In this week’s episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Jay Fox, Executive Director of the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) — one of the fastest-growing, highest-performing transit agencies in the United States and APTA’s 2025 Transit System of the Year.Jay brings a remarkable background across FAA, FTA, Amtrak, and SEPTA — and now leads the agency serving one of the most dynamic, youthful, and transit-hungry regions in America.Together, Paul and Jay dive into:Preparing for the 2034 Winter OlympicsJay shares why UTA told the IOC: “We’re ready now.”UTA’s rail, BRT corridors, FrontRunner upgrades, and multimodal network already form a complete backbone for Olympic mobility — with more enhancements on the way. FrontRunner 2X: The Generational Rail ProjectUTA is pushing to move from 25% to 50% double-tracking, enabling:-15-minute peak service -A new infill station -A new maintenance facility -Pathways to Sunday service…all while ridership continues to soar. A Multimodal System Built for GrowthUTA operates:-131 miles of rail (commuter, light rail, streetcar) -Three BRT lines (including OGX, electric and wildly successful) -Extensive bus, microtransit, vanpool, and paratransit services -A booming Ski Bus network that keeps the canyons moving Transit ROI: The Utah ModelJay breaks down the hard numbers on economic impact:-$9.6B in economic output generated -$377M in tax revenue returned -79,000 jobs supported -Ever $1 invested netted a $5.11 returned to the regional economyAll from an operating budget of roughly $480M. Why UTA’s Riders Are Getting YoungerJay explains how university partnerships, free-fare programs, and campus connectivity are transforming ridership patterns — and why student riders today become lifelong riders tomorrow.Global CollaborationUTA is working with LA Metro, LA28, and Milan/Cortina teams to prepare for back-to-back Olympic cycles (2026, 2028, 2034), exchanging insights on operations, vehicle staging, and major-event transport logistics.This is one of the most wide-ranging, energizing episodes we’ve recorded — and a perfect companion to our upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episo

This Week on Transit UnpluggedPaul Comfort sits down with Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler U.S., one of the most innovative and fastest-growing train manufacturers in North America. From a modest foothold in the early 2000s to a nearly 600,000 sq. ft. factory in Utah, Stadler is reshaping how America thinks about rolling stock — and redefining what’s possible in U.S.-based manufacturing.In this conversation, Martin pulls back the curtain on:How Stadler grew from an 18-person Swiss workshop to a 17,500-person global rail powerhouse Why agencies love their FLIRT multiple-unit trains — and how distributed propulsion changes the game Hydrogen, battery-electric, and ultra-efficient diesel-electric: the real story behind next-gen rail propulsion How Stadler achieved FRA compliance while keeping trains lighter, quieter, and more efficient The company’s youth apprenticeship program, modeled after Switzerland’s world-renowned system What it means for Stadler U.S. to become a standalone division The milestone ahead: delivering trains for the 2034 Salt Lake Olympic Games This episode is a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most talked-about rail manufacturers in the United States — and a preview of what Paul and the crew will capture during our upcoming visit to the Utah factory for Transit Unplugged TV.Episode CreditsHost & Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinConsultants: Dan Meisner & Jonas Woost, BumperBrand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.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

On this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Nancy Purser, Acting Director of the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). After 15 years with the agency, Nancy now leads one of Ontario’s most historic and ambitious transit systems — one that’s preparing for transformative growth.Nancy shares how HSR is executing HSR Next: Moving Hamilton Forward, a seven-year network redesign that will expand service by 50%, add new routes and on-demand zones, and better connect residents — especially those in equity-deserving and suburban communities — to jobs, education, and opportunity.She also discusses HSR’s shift to a 100% CNG fleet by the end of 2026, emerging exploration into renewable natural gas, the city’s newest indoor fueling and storage facility, and what it means to become the greenest transit fleet in Ontario.Plus, Nancy opens up about her path into transit, the power of customer-focused service, and how dragon boat racing keeps her energized outside of work.In This Conversation, You’ll Learn:Why Hamilton chose to preserve the historic HSR name — and why riders love itHow HSR Next will reshape the network, expand frequency, and support suburban growthWhat it takes to deliver 50% more transit service over seven yearsThe environmental and operational impact of going fully CNGHow municipal investment and federal capital programs influence long-term planningRidership trends — and how immigration policy and education markets affect demandThe role of equity, access, and job connectivity in modern network redesignsHow community partnerships and strategic planning positioned HSR for its “golden era”Episode CreditsHost & Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinConsultants: Dan Meisner & Jonas Woost, BumperBrand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo — passionate about moving the world’s people.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 pro

