Explore every episode of the podcast Stop Requested

We’re bringing back an important conversation in this re-run episode of Stop Requested. Christian and Levi address the pressing issue of assaults on transit workers, highlighting alarming trends that show a rise in incidents over the past 15 years. They discuss the lasting effects on bus operators from PTSD to workforce shortages and examine the societal factors driving these challenges. The episode explores strategies like operator barriers, panic alarms, and public awareness campaigns, along with new federal directives aimed at improving safety. Join us as we reflect on how agencies, unions, and communities can work together to protect the people who keep public transit running.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian recap the Texas Transit Association Conference, Expo, and Rodeo held in McAllen, Texas. Christian shares firsthand insights on the event’s highlights, from industry-leading sessions and vendor showcases to the competitive energy of the roadeo. They also discuss the role of APC certification in 2025, the power of networking at transit conferences, and a surprising fact about McAllen that might just put it on your travel list. Tune in for a full breakdown of one of the year’s most engaging state transit conferences!

In this special replay episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian revisit an essential conversation about Automatic Passenger Counting (APC) technology and its impact on public transit agencies. With the 2025 APC recertification deadline set by the FTA fast approaching, they break down why agencies need to act now and the operational benefits of certification. They also highlight ETA Transit’s innovative tool, Tally, designed to streamline APC data collection, saving agencies time, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance with NTD reporting requirements. If you missed this episode the first time, now’s the perfect time to catch up!

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing public transit, bringing smarter service, safer rides, and a better passenger experience. In this episode of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono explore how AI is streamlining operations—from predictive maintenance and real-time scheduling to intelligent chatbots and fare enforcement. Discover how agencies are using AI to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and rethink the future of mobility.

In this episode of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono explore the unique experience of the Transit Bus Summit, an event that goes beyond traditional transit conferences by fostering direct, meaningful connections between agencies and vendors. Christian shares key takeaways from this year’s summit, including discussions on integration challenges, open data standards, and the growing demand for infotainment and hardware reliability. Hear firsthand how this tailored approach to networking and knowledge-sharing is shaping the future of transit technology—and why it’s a must-attend event for industry professionals.

In this episode of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono welcome Juan Portillo, Public Works Manager Transit at the City of Manteca, to share his inspiring journey and reveal the human side of public transportation. Discover how on‑time performance, innovative route planning, and genuine community engagement transform transit from a mere service into a lifeline that connects seniors, youth, and families while paving the way for a brighter future. Tune in for a fresh perspective on building a transit system that truly serves its community.

Levi and Christian unpack the complexities behind on-time performance, exploring why being early can be worse than being late, how operators juggle impossible schedules, and the hidden challenges agencies face in defining and maintaining punctuality. They break down how this simple-sounding stat can be surprisingly complicated—and why it matters to both riders and agencies.

Ridership numbers often dominate transit discussions, but should they be the ultimate measure of success? Levi and Christian unpack the pros and cons, exploring how accessibility, service quality, and community impact factor in. Is a packed bus always a sign of a great system, or is there more to consider? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on what truly makes public transit effective.

In this special episode of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono welcome their first-ever guest, Yash Nagal, Director of Transit Planning at Palm Tran. Together, they dive into the nationwide surge in transit ridership, explore innovative strategies like Palm Tran's Buslink program, and discuss how frequency and integration can transform public transportation. Yash shares key insights on tailoring services to community needs, the role of land use in transit success, and why storytelling is essential for the future of public transit. Tune in to hear expert advice, inspiring examples, and actionable takeaways for agencies everywhere.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum explore the global landscape of battery electric bus adoption. From Shenzhen's fully electrified fleet to the ambitious goals in Latin America and Europe, they examine the challenges, successes, and trends shaping zero-emission transit worldwide. Tune in as they discuss the impact of policies like Buy America, the role of global manufacturers, and the environmental implications of electric vehicle batteries. Don't miss this insightful continuation of their series on zero-emission vehicles!

What does it take to electrify a transit fleet? In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono explain the challenges and benefits of zero-emission buses. Learn about the key technologies — from battery-electric to hydrogen fuel cells — and why transit agencies are racing to secure funding and develop Zero Emission Transition Plans. They also cover practical tips for agencies looking to start the shift, including infrastructure planning, working with power providers, and understanding the true costs of going electric.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum kick off 2025 by reflecting on the top 10 transit stories of 2024, as highlighted by Mass Transit magazine. From Penn Station’s capacity challenges to tackling wildcatting in San Diego, they explore major milestones, key trends, and what these stories mean for the future of public transportation. Plus, they give shoutouts to 2024’s 40 Under 40 honorees, celebrating the rising stars shaping the industry.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian Londono and Levi McCollum explore how transit agencies are turning swag into powerful tools for branding, engagement, and creating community pride. They discuss the value of collectible transit merchandise, share their favorite swag stories, and uncover how these items build deeper connections with riders and fans alike.

