87:60 by Virtuoso

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Erin Choquette, CEO of CT Paid Leave, to discuss the many factors that shape the program and its impact on employers and employees alike. An employment lawyer by training, Erin spent years representing employers before stepping into her role at CT Paid Leave. The conversation touches on the challenge of “employer fatigue,” operational benefits of paid leave, and the general scope of the program. 

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Lisa Jacobi, Senior Vice President and Chief HR Officer at COCC (Connecticut Online Computer Center), to discuss the company’s rebrand, common recruitment challenges, and its focus on internal talent pipelines. COCC is a long-standing technology service provider for community banks and credit unions. Jacobi touches on the company’s impressive achievements: being recognized as a “Top Workplace” by the Hartford Courant for 16 consecutive years, as well as receiving the Great Place to Work® certification The conversation explores the shift toward skill-based hiring, the importance of fostering employee engagement, and the Connecticut talent gap.

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Andy Pforzheimer, founder and former CEO of bartaco and Barcelona Wine Bar, to talk about his journey from working in a restaurant to building two businesses from the ground up. Andy discusses his experience with successfully scaling restaurants, what he thinks makes a “decent human being,” and the business fallacy that is quantity over quality. His original plan didn’t include expansion and happened naturally as the restaurant refined their model by focusing on a specific, well-executed concept. The conversation explores the value of fostering a viable work environment, recognizing your business demographic, and the issue with transactionalizing hospitality.

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Kyle DeVivo, Chief Operating Officer of DATTCO, alongside his father, Don DeVivo, President of DATTCO, to talk about what it really takes to modernize a business without losing a people-first philosophy. Kyle highlights his family’s humble beginnings running a dairy farm—crediting this experience as the foundation for DATTCO’s direct, family-first approach. From implementing fully online booking capabilities to AI-driven safety systems, Kyle details how their business is using emerging technologies to assist employees, not replace them. Together, the conversation explores the value of fostering a family-like atmosphere, building scalable strategies, and leveraging tools like AI while keeping people at the center of the business.

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito talks with Joe Wilson Jr., Director of Providence’s Department of Art, Culture and Tourism, about what it actually takes to build a city people want to stay in, not just visit. From permitting and producing major public events like PVDFest to stewarding public art, nightlife strategy, and World Cup fan activations, Joe breaks down why “visitor experience” only works when it protects the real capital: the people. The conversation unpacks activation of public space, lighting as a character in cities, cultural heritage tourism, and why New England’s strength isn’t in competing state by state, but in telling a shared regional story that turns proximity into momentum.

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Becky Lewis, founder of Invictus Records, to explore a different kind of record label — one built to protect artists instead of exploiting them. Becky breaks down why most musicians still can’t make a living in a streaming-first world, how traditional contracts create massive power and information imbalances, and what it looks like to build a more transparent, partnership-driven model where artists keep ownership and control. From masters and publishing to mental health, mobility, and the “label-plus” vision Invictus is building, this conversation is a grounded look at how the industry could work, and why it has to.

In this episode of 87:60, BJ Kito sits down with Vincent Errichetti, founder of Taste of Massachusetts and Taste of New England, to explore what travel and tourism content actually does when it’s done right: drive foot traffic, shape demand, and fuel local economies. From building a creator-owned brand after getting laid off, to realizing that storytelling consistently outperforms aesthetics and virality, Vincent breaks down why trust, consistency, and distribution matter more than hype. The conversation challenges how brands approach influencer marketing, calls out the cost of sounding like a commercial, and explains why real stories, not polished moments, are what convert attention into action.

What does real marketing risk look like in 2026 and why does trust matter more than ever?In this episode of 87:60, host BJ Kito dives into a wide-ranging conversation on brand risk, cultural backlash, and the myth of breakthrough marketing. Using recent campaigns from brands like YETI and American Eagle as examples, the group debates whether today’s safest strategies are actually the riskiest ones.The discussion spans generational shifts in trust, the rise of influencer credibility, the difference between controversy and connection, and why brands that try to speak to everyone often end up resonating with no one. It’s an honest look at how culture, timing, and audience perception shape what brands can — and can’t — get away with today.

