Episode 184 with Felix Grucci Jr., Former U.S. Congressman for New York’s 1st Congressional District

Today on the podcast we’re joined by Felix Grucci Jr., former U.S. Congressman for New York’s 1st Congressional District. A lifelong Long Islander and fifth-generation member of the famed Grucci family, Felix grew up in a world of color, light, and precision, at the helm of one of America’s most celebrated family businesses, Fireworks by Grucci. Under his leadership, the company produced landmark displays for presidential inaugurations, Olympic Games, and countless national celebrations, carrying the family tradition to a global stage.Before his election to Congress, Felix served as Brookhaven Town Supervisor, where he brought his business experience to local government. In Washington, he represented Suffolk County during a particularly turbulent period following September 11, working on behalf of a region deeply affected by national and economic change.In this conversation, we talk about the origins of his family’s remarkable business, his transition from the private to the public sector, the challenges and rewards of leadership in both worlds, and his reflections on how Suffolk County has evolved and where it’s headed next.