babies: Apprenticing for Motherhood The Heart Folds Early: A Memoir. Follow Jill Christman: Instagram: @jillchristmanwriter Bluesky: @jillchristman.bsky.social Substack: @riverteethjill jillchristman.com **Writing Workshops: If you liked this conversation and are interested in writing together, please consider the opportunities below. For women interested in an online Saturday morning writing circle, you can sign up here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Regina Calderone didn't follow a blueprint. She followed her passion and it led her somewhere she never expected.In this episode, Hugs sits down with his friend Regina, founder of RCP Team, a full-service high-volume youth sports and school photography company based in Fairfield County, Connecticut. In just three years, Regina grew her business by over 300% and then grew it another 75% after that.But the numbers aren't what makes this story remarkable. It's everything she was carrying while building it. Regina opens up about leaving a marriage where she felt invisible, rediscovering herself at her very first photography conference, and how it took 18 months of hard inner work to become strong enough to walk away and start over — with two kids and a brand new business in tow.She also shares how she went from never having run a mile in her life to completing a half Iron Man in September 2024.This episode is for the women building quietly. For anyone who's been called selfish for putting themselves first. For every person who's said "I'm not ready yet" when really, the only thing left to do is show up.
Selling a home in Greenwich, Connecticut is not like selling anywhere else. The buyers are sophisticated, the stakes are high, and the margin for error is zero. In this episode of the CT Real Estate Edge Podcast, Rob Weinberg sits down with Jennifer Leahy, one of the most accomplished luxury real estate agents in the country, to talk about what it actually takes to move high-end properties in Fairfield County and beyond. Jennifer leads the Jennifer Leahy Team at Compass, consistently ranked the number one team in Connecticut by Real Trends. With over $1.25 billion in career sales and a client list that spans some of the most discerning buyers and sellers in the tri-state area, Jennifer offers a perspective on the luxury market that is rare, candid, and deeply practical. This conversation goes beyond the price tags. Jennifer and Rob dig into the psychology of the ultra-luxury transaction, the marketing strategies that actually move eight and nine-figure properties, and why selling at the top of the market demands a completely different playbook. If you are thinking about buying or selling at the upper end of the Connecticut market, this is the episode that will change how you think about the process. Connect with Jennifer on Instagram : @jenniferleahyhomes
Westfair Communications hosted its 2026 C-Suite Awards on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the Mansion on Broadway in White Plains, NY. The evening celebrated outstanding senior executives and organizations across Fairfield and Westchester Counties, highlighting the visionary strategies and innovative initiatives driving the local economy. It brought together regional leaders and decision-makers to honor stories of resilience and leadership, emphasizing how individual business success helps elevate the entire community.Glen LeBlanc, Chief Lending Officer at Fairfield County Bank, shared his insights with host Joan Franzino during the celebration. Glen, who manages a team of lenders and administrative assistants to finance businesses and commercial real estate projects across Westchester and Connecticut, detailed his long career which uniquely included a 12-year stint as a "junk man" in his family's salvage yard business. He emphasized that his hands-on experience running a family business gave him a profound understanding of what business owners undergo to maintain operations, purchase inventory, and make payroll, allowing him to better serve his banking clients today.
The 20th annual Swim Across America - Fairfield County's open water swim is happening June 20, so we'll welcome back the event's director to prep you to be part of one of the largest open water events in the tri-state area, attracting hundreds of swimmers, volunteers and spectators to support the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy.
Dave Hidalgo is the proud owner of DHS Home Improvement based in CT. He took a leap of faith 19 years ago leaving his native country, Costa Rica, and his loving family, to follow a dream and take his experience and creativity to a new level. With a work visa in hand, he left for new horizons and to chase a dream. In his interview, he illustrates his journey and shares that he first learned about furniture design and construction from his father who began teaching him when Dave was just 7 years old. He describes the first piece he created and that he still possesses, and how in a recent conversation on the phone with his mother she reminisced and recalled the many pieces of furniture he made for their family home over the years. For the last 11 years, he has been on his own, building his business with one referral to another. His reputation, one of honesty, integrity and impeccable attention to detail, makes him highly sought after in Fairfield County. He fondly remembers how his journey in the U.S. started and offers a respectful message of gratitude for having mentors helping him along the way. Dave offers excellent advice to new entrepreneurs and incorporates an important reminder about maintaining personal health while balancing the demands of business ownership. A true family man committed to his wife and two children, he shares that it can often be difficult to balance his business responsibilities with his desire to not miss the day-to-day school activities and memorable milestones. This conversation showcases a beautiful story of an immigrant with a dream to pursue his passion to create, bring joy into his customers homes, and to build a life and future for his family.
