The DOT POD

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Cyber Security May 05, 2026

Show notes

What if the biggest threat to your workday wasn't an accident or traffic jam, but the equipment humming away on your desk? Today, we are pulling back the curtain on seemingly harmless workplace items and emails that are, in reality, attempts to steal not just your identity, but any kind of information that might prove valuable to bad actors.

On this episode of the DOT POD, we are introducing you to DOT's Cyber Security Team. They comprise a major line of defense, working around the clock to safeguard or systems, protect sensitive data, and stay ahead of sophisticated cyberattacks.

Josh and Anya are joined by DOT's Chief Information Security Officer Paul Centanni, and Cyber Security Analyst Fahad Ansar.

For more information, reach out directly to the Cyber Security Team at DOT.365.CyberTeam@dot.ny.gov.

**SPECIAL** Remembering Pat Mapleson During Work Zone Awareness Week Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

This episode is launching during National Work Zone Awareness Week. A time to highlight the importance of work zone safety and to remember the men and women who have lost their lives while working to keep our roads maintained and safe.

On March 17, 2006, Patrick Mapleson was filling potholes along Sunrise Highway on Long Island when a driver lost control of his cement truck and crashed into Pat's work zone, taking his life.

This episode was recorded on March 17, 2026 on the same day a tree planting ceremony was held at DOT's Medford Yard on Long Island, marking the 20th anniversary of Pat's passing and honoring his life and legacy.

Josh and Anya were joined by Pat's friend and co-worker Pete Bugala, who was on the job site that day, as well as Pat's daughter Karen Torres who has become an advocate for work zone safety.

Reimagining I-787 Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of The DOT POD, Josh and Anya take a deep dive into one of the most ambitious and transformative transportation efforts currently underway in New York's Capital Region -Reimagining I-787.

Greg Wichser and Kelley Kircher join the program to talk about the effort that not only addresses aging infrastructure along a major corridor from the City of Albany to the Community of Green Island, it also will provide safer vehicle and pedestrian access, and help to shape the future of the Capital Region for generations to come.

To find out more visit the project website.

Training the Next Generation of Plow Operators Mar 31, 2026

Show notes

For newer snowplow operators, this winter season wasn't just busy - it was an opportunity and a masterclass in maneuvering plows in whiteouts and adapting to rapidly changing conditions.

Josh and Anya traveled to Binghamton to sit down with one of DOT's newer snowplow operators, and one of their experienced instructors.

Equipment Operator Instructor Ryan Ashman and Highway Maintenance Worker Cody Randel joined the show to talk about what this winter taught them.

Linda Lubey Joins the DOT POD Mar 17, 2026

Show notes

We're celebrating Women's History Month and we're doing it the best way we know how - by highlighting a leader who is not only shaping transportation in New York State, but also the world of women in transportation.

Josh and Anya are joined by Linda Lubey, the new Director of the Office of Traffic, Safety, and Mobility. Linda started her career when the transportation field was still mostly dominated by men. But she didn't just enter the field - she rose through it - and is now a leader among leaders.

Hobbies Mar 03, 2026

Show notes

When you think of the New York State Department of Transportation, you probably imagine projects, planning, or filling potholes and snowplowing. And while that's definitely part of the job, DOT employees don't just live and breathe transportation. They've got plenty of hobbies and passions outside of work.

In this episode, Josh and Anya welcome in a few of these employees to find out what skills and hobbies these public servants have. Find out more about Chief Data Officer Mike Rossi, author; DOT Maintenance Environmental Program Manager MaryEllen Papin, apiarist; and Assistant Commissioner for Operations Ken Bibbins, high school trap shooting coach.

DOT Goes Viral Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

If you've been on social media during a snowstorm or just before our morning commute, chances are DOT popped up in your feed. Sometimes those posts don't just pop...they explode.

Case in point, last month's major statewide snowstorm. Millions of people viewed an eight-foot tall snowbank, with one of our DOT employees standing next to it for scale...and boom, that picture went viral.

Jeremy Johnson is the DOT employee standing in that photo and Rick Hyde runs our social media and is the person behind what everyone sees on our social media channels; they join Josh and Anya on this episode of the DOT POD.

HELP Trucks Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of the DOT POD, we are talking about something that New Yorkers see on many of our roadways - HELP Trucks. Those white trucks that seem to show up at exactly the right moment - when flat tires, spinouts, or dead batteries happen.

Recording from the Hudson Valley, Josh and Anya welcome in HELP Truck Operator Jerry Gamone, Manager for DOT's Traffic Management Center in Hawthorne, NY Lance Gorney, and New York State Police Trooper Mike Reilly to discuss the program.

Livingston Avenue Bridge Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

The Livingston Avenue Bridge has been carrying trains across the Hudson River since the Civil War era. Now, more than 150 years later, it's being replaced to meet the needs of modern rail travel while also expanding pedestrian access with a design that respects its historic roots.

On this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya welcome in Jeff Moryl, Director of DOT's Project Management Office, and Sue Torelli, Director of DOT's Rail Projects Group, to talk about the bridge's history, why it matters so much, and what it take to replace a critical rail crossing without stopping the trains and passengers that rely on it every day.

Combating Human Trafficking Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

The New York State Department of Transportation is all about serving our communities and over the years we've expanded our focus to encompass a wide range of initiatives that listeners may not at first associate with transportation.

One area where our department has taken the lead on a nation level is in the fight against human trafficking.

In honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Josh and Anya welcomed in Jonathan Nicastro, Director of DOT's Office of Modal Safety and Security and Rich Lindemann, Roadside Inspection Manager to discuss how DOT is working closely with our partners in law enforcement and the trucking and bussing industries to address this crime and help raise awareness.

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