On this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Maureen Cosyn Heath, Director of Transit for the City of Mississauga and the leader of MiWay, the third-largest municipal transit agency in Ontario.Mississauga has grown rapidly to more than 775,000 residents, and MiWay is evolving right alongside the city—operating 500 buses, supporting 1,700+ employees, and preparing for major system updates including a hydrogen bus pilot, a battery-electric fleet project, and the upcoming Hazel McCallion LRT (Light Rail Transit) line.Maureen shares insights on:Why ridership should be measured in value, not just taps and fares How MiWay is shifting toward zero-emission technology What it takes to communicate big budgets to elected officials The importance of frontline operators and technicians Her career path from customer service to leading one of Canada’s largest systems “More people on my buses, more space on the road for you.” — Maureen Cosyn HeathRecorded live in Ontario at the Vontas Canada User Summit, this conversation highlights a transit agency preparing for its next chapter—and a leader focused on fundamentals, connection, and community impact. Credits + DisclaimerHost & Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinConsultants: Dan Misener & Jonas Woost (Bumper)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.

On this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Ginny Smith, Executive Director of the Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority. Ginny shares how rural transit systems provide essential access to jobs, healthcare, education, and independence for the people they serve. From vanpools that connect workers to regional employers, to a new university transit partnership, to technology investments that improve safety and rider experience, Cape Girardeau is a powerful example of how small systems innovate with limited resources.In This Conversation, You’ll Learn:Why transit in rural communities is truly a lifeline, especially for seniors and workers without vehiclesHow Cape Girardeau runs vanpool routes to large employers across county lines to connect people with stable jobsThe impact of taking over Southeast Missouri State University’s transit service and launching live bus tracking for students and residentsHow partnerships like FlixBus/Greyhound restore regional travel access to St. Louis and beyondHow the system is using AI-based safety and vehicle monitoring tools to support operators and prevent breakdownsThe financial reality of rural transit funding — and the creative strategies needed when state dollars are cutCREDITSHost & Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer: Chris O’KeeffeEditor: Patrick EmileAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinConsultants: Dan Misener & Jonas Woost (Bumper)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.

In this special live episode of Transit Unplugged, recorded at TCRP Day in Washington, DC, Paul Comfort sits down with a powerhouse panel of transit leaders:Sarah Meyer — EVP, Chief Customer Officer at Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Jamaal Schoby — Senior Program Manager at Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Art Guzzetti — Vice President, Policy at American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Matt Daus — Partner & Chair, Transportation Practice Group (Windels Marx) They dive into the critical role of research in shaping the future of public transit—how the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) delivers actionable insights, not just academic studies. From fare policy to safety, from AI to workforce development, hear how these leaders are using data and research to make real-world decisions that impact millions of riders.Whether you're in operations, policy, planning, or innovation, this episode will show you why research isn’t just important—it’s urgent.https://nap.nationalacademies.org/trb/165/transit-cooperative-research-program-research-report

This week on Transit Unplugged, we’re bringing you an international perspective. Paul Comfort sits down with Laurence Broseta, International CEO of Keolis Group, for a front-row look at how one of the world’s largest operators is reimagining public transit.With operations in 13 countries, Keolis is doing more than running trains and buses—they’re building tools like visualization rooms to improve ops in real-time, championing revolutionary technology, and leading major projects like Grand Paris Express and Canada’s high-speed ALTO corridor.Laurence shares what it’s like adapting the European subcontractor model to North America. She also gives us a glimpse into Keolis’ recruitment strategy, their evolving leadership culture, and how they’re pushing beyond sustainability goals to future-proof ridership.If you want to know what transit looks like when it’s run like a global system—this is the episode.00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview01:27 Interview with Laurence Broseta Begins02:43 Keolis Group and Global Operations06:44 Visualization Rooms and Operational Excellence10:34 Keolis in North America: Challenges and Successes13:52 Leadership and Recruitment at Keolis16:51 High-Speed Rail in Canada: The ALTO Project18:24 Global High-Speed Rail Developments23:56 North American Transit Operations26:02 Future of Public Transportation28:14 Conclusion and FarewellCreator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer — Chris O'KeeffeEditor — Patrick EmileAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova 📩 Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com⚠️ DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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,

