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For centuries, members of the B’doul Bedouin tribe lived in the caves around the ancient city of Petra, Jordan. Then, in the 1980s, the government forced the tribe to move in the name of preserving the geological site for tourists. But if the residents are forced to leave, and if their heritage has been permanently changed, then what exactly is being preserved? SHOW NOTES: Meet The Man Living in The Lost City Carved in Stone Jordan: Petra's tourism authority cracks down on Bedouin cave dwellers The tribes paying the brutal price of conservation “There is no future for Umm Sayhoun” Jordan’s Young Bedouins Are Documenting Their Traditions on TikTok Check out Sami's company Jordan Inspiration Tours Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices…
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Engaging Conversations | Inspiring Dialogue, Empowering Communities
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Welcome to Engaging Conversations, the podcast that connects you with the pulse of our local communities. Hosted by Leon Goltsman, Co-Founder of Ecolibrium Headquarters (EcoHQ), each episode invites you on an inspiring journey into the stories that shape and uplift our neighbourhoods. From visionary leaders and industry experts to everyday heroes making a difference, Engaging Conversations offers an exclusive look into our society’s diverse and dynamic fabric. This podcast is your gateway to ...
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Thinking Transportation: Engaging Conversations about Transportation Innovations
Texas A&M Transportation Institute
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Our ability to get from Point A to Point B is something lots of us take for granted. But transporting people and products across town or across the country every day is neither simple nor easy. Join us as we explore the challenges on Thinking Transportation, a podcast about how we get ourselves — and the things we need — from one place to another. Every other week, an expert from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute or other special guest will help us dig deep on a wide range of topics. Fi ...
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Welcome to Growth Interviews, the fun, stimulating and engaging series of conversations driven by digital business growth. Our mission is to provide insights and ideas from world-class professionals on the topic of growth and to cut through the noise of so-called marketing tips and tricks, revealing the money-making strategies behind e-commerce. Each episode is an intriguing challenge involving an insightful expert who reveals some of their best-kept secrets, which you can use right away to ...
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Dr. Nijay K. Gupta engages with the latest biblical scholars and scholarship.
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#25 - Service Above Self: A Legacy of Community Impact with Vincent De Luca OAM
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Send us a text Vincent De Luca OAM doesn't just talk about community service—he embodies it. From starting advocacy work at just nine years old to becoming one of Australia's youngest Order of Australia Medal recipients, his journey reveals what happens when someone refuses to look away from society's most challenging issues. Growing up under the g…
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It Takes a Village: In the Air or on the Ground, Safety Takes Teamwork
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Tracing its origins to the Air Commerce Act of 1926, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) was established in 1967 as an independent agency inside the U.S. DOT charged with investigating why transportation accidents happen. In 1974, it became an independent federal agency separate from the DOT. Although largely focused on aviation, the ag…
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#24 - Words That Wound: How Everyday Language Shapes Gender Respect with Rachael Natoli
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Send us a text What we say reveals who we are—especially when we think no one's listening. Rachael Natoli, founder of Lokahi Foundation, brings raw honesty and practical wisdom to our conversation about the language that shapes attitudes toward women and ultimately fuels violence. As a mother raising twin boys and leading a foundation supporting ab…
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#23 - How One Op Shop Gave Back $1 Million—and Changed Lives Forever with Theo Van Bezouwen
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Send us a text The Hillview Op Shop demonstrates how a social enterprise can harness community spirit to create a remarkable impact by transforming donated goods into life-changing community initiatives. Manager Theo Van Bezouwen shares the inspiring evolution of what locals affectionately call "the David Jones of op shops" — a 2,000-square-metre o…
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#22 - Beyond The Paycheck: How Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative Transforms Lives
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Send us a text When someone finds meaningful employment, they gain more than a paycheck—they discover dignity, purpose, and the ability to contribute to their community. This transformative journey sits at the heart of Hunter Adults Financial Collaborative (HAFC), where Cherylin Beever and her team help refugees and disadvantaged individuals overco…
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Our 100th Episode! Celebrating 75 Years of the TTI-TxDOT Partnership
