Transit Unplugged

Transit Unplugged Network
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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. 19 HR. AGO

    Post-Election Impact Unplugged with SWTA

    This episode of Transit Unplugged, brought to you in conjunction with the South West Transit Association (SWTA), tackles a big question after the U.S. election: what does it mean for transit? Rich Sampson, Executive Director of SWTA, and Becca Green, their Legislative Committee Chair and Chief Communications Officer at Rock Region METRO, provide a comprehensive legislative update for listeners. Key topics discussed include: transit's success at the ballot boxthe reauthorization of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (IIJA)expected future federal transit fundingregulatory relief efforts Rich and Becca give practical strategies for effective advocacy with elected leaders, especially in light of new administration and Congressional dynamics. They emphasize building strong relationships with elected officials and underscore transit as a non-partisan issue benefiting all constituents. Coming up next week we'll have Eileen Collins Turvey talking about her innovative programs in Portland, OR that could save millions of dollars and help people lead healthier lives. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 Legislative Update Overview 03:07 Transit Ballot Initiatives Success 06:05 Federal Transit Funding and Appropriations 13:25 Regulatory Relief and Workforce Development 18:00 Vehicle Supply and Cost Issues 28:49 Advocacy and Relationship Building 36:08 Q&A Session 49:02 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.

    50 min

  2. NOV 13

    Enhancing the Transit Experience with Stephen Tu: Innovations at LA Metro

    For people to want to ride transit, they need to feel safe. And feeling safe is more than just physical safety, it's a perception. A perception based on cleanliness, vandalism, anti-social behaviors, loitering, open drug use, fare jumping; things that create a feeling of disorder on top of actual physical safety. This was a huge problem in LA overall, so they decided to do something about it. On this episode Paul talks with Stephen Tu, the Deputy Executive Officer for Station Experience at LA Metro on how they did it first at one station and are now expanding the changes system-wide. Some of the programs they talk about are: Tap-to-exit program on fare gates Open elevator doors Smart restrooms, Ambient noise in parking garages and classical music in stations Stephen talks about the results and the tremendous difference these efforts have made. The pilot tests were so successful that Stephen is in the process of rolling these tactics across the entire LA Metro subway system. But these tactics are only one side of the issue, Stephen also talks about LA Metro is helping people with reduced fares, community support workers, and other tangible things to address the root causes of these anti-social behaviors. All within the context of planning for the 2028 Olympic Games. Coming up next week we have a special episode brought to by the South West Transit Association (SWTA). We'll bring you the recording from their post-election update and discussion with members broadcast and recorded on November 12. 00:00 Creating a better experience at LA Metro Stations 00:05 Introduction and background 01:59 Welcome Stephen Tu 02:33 Overview of the Station Experience Program 03:48 Addressing Societal Challenges and Safety 05:33 Success Stories and Program Expansion 06:35 Innovative Fare Collection: Tap to Exit 10:39 Open Elevator Doors Initiative 13:21 Smart Restrooms for Riders 17:05 Music and Ambient Noise for Better Experience 21:04 Conclusion and Future Outlook 23:05 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...

    24 min
  3. Driving Transit Innovations - 5 Global Transit Leaders Share Their Visions of the Future

    NOV 6

    Driving Transit Innovations - 5 Global Transit Leaders Share Their Visions of the Future

    Join Paul Comfort we kick off Season 8 of Transit Unplugged! This special episode features a live CEO roundtable from the APTA TRANSform and EXPO packed with five of transit's biggest leaders. The panel features: Andy Lord from Transport for LondonDottie Watkins from CapMetro in AustinDwight Ferrell from SMART in DetroitShawn Donaghy from North County Transit DistrictAdam Leishman CEO of Ascendal Group in Hong Kong They discuss their unique transit projects, the impact of the pandemic, the future of AI in transportation, the importance of risk-taking, mentorship in leadership, and the role of transit in the economic development of cities worldwide. Don't miss this compelling--and passionate--discussion on the intersection of technology, society, and the future of public transportation. Next week on the show we have Stephen Tu, Deputy Executive Officer of Station Experience at LA Metro, talking about improving the transit journey for everyone. Improving safety, cleanliness, the perception of safety, and discouraging inappropriate activities starting at a few stations and now expanding across the network. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Anniversary 08:43 Andy Lord on London's Transit System 12:41 Dottie Watkins on Austin's Transit Expansion 15:25 Dwight Ferrell on Detroit's SMARTer Mobility 18:01 Shawn Donaghy on Workforce Development in San Diego 20:36 Public Transport Success in Hong Kong 21:29 Rethinking Urban Planning 21:56 King's Cross Transformation 23:15 Economic Impact of Transport Infrastructure 25:32 Transition from Aviation to Public Transport 27:32 Leveraging AI and Technology in Public Transport 29:51 Leadership Lessons in Public Transport 34:45 Final Thoughts and Industry Appreciation 37:21 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.

