Stop Requested

ETA

Stop Requested is a podcast hosted by Christian Londono and Levi McCollum, where they explore all things transit—from public transportation trends and innovations to the daily experiences of riders and transit professionals. Join them for insightful discussions, industry interviews, and a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and successes shaping the future of mobility. Whether you're a transit enthusiast, professional, or curious commuter, Stop Requested is your stop for all things transit!

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22 episodes
weekly
Avg 50 min
English

Episodes 22

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Monday · 57 min
Why It Costs So Much to Build Rail Transit in the USA with Dr. Eric Goldwyn
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Eric Goldwyn, professor at NYU and director of the Transportation and Land Use program at NYU Marron. Eric shares what the Transit Costs Project has learned by comparing nearly a thousand transit infrastructure projects around the world. The conversation explores why U.S. projects cost more and take longer to build, what cities lose when those costs climb, and how decisions around station design, construction methods, permitting, and project management affect the final price. Eric also discusses why transit agencies need stronger internal expertise, more visibility into costs, and a clearer understanding of the tradeoffs behind major capital projects.
August 18 · 54 min
Balancing the Art and Science of Transit Planning with Brian McCollom
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Brian McCollom, a transit management consultant with more than 50 years of experience in planning, operations, performance management, and the National Transit Database. Brian shares why good transit planning requires more than technical skill, combining data and standards with judgment, observation, and a clear understanding of the market a service is meant to serve. The conversation explores how planners can make better use of limited resources, what performance audits reveal beyond the headline metrics, and why getting out into the field still matters. Brian also discusses service costing, fare policy, NTD reporting, and the value of learning from operators, maintenance teams, riders, and peers across the industry.
August 10 · 59 min
What It Takes to Lead a Transit Agency with Frank White III
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Frank White III, former CEO of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority and founder and managing partner of Praxis Advisors Group. Frank reflects on leading KCATA through workforce shortages, funding pressures, regional coordination, and the return of fares after years of fare-free service. The conversation explores why transit leaders have to get the basics right before pursuing bigger ambitions, how data and transparency can help navigate difficult decisions, and why transit agencies should have a seat at the table in economic development and regional planning. Frank also discusses the realities of the transit CEO role, KCATA’s work in transit-oriented development, and how he is applying those lessons through Praxis Advisors Group.
August 4 · 48 min
Using AI to Plan Better Transit Service with Anthony Trasatti
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Anthony Trasatti, co-founder and CEO of Ontra Mobility. Anthony shares how his work in operations research and the MARTA Reach pilot led to building an AI-powered platform for transit planning. The conversation explores how agencies can test thousands of network scenarios, uncover unmet demand, and weigh tradeoffs between ridership, coverage, cost, and equity. Anthony also discusses where AI can support planners, why operational constraints still require human judgment, and how better modeling can turn long-range ideas into practical service changes.
July 27 · 45 min
Turning Community Feedback Into Better Transit with Shofi Ull Azum
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Shofi Ull Azum, Chief Planning and Development Officer at Cherriots in Salem, Oregon. Shofi shares how the agency uses community feedback, rider data, and operational experience to shape service decisions. The conversation explores Cherriots’ ridership growth, 90 percent on-time performance, and plans for microtransit, bike share, and new transit centers. Shofi also discusses why public engagement should not end with a survey, how planning and operations work together, and the importance of showing communities how their input influenced the final plan.
July 20 · 44 min
Making Transit Technology Work for People with Kristin Taylor
In this episode of Stop Requested, I sit down with Kristin Taylor, Senior Director of UX at MBTA and Chief Experience Officer for Transit Ops. We explore the importance of designing transit technology around the full rider journey rather than just focusing on tools. Kristin emphasizes that trip planning is a process that requires accurate data and effective communication across all channels to ensure a smooth experience for riders. We discuss the significance of shared ownership in transit technology, the connection between transit tech and civic tech, and the need for agencies to prioritize user-centric solutions. Join us as we delve into how these insights can transform public transportation for the better.
July 14 · 57 min
Broward’s Vision for Premium Mobility with Coree Cuff Lonergan
