The Cities Moving Transit Forward (and the Episode Everyone’s Watching)
This week on Transit Unplugged, we’re going global and local. From the UK’s Tower Transit to the small city with a big transit transformation—St. Cloud, Minnesota—we’re spotlighting how bold leadership shapes better service. Plus, our Detroit TV episode is racking up views and inspiring audiences far and wide. And don’t miss Julie Gates in the News Minute, covering everything from NYC’s traffic improvements to a tasty Brightline expansion in Miami.
This Week on the Podcast
Samuel Ribeiro, Managing Director of Tower Transit UK (part of Kelsian Group), shares how managing public transport systems across four continents gives his team an edge in delivering safe, reliable, and efficient service in the UK. From competitive tendering to global best practices, Samuel offers a rare window into what public systems in the U.S. might learn from contracted models abroad.
ICYMI: America’s Most Livable City?
What happens when a mayor and a transit CEO work together for over a decade? In St. Cloud, Minnesota, it helped earn the city “Most Livable in the World” status. Hear from former mayor Dave Kleis and CEO Ryan Daniel on green hydrogen, growth, and what makes a great executive hire.
Also ICYMI: Detroit’s Renaissance
We explore Detroit’s comeback through the lens of its transit transformation—riding the QLINE, hopping the People Mover, and tasting the city’s famous pizza, all while meeting the leaders powering progress.
Curious about the latest headlines in the transit industry? Check out our Transit Unplugged News Minute with Julie Gates. She covers the biggest stories in the industry every week. Click to view, and subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. This week:
- NYC traffic delays down significantly
- Brightline Trains opens food hall in Miami
- Honolulu honors transit employees with 50 years of service