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In 1950, the Texas A&M Board of Directors charged the Texas Transportation Institute (now the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, or TTI) to enlist the broad resources of the college across the spectrum of transportation research to benefit Texas, while also providing unique educational opportunities for students to study and work in the field. Thi…
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#21 - Empowering Communities through Ethical Investment with Niaz Cannoth
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Send us a text Step into the world of ethical finance with our guest, Niaz Cannoth, whose remarkable journey reflects how financial investments can spark real change in communities. From his beginnings in Australia to becoming a leader in NDIS accommodation partnerships, Niaz demonstrates that success in finance goes beyond numbers. It's about upli…
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#20 - From Bondi to the World Embracing Ocean Conservation with Anita Kolni
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Send us a text What drives someone to transform a personal passion into a movement with global impact? Join us as Anita Kolni, the visionary founder of the Ocean Lovers Festival, reveals how her commitment to ocean conservation inspired the creation of a vibrant festival that captivates and educates. Anita's story is a testament to how an individua…
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#19 - From Vision to Reality: Inspiring Global Change with Julian (Jolly) Day
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Send us a text Discover the incredible journey of Julian (Jolly) Day, the visionary behind the Consensus Awards, as he shares his insights into innovation. These awards have spotlighted transformative technologies with a unique blend of rigour and support for over two decades. Join us as Julian recounts his path from the UK computer scene to shapin…
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Revisited: Crash Data and an Aging Population Raise an Issue: How old is too old to drive?
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Folks are living longer thanks to medical breakthroughs and healthier lifestyles, and that means our overall U.S. population is skewing older. The Texas Demographic Center notes that the U.S. population aged 65 and older spiked between 2010 and 2020, the largest 10-year growth on record. That means more drivers on the road are older too, and statis…
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#18 - Uniting for Melanoma Awareness Through Small Actions with Claudia Tolhurst
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Send us a text Claudia Tolhurst's journey from melanoma survivor to passionate advocate with the Hunter Melanoma Foundation is an inspiring tale of resilience and purpose. Claudia takes us through her personal story and highlights the urgency of raising awareness about this preventable disease. This episode brings to light Bec's heartwarming succes…
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The Math Doesn't Lie: Roundabouts Make Driving Safer, More Reliable, and Less Technology Dependent
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Roundabouts and other innovative intersections offer a number of advantages over more traditional designs, including improved sustainability, reliability, and resilience--and astonishing benefits to traffic safety for drivers. Amanda Austin, the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT's) lead in implementing these alternative designs, and TTI R…
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#17 - Empowering Hearts: Astrid Hocking’s Impactful Journey in Child Protection and Community Building
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Send us a text Astrid Hocking, the inspirational powerhouse of the not-for-profit world, shares her incredible journey and insights from two decades of empowering vulnerable children. Astrid has become a beacon of hope for local and international communities through her dynamic leadership at Hearts and Hands. Her tireless advocacy, through initiati…
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#16 - Nourishing Communities: The Transformative Journey of Our Big Kitchen (OBK) with Rabbi Dr Dovid Slavin
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Send us a text Rabbi Dr. Dovid Slavin and his wife, Laya, transformed a simple idea into a heartwarming reality that feeds thousands. From Leah's journey from hairdresser to a beacon of hope for women undergoing chemotherapy to the establishment of Our Big Kitchen (OBK) in Bondi, Sydney, this episode captures their incredible story. Discover how OB…
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Revolution Requires Evolution: We Need New Roadside Safety Standards for Electric Vehicles
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In June 2024, TTI's Roadside Safety and Physical Security Team crashed a Tesla Model 3 electric vehicle (EV) into a heavy-duty guardrail at 62 miles per hour. When the EV blew right through the barrier, researchers were stunned. TTI Senior Research Engineer Roger Bligh, whose 38 years of roadside safety barrier testing experience oversaw the test, …
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#15 - A Festive Wrap-Up and a Look Ahead to 2025
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Send us a text Claudia Tolhurst returns to our spotlight with transformative insights into melanoma prevention, shedding light on how early detection can lead to life-saving recoveries. Her expertise has not only sparked widespread conversation but is instrumental in changing lives, proving that knowledge truly is power. Meanwhile, we're excited to…