Quantum technology and life sciences may seem like two different worlds — but in Connecticut, they’re rapidly converging. In this episode, Albert Green, CEO of QuantumCT, and Jodie Gillon, CEO of BioCT, explain how the state is becoming a national hub for quantum innovation, biotech advancement, and workforce development.

Cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls and fear. It’s about protecting the systems that hold the world together. In this episode, Justin Orcutt, Microsoft’s defense and cybersecurity lead for top global contractors, explains how “unknown unknowns,” AI, and zero trust are reshaping security. From nation-state threats and regulatory frameworks to Connecticut’s growing role as a defense and cyber hub, Orcutt explores what it takes to build a safer, smarter future and the talent pipeline we need to get there.

Artificial intelligence doesn’t have to live in the hands of a few. In this episode, Edward Zyszkowski, CEO and Chairman of Personal Digital Spaces, explains how decentralization, data licensing, and small, specialized models are reshaping the AI economy. From the early foundations of neural networks to today’s human-first design, Zyszkowski explores a future where consent, control, and compensation define digital progress.

From nuclear submarines to cybersecurity strategy, Ian Leatherman’s journey proves that innovation starts with curiosity and the courage to rethink what’s possible. As a former Navy engineer turned Microsoft security strategist, Ian has helped reshape how the federal government, defense sector, and private industry protect critical systems and infrastructure.

111 years in business doesn’t mean playing it safe.Jill Mayer, CEO of Bead Industries, is proving that legacy and innovation aren’t opposites — they’re fuel for each other. As the fifth-generation leader of a family company, she’s carrying forward more than a century of history while pushing into new markets, experimenting with technology, and rethinking what it means to build culture in modern manufacturing.On this episode of 87:60, Jill talks about reinventing perceptions of the industry, creating space for trial and error, and finding the balance between honoring the past and driving toward the next big thing.

Niko Zurita has spent his career scaling startups and building intentional workplace cultures. From early talent roles to leading People & Culture at Inbox Health, he’s helped companies grow with clarity, empathy, and operational focus.Now, he’s applying that same mindset to a new challenge: group travel.As co-founder of Vamos, Niko is solving the coordination chaos behind company retreats. Built for hybrid and remote teams, Vamos simplifies planning through a data-driven, collaboration-first platform—combining flight tracking, itinerary tools, and real-time input from your whole team.In this episode of PitchPod, Niko shares how Vamos is helping startups plan smarter, scale faster, and stay connected beyond the screen.

Behind Shaping CT's Future Pitch Competition is the powerhouse team at UConn’s Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CCEI). Executive Director Jennifer Mathieu and Assistant Director Alycia Chrosniak have helped launch and grow hundreds of startups, designing accelerator programs, securing funding opportunities, and mentoring founders.This episode highlights what makes Connecticut’s startup ecosystem unique, how CCEI supports diverse founders, and why collaborations like PitchPod matter for the state’s economic future.

Restore is a SaaS platform built for restaurants to track and resolve guest issues in real time, whether it’s handling concerns in person, offering rewards through the app, or using insights to improve service. Founder Nathan Catapano is focused on giving restaurant owners a credible, engaging tool that strengthens customer relationships and boosts operational performance. In this episode, Nathan shares how Restore helps hospitality teams respond faster, learn from feedback, and turn guest experiences into lasting loyalty, and why earning credibility with early adopters is key to scaling in the restaurant industry.

Puure is a mission-driven intimate apparel brand putting women’s health first. Founder Christina Phillips was inspired by her personal health journey to design organic, non-toxic lingerie that’s as safe and sustainable as it is beautiful. In this episode, Christina talks about the gaps in the intimate apparel market, how Puure blends wellness with fashion, and why conscious consumer choices can transform an industry.

Orbit Crates is reimagining playtime with a toy rental service designed to reduce clutter, encourage sustainable play, and help families save money. Founder Kim Conti, a three-time AI product founder, left a C-suite role to build a mission-driven business tackling the environmental and financial waste of toy overconsumption. This episode highlights the inspiration behind Orbit Crates, lessons from early customer feedback, and her vision for growing the toy rental economy nationwide.

