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Tiffany Gunter, GM + CEO of Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation, joins Paul Comfort to explain how SMART saw a 40% ridership increase on key high-volume corridors including Gratiot and Woodward. She shares the operational changes behind the gains—from stronger on-time performance and improved frequencies to cleaner shelters, onboard Wi-Fi, and a renewed focus on customer experience. Tiffany also shares her journey from transportation planner to CEO, and why hands-on leadership matters—including 3:30 AM terminal visits, riding with frontline teams, and tackling operational issues firsthand. She explains how SMART improved on-time performance from 65% to 76% in just weeks by focusing the organization on clear goals, communication, and a little friendly competition. The conversation also explores Detroit’s resurgence, microtransit expansion, youth fare initiatives, and why telling a positive story about transit has never been more important. In This Episode: Tiffany’s career path from planner to CEO Why “presence matters” in transit leadership How SMART rapidly improved on-time performance Gamifying performance with the “OTP Challenge” Growing ridership through better service and amenities Detroit’s comeback and transit’s role in regional growth Free rides for students and future workforce development Why storytelling matters for public transportation today 00:00 Meet Tiffany Gunter 01:30 Think Transit Reunion 03:00 Finding the X Factor 03:42 Transit Career Origin 05:37 Hands On Leadership 10:14 Detroit Transit Landscape 13:52 Culture of Care 17:53 Down With OTP 18:45 Daily Performance Huddles 20:01 Leaderboards And Buy In 21:51 Detroit Comeback Story 25:07 Big Events Transit Surge 25:55 Cutting the highlighted section below bc this has already happened 27:30 Future Plans And Free Rides 31:40 Leadership Lessons And Wrap 32:29 Not sure if this should be included Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Transit 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 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.

How Transit CEOs Are Tackling Safety, Growth, and Leadership — Live from ThinkTransit This week on Transit Unplugged, we take you live to Boston for a special CEO Roundtable recorded at the ThinkTransit Conference—featuring four of the most influential leaders in public transportation today. Host Paul Comfort sits down with: Jay Fox — Executive Director, Utah Transit Authority Nora Leerhsen — Acting President, Chicago Transit Authority Richard A. Davey — CEO, Massport (former MBTA & NYC Transit leader) Harry Wilson — Chair & CEO, MV Transportation Recorded in front of a live audience of transit professionals, this candid conversation explores what it really takes to lead large-scale transit systems in 2026. What You’ll LearnLeadership Paths to the TopFrom law and finance to teaching and federal service, each CEO shares the unconventional journey that led them to the top—and what they learned along the way. What CEOs Actually DoRunning a major transit system isn’t just operations—it’s politics, people, culture, and constant decision-making at scale. The Reality of Safety in TransitA powerful, nuanced discussion on safety—from frontline presence and policing to the deeper issues of mental health and homelessness shaping the conversation today. Culture, Teams, and PerformanceWhy high-performing teams—not individuals—drive results, and how agencies are building cultures of continuous improvement. Big Ideas in MotionAirport-to-terminal security via transit (Massport innovation) System-wide culture transformation and teamwork (MV Transportation) Continuous improvement at scale (UTA) Reframing public perception through storytelling and pride (CTA) Key TakeawaysTransit is more than transportation—it reflects society itself. Safety requires more than enforcement—it demands strategy, presence, and partnership. Great agencies are built on culture, not just operations. Leaders must balance vision with execution—every single day. This is a rare, unfiltered look inside the minds of transit CEOs—how they think, how they lead, and how they’re navigating one of the most complex and essential industries in the world. Whether you're an operator, policymaker, or future leader, this episode offers a masterclass in modern transit leadership. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Transit 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 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.

Paul Comfort talks with Patrick Preusser, Chief Operating Officer of Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD), to unpack the reality of delivering transit service across one of the largest and most complex systems in the U.S. Serving over 3 million people across 2,000+ square miles, RTD operates a multimodal network of bus, light rail, commuter rail, paratransit, and emerging microtransit services—all coordinated under a $1.3 billion operation. As part of our “The Doers” series, this conversation focuses on the leaders responsible for turning strategy into service—and Patrick offers a rare, inside look at what that really means. In this episode, you’ll learn: What a Chief Operating Officer actually does in a major transit agency How RTD manages daily service for 135,000+ riders The key KPIs driving performance—from on-time service to cost efficiency Why Denver embraced frequent regional rail before it became industry standard How transit agencies are adapting to new ridership patterns post-pandemic The role of technology, safety, and data dashboards in modern operations What’s ahead for Denver, including BRT expansion, rail reconstruction, and major development projects A system built for scale—and the future From direct rail service to Denver International Airport to major upcoming investments like the East Colfax BRT line, RTD is positioning itself for long-term growth in one of America’s fastest-evolving regions. Patrick also reflects on his journey through the industry—from starting as a transit user in Chicago to leading operations in Denver—and what it means to be one of the “doers” responsible for delivering service where it matters most: on the street. Listen now to learn how transit strategy becomes real-world service. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Transit 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 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.

