Transit Unplugged

Six years ago Steve Martingano challenged conventions with his innovative policing strategy at Denver RTD by pairing officers with mental health workers. He saw a lot of police interactions weren't criminal issues, but medical issues. People needed help. They needed medical care. They needed support. They needed housing. Steve talks with Paul about how after six years he's expanding his efforts beyond medical and mental health support to housing and social service access. Steve talks about changing mindsets about the causes and solutions of issues on transit and how it's positively affected the region.Learn how it started, where it is today, and how he continues to help those most vulnerable in his community.We also hear in the news segment about the billions of dollars of funding awarded for low and no emissions plus other infrastructure investments. Elea Carey talks about how to measure the effectiveness of your communications plans and Mike Bismeyer checks in on great work helping others in Orlando, FL.Next week Paul is talking with David Scorey of Keolis about contracting in public transit.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email info@transitunplugged.

Monica Backmon, CEO of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority, has a unique job in the transit world. Her agency plans and funds transportation projects as small as traffic calming and as big as Bus Rapid Transit. And she does it across cities, towns, and counties in Northern Virginia. While often compared to a Municipal Planning Organization, NVTA has no close comparators in the United States. Her responsibility is broad and so is her mandate to help move people across her region. From supporting a town of 123 people to cities of millions with planning and funding, Monica juggles the needs of a diverse set of people in one of the fastest growing regions of the U.S.Her extraordinary vision gives helps with diverse needs and incomes. Those for whom transit is a necessity and those who could use something else. Her goal is to improve transit and the region for a brighter, greener future through better, smarter technology.If you have a comment, question, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email [email protected].

Paul met April Rai, CEO of COMTO (Conference of Minority Transportation Officials) at the recent COMTO conference in Miami. He sat down with April to talk about the origins of COMTO, the challenges transit is facing today, and her vision for how we'll solve them.On Transit Unplugged News and Views this week we also have:Transit news of the weekElea Carey's messaging minuteMike Bismeyer on leadershipUpdates from Paul about his latest book about diversity and inclusion in transitNext week on Transit Unplugged In-Depth our guest will be Monica Backmon, CEO of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority.We'd like to thank all our listeners who nominated us for a Podcast Award; we made the cut! Transit Unplugged is in the voting round and we'll hear the results in September.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected]; and don't forget to sign up for our newsletter on our website!

This week Paul talks with a guest we've wanted to get on the show for a long, long time. When Henry Li arrived in Sacramento, the agency needed to restore both public trust in the system and financial stability for the agency. In his 7 year tenure so far he's launched the first microtransit pilot in the U.S., made the system free for kids in grades K-12, and ensured there was pay equity across his agency. His efforts have clearly paid off, Henry was named APTA CEO of the year in 2019 and SacRT was named APTA agency of the year in 2021.In his career that has taken him from Atlanta to Jacksonville and now Sacramento, Henry has shown he knows how to create a transit system that lifts his entire community up and provides opportunities for all. When he bought new light rail cars for his system, they were built at the Siemens plant in Sacramento, giving his region better transit and an economic boost.While SacRT is still bouncing back from the pandemic, his microtransit solution continues to be successful and filling gaps in his 100 square mile service area. Listen to this conversation and learn about the microtransit solution, light rail, and the new payment systems Henry has brought to his agency. Learn more about SacRT on their website.Next week on Transit Unplugged News and View, April Rei, CEO of COMTO will be joining Paul talking about the work she does supporting minorities in transit leadership.Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter to get all the latest about Transit Unplugged. If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Alva Carrasco and Herold Humphrey are on a mission. A mission to increase the visibility, opportunities, and voice of Latinos in public transit. And not just when talking about issues, but more importantly in leadership positions to help the communities they serve. Alva and Herold talk with Paul about the origins of Latinos In Transit from a casual group of people working in the same industry to an organized force to encourage and support Latinos in their careers.From advocacy and mentorship to scholarships and networking, Alva Carrasco, President, and Herold Humphrey, Vice President, have a vision to ensure Latinos have a seat at the decision-making table, the boardroom, and C-suite. Listen to their story on this episode of Transit Unplugged News and Views.Also on the show:Paul covers the transit news of the weekElea Carey talks about back to school messagingMike Bismeyer on fostering the next generation of leadersPaul talks about the Transit Center report on the four things needed to help solve the bus operator crisis.Next week we have Henry Li, CEO of the Sacramento Regional Transit District on the show. It's not too late to nominate Transit Unplugged at the Podcast Awards in the Government and Organizations category. Nominations close July 30!If have a question, comment, or be a guest on Transit Unplugged email us at [email protected].

Matt Tucker, Executive Director and CEO of the North County Transit District covers a huge geographic area north of San Diego. From buses to rail to a new hybrid light rail, Matt has served his region for over a decade with big plans for the future. Matt and Paul talk about all the different transportation modes, Matt's plans for going green with battery electric and hydrogen, and hints at his plans for the future of the agency.One of the longest-serving CEOs in public transit, Matt has a unique perspective on public transit from work on both coasts with projects large and small. In his 14 years as Executive Director and CEO of North County Transit District, Matt has perspective about the past, current, and future challenges for public transit in his region and beyond.Next week Paul is chatting with April Rei, CEO of COMTO, one of two great conversations coming from the recent COMTO Conference.

