Do you know how many Americans will travel this week?

Eighty-two million. That’s how many Americans hit the road, rails, skies, ferries, and bus stations this week — proof that movement is still the heartbeat of the holidays. Transit isn’t just infrastructure right now; it’s how families reconnect, how cities breathe, and how communities stay in motion. Wherever you’re headed (or happily staying put), here’s to everyone working behind the scenes to keep the world moving.

This Week on The Podcast

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.

TUTV Uncut: More Connecticut

Experience more of Connecticut with the Uncut show companion to Transit Unplugged TV—featuring extended interviews and conversations that didn’t make the final episode. Hear additional insights from transit leaders, local icons, and music legends from Styx and REO Speedwagon. This companion offers extra stories and perspectives for fans who want to go beyond the broadcast.

ICYMI: Maureen Cosyn Heath

Paul Comfort sits down with Maureen Cosyn Heath, Director of Transit for the City of Mississauga and the leader of MiWay, the third-largest municipal transit agency in Ontario.

Learn about her journey supporting 775,000 residents with 500 buses, over 1,700 employees, and how she’s preparing for major system updates.

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:

Amtrak just shattered records — over 34 million trips this year, with ridership and revenue at all-time highs.
U.S. Department of Transportation is handing out $10,000 to nearly 800 air traffic controllers for perfect attendance during the government shutdown.
Thanksgiving travel is exploding — AAA expects 82 million Americans on the move, and Reuters reports bus + train bookings are up 12% from last year.
Train lovers, rejoice — Black Friday is rolling out huge deals from the Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail Canada across Canada’s most iconic routes.

Watch Now!