668KTV: Local Issues

This Connecticut Village Has Barely Changed in 300 Years — And That’s the Point

A Connecticut village frozen in time for 300 years reveals the deliberate choices behind preservation. Stonington's commitment to maintaining its historic character shows how one CT community is resisting modern development—and thriving because of it.
Bill Middleton — First Selectman of Stonington — joins Cate Steel to discuss how this Connecticut village has preserved its identity and what that means for its future.
• Learn why Stonington's historic preservation strategy sets it apart from other Connecticut communities
• Discover the balance between honoring 300 years of history and meeting modern community needs
• Understand how intentional stewardship protects a CT village's character and appeal
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:00] Coming soon — full chapter breakdown available on YouTube
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction
[00:39] Meet Bill Middleton (Guest Intro)
[01:00] What is Stonington, & Where is It?
[01:23] Relationship Between Stonington & Mystic
[02:13] Mystic Aquarium & Seaport Explained
[02:30] Top Attractions in Stonington
[02:48] Dubois Beach & Scenic Views
[03:27] Best Restaurants in Stonington
[03:51] Stonington Lighthouse Museum & History
[04:13] British Invasions & War History
[04:55] Lobster Trap Christmas Tree Tradition
[05:25] Velvet Mill & Local Business Hub
[06:14] History of Velvet Manufacturing
[06:36] Preserving Local Heritage
[07:05] Yellow Farmhouse & Agriculture
[07:49] Antique Shops & Local Finds
[08:15] Breweries & Distilleries in Stonington
[09:02] Growing Local Businesses & Economy
[09:25] Vineyards & Wine Trail
[09:44] Boat Tours, Sailing & Activities
[10:04] Life as First Selectman
[10:28] Community Engagement & Local Government
[11:11] Public Meetings & Transparency
[11:48] Social Media & Modern Communication
[12:20] Voter Turnout & Civic Participation
[13:07] Mystic Seaport & Exhibits
[13:59] New Boating Center Development
[14:26] Tourism Beyond Summer
[15:10] Best Time to Visit Stonington
[16:23] Local Development & Infrastructure
[17:04] Transportation & Bike Path Plans
[17:27] Moving to Connecticut & Governance
[18:30] Regional Collaboration & Resources
[20:19] Public Services & Local Systems
[21:15] Budget & Town Planning
[22:18] Growth & Housing Development
[23:11] Open Space & Environmental Focus
[24:06] Tourism vs Quality of Life
[24:29] Final Thoughts & Closing
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #HistoricPreservation #StoningtonCT

She’s Unlocked the Secret to a Long Life — Here’s What She Told Us

What's the secret to living a long, fulfilling life in Connecticut? We talked to a centenarian who's cracked the code—and her wisdom might surprise you.
Florence Robinson — shares her secrets to longevity and living well with Cate Steel. Listeners will discover:
• The everyday habits and mindset shifts that contribute to a long, healthy life
• How community connections and relationships fuel wellbeing across decades
• The personal philosophy behind aging gracefully in Connecticut
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #Longevity #CommunityWellness

How Habitat for Humanity Turns Volunteers Into Homebuilders — One Family at a Time

Habitat for Humanity transforms volunteers into homebuilders across Eastern Connecticut, creating affordable housing and lasting community change. Discover how sweat equity and partnership build hope—one family at a time.
MaryLou Gannotti — Habitat for Humanity — joins Cate Steel to discuss how affordable housing initiatives strengthen Connecticut communities through volunteer-driven construction and homeownership opportunity.
• Learn what "sweat equity" means and how it empowers families to build their own homes while gaining skills and stability
• Explore volunteer opportunities available to Connecticut residents who want to directly impact affordable housing in their region
• Understand the ripple effects of homeownership on family wellbeing, community investment, and long-term economic security
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:45] What is Habitat for Humanity doing in Eastern Connecticut
[03:20] Understanding sweat equity and homeownership
[06:15] How to volunteer and get involved
[09:30] Impact stories from Connecticut families
[12:00] Closing remarks
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Intro
[01:01] Habitat's founding and core values
[02:29] Who are Millard and Linda Fuller
[04:16] How homes are sold to families
[05:20] Homeownership readiness workshops
[08:22] Volunteer opportunities and impact
[10:15] Homeowner readiness resource fair
[12:27] ReStore locations and inventory
[14:24] ReStore benefits and affordability
[16:00] Homeowner success story with T
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #AffordableHousingCT #VolunteerCT