This week Paul talks with Wiebe Wakker, sustainable adventurer about his three-year trip from the Netherlands to Australia in an EV--with no money--and then how he traveled from the Netherlands to Dubai (most) on public transport to give a keynote speech at UITP MENA earlier this year. It's a fascinating story of someone who admits wasn't really into sustainability when he started but has now become a champion for it.Learn more about Wiebe on:His Plug Me In websiteFacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedInAlso on the show the latest public transit news, Elea Carey's Messaging Minute, Mike's Minute with Mike Bismeyer, and Paul's look at the future of transit.Next week on the show we have Matt Tucker, Executive Director and CEO of the North County Transit District talking about his multi-modal system and how they are adapting to changing ridership.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged email us at [email protected] take a moment to nominate us in the Government and Organizations category in the Podcast Awards. Nominating us not only gets us to the voting round, but also factors into who wins the award!

Charlotte Shaw, CEO of Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority, has deep experience in getting things done. From project and program management to capital planning, Charlotte is the person who makes a transit vision a reality. After years at MARTA, she came to Birmingham to manage building a bus rapid transit (BRT) for the city before it would be handed over to BJCTA. But as she tells Paul, the transit authority thought she'd be just the right person to bring BJCTA into a new era of transit.Listen to Charlotte tell Paul how she got into transit and her vision for creating a transit system that does more than just get people places.Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views, Paul is talking with Wiebe Wakker who drove an electric car from the Netherlands to New Zealand to show how efficient and reliable EVs are.It's podcast award season! Please help Transit Unplugged win a People's Choice podcast award by nominating us in the "Government and Organizations" category. Visit PodcastAwards.com to nominate us to make it to the voting round. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter on the website and if you'd like to ask a question or be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

This week Paul talks with Sam Morrissey from Urban Movement Labs in LA about their mandate to help the city navigate the changing face of transportation. When scooters came to the city, there were issues with where to ride them--not on the sidewalks, but maybe not the road either--and how to return them. As new transportation technologies emerge, Urban Movement Labs serves as a trusted partner working with the city and private companies to deploy new technologies the right way.Also on the show:Transit industry newsElea Carey's Messaging Minute on keeping your agency messaging freshMike's Minute with Mike Bismeyer on what it means to be a leader and mentor with insights from PaulPaul's Future of Transit segment on his new role at Modaxo and his new book coming out later this yearNext week on the show we have Charlotte Shaw, CEO of the Birmingham - Jefferson County Transit Authority as our guest on Transit Unplugged In Depth. Don't forget to sign up for the Transit Unplugged newsletter on the website to always be in the know about what's happening with the show. If you have a question, comment, or you'd like to be a guest on the show, email [email protected].

Sam Snead is looking towards the future of transportation in Anne Arundel County, MD. From solar-lit bus stops to websites to full system maps, Sam sees up-to-date technology as crucial to success in his region. Paul talks with Sam about his career journey and then gets into Sam's ambitious Move Anne Arundel transit master plan looking forward to create sustainable, accessible, and green transit solutions for the county.Creating a robust transit system in smaller and more spread-out areas is always a challenge, but Sam's plans to tap into local, regional, and micro transit solutions have created a solid foundation for his county to build on.Don't forget to subscribe to the Transit Unplugged newsletter to be first to know about new shows and announcements about the podcast and TUTV!If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected]

This week on Transit Unplugged News & Views, Paul is talking with Tom Wright of the Regional Plan Association (RPA) about planning for the future in the New York Metropolitan area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut). Over its 100 year history, RPA has put a stake in the ground for what needs to be done to build and sustain the region. As Tom says, all of their recommendations are implemented--eventually. Tom talks about the RPA vision for what's needed in the region to grow in the post-pandemic era and how cities, states, and the U.S. federal government need to look at and coordinate their efforts. The region is already behind the eight ball to catch up, it will take a lot of work to put things on track.Also on this week's show:Transit news of the week including news about frequent guests Mark Wilde and Julie TimmElea Carey on communicating planning and changeMike Bismeyer wants to hear your leadership storiesIf you want to stay in touch make sure you sign up for email updates on the website. If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected]

