The Lisa Wexler Show

Journalist, attorney and former Connecticut legislator Kevin Rennie joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the “moral rot” behind the Cornell 7 and the Kosta Diamantis case. Rennie recalls serving with Diamantis, early warnings to “keep away,” and concerns about Diamantis’ trustworthiness that went unheeded, including Rennie’s own warning to Governor Lamont. He also discusses Diamantis’ conviction and subsequent flight ahead of sentencing.

Activist Wayne Winston joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the stakes of the upcoming midterm elections, concerns about unfulfilled promises from the Trump administration, and Connecticut’s local elections, with a focus on Bridgeport, examining ongoing political controversies, and the impact on un-affordability, particularly in housing.

Lisa Wexler reflects on the rare gift of unscheduled time after four years of living minute-to-minute. She explores what it means to slow down, to take an unhurried walk, linger on a phone call with someone she loves, and simply be present. Grounded in her faith, Lisa also opens up about this chapter following her mother’s passing, and how she is learning to sit with grief, stillness, and the quiet space in between.

Lisa Wexler examines a Connecticut law that allows the state to seek reimbursement from incarcerated individuals for the cost of their imprisonment, with no statute of limitations. She explores the implications of a system in which the state can pursue repayment years later, often without individuals fully understanding the law, and how this can affect inheritances and financial support from loved ones.

Former pastor and attorney Elayne Cassara joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the Netflix series Death of a Pastor’s Wife. Drawing on her own experience in ministry, Cassara reflects on her journey from seminary to church leadership and the urgent need for greater accountability within religious institutions. She explores how unchecked authority can enable harmful behavior, including the misuse of power, coercive control, and the marginalization of women, and why stronger oversight is essential to prevent abuse.

Former pastor and attorney Elayne Cassara joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the Netflix series Death of a Pastor’s Wife. Drawing on her own experience in ministry, Cassara reflects on her journey from seminary to church leadership and the urgent need for greater accountability within religious institutions. She explores how unchecked authority can enable harmful behavior, including the misuse of power, coercive control, and the marginalization of women, and why stronger oversight is essential to prevent abuse.

Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass, Financial Times contributing editor, and New York Times opinion writer, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his recent New York Times essay, “Big Tech Fooled America Once. The Second Time’s Not Going So Well.” He explores how the tech industry—particularly AI—has shifted from a nonprofit, public-good mission to a powerful, profit-driven force with world-shaping ambitions, raising new concerns about influence, accountability, and doomsday narratives.

State Representative Tina Courpas joins Lisa Wexler to reflect on her freshman term in office - what she’s most proud of, what she believes still needs improvement, and why she’s running for reelection. She also discusses concerns about the erosion of local control, overspending, and the implications of a legislative supermajority in state government.