In this episode, Linda sits down with Janice R. Thomas, Chief of Staff and Deputy Executive Director of External Affairs at Metra.

With over 25 years of government and transit experience helping run the nation's fourth-largest commuter rail system, Janice shares how the high-stakes world of keeping a railroad moving shapes her approach to leadership, mentorship, and her deeply cherished roles as a mother and grandmother.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Women in Rail Podcast!

Hosted by Linda Laurello, this podcast is dedicated to sharing the powerful stories, breakthroughs, and experiences of women shaping the modern rail industry.

In this inaugural episode, Linda introduces herself, shares the inspiration behind launching the show, and gives a sneak peek into the incredible lineup of guests and topics coming your way this season. Whether you’re a rail veteran or just curious about the industry, this is your community.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• The Inspiration: Why a dedicated space for women in the rail sector is more important now than ever.
• Linda’s Journey: A brief look at Linda Laurello's background and her passion for the industry.
• What’s Next: What listeners can expect from Season 1, including upcoming guest spotlights, career advice, and industry insights.

About Linda

Linda Laurello is a fourth-generation railroader dedicated to modernizing the industry's future. As the founder of the Next Gen Rail Network and host of the Women in Rail Podcast, she leverages her deep industry roots to mentor emerging talent and advocate for a more inclusive, forward-thinking workforce.

Prior to her current ventures, Linda spent over two decades at Delta Railroad Services, an organization founded by her great-grandfather, Cosmo Anthony Laurello. During her tenure, she served as Chairman of the Board and CEO, ensuring the company’s legacy of excellence evolved to meet modern demands.

Her leadership was defined by a rare "full-stack" executive experience, having held several pivotal C-level roles:

• Chief Executive Officer: Driving strategic vision and long-term expansion.
• Chief Operations Officer: Managing complex logistical and field execution.
• Chief Financial Officer: Overseeing fiscal health and capital allocation.
• Estimating, Contracts, & Project Management: Navigating the intricate regulatory and legal landscapes of rail infrastructure.

Linda pairs her hands-on field experience with a rigorous academic background, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from John Carroll University and an MBA with a concentration in Finance from Northeastern University.

Outside of the rail corridor, Linda is a dedicated community leader. She serves on various advisory boards, including the Board of Trustees for the Ashtabula Regional Medical Center (ARMC) Foundation, where she contributes to the health and wellness of her region.

When she isn’t advocating for the rail industry, Linda prioritizes time with her family. She is an avid seeker of new experiences, frequently traveling and exploring with her three