Voices of the Industry presented by Steer.

About Voices of the Industry presented by Steer.

Voices of the Industry is a podcast series from Steer (https://www.steergroup.com/), a global consultancy specialising in the critical services and infrastructure that make our world work. Our Voices of the Industry series features leading figures from across the globe who share their ideas, innovations and inspirations, while providing fresh perspectives and lively discussion on what the future holds in their sector. www.steergroup.com (https://steergroup.com/)

Publisher

Steer

Category

business · education · government · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Sept 2023

Latest episode

28 May 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 May 2026

   #17 Better Connected: How to get the integrated transport strategy moving

   The UK Government's long-awaited integrated transport strategy, Better Connected, sets out an ambitious vision for a more joined-up, accessible and user-focused transport system. But does the strategy go far enough to deliver the transformation needed across the UK's transport networks and places? And how do we get it moving? In this episode of Steer's podcast, Director Nicola Kane is joined by colleagues Steve Hunter, Rubi Sarang and Dom Smith to explore how the strategy could translate into practical delivery across rail, bus, active travel and local transport planning. The discussion examines whether Better Connected provides the policy framework, funding direction and cross-sector alignment needed to genuinely integrate transport and development. Topics include transit-oriented development around rail stations, the role of vision-led planning within the updated National Planning Policy Framework, and how place-based business cases could support more sustainable growth and investment decisions. The episode also asks whether the strategy strikes the right balance between national direction and local flexibility. While Better Connected places strong emphasis on partnership working, devolution and integrated planning, the panel explores whether local authorities and transport agencies currently have the capacity, capability and funding to deliver against such a wide-ranging agenda. Other key themes explored include: * Whether the strategy goes far enough on reducing car dependency and decarbonising local journeys * How effectively Better Connected addresses affordability, accessibility and social inclusion * The extent to which user insight is truly embedded within rail and bus reform * Whether reforms to bus and rail governance will create more seamless end-to-end journeys * How transport investment appraisal is evolving towards wider place-based outcomes * The growing role of data, innovation and cross-modal planning in creating integrated networks * The importance of healthier communities, active travel and safer public spaces within transport policy Drawing on examples from across the UK, the conversation provides a practical and solution-focused assessment of what Better Connected means for transport authorities, operators, planners and policymakers tasked with turning strategy into reality.

2. 

   11 Mar 2026

   #16 Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts Ep. 3 | Nicole Muise Kielkucki

   In this episode of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts, Executive President Herbert Higginbotham speaks with Nicole Muise-Kielkucki, Vice President at Fourth Economy, about how equity-focused planning and inclusive engagement are shaping economic development strategies across the United States. Drawing on her experience working with communities at the state, regional, and local level, Nicole shares how economic development planning is evolving as places confront complex challenges including housing affordability, workforce support, and energy costs. Their discussion explores how planners and policymakers can better understand the cultural, political, and economic context of each community to design strategies that support sustainable and inclusive growth. Hear expert insights on: * How housing, childcare, and other support systems are becoming central to economic development strategies. * Why inclusive engagement is essential for planning communities' long-term futures. * Lessons from Pennsylvania's first Statewide Housing Action Plan. * How economic development challenges differ across rural communities, post-industrial cities, and fast-growing regions. * Why balancing growth, identity, and opportunity is key to long-term community success. From statewide housing strategies to local economic action plans, this conversation explores how thoughtful planning and collaboration can help communities navigate change while ensuring growth benefits both new and long-time residents. 🎧 Listen to Episode 3 of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts — a series exploring ideas, people, and perspectives driving change across Steer's North American business. www.steergroup.com/insights/inside-steer-conversations-with-experts [https://steergroup.com/insights/inside-steer-conversations-with-experts]

3. 

   15 Dec 2025

   #15 Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts Ep. 2 | Masroor Hasan

   Passenger rail across North America is undergoing a fundamental reset. Travel patterns have shifted, funding is tighter, and agencies are being forced to rethink how services are planned, funded and operated. In this episode of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts, Herbert Higginbotham, Executive President, North America, speaks with Masroor Hasan, Senior Vice President, Rail Advisory, about how the rail and transit sector is responding in real time. They discuss what ridership recovery really looks like post-pandemic, why traditional demand assumptions no longer hold, and how data-driven planning is helping agencies adapt. The conversation also explores the growing role of private partners, the increasing focus on business cases and investment discipline, and what the next 5–10 years could mean for passenger rail across the US and Canada. A practical, insight-led discussion for public agencies, investors and anyone involved in shaping the future of rail. www.steergroup.com [https://steergroup.com/]

4. 

