Transit Unplugged

In this exclusive edition of Transit Unplugged Insider, host Paul Comfort sits down with executive producer Julie Gates to unpack the biggest developments across the public transportation world—things you won’t hear anywhere else.

Inside this episode:

• What the federal shutdown really means for transit funding—and which programs are frozen 
• Why some agencies are pulling back from electric buses
• How safety is taking a front seat and what the current Administration is using to measure it
• The rise of AI, cybersecurity, and automation inside transit ops
• What we’re hearing about operator shortages, microtransit expansion, and system redesigns
• And what’s next for Transit Unplugged TV, Parking Live, and the brand-new Aviation Report 

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer — Chris O'Keeffe

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

📩 Got 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 Inc., 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 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 APTA TRANSform Conference in Boston

In this special live edition of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort moderates an inspiring CEO Roundtable with five industry leaders shaping the future of mobility. Recorded on-site at APTA TRANSform 2025 in Boston, the conversation dives into the real-world challenges and opportunities facing transit systems today—and the leadership vision driving change.

Joining Paul are:

Ben Limmer (Connecticut DOT)

Kenneth McDonald (Long Beach Transit and APTA CEO of the Year)

Jessica Mefford-Miller (Valley Metro)

Ben Stupka (RTA of Southeast Michigan), and Amanda Wanke (DART – Des Moines).

Together, they explore key themes:

The biggest transformations their agencies have experienced in the past two years

• How leaders pivot under pressure and lead through uncertainty

• Innovation in action—new projects and technologies transforming service

• A day in the life of a modern transit CEO

• Their vision for the next decade of mobility

This uplifting roundtable is packed with practical insights, real-world leadership lessons, and inspiration for everyone working to move people—and communities—forward.

This week on Transit Unplugged:

We head to Singapore, where public transit covers every inch of the island—and carries an astonishing 7.5 million riders daily.

Host Paul Comfort sits down with Winston Toh, Managing Director of Tower Transit Singapore, one of four operators under the Land Transport Authority (LTA). With 800 buses across 60 routes, Tower Transit is at the center of a system designed with precision—and powered by centralized planning.

Winston shares:

• Why bus ridership (3.8M daily) surpasses rail (3.4M) in Singapore 
• How LTA ensures full national coverage and low fares (as little as $0.69 for seniors) 
• Why “every inch of the land is covered” with integrated bus and rail systems 
• The role of AI-enabled safety tools, including fatigue detection and driver incentive programs 
• How Tower Transit fosters a people-first culture, with 80% staff engagement and Singapore Best Employer status 
• The company’s goal to become “the Singapore Airlines of the bus industry” 

Whether you’re an operator, planner, or policymaker, this episode offers a blueprint for equitable, efficient, and tech-forward mobility.

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer — Chris O'Keeffe

Edited and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe + Patrick Emile

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Got 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 Inc., 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 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—and fast. In this Super September episode, host Paul Comfort sits down with Jon Gary Herrera, the newly appointed President and CEO of VIA Metropolitan Transit, to talk about how one of America’s fastest-growing cities is reimagining transit.

From expanding regional collaboration to centering equity in system planning, Jon Gary brings a thoughtful and bold vision to VIA’s next chapter. He shares what he’s learned from nearly two decades in public service—including his time at LA Metro, Capitol Hill, and the private sector—and why he believes public transit is essential for prosperity, climate, and quality of life.

Topics include:

• What brought Jon Gary to San Antonio—and why the time was right
• The opportunity (and pressure) of leading a transit system in a fast-growing city
• Why transit investments must reflect the lived experience of the people who use them
• The power of community accountability—and how it shapes service delivery
• VIA’s strategy for becoming a mobility ecosystem that works for all

“We're in a moment where we need to be courageous about the future.” — Jon Gary Herrera

Whether you're a transit professional, city planner, or civic leader, this episode offers key insights into building resilient, future-focused mobility systems that meet the needs of diverse, growing communities.

Credits

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

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer — Chris O'Keeffe

Edited and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe + Patrick Emile

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Got 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 Inc., 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 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.

LIVE from the American Public Transportation Association's TRANSform conference, host Paul Comfort moderates a live panel on one of the most mission-critical—but often overlooked—parts of the transit ecosystem: paratransit.