PatentPlus AI is automating one of the most time-consuming parts of innovation: patent search. Co-founder Massyl Mallem is pioneering a system that delivers premium-quality search reports in less than 24 hours, giving inventors and startups faster paths to protection and commercialization. We take a closer look at how AI can transform IP research, the impact on global innovation, and what’s next for their market-ready autonomous search platform.

Levo International is transforming food security with affordable, accessible hydroponic technology. Founder Christian Heiden started the company as a teenager and has since scaled it into a community-driven enterprise producing fresh, local food with 90% less water and faster growth than traditional farming. We talk about Levo’s journey from small pilot farms to statewide expansion and how their model empowers neighborhoods to grow, and own, their food supply.

Andrea Shields is a physician-entrepreneur and maternal health advocate, co-founding Varda5 to tackle a critical gap in emergency response education: maternal cardiac arrest. Their Obstetric Life Support (OBLS) training is a first-of-its-kind, evidence-based program preparing healthcare teams to save lives in critical moments. In this episode, Andrea discusses the urgent need for OBLS, the challenges of scaling life-saving training, and how innovation in healthcare education can reach underserved communities.

WheelPrice is reshaping how car enthusiasts buy and sell secondhand vehicles, combining tech, trust, and a deep connection to car culture.In this episode of Shaping CT's Future Pitch Competition, Co-Founder Wally Namane shares how his team is building a purpose-driven marketplace that solves the frustrations of outdated forums and fragmented resale experiences. With AI-powered fitment tools, real-time pricing, escrow protection, and simplified shipping, WheelPrice is making the process faster, safer, and more reliable.With 25,000 users and a growing community of 200K+ followers, they’re scaling with intention and staying rooted in authenticity.

Kicking off our Shaping CT's Future Pitch Competition series is a duo transforming how we teach kids to handle big feelings, with science, puppets, and a whole lot of heart.Meet Emily Wicks and Dr. Sandy Chafouleas, Co-Founders of Feel Your Best Self.Emily brings a decade of leadership in puppetry arts and education. Sandy is a nationally recognized psychologist and Distinguished Professor known for turning research into real-world impact.Feel Your Best Self is an award-winning, research-backed toolkit that makes emotional wellness fun and accessible, and it’s already being adopted in schools, libraries, and even by the Irish Department of Education.

BJ Kito, host of 87:60, sits down with Bernt Ullmann—the strategic force behind global brands like FUBU, Sean John, Jennifer Lopez, and Adam Levine. With over $6 billion in retail sales to his name, Bernt unpacks how he’s helped turn celebrity into enterprise and personality into profit. This episode explores the playbook behind billion-dollar brand launches, the overlooked art of brand longevity, and why staying off-camera might just be the smartest move in the business. A must-listen for anyone serious about fashion, influence, and building brand value that lasts.

BJ Kito, host of 87:60, sits down with Pete Tucci— creator of the game-chaning Torpedo bat and founder of Tucci Limited. Once a first-round draft pick, Pete shares the journey from pro ball to the garage workbench, where he began building one of the most respected names in baseball bat manufacturing. In this powerful conversation, Pete shares how a career-ending injury led him to redefine success, channeling his pro athlete mindset into building a performance-driven brand from scratch. They talk legacy, obsession, grief, and the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. A must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, business, and building something that lasts.

What does it take to change careers and achieve the impossible? Just ask Kevin Klipstein. After building a successful career at a major sports marketing agency and Sun Microsystems, he made the leap into the nonprofit world to lead US Squash. His ultimate goal: get the sport into the Olympics.Join Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito and Shaping CT's Future Executive Producer Sam Barrett with Kevin Klipstein, President and CEO of US Squash, as they pull back the curtain on his incredible journey to securing a spot for squash in the LA 28 Games. They explore the highs and lows of his transition, the leadership principles he brought with him from the corporate world, and how he has managed to steer the organization with remarkable consistency and vision.This is a deep dive into the mind of a leader who knows how to balance a powerful vision with the day-to-day responsibilities of mentoring a team and growing a sport from the ground up.

