Shows
The RebelRebel PodcastPrompt Like a Pro with Tris Hussey"Curiosity is what keeps me moving forward." What happens when a former scientist becomes Canada's first pro blogger, publishes four books, and now builds custom AI marketing tools for fun? In this episode, I talk with Tris Hussey about curiosity, content, and building a life around technology that empowers people. This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world. In This Episode In this episode, Michael Dargie talks with Tris Hussey, a lifelong technologist, educator, author, and self-described curiosity-driven geek. Based in Chilliwack, BC, Tris has...
2026-02-1034 min
Unapologetic LeadershipLeaders Get this Wrong: Empathy, Ethical AI and Quiet Quitting with Tris HusseyIn this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with Tris Hussey to explore why empathy is the leadership skill AI can’t replace. As organizations rush to adopt AI, many leaders are seeing rising burnout, quiet quitting, and loss of trust. This conversation breaks down what’s really happening and what to do instead.Together, they unpack ethical AI use, human-centered decision-making, and how leaders can balance innovation with accountability, clarity, and care. If you’re navigating AI adoption, managing disengaged teams, or trying to lead with integrity in a fast-changing workplace, this episode offers practi...
2026-02-0543 min
DJ Syxx FiggazSocavivor5101 - Erupt - Skinny Fabulous X Fireman Hooper
02 - The Peoples Cry - Fireman Hooper
03 - Red Button - Esron Y. Spielberg
04 - Whale Fu See - Og Park X Rum Lawd
05 - Renk It Up - Skinny Fabulous
06 - Shellings - Geo X Suhrawh
07 - Saltfish For Sale - Suhraw
08 - Come In My Yard - Kelly J
09 - Push Back - Angie Maya
10 - Balance - Hypa 4000
11 - Boom Boom On The Road - Mr Benji X Skinny Fabulous
12 - Bumpa - Bawl Dawg
13 - Pong Pong - Problem Child
14 - Skin Out - Problem Child X Hypa 4000
15...
2025-11-102h 02
Dj Syxx Figgaz Soca MixtapesSocavivor Pt. 51TRACKLIST
01 - Erupt - Skinny Fabulous X Fireman Hooper
02 - The Peoples Cry - Fireman Hooper
03 - Red Button - Esron Y. Spielberg
04 - Whale Fu See - Og Park X Rum Lawd
05 - Renk It Up - Skinny Fabulous
06 - Shellings - Geo X Suhrawh
07 - Saltfish For Sale - Suhraw
08 - Come In My Yard - Kelly J
09 - Push Back - Angie Maya
10 - Balance - Hypa 4000
11 - Boom Boom On The Road - Mr Benji X Skinny Fabulous
12 - Bumpa - Bawl Dawg
13...
2025-10-311h 24
DJ DylanDJ Dylan, Lost In Soca - Lost In Soca Miami Carnival 2025Track List:
Freetown Collective - Kaya (DM On The Edit)
Freetown Collective - Kaya
Anika Berry - Party Bag
Nadia Batson - Hammock
GBM Nutron x Nailah Blackman - Tay Lay Lay
Kris Kennedy - Sweetest Wine
Preedy - Late Night
Nessa Preppy - Front Way
Sekon Sta - Good Good Daughter
Jordan English - Island Girl
Jagwa De Champ x Jus Jay - Attack
DJ CHEEM/Jagwa De Champ - Shots
Klassik Frescobar - Dansa (Dylan Dub)
Fari - As A Friend (Raw)
Jordan English Feat Jagwa De Champ - Back It Up (Clean) ++
Jagwa De Champ & Pepperz...
2025-10-071h 12
Dj Close Connections PodcastSoca Passport (Island Hoppin' 2025)Taking a musical tour through the caribbean highlighting the biggest SOCA & Bouyon hits for 2025 from Trinidad, Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia, Antigua, Barbados, Guadaloupe, Dominica, USVI & More..
