The 71-Year-Old Who Turns a NYC Subway Commute Into Pure Joy

Beneath the busy streets of Manhattan, amid the noise and chaos of the subway system, 71-year-old Rodney Smith is bringing smiles to thousands of commuters each morning at the 86th Street station.

Smith, a customer service agent with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), has become a beloved fixture on the platform, greeting riders with cheerful messages like “Good morning!” and “Have an awesome day!” His energetic presence and friendly demeanor have made him a standout in a transit system more often associated with delays and discontent.

A longtime MTA employee, Smith worked for years as a bus and train operator before becoming a station agent in 2017. It wasn’t until 2022 — after pandemic restrictions were lifted — that he began stepping out of the booth and interacting with riders face-to-face.

Now, his role goes far beyond greetings. Smith helps tourists navigate machines, offers directions to lost commuters, and shares quick conversations about everything from the weather to Yankees scores.

Despite just turning 71, Smith says he has no intention of retiring, even as his three daughters continue to encourage him to do so. Commuters say they miss him when he’s not there, often asking staff where he is during vacations or shift changes.

Smith says his goal is simple: to spread positivity. “Kindness is free,” he tells riders — and every day, he proves it.