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO and General Manager of Broward County Transit. Coree shares how Broward is building on its bus network through TransitFORWARD 2040 and PREMO, the county’s long-term effort to create a more connected, multimodal transit system. The conversation explores Broward County’s plans for bus rapid transit, commuter rail, light rail, high-frequency bus service, and stronger connections between the airport, seaport, convention center, and surrounding communities. Coree also discusses community engagement, listening sessions, program delivery, eliminating transit deserts, and BCT’s role in supporting regional travel during the World Cup.
July 7 · 50 min
How Miami-Dade Keeps Evolving the Rider Experience with Doug Bermudez
In this episode of Stop Requested, I sit down with Doug Bermudez, Chief of the Easy Card Fare Programs and Customer Experience division at Miami-Dade County Transportation. As we wrap up our Miami-Dade series, Doug shares insights from his journey in public transit, emphasizing the importance of a seamless rider experience. We discuss how technological advancements, such as the Easy Card system, are set to enhance payment methods and accessibility. Doug highlights the upcoming challenges and preparations for events like the FIFA World Cup, focusing on improving customer interactions and communication strategies. Join us as we explore how Doug and his team are innovating transit solutions to meet the needs of Miami's diverse riding community.
June 30 · 49 min
Moving Austin Beyond the Commute with Dottie Watkins
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Dottie Watkins, President and CEO of CapMetro in Austin, Texas. Dottie began at CapMetro as a part-time bus operator more than three decades ago and now leads the agency through a period of service expansion and long-term investment. The conversation explores how changing travel patterns are reshaping Austin’s transit network, from more local and crosstown service to new Rapid bus routes. Dottie also discusses Transit Plan 2035, Project Connect, supporting frontline employees, and balancing today’s service with the work of building a stronger regional transit system for the future.
June 23 · 45 min
Universal Design and the Future of Paratransit with Jarice Rodriguez
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Jarice Rodriguez, Chief of Paratransit Operations and Services for Miami-Dade County. As part of the ongoing Miami-Dade series, Jarice shares how her team is rethinking accessibility across one of the nation’s largest ADA paratransit programs. The conversation explores universal design, accessible journeys, and why accessibility must extend beyond the vehicle to every part of a rider’s trip. Jarice also discusses Miami-Dade’s work to modernize paratransit through integrated technology, real-time information, and NaviLens wayfinding tools that can help riders navigate complex transit facilities more independently.
June 16 · 52 min
Turning Transit Performance Metrics into Action with Laura Moeini
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Laura Moeini, Senior Director of the Performance Analysis Unit in Subways at New York City MTA. Laura shares how her path through consulting, WMATA, and MTA shaped the way she thinks about performance management, data storytelling, and continuous improvement. The conversation explores how agencies can move beyond reporting numbers and use data to drive action. Laura also discusses building useful KPIs, designing dashboards people actually use, connecting metrics to frontline needs, and turning complex transit data into clearer decisions for operations, managers, and executives.
June 9 · 56 min
Matching Transit Service to Real Needs with Hunter Abel
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Hunter Abel, Project Manager and Transit Lead at Modern Mobility Partners. Hunter shares how his experience at LeeTran, MARTA, and now in consulting has shaped the way he approaches transit planning and project delivery. The conversation explores why plans often stall between planning and implementation, how agencies can define clearer goals, and why public input should focus on how people actually travel rather than which mode looks most appealing. Hunter also discusses data, tradeoffs, post-COVID service changes, and the value consultants can bring when agencies need additional capacity or a fresh perspective.
June 1 · 1 hr 1 min
Leading Rail Safety Through Collaboration with Jolene Molitoris
In this episode of Stop Requested, John Maglio, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Jolene Molitoris, former Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration and former Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation. As the first woman to lead the FRA, Jolene shares how her career grew from Ohio rail advocacy to national transportation leadership. The conversation explores rail safety, collaborative rulemaking, the creation of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee, and why lasting progress in transportation depends on teamwork across government, labor, industry, and the private sector.
May 26 · 35 min
Building Transit Technology and Trust with John Maglio (Replay)
In this replay episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with John Maglio, Founder and CEO of ETA Transit, about building transit technology and trust over the long term. John explains how disciplined growth, reliability, and focus shape effective CAD/AVL systems, and why trust is earned through follow-through rather than features. The conversation covers leadership and company culture, what separates vendors from true partners, how agencies can approach RFPs more clearly, and why long-term thinking leads to better outcomes for riders, agencies, and technology providers alike.
May 18 · 51 min
Turning Data and Field Work into Better Transit with Christy Wegener