Melinda Metzger is the first female Executive Director for Pace Suburban Bus, one of the largest bus and paratransit systems in the United States covering 3,500 square miles and serving 272 communities. On this week's Transit Unplugged In Depth, Melinda and Paul talk about how the great resignation has impacted public transit and how local partnerships are combating those effects. To get more bus operators at Pace, they are covering the cost of tuition at a local community college to help people get their Commercial Drivers License (CDL) and be ready to start training at Pace to become full bus operators.Get a glimpse of what the future of electrification looks like in the Chicago area as Pace gears up to reach zero emissions by 2040. You'll also hear about a brand new Pace bus facility opened by Secretary Buttigieg, and what our next generation of riders is prioritizing in their daily commutes.Catch us next week to hear Tom Wright, president and CEO of RPA regional planning association. RPA focuses on improving the prosperity, sustainability, and livability of people in the New York Metropolitan Area.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Jen Shepherd is passionate about public transit. As GM of Uber Transit she is responsible for helping agencies move more people, more flexibly, and more cost-effectively. In her chat with Paul, Jen talks about how Uber provides agencies tools to balance demand and resources with on-demand capacity when it wouldn't make sense to have an agency-owned vehicle on the route. One of the most exciting ways Uber is helping transit agencies is adding flexible paratransit capacity with the recently announced partnership with Trapeze, integrating Trapeze TripBroker with Uber Transit. Listen to the whole episode to hear how it works for riders and agencies. Also in this episode:Transit news of the week including the new interim CEO at Cap MetroElea Carey on crisis communicationsMike Bismeyer on leadership and leading through the pandemicNext week Melinda Metzger Executive Director of PACE Suburban Bus joins Paul for Transit Unplugged In-Depth.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Northeast Maglev has a vision for bringing fast--really, really fast--rail service to the Northeast Corridor (Boston to Washington D.C.). This week Paul talks with Wayne Rogers, Chairman and CEO of the Baltimore Washington Rapid Rail, LLC, and Northeast Maglev, LLC, about his vision for what maglev trains could do for the region.Faster than steel wheel-based trains, maglev trains use superconducting magnets to propel trains along at up to 311 miles an hour. Already running in Japan, where the service is wildly successful, bringing this level of train service would mean being able to get from New York City to Washington D.C. in an hour.Many of the trips people take today by car or plane could be eliminated if the Northeast Corridor gets maglev up and running. Maglev would reduce congestion, pollution, and pressure on the highway system as the region grows. The U.S. has been looking at maglev rail for decades and Northeast Maglev started working on this project ten years ago. The environmental reviews are almost complete and they are looking to get the project up and running soon. In the episode, you'll hear about the project, the technology, and what we've learned from the successful maglev train in Japan.Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views, we'll have Jen Shepard, GM of Uber Transit on the show talking about microtransit and paratransit options.If you have a comment, question, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Christiaan Blake is responsible for the business of offering paratransit services that balance accommodation and sustainability. Christiaan needs to serve the most people he can with paratransit, while also creating accessible fixed-route transit that is open to all. One of the tricks up Christiaan's sleeve is his innovative rider's choice program where, if paratransit riders opt into using a taxi or service like Uber for their ride, their ride could be randomly chosen to be free. Armed with an array of spreadsheets, Christiaan has gone to great pains to make sure the process is fair and random, This has proven to be very popular--so popular people clamor for more free rides--and lets Christiaan accommodate last-minute trips, staying longer, or leaving earlier than planned.This is a big job and Christiaan takes his role and place in transit seriously. He sees paratransit as a crucial safety net for people who can't be served with even WMATA's accessible fixed-route and subway system.Also on the show, we have the latest transit news, Elea Carey talks about sharing employee stories and Mike Bismeyer challenges us to do something good in the cities we visit while traveling for work.All this on this week's Transit Unplugged News and Views. Sit back and listen in.

This week Paul is talking with Eulois Cleckley, Director and CEO of the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works. Eulois manages everything from buses, trains, microtransit, and even exploring urban air mobility--yes, flying cars--along with all the roads and bridges in his county. Eulois is undertaking a massive update of the county's 3000 intersections with smart signaling technology to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in one of the nation's most car-centric areas.And this also happens to be our 200th episode of Transit Uplugged! Here's to another 200!Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views, Christiaan Blake of WMATA talks about access to transit and mobility.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us anytime at [email protected].

In our 199th episode, Paul talks with Luc Richard, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Réseau de transport de la Capitale, in Quebec City, Quebec. Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America and one of the snowiest too. RTC delivers bus service year-round with winter weather that would shut down many transit systems. Now looking ahead to creating a more inclusive transit system, RTC created its own electric-assist bike-share service and zone-based microtransit solution for the suburban parts of the city.RTC is also working on electrified tram, light-rail system for the city on one of the busiest corridors where keeping buses on time is a huge challenge. On the horizon is their conversion to zero emissions buses (ZEB), which given the winters in Quebec will present some unique challenges. Next week on our 200th episode, Paul is chatting with Eulois Checkley Director and CEO of the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works. South Florida has some of the most interesting and innovative transit programs from planning to implementation. This is an episode you won't want to miss.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Steve Poftak is leading the MBTA during unprecedented times. Three years into the job he's managed through a pandemic and invested billions into revamping bus and rail service across the system. The T--North America's oldest subway--is growing and adapting to new rider patterns and on the commuter rail side, he's made changes to make the largest commuter rail system in America a regional rail system people can use throughout the day to get into and out of the city.Listen to Paul and Steve talk about the past and future of the MBTA on this week's Transit Unplugged In-depth.Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views Paul chats with Luc Ricard of RTC in Quebec City about his system in Quebec's provincial capital.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected]

Frequent guest Rich Sampson, Executive Director of the Southwest Transit Association, sat with Paul to give him the latest updates from D.C. on transit funding. With fiscal year 2022 appropriations set, agencies now know about their new formula fund amounts and new funding grants available to them.Elea Carey talks about how to include the leaders in your communities in your transit marketing plans. Mike Bismeyer takes a moment to thank the people who put themselves in harm's way to keep transit safe.Next week we have Steve Poftak of MBTA on the show and talks with Paul from the recent Smart Transit conference.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected].

