Transit Unplugged

Transit Unplugged

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. Brisbane’s Dynamic Transit System with City Councillor Ryan Murphy

    2 DAYS AGO

    Brisbane’s Dynamic Transit System with City Councillor Ryan Murphy

    In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort interviews Ryan Murphy, the Chair of the City Council's Transportation Committee in Brisbane, while riding one of Brisbane’s famous CityCat ferries to talk about the vibrant and evolving transit system in this river city. Episode Highlights: CityCat Ferries: Discover the unique CityCat ferry service that operates along the Brisbane River, connecting 22 stations and carrying about 5 million passengers annually. Ryan shares how this service has become a beloved part of the city's tourism and commuter landscape.Innovative Metro Project: Learn about the groundbreaking Brisbane Metro project, featuring double articulated electric buses designed to alleviate congestion and enhance the capacity of the city's busway system. Ryan discusses the integration of these high-tech vehicles and their role in transforming Brisbane's public transport.Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Ryan explains how Brisbane's extensive bus network, supported by dedicated busways, serves as the backbone of the city's transit system. He highlights the city's efforts to improve bus-to-rail connections and the significant reforms underway ahead of the 2032 Olympics.Historical and Future Growth: From its origins as a port city to its current status as a bustling metropolis, Brisbane's transit system has continually evolved. Ryan provides insights into the city's plans for future growth, including the Cross River Rail project and the ambitious goals set for the upcoming Olympics. And don’t forget to catch Ryan, the city of Brisbane, and all the projects he talked about in the latest episode of Transit Unplugged TV on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M04d9d-xpzk Have your say in the Transit Unplugged listener survey! It only takes a few minutes and we greatly appreciate your help and feedback. https://transitunplugged.com/survey/ 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Murphy and Brisbane's Transport 00:38 Exploring Brisbane's Ferry System 05:14 Brisbane's Bus Network and BRT System 07:38 Personal Message from Paul... 08:17 Brisbane Metro: The Future of Public Transport 12:12 Rail Developments and the 2032 Olympics 15:06 Ryan Murphy's Background and Vision 16:21 Australia's Public Transport Priorities 17:59 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the...

    19 min
  2. Electrifying Chile’s Transport: A Conversation with Transport Minister Juan Carlos Muñoz

    FEB 14 · BONUS

    Electrifying Chile’s Transport: A Conversation with Transport Minister Juan Carlos Muñoz

    This is a special episode of Transit Unplugged from our sister podcast, Mobility Redefined. Learn more about this great new show on their website: https://mobilityredefined.com/. Below are the original show notes for the episode: In this episode of Mobility Redefined, host Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz speaks with Juan Carlos Muñoz, Chile’s Minister of Transport and Telecommunications, about the nation’s journey to sustainable mobility. They discuss Chile’s ambitious 2050 carbon neutrality goal, the electrification of Santiago’s world-leading bus fleet, and efforts to expand these innovations nationwide. Minister Muñoz shares insights on integrating sustainable urban planning with initiatives like “15-minute cities” and highlights the transformative impact of electric buses on accessibility, user experience, and emissions reduction. The conversation also explores strategies for tackling fare evasion, the importance of governance in transport systems, and the role of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in creating efficient, flexible networks. Chile’s global leadership in transport innovation offers valuable lessons for cities worldwide, from decarbonisation to inclusive urban design. Episode Highlights: • Chile’s Carbon Neutrality Goal: Minister Muñoz discusses Chile’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and the transport sector’s pivotal role. • Electrification Success Story: Santiago boasts the largest electric bus fleet outside China, with plans for nationwide expansion. • Buses as a Catalyst for Change: Electric buses improve service quality, reduce operational costs, and elevate user experience with features like air conditioning, USB ports, and Wi-Fi. • Governance and Regulation: Insights into how effective policies ensure reliable and affordable transport, addressing funding challenges and fostering innovation. • Tackling Fare Evasion: Multifaceted strategies, from turnstiles to digital payment options, are helping reduce fare evasion rates in Santiago. • Urban Sustainability Vision: Beyond electrification, Minister Muñoz emphasises the importance of shorter trips, integrated systems, and 15-minute cities for a sustainable future. • The Role of BRT Systems: Reflections on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as a flexible and cost-effective solution complementing metro networks. Key Takeaways: • Transforming public transport not only improves urban mobility but also contributes to better health, safety, and equity. • Strong governance, stakeholder collaboration, and citizen engagement are essential for sustainable mobility initiatives. • Chile offers valuable lessons for global cities striving to enhance their public transport systems. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mobility Redefined 00:25 Meet Minister Juan Carlos Muñoz 01:23 Chile’s Commitment to Carbon Neutrality 06:55 Challenges and Innovations in Public Transport 13:46 The Role of Governance and Funding 22:19 The Future of BRT Systems 27:29 Tackling Fare Evasion in Santiago Connect with Us: Website: https://mobilityredefined.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mobility-redefined/ Mobility Redefined is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz Producer: Mike Cartmel Executive Producer: Darren Turpin Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina Olagundoye Digital Media: Belén Iturrioz Campo Marketing content and Mobility Redefined newsletter: Mike Cartmel If you have a question or comment, email us at mike.cartmel@modaxo.com Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily...