This week on Transit Unplugged, we continue our “The Doers” series—highlighting the transit leaders who are not just setting strategy, but delivering results on the ground. Paul Comfort sits down with Shofi Ull Azum, Chief Planning and Development Officer at Cherriots in Salem, Oregon—a mid-size agency achieving something few systems have managed: ridership that exceeds pre-pandemic levels by more than 12%. Shofi shares a tactical, inside look at how his team is turning planning, innovation, and partnerships into measurable growth—and what other agencies can learn from their approach. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What actually drives ridership growth Why adding weekend and evening service unlocked new demand How aligning service with real community needs—not assumptions—changes outcomes The role of fare policy, frequency, and accessibility in rebuilding ridership The power of targeted programs How a youth zero-fare program now drives up to 25–30% of ridership Why investing in younger riders is really about building long-term transit culture How partnerships with schools and state funding made it possible Reliability as the foundation Why on-time performance is the baseline for trust How Cherriots improved performance to 88% on-time—above their target The operational fixes that made the biggest difference (including reducing early departures) Using technology to modernize the rider experience Real-time tracking and GTFS-RT deployment Traffic signal priority to improve reliability on high-ridership corridors The importance of clean, accurate data for smarter planning decisions Building a multimodal future Why transit agencies need to evolve beyond fixed routes How microtransit, bike share, and partnerships with TNCs fit into the system The goal: becoming a true regional mobility integrator Key Takeaway Ridership growth isn’t accidental—it’s the result of intentional service design, strong partnerships, and a relentless focus on reliability and access. As Shofi puts it, success comes from giving people real options—and building a system that fits how they actually live and move today. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Transit 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 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 episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Amanda Vandegrift, Deputy CEO of Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer at WeGo Public Transit in Nashville. This conversation is part of our “The Doers” series—highlighting transit leaders who are not just setting vision, but actively delivering results on the ground. Amanda shares her unique journey from private-sector consultant—where she helped design Nashville’s “Choose How You Move” ballot initiative—to becoming the executive responsible for implementing it inside the agency. With a newly approved funding stream, a growing system, and rising ridership, Nashville offers a real-world case study in how agencies can move from planning to execution—and actually deliver on what voters approved. What You’ll Learn: How to move from a transit referendum to real-world implementation What it takes to shift an agency from maintenance mode to growth How WeGo is achieving double-digit ridership gains Why staffing and recruitment must come before expansion How a low-income fare program can drive access and usage The role of microtransit partnerships like WeGo Link with Uber How to build financial stability with a $47M reserve fund Why today’s transit CFO is a strategic operator—not just a numbers role From Ballot to Bus Service Amanda played a key role in developing Nashville’s “Choose How You Move” initiative—a half-cent sales tax increase designed to fund billions in transit improvements. Now inside the agency, she’s helping implement: Expanded bus service and increased frequency New transit centers and corridor investments First-mile/last-mile solutions through microtransit A free transit program for qualifying riders Long-term system growth backed by dedicated funding The early results are already showing up, with ridership increases ranging from 10% to 30% as service improves and barriers are removed. Innovation Spotlight: First/Last Mile That Works WeGo’s partnership model with Uber is helping bridge the gap between riders and fixed-route service: 19 service zones (and expanding) $2 rides—or free for eligible users Direct connections to high-frequency routes Delivered at a relatively low cost to the agency It’s a scalable example of how agencies can extend their reach without overextending fixed-route service. Host: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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. 00:00 Welcome to Nashville 00:14 Expansion Culture and CFO Role 00:22 Meet Amanda Vandergrift 02:15 Working with Steve Bland 03:34 Two Agencies One Brand 05:08 Contracting and Access Service 06:22 From Consultant to CFO 08:27 Choose How You Move Wins 09:22 Quick Wins and Free Fares 11:29 Wego Link Uber Zones