Adelee Le Grand is a long-time transit rider. Growing up in New York, Adelee says taking transit was like brushing your teeth and toothpaste--you just did it, it's always there. Transit was how you got places and experienced things. Like Terry White, and more than a few of our guests, Adelee has spent her entire career associated with transit and moving people. You can hear Adelee's passion for transit in her descriptions of her life in New York and contrasting that with cities like Atlanta or Tampa.When the funding for transit isn't there, people just don't have the same access to opportunities she did growing up.Many of our guests talk about the ins and outs of transit, routes, planning, frequency, but Adelee also talks about why are the buses people ride still built and designed like it's the 1980s? Or why do agencies wrap buses in advertisements for revenue and what does that say about your own branding?Her creative, collaborative spirit building HART, an agency that's had several CEOs in the past few years, speaks volumes about her and, as she says, her calling to work in transit.Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views, Paul is chatting with frequent guest Rich Sampson of SWTA.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Sara Stickler, CEO of WTS International, chats with Paul on International Women's Day about her work supporting and creating opportunities for women in transit. Founded in the 1970s as a group providing seminars and training--since women were discouraged from joining "associations"--WTS International strives to increase opportunities for women in the transit industry. Many of the women leaders on this show--Leslie Richards, Nadine Lee, Inez Evans, and Nuria Fernandez--have all participated in WTS International over the years.Paul and Sara talk about WTS, getting involved with chapters, their scholarship program, and the future plans for the organization.Also on this week's show, Paul talks about new funding from the U.S. Federal government, a hot transit company listing on the NASDAQ, and reflects on the recent ThinkTransit conference. We also hear from Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer on communications and kindness.Next week Adelee LeGrand of HART in Tampa talks about her career and her agency on Transit Unplugged In-Depth.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

This week Paul talks with Darren Kettle, CEO of Metrolink in Southern California. Not long in the job at Metrolink, Darren is a long-time transit veteran coming from Ventura County Transportation Commission and is looking forward to building and improving a critical piece of California's public transit system. Metrolink will be a key part of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, connecting many of the venues together. In the meantime, buoyed by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Darren is investing in his system. He's expanding and improving and doing critical work to maintain Metrolink for years to come.Darren told Paul--and this is a Transit Unplugged exclusive--that Metrolink is 100% fossil-fuel-free for its diesel vehicles. From non-revenue to the locomotives themselves, Metrolink runs entirely on bio-diesel. This is just one step in California's ambitious climate plan to reduce carbon emissions and get to zero emissions before other parts of the U.S.Correction and update: Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views we'll have Sara Stickler, CEO of WTS International on the show.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, feel free to email us at [email protected].

This week on Transit Unplugged News and Views Paul talks with Patrick Goddard, President of Brightline Trains about high-speed rail in Florida. Brightline Trains is the only privately-held high-speed rail service in the U.S. and serves as a vital connection between South and Central and beyond. Brightline serves the niche getting people to places that are too far to drive, but too short to fly. The end goal is to make people less car-dependent; move people from their cars to something faster and more convenient. Brightline even has a door-to-door service that will get you from home to destination and back, letting you just leave your car at home.We also hear from Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer bringing your dose of communications and leadership insights.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected]

Continuing the series of interviews from the UITP MENA Congress and Expo earlier this year, Paul speaks with Mohammed Salim Al Ghafri, COO of Mwasalat in the Sultanate of Oman on how he's creating a transit culture in a country where private cars are cheap and affordable.One of the newer transit agencies in the world, Mwasalat manages the bus and ferry service connecting the major cities in Oman to each other and neighboring countries like the UAE.It's been an uphill battle to get people to switch from the convenience of private cars to public transit, but with satisfaction and on-time performance both above 90%, they are clearly doing something right!Next week on Transit Unplugged News and Views, Patrick Goddard of Brightline Trains talks with Paul about connecting cities too close to fly, but too far to drive to across Florida and California.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, feel free to email us anytime at [email protected]

Noormah Noor, CEO of Express Rail Link in Malaysia has accomplished something that very few people have done--create an award-winning, world-class, and economically viable high-speed rail service. ERL runs between Kuala Lumpur and the airport connecting downtown for travelers and everyday commuters. Her service offers nonstop service, including airport check-in , from downtown to the airport. And if you'd like a white glove experience, their VIP service brings you door to door including handling your luggage.Noormah focused her energy not just on running a great service, but also running a viable service as well. Working as part of a government contract ERL designed, built, maintains, and operates the system. ERL was able to weather the Asian financial crisis by making sure she built a system based on sound business principles.And it's paid off. Winning award after award, ERL is an example for the world for how to operate high speed rail effectively.This week we also hear from Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer with their regular segments.If have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected] make sure you join the Transit Unplugged crew at ThinkTransit in Forth Worth, March 20-23.

