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.

    #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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    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
  • Shifting Gears: From Marketing to School Bus Operations
    Aug 4 2025

    Join Shane Johnson on the Morning Route podcast as he sits down with Kathyrn Forbord from Schmitty and Sons. In this episode, Kathryn shares her experiences and insights into the school transportation industry. Learn about the rich history of Schmiyty and Sons, founded in the 1940s, and their transition to an employee-owned company. Discover the challenges and innovations in the school bus sector, including driver recruitment, technology integration, and the industry's future. Kathryn also talks about her journey from sports marketing to becoming the Director of Operations at Schmitty and Sons. Don't miss her perspectives on the unique dynamics of the industry, the importance of safe student transportation, and her new role as President of the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association.

    00:00 Introduction to the Morning Route Podcast

    00:31 Meet Our Special Guest: Kathyn Forbord

    00:52 History and Evolution of Schmitty and Sons

    01:30 Challenges and Growth in the School Bus Industry

    04:00 Personal Journey: From Marketing to School Bus Operations

    06:02 The Importance of School Bus Drivers

    09:09 Family Life and Work Balance

    11:15 Industry Challenges: Recruitment and Driver Shortage

    16:00 Future of the School Bus Industry

    27:06 Commitment to Long-Term Partnerships

    27:53 New Leadership Announcement

    28:41 Reflections on the Summer Conference

    32:20 Exciting News: School Bus Rodeo Returns

    35:46 Industry Challenges and Legislative Insights

    49:11 Empowering Women in Transportation

    52:16 Concluding Thoughts and Personal Reflections

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    55 mins
  • Finding your voice in Leadership with Angie Lloyd
    Jul 7 2025

    Join host Shane Johnson on the Morning Route podcast with special guest Angie Lloyd from Franklin Covey. In this episode, they delve into the transformative power of the '7 Habits of Highly Effective People' developed by Dr. Stephen Covey. Angie shares her extensive experience in education and leadership, emphasizing the importance of proactive behavior, mission statements, prioritization, and the mindset of win-win situations. They also discuss the powerful impact of empathetic listening and the concept of 'synergize' to value differences and work collaboratively. Angie offers practical tips for self-renewal and shares poignant personal stories that highlight how these habits have influenced her life. Real, relatable, and packed with actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and personal efficacy.

    00:00 Introduction to the Morning Route Podcast

    00:22 Meet Our Special Guest: Angie Lloyd

    01:12 Angie's Background in Education

    03:34 Transition to Franklin Covey

    05:06 Understanding Franklin Covey and the Seven Habits

    08:29 Leadership and Personal Mission Statements

    13:41 The First Three Habits: Proactivity, Vision, and Prioritization

    32:49 Habit 4: Think Win-Win

    33:28 Understanding the Win-Win Mindset

    35:13 The Role of Ego in Conflict

    37:46 Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

    44:20 Habit 6: Synergize

    49:32 Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

    55:10 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts


    Special Thanks to Angie Lloyd- Franklin Covey

    www.franklincovey.com

    Podcast Table and Chairs- Made by Marco specializing in student seating. www.madebymarco.com

    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 #7habitsofhighlyeffectivepeople #franklincovey #madebymarco #podcasttable #podcastchair #podcaststudio #podcastdesign #sevenhabits #7habits #thebusstop #transportationpodcast #schoolbuspodcast

    For inquiries: podcast@palmerbusservice.com


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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • From Milk Hauling to School Buses-- The Kobussen Legacy
    Jun 9 2025
    In this episode of the Morning Route podcast, host Shane Johnson sits down with Dan Kobussen from Wisconsin-based Kobussen Bus. They discuss the history and growth of Dan's third-generation family-run school bus company, industry challenges like the driver shortage and insurance costs, and the importance of national and state school bus associations. Tune in for insights into school bus safety competitions, the impact of under-the-hood waivers, and the future of alternative transportation in the industry.00:00 Welcome to the Morning Route Podcast00:25 Introducing Special Guest Dan Kobussen01:24 The History of Kobussen Bus03:22 School District Operations in Wisconsin06:58 Dan's Role as NSTA President12:59 Highlights from the National Congress on School Transportation23:11 Challenges and Changes in the School Bus Industry30:45 Challenges in Northern Wisconsin31:43 Adapting to Industry Changes33:00 Insurance Costs and Their Impact33:26 Building Relationships with School Districts34:55 The Importance of Communication36:46 Insurance Industry Trends40:05 Self-Insurance Models45:53 Under the Hood Waiver48:46 Legislative Efforts and Safety Campaigns53:48 NSTA Summer Conference58:02 The Value of Community and Networking01:00:50 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsFor More Infomation on the webinar with Tim Weaverling:www.yellowbuses.orgFor More Information on the Boston Summer Conference:NSTA CONFERENCE LINKhttps://nationalschooltransportationa... For More Infomation on Kobussen Bus, LTD:www.kobussen.comTo become a guest on our show email us at podcast@palmerbusservice.comFor More info on the Brake For Kids Act HR 2348 https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-c...Check out the NSTA Podcast The Bus Stop #fypシ゚viral #mnpodcast #podcast #nationalnews #news #wisconsin #schoolbusdrivers #schoool #schoolbustransportation #nsta #mankato #themorningroutepodcast #transportation #specialeducation #msboa #zero #zerodeaths #nowrecording #copyrightfreemusic #inspiration #dairyfarm #dairy #dairymonth #cows #milk #kobussen #macysysn #legacy ‪@palmerbusservice7652‬ ‪@TheMorningRoutePodcast‬
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Behind the Yellow Bus- Part 2 with Curt Macysyn
    May 28 2025

