Transit Unplugged

What does a great transit leader leave behind?

For Ken McDonald, President and CEO of Long Beach Transit and the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) 2025 Outstanding Public Transportation CEO of the Year, leadership isn’t just about running a successful agency. It’s about making the people around you better—and giving them the knowledge and opportunities to become leaders themselves.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort talks with Ken about the lessons he’s learned across four decades in public transportation and 13 years leading Long Beach Transit. Ken explains why sharing knowledge is a responsibility of leadership, how developing future transit executives has become part of his legacy, and why strong leaders also need trusted “thought partners” who challenge them and help them grow.

They also explore how Long Beach Transit keeps the customer at the center of its operation. Ken shares how the agency’s Achieving Customer Excellence program asks employees to ride the system and map the journey from a passenger’s perspective—then use what they learn to improve service, information, and the overall customer experience.

Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, Ken shares three lessons from the FIFA World Cup that he believes will be critical to delivering successful transportation: detailed preparation, thorough communication across the entire organization, and trusting staff to execute the plan.

Ken and Paul also discuss operational discipline, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, workforce development, zero-emission transit, and why customer excellence should remain at the center of every decision transit leaders make.

It’s a conversation about running a transit agency—but even more, it’s about building a leadership legacy that lasts long after you leave.

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:28 Meet Ken McDonald

02:28 APTA Expo CEO Roundtable

04:34 Interview Begins

04:44 Conversation Begins

05:54 CEO of the Year Honor

06:44 Ken’s Career Journey

09:20 Long Beach Transit Service Area

09:55 Fleet and Zero Emission Shift

11:34 Funding and Grants

14:07 Governance and Ridership Impact

16:25 Leadership and Customer Excellence

19:45 ACE Customer Excellence

22:27 Richer Bus Info

22:53 Leaders Ken Developed

23:20 Sharing Knowledge Mindset

24:03 Fruitfulness And Service

24:33 Thought Partners In Leadership

24:58 Olympics Prep Begins

25:30 FIFA Lessons For Olympics

26:51 Trust Staff To Execute

27:21 Olympics Planning Experience

28:22 Technology Partnership Awards

29:26 What Leaders Focus On

30:15 AI And Workforce Training

31:32 Closing Thanks And Credits

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

Does commuter rail still describe what the service is becoming in many cities?

Across the industry, the traditional model of carrying workers downtown in the morning and home again in the evening is evolving. At Metra in Chicago, that change is showing up in a fascinating way: total ridership remains below 2019 levels, but CEO and Executive Director Jim Derwinski says Metra now serves more unique passengers than it did before the pandemic.

People are still riding. They're just riding differently.

This week on Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort takes the show aboard a Metra train in Chicago to explore another chapter in the continuing evolution of commuter rail—and what happens when a system built around the commute starts serving a much broader range of trips.

Metra is responding by spreading service more evenly throughout the day, improving connections between lines and attracting more discretionary and weekend riders. Jim calls the strategy regional rail, part of a broader shift away from designing service almost entirely around traditional rush hours.

But changing commuter rail in Chicago comes with some extraordinary operational challenges.

Metra operates 11 lines and roughly 700 revenue trains a day at the center of the nation's rail network. Its trains interact with six Class I freight railroads and Amtrak, meaning more frequency and better connections also require navigating one of the most complicated rail environments in the country.

Jim and Paul also look at the next chapter for the wider Chicago transit network through the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA). Metra, Chicago Transit Authority and Pace are moving toward greater regional coordination, with opportunities for integrated fares, fare capping, better multimodal connections and service that makes transferring between systems easier for passengers.

Parts of Chicago's rail network still rely on air-powered switching technology dating to the 1930s. At the same time, Metra is preparing to test battery-powered trains and introduce a new generation of smart railcars—putting nearly a century of rail technology side by side on the same system.

Jim also shares his own Metra story, from joining the agency as an electrician after serving in the Navy and working in freight rail to eventually becoming its CEO.

