The Lisa Wexler Show

Comptroller Sean Scanlon joins Lisa Wexler to discuss Connecticut’s budget surplus and the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce its pension debt. He also offers insight into Josh Elliott’s 25% showing at the Democratic convention, and weighs in on the ongoing debate surrounding state health insurance policy and coverage options.

Mark Shanahan, Artistic Director of Westport Country Playhouse, joins Lisa Wexler to preview the theater’s exciting 2026–27 season. He discusses his new stage adaptation of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, developed in partnership with the Agatha Christie estate, running July 14 through August 1, along with two upcoming world premieres and what audiences can expect from the season ahead.

Michael Goldstein joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his candidacy as the Republican nominee for Connecticut’s 4th Congressional District. He shares what drives his commitment to public service, the key issues shaping his campaign, and the possibility of a primary challenge as the race develops.

Danielle Chesebrough, Statewide Coordinator for Forward CT, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the Forward Party and its growing presence in Connecticut. She explains the party’s mission to strengthen the democratic process, expand political participation, and give a voice to the large percentage of voters who feel unrepresented. The conversation explores proposed reforms such as open primaries, ranked-choice voting, and the idea of a statewide citizen assembly. Chesebrough also discusses how Forward CT aims to collaborate with other parties, including the Independent party, to create a more functional and responsive political system.

Sam Nestor, current First Selectwoman of Weston, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss her candidacy as the endorsed Democratic nominee for Connecticut’s 26th State Senate District. Nestor shares why she’s running, the priorities she hopes to bring to Hartford, and how her experience in local government has shaped her approach to leadership and public service.

Julie Stuart, Executive Director of the Bridgewater Land Trust, joins Lisa Wexler to talk about the 2026 CT Farm Crawl, an event open to the public that invites visitors to explore seven local farms and experience Connecticut agriculture up close. She also shares her family’s 100-year farming legacy in Litchfield County, and discusses the importance of preserving farmland and supporting the region’s agricultural future.

Veteran stage and screen actor Michael Tucker joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his evolution from acting to writing, with a focus on playwriting. He shares the inspiration behind his comedy A Tailor Near Me, which is being presented at Westport Country Playhouse as part of its Script in Hand series, and reflects on storytelling, humor, and finding a new creative voice later in his career.

Peter Propp, founding member of StartUp Westport, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the launch of PITCH ’26, a startup competition offering $30,000 in total funding, including a $25,000 grand prize. They break down how the program supports early-stage companies through mentorship, coaching, and a “Shark Tank”-style finale, and what makes this opportunity a game-changer for Connecticut entrepreneurs.

The founder and president of Jane Doe No More joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the organization’s mission to empower survivors of sexual crimes to find their voice, support their healing, and educate communities. They also talk about their participation in the Birdies for Charity campaign and how it helps raise critical funds to expand their programs and outreach.