The War on Cars

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.

A fascinating preview from a cycling summit reveals the global fight for safer, more sustainable urban spaces. Doug speaks with officials and advocates about local challenges in cities like Auckland, focusing on tailored solutions for better cycling. The discussion also highlights Glasgow's inclusive strategies that empower communities through active mobility, showcasing how personal stories can inspire ownership of cycling. Together, they demonstrate that making cities bike-friendly is a united effort across the globe.

Listeners share inspiring origin stories about their journeys from car dependency to advocacy for safer urban environments. Personal narratives reveal the burdens of car culture while celebrating the shift towards cycling and walking. Highlights include a luchador advocate from Mexico City and reflections on adapting to a car-free lifestyle in Minneapolis. The duality of car love and environmental responsibility is explored, along with practical solutions for promoting bike-friendly policies. These transformative experiences showcase a passionate community fighting for better infrastructure.

Holden Ringer, a 26-year-old from Dallas, has just completed an inspiring 4,000-mile walk for a charitable cause. He shares gripping tales from his journey, pushing a stroller named Smiley while raising awareness for active transportation. The conversation highlights his insights on vulnerability faced by pedestrians and the disparities in infrastructure, particularly regarding race and gender. Ringer emphasizes the importance of advocacy in every step, revealing the compelling narrative behind his epic quest and the urgent need for better pedestrian safety.

In this podcast, John Forester, author of Effective Cycling, is discussed in relation to vehicular cycling. The episode focuses on the lack of concrete data supporting claims about cycling safety and the influence of Forester on bike infrastructure design. It explores the ongoing debate over the effectiveness of painted bike lanes, the impact of Forester's legacy on federal guidelines, and the challenges faced by advocates of alternative cycling perspectives.