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. 1D AGO

    Optimal Mix: Light Rail vs. Bus Rapid Transit with Professor Niels van Oort

    Join Paul Comfort on this episode of Transit Unplugged for an insightful conversation with Professor Niels van Oort, Associate Professor of Public Transport and Shared Mobility at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and co-director of the Smart Public Transport Lab. Paul and Niels explore critical considerations in transit planning, including the effectiveness of light rail versus bus rapid transit (BRT), integration with cycling and micro-mobility, and global best practices for creating high-quality transit systems.    Niels shares details about his innovative transportation planning game designed to help students and professionals balance various mobility modes and societal goals. He also discusses the benefits, challenges, and appropriate contexts for implementing light rail and BRT systems, emphasizing the importance of seamless integration with active transport modes like cycling.  Course—Planning Public Transport Services:   https://ppts-course.org/Serious game ‘Finding the optimal mix’: https://deoptimalemix.nl/en/ Light Rail Transit Systems; 61 Lessons in Sustainable Urban Development: https://shop.elsevier.com/books/light-rail-transit-systems/der-bijl/978-0-12-814784-9 Better buses: BRT and other bus modes:  https://www.ovmagazine.nl/boeken/betere-bus Weblog public transport research output: https://nielsvanoort.weblog.tudelft.nl/ Smart Public Transport Lab: www.SmartPTLab.TUDelft.nlYou can read more about Dr. Oort’s work here: https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ceg/about-faculty/departments/transport-planning/staff/personal-pages/oort-n-van    Additionally, communication experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott from TALLsmall Productions (https://tallsmallproductions.org/) provide practical guidance on mentorship, highlighting strategies for effective mentor-mentee relationships, open communication, and meaningful feedback.  Highlights:  Insights into the comparative advantages of Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Bus Rapid...

    39 min

  2. MAR 19

    Mobility Redefined: Exploring Global Transit Trends with Dr. Kaan Yildizgöz

    In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort welcomes Dr. Kaan Yildizgöz, host of Mobility Redefined, the new sister podcast of Transit Unplugged. Dr. Yildizögz, a leading global expert in public transportation and former senior director at UITP, shares his personal journey into transportation, driven by childhood memories in his father's bus workshop, and his academic expertise in ride-hailing and mobility.   Paul and Kaan dive into global mobility trends, exploring key issues such as decarbonization of bus fleets, resilience in transit governance and funding, digitalization, and workforce challenges across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Discover how transportation leaders worldwide tackle these universal challenges with innovative solutions and best practices.   Also in this episode, communication experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott offer practical strategies for navigating change management, emphasizing the power of active listening and consistent messaging to guide teams effectively through transitions.   Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com  Host: Paul Comfort  Producer: Paul Comfort  Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Media Support: Cyndi Raskin Executive Producer: Julie Gates    Special Thanks To   Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova  Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin    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.

    36 min

  3. MAR 12

    Exploring Tucson's Transit Future with Mikel Oglesby

    Take a behind-the-scenes look at Tucson, Arizona’s SunTran transit system with General Manager Mikel Oglesby. Host Paul Comfort and Mikel explore the city’s transit modes, budget, and future projects, including the innovative Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) plans. Discover Mikel's unique journey in public transit, from his childhood riding buses with his father to becoming a leader in the industry. The episode also features insightful discussions on alternative fuel technologies, fare-free systems, and the nuances of managing a large transit agency. Plus, get tips on career resilience and effective communication from experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott. Don’t miss this enriching episode filmed on location during the Southwest Transit Association Conference 2025. Listen now!  00:00:00 - Introduction  00:02:00 - Exploring Tucson's Transit System  00:04:00 - Fare-Free Transit and Future Plans  00:08:00 - Innovative Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project  00:14:00 - Career Resilience and Communication Tips  00:19:00 - Introduction to Mikel Oglesby  00:20:00 - Mikel's Early Career in Transit  00:23:00 - Achievements at Sunline Transit Agency  00:25:00 - Transition to TriRail and Detroit  00:29:00 - Current Role and Future Plans in Tucson  00:31:00 - Impact of FTA Changes and Industry Predictions  00:33:00 - Southwest Transit Association Conference    Credits:  Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com   Host: Paul Comfort   Producer: Paul Comfort   Writer: Cyndi Raskin  Executive Producer: Julie Gates      Special thanks to:   Brand design: Tina Olagundoye   Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova   Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin   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.

    37 min

  4. MAR 5

    Inside Amtrak: Growth, Modernization, and High-Speed Rail with CEO Stephen Gardner

    In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort interviews Stephen Gardner, CEO of Amtrak, at their Washington, DC headquarters. They discuss Amtrak's record ridership of 32.8 million passengers in the past year, recent capital investments totaling $4.5 billion, and the introduction of new Acela trains. Gardner shares insights into Amtrak's strategy to double ridership by 2040, high-speed rail initiatives, and the unique structure of Amtrak as a federally-owned yet commercially-operated entity. Key projects such as the Frederick Douglass Tunnel in Baltimore and the upcoming Gulf Coast service are also highlighted, along with Amtrak's approach to modernizing and expanding its network. The episode concludes with a look into the future of rail travel and the importance of strategic partnerships.  00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged  00:05 Introduction to today's episode from host Paul Comfort  01:24 Interview with Stephen Gardner  01:34 Stephen Gardner's Background and Role at Amtrak  03:03 Understanding Amtrak's Unique Structure  07:42 Amtrak's Business Model and Operations  13:23 Challenges and Opportunities in Rail Expansion  23:02 High-Speed Rail and Future Projects  27:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Next week on Transit Unplugged, Paul chats with Mikel Oglesby, General Manager of SunTran, SunRail, and SunLink, in Tucson, AZ.  Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com  Host: Paul Comfort  Producer: Paul Comfort  Writer: Cyndi Raskin Executive Producer: Julie Gates    Special thanks to:  Brand design: Tina Olagundoye  Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova  Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin  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.

    35 min
  5. A Lifetime in the Business of Moving People with Tom Drozt

    FEB 26

    A Lifetime in the Business of Moving People with Tom Drozt

    After decades at transit agencies across the U.S., Tom Drozt decided at 56 to retire, spend time with his family, work on his yard, and find some new passions to put his energy into. Turns out transit is his passion, so before long he was out of retirement and at MARTA in Atlanta running bus operations. Now the CEO of Ben Franklin Transit in Southern Washington State, Tom is leading the agency with his people-first leadership style and helping people choose transit over cars. Coming up next week we have Stephen Gardner, CEO of Amtrak, talking with Paul about the historic investments Amtrak is making to bring rail travel to the fore in the U.S. And don’t forget to have your say in our Transit Unplugged listener survey. Just visit https://transitunplugged.com/survey/ to complete the short survey. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:05 Interview with Tom Drozt, CEO of Ben Franklin Transit 00:23 Tom's Background and Early Career 03:13 Career Challenges and Transitions 07:50 Joining Ben Franklin Transit 17:20 Current Initiatives and Projects 21:43 Leadership Philosophy and Future Vision 24:52 Conclusion and thank you 25:07 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged 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.

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

    FEB 19

    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 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...

    19 min
  7. 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
  8. 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 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...

    40 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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