The Lisa Wexler Show

Lisa Wexler answers listeners’ questions about property, estate, and tax law, including the gift tax implications of transferring property while reserving a life use. Can children be forced to pay a parent’s debts or healthcare expenses if they are estranged? Does a surviving spouse need to change the deed before selling a property after their spouse passes away? What is a Certificate of No Tax Due, and how can you obtain one? Lisa also explains how to leave digital assets in a will and how heirs can access money held in digital accounts, such as PayPal, after someone dies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Software engineer and Trumbull resident Richard White joins Lisa Wexler to discuss growing concerns over a controversial proposed data center and a proposed Planning & Zoning text amendment that would accommodate the project. Trumbull’s First Selectwoman has described the proposal as a modernization rather than a new entity, while addressing concerns about electrical demand, expansion, noise, and other potential impacts. White and other concerned residents want those commitments codified in a formal legal agreement. The citizen group has launched a petition and expanded the conversation to neighboring communities, while also raising questions about the potential impact on the town’s sanitary sewer system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Senator Richard Blumenthal joins Lisa Wexler to break down the 4 a.m. confirmation of Attorney General Todd Blanche, the push to prevent a government shutdown, and defeating the SAVE Act. The conversation also examines proposed IRS immunity provisions involving the Trump family, the January 6th-related fund, concerns about rising corruption, and the backlash over Flock camera surveillance technology. Plus, a look at new Russia sanctions legislation imposing tariffs and penalties tied to the purchase of Russian oil and gas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Connecticut Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, who represents Norwalk and Darien, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his call for cities and towns to voluntarily pause the installation of new automated license plate reader cameras. Duff explains his concerns about privacy and the use of the technology and his plans to introduce legislation next session to strengthen regulations and protections for Connecticut residents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Todd Giorgi, founder of the Special Needs Senior Dog Sanctuary, joins Lisa Wexler to share the story behind his Connecticut nonprofit, which provides special needs senior dogs with a loving home and compassionate care for the rest of their lives. Todd also discusses the devastating flash flood that destroyed the sanctuary and the urgent fundraising effort underway to rebuild and restore this special place.To support the sanctuary’s recovery, visit the GoFundMe campaign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Israel’s Special Envoy, former Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, and veteran diplomat, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the diplomatic fallout from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s public break with the Trump administration over Gaza—and what it could mean for Israel’s regional and global standing.She also shares personal insights into her upbringing in Gibraltar, where her father, Sir Joshua Abraham Hassan, served as the territory’s first mayor and chief minister, and explains the origins of her Arabic last name. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arborist Douglas Williams joins Lisa Wexler to talk about. the 17th Annual Easton Farm Tour, Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event is free, rain-or-shine,and hosted by Citizens for Easton. The self-guided tour begins at Samuel Staples Elementary School Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen McAlinden, President & CEO of Homes With Hope, joins Lisa Wexler to share how her organization is transforming the fight against homelessness in Connecticut. Since 2020, McAlinden has shifted Homes With Hope from a primarily shelter-based model to one focused on prevention, now serving over 80% of clients before they become homeless—while expanding supportive housing and securing more than $10 million in funding for new developments and critical renovations.Drawing on more than 25 years of leadership in affordable housing, McAlinden discusses what’s really driving housing instability today, why prevention is the key to long-term solutions, and how innovative programs—from rapid re-housing to youth development—are helping individuals and families achieve lasting independence. She also reflects on her personal journey from rural Ireland to social work in the U.S., and how that experience continues to shape her mission to ensure safe, stable housing for all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Activist Wayne Winston joins Lisa Wexler for It’s Not Just Black & White to discuss some of the most pressing issues involving civil rights and public policy in Connecticut. They examine the controversy surrounding Flock camera surveillance, the Haitian deportation crisis, and the impact of ending the disparate impact rule in Connecticut’s K-12 school systems. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Lisa on the Law, Lisa Wexler discusses a major federal court ruling protecting Connecticut's voter registration data, explains the responsibilities of guardians of adults with intellectual disabilities, and answers a listener's question about what happens when someone dies without a will. Learn about probate, intestacy, estate administration, and practical legal guidance for everyday situations.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

