Brian & Company

Brian Shactman discusses with Frank Zapski, a pizza expert from the New Haven Pizza School, about the unique New Haven style pizza. Zapski, who started making pizza at 12 and later ran a pizza truck, now teaches pizza-making through his school, which has had over 5,000 students. He plans to start a University of New Haven Pizza to offer more affordable classes, including a three-day intensive cour...

Brian Shactman and David Lightman from the National Journal discussed several key issues, including Bill Clinton's upcoming testimony, the ongoing tensions with Iran, and the potential for regime change. They debated the credibility of Clinton's statements and the implications of Iran's military presence. The conversation also touched on the Pentagon's concerns about AI misuse in war games and the...

The conversation discusses Connecticut's land acquisition goals, aiming to protect 21% of the state's land as open space, a target set in the late 90s. Lindsay Suhr, Director of Land Management at DEEP, explains the state's efforts, including regular property acquisitions and grants that have protected between 2,000 and 5,000 acres annually, totaling $14-15 million. The state's reporting is based...

Connecticut's homelessness crisis was discussed with Sarah Fox, CEO of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness. Fox highlighted that over 6,000 people experience homelessness annually, with more than 8,000 over a year. Key causes include affordability issues, with 30% of shelter residents exceeding their income and 22% living doubled up. The coalition's legislative agenda seeks $123.9 millio...

Brian Shactman discusses the maple syrup industry with Rob Lamothe from Lamothe Sugar House in Burlington, highlighting the misconception that maple syrup is only produced in Vermont. Rob explains the optimal conditions for sap flow and the process of making syrup, noting a 43:1 sap-to-syrup ratio and the use of reverse osmosis to reduce water content. He details advancements in technology, such a...

Sen. Stephen Harding responds to Speaker Ritter on bill proposals.

Brian Shactman and Seth Bahler from Oak Ridge Dairy in Ellington discussed the challenges faced by Connecticut dairy farmers. Since 2005, the state has lost over half of its dairy farms. Baylor highlighted that milk prices dropped 25% from 2025 to 2026, costing his farm $500,000 monthly. He advocated for $20 million in funding and a refundable tax credit similar to Massachusetts' program to suppor...

Michael Shea, Executive Director & CEO, Connecticut Airport Authority. Talks BDL update, expansion. Flight in and out. How the winter season has been, heading into spring and summer travel season.

Dr. Amy Chai, a Republican candidate for Connecticut's first congressional district, discussed her campaign and political views. She highlighted her transition from Libertarian to Republican, influenced by her conversations with Vivek Ramasami. Chai emphasized her commitment to transparency, particularly through her Financial Transparency Act, which aims to reduce government fraud by creating a se...

Erik Semmel from TAB Computer discussed the severe shortage of hard drives due to increased demand from AI and data centers, affecting small to mid-sized businesses. A hard drive that cost $400 last year now sells for $1,000. Additionally, three Silicon Valley engineers were arrested for sending trade secrets to Iran. Erik highlighted that 40% of AI use involves sensitive data, posing security ris...

Josh Morgan from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) discussed the recent storm response, highlighting the efforts of crews who worked through the night to clear highways by late afternoon. Crews cycled in and out to ensure continuous operations. Mr. Morgan mentioned potential weather systems that could bring 1-3 inches of snow, prompting strategic deployments. The ban on commercial...

Greg Bordanaro, Editor Hartford Business Journal. Potential impact to CT's banking industry of the big Webster-Santander deal, new potential regulations for data center development, and my take on Lamont's CT Option.

Anthony Ireland, CEO Greater Waterbury YMCA

Gov. Ned Lamont updates on state plans and safety during the latest winter storm.

Rep Steve Weir, 55th district, Labor and Housing Committee. Legislative session, storm cleanup and how it may affect a short session.

Jill Schlesinger, CFP® CBS News Business Analyst takes an early look at the week market and financial look in lieu of the storm and tarif news

The Great David Lightman joins us to tell us the latest from Washington DC ahead of President Trump's State of the Union Address next week.

CT DOT Communications Director Josh Morgan talks about Road and Highway safety.

President and CEO of The Connecticut Restaurant and Hospitality Association Scott Dolch will be on hand for the Rebellion Event at Foxwoods. He talks about how the industry is going so far this year.

Chairman for the CT Republicans Ben Proto joins us to discuss the state of the Republican party in the State of Connecticut and the upcoming election for Governor. Is this the time Republicans win?

The Courant's Chris Keating joins us to discuss the upcoming political races including a crowded 1st District Race. Also, Erin Stewart put out her first Ads in her hopes to defeat Governor Ned Lamont.

CABE Executive Director Patrice McCarthy and Board President Meg Scata join us in studio to discuss their agenda in the legislative session.

New London Day Sports Columnist Mike DiMauro calls in to discuss Dan Hurley's call out of fans at Gampel pavilion during UConn games.

Chris Mattei of Koskoff, Koskoff and Bieder joins us to discuss ICE and the Department of Homeland Security.