In this episode:

- Why the term "commuter rail" may no longer tell the whole story

- How changing travel patterns are reshaping when and why people ride Metra

- Why Metra has more unique passengers even as total trips remain below 2019 levels

- What the shift toward regional rail looks like in practice

- How Metra operates 700 daily trains in the center of America's freight rail network

- Why frequency and better connections are critical to attracting new trips

- How Metra, CTA and Pace could become a more integrated regional network

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:20 Meet Metra CEO Jim

01:19 Riding the Train Live

01:25 Metra Network Overview

01:52 Sharing Tracks With Freight

02:49 Chicago Rail Spiderweb

03:07 Class One Railroads Explained

03:21 Amtrak and Metra Yards

03:41 Metra Origins and Subsidies

04:02 Chicago Dispatching Challenges

04:50 A2 Tower Time Capsule

05:21 Union Station and Terminals

05:58 Ridership Today and Peaks

06:17 Post Pandemic Rider Shift

06:37 Regional Rail Scheduling

08:08 How Far Metra Reaches

08:40 Transit Unplugged Promo Break

09:13 NITA and System Integration

09:50 Universal Fares and Capping

10:21 Farebox Recovery and Funding

11:35 Building Hubs and Frequency

13:05 Commuter Rail Coalition View

15:07 Jim Derwinski Career Story

15:53 Future Expansion and New Tech

17:08 Battery Trains and Smart Cars

18:45 PTC and Operations Changes

19:38 Old Towers to Remote Control

20:27 NITA Timeline and Next Steps

22:13 Wrap Up and Credits

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer and Thumbnail Photo: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

What if the work you're meant to do isn't something you find—but something you build?

In Part II of Transit Unplugged's special Find Your X Factor series, Paul Comfort talks with two transportation leaders whose very different careers reveal how our experiences, abilities, and passions can eventually come together into something bigger.

Mike Heidkamp spent his career working his way through nearly every level of public transportation. As a teenager on his own after losing his mother, the 41B bus in Pittsburgh was his lifeline to a job. Years later, he would go from auto mechanic to bus operator, instructor, manager, and ultimately Chief Transportation Officer at what is now Pittsburgh Regional Transit.

Mike talks with Paul about realizing that being good at something isn't necessarily the same as finding your purpose—and how his own experiences taught him to build a career around serving people.

His leadership philosophy is just as simple: never forget where you came from. Mike explains why frontline employees and passengers remained at the center of his thinking even as he moved into senior leadership, and why gaining a bigger voice also means gaining a responsibility to use it for others.

Then, Rudy Salo shares a very different path to finding his X Factor.

A municipal bond lawyer with lifelong interests in creativity and public transportation, Rudy realized there were important parts of himself that his day job wasn't exercising. Improv, acting, stand-up comedy, writing and podcasting helped him rediscover that creative side—and eventually helped reshape his professional career.

When the transportation work Rudy wanted wasn't coming to him, he didn't quit his job. He started creating opportunities outside of it. Through writing, speaking, podcasting and becoming part of the transportation community, he built a reputation around something he genuinely cared about. Eventually, his passion and his profession began to intersect.

Together, the conversations offer two paths toward the same idea: your X Factor can emerge from the experiences that shaped you, but you can also take an active role in creating the opportunities that bring it to life.

In this episode:

- How public transportation became a lifeline—and eventually a calling—for Mike Heidkamp

- Why great leaders never forget what it's like on the front line

- The difference between being good at something and finding meaningful work

- Why Rudy Salo considers creativity essential to both his happiness and professional success

- How interests outside your day job can create new career opportunities

- Why you don't necessarily have to quit your job to pursue the work you really want

- How to recognize the intersection between your interests, abilities, and purpose

00:00 Welcome and X Factor Series

00:55 Meet Mike and Rudy

02:33 Mike Saved by Transit

03:35 41B Bus Lifeline

05:50 Mechanic to Purpose

07:03 Operator Years Serving Riders

08:12 Never Forget Frontline

10:12 Management Calling and Union

11:31 Leading with Voice

18:09 Rudy Creativity Awakens

26:20 Punk Rock Lifeline

27:08 Scene and Belonging

27:57 Politics Through Lyrics

28:42 Finding Municipal Finance

30:51 Library Moment Click

32:48 Creativity in Bond Law

35:12 Beyond One Box

35:58 Transit Roots and Hustle

39:03 Side Projects Create Luck

45:56 Final Takeaways and Wrap

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

What happens when the bus can actually beat the car?

