Levi and Christian unpack the complexities behind on-time performance, exploring why being early can be worse than being late, how operators juggle impossible schedules, and the hidden challenges agencies face in defining and maintaining punctuality. They break down how this simple-sounding stat can be surprisingly complicated—and why it matters to both riders and agencies.

Ridership numbers often dominate transit discussions, but should they be the ultimate measure of success? Levi and Christian unpack the pros and cons, exploring how accessibility, service quality, and community impact factor in. Is a packed bus always a sign of a great system, or is there more to consider? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on what truly makes public transit effective.

In this special episode of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono welcome their first-ever guest, Yash Nagal, Director of Transit Planning at Palm Tran. Together, they dive into the nationwide surge in transit ridership, explore innovative strategies like Palm Tran's Buslink program, and discuss how frequency and integration can transform public transportation. Yash shares key insights on tailoring services to community needs, the role of land use in transit success, and why storytelling is essential for the future of public transit. Tune in to hear expert advice, inspiring examples, and actionable takeaways for agencies everywhere.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum explore the global landscape of battery electric bus adoption. From Shenzhen's fully electrified fleet to the ambitious goals in Latin America and Europe, they examine the challenges, successes, and trends shaping zero-emission transit worldwide. Tune in as they discuss the impact of policies like Buy America, the role of global manufacturers, and the environmental implications of electric vehicle batteries. Don't miss this insightful continuation of their series on zero-emission vehicles!

What does it take to electrify a transit fleet? In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono explain the challenges and benefits of zero-emission buses. Learn about the key technologies — from battery-electric to hydrogen fuel cells — and why transit agencies are racing to secure funding and develop Zero Emission Transition Plans. They also cover practical tips for agencies looking to start the shift, including infrastructure planning, working with power providers, and understanding the true costs of going electric.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum kick off 2025 by reflecting on the top 10 transit stories of 2024, as highlighted by Mass Transit magazine. From Penn Station’s capacity challenges to tackling wildcatting in San Diego, they explore major milestones, key trends, and what these stories mean for the future of public transportation. Plus, they give shoutouts to 2024’s 40 Under 40 honorees, celebrating the rising stars shaping the industry.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum explore how transit agencies are turning swag into powerful tools for branding, engagement, and creating community pride. They discuss the value of collectible transit merchandise, share their favorite swag stories, and uncover how these items build deeper connections with riders and fans alike.

In this festive episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian explore the delightful tradition of transit buses taking center stage in holiday parades and celebrations. From historical roots in London and New York City to the behind-the-scenes efforts of transit agencies, they discuss how these rolling holiday displays strengthen community ties and promote public transit. They also share insights on planning holiday services, detours, and the logistical challenges of decorating and staffing these events. Celebrate the season with us and discover how transit agencies nationwide are spreading holiday cheer!

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi tackle the urgent issue of assaults on transit workers, exploring alarming statistics that reveal a troubling rise in incidents over the past 15 years. They discuss the profound impact on bus operators, from PTSD to workforce shortages, and examine the societal factors contributing to these challenges. The conversation highlights strategies such as operator barriers, panic alarms, and public awareness campaigns, alongside new federal directives aimed at reducing assaults and improving safety culture. Join the discussion on how agencies, unions, and communities can work together to safeguard the backbone of public transit.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi focus on the issue of transit insecurity, examining how unreliable transportation impacts individuals and communities. Inspired by a recent Mass Transit Magazine article and national studies, they discuss challenges like poverty, access to opportunities, and the trade-offs between ridership and coverage. The conversation highlights innovative solutions such as on-demand systems, improved frequency, and increased public transit investment to create more equitable and accessible transportation networks. Join the discussion on how transit shapes lives and communities.