Join Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito and video producer Tim O’Shea in a forward-looking conversation with Emmy-winning sports producer and professor Dennis Deninger. Fresh off his keynote at Shaping Connecticut’s Future, Deninger dives into how the NFL is preparing for a radically global future—from games in Madrid and London to international fandom, supersonic travel, and AI-enhanced broadcasts. Explore how American football is following in soccer’s footsteps, building grassroots connections abroad, and laying the groundwork for a truly global league by Super Bowl 100.Tune in for a fascinating look at the intersection of sports, technology, and global culture.

Why is Connecticut a winning destination for major sporting events? Join Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito and Shaping CT's Future Executive Producer Sam Barrett as they explore this with Nathan Grube (Travelers Championship Tournament Director) and Gabrielle Lucivero (NBC CT Sports Anchor). They discuss the unique draw of Connecticut that makes events like the Travelers feel like a home game for players, highlighting what our state offers that other markets simply can't match. Tune in to discover Connecticut's prime position in the world of sports!

Join Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito and video producer Tim O'Shea as they sit down with Hartford Athletic's Dr. Wasserlauf and Bruce Mandel for a fascinating discussion. They explore everything from the latest advancements in sports medicine, education, and biomedicine to how Hartford Athletic is embracing innovation and tackling the season with a focus on player safety and community. Discover the team's powerful reverberation within the community, their commitment to the growth of the sport and advancing their youth programs, and how they're bringing the community together for a shared passion and great times! Tune in for an insightful conversation about the exciting opportunities ahead for Connecticut.

From Michelin-starred kitchens to the heart of Connecticut, listen to BJ Kito, host of 87:60, as he sits down with Jeff Lizotte, Head Chef of The Foundry. Discover the fascinating path that brought this culinary talent back to Connecticut, and hear his passionate vision for the local food scene. They delve into the incredible talent pool thriving here while also candidly discussing the barriers facing aspiring restaurant startups. A must-listen for anyone passionate about food, entrepreneurship, and the future of Connecticut's culinary landscape.Tune in to hear Jeff Lizotte's journey and his aspirations for the future of Connecticut's culinary landscape.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the USGA's comprehensive marketing approach with Head of Brand and Marketing, Lynn LaRocca. We delve into how they balance the prestige of golf with innovative strategies to broaden its appeal and ensure anyone can play. Learn how they connect with fans, capitalize on golf's rising visibility, and empower players to reach their peak performance. Lynn also highlights the USGA's deep commitment to the long-term health and betterment of the game.We are continuing the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series, where Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito sits down with sports and innovation experts ahead of Shaping CT's Future's event on sports and entertainment.

In this episode, BJ Kito and Tim O'Shea explore the dynamic world of minor league baseball and community engagement in Connecticut with Tim Restall, the dedicated President of the Hartford Yard Goats. Get the inside scoop on his vision for the team's connection with Hartford and the surrounding region, their strategies for fostering a vibrant fan experience at Dunkin' Donuts Park, and the leadership that drives the Yard Goats' success both on and off the field. His perspective showcases the Yard Goats organization's commitment to local pride and the vital role sports teams play in shaping the spirit of Connecticut communities.We are continuing the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series, where Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito sits down with sports and innovation experts ahead of Shaping CT's Future's event on sports and entertainment.

In this episode, BJ Kito explores the rapidly evolving world of college athletics with Jack Betts, the King of DIII NIL, from Amherst College. Get the inside scoop on his journey navigating the new NIL landscape, his insights on being a leader in this space, and the strategic dedication that fuels his success both on and off the field. More than just an athlete, Jack Betts' story showcases the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial drive emerging within Division III sports and its potential to empower student-athletes.We are continuing the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series, where Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito sits down with sports and innovation experts ahead of Shaping CT's Future's event on sports and entertainment.