Terry White, General Manager of King County Metro, is a life-long public transit rider in his hometown of Seattle, Washington. He relied on transit to get him to school and work, buoyed by his mother her stack of timetables. If it wasn't for public transit, Terry wouldn't be where he is today. The experience of relying on transit and growing up on the system--including turning the signs on the bus--instilled a life-long passion for transit and a clear career path (although he never did become a bus operator).Terry and Paul talk about his career journey and his vision for equitable transit that lifts up entire communities. He believes when you lift up and support those who rely on transit the most, everyone benefits. From his strong roots in social justice to his vision for new technology enabling transit, Terry has big plans for King County Metro.Terry is also the keynote speaker on the first day of the ThinkTransit conference, and we get a small taste of what he'll be talking about in his keynote later in March.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us anytime at [email protected].

Paul was at the UITP Middle East North Africa Conference and Expo in Dubai, UAE recently and this is the first of several interviews from his trip.The first is with Alexander Pazuchanics, Head of Policy & Partnerships at Vianova I/O. Alexander and Paul talk about something we don't hear much about these days, ever really--managing curb space. Not just for parking, but travel and making the best use of this public space throughout the day.We also hear from Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer this week with communications and kindness.Finally, Paul gives us a rundown of where he'll be speaking and visiting this Spring. All this on this week's Transit Unplugged News & Views.If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Here's part two of our Legacy Leaders Series (listen to part 1) where Paul taps into decades of leadership, perspective, and insight from some of the foremost leaders in the public transit industry.In this episode we hear from:Paul ToliverGrace CrunicanPeter VargaMike ScanlonThe advice in this episode is second to none and everyone, no matter your role, can take something away from this to do their jobs better.Next week we bring the first in a series of interviews Paul recorded while at the UITP MENA Conference and Expo in Dubai.If you have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

Have you ever wondered how people get training on running a public transit agency? Public transit is a very complex business/service to run, so how do you learn everything you need to know?The answer is the National Transit Institute at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. Paul talks with Executive Director Billy Terry about NTI and everything it does.Like having to switch from 98% in-person classes taught around the U.S. to 100% virtual classes taught remotely.We also hear from Elea Carey on how to get your message out quickly and Mike Bismeyer on conferences as essential parts of staying current in your field.We wrap this episode with Tris, Paul, and Randi talking about the upcoming Executive Summit at ThinkTransit this March 20-23.See the detailed show notes on TransitUnplugged.com for links to news mentioned in the show, a full transcript, and more about ThinkTransit.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

This is the first of two special episodes where Paul chats with some of the leading figures in public transit. These are the people who built the foundations and set the standards for how public transit is done.Their perspectives are absolutely not to be missed.On part one of the series are:Paul ToliverFred GilliamRobert PrinceRod DiridonSee the full show notes on TransitUnplugged.com for their links and contact information.Next week on Transit Unplugged News & Views we have Bill Terry, Executive Director of the National Transit Institute at Rutgers and the following week we have part two of the Legacy Leaders series with Peter Varga, Grace Crunican, Mike Scanlon, and Paul Toliver

In the public transit industry, we are all standing on the shoulders of giants. People who set the stage for the progress we're making now. The next several episodes on Transit Unplugged epitomize this fact looking back powering our way forward.This week Paul talks with Karen Philbrick, Executive Director of the Mineta Transportation Institute. Named for Secretary Norman Mineta, the Institute conducts and supports research on a wide range of public transportation topics and issues.In their interview, Karen and Paul talk about some of the hot trends and big challenges facing the industry now. We get an insider's look into some of the most forward-thinking work in public transit today.We also hear from Elea Carey on prepping your leaders for interviews and Mike Bismeyer on finding and tapping the next generation of transit leaders.Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged is the first of two Legacy Leaders episodes. Next week we have Rod Diridon, Paul Toliver, Fred Gilliam, and Robert Prince on the show. If you have a question, comment, or like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, feel free to email us anytime [email protected].

On today's special edition of Transit Unplugged. We want it to honor the memory of Jeff Parker, CEO of MARTA in Atlanta, after his recent tragic death. He was a strong leader for his city and our industry, and will be sorely missed. Original show notes from February, 2020:“While we have to think about the future, we also have to think about the here and now and making sure that we’re improving the customer experience.”Atlanta and the surrounding area is the third fastest-growing region in the U.S. That means more people and more traffic, so public transit is essential to help boost the economic vitality and development of the region along with reducing congestion.Jeffrey Parker, GM and CEO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), joins Transit Unplugged to talk about the present and future for the agency. Parker discusses the importance of MARTA becoming a more customer-centric organization – improving the reliability of the bus service, implementing new bus stops, and renovating rail stations are just part of this larger picture. Additionally, he highlights MARTA’s plans for new bus rapid transit and light rail services, and how it is essential to still focus on state of good repair while expanding service.If you want to know more about MARTA, check out their website. If you are having thoughts of suicide, there are people to listen and help. Here are just a few of the resources in the U.S. and Canada you can reach out to. Call a friend, send a text, send a message, but whatever you do, just reach out. You're not alone. There are people out there ready to help you.Canada Suicide Prevention Service, part of Crisis Services Canada.If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, the Canada Suicide Prevention Service is available 24/7 for voice and 4pm to 12am ET for text.Call 1-833-456-4566 for help in English. In Quebec call 1-866-277-3553. Or text 45645.U.S. National Suicide Prevention LifelineNATIONAL: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 1-800-273-8255.TEXT: Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential. 