1. CC Jab Jab Mega Mix 2025
2. V'ghn & Terra D Governor - Jab Decisions
3. 1T1 Theomaa - Bouwey
4. Jordan English - Darkers
5. Problem Child - Fraid Horn
6. Keith Currency - Back Chat
7. L Pank - Love Yuh Bad
8. Khallion - Put That On That
9. Reo Tehilah - La Vie Doux
10. Dash - Doh Come For Dah
11. Muddy - Payroll
12. L.E.D. - Viral Again
13. Tris - Experience
14. Dread Lion - Grease It
15. Lil Kerry...
2025-10-061h 37
Jaspa MuzikMIAMI - ROADBouwéy 1T1 ft. Theomaa
Bumpa Move Punz ft. Skillibeng
Toko Doak (Cout Tchui Riddim) Deejay ASAP
Clap Clap (Cout Tchui Riddim) Kosmoss
Stick In Dat (Cout Tchui Riddim) Bossla
Cack It Up (Tiki Twaka Riddim) Keenan La x DJ Addo x Mikado
Nuh Nuh (Tiki Twaka Riddim) Mighty
Bess Work (Tiki Twaka Ridim) Klassik Frescobar
Fraid Horn [The Power Pack Project] Problem Child
Come Back [The Power Pack Project] Terra D Governor
Love Yuh Bad [The Power Pack Project] L Pank
Back Chat [The Power Pack Project] Keith Currency
It's You [The Power Pack Project] Kennie Montana
In The V...
2025-10-0452 min
Dei Musicale | The Musical GodsSWEET & DUTTY SOCA EXPLICIT JUNE 20251. Bouwéy (feat. Theomaa) - 1T1 , Feat Théomaa
2. Bumpa Move - Punz ft Skillibeng
3. What She Like - Trixz Migos Hussey
4. FYM - Problem Child & Mr.Ridge
5. My X - Leadpipe & Saddis
6. I Do Not Know - Jordan English x Reo
7. Rumours - Lyrikal
8. Come Back - Terra D Governor
9. Back Chat - Keith Currency
10. It's You - Kennie Montana
11. Love Yuh Bad - L Pank
12. Fraid Horn - Problem Child
13. Spin Bumpa - Marzville
14. Cyah Satisfy - Lavaman, Xpert Productions
15. Payroll - Muddy, Xpert Productions
16. Xperience - Tris, Xpert Productions
17. Erupt - Skinny Fabulous & Fireman Hooper
18. Renk It Up...
2025-06-1725 min
Transit UnpluggedDriving Transit Innovations - 5 Global Transit Leaders Share Their Visions of the FutureJoin 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 KongThey 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...
2024-11-0638 min
Transit UnpluggedAchieving accessibility - Ron Brooks and Kristen Joyner on how to get us thereAccessibility 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...
2024-10-3024 minTransit UnpluggedTransit Unplugged Deep Cuts - Eulois CleckleyFrom 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...
2024-10-2511 min
Transit UnpluggedFrom the Eye of the Storm: A Transit Unplugged Special EpisodeThe 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...
2024-10-161h 03Transit UnpluggedRolling Through Rural Minnesota: Arrowhead Transit Connects Communities TogetherThis 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...
2024-10-0916 minTransit UnpluggedReimagining Paratransit: TNC CollaborationIn 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 TriMetThey 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 pr...
2024-10-0224 minTransit UnpluggedGetting Boston's Transit Down to a T: Conversation with MBTA's COO Ryan CoholanOn 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...
2024-09-2532 minTransit UnpluggedExpanding Your Reach: Leveraging TNCs in TransitThis 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...
2024-09-1826 minTransit UnpluggedConnecting London: Philip Gerhardt Discusses TFL's Transit SolutionsIn this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul talks with Philip Gerhardt, the Head of Bus Performance at Transport for London (TfL). Philip talks about what it's like keeping the over 650 bus routes moving smoothly at one of the world's largest public transport networks.And Philip doesn't just have to worry about the iconic double-decker red buses, he needs to make sure all bus routes--including the express routes around London--connect with all the other modes from The Tube and light rail to the Elizabeth Line and ferries. Paul and Philip talk about the details of bus performance and...
2024-09-1127 minTransit UnpluggedResolving the Bus Manufacturing Crisis: Challenges, Changes, and the Path AheadThe bus manufacturing crisis has been looming for years as more and more OEMs dropped out. But the final straw was when Proterra filed for bankruptcy protection and REV Group said it was closing its ENC facility to focus on the Canadian market. In the blink of an eye the U.S. was down to two major bus manufacturers: GILLIG and New Flyer. This put the entire public transit industry into crisis mode. Delivery times for new buses went from 12-18 months to 18-24 months--and longer.How did we get this point?It's not an...
