Freight rail keeps America’s economy and supply chain moving—but much of its impact goes unseen. In this episode of Coffee Break, GoRail President Betsy Cantwell talks grassroots advocacy, infrastructure grants and how GoRail is helping communities understand the benefits of a strong, modern freight rail network.📩 Sign up for The Signal: https://www.aar.org/signal

From AI and automation to wayside detectors and the future of freight rail, Signal Editor Kathy sits down with MXV Rail President and CEO Kari Gonzales to explore how innovation is making one of America's oldest industries safer and smarter. Kari shares how research moves new technologies from the test track to the main line, why people remain at the center of every technological advancement, and what it takes to build the railroad of the future. Plus, hear why her advice for the next generation is simple: Be gritty.👉 Sign up for The Signal: https://www.aar.org/signal

It’s Ted’s turn as Coffee Break host! In this episode, he sits down with STB Chairman Patrick Fuchs for a candid conversation on the future of rail regulation — covering everything from permitting reform and data modernization to balancing oversight with economic growth. 📩 Sign Up for The Signal: https://www.aar.org/signal🎙️Find Coffee Break on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-signal-coffee-break/id1895956307 and YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnkyqwBrkG4sgWtSTSdkmVrwN_wsFy1zZ

Join Signal Editor Kathy and AAR's AVP of Safety Policy and Analysis Brenda Moscoso for the first episode of Coffee Break, a new series featuring conversations with railroad experts. In this episode, they discuss rail safety trends, what’s driving record improvements in 2025, and how technology and human expertise work together to keep railroads safe.📩 Sign up for The Signal: https://www.aar.org/signal

Kathy and Ted—editors of AAR’s biweekly newsletter—are stepping in front of the camera after more than eight years and almost 200 editions to introduce something new: Coffee Break, a video series bringing you closer to the people who know the railroad industry best. Each episode features real conversations with subject matter experts on the topics shaping rail today — from safety performance and economics to the latest policy happenings in Washington. The newsletter isn’t going anywhere; this is just the next step. Sign up for The Signal: https://www.aar.org/signal