In this episode, Rob Thompson and BJ Kito explore the exciting landscape of sports innovation in Connecticut with Freddie and Jeremiah Vargas, the founders of Tater Baseball. Get the inside scoop on Tater's origin, their journey to success, and the incredible dedication that fuels the creation of their high-quality bats. More than just a product, Tater Baseball's story showcases the drive and passion that defines Connecticut's innovative spirit in the world of sports.We are continuing the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series where Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito sits down with sports and innovation experts ahead of Shaping CT's Future's event on sports and entertainment.

In this engaging episode of the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series, Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito joins Shaping CT's Future Executive Producer Sam Barrett for an insightful conversation with the experts at HB Live. They pull back the curtain on the crucial elements of how they maintain the dynamic energy that defines Shaping CT's Future and cultivate the strong sense of community that attendees cherish. Discover the tactics and philosophies behind keeping the spirit of the events alive and thriving.

Get an unfiltered look at the production of Shaping CT's Future with the producers and HB Live. This installment of the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series features Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito alongside Shaping CT's Future Executive Producer Sam Barrett. Together with HB Live, they share behind-the-scenes stories, challenges overcome, and triumphs in bringing this event to life. Tune in for insights on live streaming, broadcasting, and the power of impactful content.

Get an unfiltered look at the production of Shaping CT's Future with the producers and HB Live. They're sharing the behind-the-scenes stories, challenges, and triumphs of bringing this event to life. This episode of 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series, Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito and Shaping CT's Future's Producers Mel Nardiello and Sam Barrett sit down with HB Live Vice President Don Guzauckas to talk about what goes into the production of Shaping CT's Future. 

Rob Thompson and BJ Kito discuss how Connecticut is more than just pizza and UConn basketball. This podcast reveals the state's undeniable sports legacy, from the birth of American football to the disruption of sports broadcasting. We're talking Walter Camp, ESPN, WWE, and the future of sports tech. Get ready to rethink everything you know about sports in Connecticut.We are kicking off the 87:60 X Shaping CT's Future series where Virtuoso CEO BJ Kito sits down with sports and innovation experts ahead of Shaping CT's Future's event on sports and entertainment.

In this episode of 87:60, we tackle the hottest topics in sports today! We discuss the controversy surrounding the "torpedo bat" and its impact on baseball, analyze the continued dominance of major sports leagues, and explore the explosive influence of athletes-turned-influencers. Plus, we dive into the exciting rise of women's sports and the innovations changing how we play and experience the games we love. Get ready for some hot takes as  BJ Kito, James Dowd, and Steve Mcloughlin sit down to talk about all things sports.

In this episode of 87:60, we examine the role of a Fractional CMO and weigh the benefits against the potential pitfalls. Can a part-time leader deliver full-time results, or are there hidden drawbacks? Tune in to discover if a Fractional CMO is the strategic edge your business needs in today's competitive landscape.Our experts, BJ Kito, Steve McLaughlin, and James Dowd, discuss the role of the Fractional CMO and explore why companies are ditching the full-time hire for on-demand executive leadership.

In this episode of 87:60's internal series, BJ Kito, Steve McLaughlin, and James Dowd confront the complexities of AI, from its ethical implications to its impact on creativity and strategy. They highlight the dangers of misinformation and over-reliance, particularly with tools like ChatGPT.The team emphasizes the importance of human creativity and authenticity in an AI-influenced world. They grapple with balancing AI's efficiency with maintaining genuine audience connection. Ultimately, they question AI's true value, stressing the critical role of human insight.

This episode of 87:60 features host BJ Kito, CSO at Rebellion Group, Bryn Tindall, CEO & Owner at Rebellion Group, James Dowd, CCO at Rebellion Group, and Steve McLoughlin, SVP, Strategical Marketing & Impact at Rebellion Group.  Is the consulting world full of "BS"? We think so. In this episode, we expose the gap between strategy and execution, the flaws in blindly relying on online behavioral data, and the need for a consultancy that actually delivers. Join us as we explore how Virtuoso is changing the game by building audiences based on deeper human understanding, and driving real, measurable growth. 