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort explores a question many transit agencies are asking today: Do operators make the best transit leaders? Paul’s guest, Michael Dylan Pal, Director of Public Transit for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) in Buffalo, has lived that journey firsthand. Pal began his career behind the wheel as a bus operator for New York City Transit, eventually rising through the ranks of the MTA, serving in senior leadership roles across multiple agencies, and later helping lead operations at Valley Metro in Phoenix before returning to New York to oversee transit in the Buffalo–Niagara region. In this conversation, Pal reflects on how starting on the front lines shaped his leadership philosophy—and why understanding the daily realities of operators can make a real difference when managing a complex transit system. Today, Pal leads the NFTA Metro system, which provides bus, light rail, and paratransit service to the Buffalo–Niagara region—supporting more than a million residents and carrying roughly 50,000–60,000 riders on a typical weekday. Paul and Michael discuss: How Pal’s career started as a bus operator in Brooklyn What transit leaders can learn from working on the front lines The transition from Phoenix’s desert system to Buffalo’s winter operations Major projects underway in Buffalo, including the DL&W Station redevelopment Plans for the Amherst rail extension The upcoming Bailey Bus Rapid Transit corridor Fleet modernization, electric buses, and future propulsion strategies Pal also shares how Buffalo is experiencing a new wave of investment and growth, and how transit is playing a key role in connecting people to jobs, education, and opportunity across Western New York. For Pal, the lesson is simple: the best transit leaders never forget what it’s like to serve riders and support operators every day. Host: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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.

Welcome to the first part of a series we're calling "The Doers"! Public safety is one of the most urgent issues facing transit systems today. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Kevin Scott, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Security at Bi-State Development / St. Louis Metro Transit, to discuss a bold initiative that is reshaping safety across the region’s light rail network. Scott explains how St. Louis developed its Secure Platform Plan, a comprehensive strategy that combines infrastructure upgrades, technology, and partnerships with law enforcement to strengthen security on the MetroLink light rail system. The results are already striking: stations where the program has been implemented have seen a 50% reduction in criminal incidents and a significant increase in ridership. During the conversation, Scott walks through how the plan evolved from a detailed security assessment that produced 99 recommendations, and how those insights helped guide long-term improvements across the system. The episode also explores the powerful connection between actual safety improvements and the perception of safety — and why both are critical to attracting riders back to transit. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why St. Louis shifted from an open platform light rail system to secured stations How gating, fencing, and expanded CCTV coverage are changing security operations The role of security partnerships with local law enforcement and contracted security teams Why perception of safety matters just as much as actual incident reduction How safer stations are helping drive ridership growth across the system Scott also shares how the agency is upgrading fare collection systems alongside the security infrastructure, creating a modernized transit experience for riders while strengthening enforcement against fare evasion. As transit agencies nationwide prioritize safety and security, the St. Louis experience offers valuable lessons for systems considering similar investments. Links Learn more about the Secure Platform Plan: https://www.metrostlouis.org Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Editor: Patrick Emile Transit 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 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. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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 milestone episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort celebrates Episode 400 and nearly a decade of conversations with the leaders shaping public transportation around the world. To kick off the episode, Paul sits down with Mark Miller, President of Constellation Software and Executive Chairman of the Volaris Group. Mark reflects on the early days of the podcast, the thinking behind creating a platform for industry dialogue, and why connecting transit leaders across agencies and continents continues to matter. The episode also features a 10-year retrospective on the growth of Transit Unplugged, including a behind-the-scenes conversation with producer Chris O’Keeffe about the evolution of podcasting, the expansion into on-location recordings and video, and what it takes to reach the rare milestone of 400 episodes. Later in the episode, Executive Producer Julie Gates joins Paul for a listener mailbag segment, answering audience questions about favorite episodes, memorable travel moments, and transit systems that continue to inspire innovation. Over the past decade, Transit Unplugged has featured CEOs, agency leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across the globe—sharing ideas and best practices that help move the industry forward. As Paul reminds listeners in this episode, public transportation is about far more than vehicles and infrastructure. At its core, transit is about serving people and connecting communities. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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.