The 20th annual Swim Across America - Fairfield County's open water swim is happening June 20, so we'll welcome back the event's director to prep you to be part of one of the largest open water events in the tri-state area, attracting hundreds of swimmers, volunteers and spectators to support the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy.Then, we'll celebrate the 40th Anniversary of New Horizons Village and its mission supporting a caring and independent lifestyle for hundreds of residents across its facilities. Hear from two of the organizations leaders about how New Horizons has always been ahead of its time when it comes to innovative programs and services.And we'll close with a focus on Pride Month, welcoming back a rep from the Bridgeport Pride Center which is hosting its 16th annual Greater Bridgeport Pride celebration later this month. Learn how you can be part of GBP's hallmark Pride March, which is expanding with a pre-march rally featuring elected officials and community speakers, plus some exciting entertainment.
This week we sit down with serial entrepreneur Dominick DiFilippo — Leader of the Empire Team with Keller Williams, Founder of AccountaBuddy, and Owner of Empire Sound. From real estate success in Hudson Valley, NY and Fairfield County, CT to building multiple businesses and Dominick shares the mindset and work ethic behind the hustle. Instagram: @Domdifilippo Website: https://www.empireteam.com/agents/Dominick-DiFilippo/8821367 Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here! https://www.flyingcigars.com/brands/the-burn-down-podcast/ https://getyourcigars.com/products/the-burn-down-podcast-sampler-pack https://tiptopsmoke.com/?s=burn+down+podcast
Priya Parmar is the author of the novel, Vanessa and Her Sister, a New York Times Notable Book, and her latest novel, The Original, is out now. In today's episode, Annmarie and Priya discuss their shared obsession with movie star, Katharine Hepburn, gender norms in old Hollywood, and how to know when a book is really finished. Bookstore Spotlights: Barrett Bookstore – The oldest and largest independent bookstore in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Woman-founded in 1939 and woman-owned today, Barrett booksellers develop relationships with authors (hosting many events like our yearly Ladies of Summer panel), partnerships with local schools and libraries, and friendships with our loyal patrons. Visit Barrett in Darien, CT or at barrettbookstore.com. Newtonville Books – An independent bookstore located at 10 Langley Rd, in Newton, Massachusetts -- in the old stone building at the north corner of the triangle parking lot. Come for the books. Stay for the books. And learn more and shop online at newtonvillebooks.com. Titles by Priya Parmar: Exit the Actress Vanessa and Her Sister The Original Additional Titles Mentioned in This Episode: The Foursome, by Christina Baker Kline Desk Set The Philadelphia Story Adam's Rib Sylvia Scarlett Follow Priya Parmar: Facebook: @priyaparmar Instagram: @priyaparmarwriting Substack: Plum Bean Notes @priyaparmarwriting priyaparmar.net **Writing Workshops: If you liked this conversation and are interested in writing together, please consider the opportunities below. For women interested in an online Saturday morning writing circle, you can sign up here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For almost 40 years, Pacific House has been responding to the needs of men and young adults who struggle with homelessness in Fairfield County. CEO and President of the organization, Carmen Colon, sat down at the Elm Street Diner with Melissa as part of the WICC Brown Roofing Melissa In The Morning Diner Tour.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Karla Checo, Founder, KGC Consulting, spoke with host Joan Franzino, Karla spoke about launching her firm at the start of the 2020 pandemic to help small businesses navigate complex financial reporting and payroll. She highlighted her background in construction management and credited the local Chamber of Commerce for helping her grow from a solo operation into a thriving consultancy.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Catniss Locati from 25 Van Zant spoke with host Joan Franzino. Catinissi shared her unique career path of solving real-world problems through fine art, including her work in medical pigment tattooing for cancer survivors. She also discussed her new venture into sustainable technology, specifically developing hydrogen-powered mini-grids for eco-friendly data centers.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Bobbi Brown, CEO, #100 GirlsLeadingInc, spoke with host Joan Franzino. Bobbi discussed the mission of her non-profit to provide "interactive mentorship" to girls in Bridgeport. She emphasized the importance of showing young women career opportunities in diverse fields like the trades, medical science, and entrepreneurship to help them build their own legacies.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Symphony Paris, anchor Fox 61-Hartford, Hartford spoke with host Joan Franzino. Symphony was there supporting her husband, Corey Paris, State Representative & Chief Impact Officer at Person to Person. She discussed her husband's dual commitment to legislative advocacy and grassroots social service. She highlighted his efforts to address food and housing insecurity through "Person to Person" and his legislative work regarding DCF reforms.