Shows
Brian & CompanyA Long Drive to The Holiday StoreOzzie Palomo from Chartwell Strategy drove up to the Holiday store to make a donation and talk to long-time friend Brian Shactman.
2025-12-2210 minBrian & CompanyWe Need More Power!Brian Shactman and Christopher Keating discussed the challenges of energy prices in Connecticut, with a focus on the nuclear option proposed by Governor Ned Lamont. Lamont is exploring small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs) due to their faster construction times compared to traditional nuclear plants. However, the process is complex and lengthy, with significant regulatory hurdles and public feedback required. Additionally, Keating highlighted the impending staffing crisis in the Connecticut State Police, with 174 troopers eligible to retire by 2027, posing a significant loss of experience and expertise.
2025-12-1508 minBrian & CompanyIt's Game Day (Sort of)Brian Shactman interviews Connor Geary, also known as Game Day Connor, about his experiences in the sports media industry. Connor discusses his roles with various teams, including the Yard Goats, Connecticut Sun, UConn, and now the New England Patriots. He highlights the challenges of each job, noting that the Connecticut Sun program is the most demanding due to its high physical and on-camera activity. Connor also mentions his work with Connecticut's indoor soccer team and the Basketball Hall of Fame. He shares anecdotes about meeting notable figures like Travis Scott and Vince Wilfork at Patriots games. Brian and Connor also...
2025-12-1508 minBrian & CompanyNew Show, Familiar Face and VoiceBrian Shactman and Morgan Cunningham discuss Morgan's new radio show schedule. Morgan's Saturday afternoon show, "Spotlight Connecticut," will move to Saturday mornings at 11 AM starting January 3 to avoid preemptions. Additionally, Morgan will host a new talk show on Saturday nights from 9 PM to midnight, titled "Nighttime Neighbors," targeting insomniacs, shift workers, and others active at night. The new show aims to fill a niche, as only six out of the top 75 markets have live Saturday night programming. Morgan will handle all aspects of production and plans to cover topics like creativity and independence, with potential for call-ins in the future.
2025-12-1507 minBrian & CompanyLabor Market Slowdown: Young Grads Feel the SqueezeBrian Shactman and Jill Schlesinger discussed the upcoming economic data releases, including jobs numbers for November and the CPI report. Schlesinger noted that the labor market is in a "low, higher, low fire market" with minimal hiring and firing, except in certain industries. She highlighted that the economy is growing due to increased spending on AI and wealthier Americans, but job creation has slowed significantly, with only 76,000 jobs created through September 2024. Schlesinger emphasized the challenges faced by young college graduates in finding jobs, advising them to focus on adaptability and skills rather than specialization.
2025-12-1508 min
Project '90Francois NguyenBrian Shactman snags the mic back for an episode to talk to his former dormmate, Francois Nguyen, who actually has the status of a one-name classmate. Francois. Cois. Talented. Stylish. And oh, so engaging. His journey -- whether it be to Exeter or to the music industry or to industrial design -- is as captivating, dynamic and authentic as anyone we know. Please listen, enjoy and share. Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-11-2453 minBrian & CompanyWashington D.C. Heads into The Holiday AlsoBrian Shactman and David Lightman from McClatchy discussed the political implications of Trump's actions regarding the Epstein case. Lightman suggested that Trump's decision to release information might be due to a lack of votes to block the legislation in the House or Senate. They also touched on the potential impact of Trump's demands for investigations into Democrats, which could delay document releases. Lightman noted that some Republicans, like Marjorie Taylor Greene, are resisting Trump's influence, indicating a shift in party dynamics. They also discussed the upcoming meeting between Trump and Mamdani, predicting a cordial but potentially contentious discussion. Finally, they...
2025-11-2107 minBrian & CompanyGreat Local Family and Great Local FoodBrian Shactman visited Frida's at 151 Lewis Avenue in Meriden, Connecticut, to celebrate its sixth anniversary. Magdalena Alberto and her son George Rendon discussed the business's success, including a $55 million artwork sale in New York. Magdalena shared that the anniversary cake was brought from New York. Brian praised the authentic Mexican breakfast served, including chilaquiles and empanadas. George, helps out at Frida's on weekends.