Transit’s future is all about people. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort talks with Geisha Ester, Executive Director of the National Transit Institute (NTI) at Rutgers University, about why workforce development has become the industry’s most important investment — and how agencies and professionals can take advantage of it right now. NTI, funded by the Federal Transit Administration, delivers no-cost training for transit professionals across the United States, helping agencies upskill their teams, strengthen succession planning, and prepare for a rapidly changing mobility landscape. Geisha shares: How you and your staff can access free, high-impact NTI courses The most in-demand training areas, including procurement, service planning, safety, and leadership How agencies are using NTI as a real succession-planning tool Three ways to partner with NTI — as a participant, host agency, or instructor Why workforce development is central to the industry’s future She also tells her remarkable second-generation transit story, from high-school intern and rail conductor at Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to Vice President of Training and Workforce Development — and now national leadership at NTI — and offers practical advice for emerging professionals and women pursuing leadership roles in transit. 🎓 Explore courses and get connected: NTIonline.com This episode closes out our “Fantastic February” series highlighting the people and ideas moving public transportation forward. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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 Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting, this special episode of Transit Unplugged tackles a big question: Does research actually improve public transportation? Host Paul Comfort is joined by three leaders who are turning studies into real-world results: Art Guzzetti, Vice President, Policy, American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Kate Ko, PhD, Vice President, WSP Michael Walk, Research Scientist, Texas A&M Transportation Institute Together they break down how the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) moves ideas from problem statements to implementation — and why agencies that use research make faster, smarter, and more rider-focused decisions. You’ll hear: The Baltimore bus network redesign that started with a research project How automation will reshape — not eliminate — the transit workforce New funding tools like value capture and congestion pricing The link between operator culture, health, and retention Why accessibility, safety, and customer experience are driving the next wave of studies This is a behind-the-scenes look at the evidence, data, and collaboration that quietly power better transit for millions of riders. If you work in transit and aren’t using this research — you’re leaving solutions on the table. Credits Host and Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O’Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Transit 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 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 Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, this episode of Transit Unplugged features a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation with Bridgette Beato, Chair of WTS (Women’s Transportation Seminar) and Founder and CEO of Lumenor Consulting Group. Bridgette joins host Paul Comfort to unpack the evolving role of women in public transportation—and the systems, networks, and intentional choices that help leaders thrive at every stage of their careers. From WTS’s nearly 50-year history to its current global footprint of more than 10,000 members, Bridgette explains how the organization attracts, advances, and retains women across all modes of transportation through scholarships, training, mentorship, and community. The conversation also dives into Bridgette’s own career journey, from management information systems and large-scale technology implementations to launching and growing Lumenor Consulting into a multi-disciplinary firm supporting transit agencies across North America. Along the way, she reflects on entrepreneurship born out of necessity, the realities of small business growth in the public sector, and why intentional career planning matters—especially in moments of rapid industry transformation. Paul and Bridgette explore the importance of mentorship, executive peer spaces, and raising your hand for opportunity, as well as the role organizations like WTS play in helping leaders navigate change, loneliness at the top, and the shifting landscape of technology, funding, and innovation in transit. This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking seriously about leadership, equity, and long-term career growth in transportation—and for those looking to understand how community and intention shape the future of the industry. Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] 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, 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. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.

On this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort is joined by Roger Harris, President of Amtrak, for an in-depth look at what’s driving momentum at America’s national railroad. Roger breaks down a remarkable 2025 for Amtrak—highlighting record ridership, revenue growth, and historic capital investment—and shares what’s ahead in 2026 as the organization stays focused on one core priority: running a great railroad. Paul and Roger explore how Amtrak operates as both a passenger rail provider and a critical infrastructure partner—especially in the complex Northeast Corridor ecosystem where commuter agencies and intercity rail depend on shared networks, tunnels, and bridges. Roger also digs into how smarter scheduling, strong demand, and modernized service planning are fueling growth—while new investment helps deliver more consistent reliability and a stronger customer experience. They also preview what’s coming next, including the NextGen Acela rollout, the future of Airo fleet modernization, and new service momentum like the Amtrak Mardi Gras route. Plus, Roger shares how Amtrak is preparing to support major national moments ahead—including World Cup travel and America 250. In this episode, you’ll hear: What drove Amtrak’s record performance in 2025 Why “running a great railroad” means consistency, tools, and reliability How Amtrak supports commuter partners as an infrastructure provider What’s next for NextGen Acela and Airo fleet modernization How Amtrak is preparing for World Cup crowds and America 250 Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] 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, 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. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.

