The Extra Mile

MDOT Director of Preconstruction - Program Management Trudi Loflin Oct 16, 2024

MDOT Director of Preconstruction - Program Management Trudi Loflin joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about her long career at the agency and break down what her current role entails, among other topics.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Director of Preconstruction - Program Management Trudi Loflin – 00:36
Trudi's background and coming to MDOT – 01:26
What is Right of Way? – 04:11
Trudi's new role at MDOT – 05:25
What's going on in Preconstruction? – 08:12
Trudi's favorite things and lessons learned while working at MDOT – 09:35
Come Work at MDOT! – 12:04
Favorite place(s) to eat – 13:24
Favorite music/concert(s) – 14:54
Show Outro – 16:45

Secretary of State Michael Watson Oct 01, 2024

Secretary of State Michael Watson joined The Extra Mile Podcast to preview the November 5 election from his office's standpoint, provide updates on the Mississippi Secretary of State's Office initiatives, shoutout a certain Covington County-based eatery, and more.

Show intro, introducing MS Secretary of State Michael Watson – 00:36
Election Day Preparations / Relationships with Local Election Officials – 01:37
Check out free resources like yallvote.ms and My Election Day – 04:10
Mississippi's Election Security Plan – 05:50
Secretary Watson wants you to vote! – 07:59
Voter ID – 11:12
Any changes coming to voting in Mississippi? – 12:39
SOS Ambassadors Program – 16:26
Tackle the Tape – 20:18
Looking ahead to the 2025 Legislative Session – 24:46
Favorite place(s) to eat – 30:03
Favorite music/concert(s) – 32:04
Show Outro – 33:50

Speaker of the House Jason White Sep 16, 2024

Speaker of the House Jason White joined The Extra Mile Podcast to preview his Tax Reform Policy Summit on September 24, among other topics.

Show intro, introducing MS Speaker of the House Jason White – 00:26
First Legislative Session as the Speaker – 01:27
Biggest Accomplishments of Session/Since Session Ended – 02:46
The Speaker's Public Policy Summit on Tax Reform – 07:34
House Select Committees – 10:07
Trajectory of Mississippi's Economy & Tax Reform – 11:37
Register for the Speaker's Tax Reform Policy Summit: https://www.jasonwhitems.com/ – 17:10
Looking forward to 2025 Session – 22:32
Favorite place(s) to eat – 27:55
Favorite music/concert(s) – 29:13
Show Outro – 33:31

Mississippi Book Festival Executive Director Ellen Daniels Sep 10, 2024

Mississippi Book Festival Executive Director Ellen Daniels joined The Extra Mile Podcast to preview the September 14 event, talk panelists and provide her own personal book recommendations.

Show intro – 00:29
Meet Mississippi Book Festival Executive Director Ellen Daniels – 00:58
Recording on location at Mississippi Author Eudora Welty's House in Belhaven – 01:16
The 10th Anniversary of the Mississippi Book Festival – 01:45
Ellen Daniels's background – 02:37
The Mississippi Book Festival – 03:40
Authors to check out – 05:28
Moving the Mississippi Book Festival to September – 09:36
Favorite book(s) of all-time/reading right now – 13:34
Favorite place(s) to eat – 16:28
Favorite music/concert(s) – 18:12
Show Outro – 21:49

MDOT Assistant Chief Engineer Field Operations Janie Bass Aug 27, 2024

MDOT Assistant Chief Engineer - Field Operations Janie Bass joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about her role at the agency, the capacity project program, women in engineering and more.

Show intro – 00:31
Janie Bass' background at MDOT – 01:18
The MDOT Internship – 05:50
Under the Field Operations Umbrella – 06:38
Women in Transportation – 10:00
Why Engineering? – 11:40
Favorite music/concert(s) – 12:53
Favorite place(s) to eat – 14:39
Show Outro – 16:52

MDOT Director of the Office of Intermodal Planning and Highway Operations Jim Willis Aug 13, 2024

MDOT Director of the Office of Intermodal Planning and Highway Operations Jim Willis joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about his role at the agency, multimodal funding, the benefits of working at MDOT and more.

Show intro – 00:30
Jim Willis background – 01:20
Legacy of Charles Carr, former Multimodal Director at MDOT for 40+ years – 03:55
Momentum of Multimodal – 04:49
Working at MDOT – 07:05
Favorite music/concert(s) – 10:28
Favorite place(s) to eat – 13:03
Show Outro – 14:16

State Representative Fred Shanks Jul 15, 2024

State Representative Fred Shanks joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about how he got into politics, successful 2024 legislation, his thoughts on the future of the ballot initiative process and more.