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Deirdre Valinski, Director of Radiography, Sacred Heart University spoke with host Joan Franzino. Deirdre discussed moving from a decade of clinical work as an X-ray and CT technician into her role as an assistant professor and program director. She shared the challenges and rewards of balancing academia with her continued clinical practice as a Registered Radiologist Assistant.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Julia Douglas, Community Relations Officer, Newtown Savings Bank, spoke with host Joan Franzino. Julie explained how the bank's mutual structure allows her to focus on long-term community investments rather than shareholder returns. She discussed her work in affordable housing, financial literacy, and the importance of hiring leaders who understand the non-profit sector.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Paul Lutsky, Commercial Lender, Fairfield County Bank, spoke with host Joan Franzino. Paul recounted his 15-year career journey, starting as an intern at a single-branch bank where he learned the business from the ground up. He discussed the current regional boom in commercial and mixed-use real estate and the bank's role in supporting small business owners like landscapers and restaurateurs.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Matthew Mandell, Executive Director, Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce, spoke with host Joan Franzino. Matthew described his work creating "Business-to-Consumer" platforms, such as the "Slice of Saugatuck" and the annual Dog Festival, to physically bring residents into local shops. He also touched upon his run for State Representative, focusing on the need for local control over development and infrastructure.
Westfair Communications held an awards ceremony on April 20th, 2026 to honor Fairfield County's 2026 40 Under Forty Honorees, a distinguished group of young professionals recognized for their exceptional dedication and leadership across Fairfield County. More than just an accolade, this program serves as a powerful platform to celebrate high-caliber individuals who embody grit and a bold commitment to redefining success. By showcasing those who achieve remarkable industry milestones and inspire others with innovative ideas, the honor significantly enhances professional visibility and opens doors to future opportunities. The evening celebrated the passion and innovation of those daring enough to make a lasting impact on our community and the regional business landscape.Fairfield County Talk Radio was there to capture the excitement. Taylor Benedict, Director of Operations, Coastal Connecticut Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, spoke with host Andrew Castellano. Taylor discussed her transition from a career in elementary education to healthcare leadership. She emphasized that her management style is rooted in building a supportive internal culture, noting that her success is defined by her team's ability to thrive.
Kyle breaks down one of the most overlooked real estate problems in the restaurant industry right now: the off-premise lease mismatch. Over 50% of restaurant revenue is now coming from delivery and takeout, but most leases are still written for a dining-room-first business model. That gap is costing operators real money in ways that never show up on a P&L. Questions this episode answers:Should I pay for a high-visibility corner location if most of my revenue is delivery and takeout?How does off-premise dining affect my restaurant lease strategy?What should I negotiate for in a lease if my concept is delivery and pickup-heavy?How do I use my DoorDash or Uber Eats data to pick my next restaurant location?What lease provisions should I ask for to support third-party delivery drivers?Is visibility still worth paying for if most of my customers are ordering online?Actionable TakeawaysPull your sales mix from your POS before your next lease negotiation. Know your dine-in vs. off-premise split down to the percentage.If you're 50%+ off-premise, your rent ask should reflect that visibility is worth less to your model.Negotiate for pickup staging and dedicated short-term parking for third-party drivers in your LOI, not as an afterthought. Look at your DoorDash and Uber Eats dashboards as a site selection heat map. Chapters00:00 — Client story: 60% takeout, main & main rent02:37 — What this episode is about05:38 — The off-premise lease mismatch07:12 — Why your lease was built for a business you no longer run11:30 — Kitchen layout as a real estate problem13:48 — The pickup experience: when the driver walks into your dining room15:17 — What to negotiate: staging, parking, and driver flow20:32 — Dedicated parking for third-party drivers — put it in your LOI21:24 — The flip side: where off-premise is actually a negotiating advantage25:32 — Your delivery data as a site selection tool28:38 — How to bring this into your next lease negotiation32:00 — The new lease checklist for off-premise operatorsWho This Episode Is ForAny restaurant operator or multi-unit owner with a lease coming up for renewal, a new site under consideration, or a delivery-heavy business model they haven't fully integrated into their real estate strategy. Restaurant Real Estate Profitability CalculatorRun the numbers on your next location before you commit:https://calculator-app-softmind-solutions-projects.vercel.app/Lease Reviewhttps://stan.store/KyleInserra/p/lease-reviewLOI / Pre-Signing Reviewhttps://stan.store/KyleInserra/p/presigning-site-loilease-review
St. Vincent's Medical Center Comprehensive Stroke Center just earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval, raising the bar in patient safety and quality of care in Fairfield County! Jon got a behind the scenes look!