   11 Nov 2025

   #14 Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts - Ep. 1 | David Cuneo

   In this first episode of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts, Executive President Herbert Higginbotham speaks with David Cuneo, Senior Vice President for Traffic & Revenue Forecasting, about how technology, data, and innovation are reshaping travel, cities, and the future of infrastructure across North America. Their discussion explores how connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) could transform mobility, from how we plan our cities to how investors assess future transport networks — and what this means for the next generation of infrastructure projects. Hear expert insights on: * How connected and autonomous vehicles are redefining traveller behaviour and transport demand. * The growing role of data and technology in improving traffic and revenue forecasting. * How public–private partnerships (P3s) can help deliver the next wave of highway investment. * What these shifts mean for cities, clients, and the people who rely on better mobility every day. From forecasting models powered by big data to the future of connected travel corridors, this conversation offers a forward look at how innovation will shape tomorrow's infrastructure landscape. 🎧 Listen to Episode 1 of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts — a series exploring ideas, people, and perspectives driving change across Steer's North American business. Guest David Cuneo, Senior Vice President, Steer Host Herbert Higginbotham, Executive President, North America, Steer www.steergroup.com [https://steergroup.com/]

5. 

   8 Jul 2025

   #13 Ramping Up: What's Putting the Breaks on Fleet Electrification in the UK?

   Elaine Meshki interviews Toby Poston about the challenges and opportunities impacting fleet electrification in the UK, including infrastructure and policy changes, offering insights for industry stakeholders.

6. 

   3 Jul 2025

   #12 Ramping Up: Unlocking the Value in EV Infrastructure Investment

   Industry experts discuss the commercial viability of electric vehicle infrastructure, examining charging business models, public policy, capital funding, and technological innovation to unlock scalable investment opportunities in this rapidly evolving market.

7. 

   29 Nov 2024

   #11 From Pitch to Platform: Rail's role in football

   Gary Steele, Project Lead for the Football on Rail Initiative, and Gemma Bedlow from Steer's Sports and Major Events team explore how rail operators and football clubs can collaborate for smoother, more sustainable matchday journeys.

8. 

   31 Oct 2024

   #10 How can we create equitable shared mobility in North America?

   In the latest episode of Steer's Voices of the Industry podcast series, Alia Verloes, Steer's Lead for the New Mobility Market in North America, talks to three bike share and mobility equity leaders: Laura Mallonee, Director of Programs and Membership at the North American Bikeshare & Scootershare Association (NABSA); Adriel Thornton, Executive Director of MoGo Detroit Bike Share; and Waffiyyah Murray, Better Bike Share Partnership Program Manager at the City of Philadelphia. The conversation explores how bike share programs are becoming more inclusive and equitable. Our guests share their thoughts on how to embed equity into every part of bike share systems and how programs in cities like Detroit and Philadelphia are engaging the community, making bikes more accessible through adaptive bikes and driving social change. An essential listen for those in transportation, urban mobility, and community engagement, this episode offers practical examples and strategies to help bike share programs serve as a catalyst for social equity and urban innovation. Key takeaways * Equity in all parts of the program: Find out how the most impactful bike share programs weave equity into all components rather than treating it as a standalone initiative, ensuring greater access for all communities. * Expanding accessibility with adaptive & e-bikes: Learn about electrifying bike share fleets and introducing adaptive bikes so micromobility is accessible to people of all abilities and making inclusivity the core of transportation. * Community led approaches to engagement: Hear about community outreach strategies and the value of long-term partnerships with local communities to build programs that respond to their needs and priorities. Guest(s) * Laura Mallonee, Director of Programs and Membership at the North American Bikeshare & Scootershare Association (NABSA) * Adriel Thornton, Executive Director at MoGo Detroit Bike Share * Waffiyyah Murray, Better Bike Share Partnership Program Manager at the City of Philadelphia Host(s) * Alia Verloes [https://steergroup.com/about/our-people/alia-verloes], North American New Mobility Market Lead, Steer. www.steergroup.com [https://steergroup.com/]

9. 

