SMARTcast

🚍🏁 SMARTcast | From the Gridiron to the Racetrack: Julius Curry's Drive to Change Detroit

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:05:23 -0300

What happens when a former University of Michigan football standout trades shoulder pads for race cars—and uses motorsports to inspire the next generation? On this special episode of SMARTcast, host Paul Johnson III sits down with Detroit native, former NFL defensive back Julius Curry, founder and CEO of Curry Motorsports, on the eve of the Detroit Grand Prix for an unforgettable conversation about speed, innovation, leadership, and creating opportunities through mobility. Julius shares his incredible journey from starring on the football field at the University of Michigan and playing professionally in the NFL to building one of Detroit's most exciting motorsports organizations. Through Curry Motorsports, he's opening doors for young people by introducing them to careers in racing, engineering, marketing, media production, and STEM—proving that motorsports is about much more than crossing the finish line. It's about building futures. His organization has become a powerful force for youth development, combining mentorship with hands-on experiences that expose students to careers throughout the racing industry. Paul and Julius also explore why Detroit remains one of the world's premier mobility capitals, how events like the Detroit Grand Prix energize the region, and why accessible transportation—including public transit—plays a vital role in connecting people to opportunity, education, entertainment, and major events throughout Southeast Michigan. Whether you're a racing enthusiast, football fan, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about Detroit's future, this episode is packed with inspiration, hometown pride, and valuable insight into how mobility continues to transform lives. 🚌 In this episode you'll discover: • Julius Curry's transition from Michigan football and the NFL to motorsports • The vision behind Curry Motorsports • How motorsports creates careers beyond driving • The importance of mentorship and youth development • Detroit's role as a global leader in mobility innovation • How SMART helps connect communities to major events like the Detroit Grand Prix and opportunities across Metro Detroit 🚍 SMARTcast is your stop for everything transit across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties, bringing you conversations with the people, partners, and innovators moving Southeast Michigan forward. 👍 Like • 💬 Comment • 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes featuring the people shaping the future of mobility.

#SMARTcast #SMARTBus #JuliusCurry #CurryMotorsports #DetroitGrandPrix #Detroit #Mobility #Transit #PublicTransportation #Michigan #UniversityOfMichigan #NFL #STEM #YouthMentorship #Innovation #Motorsports #DetroitBusiness #Transportation #WayneCounty #MacombCounty #OaklandCounty

SMART's Future: New Routes & Wayne County Expansion with VP Jordan Vonzynda

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:14:48 -0300

🚍 SMARTCAST | Featuring VP of Planning Jordan Vonzynda | New Routes, Wayne County Expansion & The Future of Transit Your Stop for Everything Transit in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne County! On this episode of SMARTcast, hosts Jordan Irving and Paul Johnson III sit down with SMART Vice President of Planning, Jordan Vonzynda, to discuss how public transportation is evolving and what riders can expect as SMART continues to expand service throughout Southeast Michigan. As VP of Planning, Vonzynda plays a key role in shaping the future of mobility, overseeing route planning, service improvements, and long-term strategies designed to better connect communities across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. In this conversation, he shares insight into the process behind developing new routes and explains how SMART is working to meet the changing transportation needs of residents. The discussion also highlights exciting route extensions and service enhancements coming to Wayne County, helping improve access to jobs, healthcare, education, and recreation. With increased connectivity and a focus on meeting riders where they are, SMART continues its mission of providing reliable, accessible transportation for the region. Jordan also discusses the upcoming Wayne County "opt-in" ballot initiative, a proposal that would allow additional communities to participate in SMART service and expand public transit opportunities throughout Wayne County. If approved, the initiative could help create stronger regional connections and bring enhanced transit access to more residents than ever before. Topics include: 🚌 Jordan Vonzynda's role as SMART Vice President of Planning 🚌 How transit routes are developed and improved 🚌 New and expanded routes in Wayne County 🚌 The future of public transportation in Southeast Michigan 🚌 The Wayne County opt-in ballot initiative 🚌 Regional mobility and economic development 🚌 Connecting riders to jobs, healthcare, and education 🚌 How SMART is planning for the future At SMART, a bus is more than just a bus—it's a connection to opportunity, independence, and community. Subscribe and stay connected for more conversations with the people moving Southeast Michigan forward. #SMARTcast #SMARTBus #JordanVonzynda #WayneCounty #PublicTransit #TransitPlanning #Transportation #Detroit #OaklandCounty #MacombCounty #WayneCountyTransit #Mobility #TransitExpansion #RegionalTransit #BusRoutes #EconomicDevelopment #CommunityConnection #SoutheastMichigan #SMART

When the Bus Doesn’t Come, Everything Falls Apart | Transit & Mental Health

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0300

Access isn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B—it’s about dignity, stability, and survival.

