In this episode of „The Future of Ground Transportation“ podcast, host Daniel Perez sits down with John Perry, Director of Strategy and Growth at DPV. John brings years of experience in the transportation and logistics industry, including managing fleets and operations. In this insightful conversation, John delves into the intricacies of managed transportation services, the challenges of implementing electric vehicle (EV) programs, and the evolving role of sustainable fuel alternatives like hydrogen. John explains how DPV helps Fortune 1000 companies by managing their transportation programs, whether it’s through fleet management, deploying electric vehicles, or sourcing highly trained chauffeurs. He also touches on the complexities of transitioning to EVs and the hurdles organizations face in fleet maintenance, procurement, and sustainability goals. This episode is packed with practical insights and actionable advice for businesses looking to optimize their transportation operations while adopting future-forward technologies. Whether you're in transportation, logistics, or simply interested in the future of mobility, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge. 🚨 Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation: • Managed transportation provides efficiency and cost savings • Electric vehicle adoption faces significant hurdles • Hydrogen fuel cells will share the future with EVs • Credibility is key for long-term business success 🚨 Episode Highlights: 👉 Managed transportation services: John outlines how DPV provides managed transportation services for organizations with their own fleets or those that need a third-party to manage their transportation programs. The benefits include increased efficiency, cost savings, and freeing up internal resources. 👉 Fleet maintenance and challenges: John discusses the often-overlooked challenge of fleet maintenance, emphasizing how managed transportation providers can alleviate the burden on companies by handling everything from staffing mechanics to managing inventory and logistics. 👉 Transition to electric vehicles (EVs): John sheds light on the challenges of implementing EV programs, from the high cost and long lead times for vehicles to the current limitations of battery life, which often require supplementation by traditional diesel or gas vehicles. 👉 Hydrogen vs. electric future: John offers his perspective on the rise of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and how they will likely coexist with electric vehicles as companies seek more sustainable transportation options. 👉 Advice for procurement officers: For organizations looking to procure transportation management services, John stresses the importance of working with credible, experienced providers and allowing enough time for proper implementation. Resources Mentioned: • “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey • “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill Get in contact with John: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-perry1/ Email: bcesolutions.jp@gmail.com 👉 About the Guest John Perry is the Director of Strategy and Growth at DPV, specializing in managed transportation services. With a background in logistics and fleet management, John brings years of experience optimizing transportation solutions for Fortune 1000 companies. His expertise spans business development, corporate strategy, and implementing innovative transportation technologies, including electric and hydrogen fuel vehicles. Passionate about efficiency and sustainability, John helps organizations navigate the complexities of modern transportation while driving growth and operational excellence. #ManagedTransportation #FleetManagement #ElectricVehicles #HydrogenFuel #TransportationSolutions #SustainableTransport #LogisticsInnovation #FutureOfMobility #BusinessGrowth #TransportationTrends

In this episode of The Future of Ground Transportation, host Daniel Perez sits down with Joshua Feast, the CEO and co-founder of Cogito, a company at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. With an MBA from MIT and years of experience in AI, Joshua shares his journey from basic research to founding Cogito, a company that enhances human interactions with AI. Joshua discusses the critical role AI plays in the transportation industry and customer service, focusing on the development of "super agents" – AI-driven systems that assist human agents in real-time to improve the quality of customer interactions. He explains how AI is transforming industries by optimizing operations, improving customer experiences, and even training humans to be more effective in their roles. Joshua also touches on the challenges of integrating AI into existing systems, the balance between AI and human interaction, and what the future holds for AI in customer service. He offers valuable insights for companies looking to integrate AI into their operations and discusses the broader implications of AI on the future of work. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of AI and transportation, as well as those in the customer service industry looking to stay ahead of technological trends. 👉 Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation: - AI in Transportation - Super Agents Technology - Challenges of AI Integration - Future of AI in Customer Service 🚨 Episode Highlights: AI in Transportation: Joshua explains how AI is transforming the transportation industry by enhancing customer service, optimizing operations, and supporting the development of autonomous vehicles. Super Agents Technology: Learn about Cogito's AI-driven "super agents" that provide real-time guidance to customer service representatives, helping them maintain high-quality interactions and improving overall customer satisfaction. Challenges of AI Integration: Joshua discusses the hurdles companies face when integrating AI into existing workflows and the importance of managing expectations about what AI can and cannot do. Future of AI in Customer Service: Despite advancements in AI, Joshua predicts that the need for human agents will continue to grow, as complex interactions still require a human touch. Practical Advice for Companies: Joshua shares practical advice for businesses looking to implement AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding the problem you're trying to solve and investing in the right talent and technology. 📚 Resources Mentioned: Good to Great by Jim Collins The Beermat Entrepreneur by Mike Southon 👉 Cogito Corporation: Learn more about the work Joshua and his team are doing to revolutionize customer service with AI at Cogito's website. 🎧 About the Guest Joshua Feast is the CEO and co-founder of Cogito, a company at the forefront of artificial intelligence focused on enhancing human interactions. With an MBA from MIT, Joshua has led Cogito in developing AI systems, known as "super agents," that assist customer service representatives in real-time, improving the quality and consistency of customer interactions. Joshua's journey began with research at MIT, supported by DARPA and the National Institutes of Health, aimed at understanding human behavior through AI. His work is dedicated to using AI not to replace humans, but to empower them, especially in complex fields like healthcare, transportation, and customer service. Joshua is recognized for his innovative approach to integrating AI with human experiences.

