The Brake: A Streetsblog Podcast

Research paper co-authors Shelley Bontje and Chris Bruntlett discuss balancing traffic calming with emergency response times. They delve into the Dutch approach to street design for both cyclists and EMS vehicles. The podcast explores innovative governance models, cultural traits of Dutch engineers, and the importance of collaboration between bike advocates and EMS workers for safer cities.

Former Bicycling Magazine editor Peter Flax and guest host Gersh Kuntzman discuss the unity and joy of biking, advocating for collaborative efforts to improve biking infrastructure. They delve into promoting cyclist rights, transforming cities positively, addressing challenges in bike advocacy, and reframing the definition of a 'real cyclist' to foster inclusivity and safety in biking culture.

In this podcast, they discuss the hidden health impacts of car culture, the societal injustices of auto mobility, and the need for sustainable transportation interventions. They delve into the negative impacts of automobility, including traffic crashes, pollution, and violence, and highlight the pervasive harm it inflicts on society. The podcast encourages shifting towards walking, cycling, and public transportation for safer and healthier cities.

Jeff Speck and Chris Dempsey discuss the importance of walkability studies for American communities, emphasizing the transformative impact of prioritizing pedestrian safety in urban planning. They explore low-cost strategies for improving walkability, such as replacing traffic lights with stop signs, and address the challenges and benefits of enhancing urban mobility through pedestrian-friendly designs.

Urbanist Jay Pitter discusses the challenges faced by Black North Americans in public spaces and her 'Being Black in Public' survey. Topics include the impact of personal experiences on advocacy work, historical anti-black policies, policy recommendations for equitable spaces, and the unseen labor in advocacy.

Technology expert Rana Abbas Taylor discusses the HALT Act and advanced sensors in vehicles to prevent impaired driving. She shares the emotional journey of her family's tragic loss and advocates for stricter laws. The podcast debunks misconceptions about drunk driving prevention technology and calls for urgent action to support passive technology in vehicles.

Exploring how Baby Boomers shaped America's car-centric transportation system, the podcast discusses their role in climate decisions and the need for sustainable solutions. From personal investment choices to collective action and civil disobedience in activism, the episode highlights engaging Boomers in climate conversations and advocating for change.

Rep. Earl Blumenauer discusses the impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law on sustainable transportation, emphasizing the benefits for cyclists and pedestrians. He advocates for safe streets programs, bike safety funding, and the importance of bipartisan support for cycling initiatives. Blumenauer believes bikes can bridge political divides and promote a more sustainable future.

Legendary author and climate activist Bill McKibben discusses the importance of reducing car dependency and promoting walking to combat the climate crisis. He highlights the benefits of pedestrian-friendly environments, policy changes for sustainable transportation, and the joy of choosing walking over driving. McKibben challenges audiences to embrace walking as a way to address the climate crisis and enhance well-being.

In this episode, Renee Autumn Ray discusses her recent report on understanding AI & transportation. They explore the current applications of AI in transportation, including crash data analysis, parking enforcement, and creating human-centered streets. They also discuss the barriers for governments in utilizing AI and the risks and potential misuse of the technology. The episode concludes by exploring the ethical dilemmas and potential of autonomous vehicles.