Women Who Move Nations - The Public Transport Podcast

Our ninth and final episode for season 8 of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC Australia, features Heidi Lee, CEO at Beyond Zero Emissions. Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE) is one of Australia’s most impactful climate think tanks. In conversation with host, Michelle Batsas, Heidi shares how BZE is unlocking large-scale decarbonisation through place-based strategies, clean industry innovation, and coordinated national planning. With two decades of experience in sustainable design, Heidi talks systems thinking, regional transformation, and what public transport must do to be part of Australia’s clean economy. “When women lead climate action, we don’t just change emissions, we change outcomes for communities.” She also reflects on her own leadership style, the importance of mentoring emerging voices, and why representation in infrastructure and energy matters more than ever. Listen to hear how storytelling, advocacy, and design come together in the race to decarbonise, and the role transport must play in getting us there.

In this episode, Trisha Fridrich - Vice President Marketing and Communications at All Aboard America Holdings, a member of the Kelsian Group, joins PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader Allyssa Lecap to share her powerful journey from grassroots advocacy to executive leadership. A champion for efficiency, equity, and innovation, in this episode proudly sponsored by NEC, Trisha talks candidly about rebuilding the motor coach industry through COVID-19, advocating for $2B in relief funding, and launching inclusive driver pathways like the “Road to 100K.” “Transportation isn’t rocket science but it does take grit, integrity, and a whole lot of heart.” From small business ownership to transforming one of the US’s largest coach networks, Trisha’s story is a must-hear for anyone navigating change, leadership, and impact in public transport.

What does it look like to lead with purpose, build a dream team, and reshape a city’s future—all before 40? In this episode of Women Who Move Nations, we meet Zoe Maher, Senior Principal and WA Strategic Rail Planning Lead at WSP. Proudly sponsored by NEC, in conversation with host Michelle Batsas, Zoe shares how two serendipitous career moments—one over office drinks—ignited her passion for public transport planning and ultimately led her to create and lead a powerhouse team focused on equitable, sustainable mobility. From managing a team of 100 on the Morley–Ellenbrook rail project to founding Empower Hour to uplift women in engineering, Zoe’s story is as practical as it is inspiring. “There will literally be thousands of people who’ll get an extra hour with their families every night—because of something we scribbled on a whiteboard.” Tune in for real talk on impact, equity, leadership, and why saying “yes” early in your career can change everything.

In this inspiring episode of Women Who Move Nations proudly sponsored by NEC Australia, host Michelle Bats speaks with Louise McCormick, CEO of the Department of Infrastructure and Logistics in the Northern Territory. Louise shares her remarkable journey from a bridge engineer in Queensland to one of the nation’s most influential public transport leaders. She offers candid reflections on leading large-scale reform in a geographically vast and culturally rich region, from upgrading unsealed roads and supporting remote Aboriginal communities to enhancing urban and remote bus services. Louise also dives into the critical role of soft skills in leadership, the power of mentorship, and how to build meaningful cross-border networks. Her passion for improving access and equity in mobility—especially for women and regional populations—is a powerful takeaway for all listeners. Whether you’re interested in public transport, infrastructure, or inclusive leadership, this conversation will leave you motivated to embrace opportunity and lead with authenticity.

In this episode of Women Who Move Nations, host Michelle Batsas chats with Tithi Roy, Solutions Architect at NEC, about her unique career journey and the innovations she's leading in the smart transport space. Tithi shares how her background in GIS and technical roles transitioned into customer-facing positions, leading her to a pivotal role in transport technology. She discusses the growing impact of AI in public transport, particularly in enhancing safety, efficiency, and customer experience. Tithi also offers valuable insights into the power of mentorship, the importance of believing in your potential, and how women can thrive in male-dominated industries. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming challenges, driving change, and empowering women in transport.

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 See Me 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.