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Leading Transit on Three Continents: Graeme Legh on Growth, Innovation, and Kelsian’s Future
Apr 30 2025 • 27 mins
In this episode of Transit Unplugged Podcast, Paul Comfort talks with Graeme Legh, the new CEO of Kelsian Group, one of the world’s leading transit and mobility operators. From ferries off the coast of Australia to motorcoach operations across the U.S., Graeme shares how Kelsian is tackling growth, innovation, and sustainability across three continents.
They discuss:
Lessons from leading major transit companies around the worldHow Kelsian balances local brands with global strategyInnovations like electric fleets and multimodal operationsWhy public-private partnerships could define the next era of mobilityGraeme’s leadership mindset—and why simple, great service always wins
Whether you're an executive, operator, or just curious about how global transit is evolving, this conversation delivers powerful insights.
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo. Host & Producer: Paul Comfort Podcast Manager & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe Executive Producer: Julie GatesSpecial thanks to: Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye Social Media: Tatyana MechkarovaGot a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com Subscribe to the Transit Unplugged Newsletter: transitunplugged.com/subscribe-to-the-transit-unplugged-newsletterDisclaimer: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.
From Operator to Officer: Dwight Ferrell on Leading SMART Transit Across Southeast Michigan
Apr 23 2025 • 26 mins
From driving a bus in Dallas to leading one of the largest transit systems in the Midwest, Dwight Ferrell’s story is the blueprint for leadership rooted in experience. In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort rides along with Dwight, General Manager of the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART), for a candid look at how he’s transforming transit across Southeast Michigan.
With Modaxo Portfolio Leader Rod Jones on board, this episode covers:
How Dwight’s career from bus operator to CEO informs his leadership styleThe explosive growth of SMART’s Flex microtransit serviceBuilding a people-first culture through engagement (and literal gold stars)Strategic planning, smarter mobility, and the challenge of doing more with lessAnd yes: a deep dive into Detroit-style pizza that gets a 6-star review
This episode is a companion to an upcoming Transit Unplugged TV episode featuring Detroit and its transit systems—premiering June 2025.
CreditsTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo
Host & Producer: Paul Comfort
Podcast Manager & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe
Executive Producer: Julie Gates
Special thanks to:
Brand Design: Tina Olagundoye
Social Media: Tatyana Mechkarova
Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com
Subscribe to the Transit Unplugged Newsletter:
transitunplugged.com/subscribe-to-the-transit-unplugged-newsletter
DisclaimerThe 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.
Moving the Masses: M.J. Maynard on the Power of Las Vegas Transit’s One-of-a-Kind Agency Model
Apr 16 2025 • 31 mins
This week on Transit Unplugged, Paul visits Las Vegas to talk with M.J. Maynard, CEO of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC). From managing traffic for massive events like the Las Vegas Marathon and Formula 1, to running one of the busiest bus-only transit systems in the U.S., M.J. gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what makes RTC truly unique.
Unlike most transit agencies, RTC operates as a centralized hub for mobility—housing the region’s public transit provider, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), traffic management, roadway funding agency, and even bike share operations all under one roof. That structure gives the team unmatched agility when responding to evolving transportation needs, especially in a region that’s booming with mega-events and economic growth.
Paul and M.J. ride the Deuce on the Strip, visit RTC’s award-winning Mobility Training Center, and explore how this consolidated model creates real-time solutions for residents and tourists alike. With a focus on equity, connectivity, and serving both locals and tourists, M.J. shows how Las Vegas moves the masses—and why other regions are taking notes.
Transit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo
https://www.modaxo.com
Host & Producer: Paul Comfort
Podcast Editor & Newsletter Guy: Chris O'Keeffe
Executive Producer: Julie Gates
Special thanks to:
Tina Olagundoye – Brand Design
Tatyana Mechkarova – Social Media
Got a question or comment? Email us at info@transitunplugged.com
Subscribe to the Transit Unplugged Newsletter:
https://transitunplugged.com/subscribe-to-the-transit-unplugged-newsletter/
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.
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