2. Transportation: Did Something Go Wrong?

01/23/24 • 59 min

As the hum of Atlanta's traffic weaves a story of infrastructure and societal evolution, our latest conversation invites you into the living history of a city's love affair with transportation. We lay tracks through the personal and the communal, sharing tales that are often overshadowed by the roar of engines—like the legacy of my own family's Pullman Porters and how these railroading pioneers laid the foundations for our economic growth. Dr. Chris Wyczalkowski from MARTA steps aboard to unravel the systemic challenges preventing Atlanta from fully embracing public transit, dissecting the complex intersections of race, city culture, and the stigmas that linger around bus and train travel.
Our journey continues as we navigate the societal impact of Atlanta's transit decisions, from the erection of neighborhood barricades against integration to the suburban sprawl that followed. We turn the spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the wheel, like Coy Dumas, with over two million miles of untarnished driving record, whose personal stories of perseverance remind us that public transit is more than just a mode of travel—it's the pulse of our communities. These narratives take us down memory lane, reflecting on the profound changes within Atlanta's landscape, from the Lakewood Assembly plant era to the present day, and how every turn of the wheel has left its mark on the city's soul.
Wrapping up our expedition, we celebrate the enduring spirit of Atlanta's public service workers through the story of a top-ranked transit operator, whose dedication and discipline exemplify the qualities of success in this field. We examine the pivotal role of public transportation in urban resilience, pondering the varied needs of city dwellers and suburbanites alike. With heartfelt anecdotes and critical insights, this episode is a testament to the hardworking individuals who keep Atlanta moving and a call to action for a more connected and equitable future on the roads and rails of this storied city.

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1. Affordability: Am I In The Right Place?

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Like the boy Leland Wayne, metro Atlanta's population is booming. But as our city grows, so does the challenge of keeping it affordable. Is Atlanta becoming a place where its current citizens can no longer live?
As the shadow of high-rises extends over Atlanta, I find myself grappling with the memory of my grandmother's recent passing—a profound loss that echoes the complex narratives built from the people before us. See, she was the one (along with my grandfather, who settled my maternal family into this city. Our heartfelt discussion casts a light on the stark contrasts defining a city celebrated as a black mecca, yet marred by economic disparities and gentrification that upend the dreams of homeownership for many.
This episode is a heartfelt dive into what it means to live amidst a landscape where median home prices soar and income growth lags, and where the vibrant culture of hip hop and comfort food joints offers a balm for the soul. Your ears won't want to miss the cultural pulse of the city, as described by local writer and vibe curator Jeney Barlow, who joins us to celebrate the places and beats that give Atlanta its unique rhythm.
As we wrap up, we turn to practicality, sharing survival tips and resources for those squeezed by the affordability crisis. I'll walk you through leveraging assistance programs, refinancing strategies, and SBA lending, guiding you toward economic respite and empowerment. Finally, we reflect on the profound social impacts of rising costs on community engagement and mental well-being. This journey through Atlanta isn't just about the numbers—it's an intimate portrait of resilience and connection, where every story and every struggle is an opportunity to learn and grow together.

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3. Variable Edition: Literacy Quest for Atlanta's Youth, New Era in Mercedes-Benz and Salute to Atlanta Icons

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Dive into an enlightening conversation with Atlanta-born educators Zettler Clay and Shaka Bailey, who bring their passion for academic excellence to our discussion on educational mastery. Bailey, wielding his 'superpower' as an African American male teacher, shares invaluable strategies for guiding students to 100% mastery in their learning. We tackle the obstacles in achieving grade-level competencies, especially in critical areas like reading and math, and consider how respect, knowledge, and motivational scaffolding can reshape the educational experience.
As we close this episode, the host gives a toast to his late father, whose wisdom and legacy inspire daily. With gratitude for the episode's contributors and a nod to the transformative power of literacy, I invite you to join the mission to nurture a generation of avid readers. From personal practices to fostering direct communication with children, to the simple yet powerful act of book donation, we can all play a role in creating a brighter future.

The Atlanta Formula - 2. Transportation: Did Something Go Wrong?

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.239

Transit , unfortunately , is looked at as a second-hand mode of transportation . Right , it's not for me , it's for the lower-income people . It's how it's viewed . I remember one time somebody told me a story where

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they got off a bus in their neighborhood

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and the neighbor came up to them an