State Representative & Education Committee Chair Jennifer Leeper joins Lisa Wexler to discuss Connecticut’s screen policy guidelines, designed to provide best practices for student technology use in schools. They preview an important free webinar featuring Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, author of The Digital Delusion. Dr. Horvath examines how the widespread use of laptops, tablets, and classroom software may be undermining how children learn and develop. Drawing on decades of research, he offers practical tools for families to reassess device use at home, equips educators to rebuild attention-rich learning environments, and helps schools make smarter, evidence-based decisions about technology. In challenging the core assumptions of the EdTech movement, Horvath lays out a clear path to putting people—not programs—back at the center of education.Register for the Zoom webinar on August 12 here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Lisa on the Law, Lisa Wexler explains the legal essentials of aging, including Medicaid planning, why elder law attorneys are crucial for long-term care planning, and the differences between living wills, health care proxies, and powers of attorney. She also answers listener questions about advance directives, Connecticut probate, and estate administration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa Wexler reflects on the extraordinary life and legacy of Nims Purja, the world-renowned mountaineer who tragically died in an avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan. Too young and with so much more to give, Nims inspired millions through his relentless pursuit of what seemed impossible. He joined The Lisa Wexler Show in 2022 following the release of his book Beyond Possible, sharing the mindset and drive that defined his remarkable journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa Wexler breaks down a recent Connecticut Supreme Court decision that allows non-patients to sue a hospital under narrow circumstances. The ruling stems from a tragic case in which a patient, released to his home with access to firearms, killed his girlfriend and himself. The court recognized the claim as negligence extending beyond the patient. Lisa also takes listener questions on key estate planning topics, including the difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts, what a pour-over will is, why people use trusts, costs for a revocable trust, whether trusts make sense when beneficiaries don’t get along, and how to choose the right executor for your will. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Captain Eric Woods of the Westport Police Department joins Lisa Wexler to discuss Westport’s first annual National Night Out, taking place on August 4, 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

STAR 99.9’s Kevin Begley, an everything about pizza expert, joins Lisa Wexler to preview the 2026 Pizza & Brew Fest and share what makes this event a must for pizza lovers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former New York attorney Carl Wistreich discusses his debut novel, My Lethal Obsession, and the true family history that inspired it. He shares the overlooked stories of Holocaust survivors in Soviet labor camps, his unique approach to historical fiction, and why preserving these narratives is more important than ever.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Connecticut gubernatorial candidate Josh Elliott joins the Lisa Wexler Show for an in-depth conversation about his campaign, tax policy, housing affordability, cannabis legalization, gun regulation, and why he believes the state needs a new direction. Plus, a candid discussion on political messaging, public education, and the road to the Democratic primary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Broadcasting icon Joan Lunden discusses her new memoir, Joan, sharing stories from her groundbreaking career at Good Morning America, the challenges women faced in the newsroom, the influence of her remarkable parents, and the bold decisions that shaped her success. She also reflects on motherhood, resilience, healthy aging, and why she believes the second half of life can be the most fulfilling yet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist Dan Haar joins the show to unpack the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes, the alarming rise in scams targeting seniors, and why families should consider creating a code word to protect themselves. He also explains why Connecticut's often-criticized car tax may be more equitable than it appears, offering a fresh perspective on how local tax policy affects communities and homeowners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author and advocate Randye Kaye shares the painful reality of loving an adult son with severe schizophrenia and addiction, including the heartbreaking moment she had to walk past him while he was homeless and in psychosis. Together, she and the host discuss the emotional toll on families, the barriers to involuntary treatment, the challenges of anosognosia, and why mental health systems must better support both patients and their loved ones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investigative reporter Tanya Lukyanova joins Lisa Wexler to discuss her in-depth Free Press investigation into the death of Connecticut dental student Conor Hylton, exploring how alleged breakdowns in a hospital’s tele-ICU system have sparked questions about patient safety, staffing, and accountability in modern healthcare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investigative reporter Alex Simard joins Lisa Wexler to discuss lawsuits accusing Fairfield Public Schools of using aggressive residency investigations, surveillance, and disputed enrollment decisions that families say caused lasting emotional and educational harm. The conversation explores the legal battles, the district's policies, and the broader debate over student residency enforcement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westport Board of Education Chair and Democratic state representative candidate Lee Goldstein joins Lisa Wexler to discuss school funding, education policy, housing and local control, public safety, and the priorities driving her campaign for Connecticut’s 136th District. