What Do I Know? with Bill Shakos

About What Do I Know? with Bill Shakos

Curiosity. Empathy. Real Conversations. Join host Bill Shakos, a self-proclaimed Serial Meet and Greet Guy (SMAGG), as he dives deep into honest conversations that explore identity, community, and the invisible walls that divide us. Through humor, humility, and deeply empathetic storytelling, Bill challenges what we think we know about people who are different. So, he set out to connect with people from all walks of life—one story at a time.

Publisher

Bill Shakos

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Mar 2025

Latest episode

17 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Dec 2025

   Episode 12: Practicing Gratitude: Finding Purpose Through Connection

   Host Bill Shakos and Jesse Shafer explore how practicing gratitude and human connection can help people find purpose and meaning, especially when facing a crisis, in this reflective interview.

2. 

   18 Aug 2025

   Episode 11: The Price of Freedom: Life After Military Service

   Host Bill Shakos interviews Navy veteran Phil Delgado about the evolving needs and challenges veterans face after military service, exploring the VFW's mission.

3. 

   7 Jul 2025

   Episode 10: What’s in a Letter? Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Today

   Educator Kayla Ionetta discusses LGBTQ+ identities, youth support, and challenges to diversity with host Bill Shakos, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for young people in this interview episode.

4. 

   23 Jun 2025

   Episode 9: From Little League to Big Business: The Rise of Professionalized Youth Sports

   LeagueApps President Jeremy Goldberg discusses the professionalization of youth sports since the 1990s, including technology and investment impacts, in an interview with Bill Shakos, revealing how it shapes young athletes' experiences.

5. 

   9 Jun 2025

   Episode 8: The Wisdom in the Room — Honoring Our Senior Citizens

   Wendy Petty, Director of the Westport Center for Senior Activities, discusses the vibrant community hub that redefines aging with purpose, passion, and connection, highlighting the wisdom and experiences of senior citizens in an interview with Bill Shakos.

6. 

   26 May 2025

   Episode 7: Redefining Normal: The Value of Diverse Abilities and Seeing the Person First

   James Ross and Elaine Daignault explore seeing individuals before their disabilities, revealing how embracing diverse abilities enriches communities and promotes equal opportunity in this interview episode.

7. 

   28 Apr 2025

   Episode 6: Homes with Hope: Beyond the Welcome Sign. Rethinking Homelessness, Housing, and Community.

   What does homelessness look like in an affluent suburb like Westport—and who truly gets to call it home? In this deeply human episode, we go beyond the stereotypes to explore the hidden faces of housing insecurity in one of America’s wealthiest towns. At the heart of this story is Homes with Hope, a local nonprofit quietly rewriting the narrative on homelessness since 1984. From emergency shelter to affordable housing and wraparound services, they’ve been helping people not just survive—but rebuild their lives with dignity. Featuring three thoughtful and inspiring guests, one of which lives in affordable housing in Westport. 💡 Inside the Episode: You’ll hear from three powerful voices, including Olena, a courageous mother who fled war-torn Ukraine and now lives in affordable housing at 122 Wilton Road. She shares her journey from refugee to rooted Westport resident—and how Homes with Hope helped her family plant new seeds of hope and independence. We also take you inside the Gillespie Center, a homeless shelter just steps from downtown, where residents talk candidly about the paths that brought them here and what it takes to move forward. Along the way, we unpack big questions: Who benefits from the invisible “safety nets” that cushion life’s blows? What happens when those nets aren’t there? 🌱 Communities vs. Castles: We close with a heartfelt reflection on what makes a town feel like a true community. Why should the people who care for our children, serve our meals, and heal our wounds be able to live where they work? And how can we build towns that don’t just welcome—but truly include? 💬 Why This Episode Matters: This episode is a powerful reminder: a stronger, kinder community is one that makes room for everyone. Westport is setting a high bar leading by example. Stay Connected: LinkTree page (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__linktr.ee_whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=A1dg6Tq75ZHMJR48lt8CJCaWp_vkopmT11cwW3-QqtE&e=) with all ways to listen, follow, and subscribe Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.instagram.com_whatdoiknowwithbill_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=3nd-VgjSPC6C1J1lyvbGlzryVr5h0gs3DCPoDbA-1e4&e=), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_whatdoiknowwithbill2&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=QEmAavkP-NSrPGhTT2ZtzQiDetv82daiBG5V9-ya_d8&e=), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.tiktok.com_-40whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=OGnMcgk9sz0smJfO5EvQck6W-JYhbQpSdi4xg-xtUZk&e=) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__whatdoiknowwithbill.com_contact_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=f1KKIpHoRGVDu7E8gb5Et9n3ynbrhf2A23qfOy8En94&e=) for new episodes and recaps ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=aXbj7JnOdndY3TUWQ9jdi_nO01zQVfgpVte2e514o9o&e=) listen, follow, subscribe, and learn about Bill’s story and podcast purpose ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_-40whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=7nBrsKoTRQQftIXsPTGVvhnv54N4lnEsI5KxWgTwqlzjNdV7pJwFgYwJG5YfHkgt&s=fT5XtgpJ3tItQUCziO65_6FOsBFx9MaYtQtn2kpDJKM&e=) with supplemental content

8. 

