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. 25 MIN. AGO

    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...

    24 min

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    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

  3. 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
  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. OCT 2

    Reimagining Paratransit: TNC Collaboration

    In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort chats with paratransit thought leaders: Andre Colaiace from LA Access ServicesChris Pangilinan from New York MTAEileen Collins Turvey from Portland's TriMet They dive into how Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are shaking up paratransit, making everything smoother for riders and more affordable for agencies. We get a rundown of their systems, highlighting how they're tackling daily challenges and boosting efficiency. Sponsored by Uber Transit, this episode also looks at how public-private partnerships are changing the game for public transportation. It’s a deep dive into the practical steps being taken to improve and modernize paratransit services. Uber recently published Transit Horizons 2.0: The Mobility Evolution. This industry perspective paper explores how public-private partnerships have and can enhance public transportation. It’s available for download at uber.com/transithorizons. Coming up next week we talk about the essential role transit plays in rural communities. Our guest is Brandon Nurmi, Director of Arrowhead Transit in Eastern Minnesota. We often forget that in many rural communities there are few alternatives to transit. There aren't many TNCs and often people have to travel long distances for things like doctors and school. Thanks to transit, and a legion of volunteer drivers, people in rural areas can get where they need to go. 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 Uber Paratransit with intro 00:53 Evolution of Paratransit Services 01:11 Meet the Leaders of Paratransit Systems 03:34 Discussion with Chris Pangilinan - New York City 04:01 Discussion with Andre Colaiace - Los Angeles 05:16 Discussion with Eileen Collins Turvey - Portland 06:43 Challenges and Innovations in Paratransit 07:41 Utilizing TNCs and Taxis for Paratransit 13:46 Technology Integration in Paratransit 18:31 Future of Paratransit Services 22:39 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...

    24 min

  7. SEP 25

    Getting Boston's Transit Down to a T: Conversation with MBTA's COO Ryan Coholan

    On this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Ryan Coholan, the Chief Operating Officer of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA or The T) in Boston. Ever heard of a COO who drives his own train to work? Ryan is one of a few (only?) COOs who has kept up his Locomotive Engineer's License and regularly drives the train from his home in the suburbs into Boston. Ryan likes to stay connected with the work he's responsible for, not to mention when the COO calls and says there's an issue on a stretch of track, it gets fixed. With nearly 30 years of transit experience, Ryan talks about running one of America's largest transit systems and shares stories of MBTA's recent wins, like ending speed restrictions on rail lines, introducing contactless fares, and even getting chatbot support. Paul and Ryan also dive into some serious business – like getting agreements in place with all their labor unions for the first time in 15 years. Paul and Ryan wrap up their conversation with some electrifying news (literally) about The T's move towards battery electric trains. Ryan's got big plans to make it all happen and leveraging as much existing infrastructure as possible. This is a ride you won't want to miss! 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 and Guest Introduction 01:24 Ryan's Journey to Work 02:22 Overview of MBTA and Its Unique Structure 06:51 Role and Responsibilities of the COO 09:25 Financial Health and Strategic Investments 12:22 Speed Restrictions and Infrastructure Improvements 20:05 Innovations in Customer Experience 23:38 Labor Agreements and Workforce Relations 25:23 Commuter Rail Developments and Electrification 30:45 Conclusion and Vision for the Future 31:57 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...

    33 min

  8. SEP 18

    Expanding Your Reach: Leveraging TNCs in Transit

    This week we bring you a special episode sponsored by Uber Transit. Across the U.S., Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are filling important gaps in transit networks. From giving rides to late night shift workers to helping elderly and disabled riders access the world around them, TNCs make sure "transit deserts" aren't "mobility deserts." Recently, Paul sat down with Bonnie Epstein of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), Carlos Cruz-Casas of Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works, and Robert Betts from Marin Transit to talk about the different ways TNCs, have not only transformed their transit networks, but their communities as well. PSTA was the first agency in the U.S. to work with Uber Transit to help late night shift workers get to and from work when regular transit wasn't running. Since its start in 2016, PSTA has helped thousands of people get to work, break into the workforce, and grow their careers. Now this model is being used in Miami-Dade to re-connect riders with the larger transit system after their system reorganization, and in Marin County on-demand transit is letting their aging population age in place and still stay active in their community. This episode is sponsored by Uber Transit, who recently published Transit Horizons 2.0: The Mobility Evolution. This industry perspective paper explores how public-private partnerships have and can enhance public transportation. It’s available for download at uber.com/transithorizons. Coming up next week we learn about all the improvements being made in Boston by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority in an interview with MBTA COO Ryan Coholan. 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 Expanding Your Reach: Leveraging TNCs in Transit 01:07 Episode Overview and Sponsorship 01:57 Guest Introductions 04:36 Marin Transit: Catch A Ride Program 05:38 PSTA: TD Late Shift Program 08:24 Miami-Dade: Better Bus Network Solutions 11:32 Discussion on Transit Innovations 17:21 Marin County 17:21 Personal Stories and Impact 24:32 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...

    26 min
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4.4
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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