Passing the Torch at GRITS:In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort speaks live from the Kentucky Transit Association Trade Show with Dan Lanham and Michael Hughes of GRITS transit service. As Dan prepares to retire after nearly two decades and Michael steps up from Assistant Director to take over, they discuss the smooth leadership transition process. Dan reflects on his tenure and plans for retirement while Michael outlines his vision and priorities for the future, emphasizing the importance of hiring the right people and maintaining employee retention. The conversation also highlights the multi-month preparation and training that ensured a seamless transition and continued success for the agency.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort  Executive Producer — Julie Gates  Producer — Chris O'KeeffeAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin  Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye  Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova  📩 Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com⚠️ DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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.

In this exclusive edition of Transit Unplugged Insider, host Paul Comfort sits down with executive producer Julie Gates to unpack the biggest developments across the public transportation world—things you won’t hear anywhere else.Inside this episode:What the federal shutdown really means for transit funding—and which programs are frozen Why some agencies are pulling back from electric busesHow safety is taking a front seat and what the current Administration is using to measure itThe rise of AI, cybersecurity, and automation inside transit opsWhat we’re hearing about operator shortages, microtransit expansion, and system redesignsAnd what’s next for Transit Unplugged TV, Parking Live, and the brand-new Aviation Report Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer — Chris O'KeeffeAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova 📩 Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com⚠️ DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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.

Recorded Live at the APTA TRANSform Conference in BostonIn this special live edition of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort moderates an inspiring CEO Roundtable with five industry leaders shaping the future of mobility. Recorded on-site at APTA TRANSform 2025 in Boston, the conversation dives into the real-world challenges and opportunities facing transit systems today—and the leadership vision driving change.Joining Paul are: Ben Limmer (Connecticut DOT)Kenneth McDonald (Long Beach Transit and APTA CEO of the Year)Jessica Mefford-Miller (Valley Metro)Ben Stupka (RTA of Southeast Michigan), and Amanda Wanke (DART – Des Moines).Together, they explore key themes:The biggest transformations their agencies have experienced in the past two years• How leaders pivot under pressure and lead through uncertainty• Innovation in action—new projects and technologies transforming service• A day in the life of a modern transit CEO• Their vision for the next decade of mobility This uplifting roundtable is packed with practical insights, real-world leadership lessons, and inspiration for everyone working to move people—and communities—forward.

This week on Transit Unplugged:We head to Singapore, where public transit covers every inch of the island—and carries an astonishing 7.5 million riders daily.Host Paul Comfort sits down with Winston Toh, Managing Director of Tower Transit Singapore, one of four operators under the Land Transport Authority (LTA). With 800 buses across 60 routes, Tower Transit is at the center of a system designed with precision—and powered by centralized planning.Winston shares:Why bus ridership (3.8M daily) surpasses rail (3.4M) in Singapore How LTA ensures full national coverage and low fares (as little as $0.69 for seniors) Why “every inch of the land is covered” with integrated bus and rail systems The role of AI-enabled safety tools, including fatigue detection and driver incentive programs How Tower Transit fosters a people-first culture, with 80% staff engagement and Singapore Best Employer status The company’s goal to become “the Singapore Airlines of the bus industry” Whether you’re an operator, planner, or policymaker, this episode offers a blueprint for equitable, efficient, and tech-forward mobility.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer — Chris O'KeeffeEdited and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe + Patrick EmileAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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, cla