In this episode of "The Future of Ground Transportation," host Daniel interviews Wilfredo Guzman, Program Director of Boston CDL Driving School. Wilfredo shares his journey in the transportation sector and discusses how Boston CDL Driving School is disrupting and innovating driver training. They delve into the process of obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), job placement opportunities, and the challenges faced in the industry.

Wilfredo highlights the importance of addressing the shortage of CDL drivers and the school's partnerships with transit and school bus companies. He also touches on the future of transportation, including electric vehicles and CDL simulators.

Tune in to gain insights into the world of CDL training and the evolving landscape of ground transportation.

👉 Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

- Unexpected journey into transportation

- CDL Training Process at Boston CDL Driving School

- Job Placement and Industry Demand

- Future Trends in CDL Training

🚨 Episode Highlights:

Unexpected journey into transportation:Wilfredo transitioned from working in warehousing and logistics to leading Boston CDL Driving School, demonstrating the diverse career opportunities within the transportation sector.

CDL Training Process at Boston CDL Driving School:The school offers a comprehensive CDL training program, typically completed in four weeks, which includes theoretical learning and practical driving experience to prepare students for their commercial driver’s license.

Job Placement and Industry Demand: Boston CDL Driving School provides job placement support to its graduates, addressing the high demand for qualified CDL drivers and helping students secure employment in the transportation industry.

Future Trends in CDL Training:The school is integrating future trends such as electric vehicles, CNG, and CDL simulators into their training programs, enhancing the safety and efficiency of driver education and preparing students for the evolving transportation landscape.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

"Good to Great" by Jim Collins

"How to Be a Great Boss"

"Leadership" by John C. Maxwell

👉 To learn more about Boston CDL Driving School and stay in touch:

Phone Number: 857-990-1990

Website: bostoncdl.com

Address: 383 2nd Street, Everett, Massachusetts

🎧 About the Guest

Wilfredo Guzman is the Program Director of Boston CDL School, where he leads the initiative to train and certify new commercial drivers. With a career spanning over two decades in the transportation industry, Wilfredo began in warehousing and logistics before transitioning to trucking in 2009. His extensive experience includes roles in operations and safety management, culminating in his current position. At Boston CDL School, Wilfredo is dedicated to helping individuals obtain their CDL, thereby transforming their careers and addressing the industry's driver shortage. He is also focused on integrating new technologies and expanding partnerships to keep the school at the forefront of the transportation sector.