This week Paul catches up with Laura Koprowski, CEO of Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) and they talk about Laura's plan to revitalize TARTA with a new leadership team, new branding, and a new focus on customer experience.Laura and Paul also talk about the successful ballot measures that will help TARTA expand service and have a stable financial future.Next week, Paul interviews Karen Philbrick of the Mineta Institute with her views on public transit.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

This week we have a special double interview episode on Transit Unplugged News and Views. Paul, and special guest Mischa Wanek-Libman Executive Editor of Mass Transit Magazine, speak with two of Mass Transit's 40 Under 40 honorees.We start the show with Shofi Ull Azum, MBA, Operational Innovations and Performance Manager, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), followed by Brittney M. Farr, Esq., Director of Government Relations, Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA).These two rising stars talk about their career progression, their roles, and their views on the future of transit.Between each interview, Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer continue themes from the interviews to talk about employee recognition and mentorship.Next week Paul interviews Laura Koprowski, CEO of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) in our second Transit Unplugged episode of the year.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected].

This week Paul chats with Kevin Quinn, CEO of TransLink in Vancouver, BC. Kevin succeeded Paul as CEO of MTA Baltimore and now is the head of a multi-city transit network in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.Kevin talks about managing North America's largest autonomous subway systems (SkyTrain), the major expansion projects underway, and life in Vancouver.Next week on Transit Unplugged Paul interviews two of Mass Transit Magazine's 40 Under 40 with Mass Transit Magazine's Executive Editor Mischa Wanek-Libman.Don't forget the first episode of Transit Unplugged TV premiers Friday, January 14th! Subscribe to our Transit Unplugged TV YouTube channel now so you'll know exactly when it appears!If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected]

It's the end of the year and the last episode of Transit Unplugged for 2021.This is a really special episode with Paul Comfort convening a panel with our producer Tris Hussey, regular contributors Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer, and a special guest Mike Dukart, Dir. of Sales at TripSpark.On the show, we talk about what are going to be the hottest trends in 2022, and a little look back at the past year. We hope you enjoy it.Next week (and next year), we'll have Kevin Quinn the new CEO at TransLink in Vancouver, BC, Canada on the show.If you have comments, questions, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at [email protected] next week, we hope you've had a wonderful holiday and have a happy New Year.

Welcome to our second special episode of Transit Unplugged, the Best of Transit Unplugged In-Depth.In this episode, you'll hear excerpts from five of the best interviews this year. You'll hear ...Anne Graham, National Transport Authority, Ireland (full episode)Ahmed Bahrozyan, Road and Transport Authority, Dubai, UAE (full episode)Leslie Richards, SEPTA (full episode)Nat Ford, Jacksonville Transport Authority (full episode)Jeremy Yap, Land Transport Authority, Singapore (full episode)Next week we'll have a special end-of-year panel looking ahead to the biggest trends in public transit for 2022.If you have comments, questions, or would like to be a guest email anytime at [email protected].

Kicking off a trio of special episodes on Transit Unplugged is a transit tech episode with guest host Tris Hussey.Tris interviews Daniel Saddy, Director of (IT) Architecture at Trapeze about cyber and computer security at transit agencies with real, concrete advice on how agencies can help protect themselves.Then we have a special technology expert panel with Sebastian Vaitus, VP of Innovation at Vontas, Priyanka Palacholla, Sr. Director of New Product Initiatives at Vontas, Tyler Dvorak, Product Director Mobility Planning at Trapeze, and Sabrina Blais, Product Manager for Safety at Trapeze talking about what they think will be the hottest transit tech trends next year.Next week we'll have a special Best of 2021 episode and the last episode of the year will be a special panel looking at the future of transit joining Paul and Tris.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us anytime at [email protected].

Paul returns to the island nation of Singapore to chat with Mr. Lee Ling Wee, Deputy Group CEO and President, International, SMRT Corporation. Like his earlier interview with Jeremy Yap earlier this year, the conversation focuses on how Singapore and SMRT are innovating and pushing towards a low/no emissions future.Paul sets the stage for the interview with Trapeze General Manager for the ASEAN region Frank Hesse. Frank makes his home in Kuala Lumpur and offers great context into public transit in the entire Southeast Asian region.Next week on Transit Unplugged, we'll have a special transit technology episode with a look at cybersecurity and a panel of experts on what the tech trends will be in 2022.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected].

