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    SYSK Selects: Subways: HUH! What are they good for?

    enMarch 24, 2018

    Podcast Summary

    • Earning Miles with Everyday Expenses and Travel PerksThe Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on purchases, airport lounge access, a $300 annual travel credit, and savings through Kroger brand products.

      The Capital One Venture X Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, providing an opportunity to earn miles for everyday expenses and redeem them for travel. Additionally, cardholders receive premium travel benefits such as airport lounge access and a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel. Meanwhile, shopping at Kroger with their brand products guarantees customer satisfaction and savings. Lastly, the Stuff You Should Know podcast episode on subways provides insight into the history and creation of this transportation system, highlighting its significance and fascinating aspects.

    • Emergence of Subway Systems during Industrial RevolutionNew York, Paris, and London adopted subway systems during the Industrial Revolution for efficient transportation in densely populated urban areas, using long carbon steel rails for efficient travel

      The New York subway system, along with those in Paris and London, emerged during the Industrial Revolution when people moved from rural areas to cities in search of jobs. These cities needed efficient ways to transport large populations, leading to the development of mass transit systems. Unlike early systems that relied on horses and were above ground, these cities eventually adopted subway systems with steel rails to move people more efficiently. The New York subway system, designed with the possibility of traveling long distances, uses 35-foot long carbon steel rails, while Paris and London have their unique characteristics. Despite the differences, all three systems were established within a short time frame due to the need for efficient transportation in densely populated urban areas.

    • From Horse-Drawn Carriages to Subways: NYC's Transportation HistoryNew York City's transportation history began with horse-drawn carriages and omnibuses, leading to the construction of the subway system. Buses remain a cost-effective and scenic alternative, while early subway construction relied on manual labor and rudimentary tools, paving the way for modern infrastructure.

      New York City's transportation history is rich and fascinating, with horse-drawn carriages and omnibuses leading the way before the subway system was built. Tourists should not be afraid to use the buses as a cost-effective and scenic alternative to the subway. The construction of underground transit systems like the subway in New York and the tube in London was a significant engineering feat, with early construction relying on manual labor and rudimentary tools. The tunnel boring machines used today make the process much more efficient and safer. Despite the challenges, the success of these early systems paved the way for modern transportation infrastructure.

    • Austrian Tunneling Method: More Than Just Digging TunnelsThe Austrian Tunneling Method is a collection of techniques for finding optimal digging locations and overcoming obstacles, making it an efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional tunneling methods.

      The Austrian tunneling method is not just a single technique for digging tunnels, but a collection of methods and techniques for finding the best places to dig and overcoming obstacles. This approach, which distinguishes it from the old Austrian method, has been effective in constructing infrastructure like subways and sewage systems, even in the presence of existing infrastructure. The cut-and-cover method, a traditional approach, involves temporarily ripping up a street, digging a trench, and rebuilding it stronger, allowing for the relocation of utilities and the construction of subways. However, this method can be time-consuming and costly due to the need to reroute or move obstacles, such as buildings or major infrastructure. The Austrian tunneling method, with its focus on efficient and effective tunnel construction, has proven to be a valuable alternative.

    • Unexpected obstacles in infrastructure projects and social mediaInfrastructure projects face unforeseen challenges, which can lead to costly detours or innovative solutions. Social media platforms like Zigazoo prioritize data safety and offer a kid-friendly experience, earning certifications like KidSafe Kappa.

      Infrastructure projects can encounter unexpected obstacles, such as hidden pipes or aquifers, which require careful planning and consideration. In the context of the subway discussion, these obstacles can lead to costly detours or rerouting of utilities. However, in some cases, these obstacles can be leveraged to support the infrastructure project itself, such as using beams and tresses to hang utility lines. Meanwhile, in the realm of social media, the discussion introduced Zigazoo, a kid-friendly platform that prioritizes data safety. Despite initial reservations, the speaker shared her positive experience with Zigazoo, highlighting its moderated videos, lack of comments or messaging, and parental consent requirement. With these features, Zigazoo offers a social media experience tailored to kids, earning it a KidSafe Kappa certification. Lastly, the conversation touched on the importance of adaptability in infrastructure projects, as unexpected discoveries can lead to new challenges and opportunities. This adaptability is reflected in the ability to reroute utility lines or find innovative solutions to working beneath water. Similarly, the speaker's openness to reconsidering her stance on social media for kids demonstrates the value of staying flexible and open to new information.

    • Ingenious Construction Methods in HistoryFrom ancient Roman quarries to modern automated trains, engineers have used creative solutions to overcome construction challenges throughout history.

      Construction methods in the past were more ingenious than we might think. From freezing hard-to-handle mud with calcium chloride in old Parisian construction sites to building underground bridges over ancient Roman quarries, engineers found creative solutions to overcome challenges. The cut and cover method was also used effectively in the San Francisco Bay. Additionally, abandoned subway stations, like the one on the six train loop in New York City, offer fascinating glimpses into history. Some of these stations, like the one at City Hall, have been preserved and can be explored, providing a unique experience for transit enthusiasts. Modern transportation systems continue to evolve, with automated trains in cities like Denmark leading the way.

