Women Who Move Nations - The Public Transport Podcast

In this episode of Women Who Move Nations, proudly sponsored by NEC, host Michelle Batsas sits down with Priya Dahiya, Solutions Architect at NEC Australia, to explore how smart transport technology is transforming passenger experiences and operational performance. Priya shares her journey from traditional IT services into the transport sector, revealing how a “lucky break” led her to a purpose-driven career in public transport. Together, they unpack the power of real-time passenger information (RTPI), integrated ticketing systems, AI-led automation, and inclusive mobility tech. Priya also speaks passionately about creating accessible systems for all users—including people with vision impairments, older passengers, and non-native English speakers—and explains how collaborative leadership plays a vital role in shaping innovative, human-centred solutions. Whether you're in transport, tech, or leadership, Priya's advice to "find what you love and do your best at it" is a must-hear message.

Join us on the Women Who Move Nations podcast's third episode as Sandra Witzel, Director and Chief Marketing Officer at SkedGo, shares her profound insights on creatingaccessible, inclusive, and sustainable transport solutions. In this episode, Sandra delves into her personal journey within the mobility sector, highlighting pivotal moments that reshaped her approach to leadership and advocacy. Discover how her lived experience as a disabled transport user fuelsher passion for mobility justice, ensuring transport systems cater to all, especially the most vulnerable. Don't miss this enlightening conversation hosted by Michelle Batsas, and proudly sponsored by NEC.

In the second episode of season 8's Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly produced by PTAANZ and sponsored by NEC Australia, host Michelle Batsas sits down with Michelle Cramer, Future Communities Leader for Australia at GHD. Michelle discusses her unconventional career path, starting with a choice to work on the 2000 Olympics public art strategy over a hospital project, and emphasises the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration and innovation. Michelle highlights the need for public transport to evolve with new technologies like new mobility classes and EV charging stations. She advocates for diversity of thought and storytelling as leadership tools, urging women to seize opportunities and align their careers with their values, stressing the importance of long-term societal progress and continuous learning

Welcome back to the Women Who Move Nations podcast with your host Michelle Batsas. In the first episode of season 8, proudly sponsored by NEC, we welcome Catherine Rinaldi, President Metro-North Railroad in New York.   The first MTA woman president, Catherine has been serving in this role since 2018 and ran the top two busiest commuter railroads in the US for over a year when the Long Island Railroad opened their new home at Grand Central Madison. PTAANZ is proud to launch the new season of the Women Who Move Nations podcast with Catherine Rinaldi. This episode is not just inspiring; it's also an insightful look into a storied career, and how to move and grow with change. Tune in to hear from season eight's first incredible woman moving nations.  

Aline Frantzen is the Chief Operating Officer at Metro Trains Melbourne. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC, Aline joins host Michelle Batsas, and dives deep into her rich international experience and her leadership in enhancing Melbourne's public transport. Aline shares insights from managing diverse transport networks across three continents and discusses challenges and innovations in urban mobility. From integrating advanced technologies to prioritising customer-centric strategies, discover how Aline's approach is shaping more efficient and inclusive transport services. A crucial conversation for those interested in the transformative impact of experienced leadership in public transportation.

Dr Dia Adhikari Smith is a leading research academic at the University of Queensland. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly sponsored by NEC, Dia talks to guest host and one of PTAANZ's Emerging Mobility Leaders, Caitlin Mowatt, about her significant contributions to the decarbonisation of transport through her extensive work with electric, hydrogen, and advanced biofuel technologies. Dia discusses the integration of renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies into public transport, offering insights into the future of low and zero-emission vehicles. Dia also shares her journey from electrical engineering to pioneering decarbonisation research, emphasising the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in driving sustainable transport solutions globally. A not-to-be-missed episode highlighting the strides women are making across the public transport industry for a more sustainable future.  

Trudi Mares is the Deputy Secretary at Transport for NSW. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly sponsored by NEC, Trudi talks to host Michelle Batsas about transformative changes in NSW transport. Trudi delves into enhancing network reliability to increase patronage, with a strong focus on equitable access. Trudi shares her pivotal transition from corporate affairs roles to spearheading strategic planning and public transport operations. Discover her innovative approach to integrating transport services with urban development and her proactive strategies for overcoming fiscal constraints and improving customer experiences. A not-to-be-missed dialogue for those passionate about the evolution of public transport systems. 