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin Rennie of the Hartford Courant joins the Lisa Wexler show to discuss his reporting on Josh Elliott's past statements about policing, Elliott's defense of those comments, and why Rennie believes voters should carefully examine candidates' public positions before heading to the polls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westport resident and nurse practitioner Louis D'Onofrio joins Lisa to discuss his concerns about the town's use of Flock license plate reader cameras and the broader debate over privacy, transparency, and government surveillance. The conversation explores how communities can balance effective law enforcement with civil liberties, public oversight, and informed discussion about emerging surveillance technologies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julie Deschamps, founder of Waste Free Greenwich, and Sarah Coccaro, Assistant Director of Environmental Affairs for the Town of Greenwich, join Lisa to discuss how food scrap recycling is reducing waste and making sustainability more accessible. They share how grassroots advocacy, community partnerships, and new 24/7 smart bins are helping residents turn everyday kitchen scraps into a valuable resource for healthier soils and a greener future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WTNH political correspondent Mike Cerulli joins Lisa Wexler to discuss Connecticut's dramatic flash flooding, including the storm damage that reshaped a West Haven beach, before previewing the highly anticipated Democratic gubernatorial primary debate between Governor Ned Lamont and State Rep. Josh Elliott. The conversation explores campaign strategy, generational politics, class-based messaging, and what younger voters are looking for as Connecticut's primary election approaches. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christine Connors, Terry Murphy, and David Friedman share the vision behind Soulful Forest, a nonprofit transforming underused school spaces into immersive wellness sanctuaries that teach children resilience, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and gratitude through nature, music, storytelling, and social-emotional learning. They discuss the pilot launch at Doolittle School in Cheshire, Connecticut, their long-term vision for schools and healthcare settings, and why supporting caregivers is just as important as supporting kids. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News 12 reporter Frank Recchia joins the show to discuss the ongoing search for missing Bridgeport teenager Namaia “Maya” Allman, whose family is urging the public to help locate her after she disappeared in late May. Recchia explains the difference between Silver and Amber Alerts, shares what is known about the investigation, and encourages anyone with information to contact Bridgeport Police. The conversation also turns to Bridgeport’s strong sense of community, recent declines in violent crime, and the city’s evolving future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Governor Ned Lamont joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of Connecticut’s August primary, addressing immigration and family separation, healthcare affordability, prescription drug costs, property and car taxes, electric rates, housing, mental health, cannabis policy, election security, and his vision for a third term. He also answers listener questions, discusses the differences between his campaign and his primary opponent’s, and outlines his priorities for keeping Connecticut affordable, growing the economy, and investing in education and early childhood programs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transition coach and former radio host Michael Sharkey joins the show to discuss why so many people feel called to something more, how fear and identity can keep us stuck, and what it takes to make a thoughtful career or life transition. From entrepreneurship and retirement to redefining purpose, Sharkey shares practical advice, inspiring client success stories, and explains how his coaching program, The Quiet Exit, helps people discover what's next without leaving security behind too soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Connecticut Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the state's legal victory in protecting sensitive voter data from a federal DOJ request, and what to know before casting a ballot in the upcoming August primary—all while urging residents to stay safe as severe storms move across the state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kathy Herron, CNM, founder & director of the Northwell midwifery group at Phelps Hospital, joins Lisa Wexler to share how modern midwifery goes far beyond childbirth, offering comprehensive women's healthcare, personalized pregnancy support, and expert guidance on postpartum recovery and lifelong wellness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Staples High School student Noah Saporta joins Lisa Wexler to talk about taking first place at the FBLA National Conference with his innovative interactive game that teaches financial literacy. Built around a virtual pet alligator, the game helps users learn how to manage money in a fun, engaging way. Saporta shares how he developed the concept, what inspired the project, and what the national win means for his future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Fairfield RTM member and former Board of Education Chair Pamela Iacono joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the controversy surrounding speed cameras in Fairfield. After attending a recent public meeting, Iacono shares her firsthand perspective on the tension in the room, why many residents feel shut out of the decision-making process, and what’s driving the escalating frustration. She breaks down the communication gaps between officials and the community, and what may be needed to rebuild trust. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award winner, Karen Ziemba joins Lisa Wexler to talk about her Broadway career and her most recent appearance at The Westport Country Playhouse in Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joshua Eaton, investigative reporter for Hearst Connecticut Media Group, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his reporting centered on a 5-year-old girl who was separated from her mother for 118 days and held in a residential facility and foster care in Connecticut. He explains how and why children can be placed into these programs, the role of nonprofit providers, and the broader legal and ethical questions surrounding family separation, oversight, and child welfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Warshauer, Distinguished Professor of History at Central Connecticut State University, joins Lisa Wexler to explore the life and legacy of Roger Sherman, one of Connecticut’s most influential yet often overlooked Founding Fathers. The conversation highlights Sherman’s unique role in shaping the nation’s founding documents and why his contributions remain essential to understanding early American history. Plus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Susan Bysiewicz joins Lisa Wexler to discuss a new Connecticut law expanding health coverage mandates including provisions for scalp cooling systems for patients undergoing chemotherapy, prosthetic devices designed for athletic use, and expanded IVF coverage. The conversation also turns to immigration, as Lisa makes a personal appeal to the Lt. Governor to examine cases involving immigrant children being held without a parent or guardian in programs run by Connecticut nonprofits, raising broader questions about oversight and child welfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NewWayWriter founder Gigi New joins Lisa Wexler to discuss her lifelong passion for writing, starting her career on Everybody Loves Raymond, and how she ultimately launched NewWayWriter, her writing consulting business. She shares insights from her time in television and explains how she now helps aspiring and experienced writers develop their ideas, strengthen their storytelling, and achieve their writing goals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Director of Harbor Watch, Nikki Spiller, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss how the nonprofit is making a real impact on Connecticut’s waterways. In partnership with Westport’s Earthplace, Harbor Watch has launched the state’s first river-spanning litter boom—an innovative project designed to trap trash before it pollutes local waters. Spiller explains how the system works, shares early results, and outlines what’s next, including plans to expand into higher-density areas where pollution challenges are even greater. A conversation about local action, environmental stewardship, and scalable solutions to a growing problem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Northwell Health CEO Dr. John D'Angelo joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his decades-long career in healthcare, his leadership philosophy, and Northwell Health's vision for the future of healthcare in Connecticut. He shares what's ahead following the integration of Norwalk and Danbury hospitals into the Northwell Health system, the opportunities this partnership creates for patients and providers, and how Northwell plans to strengthen access to high-quality, innovative care across the region. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa answers audience questions on if landlords in Connecticut can choose not to renew a lease without risking a lawsuit, and contract statutes and legal timelines. She also breaks down the probate proces, including how long it should take when someone dies with a will, what a status hearing is, why an original will is required (and why it should never be unstapled), and what a “streamlined” will means. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Senator Richard Blumenthal joins Lisa Wexler to reflect on the unexpected and sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham. He shares personal insights, memories from their time in the Senate, and discusses Graham’s impact on national politics, bipartisan relationships, and his legacy in public service. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. David Doo, fellowship-trained gynecologic oncologist at Danbury and Norwalk Hospitals and Director of Gynecological Oncology at Norwalk Hospital, joins Lisa Wexler to focus on cervical cancer and cervical dysplasia—what they are, how they’re detected, and why early screening is critical. He also shares details about the launch of a new colposcopy clinic at the Norwalk Women’s Wellness Center, expanding access to essential diagnostic care for the community.Dr. Doo discusses risk factors, prevention strategies, and advances in treatment across gynecologic cancers. With expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, cancer debulking, and advanced pelvic procedures, he offers insight into both cutting-edge care and compassionate, patient-centered treatment.This conversation is part of Northwell Women’s Health Matters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Entertainer, music aficionado, paranormal investigator, and author Charles Rosenay joins Lisa Wexler to share chilling stories from his new book, True Ghost Stories of Connecticut and New England!. From haunted landmarks to eerie firsthand encounters, Rosenay dives into the region’s rich supernatural history and what continues to mystify believers and skeptics alike.Blending storytelling with decades of paranormal exploration, he offers insight into why New England remains one of the most haunted areas in the country—and what these ghostly encounters might reveal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wayne Winston joins Lisa Wexler for It’s Not Just Black & White, a conversation examining the recent changes in Haitian immigration status and what it mean for Connecticut and the country as a whole. They explore the human impact of his policy shift, and how communities will be affected. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon Sonneborn and his daughter Jessica Sonneborn join Lisa Wexler to discuss the East Coast premiere of their feature film Morton Meets the Eye. The screening takes place July 20 at SHU Community Theatre in Fairfield. They share the story behind the film, their creative collaboration as a family, and what it means to debut their work in their home community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Senator Richard Blumenthal joins Lisa Wexler to talk about the aftermath of CT's recent storm damage, Graham Platner, what democratic socialism means to CT politicians, and the emoluments clause. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.