2024-09-0436 minTransit UnpluggedExploring Vienna's Multi-Modal Transit System with CEO Alexandra ReinaglJoin Paul Comfort as he takes you behind the scenes of Vienna's renowned public transit system, Wiener Linien. Discover the secrets behind the network, from seamless mobility chains to their innovative climate ticket. CEO Alexandra Reinagl shares insights on the city's strong commitment to public transport, decarbonizing the bus fleet, and the collaborative efforts in urban planning that make Vienna the world's most livable city. Enjoy a virtual tour of Vienna's transit infrastructure, cultural highlights, and future mobility visions in this captivating episode.Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.comHost...
2024-08-2822 minTransit UnpluggedMiami's First-in-the-Nation All-Electric Transit Operations Center with Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre ChavarriaMiami's First-in-the-Nation All-Electric Transit Operations Center with Eulois Cleckley and Angel Andre ChavarriaAround the world agencies are switching to low or no carbon buses and with that change comes an even bigger challenge: infrastructure. Battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell, even CNG buses, all require new and different refueling/recharging systems, different maintenance set ups, and sometimes even completely different spaces.This week you'll get to hear about a bus garage that is the first-of-its-kind in the U.S, a state-of-the-are facility designed to house, charge, and repair 100, 60 foot battery electric articulated buses. These buses...
2024-08-2123 minTransit UnpluggedFairbanks Transit: Harnessing Extreme Weather for Extreme InnovationIn this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort continues his Alaska adventure with Fairbanks, as part of his California and Alaska series. Paul starts with sharing his 12-hour train journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks through Denali National Park--which was nearly cancelled because of wildfires!In Fairbanks, he chats with Fairbanks transit leaders Michelle Denton, Corey DiRutigliano, and Dey Johnson about the unique challenges of running a transit system in Fairbanks' extreme weather conditions.Together with Paul, explore the history of Fairbanks, the impact of its discontinuous permafrost tundra on infrastructure, and the exciting new...
2024-08-1422 minTransit UnpluggedAnchorage: Transit on the edge of the wildernessImagine running a transit system where moose crossing the road in town is just your average day. Where winters are long, dark and cold, but summer is hot and has 22 hours of daylight.That's transit in Alaska.In this first of two episodes from Alaska, Paul Comfort takes us to Anchorage. This week you'll hear from Jamie Acton, Executive Director of Public Transportation, and Bart Rudolph, Transit Planning & Communications Manager for the Municipality of Anchorage talking about the system and what it's like to be Alaskans.Paul delves into what makes Anchorage's transit...
2024-08-0720 minTransit UnpluggedInside Sacramento's transit system: TOD Initiatives and Safety Innovations with CEO Henry LiGet ready for a packed episode as we welcome Henry Li, CEO of the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), to the show. Henry takes us behind the scenes of SacRT, sharing insights into the major initiatives currently shaping the future of transit in the region like students ride free program and transit oriented development (TOD).We'll dive into how transit-oriented development is transforming Sacramento, the innovative approaches SacRT is taking to ensure rider safety, and the challenges and successes they faced along the way.Henry's impressive career in the transit industry brings a wealth of...
2024-07-3123 minTransit UnpluggedSMART Moves: Dwight Ferrell on Public Transit Innovations in DetroitIn this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort interviews Dwight Ferrell, General Manager of SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) in Southeastern Michigan. Dwight shares lessons from his lengthy career in public transportation, from a bus operator in Dallas to leading multiple transit agencies across the U.S. The discussion covers SMART's innovative service for the NFL draft in Detroit, how to do the same thing for other events, addressing the changing face of ridership, and bus operator staffing challenges.Dwight delves into lessons in leadership, the future of transit technology, and adapting services to...
2024-07-1722 minTransit UnpluggedRon Kilcoyne on the Three Essentials for Growing Transit RidershipJoin Transit Unplugged host Paul Comfort as he dives into the critical issue of boosting post-pandemic transit ridership with Ron Kilcoyne. Ron is a seasoned transit professional with over 40 years in the industry, leading several transit agencies, and now a transit researcher and consultant.Ron and Paul explore some innovative solutions to increase ridership, emphasizing a 'three-legged stool' of service design, marketing, and operations.This conversation combines both practical advice and strategic insights into rebuilding public transportation systems to meet current and future demands. Ron dives into his research into understanding how service design and...