In our final episode from APTA EXPO 2021, Paul chats with Jane Grogg, Director of Sarasota County Area Transit.If there was one singular thing that is the hallmark of the post-COVID transit world, it's on-demand microtransit. Jane Grogg replaced fixed routes that had lower ridership and replaced them with on-demand microtransit.And it's been a smashing success!Typically these low ridership fixed routes also tend to have big headways (30 minutes or more between buses), which means people aren't really excited about taking transit when almost anything else would be faster.But replace that fixed route with flexible and adaptable on-demand and people see how convenient it is to leave their car at home and take transit.Listen to this super interview with Jane, plus Elea Carey and Mike Bismeyer give us their insights this week.To wrap the show, Paul gives you a peek behind the curtain at what we have coming up over the next three months.If you have comments, questions, or would like to be a guest on the show, email us anytime at [email protected]

Update: An audio issue kept one of the panelists from being heard. We've pushed out an updated audio track.In the second of three APTA EXPO special episodes, this week it's the highlight of the week--the special panel of the 5 top women leading transit today.Nadine Lee (CEO, Dallas DART), Leslie Richards (CEO, SEPTA), Lauren Skiver (CEO, SunLine Transit), MJ Maynard (CEO, RTC SNV), and Bacarra Sanderson Mauldin (Chief of Staff, MATA Transit) shared the stage and talked about their visions of transit, life as a leader, and career advice for anyone who aspires to step into their shoes.The audience around the Trapeze-Vontas booth was in rapt attention for the entire panel, and now you can too.This episode will also air as the third episode of Transit Unplugged TV in 2022.

Paul and Tris were at APTA EXPO 2021 in Orlando, FL last week and recorded several interviews while they were there.From "Get to Know the GM" with the heads of Vontas and Trapeze Group and interviews with transit leaders to our amazing panel of amazing women leading transit agencies in the U.S., Paul and Tris covered a lot of ground in a few days.This week we highlight two of the interviews from those three days.First up is Chris Harris, Associate Director of Transportation at Auburn University in Alabama talking with Paul about running a transit system for students at the university.That interview is followed by Tris interviewing Lauren Cochran Scoville, VP of Sales at Proterra, and what agencies need to know before going green with low and no emissions vehicles.Next week on Transit Unplugged In-Depth we'll have segments from the Women Leaders in Transit Panel recorded live at the Trapeze-Vontas booth.Visit the full post for complete show notes and a transcript, with links to our new social media profiles on TransitUnplugged.com.

This week's episode comes to you from Las Vegas, Nevada when Paul visited RTC of Southern Nevada CEO MJ Maynard and her team. These segments are excerpted from the upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episode--the first episode for Transit Unplugged TV.Also in this episode are Deputy CEOs Francis Julien and David Swallow as well as Antonette Braddock who talks about RTC's new mobile app for their network.At RTC MJ Maynard and her team are doing great things for their community. They used COVID relief funds to bring service to a public transit desert in the desert with on-demand microtransit, kept essential runs and operators running during the pandemic, and continued their pilot/program with an autonomous vehicle shuttle from downtown to the medical center.MJ Maynard was also a part of the women leaders in transit panel just held at APTA EXPO 2021 (and a future episode of Transit Unplugged In-Depth and Transit Unplugged TV).If you have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected]. 

Welcome to season 5! Kicking off Season 5, Episode 1 we have a chat with Roger Helmy, Director of Product Management at Modaxo. Then Paul talks with regular contributor Mike Bismeyer about his Kindness is Cool campaign.We hear from Elea Carey on how to keep your messaging relevant and top of mind for riders.And finally, Paul and Tris talk about everything going on at APTA EXPO 2021.Paul will be at the Trapeze-Vontas booth (booth 353) talking with GMs Teresa Domingo and Peter Aczel from 11-12:30 on Monday. We'll be taping a live Transit Unplugged segment at the Tripspark booth (booth 769) at 1:30.Tuesday is the big day with the live CEO roundtable at 11:30 then Cocktails with Comfort at 3:00 where we celebrate 4 years of Transit Unplugged and show the Transit Unplugged TV teaser.You can learn more about what's on tap at APTA EXPO 2021 on the Trapeze-Vontas APTA EXPO 2021 event page. Links mentioned in the post:Paul's post on steps to safetyPink Shirt DayIf you have questions, feedback, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected]. 

This week's show is an edited re-broadcast of the UITP and Trapeze-sponsored Connected Journeys webinar from earlier this summer.Paul leads a discussion with:Abimbola Akinajo, CEO, Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO, Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)Djan Fanny, Director of Operations, AMUGAAbout what they are doing to promote public transit and develop more integrated, connected journeys in their cities.This episode brings home how, around the world, all transit agencies face the same challenges getting people to choose transit over private cars. The innovations the panelists are bringing in--like loyalty card programs and autonomous taxis--are truly innovative tools we all need to take note of.Next week on Transit Unplugged, Paul talks with frequent contributor Mike Bismeyer about his Kindness is Cool campaign and his recent CUTA award. Then Paul will talk with Modaxo's Roger Helmy about innovations in transit and what their vision of the future of transit is.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us any time at [email protected]. 