· Show intro – 00:26

· Fred Shanks background/introduction into politics – 02:09

· Rep. Shanks on the influence of his father, former Jackson city commissioner and baseball coach Doug Shanks – 03:19

· 2024 Legislative Session Recap – 07:55

· Banning Squatted Trucks – 08:06

· House Bill 691 – 11:03

· Looking ahead to 2025 Legislative Session – 13:17

· Restoring the ballot initiative – 13:34

· Suffrage bills – 14:22

· Favorite place(s) to eat – 15:35

· Favorite music/concert(s) – 17:35

· Show Outro – 19:57

MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White Jul 01, 2024

MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White joined The Extra Mile Podcast to discuss a projected above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, talk about disaster anxiety, provide FAQs on MEMA and more.

· Show intro/introducing MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White – 00:29

· Projected above-normal 2024 hurricane season – 01:17

· What has MEMA done to prepare for hurricane season? – 02:10

· Resources to prepare for hurricane season – 04:01

· The First 72 Hours Are On You! – 07:43

· Don’t go outside to assess damage/Indirect fatalities – 09:40

· Contraflow Protocol – 11:43

· Keep your gas tanks at least half-full – 14:22

· FAQs – 17:10

· Social Vulnerability Index/FEMA – 18:46

· Partnership with the Department of Human Services – 22:09

· Disaster Anxiety – 22:54

· Free Resources from MDOT and MEMA – 28:29

· Favorite place(s) to eat – 30:55

· Favorite music/concert(s) – 33:40

· Show Outro – 35:00

MDOT State Maintenance Engineer Heath Patterson Jun 10, 2024

The Extra Mile Podcast team took the show on the road to Biloxi to speak with MDOT State Maintenance Engineer Heath Patterson at the State Roadeo.

Show intro/introducing MDOT State Maintenance Engineer Heath Patterson – 00:30
History of the Roadeo – 02:14
Different events of the Roadeo – 03:37
Why MDOT does the Roadeo – 04:57
Favorite events to watch – 06:24
The Biggest Competitors – 07:56
Workplace Safety – 08:52
Slow Down in Work Zones! – 10:04
Favorite place(s) to eat – 11:33
Favorite music/concert(s) – 12:47
Show Outro – 13:40

Legislative Session: MDOT Executive Director Brad White's Legislative Wrap May 22, 2024

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to break down how the agency fared during the 2024 session and provide other MDOT updates.

Show intro/Brad White intro – 00:45
Legislative session wrap-up begins (Recurring revenue) – 01:20
Money moving into projects – 03:20
Design Build Bill – 04:30
Funding – 05:20
Capacity projects – 06:05
Additional comments on wrap-up – 07:07
Favorite place(s) to eat - 08:11
Favorite music/concert(s) – 09:21
Show Outro – 10:00

Legislative Session: MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff Ely May 15, 2024

MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff Ely joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about updates on capacity projects, the MDOT leadership development program, agency recruitment efforts and much more.

Show Intro/Jeff Ely intro – 01:14
Regarding capacity projects – 02:49
One-time money put into projects – 04:15
Contraflow/Hurricane evacuation – 05:17
On professional development program – 08:16
Succession planning – 12:40
Big capacity projects – 15:40
Safety/Work zone awareness message – 19:56
Favorite place(s) to eat – 23:23
Favorite concert(s) – 24:32
Show outro – 25:36

Additionally, The Extra Mile Podcast has been selected by panelists as one of the Top 20 Mississippi News Podcasts on the web.
MORE: https://blog.feedspot.com/mississippi_news_podcasts/

Legislative Session: U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith Apr 30, 2024

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about how she got started in politics, THUD Bill funding, her January 6 experience, the link between strong transportation infrastructure and economic growth and development and much more.