The Black Student Who Integrated New England’s Schools in 1832 — This Connecticut Historian Says

Connecticut's hidden history of school integration began with one Black student in 1832—and a CT historian is revealing the untold story. Dr. Jennifer Rycenga joins Cate Steel to uncover how early education activism shaped New England and challenge everything we thought we knew about civil rights in Connecticut.
Dr. Jennifer Rycenga — Historian — joins Cate Steel to discuss the pioneering Black student who integrated New England schools and Connecticut's role in education history.
• Learn the compelling true story behind school integration that predates the modern civil rights movement
• Discover how one Connecticut community's educational choices rippled across New England
• Understand why this pivotal moment in CT history has been overlooked for nearly two centuries
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:45] The untold story of 1832
[05:20] Dr. Rycenga's research and Schooling the Nation
[12:15] Connecticut's role in education integration
[18:30] Why this history matters today
[22:00] Closing thoughts
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] – Introduction & Guest Welcome
[00:48] – Meet Dr. Jennifer Rycenga & “Schooling the Nation”
[01:34] – Who Are Sarah Harris & Mary Harris?
[01:51] – First Black Student Admitted (1832 Story Begins)
[02:15] – How the Idea Started Between Women
[02:37] – What Were Early Women’s Academies Like?
[03:17] – Education vs Marriage Expectations
[04:07] – Quaker Education Influence
[04:49] – Mariah Davis & Abolition Influence
[05:37] – Sarah Harris Requests Admission
[06:32] – Biblical Moment That Changed Everything
[07:16] – Lifelong Friendship Across Racial Lines
[08:01] – Opening the School for Black Women
[08:43] – Backlash from White Families
[09:42] – Parents Protest & Social Pressure
[10:02] – Creating a School for Black Girls
[10:21] – Support from William Lloyd Garrison
[10:42] – Students Arrive from Across Regions
[11:39] – Black Community Growth & Opportunities
[12:27] – First Black Female Academy Impact
[13:08] – Age Range & Student Life
[13:45] – Community Reaction & Resistance Begins
[14:07] – Attacks on the School (Violence & Harassment)
[14:40] – Protecting Student Identities
[15:44] – Legal Battles Begin (Connecticut Black Law)
[16:37] – Law Against Educating Black Students
[17:02] – Allies Who Supported the School
[17:46] – The Burleigh Family’s Role
[18:55] – Expanding Support & Media Influence
[19:39] – Newspaper & Public Awareness Strategy
[20:38] – Anti-Racism Legacy & Impact
[21:28] – Education as Long-Term Change
[21:56] – Arrest of Prudence Crandall
[22:23] – Jail Story & Continued Activism
[23:24] – Court Trials & Legal Impact
[24:21] – Students Testify in Court
[24:51] – Jury Decision & Turning Point
[25:14] – Fire Incident & False Accusation
[26:00] – Court Victory & Justice
[26:45] – School’s Lasting Impact
[27:08] – Beyond “White Savior” Narrative
[27:26] – Students’ Achievements & Legacy
[28:10] – Generational Success Stories
[29:07] – Olympic & Cultural Legacy Connections
[29:50] – Final Thoughts on “Schooling the Nation”
[30:20] – Where to Learn More (Website & Book)
[30:58] – Inspiration Behind the Research
[31:22] – Closing Remarks & Tribute
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #SchoolIntegrationHistory #CTLocalJournalism