2025-11-2105 minBrian & CompanyMeriden Mayor, Started Young and Continues to Stick AroundBrian Shactman and Mayor Kevin Scarpati discuss the vibrant Mexican restaurant Frida's in Meriden, which is celebrating its sixth anniversary. Scarpati, who has been mayor for ten years, shares his journey from serving on the Board of Education at 20 to becoming the city's youngest mayor at 26. He emphasizes his commitment to education, infrastructure investments, and community service. Scarpati highlights the city's challenges, including special education funding and affordable housing. He also mentions the upcoming Silver Lights event in Hubbard Park and a food drive to support local food pantries. The conversation underscores Scarpati's dedication to Meriden's growth and community engagement.
2025-11-2109 minBrian & CompanyCommunity Support From The Elks Lodge #35Brian Shactman discusses Matt's annual fundraiser for autism at the Elks Club, which has raised thousands. Michelle and Keith Stocking, members of the Elks, explain its fraternal and charitable nature, including scholarships, veteran support, and community projects like a food drive for the Meriden soup kitchen. The Elks Club, established in 1914, is the 35th in the U.S. and has over 2,000 lodges. They highlight upcoming events, such as a Hoop Shoot contest for children aged 8-13, and emphasize the community's acceptance and support. Michelle recently received a lifetime honorary membership for her contributions.
2025-11-2108 minBrian & CompanyMeriden Arts and Classroom Education is ConnectedBrian Shactman, Brian Cyr, and Dan Gafney discuss the importance of arts education in Meriden public schools. Brian Cyr, the fine arts coordinator, oversees music, theater, and visual arts across eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools, involving nearly 40 staff members. Despite budget cuts, the arts programs thrive, with notable achievements such as top positions in the state competitive marching circuit and upcoming district-wide art exhibits. They emphasize the value of arts in fostering well-rounded students, reducing chronic absenteeism, and promoting community engagement. Both teachers, with long tenures in Meriden, highlight the diverse, supportive environment and the...
2025-11-2108 minBrian & CompanyA Lesson on Meriden History, From Hubbard Park to Arts and ArtisansBrian Shactman interviews Justin Piccirillo, a middle school art teacher and author of "The Hidden History of Meriden," published on November 4. Piccirillo discusses his passion for Meriden's history, including its role as a potential state capital and its nickname, "Silver City." He highlights lesser-known stories, such as the Yankee peddler Ash Bill Griswold and Meriden's significant contributions during World War II, including blackout paint and dog tags. Piccirillo also mentions his journey from political cartoonist to author, driven by his love for Meriden's history and legacy. The book is available on Amazon.
2025-11-2108 minBrian & CompanyGovernment has re-opened. But at What Cost?Brian Shactman and David Lightman discussed the recent government shutdown, noting that while Democrats secured funding for SNAP, the military, and job guarantees for furloughed workers, they failed to extend healthcare benefits. Republicans, criticized for inefficiency, may pass subsidy extensions in the Senate but face uncertainty in the House. Lightman highlighted the split within the Republican Party over releasing the Epstein report, with conservatives pushing for transparency. Both parties face internal strife, with Democrats lacking a central leader post-Trump. The conversation also touched on the challenges of passing annual budgets and the ongoing political dynamics.
2025-11-1408 minBrian & Company"Shaping Connecticut's Future"Brian Shactman hosts a discussion with Bryn Tindall, CEO of Rebellion Group, and BJ Kito, its President and Chief Strategic Officer, about the company's efforts to change Connecticut's perception and boost economic growth. Rebellion Group, based in Cheshire, focuses on marketing, technology, and strategy, working with businesses at various stages. They aim to unify the state's narrative and attract talent by addressing issues like economic development and employee retention. The initiative includes events like the upcoming "Shaping Connecticut's Future" on November 19 in Stanford, which will feature AI-driven networking and discussions on topics like AI, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. The goal is...