This is a very special Transit Unplugged News and Views. This week we not only hear from Katrina Heineking and W.C. Pihl from Transdev about autonomous vehicles, but Paul reveals all the things going on at APTA EXPO in a few weeks.In the news segment, Paul gives you all the details on what's going on with Transit Unplugged, Transit Unplugged TV, and the other places you can find him at APTA EXPO. If you'd like to stay in the loop about everything that's going on, and get reminders when events are happening, sign up for updates on the Trapeze APTA EXPO microsite.Next, we hear from Katrina and W.C. about everything Transdev is doing with Waymo in the autonomous vehicle space. Finally we hear from Mike about mentorship. Mentorship is one of the most fulfilling things you can do in your career. If you have the chance to do it, take it.If you have questions, comments, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged feel free to email us any time at [email protected] transcript for this episode is available on TransitUnplugged.com.

Paul travelled to Nashville, TN to talk with Nashville MTA CEO Steve Bland and his leadership team about all the improvements and innovations they've done in the past year. From safety to route planning to stations and stops, there is little that they haven't improved on.Which is, of course, music to our ears.This episode was also filmed for an upcoming episode of Transit Unplugged TV. People you will hear:Steve Bland, Nashville MTA CEOApproaches to COVID Response and Workplace Safety – Nick OldhamBetter Bus and Service Restoration Reshuffling – Felix Castrodad and Katie FreudbergStop Improvement Program and the Nolensville Pike Bike/Transit Corridor – Trey Walker and Lydia BendaTransit Signal Priority and our Emerging Headway Management System in the Charlotte Corridor – Dan Freudberg & Lydia BendaWeGo Link – Dan FreudbergTelling our Story and Getting Riders Back – Renuka ChristophNext week we're getting behind the wheel of micro transit with Waymo and Transdev.

One of the biggest challenges at transit agencies during the pandemic has been making sure there was enough money to stay in operation. In New Mexico, the Department of Transportation took a unique approach that underscores the spirit of cooperation we found throughout the transit industry.They funded the operating expenses for the 21 transit agencies in the state and were able to do that because the three largest agencies in the state agreed to forego their share of federal funding to help the other 18 agencies.David Harris, Director of Transit and Rail Division in the New Mexico Department of Transportation tells Paul how this unique funding plan came together and how his state of 2 million people is connected by bus and rail.Next week we have a special episode from Nashville, Tennesee and hear from not just the head of the agency, but his executive team as well. The interviews from the episode will also air as one of the upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episodes, along with extra behind-the-scenes footage of the agency and the city.If you have a question, feedback, or want to be a guest on the show, you can email us at [email protected]. Until next week, ride safe and ride happy.

As a woman in transit and the tech industry, it’s not every day that you get to see female leaders in transit share how they got to where they are today and the hurdles they had to overcome to do so. Transit has traditionally been a male-dominated industry; and years ago, it would’ve been rare to see a female CEO rise up the ranks.It’s inspiring that that’s no longer the case.On today’s episode of Transit Unplugged, we put together more than just an interview with one female transit leader – for the first time ever, we brought together an all-female panel from leaders on transit in the land down under, to talk about their journeys, share career advice, and learn from their inspiring stories.Four years ago, I was one of the individuals behind the scenes that worked with Paul Comfort to create the Transit Unplugged podcast. To witness the evolution of where we started to where we are today encourages me to continue to shoot for the stars and shows me the power of female leadership in such an important industry.That’s why this note might sound a little different than our other show notes. Normally they’re written by our producer, Tris Hussey, but for today’s all-female show, I decided to peek out from behind the curtain and share a few words about what episodes like this, and stories like these, mean to a young female and dare-I-say leader in transit.I hope you enjoy the episode and share it – more people need to hear these stories.Now, I’ll head back behind the scenes!Vicky Abihsira, Director of Integrated Marketing, Trapeze GroupThis week's guests are:Magda Robertson, General Manager, Torrens ConnectCatherine Baxter, COO Metro TrainsSamantha Abeydeera, Executive Director Strategic Operations, Transport for New South WalesMichelle Batsas, Executive Director, UITP, Australia and New Zealand who also hosts the Women Who Move Nations podcastNext week on Transit Unplugged News and Views we have David Harris Director of Transport and Rail for the Department of Transportation in New Mexico.If you want to get in touch with the show, be a guest, or have feedback, you can email us at [email protected].

More and more agencies are going green and reducing their carbon emissions. There are lots of ways to get there, but one that isn't talked about often is hydrogen fuel cell electric buses.Karl Gnadt of Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District is serious about going zero emissions. And truly zero emissions. In October his agency will open its solar-powered hydrogen generating and fueling complex and deploy its first hydrogen fuel cell electric buses. Making this deployment truly zero emissions. No fossil fuels will be burned to power these buses. A truly fantastic achievement.Paul, of course, has his usual transit industry news update and at the end of the show, he reveals some exciting changes coming to the show.If you have feedback, comments, or like to be on the show, just drop us a line at [email protected].