The Hon. Minister Williams MP is Victoria's Minister for Public Transport and Active Modes and shares her fascinating journey from practicing law to becoming a key political figure in Victoria, with host Michelle Batsas. With a remit that includes driving major public transport infrastructure initiatives, like the Metro Tunnel, she advocates daily for the needs of Victorians. This episode, proudly sponsored by NEC, delves into her decade in politics, the challenges of juggling leadership with her personal journey of starting a family, and her commitment to creating equitable and sustainable transport solutions. Minister Williams' personal stories and policy insights offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of governing and the dedication required to shape public policy. 

Cassie Hames is a programmer at SAGE Automation who has lived experienced as a professional with impaired vision. She discusses her role at SAGE with host, Michelle Batsas, including the development of the SeeMe app which enhances public transport accessibility for users with impaired vision, and shares her personal journey proving her detractors wrong by becoming a programmer in the face of discrimination and harassment. This episode explores the intersection of leadership, gender equality, and technological innovation, highlighting the vital importance of inclusive design. Tune in to discover how Cassie's lived experiences have driven her to champion changes that make public transport safer and more accessible for everyone. 

Stacey van der Putten is the Director Public Transport and Active Modes at Auckland Transport and a PTAANZ Board Director. A trailblazer in the transportation industry, Stacey delves into her journey of integrating private sector expertise into public transport with host Michelle Batsas, emphasising the significance of inclusive leadership and effective communication. Discover how Stacey's background has equipped her to tackle challenges and innovate within her field, particularly in creating safer and more inclusive environments for women in leadership roles. This episode is packed with actionable insights on fostering customer-centric solutions and supporting women's career growth. Tune in to hear Stacey's strategies for blending diverse experiences to lead change.

Michelle Sheppard is a Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at Victoria's Department of Transport and Planning. In her transparent and vulnerable conversation with host Michelle Batsas, Michelle details her personal and professional journey as a transgender woman in the transport industry. Reflecting on her own experiences struggling with identity and belonging, and feeling torn between men's and women's spaces, Michelle emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, particularly for marginalised groups, and how education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and support can demonstrate to young people that public transport can be an industry of choice for their future careers.  Tune in for an inspiring and courageous conversation on improving leadership by bringing your true self to work.  

Kylie Gorham is a Senior Product Manager at NEC Australia. In her interview with host Michelle Batsas, Kylie talks about the innovative edge of public transport. Listen as they unpack the impact of technology on operational intelligence and passenger experience. Kylie shares her career journey and insights, including the importance of travelling to different cities and experiencing the local transport networks first-hand to gain perspective on potential improvements. They discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing public safety and the flexibility required to address evolving transport needs. Tune in to gain insights into Kylie's leadership philosophy and her perspective on gender diversity in transport leadership roles.

This episode of PTAANZ's Women Who Move Nations podcast features Mel Barber, Managing Director at NEC New Zealand. Guest hosted by Rowan Selwood-Eyles, Public Transport Advisor at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader, Mel discusses her transformational leadership approach in the industry as she touches on public transport projects, community engagement, and the integration of technology like AI for enhancing public safety and accessibility. Explore insights on leadership practices, diversity in leadership roles, and the impact of mentorship. This episode provides a comprehensive look into improving public transportation in Wellington, and the broader implications of technology and leadership in the industry.

In the third episode of Season 7 of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC, your host Michelle Batsas welcomes Dr Nicole Kalms, Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Monash University XYX Lab. Dr Kalms shares her ground-breaking work on gender-inclusive urban design, diving into the challenges girls, women and gender-diverse individuals face within city design. Dr Kalms also shares how her team's research is shaping safer, more navigable cities. From responsive lighting to digital safety tools, the discussion illuminates practical strategies for transforming public spaces. Discover how engaging communities and leveraging technology can create more equitable urban environments.

In this episode of Women Who Move Nations proudly sponsored by NEC, Michelle Batsas interviews Ishra Baksh, Executive Director Strategic Insights and Transformation at Queensland's Department of Transport and Main Roads. Ishra and Michelle discuss the fusion of technology, diversity, and leadership in transforming transport and mobility, and Ishra shares reflections from her journey from graduate to Executive Director. The conversation also touches on the critical role of diversity and inclusion, Ishra's personal growth as a woman leader of colour, and the importance of authentic leadership styles. They explore strategies for increasing leadership diversity, the impact of transport on the cost of living, and the future of public transport in Queensland. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of transport, leadership, and the power of embracing diversity to drive positive change.

