Transit Unplugged

Paul Comfort talks with Patrick Preusser, Chief Operating Officer of Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD), to unpack the reality of delivering transit service across one of the largest and most complex systems in the U.S.Serving over 3 million people across 2,000+ square miles, RTD operates a multimodal network of bus, light rail, commuter rail, paratransit, and emerging microtransit services—all coordinated under a $1.3 billion operation.As part of our “The Doers” series, this conversation focuses on the leaders responsible for turning strategy into service—and Patrick offers a rare, inside look at what that really means.In this episode, you’ll learn:What a Chief Operating Officer actually does in a major transit agencyHow RTD manages daily service for 135,000+ ridersThe key KPIs driving performance—from on-time service to cost efficiencyWhy Denver embraced frequent regional rail before it became industry standardHow transit agencies are adapting to new ridership patterns post-pandemicThe role of technology, safety, and data dashboards in modern operationsWhat’s ahead for Denver, including BRT expansion, rail reconstruction, and major development projectsA system built for scale—and the futureFrom direct rail service to Denver International Airport to major upcoming investments like the East Colfax BRT line, RTD is positioning itself for long-term growth in one of America’s fastest-evolving regions.Patrick also reflects on his journey through the industry—from starting as a transit user in Chicago to leading operations in Denver—and what it means to be one of the “doers” responsible for delivering service where it matters most: on the street.Listen now to learn how transit strategy becomes real-world service.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinBrand Design: Tina OlagundoyeTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

This week on Transit Unplugged, we continue our “The Doers” series—highlighting the transit leaders who are not just setting strategy, but delivering results on the ground.Paul Comfort sits down with Shofi Ull Azum, Chief Planning and Development Officer at Cherriots in Salem, Oregon—a mid-size agency achieving something few systems have managed: ridership that exceeds pre-pandemic levels by more than 12%.Shofi shares a tactical, inside look at how his team is turning planning, innovation, and partnerships into measurable growth—and what other agencies can learn from their approach.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat actually drives ridership growthWhy adding weekend and evening service unlocked new demand How aligning service with real community needs—not assumptions—changes outcomes The role of fare policy, frequency, and accessibility in rebuilding ridership The power of targeted programsHow a youth zero-fare program now drives up to 25–30% of ridership Why investing in younger riders is really about building long-term transit culture How partnerships with schools and state funding made it possible Reliability as the foundationWhy on-time performance is the baseline for trust How Cherriots improved performance to 88% on-time—above their target The operational fixes that made the biggest difference (including reducing early departures) Using technology to modernize the rider experienceReal-time tracking and GTFS-RT deployment Traffic signal priority to improve reliability on high-ridership corridors The importance of clean, accurate data for smarter planning decisions Building a multimodal futureWhy transit agencies need to evolve beyond fixed routes How microtransit, bike share, and partnerships with TNCs fit into the system The goal: becoming a true regional mobility integrator Key TakeawayRidership growth isn’t accidental—it’s the result of intentional service design, strong partnerships, and a relentless focus on reliability and access.As Shofi puts it, success comes from giving people real options—and building a system that fits how they actually live and move today.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinBrand Design: Tina OlagundoyeTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Amanda Vandegrift, Deputy CEO of Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer at WeGo Public Transit in Nashville.This conversation is part of our “The Doers” series—highlighting transit leaders who are not just setting vision, but actively delivering results on the ground.Amanda shares her unique journey from private-sector consultant—where she helped design Nashville’s “Choose How You Move” ballot initiative—to becoming the executive responsible for implementing it inside the agency.With a newly approved funding stream, a growing system, and rising ridership, Nashville offers a real-world case study in how agencies can move from planning to execution—and actually deliver on what voters approved.What You’ll Learn:How to move from a transit referendum to real-world implementationWhat it takes to shift an agency from maintenance mode to growthHow WeGo is achieving double-digit ridership gainsWhy staffing and recruitment must come before expansionHow a low-income fare program can drive access and usageThe role of microtransit partnerships like WeGo Link with UberHow to build financial stability with a $47M reserve fundWhy today’s transit CFO is a strategic operator—not just a numbers roleFrom Ballot to Bus ServiceAmanda played a key role in developing Nashville’s “Choose How You Move” initiative—a half-cent sales tax increase designed to fund billions in transit improvements.Now inside the agency, she’s helping implement:Expanded bus service and increased frequencyNew transit centers and corridor investmentsFirst-mile/last-mile solutions through microtransitA free transit program for qualifying ridersLong-term system growth backed by dedicated fundingThe