In this episode of Transit Unplugged Podcast, Paul Comfort talks with Graeme Legh, the new CEO of Kelsian Group, one of the world’s leading transit and mobility operators. From ferries off the coast of Australia to motorcoach operations across the U.S., Graeme shares how Kelsian is tackling growth, innovation, and sustainability across three continents.

They discuss:

• Lessons from leading major transit companies around the world
• How Kelsian balances local brands with global strategy
• Innovations like electric fleets and multimodal operations
• Why public-private partnerships could define the next era of mobility
• Graeme’s leadership mindset—and why simple, great service always wins

Whether you're an executive, operator, or just curious about how global transit is evolving, this conversation delivers powerful insights.

From driving a bus in Dallas to leading one of the largest transit systems in the Midwest, Dwight Ferrell’s story is the blueprint for leadership rooted in experience. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort rides along with Dwight, General Manager of the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART), for a candid look at how he’s transforming transit across Southeast Michigan.

With Modaxo Portfolio Leader Rod Jones on board, this episode covers:

• How Dwight’s career from bus operator to CEO informs his leadership style
• The explosive growth of SMART’s Flex microtransit service
• Building a people-first culture through engagement (and literal gold stars)
• Strategic planning, smarter mobility, and the challenge of doing more with less
• And yes: a deep dive into Detroit-style pizza that gets a 6-star review

This episode is a companion to an upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episode featuring Detroit and its transit systems—premiering June 2025.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo

Host & Producer: Paul Comfort

Podcast Manager & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com

Subscribe to the Transit Unplugged Newsletter:

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

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.

This week on Transit Unplugged, Paul visits Las Vegas to talk with M.J. Maynard, CEO of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC). From managing traffic for massive events like the Las Vegas Marathon and Formula 1, to running one of the busiest bus-only transit systems in the U.S., M.J. gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what makes RTC truly unique.

Unlike most transit agencies, RTC operates as a centralized hub for mobility—housing the region’s public transit provider, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), traffic management, roadway funding agency, and even bike share operations all under one roof. That structure gives the team unmatched agility when responding to evolving transportation needs, especially in a region that’s booming with mega-events and economic growth.

Paul and M.J. ride the Deuce on the Strip, visit RTC’s award-winning Mobility Training Center, and explore how this consolidated model creates real-time solutions for residents and tourists alike. With a focus on equity, connectivity, and serving both locals and tourists, M.J. shows how Las Vegas moves the masses—and why other regions are taking notes.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo

https://www.modaxo.com

Host & Producer: Paul Comfort

Podcast Editor & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Tina Olagundoye – Brand Design

Tatyana Mechkarova – Social Media

Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com

Subscribe to the Transit Unplugged Newsletter:

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

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 of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with John Rossant, founder and CEO of CoMotion, to explore what’s next for cities, transit, and technology. From preparing for mega-events like the World Cup to pioneering hydrogen-powered aviation, John shares how CoMotion is helping shape the future of urban mobility—with a pasta recipe thrown in for good measure.

They discuss:

• The evolving role of public-private partnerships in transit
• Why CoMotion Miami feels more like a tech summit than a transit conference
• How cities can creatively finance sustainable mobility as federal funds tighten
• And the global push toward hydrogen-powered transport—from Monaco to Miami

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:19 CoMotion: A Hub for Future Mobility

03:31 Comfort Food Cookbook and Personal Stories

05:19 Upcoming CoMotion Miami Conference

05:50 New Realities and Opportunities in Mobility

08:18 Public and Private Sector Collaboration

15:16 Mega Events and Transit Solutions

22:49 Hydrogen as the Future of Sustainable Mobility

28:32 Conclusion and Event Details

Want to experience the future of mobility firsthand?

Learn more and get your tickets to CoMotion Miami at: comotionmiami.com

Don’t miss this insightful conversation at the intersection of innovation, policy, and pasta.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo

Host & Producer: Paul Comfort

Podcast Editor & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com

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This week on Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort hosts a special episode recorded live at the 2025 Texas Transit Association Conference in McAllen, Texas.

In this roundtable, Paul speaks with five accomplished Texas transit leaders about the realities of running transit systems across Texas—from expansive rural regions to fast-growing cities. They share how they’re serving students, seniors, tourists, and workers alike—while facing challenges like extreme heat, limited funding, and changing rider expectations.

Featured Panelists:

• Serena Stevenson – General Manager, Waco Transit System; Chair, Texas Transit Association
• Mario Delgado – Transit and Downtown Services Director, Metro McAllen
• Derrick Majchszak – CEO, Corpus Christi RTA
• Vince Huerta – Director of Transportation, ETCOG GoBus
• Allen Hunter – Executive Director, Texas Transit Association

Highlights from the discussion:

• “10,000 square miles of service” – Vince Huerta shares how GoBus operates across 14 rural counties and how they’re building in-house maintenance capacity to improve service reliability.
• “From the islands to the military base” – Derrick Majchszak explains how Corpus Christi RTA connects barrier island workers, students, and military personnel across a sprawling service area.
• “We’re the bridge between urban and rural” – Serena Stevenson talks about integrating Waco’s fixed routes, microtransit, and university service to close first/last mile gaps.
• “We don’t feel like a small town” – Mariel Delgado details how Metro McAllen serves a growing cross-border population, offers university service to UTRGV (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley), and is planning for BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) and TOD (Transit-Oriented Development).
• “Invest in transit today for the system you want tomorrow” – The panel emphasizes the need for proactive funding, community partnerships, and creative solutions to meet Texas’ evolving mobility needs.