Welcome back to the Women Who Move Nations podcast with your host Michelle Batsas. In the first episode of season 7, proudly sponsored by NEC, we welcome Veronica O. Davis, a pioneering voice in public transport and author of "Inclusive Transportation – a Manifesto for repairing divided communities." Veronica discusses the essence of equitable transport systems and her mission to mend divided communities through better transport planning and community engagement. Her insights challenge us to rethink accessibility and advocate for change. Delve into a conversation that intersects innovation with action, uncovering how diverse leadership is vital in steering the future of public mobility. This episode is not just a dialogue; it's a call to all for creating an inclusive, connected society. Tune in for an empowering session that drives home the need for equality in every lane of our transport networks.

Join us for this milestone episode of the PTAANZ Women Who Move Nations podcast! This is episode 50 and we've been lucky enough to talk to Natalie Reiter, Deputy Secretary of Strategy and Precincts at the Department of Transport and Planning. Natalie shares her invaluable insights on the future of public transport, emphasising the need to increase accessibility and reduce car ownership. Discover her unique journey in transportation planning and leadership, shaped by her experiences in private consulting. Uncover the secrets of leadership growth and challenging traditional hierarchies, as Natalie encourages listeners to embrace paradigm shifts for professional success. Explore the crucial topics of change management, communication, and leadership with practical advice on navigating career challenges and the importance of networking. Join the conversation on work-life balance and gender dynamics, where Natalie candidly addresses discrimination and highlights the ongoing battle against gender bias.In a powerful segment on career advice, host Michelle Batsas and Natalie share their dreams and offer inspiring guidance on making the most of every experience. This is a must listen!

Natasha Zulkfili is a globally recognised change-maker in the public transport sector. Her inspiring career includes studying in Kuala Lumpur, New Zealand and London, extensive experience in Malaysian public transport, running the Malaysia-Europe Forum (MEF) and representing Malaysia on USAID and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) initiatives. She is currently a Director at YTL Construction, part of the project team that is building the new 192km electrified double track rail link for the Malaysian Government in the state of Johor. In 2017 Natasha founded Women in Rail Malaysia, a not-for-profit entity that supports and promotes equality and diversity within the Malaysian rail industry, which will host their next conference in Kuala Lumpur on 3 August 2023.

Get to know PTAANZ's new Chief Executive, Lauren Streifer, in her inspiring interview with Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning and a PTAANZ Ambassador. Lauren has built an incredible career by getting to know as many people as possible, creating a diverse network of mentors and taking every opportunity she can. Lauren also shares her passion for public transport, especially big infrastructure projects and the legacy of investment decisions made now for future generations. Hear how Lauren is breaking down gender barriers, managing executive life and preparing to have a baby. As Lauren says, “You can be a leader, be a woman, have a baby and work it out”!

Joanne (Jo) McDonald is the Chief Legal and Risk Officer at Kelsian Group, Australia's largest integrated multi-modal transport provider and tourism operator, which also has bus operations in Singapore, London and the Channel Islands. Jo shares unmissable advice on developing strategic influencing and management skills, how she has built a sustainable career and key lessons she's learnt along the way. Jo emphasises that for her, working in public transport is so satisfying because it's connected with people's everyday lives, it involves systems and is purpose driven. Tune in now to hear Jo's interview with Jamie-Lee Owen, a PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader and Passenger Experience Lead for the Level Crossing Removal Project at Metro Trains Melbourne.

Katarzyna (Kat) Stapleton is the Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Rail, the integrated customer and rail infrastructure business that manages Queensland's railways and train services. Kat has an inspiring discussion with Sally Stannard, PTAANZ Chair and Deputy Director-General (Translink) at the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads. Kat shares insights on her diverse role that involves being an ambidextrous rail operator, focusing on the local croquet club, the economy, community connectivity and working to eradicate gendered violence. Kat also takes us on her professional journey from starting her career in the Canadian Navy, to joining telecommunications in the 1990s and early 2000s, when that sector was going through a fascinating period of change driven by fast-evolving technology, to ending up in rail where she believes there's no better place to work.