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Innovation, Education, Communication: TTI's University Transportation Centers
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Administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the University Transportation Centers Program provides grants to college and university consortia across America. With an emphasis on innovating transportation technologies, educating the next generation of transportation professionals, and transferring technology to share lessons learned, the …
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#14 - Melanoma Awareness: Understanding and Protecting Your Skin with Claudia Tolhurst
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Send us a text Uncover the alarming truth behind melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in our compelling conversation with Claudia Tolhurst, Executive Officer at the Hunter Melanoma Foundation. Join us as we shine a light on why melanoma is referred to as Australia's "national cancer" and explore the foundation's dedicated mission to combat …
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#13 - The Automation Advantage: Reclaiming Time and Redefining Work with Brad Woollett
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Send us a text Ever wondered how artificial intelligence can transform your workplace and give you back precious time? Join us as we chat with Brad Woollett, CEO of Definiti, on Newcastle’s sunny Honeysuckle foreshore. Brad reveals how Definiti is revolutionising work with automation, introducing digital co-workers like Vinnie—AI-powered helpers de…
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Trending Teens: What TTI's Latest Research Says about Young Driver Attitudes and Behaviors
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For more than two decades, TTI has championed young driver safety, preventing injury and saving lives through education, empowerment, and peer-led outreach. Supported by public- and private-sector sponsors, the Institute's Youth Transportation Safety (YTS) Program recently published Texas Trends, 2024, which captures data regarding young driver att…
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#12 - Empowering Voices: Wendi's Journey from Banking to Disability Advocacy
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Send us a text Discover the inspiring journey of Wendi Czislowski, a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. She shares her remarkable transition from the world of banking to the heart of disability support. Wendi opens up about the transformative power of words and the critical role communication plays in advocating for those who cannot …
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#11 - Driving Regional Prosperity Through Targeted Strategies with Robert Scotto
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Send us a text Unlock the secrets of regional marketing success with Robert Scotto, the mastermind behind Retail Media Hub. Discover how targeted marketing can be a game-changer for regional businesses, boosting visibility, sales, and job creation in areas like the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, and Newcastle. Robert shares an inspiring story of ho…
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Bridge to Everywhere: How to Keep International Trucks Moving While Expanding The Bridge of the Americas.
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International commerce depends on trucks crossing national borders regularly, reliably, and securely. Ports of entry like the bridges connecting the United States and Mexico in El Paso, Texas, are vital to both nations' economic vitality. But what happens when a major conduit like The Bridge of the Americas is closed for updating? Where does that t…
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#10 - Celebrating Genuine Connections and Inspiring Change
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Send us a text Ever wondered what makes a conversation genuinely engaging? Journey with me, Leon Goltsman, as we celebrate a special milestone—the 10th episode of Engaging Conversations. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the art of listening and the profound impact of genuine human connection. From insights from my books, Engaging Conversat…
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Virtual Degree, Real-World Opportunity: Texas A&M Online Master's of Engineering Offers Recipients New Career Options
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Texas A&M University's Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering offers an online master of engineering in engineering degree designed for engineering professionals interested in management. Led by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), this program offers valuable real-world experience from qualified instructors in topics like working wit…
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#9 - Crafting New Paths in Community Healthcare with John Jones
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Send us a text Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of John Jones, a former aspiring rugby league player turned successful pharmacist and dietitian in Newcastle, New South Wales. John's path from sports to healthcare reveals the incredible impact of passion and perseverance. Influenced by his mother's dedication as a pharmacy assistant, John…
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#8 - Electric Dreams and Community Themes with Lake Macquarie's "Guru" Gary McCleay
