Brian Shactman and Jill Schlesinger discussed the upcoming economic data releases, including jobs numbers for November and the CPI report. Schlesinger noted that the labor market is in a "low, higher, low fire market" with minimal hiring and firing, except in certain industries. She highlighted that the economy is growing due to increased spending on AI and wealthier Americans, but job creation has slowed significantly, with only 76,000 jobs created through September 2024. Schlesinger emphasized the challenges faced by young college graduates in finding jobs, advising them to focus on adaptability and skills rather than specialization.
Brian Shactman and Morgan Cunningham discuss Morgan's new radio show schedule. Morgan's Saturday afternoon show, "Spotlight Connecticut," will move to Saturday mornings at 11 AM starting January 3 to avoid preemptions. Additionally, Morgan will host a new talk show on Saturday nights from 9 PM to midnight, titled "Nighttime Neighbors," targeting insomniacs, shift workers, and others active at night. The new show aims to fill a niche, as only six out of the top 75 markets have live Saturday night programming. Morgan will handle all aspects of production and plans to cover topics like creativity and independence, with potential for call-ins in the future.
Brian Shactman interviews Connor Geary, also known as Game Day Connor, about his experiences in the sports media industry. Connor discusses his roles with various teams, including the Yard Goats, Connecticut Sun, UConn, and now the New England Patriots. He highlights the challenges of each job, noting that the Connecticut Sun program is the most demanding due to its high physical and on-camera activity. Connor also mentions his work with Connecticut's indoor soccer team and the Basketball Hall of Fame. He shares anecdotes about meeting notable figures like Travis Scott and Vince Wilfork at Patriots games. Brian and Connor also promote the Yard Goats' 12 Days of Christmas deals.
Brian Shactman and Christopher Keating discussed the challenges of energy prices in Connecticut, with a focus on the nuclear option proposed by Governor Ned Lamont. Lamont is exploring small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs) due to their faster construction times compared to traditional nuclear plants. However, the process is complex and lengthy, with significant regulatory hurdles and public feedback required. Additionally, Keating highlighted the impending staffing crisis in the Connecticut State Police, with 174 troopers eligible to retire by 2027, posing a significant loss of experience and expertise.
Greg Bordonaro from the Hartford Business Journal discussed the third annual innovators issue, highlighting eight profiled individuals, including Jay Walker, founder of Priceline.com, and Austin McCord, who transformed a power plant into a public park. Walker's new company, Object Systems, aims to reshore pharmaceutical manufacturing. McCord's ventures include Casana, a health tech company, and the National Havoc Robot League. Steve Leonard Jr. is transitioning his family business, Student Leather, to the next generation. Electric Boat plans to hire 1,000 people annually over three years, despite supply chain issues, and has acquired several properties for future expansion.