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Melinda Metzger, Executive Director of Pace Suburban Bus, for a conversation recorded at Pace’s ADA headquarters in downtown Chicago.

Melinda has spent 42 years at Pace, beginning as a summer intern and eventually working her way through planning, operations, procurement, and executive leadership. She takes Paul inside an agency that now serves 274 communities across a six-county region with fixed-route buses, express service, Pulse rapid transit, vanpools, on-demand transportation, and one of the largest paratransit operations in the country.

They explore some of Pace’s most successful innovations, including traffic signal priority, real-time rider information, Van Go first- and last-mile service, and Bus on Shoulder—an approach that lets Pace buses move around congestion on Chicago-area expressways and has helped drive dramatic ridership growth on participating routes.

Melinda also discusses Pace’s role in providing regional ADA paratransit, why improving accessibility can make transit better for everyone, and how the agency is approaching the transition from the Regional Transportation Authority to the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority.

Finally, Melinda reflects on four decades of change at Pace, the employees and customers who have shaped her career, and the legacy she hopes to leave as the agency expands its facilities and continues its transition toward zero-emission buses.

In this episode:

- Why frequency, speed, and reliability can bring riders back to transit

- How Bus on Shoulder helped transform ridership on Pace routes

- What it takes to provide thousands of paratransit trips every day across Chicago and its suburbs

- How Pace uses technology to make service more predictable and easier to use

- What the creation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority could mean for regional fares and coordination

- How vanpool, Van Go, and on-demand services are solving first- and last-mile challenges

- Melinda’s journey from summer intern to Executive Director

- The investments in facilities, training, and electric buses shaping Pace’s next chapter

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

01:07 Inside Pace ADA HQ

01:12 Inside Pace ADA HQ

01:25 Paratransit Scale and Partners

01:25 Paratransit at Scale

02:03 Taxis and Rideshare Partners

02:21 42 Years at Pace

02:21 42 Years at Pace

02:34 From Intern to Leader

02:34 From Intern to Leader

03:05 RTA Split and Pace Growth

03:05 RTA Split and Pace Growth

04:06 What Pace Operates Today

04:06 What Pace Operates Today

04:51 How Pace Fits Chicago Transit

04:53 Regional ADA for Chicago

05:14 RTA to NITA Transition

05:14 RTA to NITA Transition

06:07 Embracing Change Culture

06:07 Embracing Change Culture

07:18 Why the Name Pace

07:18 Why the Name Pace

07:33 Working with CTA and Metra

07:33 Working with CTA and Metra

08:58 Customer Focus and More Service

08:58 Customer Focus and More Service

09:37 Signal Priority and Real Time Tech

09:37 Signal Priority and Pulse Tech

10:42 Real Time Info for Riders

10:56 Rider Tools and Better Signage

11:58 Break and Show Promos

11:58 Break and Show Promos

12:38 Accessibility as a Civil Right

12:38 Accessibility as a Civil Right

13:40 Dial a Ride and On Demand Options

13:40 Dial a Ride and On Demand

15:52 Bus on Shoulder Success

15:52 Bus on Shoulder and Innovation

17:26 Vanpool and Van Go Programs

19:05 Transit App Integration

20:05 Legacy Facilities and Electrification

20:05 Legacy and What’s Next

22:20 Facilities Training and EV Future

24:11 Final Thanks and Sign Off

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Camera: Jaime Cuadra

Second Camera: Sophie Cuadra

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

What happens when the things you’re naturally good at intersect with the things that give you energy?