Show intro/Cindy Hyde-Smith intro – 01:12
Relationship with MDOT Executive Director Brad White – 02:18
How Cindy Hyde-Smith got into politics - 03:07
First impressions on being in office - 04:58
Memorable moments/stories from D.C. – 07:58
Committees/plans - 12:22
Pine Beetle issues - 15:50
Other committee focuses – 17:48
On visiting home of MS – 20:36
Regarding Mike Johnson - 21:57
Big accomplishments/Bills - 23:09
COVID times – 24:38
Nursing shortage – 28:55
Transportation Network importance - 31:22
Favorite place(s) to eat in MS – 33:12
Favorite concert(s) - 35:38
Show Outro – 36:27

Legislative Session: Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons Apr 10, 2024

Transportation Commission Chairman Willie Simmons joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about the need for recurring revenue for Mississippi highways, anti-litter efforts, current projects and future projects possible with more funding.

Show Intro/Willie Simmons intro – 01:14
Willie Simmons on being Chairman – 01:54
Conversation plan of Conference - 03:04
Talks/plans with Legislature – 05:08
Greenville Bypass – 09:32
Other Projects – 12:07
Willie Simmons on littering issue – 14:29
Willie Simmons on lighting – 18:27
Work Zone Awareness Week – 19:55
Willie Simmons new place(s) to eat – 23:52
Groundbreaking Ceremony – 25:25
Show Outro – 25:57

Legislative Session: State Treasurer David McRae Apr 02, 2024

State Treasurer David McRae joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about his path to public service, promote the Unclaimed Property Program, provide his thoughts on PERS and much more.

Show Intro/ State Treasurer David McRae intro – 01:14
David McRae background/position – 01:42
Highlights/Big projects as the Treasurer - 04:37
Unclaimed Property/Other Programs – 05:55
College savings Program/Opportunities - 12:15
Starting a College Savings Program - 17:15
Importance of Customer Service - 17:50
MS Constitution Counting Statement - 18:58
The Vault – 19:56
The PERS Board - 21:12
Healthcare & Pension for state employees - 23:31
Understanding Personal Finance - 24:14
Legislative agendas - 26:17
Greatest Accomplishment as Treasurer - 28:23
David McRae’s favorite place(s) to eat – 30:17
David McRae’s favorite concert(s) – 32:14
Show Outro – 34:49

Legislative Session: State Senator Joel Carter Mar 19, 2024

State Senator Joel Carter joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about how he got into politics, updates from the Energy Committee, his favorite place to grab a bite to eat during the session and more.

Show intro/State Senator Joel Carter – 01:15
Joel Carter background/Journey to politics – 02:06
The benefit of working in the food industry – 04:39
Energy Committee update – 05:22
Timetable with Nuclear – 06:49
Main topics of Legislature – 07:24
Gulf Coast District Projects – 08:10
Joel Carter on Buc-ee’s – 09:08
Other Projects – 09:42
Coast Bounce back from Katrina – 10:25
Joel Carter’s favorite place(s) to eat – 11:48
Joel Carter’s favorite musician(s)/concert(s) – 12:34
Additional comments to constituents – 13:45
Show outro – 14:10

Legislative Session: MDOT Executive Director Brad White Mar 12, 2024

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to provide an update on efforts to find recurring revenue for Mississippi highways among other topics.

Show Intro/Brad White Intro – 01:15
Brad White speaking tour/goals – 01:50
Plans/Conversations for revenue – 04:35
Brad White on Legislative support – 07:40
Removing Obstacles/Confidence – 08:26
Bill supporting Design Build Process – 09:54
Capacity Program/Needs – 11:44
Conversations on Sports betting/Lottery – 15:07
Working at MDOT/Job postings – 16:15
Show Outro – 19:35

Legislative Session: MDOT Alternative Program Deliveries Division Director Jessica Dilley Mar 05, 2024

MDOT Alternative Program Deliveries Division Director Jessica Dilley joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to explain the benefits of alternative delivery transportation projects.

Show Intro/Jessica Dilley Intro – 01:13
Jessica Dilley history/New Position in MDOT – 03:06
Jessica Dilley on Design Build Projects – 04:10
Design Build Project vs Alternative delivery – 06:17
Alternative delivery project examples – 08:34
Hurricane Katrina impact on projects/lessons learned – 09:26
Retouching on limitations – 10:44
Legislation action/Caps – 12:06
Electric Vehicle Charging stations – 12:40
MDOT’s role in project – 13:30
Project Timeline/Mapping – 14:18
Number of Stations – 15:32
Women’s Transportation Seminar – 16:29
Jessica Dilley’s favorite place(s) to eat – 19:41
Jessica Dilley’s favorite concert(s) – 21:08
Jessica Dilley’s first car – 22:05
Show Outro – 23:27

Legislative Session: Southern District Transportation Commissioner Charles Busby Feb 27, 2024

Southern District Transportation Commissioner Charles Busby joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk his first two months as Commissioner, the future of transportation funding in Mississippi and more.