early results are already showing up, with ridership increases ranging from 10% to 30% as service improves and barriers are removed.Innovation Spotlight: First/Last Mile That WorksWeGo’s partnership model with Uber is helping bridge the gap between riders and fixed-route service:19 service zones (and expanding)$2 rides—or free for eligible usersDirect connections to high-frequency routesDelivered at a relatively low cost to the agencyIt’s a scalable example of how agencies can extend their reach without overextending fixed-route service.Host: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.00:00 Welcome to Nashville00:14 Expansion Culture and CFO Role00:22 Meet Amanda Vandergrift02:15 Working with Steve Bland03:34 Two Agencies One Brand05:08 Contracting and Access Service06:22 From Consultant to CFO08:27 Choose How You Move Wins09:22 Quick Wins and Free Fares11:29 Wego Link Uber Zones

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort explores a question many transit agencies are asking today: Do operators make the best transit leaders?Paul’s guest, Michael Dylan Pal, Director of Public Transit for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) in Buffalo, has lived that journey firsthand.Pal began his career behind the wheel as a bus operator for New York City Transit, eventually rising through the ranks of the MTA, serving in senior leadership roles across multiple agencies, and later helping lead operations at Valley Metro in Phoenix before returning to New York to oversee transit in the Buffalo–Niagara region.In this conversation, Pal reflects on how starting on the front lines shaped his leadership philosophy—and why understanding the daily realities of operators can make a real difference when managing a complex transit system.Today, Pal leads the NFTA Metro system, which provides bus, light rail, and paratransit service to the Buffalo–Niagara region—supporting more than a million residents and carrying roughly 50,000–60,000 riders on a typical weekday. Paul and Michael discuss:How Pal’s career started as a bus operator in Brooklyn What transit leaders can learn from working on the front lines The transition from Phoenix’s desert system to Buffalo’s winter operations Major projects underway in Buffalo, including the DL&W Station redevelopment Plans for the Amherst rail extension The upcoming Bailey Bus Rapid Transit corridor Fleet modernization, electric buses, and future propulsion strategies Pal also shares how Buffalo is experiencing a new wave of investment and growth, and how transit is playing a key role in connecting people to jobs, education, and opportunity across Western New York.For Pal, the lesson is simple: the best transit leaders never forget what it’s like to serve riders and support operators every day.Host: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Welcome to the first part of a series we're calling "The Doers"!Public safety is one of the most urgent issues facing transit systems today. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Kevin Scott, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Security at Bi-State Development / St. Louis Metro Transit, to discuss a bold initiative that is reshaping safety across the region’s light rail network.Scott explains how St. Louis developed its Secure Platform Plan, a comprehensive strategy that combines infrastructure upgrades, technology, and partnerships with law enforcement to strengthen security on the MetroLink light rail system.The results are already striking: stations where the program has been implemented have seen a 50% reduction in criminal incidents and a significant increase in ridership.During the conversation, Scott walks through how the plan evolved from a detailed security assessment that produced 99 recommendations, and how those insights helped guide long-term improvements across the system.The episode also explores the powerful connection between actual safety improvements and the perception of safety — and why both are critical to attracting riders back to transit.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why St. Louis shifted from an open platform light rail system to secured stations How gating, fencing, and expanded CCTV coverage are changing security operations The role of security partnerships with local law enforcement and contracted security teams Why perception of safety matters just as much as actual incident reduction How safer stations are helping drive ridership growth across the system Scott also shares how the agency is upgrading fare collection systems alongside the security infrastructure, creating a modernized transit experience for riders while strengthening enforcement against fare evasion.As transit agencies nationwide prioritize safety and security, the St. Louis experience offers valuable lessons for systems considering similar investments.LinksLearn more about the Secure Platform Plan:https://www.metrostlouis.orgCreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinEditor: Patrick EmileTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