AI and cybersecurity are no longer the future—they’re the present, and they’re inevitable. In this episode, BJ Kito and Sam Barrett are joined by Senators Tony Hwang and James Maroney to discuss how these technologies are impacting Connecticut’s public safety, education, economy, and legislation. They explore how Connecticut can learn from surrounding states, develop stronger data privacy laws, and create policies that incentivize AI for good. The conversation dives into information sharing, regulation, and the steps needed to ensure AI serves the public interest while maintaining security and ethical standards.

Governor Ned Lamont joins BJ to discuss how his entrepreneurial background helped shape his leadership today. As Connecticut's first businessman-turned-governor, he discusses the economic importance of supporting startups, fostering innovation, and creating a supportive environment for business growth in the state.The Governor and BJ are joined by Kevin Masse, an entrepreneur who moved to CT after finding it to be the perfect place to start his business.Tune in to hear Governor Lamont's vision for the future of Connecticut, and what it will take to achieve it.

Senator Richard Blumenthal dropped by the Virtuoso studio to chat about cybersecurity, the privacy of children online, and how AI might threaten it all. Joining Sen. Blumenthal and host BJ Kito are cybersecurity expert Sal Marino from Charles IT and Greg Bordonaro, editor at the Hartford Business Journal.

In this episode, Emmy-award winning television production executive Dennis Denniger takes us on a journey through the evolution of sports broadcasting. Currently a Professor at Syracuse University, Dennis was named Falk College Faculty Member of the Year in 2014 and played a key role in founding the sports communications graduate program at the Newhouse School. With a 25-year tenure at ESPN, he led production teams for studio programming, live remote events, and digital video platforms, witnessing and contributing to ESPN's transformation from startup to a household name.Beyond academia and broadcasting, Dennis is a prolific author, sharing insights into sports television in "Sports on Television" and exploring the Super Bowl's evolution in "The Football Game that Changed America."Dennis Denniger is not just an educator and author; he's a technological innovator. He introduced the digital instant review technology "Shot Spot," now ubiquitous in major tennis tournaments and known as "Hawkeye" in various professional sports leagues.Join us for a captivating conversation as Dennis Denniger reflects on his career, the evolution of ESPN, and the intersection of technology and sports broadcasting that has shaped the industry we know today.

Join us for an exciting conversation with Rebel's Chief Strategy Officer BJ Kito and Bernt Ullmann, who is often referred to as “The Man Behind the Brands.” Mr. Ullmann has been the trusted business acceleration expert by top fashion moguls and CEOs such as Daymond John, Eddie Lampert, and Tommy Hilfiger.You'll hear first-hand how Bernt went from a pizza entrepreneur to one of the world’s leading experts in celebrity brand development, brand management, licensing and distribution, and monetization having contributed to the successful launches of brands for clients including Jennifer Lopez, Adam Levine, Nicki Minaj and many others. The brands he has worked with have generated over $6 billion in global sales.  This episode gets at the heart of understanding what a "brand" really is, why you should think BIG, and how seeing through the noise is the best pathway to reaching your vision.

Join us on an exciting journey with Rebel's Chief Strategy Officer BJ Kito and VP of Strategic Marketing & Impact Steve McLoughlin as they sit down with Pete Tucci, the founder and CEO of Tucci Lumber Co. He's gone from being one of minor league baseball's top prospects to all-star business exec, and his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Major league lessons on the reality that a missed goal does not equate to failure and how training for one path actually provides unique perspective when forced to focus in a different direction.For Pete, what felt like shoot-from-the-hip decisions as a business owner, was ultimately rooted in his ability to make calculated split-second decisions as an athlete - the real-time scanning and evaluation of the pitcher, field, game scenarios, etc. from the batter’s box. This transition of batter’s eye to business world is what gave him the insight to see a pathway to building a high-end baseball brand embraced by the most elite players in the MLB.If you’re a fan of great baseball stories or looking for ways to improve the hard-hit percentages of your decision-making, this conversation will get everyone to pause and think what truly drives our “gut” decisions