   14 Apr 2025

   Episode 5: Breaking the Silence on Mental Health — How Shame and Judgment Fuel the Cycle of Addiction

   This episode is raw, fearless, and deeply moving. Host Bill Shakos sits down with Connecticut State Senator Ceci Maher for an unflinching conversation about mental health, addiction, and the heavy burden of stigma. Through powerful personal stories—especially those that hit painfully close to home—Ceci shares how her life was forever shaped by love, loss, and the quiet battles many face in silence. In this episode, Ceci opens up about her late husband’s 15-year struggle with alcoholism, stemming from PTSD after being on-site during the September 11th attacks. She reveals the heartbreaking toll it took on their marriage, how addiction almost tore them apart—and how she ultimately lost the man she still calls her best friend. But this is also a story of resilience. Of replacing shame with compassion. Of turning pain into purpose. Together, we shed light on the often-hidden realities of mental health and addiction, challenge the narratives shaped by judgment, and explore what it truly means to show up for those we love. 💡 What You’ll Hear: Beyond Politics: Ceci makes it clear—she’s not climbing a political ladder. Her fight for mental health justice comes from lived experience and deep empathy. From Tragedy to Advocacy: How three life-altering events led Ceci from private life to a career in social work, helping children in underserved communities. When It Hits Home: A deeply personal account of how PTSD and addiction entered her home, changed her marriage, and tested her heart. Empathy in Office: Why Ceci believes empathy belongs in leadership—and how it drives her work as a state senator advocating for those struggling in silence. 💬 Why This Episode Matters: Mental health affects 1 in 5 American adults—yet stigma still keeps millions from seeking help. This episode is a call to listen without judgment, speak with compassion, and recognize that behind every struggle is a human being worthy of dignity, support, and love. Stay Connected: LinkTree page (https://linktr.ee/whatdoiknowwithbill) with all ways to listen, follow, and subscribe Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/whatdoiknowwithbill/), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/whatdoiknowwithbill2), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://www.tiktok.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://whatdoiknowwithbill.com/contact/) for new episodes and recaps ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (http://www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) listen, follow, subscribe, and learn about Bill’s story and podcast purpose YouTube Channel⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) with supplemental content

9. 

   31 Mar 2025

   Episode 4: Legacy of the People: One Man’s Generational Advocacy Shaped Our Town’s Culture and Identity

   What difference can one person make? In the case of Westport, Connecticut, one person’s vision and dedication have shaped the town's culture and identity for over five decades. That person is Dan Woog, a man whose life's work has been a legacy of advocacy, storytelling, and community-building—transforming Westport into what it is today. In this compelling episode of What Do I Know?, host Bill Shakos sits down with Dan, who has spent over 55 years as a student, journalist, soccer coach, author, and community advocate. Together, they explore Dan’s journey from a young writer to a pioneering force in Westport’s social fabric. In This Episode: A Lifelong Calling to Write: From his first column in high school to his bylines at the Westport News and the publication of 17 books, Dan shares how writing became a channel for documenting and influencing Westport’s evolution. Building a Digital Legacy: For 15 years, Dan has run 06880 Where Westport Meets the World, a nonprofit blog that’s become a central hub for community stories, featuring over 18,000 articles and 100+ video podcasts. Championing LGBTQ+ Advocacy: As a trailblazer for Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs) in Connecticut, Dan reflects on his groundbreaking work in 1993, when he founded the first GSA in the state while also coming out as gay. His advocacy continues in his books and research on the intersection of sexuality, school life, and sports. Time Machines & Messages in Bottles: With a focus on paying it forward, Dan shares insights into what advice he’d give his younger self—and what guidance he would offer the Westport of 2050. Stay Connected: LinkTree page (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__linktr.ee_whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=SB13kBXf3QznSIvdKpUEDuQUmEa7ttKC9cKhlfbTb6o&e=) with all ways to listen, follow, and subscribe Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.instagram.com_whatdoiknowwithbill_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=z6Zo4-1HBWrGD5s-5LQGzietjV23C2dvd8ecstwmC5U&e=), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_whatdoiknowwithbill2&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=WoskIyhuR-nPb4IvgXMkmZXZVRHu1R7ValqE2BB0Nms&e=), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.tiktok.com_-40whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=cbEebOwLp-svc8pf9qoQVKNmiMt4XH6KzoiPW6GCSE0&e=) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__whatdoiknowwithbill.com_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=oOzjTfyrzoKew1BIDrnpxr4LVa24Kt6Eu4yGavzb42E&e=) for new episodes and recaps ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com_&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=DSamLYQsaufUamHw9M0uKdznqCNqOt3sOsW0OAu4I8o&e=) ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ (https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_-40whatdoiknowwithbill&d=DwMFaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=v8DBUQWexqBB6S0MxLAXrxaogeUMNuEVRh3JjFXHTwI&m=nI2l1U01uex13crh_NwmGMorb4i1NQjgIOSmUHbQVojfDLJT6B4yiVDdt8d1zGZr&s=FstdjM6OVu4D7QGkRS_tgSulj-KXDm_0mpEiy-_AGNc&e=) with supplemental content (no episodes)

10. 

