Ed Begley Jr., a renowned actor and environmental activist, shares his journey from Hollywood fame to advocating for sustainable living. He discusses his long-standing commitment to electric vehicles and public transportation, even taking the LA Metro to award shows. With humor, he recounts personal car experiences and highlights the importance of shifting from car culture to walkable city designs. Ed's insights into merging environmental responsibility with everyday life showcase the potential for meaningful change in an industry often dominated by ostentatious displays of wealth.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Sabrina Nanji, founder of the Queens Park Observer, sheds light on Doug Ford's contentious Bill 212, which threatens the future of bike lanes in Ontario. She explores the political fallout surrounding bike lane opposition, touching on local business reactions and community sentiments. The urban-suburban divide in voter support highlights pivotal tensions, suggesting that cycling infrastructure could become a key issue in upcoming elections.

Tough elections can bring hope! Discover victories in transit and safe streets across the U.S. as cities like Nashville invest billions in public transport. Explore the significance of community activism with New York's jaywalking legalization and reflect on progressivism in the face of adversity. From personal rights to urban changes, the discussion emphasizes political engagement and collective action. Together, listeners can navigate challenges while fostering positive transformation in their communities!

Academy Award-winning director Adam McKay, known for films like Don’t Look Up, discusses his journey into filmmaking and the existential dread driving his work. He advocates for climate action through humor, believing that laughter can tackle serious issues effectively. McKay critiques car culture's environmental impact, envisioning a post-car era. He also shares insights on the transformative power of visual storytelling and the challenges of authentic climate communication through his nonprofit, Yellow Dot Studios.

Hermann Knoflacher, a renowned Austrian civil engineer and professor, discusses the controversial analogy of cars as a virus. He critiques traditional urban planning, advocating for walkable spaces symbolized by his invention, the gehzeug. Knoflacher reflects on childhood transportation changes, emphasizing the loss of car-free environments and their environmental impact. He argues for policy shifts that prioritize pedestrians and cyclists and calls for innovative urban design post-pandemic to enhance public transport and reduce congestion.

Patty Wiens, the energetic Bike Mayor of Winnipeg, Canada, passionately advocates for better cycling infrastructure. She shares how her community rallies for safer streets in a car-centric environment. Patty discusses the impact of Winnipeg's extreme climate on biking and highlights social issues interconnected with cycling, such as homelessness and racial tensions. She also addresses the troubling rise in traffic violence, sharing a poignant story about the tragic death of Indigenous woman Tammy Bateman, urging for change and awareness.

Sara Bronin, an insightful author, discusses her book, Key to the City, unraveling the often unseen forces of zoning. She highlights how zoning can perpetuate car dependency and social inequities while showcasing stories from activists who are reshaping urban landscapes. Bronin emphasizes the potential for zoning to foster vibrant, pedestrian-friendly communities, emphasizing cases from cities like Hartford and Minneapolis. Listeners learn that with a better understanding of zoning, we can create inclusive and sustainable environments for all.

Jessica Pegula, a top-seeded American tennis player known for her choice of public transportation, shares her experiences riding the subway during the US Open. She discusses her preference for trains over cars, which aligns with a broader trend of athletes choosing sustainable modes of transport. The conversation touches on how sports figures like LeBron James are also opting for cycling instead of luxury vehicles, highlighting a shift in urban culture towards eco-friendly and health-conscious travel. Pegula’s subway ride didn’t hurt her performance—she made it to the final!

The discussion delves into Project 2025 and its implications for transportation policies. Concerns arise over proposed cuts to public transit funding and a shift towards car-centric solutions. The speakers critique conservative transportation ideologies and advocate for inclusive policies that prioritize accessibility. Questions around ride-hailing services and urban congestion are analyzed, while potential futures under Project 2025 highlight significant inequities. Voter engagement is emphasized as essential in shaping transport policies for all communities.

Rick Steves, a renowned travel writer and advocate for sustainable tourism, joins the discussion on the fascinating contrasts between European and American urban experiences. He emphasizes the allure of off-the-beaten-path destinations and the benefits of car-free vacations. The conversation touches on how travel transforms perceptions of urban living and advocates for pedestrian-friendly spaces. Steves shares personal insights into fueling local advocacy and his efforts to create vibrant community spaces, urging listeners to rethink their approach to urban mobility.