
The War on Cars
The War on Cars brings you news, commentary and stories about the worldwide battle to undo a century's worth of damage wrought by the automobile.
Latest episodes

Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 7min
Vehicular Cycling and John Forester, Part 2
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.

Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 8min
Vehicular Cycling and John Forester, Part 1
John Forester, the father of vehicular cycling and influential cycling advocate, is the spotlight in this engaging discussion. Forester's philosophy asserts that cyclists should navigate traffic like any other vehicle. The hosts explore topics from his groundbreaking book, 'Effective Cycling,' analyzing the challenges cyclists face on busy roads. They delve into the contrasts between modern bike advocacy and Forester's approaches, as well as the cultural shifts in cycling since the 1970s oil crisis, emphasizing the need for equal treatment for cyclists.

Jul 2, 2024 • 24min
Critical Mass Nairobi with Cyprine Odada
Cyprine Odada, an urban planner and Executive Director of Critical Mass Nairobi, shares how she's transforming Nairobi into a cycling city by organizing non-competitive cycling events, promoting joy and inclusivity in cycling, advocating for cycling infrastructure, and inspiring change in other African cities through the Critical Mass movement.

7 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 48min
Killed by a Traffic Engineer
A professor of civil engineering challenges the notion that traffic engineering is based on science in the podcast. Topics include the historical influence on safety standards, the relationship between speed limits and road safety, and the conflict between safety and traffic flow efficiency. The guest calls for a shift towards prioritizing safety in transportation design and discusses the evolution of traffic engineering perspectives over time.

5 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 26min
Women's Freedom to Ride
Explore the challenges faced by female cyclists in London, including verbal abuse and intimidation from drivers. Learn about the efforts of the London Cycling Campaign to make cycling safer and more accessible for women. Discover the benefits and empowerment of women's participation in cycling, alongside the ongoing push for improved infrastructure and societal perceptions.

5 snips
Jun 7, 2024 • 56min
Kathy Hochul's Congestion Pricing Flip-Flop Fiasco
In a surprising move, Governor Kathy Hochul suspends congestion pricing in NYC, sparking debates on transit funding, politics, and impact on the environment. The hosts discuss the repercussions and urge listeners to take action. The decision raises concerns about transit accessibility, economy, and potential effects on other cities considering congestion pricing programs. Listener support and advocacy efforts are highlighted as crucial in pushing for a reversal of Hochul's decision.

May 28, 2024 • 4min
TEASER: The War on The War on Cars
Preview of a Patreon-exclusive bonus episode discussing states trying to ban bus rapid transit and taxing driving. One state banned bus wraps for an unexpected reason. Chapter on a surprising conversation at a neighborhood fair and reflections on advocating for social change in relation to car culture.

May 21, 2024 • 1h 43min
Winter Cycling in Oil Country
Edmonton, a cold city in oil country, investing in safe bike lanes. Former mayor, Don Iveson, leading the transformation. Winter Cycling Congress promotes biking over driving. Advocates discuss gear, progress, and the 'War on Cars'. Efforts to make cities bike-friendly and sustainable. Biking as a form of transportation and community values. Recap of Winter Cycling Congress and new sponsor introduction.

May 7, 2024 • 41min
When Driving Is Not an Option with Anna Zivarts
Low-vision nondriver and activist Anna Zivarts discusses building a transportation system for those who can't drive, promoting inclusivity, safety, and sustainability. The podcast explores mobility privilege, community resilience, challenges of non-drivers, and the need to advocate for equitable, car-less futures.

Apr 25, 2024 • 7min
TEASER: Dodge’s “Deeply Weird” Pitch for Electric Muscle Cars
Discover the transition of Dodge from gas guzzlers to electric muscle cars in a controversial 10-min ad. Dive into the cultural impact and marketing tactics used to convince loyal customers. Explore the fusion of tradition with innovation in car culture advertising as Dodge embraces electric power.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.