2024-07-1023 minTransit UnpluggedTransit Insights from Hong Kong, Singapore, and London with Adam LeishmanHere's a stat you don't hear every day: over the course of his career (so far), Adam Leishman has helped move over 1.8 billion people. Billion. With a "b." I guess that's what happens when you've worked in three of the top transit cities in the world: London, Singapore, and Hong Kong.In his conversation with host Paul Comfort, Adam talks about Hong Kong's transit model where transit companies operate as true commercial businesses that receive no support or subsidy from the government. Adam's experience working in transit from Australia to Europe to Asia has shown him the...
2024-06-2625 minTransit UnpluggedErick Van Wagenen, CEO WeDriveU, on Innovation and the Future of Transit ContractingIn this episode Paul Comfort interviews Erick Van Wagenen, CEO of WeDriveU, formerly National Express. They discuss the transformation of National Express, the North American Transit Alliance, and the evolving role of contractors in public transportation. Additionally, Erick reflects on his 18-year career with WeDriveU, where he progressed from assistant general manager to CEO, and discusses the rebranding and strategic initiatives under his leadership.Erick shares his insights on industry trends, including electrification, addressing labor shortages, and leveraging innovation to help operators drive more safely. Erick and Paul also discuss the impact of inflation on costs and...
2024-06-1918 minTransit UnpluggedNYC Stalls on Congestion Pricing: A Deep Dive with Matthew DausPlus policing on the subway and upcoming transit conferences. Last week, New York Governor Kathy Hochul abruptly put a stop to New York City's planned congestion charges due to come into effect June 30th. This announcement took nearly everyone by surprise, critics and supporters alike, and this week we have Matthew Daus return as our guest to talk about this sudden change, what it means for the New York MTA's budget, and if congestion pricing will return to the city.We've talked about congestion pricing many times on the show before, from Matthew a year...
2024-06-1225 minTransit UnpluggedHill Testing, Hydrogen, and Electric Ferries: Halifax Transit’s Green Innovations with Dave ReageWhile in Halifax, Canada filming Transit Unplugged TV, Paul sat down with Dave Reage, Executive Director of Halifax Transit and First Vice Chair of the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) to talk about his transit system, testing their new electric buses, and building new ferry terminals for an electric ferry fleet (a first in Canada). Dave shares insights into Halifax's rapid growth, his background, and the challenges and innovations facing the industry in Canada. Dave talks about how critical CUTA is in molding future leaders. Before heading over to Dartmouth on the ferry for some seafood, Dave shows Paul...
2024-06-0525 minTransit UnpluggedPlanning for Savannah's Expanded Transit Future with Faye DiMassimoThis week Paul chats with Faye DiMassimo, CEO and Executive Director of Chatham Area Transit Authority (CAT) in Savannah, and soon to be Chief of Planning and Economic Development for the City of Savannah. Paul and Faye discuss the recent APTA Public Transit CEO Conference, Faye's career path (including recent promotion), and the innovations at CAT, including hybrid ferries, an electric microtransit pilot, and their long-term fiscal plan.They get into how CAT is preparing for the fiscal cliff as COVID federal relief runs out and challenges getting grants based on local matches. Faye reflects on how...
2024-05-2929 min
Transit UnpluggedTackling today's biggest challenges at four transit agenciesAcross North America there are four fundamental issues facing transit agencies:Getting enough busesGetting enough people to fix and drive the busesGetting enough funding to keep running the busesGetting (cyber)secureThe bus manufacturing crisis is forcing many transit agencies to get creative at keeping buses running longer. Workforce shortages mean agencies are getting creative at finding and hiring enough people. With a fiscal cliff looming for many agencies, finding ways to save money and still offer the same level of service means finding some new ways to connect people on something other than a 40 foot...
2024-05-2243 minTransit UnpluggedPlanes, trains, buses, and boats. Andy Lord has it all in LondonTransport for London (TfL) covers every transport means possible from the iconic red double-deck buses to The Tube to trains and even ferries. Which means the person in charge of it all has a lot going on at any given moment. Andy Lord, Commissioner for TfL spent over 25 years in aviation before coming to transit in 2019 to run The Tube with then Commissioner Andy Byford. Sitting down with Paul, Andy about his career and the enormity of the job of managing nearly 30,000 people moving millions of people a day.Andy tells Paul how the mix of contracting...