Show into/Charles Busby Intro – 01:15
Charles Busby Update/Project plans – 02:06
Legislature/Relationship with Steve Massengill – 04:05
Recurring revenue/Research – 04:28
Program Sources/Funding – 05:35
Focused efforts for recurring revenue – 07:50
How that revenue is used – 08:54
Charles Busby Current (Coast) Projects – 10:22
Other Projects (Buc-ee’s) – 11:14
What Charles Busby looks forward to as Commissioner – 13:00
Tap Grants/Comradery with other cities– 13:44
Charles Busby’s attention to Legislature – 15:32
Charles Busby favorite/new place(s) to eat – 16:55
Favorite concert(s) – 18:05
First car – 19:10
Show Outro – 19:59

Legislative Session: Commissioner of Agriculture & Commerce Andy Gipson Feb 20, 2024

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to discuss his recent op-ed in support of additional transportation funding, provide updates on The Dixie National Rodeo and more.

Show Intro/Andy Gipson Introduction – 01:15
Rodeo update/review – 02:02
Mississippi AG and Outdoor Expo – 03:00
Andy Gipson and MDOT Partnership on Sustainable Revenue – 04:10
Current focuses of the AG department – 06:11
Drought/Pine Beetle Crisis – 07:54
Cattle Theft – 12:15
Back-water pumps – 13:25
Mike Mathis Memorial – 15:05
Dixie national trademark Steakhouse – 15:59
Sale of Champions/Expectations – 16:42
Andy Gipson’s favorite place(s) to eat – 18:55
Andy Gipson’s favorite concert(s) – 20:13
Show Outro – 21:28

Legislative Session: State Representative Steve Massengill Feb 13, 2024

State Representative Steve Massengill joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to introduce himself and talk about his new role as House Transportation Committee Chairman.

Show intro/Steve Massengill intro – 01:15
Steve Massengill position specifics – 03:14
Steve Massengill districts – 04:14
Differences as Chairman – 04:50
Big projects/Focused efforts – 05:27
Sustainable revenue conversations – 07:29
Legislative agenda/State affairs – 08:20
Roundabout Hwy 72 – 09:30
New committee members – 10:14
Steve Massengill extra Legislative comments – 11:24
Steve Massengill favorite concert(s) – 12:37
Steve Massengill favorite place(s) to eat – 14:03
Steve Massengill’s love for cars/favorite(s) – 15:00
Show outro – 16:16

Legislative Session: State Senator Jenifer Branning Feb 06, 2024

State Senator Jenifer Branning joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to provide updates on transportation-specific legislative happenings and other priorities for the 2024 session.

Show intro, introducing State Senator Jenifer Branning – 01:18
Jenifer Branning recap of Legislative Session so far – 02:05
Jenifer Branning addressing new senate members – 02:48
The hearing on transportation/revenue for transportation – 03:35
Ideas for achieving revenue dedicated to transportation – 05:43
ERBR/Multimodal fund – 06:48
Other bills related to transportation – 08:40
Jenifer Branning’s districts – 10:42
Major projects – 11:13
Favorite music/Family of musicians – 12:30
Favorite place(s) to eat/Love for cooking – 13:50
Show outro – 14:52

Legislative Session: Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Earl Glenn Jan 29, 2024

MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Earl Glenn joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to introduce himself and break down the agency's response to January's winter weather.

Show intro, introducing Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Earl Glenn – 01:15
Earl Glenn background/experience – 02:07
Earl Glenn taking over as Chief Engineer – 06:10
DOT preparation for winter/severe weather events – 07:03
Stories of MDOT first responders – 10:30
Lessons learned from previous storms – 11:28
Snow vs Ice – 12:48
Staff/Resources – 14:16
Southern vs Northern States – 15:21
Favorite place(s) to eat – 17:10
Favorite concert(s) – 18:02
Show outro – 19:12

Legislative Session: MS Speaker of the House Jason White Jan 17, 2024

Mississippi Speaker of the House Jason White joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about his path to public service, outline legislative priorities, namedrop some of his favorite Mississippi eateries and more.