From bus stop design to funding advocacy, and from CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) fueling strategies to regional job access, this episode dives into what it takes to deliver safe, reliable, and rider-focused transit—Texas style.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

Host: Paul Comfort

Producer: Paul Comfort

Editor: Chris O'Keeffe

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand design: Tina Olagundoye

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Marketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Cyndi Raskin

If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.

Follow us on social...

Join Paul Comfort on this episode of Transit Unplugged for an insightful conversation with Professor Niels van Oort, Associate Professor of Public Transport and Shared Mobility at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and co-director of the Smart Public Transport Lab. Paul and Niels explore critical considerations in transit planning, including the effectiveness of light rail versus bus rapid transit (BRT), integration with cycling and micro-mobility, and global best practices for creating high-quality transit systems.

Niels shares details about his innovative transportation planning game designed to help students and professionals balance various mobility modes and societal goals. He also discusses the benefits, challenges, and appropriate contexts for implementing light rail and BRT systems, emphasizing the importance of seamless integration with active transport modes like cycling.

• Course—Planning Public Transport Services: https://ppts-course.org/
• Serious game ‘Finding the optimal mix’: https://deoptimalemix.nl/en/
• Light Rail Transit Systems; 61 Lessons in Sustainable Urban Development: https://shop.elsevier.com/books/light-rail-transit-systems/der-bijl/978-0-12-814784-9
• Better buses: BRT and other bus modes: https://www.ovmagazine.nl/boeken/betere-bus
• Weblog public transport research output: https://nielsvanoort.weblog.tudelft.nl/
• Smart Public Transport Lab: www.SmartPTLab.TUDelft.nl
• You can read more about Dr. Oort’s work here: https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ceg/about-faculty/departments/transport-planning/staff/personal-pages/oort-n-van

Additionally, communication experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott from TALLsmall Productions (https://tallsmallproductions.org/) provide practical guidance on mentorship, highlighting strategies for effective mentor-mentee relationships, open communication, and meaningful feedback.

Highlights:

• Insights into the comparative advantages of Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Bus Rapid...

In this special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort welcomes Dr. Kaan Yildizgöz, host of Mobility Redefined, the new sister podcast of Transit Unplugged. Dr. Yildizögz, a leading global expert in public transportation and former senior director at UITP, shares his personal journey into transportation, driven by childhood memories in his father's bus workshop, and his academic expertise in ride-hailing and mobility.

Paul and Kaan dive into global mobility trends, exploring key issues such as decarbonization of bus fleets, resilience in transit governance and funding, digitalization, and workforce challenges across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Discover how transportation leaders worldwide tackle these universal challenges with innovative solutions and best practices.

Also in this episode, communication experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott offer practical strategies for navigating change management, emphasizing the power of active listening and consistent messaging to guide teams effectively through transitions.

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

Host: Paul Comfort

Producer: Paul Comfort

Producer: Chris O'Keeffe

Media Support: Cyndi Raskin

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special Thanks To

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin

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.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at Tucson, Arizona’s SunTran transit system with General Manager Mikel Oglesby. Host Paul Comfort and Mikel explore the city’s transit modes, budget, and future projects, including the innovative Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) plans. Discover Mikel's unique journey in public transit, from his childhood riding buses with his father to becoming a leader in the industry. The episode also features insightful discussions on alternative fuel technologies, fare-free systems, and the nuances of managing a large transit agency. Plus, get tips on career resilience and effective communication from experts Rebecca Klein and Keith Scott. Don’t miss this enriching episode filmed on location during the Southwest Transit Association Conference 2025. Listen now!

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:02:00 - Exploring Tucson's Transit System

00:04:00 - Fare-Free Transit and Future Plans

00:08:00 - Innovative Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project

00:14:00 - Career Resilience and Communication Tips

00:19:00 - Introduction to Mikel Oglesby

00:20:00 - Mikel's Early Career in Transit

00:23:00 - Achievements at Sunline Transit Agency

00:25:00 - Transition to TriRail and Detroit

00:29:00 - Current Role and Future Plans in Tucson

00:31:00 - Impact of FTA Changes and Industry Predictions

00:33:00 - Southwest Transit Association Conference

Credits:

Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

Host: Paul Comfort

Producer: Paul Comfort

Writer: Cyndi Raskin

Executive Producer: Julie Gates

Special thanks to:

Brand design: Tina Olagundoye

Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova

Transit Unplugged Newsletter & Media Support: Cyndi Raskin

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.