    39 min

  4. OCT 30

    Achieving accessibility - Ron Brooks and Kristen Joyner on how to get us there

    Accessibility is an essential and important topic in transit--and one that Transit Unplugged has deep connections to. From Paul's first job in transit to his work at WMATA and Baltimore MTA, he has championed ensuring transit connects everyone to all of life's opportunities. Tris' father was a pioneer in helping veterans in wheelchairs live independently on their own. So when we say, we're committed to accessibility in all its forms--we mean it. But when it comes to accessibility, sometimes people don't know where to start. And this is where our guests this week come in. Ron Brooks and Kristen Joyner talk with Paul about their new book, All Aboard: Conducting Accessible Community Involvement for Public Transit which gives real, practical strategies to improve accessibility in transit, at conferences, in meetings, and the wider world. Ron and Kristen share how sometimes simple things make a tremendous difference in making something accessible, and often with spending little or no money. And how when as we make the world more accessible, we're making the world a better place for all of us. Coming up next week we kick off Season 8 of Transit Unplugged with a special CEO Roundtable recorded live at APTA TRANSform. Make sure you don't miss this episode with guests: Andy Lord Commissioner of Transport for LondonDottie Watkins CEO of CapMetro, AustinDwight A. Ferrell CEO of Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation, DetroitShawn M. Donaghy CEO North County Transit District, San DiegoAdam Leishman CEO of Ascendal Group, Hong Kong As they talk about the big plans in their systems and some truly inspiring visions of the future. 00:00 The Inspiring Journey of Ron Brooks 00:38 Introducing 'All Aboard': A Guide to Accessible Transit 02:08 The Motivation Behind the Book 04:44 Practical Guidance for Transit Agencies 06:39 Broadening the Audience for Accessibility 10:22 Subscribe to the newsletter 11:07 Community outreach 13:28 Making Meetings Inclusive for All 17:24 The Importance of Comprehensive Engagement 20:15 Contributors and Final Thoughts 23:20 Coming new 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...

    24 min

  5. OCT 25 · BONUS

    Transit Unplugged Deep Cuts - Eulois Cleckley

    From an interview with Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works CEO Eulois Cleckley and Paul Comfort originally aired in February, 2023. Eulois talks with Paul about his vision and approach to leadership with his REPPS model and how it's helped his team perform better and exceed what they thought they could accomplish. Link to original interview: https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-podcast/stacey-matlen-and-eulois-cleckley/ One of his top executives, Schneider St. Preux, was recently on the podcast and cited Eulois' leadership as a critical factor in his career. Listen to that episode here: https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-podcast/schneider-st-preux/ 00:00 Introduction to Transit Unplugged Deep Cuts 00:44 Meet Eulois Cleckley: Leadership Insights 01:02 The Importance of Strong Leadership 02:29 Principles of Effective Leadership: The REPPS Acronym 02:56 Focusing on Results 04:32 Setting High Expectations 05:39 Setting High Expectations for Success 06:33 Focusing on People: The Key to Leadership 08:02 Empowering Staff for Maximum Potential 08:46 The Importance of Data-Driven Decisions 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.