Stephanie Speck is the Chief Communications and Experience Officer at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning. In her interview with Judith Sturman, Executive Group Manager of Transport Canberra and a PTAANZ Board Director, Stephanie talks about her incredible career spanning 23 countries and what excites her about her current role. Stephanie shares how compelling she finds the complexity and future focus of the public transport sector and her appreciation for working with committed, passionate experts. Stephanie also has fantastic, actionable advice for professionals in any industry looking to develop strategic thinking and leadership skills.

Alana Newbrook is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of SYSTRA ANZ. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, Alana shares how she's harnessing SYSTRA's global insights and applying them to Australia and New Zealand's public transport sector. Alana discusses her passion for delivering city-shaping and life-changing projects, relishing how her role allows her to make tangible contributions to creating more equitable communities. Alana also shares insights into how she fosters innovation in her organisation and how she's navigated her career and parenthood.

The Hon Catherine King is Australia's Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government and the first woman to hold the transport portfolio at the national government level. In her interview with member host Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport, Minister King shares insights on Australia's fast rail future, reflections on her 20-year political career and advice for aspiring politicians and policymakers.

Samantha Gain is Kaiwhakahaere Matua Metlink / General Manager of Metlink, the public transport agency for Greater Wellington Regional Council in New Zealand. She is interviewed by guest host Sally Stannard, Deputy Director-General (Translink) at Queensland's Department of Transport and Main Roads and Vice Chair of PTAANZ's Board of Directors. Sam trained as a lawyer and loves the legal complexities of delivering public transport services and projects, as well as the diverse range of people she gets to work with and the community service it provides. Sam also shares fun and actionable advice about leadership and building the career you want.

Crissy Ditmore is the Head of Public Policy, North America at Optibus, an end-to-end software platform for more equitable, sustainable, and efficient transport services. In her interview with member guest host Katie Cooper, Chief Executive Officer of Metro Tasmania and a PTAANZ Board Director, Crissy shares inspiring insights into how technology and data can be used to create more equitable, accessible public transport networks. Crissy also shares her exciting career journey that started with using public transport all over the world while travelling as a performer, to becoming an industry thought leader renowned for her dedication to leveraging technology for the public good. Don't miss Crissy's empowering advice on building supportive professional relationships and making sure you and your organisation are prepared for the unexpected.

Judith Sturman is the Executive Group Manager of Transport Canberra and a Board Director for the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ). In her interview with Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport, Judith analyses and shares lessons from her 30-year public transport career, which started in the United Kingdom and led her to Australia where she has worked in Sydney, Melbourne and now Canberra. Judith highlights her excitement for how zero emissions vehicles are changing transport for the better and gives empowering insights into her professional successes and leadership style.

Bonnie Crawford is the General Manager and Vice President of Umo Mobility, part of Cubic Transportation Systems. She is interviewed by guest host Sally Stannard, Deputy Director-General (Translink), Department of Transport and Main Roads, Queensland and Vice Chair of the PTAANZ Board of Directors. Bonnie shares her professional journey from the mailroom to the boardroom by getting a variety of experiences early in her career, then becoming more intentional mid-career to put herself on a leadership pathway and ending up in a sector she loves. Like many women in public transport, Bonnie is inspired by the positive impact her work has on the community. She's passionate about using software and technology transformation to create connections and access for riders from every walk of life.

Sue Chan is currently acting as Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ). Her education and career have spanned across Asia-Pacific and Australia and she has worked with stakeholders worldwide. In her podcast interview with guest host Tabitha Carr, Marketing Specialist at Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus and a PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader, Sue shares inspiring insights from her professional journey, how she transitioned from a career in admin and finance to transport planning and consulting and advanced her career by taking risks and achieving strategic outcomes. Sue encourages women to believe in themselves, stay positive and keep learning and explains why you shouldn't be afraid to fail.

Samantha Abeydeera is the Executive Director of Strategic Operations at Transport for NSW, one of Australia's largest transport authorities. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Sam shares unmissable insights into how she's proven herself with outstanding results and become a champion for diversity in the sector. Be empowered by Sam's advice on how you can use your unique selling proposition to overcome barriers and build the career of your dreams.

Laura Shoaf is the Chief Executive of the West Midlands Combined Authority in the United Kingdom (UK). Laura is also Chair of the Urban Transport Group, the UK's network of city region transport authorities and she previously led Transport for West Midlands. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand, Laura shares a range of valuable insights into getting passengers back on to public transport as we recover from Covid, the upcoming 2022 Commonwealth Games to be hosted in Birmingham UK, and how she leads as her authentic self. Be inspired by Laura's passion for the sector which stems from her belief that public transport is social justice.