San Antonio is growing—and fast. In this Super September episode, host Paul Comfort sits down with Jon Gary Herrera, the newly appointed President and CEO of VIA Metropolitan Transit, to talk about how one of America’s fastest-growing cities is reimagining transit.From expanding regional collaboration to centering equity in system planning, Jon Gary brings a thoughtful and bold vision to VIA’s next chapter. He shares what he’s learned from nearly two decades in public service—including his time at LA Metro, Capitol Hill, and the private sector—and why he believes public transit is essential for prosperity, climate, and quality of life. Topics include:What brought Jon Gary to San Antonio—and why the time was rightThe opportunity (and pressure) of leading a transit system in a fast-growing cityWhy transit investments must reflect the lived experience of the people who use themThe power of community accountability—and how it shapes service deliveryVIA’s strategy for becoming a mobility ecosystem that works for all “We're in a moment where we need to be courageous about the future.” — Jon Gary HerreraWhether you're a transit professional, city planner, or civic leader, this episode offers key insights into building resilient, future-focused mobility systems that meet the needs of diverse, growing communities. Credits Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer — Chris O'KeeffeEdited and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe + Patrick EmileAssociate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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

LIVE from the American Public Transportation Association's TRANSform conference, host Paul Comfort moderates a live panel on one of the most mission-critical—but often overlooked—parts of the transit ecosystem: paratransit.Presented in partnership with UZURV – The Adaptive Transportation Network Company (TNC), this candid and high-energy conversation features leaders from across the country who are redefining what’s possible when innovation meets accessibility.Guests:Mark Aesch, CEO, TransPro Consulting Eileen Collins Turvey, Director of Paratransit, TriMet (Portland, OR)Kevin Hernandez, Chief Operating Officer, GRTC (Richmond, VA) Ned Freeman, CEO, UZURV Together, they discuss:Why paratransit isn’t just an “unfunded mandate”—it’s a cornerstone of transit’s value to the communityHow performance-based models and TNC partnerships are helping agencies cut costs and boost rider satisfaction New data showing paratransit users are the most satisfied transit customers in America What success looks like when we prioritize dignity, flexibility, and equity   "Do you know who the most happy transit customers in America are? Paratransit customers. They're happier than fixed route bus or BRT or Rail.” – Mark Aesch “The ADA is the floor, not the ceiling. It's minimum compliance. And if that's what you're seeking, I'm not gonna tell you how to run your program.” – Eileen Collins Turvey “ It's time to be innovative. We can't continue doing the same things we've been doing for 70 years." – Kevin Hernandez Whether you're running a transit system, shaping policy, or simply believe in building cities that work for everyone—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Credits Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

In this Super September episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort heads to Chicago to sit down with Nora Leerhsen, Acting President of the Chicago Transit Authority—America’s second-largest public transit system.With more than 11,000 employees, a million daily riders, and an expanding footprint, the CTA plays a massive role in the life of the Windy City—and Nora is at the helm during a pivotal time. A lawyer and former educator who rose through the ranks from compliance officer to chief of staff and now acting president, Nora shares her deep belief in transit's power to uplift cities and people alike.They discuss:How CTA is hitting post-pandemic ridership highs during special events like Lollapalooza The launch of the Frequent Network, boosting service on 20 core bus routes Nora’s unique path to leadership—and why a legal background helps navigate complexityCTA's all-hands approach to safety, from targeted police missions to new rider engagement programs The long-awaited Red Line Extension, bringing rail access to underserved South Side communities How partnerships with Metra, Pace, and RTA are shaping a more unified regional systemAnd yes—there’s even a nod to Ferris Bueller and the iconic rumble of the L. “Transit is unmatched in the impact it can have on a city and on its trajectory,” says Nora. Tune in for a candid, energizing conversation about the past, present, and future of Chicago’s transit backbone.Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort Executive Producer — Julie Gates Producer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’Keefe Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova  Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests and do not