Show intro, introducing MS Speaker of the House Jason White - 01:36
Jason White's background - 02:30
Overview of Jason White's path to Speaker in the legislature- 07:58
Transportation-related legislative items coming up - 12:50
Impact of MDOT managing its appropriated funds - 15:54
Regarding the future of PERS - 19:05
On the income tax - 22:33
Other legislative priorities - 24:15
Favorite place(s) to eat - 29:04
Favorite musical concert(s) - 31:13
Show outro - 33:45

Legislative Session: MDOT Executive Director Brad White Jan 08, 2024

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to discuss the top priorities for the agency during the 2024 legislative session among other topics.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 01:17
Mississippi Transportation Commission updates - 02:10
Overview of staff changes at MDOT - 03:37
What the beginning of a legislative session is like - 06:30
On sustainable funding for MDOT operations - 07:26
Other priorities for the legislative session - 11:03
How appropriated funds from the legislature get spent through MDOT - 12:09
Regarding legislative earmarks - 14:10
Brad White's New Year's resolution(s) - 15:44
Family member in music - 16:28
Show outro - 18:14

Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney Nov 16, 2023

Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney joined The Extra Mile Podcast to provide an overview of his department, discuss tie-ins with MDOT, talk about a recent visit to a Willie Nelson concert and more.

Show intro, introducing Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney - 01:41
Plans for Thanksgiving - 02:50
What the Mississippi Insurance Department handles - 04:10
Eudora Welty Library situation - 06:56
Regulation of the State Health Plan - 09:56
Insurance Department upcoming priorities - 10:58
Regarding mortgage rates - 13:21
On Mississippi transportation - 16:30
State elected official Vietnam veterans - 18:07
How the Insurance Department works with MDOT - 21:40
Deer safety - 22:47
Against littering - 26:21
Favorite place(s) to eat - 28:29
Favorite music - 30:01
Show outro - 32:10

Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann Nov 02, 2023

Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann joined The Extra Mile podcast to discuss the 5th anniversary of the completion of I-269 and more.

Show intro, introducing Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann - 01:23
Lt. Governor Hosemann's November plans - 03:03
Progress for education in Mississippi - 03:47
Reflecting on this year's infrastructure investment - 06:48
Upgrades to State Parks - 07:48
Mississippi financial improvements - 08:45
Regarding litter - 11:10
Museum to Market Trail - 13:54
Looking ahead to the next legislative session - 16:00
Strategic infrastructure investments with MDOT - 21:50
Impact of I-269 project - 24:12
Lt. Governor Hosemann's hopes for MDOT projects - 24:31
Notes on Mississippi's growth and success - 27:35
Usual place(s) to eat - 33:10
Favorite entertainment in Mississippi - 34:49
Show outro - 37:54

Biloxi Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich Oct 05, 2023

Biloxi Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk Cruisin' the Coast, working with MDOT at the local level, his days playing in a rock and roll band and much more.

Show intro, introducing Biloxi Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich - 01:22
On Mayor Gilich's background - 02:57
Why the nickname "FoFo" - 03:54
Important visitors from Croatia - 05:25
Charm of Biloxi - 07:36
On Cruisin' the Coast - 10:39
Tourism and lodging in Biloxi - 13:24
Local partnership with MDOT - 15:40
Regarding the I-110 bridge - 16:35
Clean-up related to Katrina - 17:37
Importance of hurricane preparedness - 23:09
Project to widen I-10 - 26:09
Working with MDOT leadership - 28:10
Favorite music - 29:06
Favorite concert - 31:24
Favorite place(s) to eat - 32:20
Events around Biloxi City Hall - 35:03
Show outro - 36:28

MDOT State Safety Engineer Mark Thomas Sep 21, 2023

MDOT State Safety Engineer Mark Thomas joined The Extra Mile podcast to give an overview of the Highway Safety Division, talk about the Buckle Up Phone Down campaign, promote roundabouts and more.

Show intro, introducing MDOT State Safety Engineer Mark Thomas - 01:35
About the Highway Safety Division - 02:39
How the Highway Safety Division gets involved in safety improvement projects - 04:02
On pedestrian safety - 05:44
Pedestrians on the interstate - 07:09
Types of Highway Safety Division projects - 08:25
Regarding roundabouts - 10:14
Example of an effective MS roundabout - 12:02
Safety education activities - 14:15
Buckle Up Phone Down campaign - 17:25
Favorite place(s) to eat - 24:11
Favorite music - 25:43
Favorite concert - 26:23
Show outro - 27:57

Accelerate MS Executive Director Ryan Miller Sep 07, 2023

Accelerate MS Executive Director Ryan Miller joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about the exciting work his office is doing in the realm of workforce development among other topics.