In this episode of "The Future of Grand Transportation," host Daniel interviews Lance Johnson, the Executive Director of Transportation and Fleet Services for Arlington Public School System. Lance shares insights into his 20-year journey in the transportation sector, discussing challenges such as driver shortages and innovative solutions like CDL training programs. They delve into the future of transportation, including the potential for AI technology, student ridership, and alternative vehicles like EVs and hydrogen buses. 👉 Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation: • Understanding the multifaceted role of school transportation directors • The importance of innovative recruitment and retention strategies • Future technological advancements in school transportation 🚨 Episode Highlights: Understanding the multifaceted role of school transportation directors: School transportation directors are responsible for overseeing all aspects of student transportation, including managing bus fleets, ensuring safety and compliance, coordinating schedules, and addressing logistical challenges. Their role requires strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to innovate and adapt to changing circumstances. The importance of innovative recruitment and retention strategies: Innovative strategies are crucial for attracting and retaining qualified school bus drivers. This includes offering competitive wages, benefits, and professional development opportunities, as well as implementing programs like CDL training to nurture talent and ensure a steady supply of skilled drivers. Future technological advancements in school transportation: Technological advancements, such as electric and hydrogen-powered buses, AI-driven safety systems, and student ridership tracking, are set to revolutionize school transportation. These innovations aim to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability, offering significant benefits to school districts and the communities they serve. 📚 Resources Mentioned: • 213 (Leadership book focusing on teamwork and communication) 🎧 About the Guest Lance Johns has been an influential figure in the Pupil Transportation industry since 2001, starting as a dedicated bus driver in Fairfax County, Virginia. Following his high school graduation in Fairfax County, he spent four years in this role before relocating to Marietta, Georgia. In Marietta, he diversified his skills, undertaking roles including Dispatcher and Trainer, contributing significantly to local transportation services for five years. In 2011, Lance accepted a supervisor position in Carroll County, Georgia, where he spent two years honing his leadership abilities. He then returned to Marietta, Georgia, where his career truly flourished. His rapid ascent in Marietta saw him holding various positions, such as Field Safety Coordinator and Special Needs Education Supervisor of Transportation. The pinnacle of Lance's career in Marietta came in 2017 with his promotion to Assistant Director of Transportation. In this role, he achieved several notable accomplishments, including securing civil awards for his district and pioneering new technologies such as the parent app for bus tracking and student ridership scan systems. During the pandemic in 2021 Lance's innovative work was featured on 60 Minutes, bringing national attention to his efforts. This exposure highlighted Lance's exemplary leadership during challenging times. In pursuit of being closer to his children, Lance returned to Fairfax County, Virginia, in 2021, where he served as Operations Manager for two and a half years. His dedication and expertise led him to his current role as Executive Director of Transportation and Fleet Service for Arlington Public Schools since July 2023. Lance's career is a testimony to his commitment to excellence and innovation in transportation, continually striving to enhance the safety and efficiency of Pupil Transportation services.

Welcome to another exciting episode of the ‘The Future of Ground Transportation’ podcast! In this episode, host Daniel Perez sits down with Hugh Reece, Program Manager at National Grid, to discuss the electrification of fleets and the innovative programs National Grid is implementing to support this transition. This episode explores National Grid's crucial role in promoting the adoption of EVs and aligning with Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy targets.

Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

• National Grid's role in supporting fleet electrification

• Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy goals

• Comprehensive fleet electrification programs

• Challenges and solutions in the transition to electric vehicles

• The importance of right-sizing infrastructure and leveraging expert advice

Episode Highlights:

National Grid's role in supporting fleet electrification:

Hugh Reece outlines how National Grid is spearheading initiatives to help Massachusetts achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The company offers various programs and incentives aimed at facilitating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across both public and private fleets.

Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy goals:

The state’s target is to have over 900,000 EVs on the road by 2035, with the ultimate goal of reaching 1.1 million EVs. Reece discusses how state policies and utility programs are essential to accelerating this transition.

Comprehensive fleet electrification programs:

National Grid offers a range of programs to support fleet electrification, including Fleet Advisory Services, Make Ready Programs, and Off-Peak Rebate Programs. These initiatives are designed to help fleet operators transition to electric vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenges and solutions in the transition to electric vehicles:

Reece discusses the high upfront costs of EVs and the necessary infrastructure, the need for specialized workforce training, and the current limitations in vehicle availability for different use cases. He emphasizes the importance of considering the long-term cost savings and total cost of ownership of EVs.

