Cities don’t just develop over time — they’re shaped by decisions about transportation, where we build, and what gets prioritized.

Urban planner Jahnavi Kirtane explains how those decisions come together, why so many places in the U.S. are built around cars, and how walkability affects independence, access, and everyday life in ways most people don’t realize.

"Walking is really good for you, both your physical health and your social health and emotional health."

Hear Jahnavi talk about:

1. The difference between growing up in a car-dependent suburb and navigating New York City
2. What “walkability” actually means and how it shows up in daily life
3. Why many U.S. communities are designed around cars
4. The kinds of decisions that shape how cities function
5. How design influences independence, access, and connection

Mentioned in this episode:

1. Walkable City by Jeff Speck
2. Speck Dempsey, the planning and design firm where Jahnavi works
3. Jeff Speck's TED talk, The Walkable City

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