Transit Unplugged

Transit Unplugged Network

We share the stories, challenges, and successes of the top transit professionals from around the world. Learn how top transit leaders got to where they are with stories and insights from their careers. Get the inside story about public transit and transit trends from the people who run it. Transit Unplugged is hosted and produced by Paul Comfort and brought to you by Modaxo Learn more at https://transitunplugged.com/

  1. 1 HR AGO

    How to Grow Transit Ridership Beyond Pre-Pandemic Levels with Shofi Ull Azum

    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 Episode What actually drives ridership growth Why 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 programs How 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 foundation Why 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 experience Real-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 future Why 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 Takeaway Ridership 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. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Transit 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.

    31 min

  2. MAR 25

    Translating Transit Funding Into Real Service with Amanda Vandegrift

    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 implementation What it takes to shift an agency from maintenance mode to growth How WeGo is achieving double-digit ridership gains Why staffing and recruitment must come before expansion How a low-income fare program can drive access and usage The role of microtransit partnerships like WeGo Link with Uber How to build financial stability with a $47M reserve fund Why today’s transit CFO is a strategic operator—not just a numbers role From Ballot to Bus Service Amanda 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 frequency New transit centers and corridor investments First-mile/last-mile solutions through microtransit A free transit program for qualifying riders Long-term system growth backed by dedicated funding The 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 Works WeGo’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 users Direct connections to high-frequency routes Delivered at a relatively low cost to the agency It’s a scalable example of how agencies can extend their reach without overextending fixed-route service. Host: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 Nashville 00:14 Expansion Culture and CFO Role 00:22 Meet Amanda Vandergrift 02:15 Working with Steve Bland 03:34 Two Agencies One Brand 05:08 Contracting and Access Service 06:22 From Consultant to CFO 08:27 Choose How You Move Wins 09:22 Quick Wins and Free Fares 11:29 Wego Link Uber Zones

    26 min

  3. MAR 18

    Do Operators Make the Best Transit Leaders? Lessons from Michael Dylan Pal

    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 Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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.

    34 min

  4. MAR 11

    Safer Stations, More Riders: How St. Louis Cut Transit Crime by 50%

    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. Links Learn more about the Secure Platform Plan: https://www.metrostlouis.org Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Editor: Patrick Emile Transit 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. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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.

    29 min

  5. MAR 4

    Episode 400: Mark Miller on the Origins of Transit Unplugged — Plus a 10-Year Look Back

    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. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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.

    45 min

  6. FEB 25

    "Our Greatest Asset Is Our Employees”: Geisha Ester on Why Workforce Is the Future of Transit

    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 courses The most in-demand training areas, including procurement, service planning, safety, and leadership How agencies are using NTI as a real succession-planning tool Three ways to partner with NTI — as a participant, host agency, or instructor Why workforce development is central to the industry’s future She 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.com This episode closes out our “Fantastic February” series highlighting the people and ideas moving public transportation forward. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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.

    25 min

  7. FEB 18

    The Real Impact of Transit Research — and How to Use It for Your System

    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, WSP Michael Walk, Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute Together 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 project How automation will reshape — not eliminate — the transit workforce New funding tools like value capture and congestion pricing The link between operator culture, health, and retention Why accessibility, safety, and customer experience are driving the next wave of studies This 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. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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.

    39 min

  8. FEB 11

    “Raise Your Hand.” Bridgette Beato on Power, Mentorship, and Building Careers That Last

    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 Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com 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, 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.

    28 min
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We share the stories, challenges, and successes of the top transit professionals from around the world. Learn how top transit leaders got to where they are with stories and insights from their careers. Get the inside story about public transit and transit trends from the people who run it. Transit Unplugged is hosted and produced by Paul Comfort and brought to you by Modaxo Learn more at https://transitunplugged.com/

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