In this impactful episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Dr. Roselle welcomes Jessica Mefford-Miller, CEO of Valley Metro, for a deep dive into the intersection of transportation, community development, and sustainability. With a career rooted in geography, Jessica brings a visionary approach to public transit, emphasizing equity, innovation, and climate-smart infrastructure. From her unconventional journey to leading one of the most dynamic transit systems in the U.S., to Valley Metro’s commitment to affordability, inclusivity, and environmental impact—this episode uncovers how sustainable transit can be a catalyst for economic growth and social equity.Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of the Phoenix light rail system, sustainability innovations like battery-electric buses and solar-powered operations, and leadership lessons on workforce development and inclusivity. The conversation also highlights meaningful partnerships, like with Footprint Center and Phoenix Rising, that embed public transit into the cultural fabric of the region.