In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort interviews Ryan Murphy, the Chair of the City Council's Transportation Committee in Brisbane, while riding one of Brisbane’s famous CityCat ferries to talk about the vibrant and evolving transit system in this river city.
Episode Highlights:
And don’t forget to catch Ryan, the city of Brisbane, and all the projects he talked about in the latest episode of Transit Unplugged TV on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M04d9d-xpzk
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00:00 Introduction to Ryan Murphy and Brisbane's Transport
00:38 Exploring Brisbane's Ferry System
05:14 Brisbane's Bus Network and BRT System
07:38 Personal Message from Paul...
08:17 Brisbane Metro: The Future of Public Transport
12:12 Rail Developments and the 2032 Olympics
15:06 Ryan Murphy's Background and Vision
16:21 Australia's Public Transport Priorities
17:59 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com
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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.
This is a special episode of Transit Unplugged from our sister podcast, Mobility Redefined. Learn more about this great new show on their website: https://mobilityredefined.com/. Below are the original show notes for the episode:
In this episode of Mobility Redefined, host Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz speaks with Juan Carlos Muñoz, Chile’s Minister of Transport and Telecommunications, about the nation’s journey to sustainable mobility. They discuss Chile’s ambitious 2050 carbon neutrality goal, the electrification of Santiago’s world-leading bus fleet, and efforts to expand these innovations nationwide.
Minister Muñoz shares insights on integrating sustainable urban planning with initiatives like “15-minute cities” and highlights the transformative impact of electric buses on accessibility, user experience, and emissions reduction. The conversation also explores strategies for tackling fare evasion, the importance of governance in transport systems, and the role of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in creating efficient, flexible networks.
Chile’s global leadership in transport innovation offers valuable lessons for cities worldwide, from decarbonisation to inclusive urban design.
Episode Highlights:
• Chile’s Carbon Neutrality Goal: Minister Muñoz discusses Chile’s pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and the transport sector’s pivotal role.
• Electrification Success Story: Santiago boasts the largest electric bus fleet outside China, with plans for nationwide expansion.
• Buses as a Catalyst for Change: Electric buses improve service quality, reduce operational costs, and elevate user experience with features like air conditioning, USB ports, and Wi-Fi.
• Governance and Regulation: Insights into how effective policies ensure reliable and affordable transport, addressing funding challenges and fostering innovation.
• Tackling Fare Evasion: Multifaceted strategies, from turnstiles to digital payment options, are helping reduce fare evasion rates in Santiago.
• Urban Sustainability Vision: Beyond electrification, Minister Muñoz emphasises the importance of shorter trips, integrated systems, and 15-minute cities for a sustainable future.
• The Role of BRT Systems: Reflections on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as a flexible and cost-effective solution complementing metro networks.
Key Takeaways:
• Transforming public transport not only improves urban mobility but also contributes to better health, safety, and equity.
• Strong governance, stakeholder collaboration, and citizen engagement are essential for sustainable mobility initiatives.
• Chile offers valuable lessons for global cities striving to enhance their public transport systems.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mobility Redefined
00:25 Meet Minister Juan Carlos Muñoz
01:23 Chile’s Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
06:55 Challenges and Innovations in Public Transport
13:46 The Role of Governance and Funding
22:19 The Future of BRT Systems
27:29 Tackling Fare Evasion in Santiago
Connect with Us:
Website: https://mobilityredefined.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mobility-redefined/
Mobility Redefined is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com
Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz
Producer: Mike Cartmel
Executive Producer: Darren Turpin
Special thanks to:
Brand design: Tina Olagundoye
Digital Media: Belén Iturrioz Campo
Marketing content and Mobility Redefined newsletter: Mike Cartmel
If you have a question or comment, email us at mike.cartmel@modaxo.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 special episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort and co-host Kelly Chapman highlight the inspiring stories of four remarkable women leaders in Australian public transport. This is the third of five episodes coming from Paul’s recent 10-day tour of Australia. Don’t forget to also check out Transit Unplugged TV on YouTube for the TV episodes as well.
First, we hear from Lauren Streifer, Executive Director of the Public Transport Association of Australia and New Zealand (PTAANZ). Lauren's infectious energy and passion for public transport shine through as she discusses her ambitious goals for the industry, including her efforts to promote sustainability.
Next, Jamie-Lee Owen, Chair of PTAANZ's Emerging Mobility Leaders, shares her dedication to championing young professionals in the industry, emphasizing the importance of diversity and mentorship in shaping the future of public transport.
Katie Cooper, CEO of Metro Tasmania, brings a wealth of experience from her background in aviation to her current role, where she is leading innovative zero-emission bus trials. Katie's commitment to integrating her aviation expertise into public transport operations is truly inspiring.