2025-11-1417 minBrian & CompanyInside Looking Out of Special SessionBrian Shactman and Chris VanDeHoef discussed various topics, including Brian's frustration with his fantasy football team featuring Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. They also recounted their experiences at the CBIA annual meeting, noting the large attendance and Ryan Leaf's presence. Chris shared insights on the Connecticut legislature, highlighting the bipartisan support for a $500 million fund and the collaborative efforts between the minority and majority parties. They also touched on the challenges of volunteerism, the impact of the pandemic on food distribution, and the importance of community involvement. Lastly, they discussed the upcoming NFL games, with Chris predicting wins for the...
2025-11-1334 minProject '90Sandro NivolaOur class movie star, Alessandro Nivola, talks about his Exeter experience, building a career in theater/film, balancing work and family with wife Emily Mortimer, and watching his son Sam follow in his footsteps. Hear what Sandro and Kakki Reynolds Lewis took from the 35th reunion and hope for in the 40th! Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-11-0457 minProject '90Rayenne ChenRayenne gets personal about the unexpected turns in her life: Divorce, her daughter's childhood cancer diagnosis, a rocky start to her real estate career. She and Kakki Reynolds Lewis -- Exeter roommates senior year until their friendship breakup -- talk about resilience and living a purpose-filled life.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-09-2446 min
Reese On The Radio RundownReese On The Radio On NewsTalk 1080 WTIC 2-6pm ET8/26/25Breaking Down Brian Shactman's MonologueStupidest Thing I've Read Today: Grandfathering is Jim CrowThe Force Feeding Of Chris MurphyBrian Shactman Joins The ShowHollywood News K.I.T.T. Gets A Movie
2025-08-272h 30
The Back 9 - Midlife, Best Life.Talk Show Host Brian Shactman — How to Write Your Own Ending TB9, S9, E12This week on The Back 9, we sit down with our good friend Brian Shactman, the former MSNBC anchor, to talk about navigating the twists and turns of our career paths, the hard pivots that come when you don't get to choose your ending, and the lessons he learned along the way. From way too early mornings in radio to high-profile roles at ESPN, CNBC and MSNBC, Brian shares how he fought through setbacks, protected his family time, and found purpose in creating meaningful conversations. We also dive into what might just be the skill we all need most as...
2025-08-2638 minProject '90Qazi FazalFor Qazi Fazal, acceptance to Exeter meant a winning lottery ticket. He shares with Kakki Reynolds Lewis about the path from his home country of Bangladesh to a satisfying education, investment banking career and the opportunity to live a life of purpose with his family in New York City. Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-06-1743 minProject '90Brian ShactmanHow does a public school kid from a small town north of Boston end up at Exeter, Amherst, and then become a broadcast journalist covering three Olympic Games, the World Cup, the Super Bowl, the World Series and presidential primaries for ESPN, MSNBC, CNBC and more -- only to end up living a stone's throw from another boarding school? Follow the windy road as we turn the tables on Project ' '90 host Brian Shactman.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-06-0539 minProject '90Nick UngerThe ONE class member who still lives on campus! So many surprises to this conversation as Nick was enigmatic to many of us (me). Did he know people viewed him as the smartest kid at Exeter? Yes. But that doesn't mean he liked it ... or did he?Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-04-2936 minProject '90Samuel Dowe-SandesWhat a life! From Vermont to Exeter to Connecticut to Vermont to New York to L.A. to Morocco, Samuel Dowe-Sandes is living an amazing and dynamic life. I did not know him well, but I new him enough to sense his positive energy and self confidence -- still the case. Such a great conversation.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-04-2337 min
The Pre-Made PodcastBrian Shactman Finds His Voice – And Amplifies Voices All Over Connecticut And BeyondBrian Schactman in many ways has become the voice of Connecticut. As a co-host of a morning radio talk show, he travels the state to meet residents of interest and explore the topics that animate the 169 towns and cities that call Connecticut home. Having listened to his stuff, I can tell you that he's awfully good at what he does. Thankfully, streaming makes it possible for anyone to listen to him, so I'll include a link to do just that in the notes below.