In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort brings his new book, Find Your X Factor, to life through conversations with two leaders who found very different ways to turn their interests, abilities, and experiences into meaningful careers.

First, Paul talks with Noah Berger, CEO of Merrimack Valley Transit, about the unlikely intersection of public transportation and the arts. Noah shares how his background as both a transit professional and an artist helped him rethink the rider experience—from brightly redesigned buses and murals to public spaces that feel more welcoming and connected to the communities they serve.

But finding your X Factor isn't just about following your passions. Noah and Paul also discuss why mastering the less glamorous parts of the job—regulations, compliance, funding, and operations—builds the foundation and trust leaders need to eventually do things differently.

Then, Rod Jones, Head of Modaxo Americas and ANZ, joins Paul to trace an X Factor that has followed him across industries: understanding complex systems and leading people through change. From growing up in Detroit and studying engineering to running manufacturing operations, working in private equity, and leading M&A (mergers & acquisitions) and operations at Modaxo, Rod explains how curiosity, problem-solving, communication became recurring threads throughout his career.

Rod also offers a useful reminder for anyone still searching for their own X Factor: look for the things you naturally gravitate toward, the things other people consistently ask you for help with, and the abilities that may come so naturally that you don't even recognize them as strengths.

And your X Factor isn't necessarily static. As Rod explains, it can evolve as you do.

This is the first of two special Transit Unplugged podcast episodes featuring stories and lessons from Paul's new book, Find Your X Factor, alongside additional conversations coming to Transit Unplugged TV.

In this episode:

• How Noah Berger combined his careers in transit and the arts
• Why Merrimack Valley Transit used art, color, and design to change perceptions of public transportation
• Why doing the "grunt work" can be essential to eventually doing your best work
• How Rod Jones discovered a talent for understanding complex systems and leading people through change
• Why curiosity and problem-solving can transfer across industries
• How to recognize strengths you may be taking for granted
• Why your X Factor can change and evolve throughout your career

Find Your X Factor is available now. Paul will also be appearing at APTA EXPO (https://www.apta.com/event/apta-2026-transform-expo/)for book signings and special events.

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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 can transit agencies give riders more options while still strengthening the core network?

In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort returns to St. Pete/Clearwater for extended conversations originally filmed for Transit Unplugged TV, exploring how transit leaders across Pinellas County, FL are approaching everything from Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and microtransit to ferries, paratransit, and first- and last-mile connections.

Paul talks with Brad Miller, CEO of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), about an increasingly multimodal system and the investments shaping its future. He also meets Leon Smiley, PSTA’s most senior bus operator, who reflects on 35 years behind the wheel and the importance of helping people every day.

Darden Rice, Chief Planning and Community Affairs Officer, shares how the all-electric Spark service is connecting growing parts of St. Petersburg and discusses plans to expand waterborne transit across Tampa Bay. Paul also visits the future Clearwater Station, a new downtown hub designed to bring transit, trails, and the surrounding community together.

Then, Bonnie Sato, Director of Mobility Services, explains how services like Grouper and Snapper are filling gaps in the network—and how partnerships with Uber and Lyft have expanded first- and last-mile service and transformed the agency’s approach to paratransit.

Along the way, Whit Blanton of Forward Pinellas discusses the connection between transportation, land use, and regional planning, while Amanda Baird, Director of Communications and Marketing, explains how institutional partnerships are making transit easier to access for students, workers, and visitors.

These conversations were originally filmed for the Transit Unplugged TV St. Pete/Clearwater episode, which has become the series’ most-watched episode on YouTube with more than 1.6 million views.

Listen in for lessons on creating a more flexible, connected transit network—and meeting riders with the right mobility option for the trip they need to make.