Sally Stannard is a Deputy Director-General at the Department of Transport and Main Roads in Queensland and the head of Translink. Sally is also Vice-Chair of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ)'s Board of Directors. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, Chief Executive Officer of PTAANZ, Sally shares professional and personal stories that paint an exciting picture of her career journey. Sally gives generous insights into what a typical week involves as she leads a team of over 600 people across Queensland who manage the state's public transport operators, infrastructure investment and delivery, service planning and more. Sally also talks about the state's exciting aspirations for a car-free Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032.

Hiba Farès is the Chief Executive Officer of RATP Dev, the global arm of RATP Group, the world's third-largest public transport operator. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Hiba shares insights into her passion for public transport and customer experience. Hiba is proud to work in a sector that has such a positive impact on the environment and the communities her company operates in. Hiba also gives empowering advice on negotiating and how to land your next promotion.

Dr Gillian Miles is the Chief Executive Officer and Commissioner of the National Transport Commission (NTC), Australia's lead agency for national land transport reform to support all Australian governments to improve safety, productivity, environmental outcomes and regulatory efficiency. Gill's impressive career includes three decades as a senior executive in the public sector at the national, state and local government levels, with a particular focus on transport and community-focused services. Gill is passionate about improving diversity in Australia's land transport workforce and is collaborating with other female leaders in the sector to drive change through the National Women in Transport initiative. She shares insights into all this and more in her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ).

Dr Deborah Hume is the National Manager of Multimodal and Innovation at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, the government organisation responsible for investing in, managing and regulating New Zealand's land transport system. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Deb shares unmissable insights for anyone interested in a career in public transport (especially in New Zealand) including how public transport fits in to the New Zealand Government's emissions reduction targets and how Waka Kotahi's role has evolved in the past decade. Deb also shares her career journey and what she learnt from her most challenging yet rewarding role and the value of adding breadth to your professional experience.

Polly Trottenberg is Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation. Polly joins host Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), for a comprehensive conversation ranging from the relationship between transportation and the political process to education, equity and leadership. Polly also highlights the significance of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which has the potential to transform transport infrastructure, safety, sustainability and equity across the United States.

Join this heartfelt discussion between four women leading Australia and New Zealand's peak transport associations: Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Caroline Wilkie, Chief Executive Officer of the Australasian Railway Association, Susan Harris, Chief Executive Officer of ITS Australia and Roz Chivers, Executive Director of the Bus Industry Confederation. Hear their insights on leadership, work/life balance and creating a future of sustainable mobility for all.

Laura Hendricks is Chief Executive Officer of Transdev USA, where she oversees the operation of public transport systems in 200 cities and towns across the United States and is responsible for almost 13,000 team members across the organisation. Laura joins guest host Angé Anczewska, former General Manager of UITPANZ, to talk about the transition to zero emissions public transport, innovation and technology including the importance of on-demand and microtransit. Laura also explains her people-focused leadership style and her purpose of working in public transport to contribute to the common good. She believes public transport is an excellent choice for women who want a meaningful career.

Katie Cooper has been Head of Transformation at Melbourne Airport, Head of Security at London Stanstead Airport and now she's Chief Executive Officer of Metro Tasmania. Katie is also a member of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ)'s Board of Directors. Katie joins guest host Angé Anczewska, former General Manager of UITPANZ to discuss her vision for public transport to be part of the solution to big challenges facing society including sustainability and traffic congestion. Katie also shares plenty of actionable career advice including setting goals, building your network and overcoming imposter syndrome.

Helen Williams, the Executive General Manager of Specialty Engineering at SYSTRA Scott Lister joins guest host Angé Anczewska, the former General Manager of UITPANZ, for an empowering discussion about Helen's exciting and varied career in engineering. Helen shares insights from her professional journey including her top tips on leadership, career progression and how we can attract and retain more female leaders in public transport and STEM professions.

Mayurie Gunatilaka, Group Leader NZ at Arup joins host Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), for a thought-provoking discussion about the challenges and opportunities facing the public transport sector right now. Mayurie's national pride and values-driven career will inspire you as she shares how important public transport and sustainable mobility will be to New Zealand and the world's future. Mayurie also urges listeners to make career decisions that align with their values, which is how Mayurie has navigated her own professional journey.