On this powerful episode of SMARTcast, host Paul Johnson III brings together two leaders at the intersection of transit and mental health: Danny Whitehouse, VP of Paratransit at SMART, and James White, CEO of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN). Together, they unpack the critical role that reliable, accessible public transportation plays for individuals navigating mental health challenges across Wayne County and beyond.

From missed appointments to missed opportunities, the conversation dives into how inconsistent transit can directly impact mental health outcomes—and how paratransit services, community partnerships, and forward-thinking leadership are working to close those gaps.

This isn’t just a transit conversation—it’s a human one.

If you care about public transportation, mental health advocacy, accessibility, and community impact, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

🎙️ Topics include:

The connection between mental health services and public transit
Why dependable paratransit is essential for vulnerable populations
How SMART and DWIHN are collaborating to improve outcomes
Breaking barriers to access in Southeast Michigan communities
The future of equitable mobility solutions

Tap in, because when transit works—people have a chance to thrive.

#SMARTcast #PublicTransit #MentalHealthAwareness #Paratransit #DWIHN #SMARTBus #Detroit #WayneCounty #AccessibilityMatters #TransitEquity #CommunityImpact

Recognizing Granville T. Woods : David L. Head Talks About His Award-Winning Documentary

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0400

In this powerful episode of SMARTcast, we sit down with David L. Head, a former MTA Bus Operator in New York City who has transformed his frontline transit experience into a lifelong mission of education, preservation, and recognition.

David L. Head is a historian, author, and Telly Award-winning documentarian, widely known for his groundbreaking work honoring Granville T. Woods, often referred to as the Black Edison. Through meticulous research, storytelling, and advocacy, Head has brought renewed attention to Woods’ critical contributions to Black history, electrical innovation, and public transit systems.

📘🎥 In this SMARTcast conversation, Head discusses:
👉 His journey from MTA bus operator to historian and filmmaker
👉 Why Granville T. Woods’ legacy matters to transit professionals today
👉 The research behind his book and award-winning documentary
👉 How transit history and Black innovation are deeply interconnected
👉 His ongoing mission to educate, preserve, and inspire future generations

This episode is a reminder that transit is more than buses and rail—it’s innovation, equity, and untold stories that deserve to be heard. SMARTcast continues its commitment to elevating voices that shape the past, present, and future of public transportation.

🎧 Tune in to learn how history moves us forward.

🔔 Subscribe to SMARTcast for conversations at the intersection of transit, community, innovation, and impact.

#SMARTcast #DavidLHead #GranvilleTWoods #BlackEdison #TransitHistory #PublicTransportation #BlackHistory #TransitInnovation #TellyAward

Public Transit Meets Mental Health Access | SMARTcast Ep. Feat. Tiffany J. Gunter & James White

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 23:01:05 -0400

🚍🧠 Public Transit Meets Mental Health Access | SMARTcast Episode Featuring Tiffany J. Gunter & James White Public transportation is more than buses and routes — it’s a lifeline connecting communities to healthcare, opportunity, and stability. In this powerful episode of SMARTcast, host Paul Johnson III leads an important conversation exploring how public transit and mental health services work together to support residents across Wayne County, Michigan. Joining the discussion are two influential leaders shaping regional access and community wellness: 🔹 Tiffany J. Gunter – CEO of SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) 🔹 James White – CEO of DWIHN (Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network) Together, they break down how reliable public transportation helps remove barriers to mental health treatment, strengthens community outreach, and improves quality of life for residents who rely on transit to reach critical services. 🎙️ In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ The role of public transit in expanding mental health access in Wayne County

✅ How SMART transportation services help riders reach behavioral health appointments and support programs

✅ The growing partnership between transit agencies and healthcare networks

✅ Real-world challenges facing transit-dependent communities ✅ How collaboration between SMART and DWIHN improves community wellness, accessibility, and equity

✅ The future of transit-driven healthcare solutions in Southeast Michigan

🌎 Why This Conversation Matters Thousands of Wayne County residents rely on public transportation to reach therapy, counseling, crisis services, and wellness programs. Without accessible transit, many individuals face delayed care or missed appointments. This episode highlights how transportation equity directly impacts healthcare outcomes, particularly in underserved communities.

🚍 About SMART The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides essential public transit services throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties, connecting riders to employment, education, healthcare, and daily necessities.

🧠 About DWIHN The Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) provides comprehensive mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services to eligible residents throughout Wayne County.

📍 Serving Southeast Michigan Communities This episode focuses on the vital connection between transportation and healthcare across: Wayne County • Detroit • Dearborn • Livonia • Southfield • Downriver Communities • Metro Detroit Region 👍 Don’t Forget To:

✔️ Like

✔️ Comment

✔️ Subscribe for more conversations about public transit innovation, regional mobility, and community impact

🔔 Follow SMART For Updates:

🌐 Website:

@ 📸 Instagram: @smartmovesus

🗣️ Join The Conversation How has public transit impacted your access to healthcare or essential services? Share your experience in the comments.