How Ergonomic Viola Design Prevents Injury — David Rivinus

Ergonomic viola design is preventing injury for Connecticut musicians and string players nationwide. David Rivinus, inventor and viola innovator, joins Cate Steel to discuss how thoughtful instrument design protects musicians' bodies and transforms the playing experience for string musicians across CT communities and beyond.
David Rivinus — Viola Inventor and Designer — joins Cate Steel to discuss ergonomic viola design and injury prevention for musicians.
• Learn how ergonomic design innovations are reducing repetitive strain injuries in string musicians
• Discover the story behind Rivinus's revolutionary viola design and its impact on the music community
• Explore how CT-based musicians and music educators are benefiting from advances in instrument ergonomics
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: Join to get CT local stories weekly — coming soon
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:00] Coming soon — full chapter markers available on YouTube
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction – Meet Michael Mannix & His Leadership Journey
[00:25] The Book: The 5 L’s – Gift of a Balanced Life
[00:47] 1st L: Love – Why Self-Love Comes First
[01:20] Importance of Support System & Relationships
[02:20] 2nd L: Laughter – The Power of Positive Thinking
[03:11] Health Benefits of Laughter (Science Explained)
[03:49] 3rd L: Labor – Finding Purpose & Passion in Work
[04:30] Why Purpose Matters More Than Your Job
[05:09] 4th L: Leisure – Rest, Recharge & “Me Time”
[06:03] Surround Yourself with Positive People
[06:17] 5th L: Leave – Knowing When to Let Go & Change
[07:06] Embracing Change & Neuroplasticity Explained
[07:44] Leadership Coaching & Global Experience
[08:24] Book Success Story (Bestseller in 10 Days)
[09:23] Science Behind The 5 L’s Framework
[10:06] Leadership Experience & Teaching Insights
[10:52] Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone
[12:01] Stress, Burnout & Real-Life Health Impact
[12:49] Goal Setting & Personal Growth Plan
[14:27] Importance of Accountability & Self-Assessment
[15:02] Daily Self-Care Question: “What Am I Doing for Me?”
[17:23] Gratitude Practice & Mental Shift
[18:33] Deep Breathing, Meditation & Stress Relief
[20:01] Social Media, Negativity & Mental Health
[21:49] Fear of Failure & Mindset Shift (F.A.I.L Concept)
[24:22] Where to Find Michael Mannix & His Work
[27:08] Real Story: Stress, Burnout & Life Change
[28:21] Daily Routine for Success & Balance
[28:48] Final Advice: Self-Love is the Foundation
[30:10] Closing Thoughts & Outro
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #ViolaDesign #MusiciansHealth

The Framework Top Leaders Use to Stay Grounded

Connecticut leaders reveal the frameworks that keep them grounded amid rapid change. Discover the mental and strategic practices top CT community changemakers rely on to stay centered while driving local impact.
David Rivinus — Viola Designer & Community Leader — joins Cate Steel to discuss the frameworks that help Connecticut's leaders navigate complex challenges while staying true to their mission.
• Learn the practical frameworks top CT leaders use to maintain focus and perspective during community work
• Understand how grounding practices support decision-making and resilience in changemaking
• Discover what keeps Connecticut changemakers centered and mission-driven during times of rapid change
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:00] Discussion begins
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction – Meet Michael Mannix & His Leadership Journey
[00:25] The Book: The 5 L’s – Gift of a Balanced Life
[00:47] 1st L: Love – Why Self-Love Comes First
[01:20] Importance of Support System & Relationships
[02:20] 2nd L: Laughter – The Power of Positive Thinking
[03:11] Health Benefits of Laughter (Science Explained)
[03:49] 3rd L: Labor – Finding Purpose & Passion in Work
[04:30] Why Purpose Matters More Than Your Job
[05:09] 4th L: Leisure – Rest, Recharge & “Me Time”
[06:03] Surround Yourself with Positive People
[06:17] 5th L: Leave – Knowing When to Let Go & Change
[07:06] Embracing Change & Neuroplasticity Explained
[07:44] Leadership Coaching & Global Experience
[08:24] Book Success Story (Bestseller in 10 Days)
[09:23] Science Behind The 5 L’s Framework
[10:06] Leadership Experience & Teaching Insights
[10:52] Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone
[12:01] Stress, Burnout & Real-Life Health Impact
[12:49] Goal Setting & Personal Growth Plan
[14:27] Importance of Accountability & Self-Assessment
[15:02] Daily Self-Care Question: “What Am I Doing for Me?”
[17:23] Gratitude Practice & Mental Shift
[18:33] Deep Breathing, Meditation & Stress Relief
[20:01] Social Media, Negativity & Mental Health
[21:49] Fear of Failure & Mindset Shift (F.A.I.L Concept)
[24:22] Where to Find Michael Mannix & His Work
[27:08] Real Story: Stress, Burnout & Life Change
[28:21] Daily Routine for Success & Balance
[28:48] Final Advice: Self-Love is the Foundation
[30:10] Closing Thoughts & Outro
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #CommunityLeadership #MindfulChangemaking