In another bonus episode, Women Who Move Nations joins forces with threesixtyCITY, a podcast by NewCities that delves into the future of urban life. Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), interviews Laura Chace, the Chief Executive Officer of ITS America and co-founder of MobilityXX. Laura and Michelle have a passionate discussion on how making public transport organisations more inclusive for women will deliver better transport and social outcomes for the whole of society. Laura also shares how your organisation can take the MobilityXX Pledge.

Stephanie Wiggins, Chief Executive Officer of LA Metro joins Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), for an inspiring discussion covering Stephanie's broad range of initiatives including putting customers at the centre of LA Metro's pandemic recovery, preparing for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and her transformative leadership style. Listen now to find out about these and the many other ways Stephanie is making LA Metro people's first choice for transport.

In this bonus episode, Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ) and host of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, joins Transit Unplugged, the podcast hosted by Paul Comfort, the Chief Customer Officer at Trapeze Group, for a discussion about women in transport with Samantha Abeydeera, Executive Director Strategic Operations at Transport for NSW, Catherine Baxter, Chief Operating Officer at Metro Trains Melbourne and Magda Robertson, General Manager of Torrens Connect in Adelaide.

Natasha Santha, Partner at L.E.K. Consulting, joins Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), for an exciting discussion about decarbonisation and automation in public transport and the positive impacts these technologies will have on society. Natasha also shares the lessons she's learnt over the years about leadership, finding your strengths and paying it forward to help other women succeed.

In this bonus episode of Women Who Move Nations, host Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), becomes the interviewee, as Magda Robertson, General Manager of Torrens Connect in Adelaide, finds out why Michelle loves being part of the public transport sector and what's top of mind for her right now. Michelle also shares some secrets to her success, including her leadership style, how she overcomes imposter syndrome and her passion for empowering other women.

Magda Robertson is the General Manager of Torrens Connect where she oversees Adelaide's tram network and surrounding bus network. In her discussion with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Magda shares insights from her extensive operations experience in major transport networks including Metro Trains Melbourne and Sydney Trains. She applied that experience to ensure the smooth transition of Adelaide's public transport services from public to private operations. In terms of career progression, be empowered by Magda's advice to “Be fierce and negotiate because you're worth it!”

Laurence Batlle is Chairwoman of the Executive Board at RATP Dev, the international development arm of urban public transport operator RATP Group. In this role, Laurence oversees RATP Dev's 110 bus, metro, tram, railway, e-scooter and waterborne operations across 13 countries globally. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Laurance shares insights from RATP Dev's at-scale zero emissions bus (ZEB) operation in Paris, where their fleet of over 4,700 buses will be 100 per cent powered by clean energy by 2025 (including two-thirds electric and one-third biogas vehicles). They've also become London's leading ZEB operator. Laurence is passionate about making public transport services work for women, as well as being a great industry for women to work in. "We have to ensure public transport is designed by women and for women, not only by and for men".

Lara Poloni is the President of global infrastructure consulting firm, AECOM. Lara shares insights with host Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), from her extensive experience working on major transport infrastructure projects all over the world. Her love of cities and desire to make them functional, sustainable and liveable, drives her passion for public transport and sustainable mobility. Lara has worked her way to the top by confronting unconscious bias and taking charge of her career and she encourages other women to do the same.

Lauren Skiver is CEO and General Manager of SunLine Transit, a bus operator in California's Coachella Valley and a world-leader in decarbonising heavy vehicles. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), Lauren shares how she's putting her organisation at the forefront of the huge transformation agenda facing the public transport and mobility industry. She also shares stellar advice about how, as a professional female, she overcomes imposter syndrome and finds the courage to ask for a raise. A must-listen for any woman in public transport who aspires to become a senior executive too!

Julie Mitchell, the Deputy Director General of Policy, Planning and Investment at Queensland's Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), is passionate about innovation in public transport. Julie shares her vision and drive for shaping the best possible public transport services for Queensland now and into the future, which she says will involve complex transformation on an unprecedented scale. Julie has had an illustrious career at TMR, starting as a graduate and rising through the ranks. Before becoming Deputy Director General, she was Chief Engineer, TMR's highest engineering position. The key to her success, Julie tells host Michelle Batsas, the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Transport Association Australia New Zealand (PTAANZ), is always seeking opportunities to grow and develop professionally.