    Join host Shane Johnson in this episode of ‪@TheMorningRoutePodcast‬ as he engages in a detailed discussion with Curt MacKesson, President of Enterprise Public Affairs. The pair delve into the Sunshine Protection Act, exploring the implications of permanent daylight saving time on student transportation safety and industry operations. Curt shares insights from the National School Transportation Association (NSTA) and discusses his new role as Executive Director of the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association (MSBOA). The conversation also touches on the importance of industry advocacy, the revival of the school bus driver safety competition, and the invaluable benefits of association membership. Tune in for an informative episode shedding light on key industry dynamics and legislative impacts.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Discussing the Sunshine Protection Act01:29 Impact of Daylight Savings on School Transportation05:45 Historical Context and Election Anecdotes07:26 Benefits of NSTA Membership16:38 Reviving the School Bus Rodeo20:27 New Role Announcement and Future Plans25:59 Early Database Management in the Nineties27:07 The Importance of Database Accuracy28:04 Leveraging Connections for Success29:23 The Value of Membership and Involvement32:26 Challenges in Student Transportation36:46 The Role of Education in Advocacy38:07 Podcasting and Industry Conversations43:22 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationSpecial Thanks to Curt Macysyn! Tune in to The Bus Stop Podcast on your favorite way to listen to podcast. Bus Roadeo info: https://nationalschooltransportationa...#busrodeo #rodeo #mnpodcast #podcast #schoolbusdrivers #thebusstop #nsta #msboa #themorningroutepodcast #automobile #transportation #minnesota #coffee #routes #specialeducation #history #daylightsavings

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    49 mins
  • Behind the Yellow Bus: Industry Insights with Curt Macysyn Part 1
    May 12 2025

    In this episode of @TheMorningRoutePodcast , host Shane Johnson welcomes Curt Macysyn, President of Enterprise Public Affairs and the Executive Director of the National School Transportation Association (NSTA), to discuss essential topics in school transportation. Curt shares insights into his background, the significance of NSTA, and the pressing issues tackled during the recent Capitol Hill Bus-In. Learn more about the Break for Kids Act (HR 2348) and the Driving Forward Act (HR 2360) and how they aim to improve safety and efficiency in school transportation. Plus, explore the pivotal role of vendors, OEMs, and the importance of collective industry efforts in advancing student transportation. Don't miss this informative conversation packed with valuable insights for anyone involved in the school transportation sector.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:41 Curt's Background and Career Journey05:50 Curt's Role as a High School Umpire09:34 Transition to Enterprise Public Affairs10:06 National School Transportation Association (NSTA) Overview18:21 Importance of Vendors and OEMs22:04 Capitol Hill Bus-In and Legislative Focus23:07 Reviewing Key Legislative Efforts23:45 The Stop for School Buses Act25:54 Survey Insights and Public Perception27:25 Engaging with Legislators29:56 The Driving Forward Act30:21 Addressing the Bus Driver Shortage32:45 Challenges with CDL Requirements39:56 The Need for Industry-Specific Regulations41:46 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionThank you for watching our latest episode of The Morning Route Podcast.For inquiries or to become a guest on our podcast email us at: podcast@palmerbusservice.comSpecial Thanks to Curt Macysyn from the National School Transporation Association. Have questions about membership? Feel free to give us a call at 703-684-3200 or email info@yellowbuses.org #minnesotapodcast #schoolbusdrivers #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 #turbo #motorcoach #mnmotorcoach #schoolsports #mshslhighschoolsports #mapt #trainthetrainer #thebusstop #transportationpodcast #schoolbuspodcast

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    43 mins