The importance of right-sizing infrastructure and leveraging expert advice:

Emphasizing the significance of tailoring the infrastructure to specific needs, Reece explains that over-sizing can lead to unnecessary expenses. He advocates for leveraging external expertise, such as the Fleet Advisory Services and MassCEC programs, to ensure organizations make informed decisions.

Resources Mentioned:

For more detailed information on National Grid’s EV programs and to connect with Hugh Reece for guidance, reach out via email at hugh.reece@nationalgrid.com.

About the Guest

Hugh Reece, is a Senior Program Manager dedicated to supporting National Grid's Fleet EV Programs in Massachusetts. Hugh is an accomplished professional with expertise in cleantech, program management, and enterprise client management.

Before joining National Grid, Hugh worked at Volta Charging, where he provided support to sales and operations teams. Prior to Volta Charging, he worked at Modivcare, managing a portfolio of enterprise clients; He also spent time at Enel (formerly EnerNOC), where he implemented both their suite of energy management services and Demand Response programs.

He resides in Medford MA with his wife and two children. Outside of work you’ll find him hanging with the family, mountain biking in the warmer months and in the winter months, skiing as much as he can.

Welcome to the latest episode of “The Future of Ground Transportation“ podcast where we dive into the future of ground transportation with special guest Anna Vanderspek from Green Energy Consumers Alliance. In this episode, Anna, the electrical vehicle program director, shares insights on the transition to a zero-carbon world and the Drive Green Programs that educate consumers about electric cars.

We discuss the barriers faced in the early stages of electric vehicle adoption, the changing landscape of costs, and the importance of infrastructure development. Anna also highlights various state and federal incentives available for fleet operators looking to electrify their vehicles.

Learn about the different types of charging, the benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles, and the impact of policies on the future of transportation. Anna also shares valuable resources and advice for those interested in making the switch to electric vehicles.

For more information on Green Energy Consumers Alliance and their programs, visit their website at greenenergyconsumers.org. Don't miss out on this informative episode that sheds light on the path to a sustainable future in ground transportation. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on upcoming episodes!

Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

· Overview of green electrification vehicles and clean transportation policy

· State-level programs and incentives for private fleet operators

· Utility bill incentives and off-peak charging rebates

· Maintenance cost savings with electric vehicles

· Impact of national and international policies on the market

· Future outlook and timeline for transitioning to electric vehicles

Resources Mentioned:

· Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg

To stay in touch with Anna Vanderspek, you can connect with him on LinkedIn. You can also reach out via email drivegreen@greenenergyconsumers.org

For more information on Green Energy Consumers Alliance and their programs, visit their website at greenenergyconsumers.org

About the Guest

Anna is the Electric Vehicle Program Director at Green Energy Consumers Alliance, a Massachusetts- and Rhode-Island-based nonprofit organization empowering consumers and communities to speed a just transition to a zero-carbon world. In that role, she manages the organization's Drive Green program, which educates consumers about electric cars and helps them make the switch, and advocates for smart clean transportation policy at the state level.

Join us on this episode of "The Future of Ground Transportation" as host Daniel Perez sits down with Howard Bornstein, President of CharterUp, to delve into how his company is changing the landscape of large group ground travel. Howard shares his journey from a background in venture capital to helping lead CharterUp, which has become the largest platform for large group travel. Discover how CharterUp raised $60 million in their first Series A and the innovative strategies they are implementing to disrupt the transportation industry.

Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

• Innovative Approach to Group Travel:

• Embracing Technology for Enhanced Service

• Navigating Consumer Expectations

• Future Trends and Market Adaptation

Episode Highlights:

Innovative Approach to Group Travel:

CharterUp has revolutionized the large group travel sector by creating a platform that simplifies and enhances the booking process for vehicles ranging from sprinters to 56-passenger charter buses. This platform serves as a crucial bridge between transportation bookers seeking reliable, cost-effective solutions and operators aiming to increase their fleet utilization and profitability.

Embracing Technology for Enhanced Service:

The integration of advanced technology and automation within CharterUp has significantly improved customer service, making booking and managing transportation effortless. Features like a sales bot, which enables booking a bus in under 60 seconds, and a comprehensive backend system to handle operational issues, set CharterUp apart in a traditionally manual industry.