    39 min
  3. Australian Women in Public Transport

    FEB 12

    Australian Women in Public Transport

    In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort and co-host Kelly Chapman highlight the inspiring stories of four remarkable women leaders in Australian public transport. This is the third of five episodes coming from Paul’s recent 10-day tour of Australia. Don’t forget to also check out Transit Unplugged TV on YouTube for the TV episodes as well. First, we hear from Lauren Streifer, Executive Director of the Public Transport Association of Australia and New Zealand (PTAANZ). Lauren's infectious energy and passion for public transport shine through as she discusses her ambitious goals for the industry, including her efforts to promote sustainability. Next, Jamie-Lee Owen, Chair of PTAANZ's Emerging Mobility Leaders, shares her dedication to championing young professionals in the industry, emphasizing the importance of diversity and mentorship in shaping the future of public transport. Katie Cooper, CEO of Metro Tasmania, brings a wealth of experience from her background in aviation to her current role, where she is leading innovative zero-emission bus trials. Katie's commitment to integrating her aviation expertise into public transport operations is truly inspiring. Finally, Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations at Yarra Trams, discusses her new role and her lifelong passion for trams. Michelle, who was recently awarded the Women in STEM award for mentoring, continues to advocate for female representation in the industry, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels. Tune in to hear these powerful stories and learn about the incredible work being done to promote women in public transport in Australia. Coming up next week we have the final episode from Australian with a special tie-in to the current episode of Transit Unplugged TV from Brisbane. Brisbane City Councillor Ryan Murphy tells Paul all about Brisbane’s ferry system, light rail, and how his role as Chair of the Transportation Committee helps promote and support transit throughout the city. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode 01:03 Highlighting Women Leaders in Australian Transport 06:15 Lauren Streifer CEO, PTAANZ 07:20 Jamie-Lee Owen, Chair, PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leaders 10:31 Katie Cooper CEO, Metro Tasmania 14:35 Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations, Yarra Trams 36:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes 38:19 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the Transit...

    40 min
  4. Transportation Shakeup: New Rules that Could Impact TNCs

    FEB 5

    Transportation Shakeup: New Rules that Could Impact TNCs

    In 2016, Brad Miller, CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), had an idea. What if subsidized rides with Transportation Networking Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft could help people in his community get where they needed to go. What if you could get a subsidized Uber ride at the end of your overnight shift when regular transit isn’t running and be able to get home safely? This revolution in public transit and was seen as a model for transit innovation and quickly spread across the country. The next logical question was then: could we do the same for paratransit and offer better service to those riders and even at a lower cost? The answer was yes. And now across the U.S., paratransit riders can book a ride at the last minute—just like non-disabled people can—to get where they need to go. But all that could come crashing to a halt if proposed changes to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) rules about using TNCs in public transit come into effect. This episode features Brad and other experts talking about how TNCs have helped the disabled community and what the impact on people’s lives will be if transit agencies have to stop using Uber and Lyft for paratransit and other on-demand rides. Featured Guests: • Brad Miller: CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) in Florida. Brad shares his pioneering work in integrating TNCs into paratransit services, highlighting the significant benefits and cost savings achieved. He also discusses the looming threat posed by new Federal regulations that could disrupt these services. • Dr. Judy Shanley: National Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Youth at the National Office of Easterseals. Judy brings her extensive experience in advocating for individuals with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of innovative paratransit solutions. She voices concerns about how the proposed regulations could limit transportation options for people with disabilities. • Alex Elegudin: CEO of Wheeling Forward and former Accessibility Chief at the New York City MTA. Alex provides a legal and advocacy perspective, detailing his efforts to improve accessibility in transportation. He discusses his recent Newsweek article that highlights the challenges and potential setbacks of the proposed regulatory changes. • Jen Shepherd: Head of Uber's Global Transit Business. Jen explains Uber's role in supporting transit agencies and the potential consequences of the new regulations on Uber's ability to provide paratransit services. She underscores the safety measures Uber has in place and the broader implications for mobility if these services are curtailed. Link to the proposed rule changes on the U.S. Federal Register: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FTA-2024-0020 Coming up next week, we have the fourth of five episodes Paul recorded while visiting Australia. This week we feature just a few of the amazing women leading public transit in Australia and joining Paul, special co-host Kelly Chapman. 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:25 Meet the Panelists 03:11 Brad Miller's Innovative Approach 06:08 Challenges and Threats to Paratransit Services 07:07 Judy Shanley on Easterseals' Role 09:29 Alex Elegudin's Perspective 20:12 Jen Shepherd on Uber's Involvement 30:52 Conclusion and Call to Action 32:12 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a...