    17 Mar 2025

    Episode 3: From Voter to Leader: Joining Local Government and Amplifying Your Voice

    Why Local Government Matters & How to Get Involved In this inspiring episode of What Do I Know?, host Bill Shakos interviews David Rosenwaks, a recent Westport resident who ran and was elected to local government position after noticing minimal representation of parents. They explore the power of local government and why getting involved can make a real difference. In This Episode: From Finance to Entertainer to Local Government: David shares his journey from a career in finance and entertainment to running for local office in Westport. Making a Difference: Motivated by overcrowding issues at his children’s school, David wanted to represent newer residents and young families. Campaigning & Building Trust: How David connected with constituents by knocking on hundreds of doors and listening to their concerns and being responsive. Surprises & Challenges: The unexpected intensity of local government debates and the challenge of representing all viewpoints. Tips for Getting Involved: Why attending local meetings, learning about community issues, and running for office can create positive change. Why Listen? This episode is a reminder that local government directly impacts your daily life — and anyone can get involved to make a difference. Stay Connected: Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/whatdoiknowwithbill/), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/whatdoiknowwithbill2), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://www.tiktok.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) for new episodes, recaps, and resources ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (http://www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) (episodes and supplemental content) ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) with supplemental content (no episodes) Bill's Voice Over Website (coming soon)

11. 

    17 Mar 2025

    Episode 2: Being Black in White Spaces: Privilege, Prejudice, and Personal Stories

    A Candid Conversation About Racism in Suburbia In this powerful episode of What Do I Know? host Bill Shakos speaks with Richard Anderson, a Black resident of Westport, about his family’s experiences with racism in the community. The Andersons repeatedly encounter racially motivated roadblocks. Together, Bill and Richard explore the complexities of race, privilege, and friendship in suburban neighborhoods. In This Episode: How they became friends: How Bill and Richard became fast friends and were open about race. Microaggressions & Bias: Everyday racial comments and how Richard’s house was undervalued due to implicit bias. Triggering Incident: How a racist text exchange targeted Richard’s daughter. Community Response & Action: Organizing a rally, confronting the Board of Education, and the need for systemic change. Hope and Progress: Why open conversations and allyship are crucial for building a more inclusive community. Why Listen? This episode is an honest look at the reality of racism in suburban America, balanced with moments of levity and genuine friendship. It challenges listeners to reflect on the idea that having bias, whether by nature or nurture, it is what you make of it. Stay Connected Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/whatdoiknowwithbill/), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/whatdoiknowwithbill2), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://www.tiktok.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) for new episodes, recaps, and resources ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (http://www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) (episodes and supplemental content) ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) with supplemental content (no episodes) Bill's Voice Over Website (coming soon)

12. 

    17 Mar 2025

    Episode 1: Battling Escapism After the Pandemic: Reconnecting with Reality

    Host Bill Shakos reflects on turning 50 and navigating life after the pandemic in the pilot episode of What Do I Know?. Joined by his friend of 30 years, Jesse Shafer, they explore what the “new normal after COVID” means for them. One made good choices, the other went down a rabbit hole of escapism. In This Episode: Learn about your host, Bill Shakos, from childhood, character traits, and the impact of his father’s death. Jesse’s journey from NYC to Weston, CT, and the unexpected positive changes it brought. Bill’s rediscovery of childhood passions that spiraled into poor decisions impacting his health. How Bill ‘course corrected’ to build guardrails for positive behavior and channel his enthusiasm. Why Listen? A candid conversation on escapism vs. balance and breaking bad habits. This episode dives deep into reflection, change, and the pursuit of balance in a post-pandemic world. If you’ve ever felt the need to reset or reconnect, this conversation is for you. Stay Connected: Follow What Do I Know? on ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/whatdoiknowwithbill/), ⁠Facebook⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/whatdoiknowwithbill2), and ⁠TikTok⁠ (https://www.tiktok.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) Not on social media? ⁠Sign-up for the bi-weekly newsletter⁠ (https://whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) for new episodes, recaps, and resources ⁠Podcast Website⁠ (http://www.whatdoiknowwithbill.com/) (episodes and supplemental content) ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/@whatdoiknowwithbill) with supplemental content (no episodes) Bill's Voice Over Website (coming soon)

Who has been a guest on What Do I Know? with Bill Shakos

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Jesse Shafer
• Phil Delgado
• Kayla Ionetta
• Jeremy Goldberg
• Wendy Petty

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

811

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.6 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

7 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 51 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

55

Social presence

0

YouTube

66

Engagement

51

Contact What Do I Know? with Bill Shakos

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.