How to Survive a Brewery Crisis — Gratitude Brewing’s Story

Connecticut breweries face real challenges—and Gratitude Brewing's crisis story reveals how one CT business survived unexpected hardship and built resilience in the craft beer community.
Tristan Cooley — Co-Owner, Gratitude Brewing — joins Cate Steel to discuss navigating brewery crises and keeping a Connecticut craft business afloat.
• Learn what went wrong at Gratitude Brewing and how the team pivoted to survive
• Discover the role community support played in the brewery's recovery
• Understand the broader challenges facing Connecticut's craft beverage entrepreneurs
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #CraftBrewing #SmallBusinessCT

College Dropout to Heavyweight Boxer — Cassius Chaney

Connecticut heavyweight boxer Cassius Chaney transforms his life through the ring, turning a college dropout journey into a powerful comeback story that inspires CT communities.
Cassius Chaney — Professional Boxer — joins Cate Steel to discuss his remarkable path from leaving college to becoming a heavyweight champion in the ring.
• Discover how boxing became the catalyst for Cassius's personal transformation and second chances
• Learn what drives a young athlete to chase professional boxing in Connecticut and beyond
• Understand the mentorship, discipline, and community support that shaped his heavyweight career
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] – Introduction & Guest Welcome
[00:35] – Meet Cassius Chaney (Heavyweight Boxer)
[01:07] – First Impression & Career Background
[01:48] – Moving from Baltimore to Connecticut
[02:38] – Family Life & Middle Child Struggles
[03:24] – School Change That Transformed His Life
[04:29] – Basketball Journey & State Championship
[05:14] – Athletic Family & Finding Your Own Path
[06:32] – Early Life: Basketball & College Fights
[07:42] – Inspired by Muhammad Ali
[08:21] – Transition from Basketball to Boxing
[08:46] – First Fights & Winning Golden Gloves
[09:41] – NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) Explained
[10:34] – Boxing Training Routine & Jump Rope Importance
[12:27] – Coaching, Mentorship & Giving Back
[12:46] – Rise of Women in Boxing
[13:31] – Getting Into Boxing (Manager/Promoter Path)
[15:17] – Why Boxing Is the Hardest Sport
[16:36] – Mental Toughness & “Dark Place” Training
[17:56] – No Team in Boxing: Lone Fighter Reality
[19:14] – Championship Belts & Career Highlights
[19:58] – Experience with Don King Promotions
[20:25] – Lessons from the Boxing Business
[20:50] – Biggest Inspiration: His Grandmother
[22:03] – Advice for the Next Generation
[23:04] – Mindset: Never Give Up & Trust Your Gut
[23:23] – Upcoming Fight & Where to Follow
[24:01] – Closing Thoughts & Final Message
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #BoxingCommunity #SecondChances