   27 Sept 2024

   #9 Highway to the future: The first CAV corridor in the US

   The autonomous vehicle (AV) future is coming, but what that will look like and how soon it will arrive is yet to be seen. One of the first steps in the US will be the connected autonomous vehicle corridor – or CAV corridor – on I-94 in Southeast Michigan, linking university town Ann Arbor with long-time manufacturing hub Detroit. In this episode of Voices of the Industry Megan Brock, Senior Strategy Manager at Cavnue, and Toni Feather, Associate at Steer, discuss the revolutionary concept of CAV corridors and how this new digital infrastructure will transform road safety, congestion and the future of autonomous vehicles across North America. An essential listen for those in transportation, infrastructure, and technology sectors, the episode highlights the partnership between Cavnue and the Michigan Department of Transportation as well as the role of Steer in bringing this smart infrastructure to life. Key takeaways * CAV corridors: Learn how these smart highways use real-time data and advanced technologies to improve road safety, reduce congestion, and enhance traffic efficiency. * Public-private collaboration: The episode discusses how Cavnue's partnership with the Michigan Department of Transportation sets the foundation for the future of automated and connected vehicles on US roads. * Autonomous vehicle transition: Discover how CAV corridors will bridge the gap between today's manual driving environment and the fully autonomous future, providing valuable data and insights along the way. Guest(s) * Megan Brock, Senior Strategy Manager at Cavnue, leads strategic planning and development at Cavnue, focusing on advancing connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) infrastructure. With expertise in transportation innovation and a background in infrastructure projects, she is at the forefront of integrating smart technologies to transform the future of US roadways. * Toni Feather, Associate at Steer, is a transportation specialist at Steer with extensive experience in demand forecasting and infrastructure projects. She plays a key role in developing smart mobility solutions, contributing to the advancement of connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technologies in the US and beyond. Host(s) * Tim Gallagher, Steer Journalist. www.steergroup.com [https://steergroup.com/]

10. 

    1 Jul 2024

    #8 Sustainable cities: Manchester's LAEP journey

    In the latestIn the latest episode of Steer's Voices of the Industry podcast series Steer Director Nicola Kane is joined by Mark Atherton, Director of Environment at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Shivali Mathur of Amberside Advisors. The episode delves into Local Area Energy Plans (LEAPs) and the role they play in helping local authorities take action on decarbonisation. The insightful discussion highlights the significant challenges and innovative solutions at play as Greater Manchester works towards its ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. An essential guide to efforts to decarbonise at a local level, the episode shows that if local governments, private investors and the community come together ambitious climate goals can be met. Key takeaways Local Area Energy Plans (LEAPs): Discover how LEAPs function as data-driven spatial planning tools that help local authorities map their energy use and create bespoke roadmaps to net zero. Investment strategies: The conversation covers the necessity of blending public and private finance to fund decarbonisation projects and the importance of creating robust business cases to attract investment. Collaborative approaches: The podcast emphasises the need for collaboration between local and national governments, private investors, and communities to effectively implement sustainable energy solutions. episode of Steer's Voices of the Industry podcast series Steer Director Nicola Kane is joined by Mark Atherton, Director of Environment at Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Shivali Mathur of Amberside Advisors. The episode delves into Local Area Energy Plans (LEAPs) and the role they play in helping local authorities take action on decarbonisation. The insightful discussion highlights the significant challenges and innovative solutions at play as Greater Manchester works towards its ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. An essential guide to efforts to decarbonise at a local level, the episode shows that if local governments, private investors and the community come together ambitious climate goals can be met. Listen to our latest episode Key takeaways Local Area Energy Plans (LEAPs): Discover how LEAPs function as data-driven spatial planning tools that help local authorities map their energy use and create bespoke roadmaps to net zero. Investment strategies: The conversation covers the necessity of blending public and private finance to fund decarbonisation projects and the importance of creating robust business cases to attract investment. Collaborative approaches: The podcast emphasises the need for collaboration between local and national governments, private investors, and communities to effectively implement sustainable energy solutions. www.steergroup.com (https://steergroup.com/)

11. 

    16 May 2024

    #7 Unlocking city decarbonisation: Local solutions for global challenges

    In the latest episode in our ‘Voices of the Industry’ podcast series Steer is joined by Peter Gudde, Net Zero Programme Lead at the Greater South East Net Zero Hub. As the urgency to address climate change intensifies, focus in the UK has shifted towards the value of localised decarbonisation solutions that fit the unique characteristics of the nation’s different economies and communities, both rural and urban. Our episode is a whistle stop tour of everything Net Zero Hubs do to help a broad range of clients from local authorities to energy providers achieve their low-carbon ambitions. From knowledge sharing and best practice to developing new metrics for investment and a ‘long sighted’ approach to capital, here we learn about innovative approaches to a whole system change that affects everyone. www.steergroup.com (https://steergroup.com/)

12. 

    20 Mar 2024

    #6 Unlocking TDM: Lessons learned from both sides of the Atlantic

    How can we make more efficient use of our transportation system? How can we encourage people out of their cars and onto bicycles, buses, trains or walking, or change the time that they travel or even where they travel to? These questions are cast in a new light in a climate conscious, public-health focused post-COVID world and one place where answers can be found is in transportation demand management (TDM). In this episode of ‘Voices of the Industry’, London-based Steer Director Lisa Martin is joined by our Associate in the US Julia Wean as the pair discuss lessons learned from their careers in TDM, or behaviour change as it is commonly called in the UK. An interesting insight into one of Steer’s primary markets, this episode spans national boundaries and multiple decades as we discuss the changing motives and methods of TDM. www.steergroup.com (https://www.steergroup.com/)

13. 