    33 min
  5. JAN 29

    Transforming Australia’s Railways with Steve Butcher

    In this week’s episode, host Paul Comfort sits down with Steve Butcher, Executive General Manager of Rail and Transport for John Holland. Paul and Steve caught up at the AusRail conference in Brisbane while Paul was on his 10-day tour of Australia. Steve shares his extensive career journey, starting at British Rail at age 16 all the way up to his current job at John Holland and dives into managing Yarra Trams, the Gold Coast Railway, and the Sydney Metro. "Transforming lives through railways is what drives me every day." - Steve Butcher Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged we have a special panel on Transportation Networking Companies (TNCs) and public transit with Dr. Judy L. Shanley, Ph.D. National Director, Transportation, Mobility, & Youth Transition at Easterseals; Alex Elegudin, CEO of Wheeling Forward; Jen Shepherd General Manager of Uber Transit; and Brad Miller CEO of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. 00:00 Introduction to Steve Butcher 00:26 Steve Butcher's Career Journey 00:53 John Holland Group's Major Projects 01:56 Gold Coast Light Railway and Yarra Trams 04:38 Sydney Metro and Tunnel Boring 07:26 Yarra Trams Joint Venture 11:57 Post-Pandemic Rail Trends 14:43 Australia's Investment in Public Transport 17:30 Steve Butcher's Personal Background 20:03 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter 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.

    21 min
  6. JAN 22

    Ned Freeman and UZURV Helping Communities One Ride at a Time

    Ned Freeman joins host Paul Comfort to talk about UZURV and how it's changing how paratransit is delivered in the U.S. UZURV is an adaptive Transportation Network Company (TNC) that gives transit agencies more options for delivering paratransit in their communities. Ned and Paul talk about how UZURV uses its technology to offer on-demand, ADA compliant, and cost-effective paratransit solutions. UZURV’s model combines the flexibility of solutions like Uber, with all the regulatory rigor of an internal solution. You can learn more about UZURV on their website https://uzurv.com/ Coming up next week, we have the third of five episodes Paul recorded while visiting Australia. This week we feature just a few of the amazing women leading public transit in Australia and joining Paul, special co-host Kelly Chapman. 00:00 Why Paratransit Matters 00:19 Evolution of Paratransit Services 01:38 Interview with Ned Freeman, CEO of UZURV 01:49 Challenges and Innovations in Paratransit 04:29 UZURV's Role and Impact 20:42 Future of Paratransit 23:47 Ned Freeman's Background and UZURV's Team 28:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 28:34 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter 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
  7. JAN 15

    How the FTA Supports Transit Across the U.S. with Acting FTA Administrator Veronica Vanterpool

    In a Transit Unplugged exclusive, Paul talks with Veronica Vanterpool, Acting Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) about the inner workings of the FTA, how the Regional Administrators help set priorities and connect agencies with funding, the transformative developments in public transportation over the past four years, and Veronica’s vision for transit in 2025. In the U.S., the FTA is responsible for large-scale oversight, rule-making, and, most importantly, funding for transit agencies across the country. The historic $15.5 billion in funding for transit has helped jumpstart and complete projects across the U.S., but as the Trump Administration enters the White House, what will happen with future funding tranches, especially for low-no emissions programs? Find out this week on Transit Unplugged. Next week on the show we have Ned Freeman, CEO of UZURV, talking about how his company is changing lives, one ride at a time. 00:00 Introduction to the show and Veronica Vanterpool 01:03 Introduction and Welcome 01:14 Challenges and Achievements in Public Transportation 02:08 Role of Public Transportation in Crisis 04:09 Federal Transit Administration's Mission and Structure 06:00 Funding and Support for Transit Projects 07:42 Congestion Pricing and Capital Investments 11:03 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Public Transit 13:36 Low and No Emission Grants 15:40 Support for Tribal and Rural Transit 19:08 Structure and Role of the FTA 25:15 Veronica Vanterpool's Background and Career 29:04 Conclusion and Future Outlook 31:18 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter 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.

    33 min
  8. JAN 8

    In conversation with transit legend Howard Collins

    This week we are proud and excited to share an interview with a true public transit legend: Howard Collins, OBE. Howard's remarkable 47 year career has taken him from London's Tube and Sydney's trains to leading transit for the state of New South Wales in Australia. Howard sat down with Paul to talk and reflect on not just where transit has been, but where it's going with workforce development, funding, and making transit just better for everyone. This is a don't-miss interview you can draw insight and inspiration from no matter where in the world you are. Speaking of don't-miss interviews, next week we have Acting FTA Administrator Veronica Vanterpool talking with Paul about the changes in transit over the past four years and what the future could hold in the years ahead. Make sure you subscribe or follow Transit Unplugged wherever you listen so you don't miss an episode. 00:05 Welcome to Transit Unplugged and introducing our guest, Howard Collins OBE 00:45 Howard Collins' Career Journey 01:54 Current Role and Responsibilities 03:53 Innovations and Workforce Diversity 06:53 Public Transport Challenges and Solutions 10:30 Future of Transport in Australia 14:55 Career Advice for Mid-Level Managers 17:50 Advice for Senior Leaders and CEOs 19:57 Local Manufacturing and Future Projects 22:36 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie Gates Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris Hussey If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter 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.

    23 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

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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