668KTV: Local Issues

irvingsteel
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668KTV: Local Issues Connecticut has problems worth talking about. Housing costs are out of control. Main Streets are struggling. Local journalism is shrinking. And most people don't know what's happening in their own backyard. Local Issues covers the stories that actually affect your community — from housing policy and homelessness to downtown revitalization, conservation, and the people driving change across Connecticut. Hosted by the 668KTV team, every episode goes beyond the headlines to give you context, real voices, and actionable insight on the issues shaping where you live. New episodes weekly. Watch the full videos on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@668KTV and subscribe so you never miss a story worth telling.

  1. Apr 30

    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

  2. Apr 16

    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

  3. Apr 5

    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

  4. Apr 2

    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

  5. Mar 30

    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

  6. Mar 27

    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

  7. Mar 22

    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

  8. Mar 20

    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

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About

668KTV: Local Issues Connecticut has problems worth talking about. Housing costs are out of control. Main Streets are struggling. Local journalism is shrinking. And most people don't know what's happening in their own backyard. Local Issues covers the stories that actually affect your community — from housing policy and homelessness to downtown revitalization, conservation, and the people driving change across Connecticut. Hosted by the 668KTV team, every episode goes beyond the headlines to give you context, real voices, and actionable insight on the issues shaping where you live. New episodes weekly. Watch the full videos on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@668KTV and subscribe so you never miss a story worth telling.

Information

  • Creator
    irvingsteel
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    668KTV: Local Issues