    26 Feb 2024

    #5 Part 2: Projects, Decisions, and Future Challenges with ORR

    In this special two-part episode of ‘Voices of the Industry’, we are joined by John Larkinson, the CEO of the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). In Part one, we investigated the ORR's crucial role in monitoring and regulating Britain's strategic road and rail infrastructure and explored how it navigates current challenges. In Part two of our conversation with John, we dive into specific projects, decisions, and future challenges that are shaping the rail industry. We explore how key decisions, such as the future of the HS2 project, impact rail infrastructure. John shares valuable insights into the challenges and considerations behind such significant projects, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the rail development landscape. Missed part one? Catch up now - ‘Part 1: Challenges and dynamics of rail regulation with the ORR (https://uk.steergroup.com/insights/news/part-1-challenges-dynamics-rail-regulation-orr)’. www.steergroup.com (https://www.steergroup.com/)

14. 

    6 Feb 2024

    #4 Part 1: Challenges and dynamics of rail regulation with the ORR

    In this special two-part episode of ‘Voices of the Industry’, we are joined by John Larkinson, the CEO of the Office of Rail and Road (ORR). In part one of this insightful conversation, John walks us through the intricacies of the ORR’s differing roles for health and safety and economic regulation within Britain’s strategic road and rail network. Facing challenges like inflation, dramatically changed usage of the network, decarbonisation aspirations and ongoing industrial action, the ORR has an influential role to play as the transport sector steers its way through these rapidly changing times. Explore the history, current challenges, and exciting potential for the monitoring and regulation of our strategic transport network as we discuss investment, Brexit, and the financial implications of ageing core infrastructure. Stay tuned for Part 2, coming soon, where we discuss specific projects, decisions, and future challenges that impact rail infrastructure. www.steergroup.com (https://www.steergroup.com/)

15. 

    8 Jan 2024

    #3 Keeping infrastructure projects on track: Lessons from New South Wales

    Infrastructure projects the world over start with the best intentions, but rising costs and ‘analysis paralysis’ often mean their full potential goes unrealized. This is a common theme in every country, but have some been able to develop strategies to help stay the course and deliver benefits for all? In this episode of ‘Voices of the Industry’ Steer’s market lead for transportation strategy and business case analysis in North America, Patrick Miller, speaks to Ingrid Emery, Executive Director of Biodiversity and Conservation for the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Planning and Environment as she talks about the innovative approach to infrastructure assurance in this Australian state. A focus on risk assessment, use of independent experts for assurance reviews, and repeated use of business cases throughout created a thorough assessment process to keep projects on track throughout their lifecycle. Are there some notes for North American planners to take? www.steergroup.com (https://www.steergroup.com/)

16. 

    27 Nov 2023

    #2 On track to Net Zero: The Amtrak journey with Dennis Newman

    Amtrak is one of the most recognisable names in North American transport having been providing rail passengers with outstanding service across the US and Canada since the 1970s. More important than Amtrak’s prestigious past however is its future role in achieving Net Zero in the transport sector. Rail is a far more sustainable mode than air travel and its potential to reduce emissions on intercity journeys at a time of urban growth is huge. As well as an overall reduction through mode shift Amtrak itself is on a journey to a greener future as it aims to achieve net zero by 2045. Join cohosts Mike Goggin (https://www.steergroup.com/about/our-people/mike-goggin) and Serbjeet Kohli (https://www.steergroup.com/about/our-people/serbjeet-kohli) as they talk to Amtrak’s Dennis Newman about the iconic company’s pathway to Net Zero including engaging their workforce, creating more resilient rail infrastructure, reducing fleet emissions and more. www.steergroup.com (https://www.steergroup.com/)

17. 

    13 Sept 2023

    #1 How station design at California High-Speed Rail is creating a sustainable future with Meg Cederoth.

    What is the future of transport for the USA’s most populous state? California High-Speed Rail (HSR) has big plans to reshape not just how the state’s projected 50 million residents will get around but also how their cities, agriculture and state overall will look. In this episode, ‘Voices of the Industry’ interviews Meg Cederoth, the Director of Planning and Sustainability at HSR. Join us as Meg explains how HSR’s approach to station design and planning will build both California’s communities and its sustainability agenda. Key takeaways: - HSR is part of California’s plan to decarbonize. - Station design can increase not just numbers of rail passengers but active travel. - Placemaking is a key component of station planning for HSR. - Station design can improve wider town planning, prevent urban sprawl and protect agriculture.

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Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 12 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

25

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

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