2024-05-1530 minTransit UnpluggedCelebrating Paul's Newest Book: The New Future of Public TransportationThis week we're celebrating the release of Paul's newest book, The New Future of Public Transportation, which is the sequel to The Future of Public Transportation published early in 2020. To say public transport faced an crisis or inflection point in the past four years is an understatement.In this updated edition, Paul collected essays by 30 transit leaders from around the world covering every major topic facing transit today from workforce to safety, infrastructure to faring. On the show today Paul chats with two of the contributors, Dr. Karen Philbrick, Executive Director of the Mineta Transportation Institute, and...
2024-05-0837 minTransit UnpluggedLaunching Successful Innovations at SEPTA with Emily YatesIn a previous episode we talked about SEPTA's innovative SCOPE (Safety, Cleaning, Ownership, Partnership, and Engagement) program -- https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-podcast/how-septa-is-making-a-difference-in-the-lives-of-vulnerable-people/ -- and how it was helping the city's most vulnerable people. This week we get the big picture from the woman at the head of it all.Emily Yates reports right to CEO Leslie Richards and leads a team that's willing to take a risk on something new and if it doesn't pan out, learn from it and move on. Her recent pilot on using AI-powered cameras to detect weapons didn't turn out like...
2024-05-0125 minTransit UnpluggedSystem Redesign and Transit Revival in Madison with Justin StuehrenbergJustin Stuehrenberg GM of Madison Metro and his team used COVID as the impetus to finally put a long-planned system redesign into motion and completed it in June 2023. Since then they've seen a 15% increase in ridership. Justin and Paul talked about how his new network works, how geography figured into it, and the new bus rapid transit (BRT) lines coming soon that will use battery electric buses charged en route with overhead pantographs.Also in this episode:Being part of city government--the good and badWorking with multiple city councils for approvals and fundingJustin's path from designing...
2024-04-1722 min
Transit UnpluggedPublic Transport Insights and Innovations in the Middle East from UITP MENAIn this special episode we have guest host, and past guest, Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz hosting a live CEO roundtable from the Modaxo booth at the UITP MENA Transport Congress and Exhibition. Kaan is joined by:Renée Amilcar: President of UITP & General Manager of OC Transpo, CanadaAbdulla Al Marzouqi: Director General – Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), Abu DhabiMohammed Obaid Al Mulla: Member of the Board of Directors of Roads and Transport Authority & Chair of UITP MENA Division, DubaiKaan and his guests talked about not only public transport in the Middle East post-COVID, but also the exciting fut...
2024-04-1524 minTransit UnpluggedPublic Transit Trumps Politics in Oklahoma City with Mayor David HoltUsually on Transit Unplugged we bring you the voices and stories of transit leaders from around the world, but this week we have something a little different. Join Paul as he sits down with Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt to talk about transit, politics, and changing how people view public transit in his city.As David describes it, like many cities West of the Mississippi, Oklahoma City was planned, developed, and built for cars. Transit was seen as transportation of last resort. What this translated into was a sporadic and sparse transit system where people could wait...
2024-04-1028 minTransit UnpluggedTom Gerend and KC Streetcar contribute billions to Kansas City's economyUpdate July 31, 2024: This podcast episode, the companion podcast episode, and the Transit Unplugged TV episode were honored with a Spotlight Award by the South West Transit Association. More info here: https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-2024-spotlight-award/We kicked off 2024 with an episode with Rep. Earl Blumenauer--https://transit-unplugged.captivate.fm/portland-streetcar--who could be credited for the modern streetcar boom in America, and this week we see how streetcars actually drive billions in economic development in Kansas City. Streetcars aren't just moving people and connecting the city in Kansas City, they are driving businesses like the aptly named Streetcar Grill...
2024-04-0328 minTransit UnpluggedCan KCATA Make Transit Oriented Development a Reality in Kansas City?Update July 31, 2024: This podcast episode, the companion podcast episode, and the Transit Unplugged TV episode were honored with a Spotlight Award by the South West Transit Association. More info here: https://transitunplugged.com/transit-unplugged-2024-spotlight-award/Frank White III is a strong advocate of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and has a track record of making it happen. He oversaw TOD for Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) before becoming CEO nearly two years ago, now faced with a fiscal cliff, Frank is pushing KCATA into the future of transit and TOD.KCATA was one of the...
