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. 2 DAYS AGO

    Public Transport in Australia: Turning Points, New Trends, and Big Transformations

    We're kicking off the first of five podcast episodes from Paul's 10-day trip to Australia. First up, we have John Storms of Transit Systems Victoria and Mark Peters of Transit Systems Australia giving us an overview of transit in Australia and their plans for the future. Much like North America, Australia has cities surrounded by sprawling, low-density suburbs that are challenging for any public transit system to serve. In their separate interviews with Paul, John and Mark talk frankly about these challenges and what needs to be done to address them. Coming up next week we have the first of two holiday specials on Transit Unplugged. First, we're turning the tables on Paul with our own award-winning radio journalist, Julie Gates, interviewing him for a change. Paul talks about the highlights from 2024 and what's ahead for 2025. Because Christmas falls on a Wednesday this year, we're releasing the episode a day early on Tuesday (Christmas Eve). We'll do the same the following week, with an episode coming out on New Year's Eve instead of New Year's Day. 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Australian Trip 00:20 Exploring Melbourne and Hobart 00:38 Brisbane and Upcoming Podcasts 02:50 Interview with John Storms 02:58 Focus on People and Accessibility Initiatives 06:58 Hydrogen and Electric Bus Innovations 08:11 John Storms' Background and Melbourne's Growth 11:05 Interview with Mark Peters: Transit Trends and Zero Emissions 11:16 Interview with Mark Peters 19:01 Technology and Innovation in Transit 20:39 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.

    22 min
  2. DEC 11

    Are we creating enough future transit leaders?

    Sometimes the difference between winning and losing is your bench. The people you can call on to step up and win the game, finish the project, or get it done when your usual players can't. That's a strong bench. People you know who can step into the shoes of current leaders and be the next ones. By 2030 all baby boomers will be 65 or older and preparing to retire. So who is going to replace them? According to this week's guest, Matt Booterbaugh, CEO of RATP Dev USA, we don't have a strong bench to step in when current leaders step down, and Matt has some ideas how to fix it. Paul and Matt also talk about the general state of transit, funding challenges, progress towards zero emission buses, and Matt's thoughts on coming from outside transit. Next week on the show, we have the first in a series of interviews from Paul's 10-day tour of Australia. First up, we have John Storms, Managing Director at Transit Systems in the State of Victoria, and Mark Peters, Executive General Manager, E Mobility and Fleet Innovation at Transit Systems for all of Australia. They'll be talking about transit in Australia overall, their strides in expanding their workforce, accessibility, and the transition to zero emissions buses. Don't forget, our year end wrap up shows are coming up! First, on Christmas Eve, we have Paul and Transit Unplugged News Minute's Julie Gates, with a look back and a look ahead in transit. And then, on New Year's Eve, we have Rudy Salo, transit futurist and attorney talking with Paul about the year ahead and beyond for transit and mobility. 00:05 Introduction from host, Paul Comfort 01:21 Interview with Matt Booterbaugh, CEO of RATP Dev USA 01:33 Current Trends in Public Transportation 02:58 Global Experience and Local Impact 03:23 Company Background and Growth 05:07 Matt's Personal Journey 07:18 Public vs. Private Sector Jobs 09:02 Industry Challenges and Future Outlook 12:44 Leadership in Transit 16:05 New Year's Resolutions 16:58 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

    19 min
  3. DEC 4

    Crafting Connectivity: Ben Limmer’s Vision for Public Transport

    In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Ben Limmer, Chief of Public Transportation for the Connecticut Department of Transportation. They talk about what it takes to run a massive statewide transit agency with a billion-dollar budget that is a critical part of the Northeast Corridor from Boston to Washington D.C. Paul and Ben talk about Ben's career journey--like many of us, he fell into transit accidentally--and how several important mentors shaped his career. Ben talks about Connecticut's major transportation projects, including investments in infrastructure, electrification programs, and bus network revamps. Ben and Paul wrap the conversation with a discussion about what's going to be important to transit in the next few years. Tune in for this insightful chat about the present and future of transit in Connecticut. Coming up next week on the show we have Matt Booterbaugh, CEO of transit contractor RAPT Dev USA. Talking about the role of contracting in transit and his secret to fill the bench with future transit leaders. 00:00 Introduction from host Paul Comfort 00:17 Meet Ben Limmer: Chief of Public Transportation 02:13 Big Projects and Responsibilities at CTDOT 06:38 Career Journey and Mentorship 14:56 Referendums and Public Support 16:35 Future of Public Transportation 18:52 Conclusion and Future Plans 19:15 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
  4. NOV 27

    Eileen Collins Turvey TriMet’s Innovation Trailblazer

    Paratransit is the most expensive mode transit agencies in North America provide, so finding ways to save money and better serve the community is paramount. One way to do that is offer a bare-bones, only-what's-mandated service; which saves money, but underserves a vulnerable population. The other way is to get smart, to get innovative. And that's exactly what Eileen Collins Turvey of Portland's TriMet did, and it paid off because she won the 2024 APTA Innovation Award for her pilot program giving paratransit customers Instacart Plus memberships. It costs about $150 round trip for someone to use paratransit to go to the store. And they have to book ahead of time and can only bring two bags back from the store. But what if people could just have their groceries delivered instead? In her pilot, Eileen gave $10/mo Instacart Plus memberships to paratransit customers to let them buy groceries and have them delivered whenever they need from over 55 stores. How's it working? TriMet is saving $1500 per month per person and if the program is expanded to just half of their paratransit customers they could save $9 million per year. In her conversation with host Paul Comfort, Eileen also talks about her personal connection to paratransit and her vision for what paratransit could and should be. Tune in for this awesome interview with a true trailblazer. And if you'd like to learn more about it, Eileen provided us with a link to all her information and materials about the program. (text link: https://nextcloud.trimet.org/index.php/s/nyTqwgzefiGbNTB) Coming up next week we head to Connecticut and hear from Ben Limmer, Chief of Public Transportation at Connecticut Department of Transportation and learn about their revitalization programs. 00:00 Introduction 00:59 Our guest: Eileen Collins Turvey 02:35 Winning the APTA Innovation Award 04:39 The Instacart Program: Concept and Implementation 05:59 Challenges and Solutions 10:47 Program Impact and Future Prospects 13:18 The Broader Vision for Paratransit 18:26 Final Thoughts 19:44 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...

    21 min
  5. NOV 20

    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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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

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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