In this episode:

- Brad Miller, CEO, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

- Leon Smiley, Bus Operator, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

- Darden Rice, Chief Planning and Community Affairs Officer, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

- Whit Blanton, Executive Director, Forward Pinellas

- Bonnie Sato, Director of Mobility Services, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

- Amanda Baird, Director of Communications and Marketing, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

00:00 Summer Specials Intro

00:26 Why Long Form Specials

00:43 Meet Brad Miller

01:45 Touring PSTA Headquarters

01:56 PSTA Overview Tour

02:31 Leon Smiley Spotlight

02:49 35 Years Behind the Wheel

03:08 Routes and Extra Board

03:34 Operator Family Culture

03:48 Favorite Buses and Builds

04:14 Driver Advice Wrap

04:37 Darden Rice Joins

04:52 Spark Electric Premium Line

05:31 How Transit Boards Lead

06:31 Next Up Tampa Bay Ferry

07:12 Podcast Network Break

07:45 Clearwater Station Construction

08:34 Designing a Multimodal Hub

09:13 MPO Role and Funding

10:35 Pinellas Trail Big Amenity

10:55 Grouper and Snapper On Demand

13:57 Uber Lyft Transit Partnership

14:59 Marketing with Amanda Baird

15:23 Spark Connections at Grand Central

15:50 UPASS Free Ride Program

16:46 Wrap Up and Credits

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

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.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

San Antonio is growing fast—and VIA Metropolitan Transit is growing right along with it.

For this special episode of Transit Unplugged, we’re going back to our Transit Unplugged TV visit to San Antonio and bringing you three extended, uncut conversations with the VIA leaders shaping the future of mobility in the city.

VIA President and CEO Jon Gary Herrera talks about what makes San Antonio unique, VIA’s role in connecting people to opportunity, and the rapid growth of VIA Link microtransit.

Then, Deputy CEO Tremell Brown takes Paul inside VIA’s operations and shares his remarkable journey from bus operator to the agency’s executive team. They talk about the people, facilities, safety operations, and nearly 500 buses that keep San Antonio moving every day.

Finally, Senior Vice President of Planning and Development Rod Sanchez looks ahead to VIA’s Green Line, a new bus rapid transit line designed around dedicated lanes, off-board payment, transit signal priority, and frequent service.

Pulled from our Transit Unplugged TV uncut episode, these conversations offer a closer look at how VIA is expanding service, embracing new mobility options, and preparing public transportation for the future of a fast-growing city.

In this episode:

• Jon Gary Herrera, President and CEO, VIA Metropolitan Transit

• Tremell Brown, Deputy CEO, VIA Metropolitan Transit

• Rod Sanchez, Senior Vice President of Planning and Development, VIA Metropolitan Transit

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:39 Why Full Interviews

00:55 San Antonio VIA Spotlight

01:11 Meet the Leaders

01:44 Inside San Antonio

02:30 What Makes It Unique

03:22 River Walk and Alamo

04:06 Why It's Called VIA

04:52 System Overview and Growth

05:56 How VIA Link Works

07:10 Downtown Zone for Visitors

07:53 San Antonio Growth Stats

09:02 Herrera Leadership Milestone

09:38 Military Town History

11:48 Wrap John Interview

12:05 Trammell Brown Onboard

12:43 From Operator to Deputy CEO

13:12 Bus Yard and Operations

14:25 Police and Paratransit

15:47 Podcast Break and Credits

16:20 Rod Sanchez Introduction

16:44 Historic Park Setting

17:18 Planning Role and Vision

18:30 Green Line BRT Features

19:19 Route and 2028 Timeline

20:25 Final Thoughts and Next City

21:19 Show Credits and Sponsor

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

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.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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, Frank joins Paul Comfort to discuss what it's really like to move from leading bus operations at one of the world's largest transit agencies to running an entire organization. He shares how Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) is building on a legacy of innovation while tackling today's biggest challenges—from the post-pandemic fiscal cliff to workforce development, transit-oriented development, and expanding mobility options beyond traditional bus service.

Frank also explains why the best solutions often come from the people closest to the work, and how his team balanced the budget while improving efficiency and protecting service.