He’s Built Homes Across 3 Continents — Here’s What It Actually Takes

Connecticut's affordable housing crisis needs builders with global experience—and one humanitarian constructor is bringing proven strategies from three continents to reshape how CT communities approach development.
Andy — Humanitarian Builder & Construction Expert — joins Cate Steel to discuss international home-building missions and what Connecticut communities can learn from global construction solutions.
• How 23+ international building projects shaped a practical approach to affordable housing that works in any economy
• The construction methods and community strategies proven effective across different climates and developing markets
• Why Connecticut needs to adopt lessons from successful housing models around the world to solve its affordable housing shortage
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: Join to get CT local stories weekly — [coming soon]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
[00:45] Andy's humanitarian building journey across three continents
[08:20] 23+ international projects and lessons for Connecticut
[16:15] Affordable housing strategies that work in any economy
[24:30] Construction methods proven in developing markets
[32:10] Why CT communities should adopt global housing models
[38:45] Closing thoughts and resources
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction – Cate Steel welcomes Andy
[00:43] How Cate first met Andy & discovering his humanitarian building work
[01:19] Andy’s nonprofit involvement – JJ Joy Foundation, Habitat for Humanity & others
[02:14] Andy’s first humanitarian build after 9/11 in Oaxaca, Mexico
[03:11] Why replacing dirt floors with concrete floors improves health for families
[03:58] Building safer homes in Cambodia – protection from floods and animals
[05:05] Real challenges during builds – wildlife and construction risks
[05:53] What a “build mission” actually involves
[06:17] How many global builds Andre has completed (23 international missions)
[07:01] The preparation process for volunteer teams
[08:26] Recruiting volunteers and organizing international travel
[09:24] Preparing teams for overseas humanitarian missions
[09:51] Balancing construction work with cultural experiences
[12:07] Team motivation and why volunteers are highly committed
[14:03] A powerful story from Puerto Rico after hurricane recovery
[15:56] Installing a toilet that changed a family’s life
[17:25] Perspective: appreciating everyday comforts in developed countries
[18:44] Photo showcase – humanitarian builds around the world
[19:08] Building a home in a swamp in Malaysia (Borneo)
[20:18] Mass housing project in the Philippines
[21:08] Insulating homes in Siberia, Russia
[23:14] Construction project in India near Bangalore
[25:20] Making concrete blocks during builds in Ghana
[26:28] Volunteer team member story from Romania
[26:55] Building foundations for homes in Peru
[27:23] Learning different construction methods across cultures
[28:29] Travel experiences and cultural exploration during missions
[30:25] Visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia
[31:42] Cambodian cooking class experience
[32:16] Hero rats detecting landmines in Cambodia (APOPO project)
[33:22] Traveling and volunteering with Andy’s daughter and son-in-law
[35:12] Medical support on build teams – story from India
[36:32] Final reflections on humanitarian work and teamwork
[37:14] Closing remarks and thanks
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #AffordableHousingCT #HumanitarianConstruction

She’s Completed 53 Service Trips Around the World — Here’s What Drove Her

A Connecticut native has completed 53 service trips around the world — and her mission is reshaping how CT communities think about global impact. Discover what drives her dedication to service and how local Connecticut residents are getting involved.
Tricia Vos — Founder and Director, JJ Joy Foundation — joins Cate Steel to discuss her global service journey and the Connecticut roots behind her foundation.
• Learn what inspired 53 international service trips and how a Connecticut-based foundation is making worldwide impact
• Understand how local CT residents can participate in meaningful service work across the globe
• Explore the connection between personal mission and community action in Connecticut
🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get podcasts.
📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📧 Newsletter: [coming soon — join to get CT local stories weekly]
Timestamps:
[00:00] Intro
🌐 https://catesteel.com
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@668KTV
📍 Connecticut
Chapters:
[00:00] Introduction – Cate Steel Welcomes Tricia Vos
[00:32] Founding the JJ Joy Foundation
[01:11] How Many Global Builds Has She Led?
[01:52] 53 Humanitarian Trips Since 2012
[02:14] Building Across Africa, Asia, Europe & The Americas
[02:56] What Is a “Build” Trip?
[03:39] Building Homes for Families in Poverty
[04:01] Malawi Story – Sleeping Standing Up During Rainstorms
[05:23] Cambodia Builds & Rebuilding Safer Homes
[06:28] The Power of Community on Volunteer Trips
[07:47] How Tricia Started Volunteer Work (Volunteer Kenya)
[09:19] Do You Need Construction Skills to Join a Build?
[11:09] The Service Mindset & Personal Transformation
[12:13] Charles’ Story – Contributing Beyond Physical Labor
[14:36] Cultural Barriers & Meeting a White Person for the First Time (Kenya)
[16:48] Perspective Shift – What Are We Really Worrying About?
[17:21] The Shoe Story – “The Best Shoes I’ve Ever Had”
[19:27] Food Experiences Abroad – Eating Crickets & Local Culture
[20:31] JJ Joy Foundation Projects Overview
[20:52] Cambodia Housing Program (Homes, Toilets, Solar, Wells)
[21:10] Nepal Mobile Medical Camps & Permanent Clinic
[22:18] Malawi Nutrition Program (11 Acres of Corn & Poultry Farm)
[23:28] Rwanda Literacy & Community Center Build
[24:47] How to Get Involved – Website & Volunteering
[26:22] It’s Not Just Work – Culture, Travel & Connection
[27:55] Final Thoughts – Why Service Travel Changes You
[28:18] Closing Remarks
#ConnecticutPodcast #LocalIssuesCT #CTCommunity #ServiceWork #GlobalImpact