2024-03-2723 minTransit UnpluggedCan Hydrogen Hubs Push Hydrogen to the Forefront of Transportation Fuels?Hydrogen is one of the hottest topics in transit right now, but hydrogen is facing a huge challenge to reduce its cost and increase its availability across North America (and the world). Paul sits down with Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) CEO Kirt Conrad--who manages the largest fleet of hydrogen fuel cell buses outside California--and Ballard Power Systems Dir of Market Development and Public Affairs, Tim Sasseen to talk about hydrogen as a fuel, how hydrogen fuel cells work, and how the hydrogen hub project will break down barriers to adopting hydrogen as the zero-emissions fuel of choice.
2024-03-1326 minTransit UnpluggedPlacemaking in Tulsa: Secret Tunnels, Art Deco Buildings, and a Downtown Reborn Powered by Transit with Chase PhillipsIn part two of our series featuring Tulsa, OK, host Paul Comfort gets a special tour of Downtown Tulsa with Chase Phillips, the Director of Planning for MetroLink Tulsa. Chase talks about the city's rich history, architectural wonders, and the role of transit in its development. Chase sheds light on Tulsa's transformation from a 1920s hub of oil wealth, with the largest airport in the world at the time, to a vibrant city maintaining its historic charm with a modern makeover. They tour the city, exploring some iconic Art Deco buildings, hidden tunnels, and experiencing the quiet streets of...
2024-03-0619 minTransit UnpluggedScott Marr and MetroLink Tulsa get their kicks on Route 66 with BRT and microtransitIn the first of two podcast episodes--and an upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episode--from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Paul chats with MetroLink Tulsa (https://www.tulsatransit.org/) CEO Scott Marr about:His cityHis career in transitThe overwhelming success of microtransit and merging it with paratransit operationsHis plans for expanding Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to Route 66 for the 100th anniversaryAnd the path to lower emissions with CNG and battery-electric busesAfter a long career as a transit fixer across the U.S., Scott returned to Tulsa as the CEO taking the reins of a system revitalized with BRT and microtransit...
2024-02-2820 min
Transit UnpluggedSpecial Episode: Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardener with Art Guzzetti from The Transit AuthorityThis is a special episode of Transit Unplugged shared with us from our friends at the Transit Authority by APTA. Recorded live at APTA EXPO 2023 in Orlando, Florida, Art Guzzetti, VP of Policy and Mobility at APTA, interviews Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardener.Make sure you follow the Transit Authority wherever you listen to podcasts. Here are the show notes for this episode originally released October, 12, 2023."Recorded on the trade show floor at APTA’s EXPO 2023 in Orlando, Florida, our special guest Stephen Gardener, CEO of Amtrak, discusses a wide range of topics including Amtrak’s role...
2024-02-2141 minTransit UnpluggedHolly Arnold her path to the top job and managing the largest P3 in the U.S.Holly Arnold has spent her entire career at the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA). Starting as a contractor in grants administration then leading capital planning and then Deputy Administrator responsible for engineering before she became Administrator and CEO two years ago. The head of the MTA is a massive job. Not only is she responsible for massive capital projects--like the largest public-private partnership (P3) in the U.S., the Purple Line--she is responsible for transit in the City of Baltimore, supporting all the other transit agencies in the state, commuter bus, commuter rail, subways, and paratransit. Running the MTA is...
2024-02-1425 min
Transit UnpluggedWhat's the secret sauce to increasing ridership 27% in one year?When you think of big city transit agencies you think about Boston, New York, Toronto, LA, San Francisco...maybe not Mississauga, Ontario. It might surprise you that this city of one million people supports a transit system with over 500 buses and serves as the essential connector between cities East, West, and North (South is Lake Ontario). Mississauga Transit (or MiWay) helps people in Brampton, Oakville, and Toronto get to jobs and school.But they seem to be doing something right because they've increased ridership 27% over the last year and are at 109% of their 2019 ridership levels (let's stop...