Transit Unplugged wraps a six-part “State of Transit” series to kick off 2026, Paul Comfort is joined by Hayden Clarkin — transportation engineer, mobility consultant, Mass Transit Magazine Top 40 Under 40 honoree, and one of the industry’s most-followed voices online, known as “The Transit Guy.” In a wide-ranging conversation from New York City, Paul and Hayden break down the biggest forces shaping transit right now — from automation and AI to Amtrak expansion, station revitalization, and the growing push for better rider information and wayfinding. In this episode, we cover: Why transit automation is gaining momentum — and why new lines should be designed for it from day one What WMATA’s Automatic Train Operation progress could mean for capacity, reliability, and cost efficiency Where AI can create real value today (and where the hype still outpaces reality) What privatization could look like in North America — and what we can learn from global models Why night trains are resurging in Europe, and whether a similar model could work here The future of Amtrak, corridor expansion, and the challenges of state-by-state rail planning The return of iconic train stations — and why station location matters as much as architecture How wayfinding and real-time information can make transit easier for everyone (including first-timers) If you’re looking for a fast, smart snapshot of where transit is headed next, this episode is your roadmap. Follow Hayden Clarkin: “The Transit Guy”: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haydenclarkin/ https://www.instagram.com/thetransitguy/ https://thetransitguy.substack.com/ Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] 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, 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. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.

What’s the state of transit in Canada right now—and what’s next? In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Dave Reage, Chair of the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) and a longtime transit leader with deep experience in Halifax Transit. Dave shares a national view of Canada’s biggest transit priorities—from funding and financial stability to ridership shifts, workforce challenges, and the evolving role of technology and innovation. Dave also reflects on Halifax’s unique transit story (including its historic harbor ferries) and explains why Canada’s post-pandemic demand patterns are rewriting the rules—creating new pressure to match service levels with changing rider behavior. In this episode, you’ll hear:How Canadian transit governance differs from the U.S. modelWhy operating funding is one of the biggest challenges facing agencies across CanadaWhat ridership recovery looks like now—and why off-peak and weekend travel is risingThe “new normal” for demand: Wednesday peaks, lighter Mondays and FridaysThe workforce crunch impacting reliability, operations, and service deliveryWhy electrification matters, but shouldn’t distract from service fundamentalsWhat’s happening with hydrogen pilots and alternative propulsion strategiesHow microtransit and on-demand service are filling service gapsThe growing federal emphasis on aligning transit investment with housing and land use Featured GuestDave Reage Chair, Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) Formerly with Halifax Transit (18 years), including nine years leading the agency Also MentionedCUTA (Canadian Urban Transit Association)Halifax, Nova ScotiaMontreal / Quebec CityCanadian Public Transit FundTransit-oriented development and housing integration Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] 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, 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. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.

What does 2026 look like for small urban and rural transit agencies across America—and what happens when costs rise faster than funding can keep up? In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort is joined by Julie Brown, General Manager of Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) in southern Oregon, President of the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA), and Chair of the Oregon Transportation Commission. Julie pulls back the curtain on the real, day-to-day pressures facing agencies like hers—from funding uncertainty at the state level to escalating labor and vehicle costs, rising insurance rates, and the growing cybersecurity risks that come with modern transit tech. She also challenges the industry to move beyond ridership as the defining success metric, and instead tell a more human story about what transit actually makes possible: access to work, healthcare, independence, and quality of life—especially as the “silver tsunami” reshapes mobility needs nationwide. Key topics include: Why RVTD expanded from 10 routes to 16—and why they had to cut back to 6 routes The real-world impact of layoffs and service reductions The exploding cost of vehicle replacement (and what sustainability requirements mean on the ground) Insurance increases hitting agencies and contractors alike Cybersecurity threats tied to fare systems and onboard technology What CTAA is tracking in Washington as reauthorization conversations continue Why the future of transit must be measured in human outcomes, not just raw numbers If you care about how transit actually survives—and evolves—outside of the biggest metro systems, this conversation is essential listening. Host + Producer: Paul Comfort Executive Producer: Julie Gates Producer: Chris O'Keeffe Editor: Patrick Emile Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] 📩 Sign up for the Transit Unplugged Newsletter: https://transitunplugged.com/subscrib 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, 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. This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Modaxo disclaims all warranties and liability arising from the use of this material.