In this special milestone episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort celebrates Episode 400 and nearly a decade of conversations with the leaders shaping public transportation around the world.To kick off the episode, Paul sits down with Mark Miller, President of Constellation Software and Executive Chairman of the Volaris Group. Mark reflects on the early days of the podcast, the thinking behind creating a platform for industry dialogue, and why connecting transit leaders across agencies and continents continues to matter.The episode also features a 10-year retrospective on the growth of Transit Unplugged, including a behind-the-scenes conversation with producer Chris O’Keeffe about the evolution of podcasting, the expansion into on-location recordings and video, and what it takes to reach the rare milestone of 400 episodes.Later in the episode, Executive Producer Julie Gates joins Paul for a listener mailbag segment, answering audience questions about favorite episodes, memorable travel moments, and transit systems that continue to inspire innovation.Over the past decade, Transit Unplugged has featured CEOs, agency leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across the globe—sharing ideas and best practices that help move the industry forward.As Paul reminds listeners in this episode, public transportation is about far more than vehicles and infrastructure. At its core, transit is about serving people and connecting communities.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Transit’s future is all about people.In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort talks with Geisha Ester, Executive Director of the National Transit Institute (NTI) at Rutgers University, about why workforce development has become the industry’s most important investment — and how agencies and professionals can take advantage of it right now.NTI, funded by the Federal Transit Administration, delivers no-cost training for transit professionals across the United States, helping agencies upskill their teams, strengthen succession planning, and prepare for a rapidly changing mobility landscape.Geisha shares:How you and your staff can access free, high-impact NTI coursesThe most in-demand training areas, including procurement, service planning, safety, and leadershipHow agencies are using NTI as a real succession-planning toolThree ways to partner with NTI — as a participant, host agency, or instructorWhy workforce development is central to the industry’s futureShe also tells her remarkable second-generation transit story, from high-school intern and rail conductor at Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to Vice President of Training and Workforce Development — and now national leadership at NTI — and offers practical advice for emerging professionals and women pursuing leadership roles in transit.🎓 Explore courses and get connected: NTIonline.comThis episode closes out our “Fantastic February” series highlighting the people and ideas moving public transportation forward.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Recorded live at the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting, this special episode of Transit Unplugged tackles a big question: Does research actually improve public transportation?Host Paul Comfort is joined by three leaders who are turning studies into real-world results:Art Guzzetti, Vice President, Policy, American Public Transportation Association (APTA)Kate Ko, PhD, Vice President, WSPMichael Walk, Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation InstituteTogether they break down how the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) moves ideas from problem statements to implementation — and why agencies that use research make faster, smarter, and more rider-focused decisions.You’ll hear:The Baltimore bus network redesign that started with a research projectHow automation will reshape — not eliminate — the transit workforceNew funding tools like value capture and congestion pricingThe link between operator culture, health, and retentionWhy accessibility, safety, and customer experience are driving the next wave of studiesThis is a behind-the-scenes look at the evidence, data, and collaboration that quietly power better transit for millions of riders.If you work in transit and aren’t using this research — you’re leaving solutions on the table.CreditsHost and Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Recorded live at the Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, this episode of Transit Unplugged features a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation with Bridgette Beato, Chair of WTS (Women’s Transportation Seminar) and Founder and CEO of Lumenor Consulting Group.Bridgette joins host Paul Comfort to unpack the evolving role of women in public transportation—and the systems, networks, and intentional choices that help leaders thrive at every stage of their careers. From WTS’s nearly 50-year history to its current global footprint of more than 10,000 members, Bridgette explains how the organization attracts, advances, and retains women across all modes of transportation through scholarships, training, mentorship, and community.The conversation also dives into Bridgette’s own career journey, from management information systems and large-scale technology implementations to launching and growing Lumenor Consulting into a multi-disciplinary firm supporting transit agencies across North America. Along the way, she reflects on entrepreneurship born out of necessity, the realities of small business growth in the public sector, and why intentional career planning matters—especially in moments of rapid industry transformation.Paul and Bridgette explore the importance of mentorship, executive peer spaces, and raising your hand for opportunity, as well as the role organizations like WTS play in helping leaders navigate change, loneliness at the top, and the shifting landscape of technology, funding, and innovation in transit.This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking seriously about leadership, equity, and long-term career growth in transportation—and for those looking to understand how community and intention shape the future of the industry.Host + Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O'KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinBrand Design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaIf you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected]: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo, its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.