    • Advanced technology in modern trainsModern trains utilize advanced technology for navigation, power generation, and safety, constantly updating with new features and improvements, essential for urban transportation despite challenges like massive air circulation needs.

      Modern trains, like those in New York City's subway system, use advanced technology to navigate tunnels, generate power, and ensure safety. These trains are constantly being updated with new lines, improved air circulation systems, and automated signals. Despite challenges, such as the need for massive air circulation to sustain life underground, these trains have become essential transportation infrastructure in cities around the world. While some systems, like Atlanta's MARTA, may not be as extensive or efficient as others, they continue to serve their communities and adapt to changing technologies.

    • The Complexity of the Subway System and the Safety of Child-Friendly Social MediaThe subway system's intricate infrastructure requires constant maintenance and precision, while child-friendly social media platforms prioritize data safety and offer creative spaces for kids to share and showcase their work.

      The subway system is a complex network that requires constant maintenance and precision to keep trains running smoothly. From the power supply on the third rail to the alignment of the tracks, every aspect of the subway system is crucial for its operation. This is especially true in older cities like New York, where the infrastructure dates back over a century. Another interesting takeaway is the existence of child-friendly social media platforms like Zigazoo. Contrary to previous beliefs, this platform prioritizes data safety and offers a space for kids to share and showcase their creations without the risk of inappropriate comments or messaging. It's a great example of how technology can be used to create safe and enjoyable experiences for children. Lastly, the podcast "500 Greatest Songs" sheds light on the history and significance of iconic songs and their impact on popular culture. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just curious, this podcast offers a unique perspective on the greatest songs ever made. In summary, the subway system's intricate infrastructure, the safety and creativity of child-friendly social media, and the cultural significance of iconic songs are all fascinating takeaways from this discussion.

    • People have sought refuge in subways during wars and crisesDuring wars and crises, subways have provided shelter and safety, with people relying on an honor system for train fare and trains undergoing regular overhauls before being retired and discarded.

      During times of war and crisis, people have sought refuge in subways. This was seen during World War I and II in London and Paris, where people took cover against air raids. In World War I, planes were taken down by dropping bricks, and people still needed protection from mortars. In more recent history, the Tokyo Sarin Gas episode in 1995 and the London bombings in 2005 led to mass evacuations to subways. The honor system for paying for train rides was seen in Switzerland, and trains go through about 24 axles and 24 motors over a 40-50 year lifespan before being retired and dumped in the ocean. The overhaul and repair shop on Coney Island handles the decommissioning of trains. The discussion also touched upon the documentary "Dark Days" about homeless people living underground.

    • New York City's Subway System: Vast but ChallengedNew York's subway system is the largest in the US, but faces challenges like mechanical breakdowns, cleanliness issues, and declining ridership, making it the worst in the world according to certain measures.

      New York City has an extensive subway system with over 500,000 square feet of shop space, where trains and subway cars are repaired. However, the system has faced challenges, including mechanical breakdowns and cleanliness issues, making it the worst in the world for the fourth year in a row according to certain measures. New York ranks seventh in ridership globally, with cities like Tokyo, Moscow, and Shanghai leading the way. The decline in subway usage in New York can be attributed to factors like World War II and the availability of cars. In 2011, New York's subways traveled a combined 342 million miles, and the city has 60 fewer stations than the rest of the subway systems in the US combined. The C train, which goes all over Manhattan and the West Village, is often seen as the "ugly stepchild" of the subway system. If you laid New York's tracks end-to-end, they would reach from New York to Chicago. The lowest station, 191st Street in Manhattan, is 180 feet below ground, making it a challenging construction site due to the presence of hard rock called schist. Overall, the New York City subway system is vast and complex, but faces significant challenges in terms of maintenance and ridership.

    • Finding deep connections through unique conversations and shared interestsAuthenticity and common ground are essential in building meaningful relationships. Shared interests, like podcasts, can lead to deep conversations and long-lasting bonds.

      The power of unique conversations and shared interests can lead to deep connections and long-lasting relationships. The speaker, Monique from California, shared her story of how her boyfriend's quirks and their shared love for the Stuff You Should Know podcast helped him win her heart. The importance of authenticity and finding common ground cannot be overstated in building meaningful relationships. Furthermore, the podcast recommendation platform HowStuffWorks offers valuable information on various topics, including subway etiquette and the history of tunnel boring machines. Additionally, Zigazoo, a social media network for kids, ensures a safe and moderated online community for young users to express themselves and connect with others. Lastly, the 500 Greatest Songs podcast explores the stories behind iconic music and the reasons why these songs continue to resonate with audiences.

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