Episode Description
Are you ready for a new era of accessibility and partnership with the federal government?
In this episode, James Blain sits down for a highly anticipated conversation with Derek Barrs, 8th Administrator FMCSA-USDOT, to discuss his vision for the passenger transportation industry. Together, they explore the FMCSA's renewed dedication to the motorcoach sector, including active efforts to rebuild the passenger carrying division and foster collaborative relationships with operators.
This episode provides a rare, transparent look at how federal regulators are shifting their focus to work alongside businesses to elevate safety standards and eliminate bad actors.
- How the FMCSA is utilizing a new "borderless" approach to restore knowledge and resources
- The agency's commitment to accessibility, education, communication and enforcement
- The critical need to aggressively stop "chameleon carriers" and illegal operators
- Why Barrs believes focusing on foundational safety details builds a culture of success
- The importance of treating school bus and motorcoach drivers as highly trained professionals
If you want to understand the future of federal safety enforcement and how to build a stronger, more collaborative relationship with regulators, this episode is a mandatory listen.
Connect with Derek on LinkedIn
Visit the FMCSA website
Share your perspective in the Q1 2026 Operator survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HJBV3NZ
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