Finally, Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations at Yarra Trams, discusses her new role and her lifelong passion for trams. Michelle, who was recently awarded the Women in STEM award for mentoring, continues to advocate for female representation in the industry, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels.
Tune in to hear these powerful stories and learn about the incredible work being done to promote women in public transport in Australia.
Coming up next week we have the final episode from Australian with a special tie-in to the current episode of Transit Unplugged TV from Brisbane. Brisbane City Councillor Ryan Murphy tells Paul all about Brisbane’s ferry system, light rail, and how his role as Chair of the Transportation Committee helps promote and support transit throughout the city.
00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode
01:03 Highlighting Women Leaders in Australian Transport
06:15 Lauren Streifer CEO, PTAANZ
07:20 Jamie-Lee Owen, Chair, PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leaders
10:31 Katie Cooper CEO, Metro Tasmania
14:35 Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations, Yarra Trams
36:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
38:19 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com
Special thanks to:
If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook
Sign up for 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 2016, Brad Miller, CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA), had an idea. What if subsidized rides with Transportation Networking Companies (TNCs) like Uber and Lyft could help people in his community get where they needed to go. What if you could get a subsidized Uber ride at the end of your overnight shift when regular transit isn’t running and be able to get home safely? This revolution in public transit and was seen as a model for transit innovation and quickly spread across the country. The next logical question was then: could we do the same for paratransit and offer better service to those riders and even at a lower cost?
The answer was yes. And now across the U.S., paratransit riders can book a ride at the last minute—just like non-disabled people can—to get where they need to go. But all that could come crashing to a halt if proposed changes to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) rules about using TNCs in public transit come into effect. This episode features Brad and other experts talking about how TNCs have helped the disabled community and what the impact on people’s lives will be if transit agencies have to stop using Uber and Lyft for paratransit and other on-demand rides.
Featured Guests:
• Brad Miller: CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) in Florida. Brad shares his pioneering work in integrating TNCs into paratransit services, highlighting the significant benefits and cost savings achieved. He also discusses the looming threat posed by new Federal regulations that could disrupt these services.
• Dr. Judy Shanley: National Director of Transportation, Mobility, and Youth at the National Office of Easterseals. Judy brings her extensive experience in advocating for individuals with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of innovative paratransit solutions. She voices concerns about how the proposed regulations could limit transportation options for people with disabilities.
• Alex Elegudin: CEO of Wheeling Forward and former Accessibility Chief at the New York City MTA. Alex provides a legal and advocacy perspective, detailing his efforts to improve accessibility in transportation. He discusses his recent Newsweek article that highlights the challenges and potential setbacks of the proposed regulatory changes.
• Jen Shepherd: Head of Uber's Global Transit Business. Jen explains Uber's role in supporting transit agencies and the potential consequences of the new regulations on Uber's ability to provide paratransit services. She underscores the safety measures Uber has in place and the broader implications for mobility if these services are curtailed.
Link to the proposed rule changes on the U.S. Federal Register: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FTA-2024-0020
Coming up next week, we have the fourth of five episodes Paul recorded while visiting Australia. This week we feature just a few of the amazing women leading public transit in Australia and joining Paul, special co-host Kelly Chapman.
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:25 Meet the Panelists
03:11 Brad Miller's Innovative Approach
06:08 Challenges and Threats to Paratransit Services
07:07 Judy Shanley on Easterseals' Role
09:29 Alex Elegudin's Perspective
20:12 Jen Shepherd on Uber's Involvement
30:52 Conclusion and Call to Action
32:12 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com
Special thanks to:
If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook
Sign up for 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 week’s episode, host Paul Comfort sits down with Steve Butcher, Executive General Manager of Rail and Transport for John Holland. Paul and Steve caught up at the AusRail conference in Brisbane while Paul was on his 10-day tour of Australia. Steve shares his extensive career journey, starting at British Rail at age 16 all the way up to his current job at John Holland and dives into managing Yarra Trams, the Gold Coast Railway, and the Sydney Metro.
"Transforming lives through railways is what drives me every day." - Steve Butcher
Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged we have a special panel on Transportation Networking Companies (TNCs) and public transit with Dr. Judy L. Shanley, Ph.D. National Director, Transportation, Mobility, & Youth Transition at Easterseals; Alex Elegudin, CEO of Wheeling Forward; Jen Shepherd General Manager of Uber Transit; and Brad Miller CEO of Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority.
00:00 Introduction to Steve Butcher
00:26 Steve Butcher's Career Journey
00:53 John Holland Group's Major Projects
01:56 Gold Coast Light Railway and Yarra Trams
04:38 Sydney Metro and Tunnel Boring
07:26 Yarra Trams Joint Venture
11:57 Post-Pandemic Rail Trends
14:43 Australia's Investment in Public Transport
17:30 Steve Butcher's Personal Background
20:03 Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com
Special thanks to:
If you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - Facebook
Sign up for 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.