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The Morning Route Podcast

The Morning Route Podcast

By: Hosted by Shane Johnson
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Welcome! I'm thrilled to have you join me as we dive deep into everything related to the school bus industry! Whether it’s about safety standards, the latest tech innovations, or practical leadership tips, there’s something here for transportation pros, educators, parents, and anyone who values the vital role school buses play in our education system. I’m your host, Shane Johnson, and in each episode, we’ll tackle the newest trends, share best practices, and hear from industry leaders and experts who are dedicated to keeping millions of students safe and on time every day. Our discussions wilHosted by Shane Johnson Economics
Episodes
  • RNG & Diesel: Sustainable Partnerships for School Buses
    Sep 8 2025

    In this episode of the Morning Route podcast, host Shane Johnson sits down with Russell Schindler from Ingevity to discuss the role of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the student transportation sector. They explore Ingevity's innovative technology that allows diesel school buses to operate on a blend of renewable natural gas and diesel, offering a cost-effective, environmentally friendly solution. The conversation covers everything from the installation process, cost, and benefits to the future of RNG in the school bus industry. Perfect for transportation professionals, educators, and anyone interested in sustainable solutions for school transportation.

    00:00 Introduction to the Morning Route Podcast

    00:28 Meet the Guest: Russell Schindler from Ingevity

    02:18 Russell's Background and Personal Life

    05:30 Introduction to Ingevity and Its Mission

    07:46 Partnership and Product Overview

    14:39 Understanding Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)

    20:02 RNG Implementation in School Buses

    23:56 Refueling and Infrastructure

    30:13 Benefits and Value Proposition of RNG

    30:45 Introduction to Alternative Fuels

    31:16 Benefits of Using Existing Diesel Assets

    31:44 Cost Savings with Natural Gas

    32:28 Environmental Benefits of RNG

    32:56 Complementing Different Fuel Types

    33:19 Return on Investment and System Longevity

    39:04 Installation Process and Site Visits

    44:39 Partnership and Support

    45:50 Cost and Grants Information

    53:18 Future of RNG in School Buses

    55:49 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • School Bus Roadeos to Legislation: A deep dive with Lt. Brian Reu
    Aug 18 2025

    In this episode of the Morning Route podcast, host Shane Johnson sits down with Lieutenant Brian Ru from the State Patrol. They discuss various topics including the role of school buses in the education system, summer outings, the MSBOA conference, and the recent NCST conference. The conversation also covers important safety measures, the Stop Arm Violation statistics, and the upcoming Minnesota School Bus Rodeo. With school starting soon, they emphasize the significance of road safety and the collective efforts to ensure a secure environment for students. Join us for an insightful discussion on the nuances of school transportation and public safety.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:27 Guest Introduction: Lieutenant Brian Reu

    00:55 Summer Activities and Personal Stories

    02:48 MSBOA Conference Insights

    09:31 Review Request Process for Inspection Failures

    12:36 NCST Conference Overview

    23:16 Upcoming Minnesota School Bus Rodeo

    26:04 Fun and Representation at the National Level

    26:29 Logistics and Funding for Participation

    26:55 Promoting Skills and Safety

    28:36 Stop Arm Violation Statistics

    30:55 Challenges in Enforcement and Prosecution

    41:52 Back to School Safety Reminders

    45:30 Recognizing Student Achievements

    46:47 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

    Thank you for watching our latest episode of The Morning Route Podcast.

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    For inquiries: podcast@palmerbusservice.com


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    49 mins
  • Inside the Yellow: A Conversation with IC Bus's Katie Stok
    Aug 11 2025

    Join Shane Johnson in this episode of the Morning Route Podcast as he sits down with Katie Stok, the Product Marketing Commercial Readiness Director at IC Bus. They delve into the importance of school buses in the education system, IC Bus's latest innovations, and the specifics of the Next Gen bus rollout. Learn about the evolving demands in the industry, the design process, and what sets IC Bus apart from the rest. Get insights on safety features, the impact of EPA regulations, and the future of electric buses. Katie also shares her thoughts on bus drivers' crucial roles and offers advice for those planning their future bus purchases. Don't miss this informative and engaging conversation!

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:26 Meet Our Special Guest: Katie Stok

    01:13 Katie's Journey in the Bus Industry

    02:11 The Close-Knit Bus Industry

    03:53 Katie's Personal Interests and Hobbies

    05:58 Exciting Updates from IC Bus

    12:09 Customer Feedback and Design Improvement

    20:27 Future of Bus Manufacturing and EPA 2027

    28:16 Gratitude for Choice in Power Plant Options

    29:08 Anticipating Price Increases in 2027

    33:14 Enhanced Safety Features in Next-Gen Buses

    39:15 Navigating State and Federal Requirements

    45:22 Appreciation for School Bus Drivers

    51:17 Future of Electric Vehicles in School Buses

    53:10 Why Choose IC Bus?

    56:02 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

    Thank you for watching our latest episode of The Morning Route Podcast.

    #minnesotapodcast #schoolbusdriver #behindthewheel #podcast #transportationmanagement #diesel #msboa #PalmerBusService #PalmerBusDrivers #PalmerBusRoutes #TheMorningRoutePalmerBus #TheMorningRouteMankato #BusDrivingMankato #MankatoTransit #MankatoBusDrivers #TheMorningRoute #TheMorningRoutePodcast #TheMorningRouteMN #BusDrivingMinnesota #BusDriverLife #BusDriverStories #MinnesotaRoads #MNTrasit #SchoolBusDrivers #Minnesota #transportation #career #job #training #Podcast #bluebirdbus #international #thomasbus #schoolbusdrivers #womeninleadership #specialeducation #SPED #paras #teachers #superintendent #schoolbustransportation #transportationdirectors #nsta #minnesotaschoolbusoperatorsassociation #nationalschooltransporationassociation #dieselpodcast #propane #rousch #ford #yellowbuses #leadership #politics #cdl #commercialdriverslicense #cdltraining #eldt #entryleveldrivertraining #thirdpartytester #electricschoolbus #lyonschoolbus #turbo #motorcoach #mnmotorcoach #schoolsports #mshsl #minnesotastatehighschoolleague #mapt #trainthetrainer #thebusstop #transportationpodcast #schoolbuspodcast #franklincovey #podcasttable #podcastchair #podcastdesign #madebymarco #7habitsofhighlyeffectivepeople #sevenhabits #7habits #podcastdesign

    For inquiries: podcast@palmerbusservice.com


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    58 mins
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