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Christy Wegener, Executive Director of the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority, also known as LAVTA. Christy shares how she found her way into transit from social work and public policy, and how her career across multiple agencies shaped the way she thinks about planning, operations, customer service, and leadership. The conversation explores why planning and operations need to understand each other, how politics shapes service decisions, and why agencies need better market research before making major changes. Christy also discusses the tradeoffs behind service redesigns, the role of pilots, the impact of work-from-home patterns on Bay Area transit, and why field work remains one of the most important habits for transit leaders.
May 11 · 47 min
Designing for the Human Side of Transit with Mark Hughes
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Mark Hughes, founder and Principal Transit Experience Lead at Transit Experience Group and Chief Design Officer at Mark Hughes Creative. With a background in product design, digital experience, and customer experience, Mark brings a private sector design perspective into the transit industry. The conversation explores how riders experience transit through human interaction, why frontline employees shape trust in the system, and how training can better prepare operators for real world conditions. Mark also discusses wayfinding, communication during disruptions, rider confusion, and why customer experience is not separate from operations.
May 4 · 46 min
Turning Around the Culture at ABQ RIDE with Leslie Keener
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Leslie Keener, Transit Director at ABQ RIDE, wrapping up a four part series on transit in Albuquerque. Leslie leads a multimodal system that includes fixed route service, the ART BRT line, Sun Van paratransit, and ABQ RIDE Connect microtransit. The conversation explores Leslie’s path from freight rail into transit leadership and what it was like stepping into an agency facing missed service, staffing shortages, safety concerns, and internal silos. Leslie shares how ABQ RIDE focused on culture, frontline engagement, and team alignment to begin rebuilding the organization from the inside out. The episode also covers ABQ RIDE’s focus on safe, clean, and reliable service, the role of technology in modernizing the rider experience, and why people first leadership is central to lasting operational change.
April 27 · 42 min
How ABQ RIDE is Delivering Better Customer Experience with Robert Romero
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Robert Romero, Transit Manager at ABQ RIDE, as part of a four part series on transit in Albuquerque. Robert oversees Sun Van paratransit service and ABQ RIDE Connect, bringing a customer experience driven approach to operations. The conversation explores how ABQ RIDE transformed its call center from a reservations and complaints function into a reservations and education center, using feedback from riders to drive operational changes. Robert also shares how his background in the private sector shaped improvements in wait times, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement. The episode also covers the rollout of new technology, including RideCo, and how it improved on time performance, reduced complaints, and gave riders more visibility into their trips. Robert discusses the role of communication, community engagement, and taking calculated risks to deliver better service for riders who depend on it most.
April 20 · 46 min
Leading with Compassion at ABQ RIDE with Bobby Sisneros
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Bobby Sisneros, Deputy Director at ABQ RIDE, in the second of a four part series on transit in Albuquerque. Bobby oversees planning, IT, marketing, safety and security, and communications, bringing a cross departmental perspective to how transit systems operate day to day. The conversation explores how ABQ RIDE is rethinking safety, from applying the broken window theory to improve system conditions to building a transit safety officer program centered on compassion and de escalation. Bobby also shares how his experience across city departments shaped a more holistic approach to transit, focused not just on moving people, but supporting the broader community. The episode also covers operator retention, leadership visibility, and the importance of listening to both riders and frontline staff to improve service in a changing post COVID environment.
April 13 · 1 hr 1 min
Redesigning ABQ RIDE's Network from the Ground Up with Andrew De Garmo
In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Andrew De Garmo, Principal Planner at ABQ RIDE, as part of a four-part series on transit in Albuquerque. With over 20 years at one agency, Andrew shares how his role spans service planning, scheduling, and capital projects, and how those pieces come together to shape transit service on the street. The conversation explores Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART), including how the corridor was planned, the challenges of taking lanes from cars, and what it takes to operate and refine a full BRT system over time. Andrew also discusses the realities of implementation, from driver training to maintaining reliable service on a high frequency corridor. The episode also covers ABQ RIDE Forward, the agency’s system redesign focused on shifting from peak commuter service to more consistent, all day, seven day a week service. Andrew explains how COVID created a rare opportunity to rethink the network, breaking from long standing service patterns and allowing the agency to redesign service around current rider needs.

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