In this episode of METROspectives, METRO’s Executive EditorAlex Roman sits down with Colin Parent, Executive Director and General Counsel at Circulate San Diego, to discuss his recent report, “The Powerless Brokers,” and what it reveals about how decisions get made — and too often stalled — in public transit in California, as well as the rest of the US.

With a background spanning law, public policy, and advocacy,Parent brings a nuanced perspective on what it takes to make transit projects happen — and why accountability, mentorship, and leadership development are essential to the future of urban mobility.

Topics include:

· The genesis of ‘The Powerless Brokers’ and howhis report came about.

· Systemic issues with permitting despite votersupport for public transit.

· Possible changes that could help speed theprocess and eliminate current issues.

· How these issues apply to other regions, as wellas Federal funding.

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When Doug Wright stepped in as President of Forest River Bus & Van in March 2025, his goal was clear — take a strong company and make it even stronger. In this conversation, METRO Executive Editor Alex Roman talks with Wright about Forest River’s journey so far, what’s driving its successtoday, and his vision for the future.

Topics include:

· COVID’s Impact on the company and industry.

· Transporting the most vulnerable members ofsociety.

· Controlling customer service.

· Issues facing bus manufacturing now.

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Julie Chalmers was recently named one of METRO’s 2025 Women in Transportation. Recently, Executive Editor Alex Roman had a chance to talk to Chalmers, GM at Hotard Coaches Inc. in New Orleans, about being a leader in a historically male-dominated industry, providing mentorship to other women, career milestones, and much more.

Topics include:

• Getting her start in the motorcoach industry.
• Hurdles faced as a woman in transportation.
• How Hotard has evolved over the years.
• Attracting women into the motorcoach industry.