We’re kicking off Super September with a heavy-hitter: Demetrius Crichlow, President of New York City Transit.In this powerful episode, Crichlow sits down with Paul Comfort to reflect on his 20+ year rise through the MTA—from climbing signal poles at Long Island Rail Road to overseeing the nation’s largest transit system.Crichlow doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges. He opens up about leading through a crisis of public trust, tackling rising crime, modernizing aging infrastructure, and navigating tough conversations about race, fairness, and opportunity inside large institutions. Highlights include:How fare evasion was reduced by 27%Why putting people first means choosing talent over tenureWhat CBTC (communications-based train control) means for NYCThe hidden complexity of drainage, substations, and keeping a 24/7 system runningWhy congestion pricing is more than just a revenue streamA bold leadership approach built on respect, experience, and strategic changeWhether you’re leading a small system or managing a megacity’s transit infrastructure, this episode offers insights that will stay with you. Podcast CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul ComfortExecutive Producer — Julie GatesProducer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’KeefeAssociate Producer — Cyndi RaskinPodcast Intern — Desmond GatesSpecial thanks to:Brand Design — Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media — Tatyana MechkarovaGot a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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

We’re getting the band back together.In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul catches up with longtime contributors Mike Bismeyer (a.k.a. the King of Kindness) and Elea Carey, marketing strategist and founder of Transit Happy. These two familiar voices helped shape the podcast during the pandemic—and now they’re shaping the industry.Mike shares how kindness has become a key leadership trait, and how mentorship continues to change his career and others'. Elea gets into what works—and doesn’t—with marketing in 2025, and how social media and AI are shifting the landscape for transit agencies.Together, the group dives deep on:Using kindness as a competitive advantageBuilding sustainable, people-first transit cultureThe real risks and rewards of AI in marketingWhy relationships—not tech—are the future of our industryThis one’s personal, practical, and packed with ideas you’ll want to steal for your own agency.Reach out to them here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleacarey/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kindnessiscoolbythebiz/ Podcast CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul ComfortExecutive Producer — Julie GatesProducer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’KeefeAssociate Producer — Cyndi RaskinPodcast Intern — Desmond GatesSpecial thanks to:Brand Design — Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media — Tatyana MechkarovaGot a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com DisclaimerThe 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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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 o

This Week on Transit UnpluggedOn the Road in New Orleans: SWTA Summer Conference SpotlightIn this special conference edition of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort is on location at the SWTA Summer University Conference in New Orleans, where he dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing small and mid-sized transit systems across the Southwest. Main Interview:Perri D’Armond – Director, Fort Bend Transit (Fort Bend County, TX)Perri shares how one of America’s fastest-growing and most diverse counties is reimagining transit service. She discusses:Fort Bend's explosive growth from 350,000 to nearly 900,000 residents since 2000The success of their new downtown Houston commuter service, even post-COVIDA real-world use of transit for seniors and ADA riders — including the memorable line: "I don’t care if I’m taking you to play bingo…"How local context shapes flexible service models, from park-and-ride to rural demand responseHer career path from ag education to economic development to transit leadership Special Guests:Rich Sampson – Executive Director, Southwest Transit Association (SWTA)Rich gives us a front-row seat to the key challenges and trends for transit in the SWTA region, including:Calls to raise federal match ratios for smaller systemsChanging ridership patterns in post-pandemic suburban networksWhat makes SWTA’s events stand out — and what’s next for the organizationDinero’ Washington – CEO, SporTran & Chair, LPTA (Louisiana Public Transportation Association)Dinero’ outlines Louisiana’s big transit wins:A new $23M admin center and multimodal hub in ShreveportStatewide investment in ferry programs, CNG, and BRTThe importance of unified support from DOTD and agencies alikeThis episode captures the energy of transit leaders on the ground, collaborating across state lines and service types to deliver real solutions — with community impact front and center.