The American Lung Association released its 27th annual “State of the Air” report, which finds that nearly half of the children in the U.S. are breathing unhealthy levels of air pollution, including more than 700,000 kids in Connecticut. We spoke with Ruth Canovy, Director of Advocacy of the American Lung Association, about the specific findings in our state and learned why Fairfield County is still getting a failing grade.For more information: State of the Air | American Lung Association
The sixth annual Fashionably Westport event showcases locally-owned retailers while raising money for a Westport-based non-profit, Homes for Hope.Helen, President and CEO of Homes for Hope, shared the mission of this organization addressing homelessness and food insecurity in Fairfield County. We also spoke with Annette, owner of Savvy + Grace, one of the stores being highlighted during the fashion show Saturday April 25th. For tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fashionably-westport-2026-tickets-1984196220308?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobileTo support Homes for Hope: https://www.hwhct.org/
Not Just a Chiropractor for Stamford, Darien, Norwalk and New Canaan
Are you tired of retreating to a dark room every time a migraine strikes? If you've tried standard chiropractic adjustments, dietary triggers, and dark-room isolation with no permanent relief, it's time to look at the "second brain."In this episode, Dr. Brian McKay of Core Health Darien dives deep into the emerging science of the gut-brain axis. Research now shows that nearly 70% of migraine sufferers also experience significant gastrointestinal issues. But this isn't just a coincidence—it's a biological link. We explore the role of Metabolic Endotoxemia and how a "leaky gut" allows toxins to enter your bloodstream, sensitizing the trigeminal nerve and triggering debilitating pain.Dr. McKay breaks down the Total Gut Restoration protocol, a three-step system designed to recondition, reinforce, and rebuild your gut barrier using MegaSporeBiotic, MegaPre, and MegaMucosa. Learn how addressing gut dysbiosis has been clinically shown to reduce migraine frequency by up to 45%.Whether you're in Darien, New Canaan, or anywhere in Fairfield County, this episode provides a roadmap to stop managing symptoms and start addressing the root cause of your headaches. Tune in to discover why fixing your gut might be the missing piece in your migraine puzzle. Core Health Darien551 Post RoadDarien CT 06820203-656-3636This podcast welcomes your feedback here are several ways to reach out to me. If you have a topic you would like to hear about send me a message. I appreciate your listening. Dr. Brian Mc Kayhttps://twitter.com/DarienChiro/https://www.facebook.com/ChiropractorBrianMckayhttps://chiropractor-darien-dr-brian-mckay.business.sitehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-just-chiropractor-for-stamford-darien-norwalk-new/id1503674397?uo=4Core Health Darien-Dr.Brian Mc Kay 551 Post RoadDarien CT 06820203-656-363641.0833695 -73.46652073GMP+87 Darien, Connecticuthttps://youtu.be/WpA__dDF0O041.0834196 -73.46423349999999https://darienchiropractor.comhttps://darienchiropractor.com/darien/darien-ct-understanding-pain/Find us on Social Mediahttps://chiropractor-darien-dr-brian-mckay.business.site https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNHc0Hn85Iiet56oGUpX8rwhttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nJ9wlvg2Tne8257paDkkIBEyIz-oZZYy/edit#gid=517721981https://goo.gl/maps/js6hGWvcwHKBGCZ88https://www.youtube.com/my_videos?o=Uhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/darienchiropractorhttps://www.facebook.com/ChiropractorBrianMckayhttps://sites.google.com/view/corehealthdarien/https://sites.google.com/view/corehealthdarien/home
Not Just a Chiropractor for Stamford, Darien, Norwalk and New Canaan
Neuropathy@CoreHealthIn this episode, we dive deep into the reality of recovering from peripheral neuropathy and what it truly takes to see lasting results. While clinical treatments are essential, the real breakthrough happens when patients take ownership of their healing journey at home. We explain why your daily habits and "doing your part" are the missing pieces to optimizing your recovery.We also tackle a common misconception: the role of medication. For many, prescription drugs rarely provide the relief they promise; instead, they often mask symptoms while introducing a host of new issues and side effects.If you're looking for a different path, Neuropathy@CoreHealth is proud to be Fairfield County's leading provider of neuropathic relief. Discover how our Precision Nerve Reset Program, combined with your commitment at home, can help you regain your quality of life.Neuropathy@CoreHealthThis podcast welcomes your feedback here are several ways to reach out to me. If you have a topic you would like to hear about send me a message. I appreciate your listening. Dr. Brian Mc Kayhttps://twitter.com/DarienChiro/https://www.facebook.com/ChiropractorBrianMckayhttps://chiropractor-darien-dr-brian-mckay.business.sitehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-just-chiropractor-for-stamford-darien-norwalk-new/id1503674397?uo=4Core Health Darien-Dr.Brian Mc Kay 551 Post RoadDarien CT 06820203-656-363641.0833695 -73.46652073GMP+87 Darien, Connecticuthttps://youtu.be/WpA__dDF0O041.0834196 -73.46423349999999https://darienchiropractor.comhttps://darienchiropractor.com/darien/darien-ct-understanding-pain/Find us on Social Mediahttps://chiropractor-darien-dr-brian-mckay.business.site https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNHc0Hn85Iiet56oGUpX8rwhttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nJ9wlvg2Tne8257paDkkIBEyIz-oZZYy/edit#gid=517721981https://goo.gl/maps/js6hGWvcwHKBGCZ88https://www.youtube.com/my_videos?o=Uhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/darienchiropractorhttps://www.facebook.com/ChiropractorBrianMckayhttps://sites.google.com/view/corehealthdarien/https://sites.google.com/view/corehealthdarien/home
