87:60 by Virtuoso

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.