Presented in partnership with UZURV – The Adaptive Transportation Network Company (TNC), this candid and high-energy conversation features leaders from across the country who are redefining what’s possible when innovation meets accessibility.

Guests:

• Mark Aesch, CEO, TransPro Consulting 
• Eileen Collins Turvey, Director of Paratransit, TriMet (Portland, OR)
• Kevin Hernandez, Chief Operating Officer, GRTC (Richmond, VA) 
• Ned Freeman, CEO, UZURV 

Together, they discuss:

• Why paratransit isn’t just an “unfunded mandate”—it’s a cornerstone of transit’s value to the community
• How performance-based models and TNC partnerships are helping agencies cut costs and boost rider satisfaction 
• New data showing paratransit users are the most satisfied transit customers in America 
• What success looks like when we prioritize dignity, flexibility, and equity 

  "Do you know who the most happy transit customers in America are? Paratransit customers. They're happier than fixed route bus or BRT or Rail.” – Mark Aesch

“The ADA is the floor, not the ceiling. It's minimum compliance. And if that's what you're seeking, I'm not gonna tell you how to run your program.” – Eileen Collins Turvey

“ It's time to be innovative. We can't continue doing the same things we've been doing for 70 years." – Kevin Hernandez

Whether you're running a transit system, shaping policy, or simply believe in building cities that work for everyone—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Credits

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

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Recorded, Produced and Mixed by — Chris O’Keeffe

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Sound Design — Patrick Emile

Got 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 Inc., 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 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 Super September episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort heads to Chicago to sit down with Nora Leerhsen, Acting President of the Chicago Transit Authority—America’s second-largest public transit system.

With more than 11,000 employees, a million daily riders, and an expanding footprint, the CTA plays a massive role in the life of the Windy City—and Nora is at the helm during a pivotal time. A lawyer and former educator who rose through the ranks from compliance officer to chief of staff and now acting president, Nora shares her deep belief in transit's power to uplift cities and people alike.

They discuss:

• How CTA is hitting post-pandemic ridership highs during special events like Lollapalooza 
• The launch of the Frequent Network, boosting service on 20 core bus routes 
• Nora’s unique path to leadership—and why a legal background helps navigate complexity
• CTA's all-hands approach to safety, from targeted police missions to new rider engagement programs 
• The long-awaited Red Line Extension, bringing rail access to underserved South Side communities 
• How partnerships with Metra, Pace, and RTA are shaping a more unified regional system

And yes—there’s even a nod to Ferris Bueller and the iconic rumble of the L.

“Transit is unmatched in the impact it can have on a city and on its trajectory,” says Nora. Tune in for a candid, energizing conversation about the past, present, and future of Chicago’s transit backbone.

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

• Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort 
• Executive Producer — Julie Gates 
• Producer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’Keefe 
• Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin 

Special thanks to:

• Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye 
• Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova 

Got a question or comment? Email us at [email protected]

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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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.

We’re kicking off Super September with a heavy-hitter: Demetrius Crichlow, President of New York City Transit.

In this powerful episode, Crichlow sits down with Paul Comfort to reflect on his 20+ year rise through the MTA—from climbing signal poles at Long Island Rail Road to overseeing the nation’s largest transit system.

Crichlow doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges. He opens up about leading through a crisis of public trust, tackling rising crime, modernizing aging infrastructure, and navigating tough conversations about race, fairness, and opportunity inside large institutions.

Highlights include:

• How fare evasion was reduced by 27%
• Why putting people first means choosing talent over tenure
• What CBTC (communications-based train control) means for NYC
• The hidden complexity of drainage, substations, and keeping a 24/7 system running
• Why congestion pricing is more than just a revenue stream
• A bold leadership approach built on respect, experience, and strategic change

Whether you’re leading a small system or managing a megacity’s transit infrastructure, this episode offers insights that will stay with you.

Podcast Credits

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

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’Keefe

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Podcast Intern — Desmond Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Got 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 Inc., 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 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.

We’re getting the band back together.

In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul catches up with longtime contributors Mike Bismeyer (a.k.a. the King of Kindness) and Elea Carey, marketing strategist and founder of Transit Happy. These two familiar voices helped shape the podcast during the pandemic—and now they’re shaping the industry.

Mike shares how kindness has become a key leadership trait, and how mentorship continues to change his career and others'. Elea gets into what works—and doesn’t—with marketing in 2025, and how social media and AI are shifting the landscape for transit agencies.

Together, the group dives deep on:

• Using kindness as a competitive advantage
• Building sustainable, people-first transit culture
• The real risks and rewards of AI in marketing
• Why relationships—not tech—are the future of our industry

This one’s personal, practical, and packed with ideas you’ll want to steal for your own agency.

Reach out to them here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleacarey/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kindnessiscoolbythebiz/

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

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’Keefe

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Podcast Intern — Desmond Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Got a question or comment? Email us at [email protected]

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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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

On the Road in New Orleans: SWTA Summer Conference Spotlight

In this special conference edition of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort is on location at the SWTA Summer University Conference in New Orleans, where he dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing small and mid-sized transit systems across the Southwest.

Main Interview:

Perri D’Armond – Director, Fort Bend Transit (Fort Bend County, TX)

Perri shares how one of America’s fastest-growing and most diverse counties is reimagining transit service. She discusses:

Fort Bend's explosive growth from 350,000 to nearly 900,000 residents since 2000

The success of their new downtown Houston commuter service, even post-COVID

A real-world use of transit for seniors and ADA riders — including the memorable line: "I don’t care if I’m taking you to play bingo…"

How local context shapes flexible service models, from park-and-ride to rural demand response

Her career path from ag education to economic development to transit leadership

Special Guests:

Rich Sampson – Executive Director, Southwest Transit Association (SWTA)

Rich gives us a front-row seat to the key challenges and trends for transit in the SWTA region, including:

Calls to raise federal match ratios for smaller systems

Changing ridership patterns in post-pandemic suburban networks

What makes SWTA’s events stand out — and what’s next for the organization

Dinero’ Washington – CEO, SporTran & Chair, LPTA (Louisiana Public Transportation Association)

Dinero’ outlines Louisiana’s big transit wins:

A new $23M admin center and multimodal hub in Shreveport

Statewide investment in ferry programs, CNG, and BRT

The importance of unified support from DOTD and agencies alike

This episode captures the energy of transit leaders on the ground, collaborating across state lines and service types to deliver real solutions — with community impact front and center.

Subscribe & Stay Connected

Like what you heard? Subscribe to Transit Unplugged on your favorite podcast platform, or sign up for the newsletter at TransitUnplugged.com

for weekly updates from the field.

Podcast Credits

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo

Creator, Host, + Producer: Paul Comfort

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Producer + Newsletter Editor: Chris O’Keeffe

Associate Producer: Cyndi Raskin

Podcast Intern: Desmond Gates

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Got a question or comment? Email us at: [email protected]

Subscribe to the newsletter:

transitunplugged.com/subscribe-to-the-transit-unplugged-newsletter

On the heels of his February appointment, Metro-North Railroad President Justin Vonashek sits down with Paul Comfort to break down a banner year for the MTA’s northern commuter powerhouse. From 98 percent on-time performance to new “Super-Express” trains that shave up to 50 minutes a day off the New Haven run, Justin walks through the big wins, bigger capital program, and the three metrics he believes define rail’s future in North America: reliability, frequency, and trip time.

• The 98% standard — how Metro-North elevated on-time performance across 230k daily trips
• Super-Express strategy — six AM/PM trains, revamped signaling, and a 90-minute New Haven–GCT target
• Grand Central Terminal as a “temple to transit”
• Their nearly $8 billion capital plan (2025-29) — dual-mode Siemens Chargers, battery-electric locos, signal renewals, ADA station upgrades, and the Grand Central artery
• Penn Station Access for Bronx riders and reverse-commute opportunities into Connecticut
•  

• Metro-North Railroad — https://new.mta.info/agency/metro-north-railroad
• MTA Capital Program 2025-2029 overview https://future.mta.info/capitalplan/
• Transit Unplugged episode archive — https://transitunplugged.com

Like what you hear? Subscribe to Transit Unplugged on your favorite podcast app, or sign up for the newsletter at TransitUnplugged.com for weekly field notes from across the industry.

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

Creator, Host & Producer — Paul Comfort

Executive Producer — Julie Gates

Producer & Newsletter Editor — Chris O’Keefe

Associate Producer — Cyndi Raskin

Podcast Intern — Desmond Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand Design — Tina Olagundoye

Social Media — Tatyana Mechkarova

Got a question or comment? Email us at [email protected]

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. This production belongs to Modaxo and may contain information 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