In this festive episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian explore the delightful tradition of transit buses taking center stage in holiday parades and celebrations. From historical roots in London and New York City to the behind-the-scenes efforts of transit agencies, they discuss how these rolling holiday displays strengthen community ties and promote public transit. They also share insights on planning holiday services, detours, and the logistical challenges of decorating and staffing these events. Celebrate the season with us and discover how transit agencies nationwide are spreading holiday cheer!

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi tackle the urgent issue of assaults on transit workers, exploring alarming statistics that reveal a troubling rise in incidents over the past 15 years. They discuss the profound impact on bus operators, from PTSD to workforce shortages, and examine the societal factors contributing to these challenges. The conversation highlights strategies such as operator barriers, panic alarms, and public awareness campaigns, alongside new federal directives aimed at reducing assaults and improving safety culture. Join the discussion on how agencies, unions, and communities can work together to safeguard the backbone of public transit.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi focus on the issue of transit insecurity, examining how unreliable transportation impacts individuals and communities. Inspired by a recent Mass Transit Magazine article and national studies, they discuss challenges like poverty, access to opportunities, and the trade-offs between ridership and coverage. The conversation highlights innovative solutions such as on-demand systems, improved frequency, and increased public transit investment to create more equitable and accessible transportation networks. Join the discussion on how transit shapes lives and communities.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi tackle the critical issue of CDL driver shortages in the transit industry. They explore the challenges agencies face, including workforce gaps exacerbated by macroeconomic conditions, and discuss innovative strategies such as in-house CDL training, vocational partnerships, and creative recruitment campaigns. With insights on the importance of treating bus operations as a career, competitive pay, and addressing safety concerns, they emphasize how a multifaceted approach can help agencies build a sustainable pipeline of transit operators. Join the conversation to learn how transit agencies can navigate these challenges and strengthen their workforce.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi discuss the complexities of providing transit services during the holiday season. They explore the challenges agencies face, such as fluctuating ridership, detours, and staffing constraints, as well as the critical role of technology like CAD/AVL systems and GTFS real-time feeds in ensuring smooth operations. Drawing on personal experiences and industry insights, they share strategies for tailoring service levels, piloting new offerings, and effectively communicating with riders. Tune in to discover how transit agencies can balance community needs with operational demands to deliver seamless holiday service.

In this heartfelt episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi reflect on the life and legacy of Clinton B. Forbes, marking one year since his passing. They share personal memories of working with Clinton, recalling his charisma, dedication to customer service, and transformative leadership in public transit. From his ambitious projects like the Route Performance Maximization plan to his commitment to community service through United Way, Clinton’s impact was profound. Join them in honoring his contributions to transit and the invaluable lessons he imparted to those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Christian shares insights from the APTA Transform conference in Anaheim, giving Levi a peek into the highlights and energy of the event. From packed expo halls to exclusive sessions on customer experience, Christian recounts key moments, including ETA Transit's sponsorship of a session featuring top transit leaders and a conversation on prioritizing the customer experience at every level. Tune in as they explore the value of networking, the unique perspectives gained on the vendor and agency sides, and the experiences that make conferences essential in the transit industry.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian explore the dynamic world of transit technology and what sets innovative public transit agencies apart. They discuss key factors such as budget, risk, and system integration that influence whether agencies become early adopters of cutting-edge solutions. The episode also covers various technological advancements, from Automated Fare Collection to Fleet Management Systems, and the challenges agencies face in balancing innovation with practical constraints. Join the hosts as they kick off a conversation on the future of transit.

In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi and Christian dive deep into the significance of Automatic Passenger Counting (APC) technology for public transit agencies. They explore the crucial 2025 APC recertification deadline set by the FTA, outlining why agencies need to prepare now and the operational advantages of APC certification. The hosts also introduce ETA Transit's latest innovation, Tally, a powerful tool designed to simplify the APC data collection process, saving agencies time and resources while ensuring compliance with NTD reporting requirements.

In the premier episode of Stop Requested, Christian and Levi reflect on their experience at the Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) conference, held from September 22-24 in West Palm Beach. They explore the value of networking with industry professionals, discovering the latest transit innovations, and celebrating outstanding achievements through industry awards. Listen in as they share key takeaways from conversations with vendors, including discussions on cybersecurity for transit agencies, and the importance of connecting with peers to drive the future of public transportation.

In this trailer for Stop Requested, co-hosts Christian Londono and Levi McCollum introduce their new podcast, where they dive into the latest trends, technologies, and stories shaping public transit. As Senior Customer Success Manager and Product Manager at ETA Transit, Christian and Levi bring expert insights and industry perspectives to help listeners understand how transit innovations are creating more efficient and user-friendly systems. Tune in every Monday for a fresh take on the future of public transportation!