Can One Factory Change the Future of Rail in America?
As we hit the home stretch of the year, the pace of the industry hasn’t eased one bit. Our team is gearing up for some well-earned time off, but transit keeps moving—and so do we. From rail innovations to cross-country filming days, to the unmistakable energy of systems big and small, the stories we’re capturing right now feel like a glimpse of where 2026 is headed.
And even as calendars fill with travel plans, family time, and a little rest, you can still expect new episodes all through the holidays. Whether you tune in on a commute, a layover, or a quiet morning at home, we’re excited to keep sharing the conversations and places that remind us how connected this industry really is.
This Week on The Podcast
Paul Comfort sits down with Martin Ritter, CEO of Stadler U.S., one of the most innovative and fastest-growing train manufacturers in North America. From a modest foothold in the early 2000s to a nearly 600,000 sq. ft. factory in Utah, Stadler is reshaping how America thinks about rolling stock — and redefining what’s possible in U.S.-based manufacturing.
COMING SOON: Italia!
Embark on an unforgettable journey across Italy when Transit Unplugged TV host Paul Comfort takes you from the bustling streets of Milan to the historic wonders of Turin, the Renaissance beauty of Florence, and the iconic sights of Rome. Along the way, discover how public transportation connects you to Italy’s best food, culture, and entertainment.
ICYMI: Nancy Purser
Paul Comfort sits down with Nancy Purser, Acting Director of the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). After 15 years with the agency, Nancy now leads one of Ontario’s most historic and ambitious transit systems — one that’s preparing for transformative growth.
Nancy shares how HSR is executing HSR Next: Moving Hamilton Forward, a seven-year network redesign that will expand service by 50%, add new routes and on-demand zones, and better connect residents — especially those in equity-deserving and suburban communities — to jobs, education, and opportunity.
The News Minute
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:
- Federal Transit Administration (FTA) update: The agency removed a provision requiring grant recipients to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement — a rule deemed unlawful.
- Houston METRO scores $100M to expand its cleaner CNG bus fleet.
- #RosaParksDay: VIA Metropolitan Transit offers fare-free service and turns on headlights across its fleet to honour her legacy.
- BC Transit’s “Stuff the Bus” returns — collecting toys, food, and clothing for families in need.