#SMARTBus #SMARTcast #PublicTransit #WayneCountyMichigan #DetroitTransit #MentalHealthAccess #DWIHN #HealthcareEquity #TransitEquity #MetroDetroit #BehavioralHealth #CommunityWellness #TransportationMatters #DetroitHealthcare #AccessibleTransit #PublicTransportation #TransitAndHealth #MichiganTransit

Looking Forward to a Flavorful Year : SMARTCAST Drops Its First Episode of 2026

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 22:52:57 -0400

The SMARTcast crew is back with a quick recap of last year's significant events, goals for the new year and a sneak peek into a deep, but necessary series of episodes about mental health coming up in February. It's SMARTcast, your official stop for everything transit in Macomb, Oakland & Wayne County! #ThinkSMART #TransitPodcast #TransitThursday

🎙️ From the Backseat to the Boardroom: Danny Whitehouse Talks Paratransit, FLEX, and Family Legacy | SMARTcast 🚍

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 20:00:00 -0300

🎙️ From the Backseat to the Boardroom: Danny Whitehouse Talks Paratransit, FLEX, and Family Legacy | SMARTcast 🚍

In this inspiring episode of SMARTcast, your favorite transit duo Jordan Irving and Paul Johnson III sit down with Danny Whitehouse, SMART’s Vice President of Paratransit and On-Demand Services. From his early days at SMART—working alongside his father—to rising through the ranks and now leading with purpose, Danny shares a powerful journey rooted in legacy, compassion, and innovation.

💬 Tune in as Danny breaks down:

How SMART’s Paratransit program provides life-changing, curb-to-curb service.
The evolution of FLEX, SMART’s on-demand “Uber-like” ride service.
What it means to help riders with mobility challenges reclaim their independence.
The deep personal connection he has to transit and the community it serves.

Whether you're a transit lover, accessibility advocate, or just here for the gems, this one is full of heart and hustle. 💛

📢 Subscribe, comment, and share—because public transit is more than a ride… it’s a lifeline.

#SMARTcast #PublicTransit #Paratransit #FLEXRide #TransitLegacy #MobilityMatters #AccessibilityForAll #SMARTDetroit

☀️ SUMMER VIBES & TRANSIT TIPS! | SMARTcast Ep. 2 🚌🌽🎶

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:38:01 -0300

☀️ SUMMER VIBES & TRANSIT TIPS! | SMARTcast Ep. 2 🚌🌽🎶 Welcome back to SMARTcast: Your Stop for Everything Transit in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties! This week, our transit trailblazers Jordan Irving and Paul Johnson III are joined by a special guest—fellow SMART Ombudsperson Erika DeLange —for a sunshine-soaked ride through all things summer + transit. 🎡 Where should you ride this summer? We’re talking local farmers' markets, sizzling summer festivals, and smooth trips to outdoor concerts—all easily reachable on the SMART bus. 👗 Fashion in Transit? Yes, please. From breathable fabrics to anti-theft bags and bus-friendly footwear, the crew breaks down how to look cute, stay comfy, and keep it practical on the go. Whether you’re a daily rider or just looking for weekend adventures, this episode is your ultimate transit-style survival guide for summer! 📍Hop on, ride SMART, and explore your city—fashionably. 👇Hit that play button, drop a comment, and tell us your favorite transit destination this summer! #SMARTcast #RideSMART #DetroitTransit #BusLife #SummerInTheCity #FashionInTransit #FarmersMarketRun #MichiganEvents

🚍 WELCOME TO SMARTcast: The Transit Talk You Didn't Know You Needed! 🎙️

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:00:59 -0300

It’s here — the very first episode of SMARTcast with your hosts Jordan Irving & Paul Johnson III! 🔥 In this premier episode, the dynamic duo pulls back the curtain, introducing themselves and giving you a sneak peek at what’s rolling down the street this season 🚦. From behind-the-scenes bus stories to breaking down transit myths, hilarious hot takes, and can’t-miss community events — if it happens on wheels in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties, we’re talking about it. And guess who else makes a cameo? 🎉 That’s right — SMARTie pops in to say hello and share a few surprises along the way! 🤖 👉 Whether you're a daily rider, a transit nerd, or just here for the laughs — buckle up. Season 1 is about to pull out of the station. 🚎 Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and RING THE BELL 🔔 so you never miss an episode of SMARTcast! 🚌 Drop your favorite transit story or question in the comments — we might feature YOU on an upcoming episode! What to expect this season:

✅ Transit news & updates

✅ Behind-the-scenes SMART Bus operations

✅ Metro Detroit transit stories

✅ Community events

✅ Fun facts about public transportation

✅ Special appearances — including SMARTie the SMART Bus mascot!

#SMARTcastPodcast #DetroitTransit #SMARTBus #PublicTransportation #MacombCounty #OaklandCounty #WayneCounty #DetroitPodcast #TransitStories #PublicTransitDetroit #BusPodcast #SMARTie #SoutheastMichigan #PodcastPremiere