The Taxi Lawyer Who Drives Change

For many people, the yellow taxi is synonymous with New York City itself. However, behind every cab is a system that keeps the wheels turning. In this episode, Jasper Mallorca sits down with Simeon Mesina, a lawyer in the Taxi and Limousine Commission’s prosecution unit who handles cases involving drivers accused of violating TLC rules. He talks about delivering hard news, navigating frustration, and staying calm under pressure. Mesina also reflects on his path from practicing human rights law in the Philippines to serving New York City. Guided by a strong sense of community, he shares what it takes to keep one of the world’s busiest cities moving and why he remains committed to his work.Jasper Mallorca is a senior at the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan, where he majors in cartooning. He earned a Scholastic Arts Honorable Mention for a charcoal sketch and has competed on his school’s track and cross-country teams. A musician and writer at heart, he studied piano for nearly a decade and recently released his first track, “Time Will Tell,” under the artist name J The Known.The Summer Youth Podcast Academy is The Bell’s immersive beginner podcasting workshop for New York City public school students. This year’s academy was made possible by support from the Spotify Studios Union.