Navigating Consumer Expectations:

Howard highlights the increasing demands of consumers who expect quick, responsive, and versatile service channels in all aspects of business, including ground transportation. CharterUp addresses these expectations by offering various contact points and ensuring high responsiveness, which is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Future Trends and Market Adaptation:

The conversation with Howard sheds light on emerging trends in transportation, such as electrification and the potential shift towards autonomous vehicles. While flying cars and autonomous buses may still be on the horizon, the immediate future includes increasing the adoption of electric vehicles. CharterUp is actively working to support operators in transitioning their fleets to meet these new technological standards and consumer preferences.

Resources Mentioned:

• "Turn the Ship Around" by L. David Marquet

• "Who" by Geoff Smart and Randy Street

• "Scaling Up" by Verne Harnish

To stay in touch with Howard Bornstein, you can connect with him on LinkedIn. You can also reach out via email howard@charterup.com.

About the Guest

Howard Bornstein, the President of CharterUP, is a dynamic figure in the world of venture investment, technology, and company building. Howard earned his MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business. He began his career at McKinsey & Company and later contributed to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. His prior investment experience includes working with companies such as SoFi, HomeLight, and FlyWire. His passion for innovation and disruption has played a pivotal role in CharterUP’s rapid rise.

Join us on "The Future of Ground Transportation" as host Daniel Perez dives deep into a conversation with Greg Moran, the trailblazer behind ZoomCar. Discover how this innovative platform is redefining urban mobility across emerging markets through a unique peer-to-peer car sharing model. From Greg's unconventional journey from Wall Street to launching ZoomCar, to the strategic focus on sustainability and electric vehicles, this episode unpacks the vision, challenges, and future of urban ground transportation. Learn about ZoomCar's commitment to enhancing accessibility, reducing carbon footprints, and empowering micro-entrepreneurs across India, Indonesia, and Egypt. Don't miss these insights into the evolving landscape of ground transportation, sustainability, and the role of technology in shaping the future of our cities.

Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

• Innovative Approach to Urban Mobility

• Peer-to-peer business model and its impact

• Strategic focus on emerging markets

• Sustainability and the integration of electric vehicles

Episode Highlights:

Innovative Approach to Urban Mobility:

Greg Moran founded ZoomCar to address the challenges of car sharing and rentals in emerging markets. With a focus on technology and sustainability, ZoomCar aims to transform urban mobility by creating a dynamic two-sided marketplace similar to Airbnb or Turo, but specifically tailored for markets like India, Indonesia, and Egypt.

Peer-to-Peer Business Model:

ZoomCar operates on a peer-to-peer marketplace model, where individual vehicle owners (hosts) can rent out their vehicles to others. This model encourages micro-entrepreneurship and does not involve ZoomCar owning vehicles directly, which differentiates it from traditional car rental services.

Focus on Emerging Markets:

Greg highlighted ZoomCar's strategic decision to operate in emerging markets, where there is a lower rate of car ownership and a higher demand for accessible transportation solutions. This focus allows ZoomCar to address a unique set of mobility needs, leveraging the lack of competition and the vast potential for market penetration in these regions.

Commitment to Sustainability:

Sustainability is a core ethos of ZoomCar, driving the company to integrate electric vehicle (EV) capabilities into its platform. By encouraging the inclusion of electric vehicles and building partnerships for EV infrastructure, ZoomCar aims to foster a more sustainable urban transportation ecosystem, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Resources Mentioned:

• “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz

To stay in touch with Greg Moran, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.

You can also reach out via website www.zoomcar.com or Zoom’s Linkedin.

About the Guest

As the Co-Founder and CEO of Zoomcar, Greg Moran spearheads the entire operation of the Bangalore-based self-drive car rental company, which is the leading marketplace for car sharing in emerging markets. Greg believes that sustainability is the most important issue for the next 100 years and has dedicated his entire career to sustainable development across the globe.

Moran is a seasoned thought leader who can speak broadly to mobility + transportation trends in emerging markets – the rise of ridesharing, offsetting carbon emissions and creating micro-entrepreneurs.

Prior to starting up Zoomcar, Moran has held positions in investment banking, private equity, corporate business development, and energy policy formulation with Fieldstone Private Capital Group, Cerberus Capital, International Power, and the City of New York respectively.