I recently sat down with Hannah Kettle‑Pettavel for her WHAT in the World podcast. Listen to the full podcast here (36 mins)

What unfolded was an energising conversation about something I care deeply about: how we move through our cities, and how transport shapes every aspect of our daily lives. Hannah and I talked about bikes, buses, planes, and the wider systems that hold our cities together. Transport, I suggested, is really a “keystone issue”—change it, and you can change the social, economic, and environmental fabric of urban life.

What struck me during our conversation was how clearly transport connects with social justice. Mobility isn’t just about infrastructure or efficiency; it’s about who gets access to opportunities, who breathes clean air, and who gets to feel safe and supported as they move around their community. We talked about how shifting our transport systems can build healthier, fairer cities and support broader climate ambitions, including work linked to initiatives such as the University of Leeds Climate Plan.

Hannah’s podcast aims to bridge research and practice in sustainable travel, and it is a great space to explore issues together -how academic insights meet lived experience, policy change, and on‑the‑ground action. We touched on examples like emerging bus franchising plans and Vision Zero strategies that show how cities can boldly rethink mobility.

For me, the conversation was a reminder of why transport matters so much. When we get it right—prioritising people, communities, and wellbeing—we unlock the potential for cities that are not only more efficient but more compassionate, connected, and resilient. It was a pleasure to share these ideas with Hannah - give the podcast a listen and feel inspired about what’s possible when we start reimagining the way we travel.