Transit Unplugged

Does commuter rail still describe what the service is becoming in many cities? Across the industry, the traditional model of carrying workers downtown in the morning and home again in the evening is evolving. At Metra in Chicago, that change is showing up in a fascinating way: total ridership remains below 2019 levels, but CEO and Executive Director Jim Derwinski says Metra now serves more unique passengers than it did before the pandemic. People are still riding. They're just riding differently. This week on Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort takes the show aboard a Metra train in Chicago to explore another chapter in the continuing evolution of commuter rail—and what happens when a system built around the commute starts serving a much broader range of trips. Metra is responding by spreading service more evenly throughout the day, improving connections between lines and attracting more discretionary and weekend riders. Jim calls the strategy regional rail, part of a broader shift away from designing service almost entirely around traditional rush hours. But changing commuter rail in Chicago comes with some extraordinary operational challenges. Metra operates 11 lines and roughly 700 revenue trains a day at the center of the nation's rail network. Its trains interact with six Class I freight railroads and Amtrak, meaning more frequency and better connections also require navigating one of the most complicated rail environments in the country. Jim and Paul also look at the next chapter for the wider Chicago transit network through the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA). Metra, Chicago Transit Authority and Pace are moving toward greater regional coordination, with opportunities for integrated fares, fare capping, better multimodal connections and service that makes transferring between systems easier for passengers. Parts of Chicago's rail network still rely on air-powered switching technology dating to the 1930s. At the same time, Metra is preparing to test battery-powered trains and introduce a new generation of smart railcars—putting nearly a century of rail technology side by side on the same system. Jim also shares his own Metra story, from joining the agency as an electrician after serving in the Navy and working in freight rail to eventually becoming its CEO. In this episode: - Why the term "commuter rail" may no longer tell the whole story - How changing travel patterns are reshaping when and why people ride Metra - Why Metra has more unique passengers even as total trips remain below 2019 levels - What the shift toward regional rail looks like in practice - How Metra operates 700 daily trains in the center of America's freight rail network - Why frequency and better connections are critical to attracting new trips - How Metra, CTA and Pace could become a more integrated regional network 00:00 Welcome to Transit Unplugged 00:20 Meet Metra CEO Jim 01:19 Riding the Train Live 01:25 Metra Network Overview 01:52 Sharing Tracks With Freight 02:49 Chicago Rail Spiderweb 03:07 Class One Railroads Explained 03:21 Amtrak and Metra Yards 03:41 Metra Origins and Subsidies 04:02 Chicago Dispatching Challenges 04:50 A2 Tower Time Capsule 05:21 Union Station and Terminals 05:58 Ridership Today and Peaks 06:17 Post Pandemic Rider Shift 06:37 Regional Rail Scheduling 08:08 How Far Metra Reaches 08:40 Transit Unplugged Promo Break 09:13 NITA and System Integration 09:50 Universal Fares and Capping 10:21 Farebox Recovery and Funding 11:35 Building Hubs and Frequency 13:05 Commuter Rail Coalition View 15:07 Jim Derwinski Career Story 15:53 Future Expansion and New Tech 17:08 Battery Trains and Smart Cars 18:45 PTC and Operations Changes 19:38 Old Towers to Remote Control 20:27 NITA Timeline and Next Steps 22:13 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 and Thumbnail Photo: 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.

What if the work you're meant to do isn't something you find—but something you build? In Part II of Transit Unplugged's special Find Your X Factor series, Paul Comfort talks with two transportation leaders whose very different careers reveal how our experiences, abilities, and passions can eventually come together into something bigger. Mike Heidkamp spent his career working his way through nearly every level of public transportation. As a teenager on his own after losing his mother, the 41B bus in Pittsburgh was his lifeline to a job. Years later, he would go from auto mechanic to bus operator, instructor, manager, and ultimately Chief Transportation Officer at what is now Pittsburgh Regional Transit. Mike talks with Paul about realizing that being good at something isn't necessarily the same as finding your purpose—and how his own experiences taught him to build a career around serving people. His leadership philosophy is just as simple: never forget where you came from. Mike explains why frontline employees and passengers remained at the center of his thinking even as he moved into senior leadership, and why gaining a bigger voice also means gaining a responsibility to use it for others. Then, Rudy Salo shares a very different path to finding his X Factor. A municipal bond lawyer with lifelong interests in creativity and public transportation, Rudy realized there were important parts of himself that his day job wasn't exercising. Improv, acting, stand-up comedy, writing and podcasting helped him rediscover that creative side—and eventually helped reshape his professional career. When the transportation work Rudy wanted wasn't coming to him, he didn't quit his job. He started creating opportunities outside of it. Through writing, speaking, podcasting and becoming part of the transportation community, he built a reputation around something he genuinely cared about. Eventually, his passion and his profession began to intersect. Together, the conversations offer two paths toward the same idea: your X Factor can emerge from the experiences that shaped you, but you can also take an active role in creating the opportunities that bring it to life. In this episode: - How public transportation became a lifeline—and eventually a calling—for Mike Heidkamp - Why great leaders never forget what it's like on the front line - The difference between being good at something and finding meaningful work - Why Rudy Salo considers creativity essential to both his happiness and professional success - How interests outside your day job can create new career opportunities - Why you don't necessarily have to quit your job to pursue the work you really want - How to recognize the intersection between your interests, abilities, and purpose 00:00 Welcome and X Factor Series 00:55 Meet Mike and Rudy 02:33 Mike Saved by Transit 03:35 41B Bus Lifeline 05:50 Mechanic to Purpose 07:03 Operator Years Serving Riders 08:12 Never Forget Frontline 10:12 Management Calling and Union 11:31 Leading with Voice 18:09 Rudy Creativity Awakens 26:20 Punk Rock Lifeline 27:08 Scene and Belonging 27:57 Politics Through Lyrics 28:42 Finding Municipal Finance 30:51 Library Moment Click 32:48 Creativity in Bond Law 35:12 Beyond One Box 35:58 Transit Roots and Hustle 39:03 Side Projects Create Luck 45:56 Final Takeaways and Wrap 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.

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.

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.

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.