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Send us a text What does building a successful business grounded in genuine community spirit take? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Gary McCleay, a well-respected electrician from Lake Macquarie whose career journey began in the most unexpected of places—a chicken farm. With no need for flashy advertising, Gary's story is one of dedicatio…
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Long Trains Runnin': How Freight Trains Impact U.S. Communities According to a Recently Released Study Requested by Congress
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On September 17, 2024, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine released a report following a study of freight trains longer than 7,500 feet and their impacts on local communities. Requested by the U.S. Congress, the report recommends empowering regulatory agencies to address challenges such as safety concerns and traffic delays…
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#7 - Enhancing Local Ties Through Digital Innovation with Mitch Toner
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Send us a text Curious about how technology can reshape your local business landscape? Join me, Leon Goltsman, and our enlightening guest, Mitch Toner of Elaris Technologies, as we unlock the secrets to leveraging tech for community growth and personal connections. Mitch shares his nuanced understanding of businesses' unique challenges when transit…
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#6 - Mastering Personal Finance and Credit Management with Erica Voelkel
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Send us a text Want to unlock the secrets of financial stability and independence? Join us for an insightful conversation with Erica Voelkel from LJ Hooker, where she demystifies the world of credit scores and their profound impact on our financial lives. Erica, a seasoned home loan specialist, shares her wealth of knowledge on how credit scores ar…
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EVolving Attitudes, Expanding Infrastructure: Electric Vehicles Are Charging Ahead Thanks to Public Sector Incentives.
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The Washington Post recently reported that electric vehicles (EVs) now outnumber gas-powered cars in Norway, the first country to claim that distinction. The U.S. Joint Office of Energy and Transportation--a shared agency of the U.S. Departments of Energy and Transportation--was created in 2021 under the bipartisan infrastructure law to help facili…
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#5 - Building Thriving Workplaces: HR Insights with Danielle Howe
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Send us a text In this episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman sits down with HR expert Danielle Howe, who brings over 25 years of experience. Together, they unpack the secrets to building a workplace where people thrive. From Danielle's journey in her family's electrical business to her leadership in HR, she shares powerful insights …
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#4 - Empowering Local Businesses: Passion, Challenges, and Community Connections
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Send us a text What makes a local business truly thrive? In this episode, we uncover the secrets to business success through an inspiring conversation with Emmanuel Constantinou, President of the Bondi and District Chamber of Commerce and owner of Kwik Kopy Bondi Junction. Emmanuel's journey, driven by a family legacy in the print industry, reveals…
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#3 - Transforming Parkinson's Care: Advocacy, Empathy, and Community Action
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Send us a text What if you could change the course of Parkinson's disease for thousands of people? Join us on a compelling journey with Mary Kay Walker, CEO of Parkinson's NSW, and Rachel Tanny, Chair of the Board. You'll hear their deeply personal stories, from Mary Kay's pivot from corporate life driven by her advocacy for the ageing brain to Rac…
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Revisited: Alone in the Crowd: Long-haul truckers fight isolation through satellite connections.
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With National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (Sept. 15-21) just around the corner, it seemed a good time to revisit our interview with Mark Willis from almost exactly one year ago. This is the week in which the trucking industry celebrates the contributions of roughly 3.5 million professional truck drivers nationwide, who deliver the essential good…
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#2 - The Power of Partnership in Supporting Domestic Violence Survivors
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Send us a text Can a community truly make a difference in the lives of domestic violence survivors? Join us as Maria, the dedicated founder of Survivor's R Us, shares incredible stories of transformation and hope. Discover the profound impact of a simple act, like providing fresh fruits to children, and the crucial support offered to pregnant women…
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#1 - Introduction: The Journey to Reconnect and Inspire
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Send us a text In the first episode of Engaging Conversations, host Leon Goltsman welcomes you to the weekly podcast that connects with the heart of our communities. Through authentic and powerful dialogues, Leon shines a light on the people making a real difference—those unsung heroes who lead purposefully and inspire positive change. Hope in a wo…
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Celebrating a Lifetime Storyteller: Bernie Fette passes the baton to our podcast's new host, Allan Rutter.
