The War on Cars

Dive into the fascinating world of a 1916 book that idolizes the automobile, revealing its influence on health, prosperity, and even eugenics. Discover surprising insights that didn’t make it into a forthcoming book. The discussion highlights the extravagant praise for automobiles and their cultural significance, while also poking fun at the lavish illustrations of the era. Get ready for an entertaining exploration of how cars shaped society, mixing history with unexpected twists!

Dani Simons, a transportation policy expert who worked in the Biden administration's Department of Transportation, shares insights on transportation shifts. She discusses the transition from pro-public transport leadership to a more oil-aligned approach. Key initiatives like NYC's Summer Streets and CityBike are explored, highlighting their impact on urban mobility and climate change. Dani emphasizes the need to protect recent transportation advancements and advocates for effective communication to champion these successes amid political shifts.

Seth Solomonow, a former New York City Department of Transportation employee, shares his insights on the launch of congestion pricing in NYC. He discusses the excitement among advocates and residents about reducing traffic and pollution. The conversation reveals comparisons to successful systems in cities like London and Singapore, along with the potential for transforming urban mobility. Solomonow highlights the need for improved public transportation funding and the shift towards more pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

Derek Guy, known as The Menswear Guy, is a men's fashion writer celebrated for his insights into urbanism's impact on style. He discusses how walkable cities shape what people wear, making the connection between city design and fashion clear. Tokyo's vibrant scene as a hub for craftsmen and enthusiasts is explored, alongside the implications of the housing crisis on personal style. Derek also emphasizes the importance of supporting local artisans, showcasing how community dynamics foster unique fashion expressions.

Listeners share their most uplifting moments from 2024, highlighting personal and community victories. A touching story features a parent's joy as their teenager embraces independence through biking to high school. Discussions focus on the transformative power of sustainable transportation, celebrating new bike lanes and lower speed limits. These changes not only improve safety but also enhance community bonds, empowering youth and families to thrive beyond car dependency. It's a heartwarming look at progress and hope for the future.

Tara Goddard, an associate professor at Texas A&M University, focuses on equitable transportation systems and safe roadway design. In the discussion, she explores why people drive aggressively and how societal views around cars are shaped. The conversation delves into the term 'motonomativity,' the racial biases in driver behavior towards pedestrians, and the media's passive language that minimizes accountability in traffic incidents. Tara underscores the need for a cultural shift in how we think about streets and who they serve.

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.