In this episode, you'll learn:

- What changes when you move from senior operations leadership to the CEO role

- How CDTA addressed its budget challenges after COVID relief funding expired

- Why investing in employees is a top priority

- CDTA's approach to bus rapid transit, microtransit, bikeshare and electric carshare

- The agency's vision for transit-oriented development in New York's Capital Region

- Leadership lessons from following a long-serving, award-winning CEO

- Why empowering frontline teams leads to better organizational decisions

00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged

00:20 Introducing Frank Annicaro

01:52 CDTA Service Overview

03:34 Innovative Car Share Program

05:19 Bike Share Success

06:45 Agency Budget and Employees

07:29 Frank's Career Journey

08:52 Board Governance Structure

09:44 Transitioning from MTA

11:06 Leadership Challenges and Growth

13:50 Following a Legacy

17:04 What's Next for CDTA

19:09 Facing Budget Deficits

20:40 The Fiscal Cliff

22:13 Team-Based Problem Solving

23:58 Lightning Round Begins

24:42 Music and Concerts

25:56 Transit Leaders and TOD

26:38 Personal Passions and Advice

28:03 Closing Thoughts

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Production Assistant: Desmond Gates

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.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

https://youtu.be/M1PeM6D1ciw

The future of passenger rail is being built right now—and Transit Unplugged takes you inside one of the industry's biggest events to see it firsthand.

Recorded on location at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Rail Conference in Baltimore, this special video episode features exclusive conversations with the leaders driving some of North America's most ambitious rail projects. From the Purple Line in Maryland and MARC Train's growing commuter network to Honolulu's fully automated Skyline system and California High-Speed Rail, this is a front-row seat to the ideas, investments, and innovations shaping the next generation of public transportation.

Along the way, host Paul Comfort also takes viewers behind the scenes of the conference itself, exploring networking events, industry receptions, Baltimore's light rail system in action, and the conversations that are defining the future of mobility.

Guests include:

- Paul Skoutelas, President & CEO, American Public Transportation Association (APTA)

- Ray Biggs, Senior Project Director, Maryland Transit Administration's Purple Line

- Joshua Wolf, Administrator, Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) Train

- Michael Dylan Pal, Director of Public Transit, Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority

- Mike Degenaars, General Manager, Rail, Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority

- J. Roger Morton, Director, Honolulu Department of Transportation Services

- Neil Shah, Executive Vice President, Keolis North America

In this episode:

- Why passenger rail investment continues to grow across North America

- The latest progress on Maryland's Purple Line

- MARC Train's expansion plans and record weekend ridership

- Honolulu's driverless Skyline metro and what's next

- California High-Speed Rail's newest operating partnership

- Rail's role in economic development, sustainability, and regional mobility

- Behind-the-scenes access to one of the transit industry's premier conferences

Whether you're a transit executive, planner, policymaker, or simply passionate about mobility, this special episode offers an inside look at where rail is headed next.

Credits

Host and Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer: Chris O’Keeffe

Editor: Patrick Emile

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Camera: Cyndi Raskin

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo, passionate about moving the world’s people.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.

https://youtu.be/ZDsPkG_ruQc

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) General Manager Scott Sauer joins Paul Comfort to discuss leading one of North America's most complex transit agencies through a period of transformation. After beginning his career as a trolley operator at just 19 years old, Sauer now oversees the nation's sixth-largest transit system as it modernizes aging infrastructure, grows ridership, prepares for major international events, and works toward becoming a best-in-class transit agency.

In this episode, you'll learn:

- How SEPTA is rebuilding ridership and customer confidence

- Why "Back to Basics" has become the agency's guiding philosophy

- The challenge of replacing 40- and 50-year-old rail vehicles

- How AI is beginning to improve transit maintenance and operations

- What it takes to move tens of thousands of fans during the FIFA World Cup and America's 250th anniversary celebrations

- Why Scott believes employee-driven strategic planning creates stronger organizations

- Lessons from nearly four decades of leadership inside SEPTA

Whether you're a transit executive, public sector leader, or simply interested in how major transportation systems evolve, this conversation offers practical insights into leadership, modernization, and delivering better service every day.

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.

For more information, visit: www.Transit Unplugged.com

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.