    11 min

  6. OCT 23

    Driven to Succeed: Schneider St. Preux on climbing the transit career ladder

    This week Paul is talking with someone we could call a Transit Unplugged superfan—Schneider St. Preux—who says he's listened to every podcast episode and credits Transit Unplugged with helping him in his upward career trajectory.  We're so pleased to be part of Schneiders' career journey. As he says in this interview—listening and engaging in our podcast community, along with hard work, determination, and willingness to invest in himself, has taken Schneider from bus operator to General Superintendent of Bus Operations at Miami-Dade. Schneider is also one of this year's Mass Transit Magazine's 40 Under 40 winners—a fitting acknowledgment of the accomplishments in his career thus far. He also talks about the critical role of practical experience and the value of continuous education—Schneider says education gets you to the door and your hard work gets you through it. Highlighting both the challenges and triumphs, Schneider offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring transit professionals, emphasizing self-belief, goal-setting, and the importance of investing in people. Paul and Schneider also talk about the importance of training new leaders, especially those who have been "doers" in what true leadership really means. Coming up next week, we focus on a topic close to the hearts of everyone at Transit Unplugged—accessibility. Paul talks with Ron Brooks and Kristen Joyner about their new book which serves as and both a guidebook and inspiration for how to make transit, and the wider world, more accessible for everyone. 00:00 Introduction: A Unique Fan Story 00:42 Crazy Work Stories: The L from Hell 04:24 Meet Schneider St. Preux: A Rising Star in Transit 05:19 Career Journey: From Bus Operator to Superintendent 09:13 Catch Transit Unplugged TV on YouTube 10:09 Spending a year at Broward County Transit 12:44 The Importance of Education and Self-Investment 14:33 Leadership Insights: From Frontline to Management 18:00 Future of Public Transportation: Challenges and Innovations 18:00 Advice for Aspiring Transit Leaders 19:27 Conclusion: Bright Future Ahead 19:40 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged

    21 min
  7. From the Eye of the Storm: A Transit Unplugged Special Episode

    OCT 16

    From the Eye of the Storm: A Transit Unplugged Special Episode

    The back-to-back hurricanes that swept through the Southeastern U.S. brought unimaginable destruction to the region. Many places are far from recovered, with tens of thousands of people still without power in some areas. But behind the scenes, transportation networks need to keep running. People need to be evacuated to safety. Supplies have to get through. Emergency workers need to get to where they are needed. This week we pull back the curtain with a special episode focused on how our transportation networks prepare for and recover from disasters like Hurricanes Helene and Milton. On this special episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort connected with six transportation leaders in Florida about the preparations, their Emergency Operations Centers, and what happens now to recover. We hear from: Brad Miller, CEO of Pinellas Suncoast Transit AuthorityCoree Cuff Lonergan, CEO of Broward County Transit (BCT)Dave Dech, Executive Director of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority/Tri-RailIvan Maldonado, Executive Director of Palm TranTiffany Homler Hawkins, CEO of Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (LYNX)Greg Slater, CEO/Executive Director of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority This is a unique episode that only Transit Unplugged can bring you! Make sure you tune in and share with your transit colleagues. Next week on the show, we have Mass Transit Magazine 40 Under 40 winner Schneider St. Preux talking about his 12 year transit career trajectory from bus operator to General Superintendent of Bus Operations for the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works. Schneider tells Paul what it took to build his career and his advice for other up and coming leaders in the industry. 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 00:00 Introduction to the Eye of the Storm 00:45 Brad Miller: Riding Out the Storm 01:17 Coree Cuff Lonergan: Tornadoes and Transit 01:33 Ivan Moldanado: Coordination and Preparation 01:54 Tiffany Homler Hawkins: Orlando's Response 02:22 Dave Dech: TriRail's Role in the Crisis 02:44 Greg Slater: Road Networks and Disaster Management 03:43Brad Miller: Firsthand Hurricane Experience 11:03 Brad Miller: Evacuation and Recovery Efforts 21:19 Dave Dech: TriRail's Hurricane Preparedness 32:11 Coree Cuff Lonergan on Broward County's Hurricane Response 36:03 Ivan Maldonado Discusses PalmTran's...

    1h 3m

  8. OCT 9

    Rolling Through Rural Minnesota: Arrowhead Transit Connects Communities Together

    This week on Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort interviews Brandon Nurmi, Director of Arrowhead Transit in Minnesota. Paul and Brandon discuss the unique challenges of operating a public transportation system across a vast, sparsely populated rural area. Brandon shares his journey in the transit sector, the geographical and logistical hurdles his team faces, the role of volunteer-driven programs, and the technological advancements aiding rural transit systems. As Arrowhead Transit celebrates its 50th anniversary, Brandon highlights how essential public transit is in rural areas for accessing jobs, healthcare, and reducing social isolation. Tune in to learn about the vital role of rural transit in community development and the collaborations that bolster these efforts. 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 00:00 Introduction to Rural Public Transportation 00:57 Challenges of Rural Transit Systems 01:23 Interview with Brandon Nurmi: Director of Arrowhead Transit 02:39 Celebrating 50 Years of Arrowhead Transit 03:25 Geographical and Operational Challenges 06:11 The Role of Technology and Volunteer Programs 09:17 Funding and Community Development 12:59 Social Connectivity and Partnerships 14:37 Future Expansion Plans 16:00 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged 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.

    17 min
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out of 5
30 Ratings

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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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