2024-02-0726 min
Transit UnpluggedHidden Transit Heroes Revealed: How Rural Transit Serves Unseen CommunitiesWhen we think about public transit we often think about subways or buses travelling through bustling cities, we don't often think of small towns in the midst of woods and fields. But the reality is there are thousands of rural transit agencies in North America serving people and places miles and miles away from each other. In this episode, host Paul Comfort talks with with Wendy Weedon, Deputy CEO of the Brazos Transit District in Texas, and Eddie VanStein, the Steuben County Mobility Manager in Upstate New York, to discuss the often overlooked topic of rural transportation. Wendy and...
2024-01-3124 min
Transit UnpluggedIf we can't get new buses, how can we move more people?There is more than a little bit of irony that when we have unprecedented levels of funding to buy and replace buses, there is a manufacturing crunch so there are few buses to be had--and with longer delivery times. From manufacturing delays and fewer manufacturers to massive price increases, agencies are pushing buses well beyond their useful life. How can we solve this crisis to not only meet the needs of today's riders, but make the transition to zero emissions? To talk about the topic, this week's show features:- Ed Redfern and Joel Rubin from the...
2024-01-2431 min
Transit UnpluggedJust Don't Make Expensive Mistakes and Other Lessons from Adam Barth, CEO of the Stanislaus Regional Transit AuthoritySometimes we're so afraid of making mistakes, that we don't push ourselves to take a chance on a new innovative idea. We've all been there, but in this conversation Adam Barth, CEO of the Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority--https://stanrta.org/--, reveals advice he got from a mentor at a critical time in his career.Paul Comfort sat down with Adam Barth, CEO of Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority to talk about his career journey from starting our as a tour bus driver in Fairbanks, Alaska, to leading the newly merged transit Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority in Modesto...
2024-01-1727 min
Transit UnpluggedHow SEPTA is Making a Difference in the Lives of Vulnerable PeopleHost Paul Comfort interviews Ken Divers, Director of Outreach Programs at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), and Flora Castillo, President of Pivot Strategies and former APTA chair, about SEPTA's innovative SCOPE (Safety, Cleaning, Ownership, Partnership, and Engagement) program. Ken and Flora talk with Paul about how they created the program over a weekend and its goals for helping vulnerable people.One of the main goals is connecting people with resources to help them with housing, food, healthcare, and other services, but SCOPE is also about playing an active role in the homelessness crisis. SEPTA--and transit agencies--can't...
2024-01-1022 min
Transit Unplugged Weekly News Minute with Julie GatesNew TTC Streetcars in Toronto and Bus Rapid Transit in VancouverNew TTC Streetcars in Toronto and Bus Rapid Transit in Vancouver | Transit Unplugged News MinuteIn this episode of Transit Unplugged News Minute, Tris Hussey shares updates on Canada's public transit systems. Toronto's TTC has recently introduced the first of 60 new Alstom-made streetcars. Jointly funded by the TTC, the City of Toronto, and the Province of Ontario, the remaining streetcars are set to roll out by 2025. Meanwhile, Vancouver is preparing for a new Bus Rapid Transit system, with plans for up to nine routes over time. Specifics regarding timelines and budgets are still forthcoming. This episode is...
2023-11-2701 min
Transit UnpluggedThat Time When Defeating a Ballot Measure Was Good for Transit with Scott SmithUsually when people vote on ballot measures about transit, the transit agency and supporters want the measure to pass.Not in Phoenix in 2019.That ballot measure would have literally derailed bringing light rail--any rail--to Phoenix forever. Then Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith rallied support throughout Maricopa County and discovered there was overwhelming support for transit and light rail. So much support that the ballot measure was defeated by a landslide.But we start this episode with a somber anniversary, 60 years ago today John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. In a special...
2023-11-2232 min
Transit UnpluggedAI in Transit Panel with Eve Machol and Renee Autumn RayThis week we focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public transit with Eve Machol, Director of Aviation and Transportation Strategy at Microsoft, and Renee Autumn Ray, Senior Director of Transportation Policy at Hayden AI https://www.hayden.ai/. As both our guests point out, AI in transit isn't new; we've been using AI for years, but with recent attention on generative AI tools like ChatGPT, AI is the hot topic on everyone's minds.Eve and Renee talk with Paul and our Producer/Editor Tris Hussey about how transit agencies are already using AI, addressing concerns about using...