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This 89th episode of Thinking Transportation is a landmark event. Host Bernie Fette, who is retiring from service to the state of Texas after more than 30 years, is passing the podcast hosting baton to Allan Rutter, TTI's Freight Practice Leader. Included in his decades of transportation-related employment, Allan served as Federal Railroad Administ…
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Not So Fast! Can driver behavior influence how speed limits are set?
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Factors that determine speed limits on a given roadway have a lot to do with physical conditions along the route, but how fast drivers want to go figures into the equation, too.By Bernie Fette, Marcus Brewer
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Revisited: At the Intersection of Engineering and Psychology -- How a diverse team manages special event traffic.
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When special events set new records for attendance, they tend to do the same for roadway gridlock. To ensure success, experts rely on the right mix of traffic planning and outreach.By Bernie Fette, Debbie Albert
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The Never Ending Story? Why road projects take so long to complete.
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Building a new highway involves a complex and painstaking process, one that begins years before the folks in hard hats and orange vests arrive on the scene.By Bernie Fette, Bill Eisele
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Anchors Aweigh: How maritime interests occupy a vital link in the freight industry.
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We rely upon waterborne shipping for most of the products we buy and use every day. We hardly give that reliance any thought at all – until something goes wrong.By Bernie Fette, Jim Kruse
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Is Traffic Back to Pre-COVID Levels? That depends on where you live.
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It’s not enough to know that traffic is bad and getting worse. We also need to know where, when, and why. TTI Senior Research Scientist and urban mobility expert David Schrank joins us to discuss the "how" of answering those questions.By Bernie Fette, David Schrank
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Revisited--Exit This Way: Research informing upgrades in hurricane evacuation planning.
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As the 2024 hurricane season approaches again, climate experts across the United States are predicting an especially active season, driven largely by higher-than-average sea surface temperatures. This makes ever more important the research and planning that begins long before extreme weather strikes, and continues long after the storm has passed.…
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A Two-Edged Sword: In-vehicle technologies can either help us or hurt us.
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As car makers focus on protecting drivers and passengers, do their computer-based innovations really make us safer, or might they in some cases compromise our safety?By Bernie Fette, Mike Manser
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Bhatt and Winfree: Two industry leaders and their shared optimism for the future.
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FHWA Administrator Shailen Bhatt and TTI Agency Director Greg Winfree reflect upon a wide range of mobility challenges and opportunities, with references to Star Wars, Dick Tracy and hair styles.By Bernie Fette, Greg Winfree, Shailen Bhatt
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Will AI Help Us Realize Our Highest Hopes or Our Deepest Fears?
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Artificial intelligence seeks to replicate the analytical and creative capabilities of the human brain. Perhaps that lofty ambition helps to explain why so many humans are leery of the idea.By Bernie Fette, Bob Brydia
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Ep15: Interview with David Capes (Matthew through OT Eyes)
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Dr. David Capes joins the show to talk about his new book, Matthew Through OT Eyes, a great resource highlighting the Jewish background and context of the First Gospel.By Nijay K. Gupta
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More Transit Agencies Are Jumping on the Battery-Powered Bandwagon.
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Cities working to become leaders in clean transportation are electrifying their bus fleets, and learning that the road to success can be a bumpy one.By Bernie Fette, John Overman
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Neil Pedersen Has a Question: Are we willing to stick our necks out?
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The former leader of TRB may have stepped away from full-time employment, but he hasn’t stepped away entirely from the industry he has helped to guide for half a century.By Bernie Fette, Neil Pedersen
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