On March 13th, members of the Greenwich Chamber Of Commerce started their morning with great conversation, fresh coffee, and valuable insights as the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce hosted a breakfast with Sean Scanlon, Comptroller of the State Of Connecticut. It was an engaging discussion held at the beautiful Greenwich Water Club. Comptroller Scanlon shared updates on Connecticut's finances, what current trends could mean for the legislative session, and highlights impactful programs from his office - including MyCTSavings, the state-facilitated retirement savings program for employers, and ArrayRx, a free digital prescription discount card.Fairfield County Talk Radio was on hand for this informative, community-focused conversation.In this episode, Bob Marrone speaks with Heather Keane, Owner of Visiting Angels, about the vital role Visiting Angels plays in supporting seniors and families within the Fairfield County community. Heather shares the personal story behind the business and explains how their non-medical home care services help seniors age safely and independently.
On March 13th, members of the Greenwich Chamber Of Commerce started their morning with great conversation, fresh coffee, and valuable insights as the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce hosted a breakfast with Sean Scanlon, Comptroller of the State Of Connecticut. It was an engaging discussion held at the beautiful Greenwich Water Club. Comptroller Scanlon shared updates on Connecticut's finances, what current trends could mean for the legislative session, and highlights impactful programs from his office - including MyCTSavings, the state-facilitated retirement savings program for employers, and ArrayRx, a free digital prescription discount card.Fairfield County Talk Radio was on hand for this informative, community-focused conversation.In this episode, Bob Marrone explores the world of residential flooring with Troy Heidenberg, Franchise Owner of Floor Coverings International. As a third-generation flooring professional, Troy shares his expertise on the most popular flooring trends in Fairfield County and explains how his business simplifies the renovation process for homeowners.
Edith Targonski arrived to the United States from Peru when she was 19 years old. Her sister had arrived a few years before and she was so happy about being reunited with her, but unhappy to speak English. She had visited the U.S. numerous times prior to her move but didn't know much English and lacked confidence in her speaking skills. She soon met a fellow immigrant from Poland, who arrived at 17 years old with his parents. They fell in love and got married. Edith and her husband created a beautiful family blending and honoring their individual cultures from South America and Poland, while building their own family traditions. They learned English and raised their children in an English speaking household but also exposed their children to Spanish and Polish for them to have the opportunity to communicate with their grandparents and broaden their horizons. Since arriving twenty seven years ago, Edith has been very motivated to learn, grow her career and serve the community. She earned a special education degree from Sacred Heart Univ, and was an effective classroom teacher for many years. Currently, she serves as a passionate advocate for families who have children with special needs. She is a business development consultant. She has been a dedicated volunteer to many organizations, giving credit to her father for her need to give back and learning this from watching him. She has graduated about 9 senior citizens who have achieved citizenship under her tutelage at the Stamford Senior Center. She currently serves in the role of Editor-in-Chief of Latincolors magazine, which is a bilingual magazine that is widely circulated throughout Fairfield County, CT. and Westchester County, NY. The mission of Latincolors is to bridge both geographical and cultural communities and celebrate the accomplishments and endeavors of the people, agencies, groups and organizations making a positive impact in the community. It is available in both English and Spanish and is a free publication and available online. Like many other guests on the podcast, she was enrolled in the PLTI (Parent Leadership Training Institute). She has been a facilitator for People Empowering People-PEP and currently serves on the Design Team. In addition, she serves on numerous other boards in the community, all of them serving the immigrant and Latin communities in different ways, while raising her 3 children to be passionate, giving and kind people.
