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.