Our candid conversation covers his journey from ESPN, through CNBC, MSNBC, and NBC Boston, to his...
2025-04-1458 minProject '90Andre Landau-RemyAndre came from Sao Paulo to PEA for two years. And he was my roommate! An exceedingly thoughtful intellectual, Andre reflects on PEA and life in Brazil (with his 4 sons!). Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-04-1033 min
WTIC Public AffairsAt Home In CT 3-30-25Scott Hamilton, Retired American figure skater talks with Brian Shactman about an event being held at the International Skating Center of CT in Simsbury. The Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer Ice Show will be Saturday, May 3, 2025
2025-03-3011 minProject '90Eileen KaneBrilliant, brave and totally transparent (I couldn't find a third good "B" word to keep the alliteration going.) Could have talked to her for days.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-03-2840 minProject '90John PalfreyWhat can you say about John Palfrey? He runs a multi-billion dollar foundation, was a Harvard dean, as well as school head for the enemy (Andover) and just so happens to be a wonderful guy. It should be annoying -- but it's not! Another amazing conversation, and message to the Exeter board: Give him a call ;-)Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-03-0634 minProject '90Lara HeimertLara sits atop the publishing world, but there is SO MUCH more to her journey than books and a brilliant mind. We delve into her time at Exeter but also do a deep dive into becoming a mom in her 40's and how that impacts life in her 50s.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-02-2031 minProject '90Ira WolfsonPart of the infamous/legendary Main Street crew, Ira has had a tremendous career in banking. But did you know that Exeter was NOT his first choice? What?!?! In his own unique, edgy and humorous way, we learn about his journey to and through Exeter and why he's going to work until they tell him he can't.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2025-01-3032 minProject '90Robert DixonRobert's journey to Exeter is fascinating, and his life experience since is another example of the full range of paths that members of the Class of '90 have taken. It was such a joy to talk more with someone in one day than I had in my full lifetime. Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2024-12-2751 minProject '90Jon NeuhausOur 1989-90 Class President has led quite the life. We catch up with the legendary Newy and learn what he's been up to -- and even teases us about the things he CAN'T tell us. SUCH an enjoyable half hour.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2024-11-1932 minProject '90Belinda TateBelinda Tate leads one of the largest museums in the United States, and her journey is an amazing one -- from North Carolina to Exeter to Yale and beyond. She's a life-long learner with a unique perspective on life at Exeter.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2024-10-1530 min
Project '90Una Jain BasakUna has done so much for Exeter, from class officer all the way to the Board of Trustees. She's also done so much for her family, including her daughter and autistic twin boys. Hear more about her journey and who she nominates for Episode 2.Any and all feedback to bshactman@gmail.com
2024-08-0731 min
WTIC Public AffairsAt Home IN CT 9/12/21Replay of Brian Shactman talking about 9/11 with Gov. John Rowland. They take a look back at that day and also get into where we are as a society.
2021-09-1211 min
Movies with MurrayThe Paper (1994)Brian Shactman is the co-host of Connecticut's WTIC 1080's Mornings with Ray and Brian, and Brian's previous work includes anchoring jobs for MSNBC, NECN, and NBC Boston. Brian joins Andrew on the podcast to discuss his favorite film, Ron Howard's The Paper. Andrew and Brian discuss the movie's great script, authenticity in depicting working at a newspaper, and why YOU should watch it.
2021-05-1153 min
FANBASE: A Deep Dive Into the Greatest Rivalry in Sports#1.5: THE BASEBALL EMERGENCYThe best way to save baseball might be to cancel the season? Yes-if done the right way. Brian Shactman and John Senecal break down the embarrassment of Major League Baseball right now and what's the best way to solve it.
2020-06-1720 min