Rodney Smith’s positivity transforms daily subway routines into moments of connection
In a city that rarely slows down, one man is making it his mission to do just that, with kindness. Rodney Smith, a 71-year-old MTA customer service agent, has become a beloved figure at the 86th Street Q line subway station on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. With a smile, a warm greeting, and a positive spirit, he’s offering commuters something rare and refreshing: a genuine human connection.
Spreading cheer beneath the city
Each morning, Smith greets passengers with familiar calls like, “All right, two minutes, two minutes to Stillwell,” and more importantly, with warmth and encouragement. Since stepping out of his booth post-pandemic, Smith has embraced the opportunity to interact directly with the public.
“I got energy from the customers,” Smith said. “This is how I am anyway. And I was able to be myself. I live my life with joy.”
A daily dose of joy
Commuters have taken notice—and many now look forward to seeing him every day.
“Rodney is just the spirit of joy and happiness every morning for everybody at this station,” said regular rider Maria Puerta. “In our world where everybody is insisting to be serious, he has decided to be happy, and I love that.”
Others echoed her sentiments. “He gives us motivation in the morning,” said commuter Peter Andrews. “It’s a good vibe.”
Another passenger, Matt Conley, said, “People are anticipating seeing him. I mean, how often do we anticipate something in the day that’s going to be good and pleasant?”
Help beyond a smile
Smith’s presence isn’t just emotional—it’s practical, too. He routinely assists tourists and locals alike in navigating fare machines and station routes, ensuring that even the most confused travelers feel supported.
“He’s always wonderful. He greets everybody, so he is first class,” said commuter Sharon Callender.
Living life with purpose
Smith began working at the station in 2017. Though the COVID-19 pandemic kept him inside the booth for a time, the return to face-to-face interaction changed everything for him.
“Happiness is an inside job,” he said. “It’s on you to decide whether or not you’re going to be happy, no matter what’s going on, what you’re going through in your life.”
Despite encouragement from his three daughters to retire, Smith has no plans of slowing down.
“They say, ‘Dad, retire, retire, retire.’ But what am I going to do? Stay home and do nothing?” he said with a chuckle. “I have this energy. I feel good. I like to wake up with a sense of purpose.”
A message that moves beyond the platform
Rodney Smith’s outlook on life is simple, yet deeply impactful.
“I wish that everyone would just be kind—be kind and sprinkle that stuff all over,” he said. “Kindness is free. That’s what I believe, and that’s how I live my life.”
In a system often defined by delays, crowded platforms, and silent stares, Smith is a welcome reminder that a smile and a kind word can make all the difference.