It's about to get really cold in our region again this weekend. The latest in the saga over monopole construction in Fairfield County. A new measure expands NASA research on Long Island. Plus, breaking down the tech bills being discussed by Connecticut lawmakers.
When you solve one real problem brilliantly, it can unlock five more and add an entire category. In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Shawn Nelson, Founder and CEO of LoveSac, who shares how a homemade “not-beanbag” snowballed into a NASDAQ-listed company with 300+ locations, a logistics moat, and the best-selling sectional platform in the U.S. He breaks down the invention mindset, LoveSac's sustainability-by-design philosophy, and why products must be designed for life to win long term. Key Takeaways: → Why logistics matter and how they can be used as your hidden superpower. → Building a product that can evolve allows it to stay relevant for decades. → Why sustainability and durability beat planned obsolescence. → Why building your own channel proves demand for your product. → If products last, growth must come from new rooms, categories, and features. Shawn Nelson is the founder and CEO of LoveSac, Inc. He graduated from the University of Utah and founded LoveSac in 1998, initially creating his first “not-bean bag” from shredded foam camp mattresses. Nelson quickly gained traction, securing an order for 12,000 Lovesacs from Limited Too, and later opening his first retail location in 2001. In 2003, he received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Nelson also appeared on Richard Branson's The Rebel Billionaire in 2005, winning a $1 million investment, and spent three months as acting president of Virgin companies. Shawn expanded LoveSac's product line to include the world's only changeable sectional couch. He earned his master's degree in strategic design and management from Parsons in 2015, where he also became a part-time instructor. That same year, he appeared on Make Me a Millionaire Inventor and delivered the keynote at the 40 Under 40 awards for Fairfield County, Connecticut. In 2018, he took LoveSac public, with shares debuting on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LOVE.” Connect With Shawn: Website: https://www.lovesac.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnoflovesac X: https://x.com/shawnoflovesac LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawndnelson/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When you solve one real problem brilliantly, it can unlock five more and add an entire category. In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Shawn Nelson, Founder and CEO of LoveSac, who shares how a homemade “not-beanbag” snowballed into a NASDAQ-listed company with 300+ locations, a logistics moat, and the best-selling sectional platform in the U.S. He breaks down the invention mindset, LoveSac's sustainability-by-design philosophy, and why products must be designed for life to win long term. Key Takeaways: → Why logistics matter and how they can be used as your hidden superpower. → Building a product that can evolve allows it to stay relevant for decades. → Why sustainability and durability beat planned obsolescence. → Why building your own channel proves demand for your product. → If products last, growth must come from new rooms, categories, and features. Shawn Nelson is the founder and CEO of LoveSac, Inc. He graduated from the University of Utah and founded LoveSac in 1998, initially creating his first “not-bean bag” from shredded foam camp mattresses. Nelson quickly gained traction, securing an order for 12,000 Lovesacs from Limited Too, and later opening his first retail location in 2001. In 2003, he received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Nelson also appeared on Richard Branson's The Rebel Billionaire in 2005, winning a $1 million investment, and spent three months as acting president of Virgin companies. Shawn expanded LoveSac's product line to include the world's only changeable sectional couch. He earned his master's degree in strategic design and management from Parsons in 2015, where he also became a part-time instructor. That same year, he appeared on Make Me a Millionaire Inventor and delivered the keynote at the 40 Under 40 awards for Fairfield County, Connecticut. In 2018, he took LoveSac public, with shares debuting on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LOVE.” Connect With Shawn: Website: https://www.lovesac.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnoflovesac X: https://x.com/shawnoflovesac LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawndnelson/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices