Transit Unplugged

Hosted by Paul Comfort, SVP Modaxo

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Aug 2026

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About the show

We share the stories, challenges, and successes of the top transit professionals from around the world. Learn how top transit leaders got to where they are with stories and insights from their careers. Get the inside story about public transit and transit trends from the people who run it. Transit Unplugged is hosted and produced by Paul Comfort and brought to you by Modaxo Learn more at https://transitunplugged.com/

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September 9, 202626 min

How Pace Is Reinventing Suburban Transit in Chicago

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.

September 2, 202641 min

How Great Leaders Find Their X Factor with Noah Berger and Rod Jones

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.

August 26, 202618 min

What Can St. Pete/Clearwater Teach Us About More Flexible, Connected Transit?

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.

August 12, 202622 min

How VIA Is Growing Ridership by Growing Service

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.

July 29, 202630 min

What Changes When You Become the CEO? Lessons from CDTA’s Frank Annicaro

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.

July 15, 202636 min

Rail Renaissance: The Projects Transforming Public Transportation

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.

July 1, 202639 min

How Do You Reinvent a Transit Agency? Inside SEPTA’s New Playbook

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.

June 24, 202623 min

Lessons from an Intentional Transit CEO Succession

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dv39AxBZFMY Leadership transitions are inevitable, but successful ones are far from guaranteed. In this special on-location episode of Transit Unplugged , Paul Comfort visits Delaware Transit Corporation (DART First State) to explore a rare example of intentional succession in action. Outgoing CEO John Sisson reflects on a 32-year career and the legacy he leaves after more than a decade leading one of America's most unique statewide transit systems. Joining him is incoming CEO Lilia Montoya, who arrives from California for her first CEO role and benefits from something few leaders receive: a month of overlap with the person she's succeeding. Together, they discuss why succession planning matters, how organizations can preserve institutional knowledge while embracing fresh ideas, and why leadership isn't only about how you serve—it's also about how you leave. For outgoing leaders, this episode offers lessons in stewardship, trust, and preparing the next generation. For incoming leaders, it provides insight into building relationships, honoring a legacy, and establishing a vision for the future. Along the way, Paul explores Delaware's integrated statewide transit model, seasonal beach service, paratransit and microtransit innovations, and the close collaboration between DART First State and DelDOT that makes the agency one of the most distinctive in North America. In this episode: Why intentional succession is part of leadership John Sisson's reflections on a 32-year transit career Lilia Montoya's journey to her first CEO role The value of leadership overlap and knowledge transfer Balancing continuity with new ideas Lessons for both incoming and outgoing executives Delaware's statewide approach to transit Beach service, paratransit, and microtransit innovations How DelDOT and DART First State work together to deliver mobility Why leadership legacies are measured not only by what leaders build, but by what they leave behind 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.

June 17, 202627 min

Is Transportation Healthcare?

https://youtu.be/32WxfrlanJw Access to healthcare doesn't start at the doctor's office—it starts with transportation. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Steven Feist, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Coordinated Transportation Solutions (CTS), to explore the world of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) and its growing role in healthcare access. Steven explains how transportation brokers connect Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries with the rides they need to reach appointments, treatments, pharmacies, and other critical services. The conversation examines how NEMT has evolved over the past two decades, from paper manifests and phone-based eligibility checks to sophisticated platforms powered by GPS tracking, mobile apps, APIs, and virtual agents. Steven also shares how CTS partners with transit agencies such as SEPTA and coordinates with ADA paratransit providers to create more efficient, cost-effective transportation networks. Paul and Steven discuss: What NEMT is and why it matters The relationship between healthcare access and transportation How transportation brokers coordinate rides across multiple modes Partnerships between NEMT providers and public transit agencies The role of ADA paratransit in medical transportation Technology's impact on trip scheduling, eligibility, and customer service Economies of scale in statewide and regional transportation programs The future of autonomous vehicles and telehealth in NEMT Why breaking down transportation silos is essential for better health outcomes Whether you work in transit, healthcare, mobility management, or public policy, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most important—and often overlooked—segments of the transportation industry. 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.

June 10, 202642 min

Former FTA Chief Marc Molinaro on the Future of Federal Transit Funding

https://youtu.be/4nmn0hLJHbQ Former Federal Transit Administration Administrator Marc Molinaro joins Paul Comfort for an in-depth conversation about federal transit policy, funding, and the future of public transportation. Drawing on his experience as both a member of Congress and the leader of the FTA, Molinaro offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the agency operates, what transit agencies should understand about federal grants, and why building consensus in Washington is often more complicated than it appears. The discussion explores the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee's recently approved surface transportation reauthorization proposal, evolving federal priorities around safety, security, accessibility, and project delivery, and the growing role of bus rapid transit in connecting urban, suburban, and rural communities. Whether you're a transit executive, policymaker, or industry observer, this episode provides valuable insight into how federal decisions shape local transit systems across North America. In This Episode What the FTA actually does day-to-day How federal transit grants are evaluated and managed Lessons learned from leading the FTA The future of surface transportation reauthorization Safety, security, and accessibility priorities Bus Rapid Transit vs. Light Rail investment trends Why transit legislation advances through "evolution, not revolution" What transit leaders often misunderstand about Washington 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.