A Lesson in Leadership Transition

Every trip consists of beginnings and endings, and the same is true of transit leadership. Every part of the ride matters, from onboarding to how you walk away. This week we travel through every stage of leadership: the start of a new role, the expansion of programs, and a masterclass in leadership handoffs. Enjoy the ride.

PREMIER: John Sisson and Lilia Montoya

In this special on-location episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort visits Delaware Transit Corporation (DART First State) to explore a rare example of intentional succession in action. Outgoing CEO John Sisson and incoming CEO Lilia Montoya discuss why succession planning matters, how organizations can preserve institutional knowledge while embracing fresh ideas, and why leadership isn’t only about how you serve—it’s also about how you leave.

ICYMI: Remember The Alamo

Join Paul Comfort on an inside tour of the Alamo with Ernesto Rodriguez, III — the curator and historian who has been telling the stories of the Alamo since 1999. Artifacts from the 13-day siege of 1836 bring the stories of legendary defenders to life like never before. Get up close with a legendary Bowie knife collection, a John Wayne movie poster, and hear about Phil Collins’ unexpected connection. Come see why Texans still say, “Remember the Alamo.” 

ICYMI: Steven Feist

Paul Comfort sits down with Steven Feist, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Coordinated Transportation Solutions (CTS), to explore the world of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) and its growing role in healthcare access. Steven explains how transportation brokers connect Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries with the rides they need to reach appointments, treatments, pharmacies, and other critical services.