On the heels of his February appointment, Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek sits down with Paul Comfort to break down a banner year for the MTA’s northern commuter powerhouse. From 98 percent on-time performance to new “Super-Express” trains that shave up to 50 minutes a day off the New Haven run, Justin walks through the big wins, bigger capital program, and the three metrics he believes define rail’s future in North America: reliability, frequency, and trip time.In This EpisodeThe 98% standard — how Metro-North elevated on-time performance across 230k daily tripsSuper-Express strategy — six AM/PM trains, revamped signaling, and a 90-minute New Haven–GCT targetGrand Central Terminal as a “temple to transit”Their nearly $8 billion capital plan (2025-29) — dual-mode Siemens Chargers, battery-electric locos, signal renewals, ADA station upgrades, and the Grand Central arteryPenn Station Access for Bronx riders and reverse-commute opportunities into Connecticut Resources & LinksMetro-North Railroad — https://new.mta.info/agency/metro-north-railroadMTA Capital Program 2025-2029 overview https://future.mta.info/capitalplan/Transit Unplugged episode archive — https://transitunplugged.comSubscribe & Stay ConnectedLike what you hear? Subscribe to Transit Unplugged on your favorite podcast app, or sign up for the newsletter at TransitUnplugged.com for weekly field notes from across the industry.Podcast CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.Creator, Host & Producer — Paul ComfortExecutive Producer — Julie GatesProducer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’KeefeAssociate Producer — Cyndi RaskinPodcast Intern — Desmond Gates Special thanks to:Brand Design — Tina OlagundoyeS

MV Transportation just hit a milestone few transit firms reach—its 50th anniversary.To mark the occasion, host Paul Comfort interviews Harry Wilson, the firm’s Executive Chairman, about:A 50‑Year Origin Story —How Alex and Feysan Lodde's single van in San Francisco grew into the largest American‑owned transit contractor in North America.“The New MV” Culture —Why Wilson and COO Kevin Klika rebuilt training from scratch (six‑week GM bootcamp), added performance incentives, and created hundreds of employee‑shareholders.Contracting in 2025 —Cost pressure, fiscal cliffs, ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicles) transitions, AI pilots: why Wilson believes outsourcing will expand as agencies chase flexibility and innovation.AI on the Front Line —Predictive tools that have cut operator turnover nearly in half and the 30+ workstreams MV is piloting right now.Boardroom to Depot —Former FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez joins MV’s board; founder Feysan Lodde inducted into the APTA Hall of Fame.Looking Ahead —Why Wilson thinks the next 5–10 years will bring more change than the last 50—and how MV plans to help agencies navigate it.Resources & LinksMV Transportation 50‑Year Timeline https://www.mvtransit.com/about-us/mv-storyTransit Unplugged interview with Nuria Fernandez https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-podcast/nuria-fernandez-santa-clara-valley-transportation-authority/Subscribe to the newsletter at TransitUnplugged.comPodcast CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by ModaxoCreator, Host, + Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer + Newsletter Editor: Chris O’KeeffeAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinPodcast Intern: Desmond GatesSpecial thanks to:

Last week, Mark Aesch and Alvin McBorrough unpacked a striking statistic: only 4 % of Americans ride transit, yet 84 % of people say they value it. This week we keep that conversation going with Rikesh Shah, former Chief Innovation Officer at Transport for London. Together with host Paul Comfort, Rikesh explores how customer‑focused metrics, open data, and smarter procurement can turn that 84 % of “transit supporters” into satisfied users—and why leadership has to set the stage for risk‑taking and co‑creation. From Volume to Value —Why ridership shouldn’t be the sole north‑star KPI, and how London’s open‑data program shifted travel behavior for the better.Customer‑First Metrics —Using design‑thinking and qualitative research to uncover the real pain points of diverse riders (and non‑riders).Making Cities a Test Bed —How transparent “problem statements” and outcome‑based procurement invite startups, scale‑ups, and tier‑ones to co‑create solutions.Smart Procurement 101 —Engage procurement early, signal future tenders, and use one streamlined process that covers pilot, scale‑up, and rollout.Leadership & Risk —What CEOs can do today to foster entrepreneurial cultures, align internal teams, and de‑risk innovation without overprescribing specs.Lessons from London —Congestion charging, Ultra‑Low Emission Zones, and open innovation under successive mayors—and what U.S. cities can adopt. Podcast CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by ModaxoCreator, Host, + Producer: Paul ComfortExecutive Producer: Julie GatesProducer + Newsletter Editor: Chris O’KeeffeAssociate Producer: Cyndi RaskinPodcast Intern: Desmond GatesSpecial thanks to: Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova DisclaimerThe views and opinio