2023-10-1133 min
Transit UnpluggedIn Conversation with Laura Hendricks: How Transdev Brings Expertise to Agencies Across North AmericaThis week Paul talks with Laura Hendricks, CEO of Transdev US https://transdevna.com/ , about her career starting as a driver at FedEx, Trandev's global expertise transitioning to zero emissions, and how Transdev combined with First Transit brings more cohesive transit solutions to transit agencies.As the largest private transportation contractor in the world, Transdev is uniquely positioned to apply its global expertise to a wide range of transit needs and challenges. From zero emissions to schools to paratransit, Transdev covers the gamut of needs for communities. And Laura takes the responsibility to build and support a...
2023-10-0436 min
Transit UnpluggedDiana Kotler moves her community in the happiest place on Earth in AnaheimThis week join Paul in conversation with Diana Kotler, CEO of the Anaheim Transit Network https://rideart.org/. Recorded live at APTA Tech earlier this summer, Paul and Diana connect transit, tech, and people in this engaging interview.Diana runs a very unique transit system. It's funded by businesses, but all Anaheim residents and people who work in Anaheim ride for free. Tourists coming to visit the city pay a small fare to ride all day on a completely cashless system. And the goal of the system has always been to support the community and reduce congestion...
2023-09-2727 min
The Professionally Speaking PodcastEpisode 33: The Power of Effective Writing with Tris HusseyIn this illuminating episode of "The Professionally Speaking Podcast," we dive deep into the world of effective communication with Tris Hussey, a seasoned Communications Manager and writing virtuoso. Join us as we explore the invaluable insights and strategies Tris has acquired over his illustrious career, unveiling the secrets to becoming a proficient and persuasive communicator. Discover how mastering the art of writing can be a game-changer in any profession, enhancing your ability to convey ideas, influence decision-makers, and connect with your audience on a profound level. Tris shares his wealth of knowledge, from crafting compelling narratives to navigating the digital...
2023-09-2030 min
Transit UnpluggedCybersecurity, Safety Data, and Smart Cities -- Canadian Transit Tech Innovation Part 2We wrap up our special look at Canadian transit tech innovation with three great innovators in the transit tech landscape. We lead off with Paul in conversation with Jean-Pierre Baracat, VP and Partner at Cysca Technologies, talking about the need for enhanced operational cybersecurity for the vehicles and systems that power transit. Then Paul talks with Tim Bigwood, GM of Trapeze Workforce Management, about the need for agencies to have a single source of truth for all their safety-related data. Finally, we have Brad Cameron, CEO of BusPas, talking about using bus stops as data anchor points for smart...
2023-07-0541 min
Transit UnpluggedFocus on Canadian Transport Tech Innovation Part 1 EVs and New Transit ModelsThis week we kick off the first of two episodes focused on Canadian transportation tech and innovation. In this episode, Margaret Cullen, Trade Commissioner for the Canadian Consulate in Florida, joins Paul with Niklas Kviselius, Sr. Manager Innovation Management and New Mobility at TransLink, and Colin Lavery, Chief Growth Officer at Asset Market.On the show, the guests about the planning needed for the tsunami of EVs coming over the next several years and how agencies need to be more proactive in pushing innovation. Colin's focus is on using AI to figure out where EV chargers should...
2023-06-2831 min
Inside Trapeze and VontasSolutions for Disruption Management with Matt GoedkenTris Hussey, Producer of Transit Unplugged, and Langdon Kessner of Vontas chat with Vontas Technical Sales Specialist Matt Goedken about service disruptions and Disruption Management. It's a fact that in public transit, things don't always go to plan, but Vontas TransitMaster gives agencies powerful, flexible, and easy-to-use tools to manage disruptions, notify drivers, and communicate with riders almost like magic.Music by Derek K. Miller
2022-05-2509 min
Inside Trapeze and VontasBreaking Down Safety Data Silos with Trapeze RISCTris Hussey and Product Manager Sabrina Blais talk about Trapeze RISC (Risk, Incident, and Safety Compliance) and how to break down data silos. Transit and rail agencies have built their Safety Management Systems (SMS), but now face the task of tracking progress to goals. The big challenge: data silos. Safety and incident data is trapped in departmental data silos. Learn how RISC is going to change that.Read more in Sabrina's blog post: Breaking Down Safety Data Silos.Music "Dodging Buses" by Derek K. Miller.
2022-04-0718 min