Show intro, introducing Accelerate MS Executive Director Ryan Miller - 01:28
What Accelerate MS does - 02:41
Ryan Miller's background - 03:39
Second annual MS Horizons Workforce Symposium - 07:17
Current focus for Accelerate MS - 09:26
On Accelerate MS successes so far - 11:21
Regarding Workforce Enhancement Training (WET) Funds - 12:11
Accelerate MS's future approach structure - 14:28
Challenges Accelerate MS faces in accomplishing goals - 19:02
Transportation related career growth - 25:04
How Accelerate MS relates to economic development - 28:02
Top careers with needs and growth - 31:02
Favorite current music - 35:58
Favorite concert(s) - 37:30
Favorite place(s) to eat around Mississippi - 39:53
Show outro - 42:02

State LPA Engineer Lee Frederick Aug 24, 2023

MDOT State LPA Engineer Lee Frederick joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about how his division helps to facilitate countless local, public projects across Mississippi among other topics.

Show intro, introducing MDOT State LPA Engineer Lee Frederick - 01:28
What LPA means - 02:51
How MDOT works with local public agencies - 04:32
Types of LPA projects - 06:03
LPA division team - 06:47
Why you would want to work for MDOT - 09:50
Lee Frederick's favorite LPA projects - 14:06
Transportation Alternatives (TA) program - 16:05
Other upcoming projects - 17:07
Litter in Mississippi - 18:34
Favorite place(s) to eat around Jackson - 19:05
Top restaurants outside of Jackson - 20:13
Favorite music - 21:43
Favorite concert - 23:14
Lee Frederick's Mississippi summer travel spots - 24:03
MDOT's free travel resources - 25:18
Show outro - 28:04

MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White Aug 10, 2023

MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about the importance of preparedness as we enter peak hurricane season along with other topics.

Show intro, introducing MEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White - 01:32
About the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) - 02:28
What Malary White does at MEMA - 04:32
How MEMA approaches peak hurricane season - 07:30
On hurricane preparedness - 10:00
MEMA resources, including their app - 12:40
Overview of contraflow - 17:12
Lessons learned from past events - 19:06
Clarifying common MEMA misconceptions - 22:20
Hurricane season predictions - 24:16
Favorite place(s) to eat - 27:38
Favorite music and concert - 28:26
Favorite summer travel spots - 29:52
Show outro - 31:47

State Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds Jul 27, 2023

State Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds joined The Extra Mile podcast on location at the Neshoba County Fair to talk Mississippi's Giant House Party, highlight 2023 legislative accomplishments/discuss future priorities and drop favorite summer travel destinations.

Show intro, introducing State Representative Scott Bounds - 01:07
What's going on at the Neshoba County Fair - 02:06
Speech preview - 05:50
Prep for the fair - 08:10
Reviewing the 2023 legislative session - 09:45
Future legislation aims - 10:50
Marty Stuart's Congress of Country Music - 13:09
Favorite Neshoba County Fair concert - 16:02
Introducing State Senator Jenifer Branning - 19:19
What Fair events Senator Branning is looking forward to - 20:58
Highlights from 2023 legislative session - 22:14
Upcoming legislative goals - 24:35
Summer fun in Senate District 18 - 25:20
Senator Branning's favorite summer travel destinations - 27:15
Favorite Neshoba County Fair concert - 28:42
Show outro - 30:34

Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. Jul 13, 2023

The Extra Mile Podcast made a return trip to Vicksburg to visit with Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. to talk transportation projects in the area, the Dick Hall Welcome Center, city happenings and more.

Show intro, introducing Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. - 01:12
July 4 in Vicksburg - 03:01
Regarding the Miss Mississippi Pageant - 04:14
Vicksburg pickleball and goat yoga opportunities - 05:31
On the Dick Hall Welcome Center - 07:46
Improvements to I-20 Flowers Interchange - 09:03
I-20 frontage road extension and bridge repair - 13:04
Port update - 14:11
City's litter management - 15:25
Favorite place(s) to eat - 19:00
Favorite summer trip - 20:57
Favorite music - 21:57
Show outro - 23:07

Ardenland Owner Arden Barnett Jun 29, 2023

Our summer travel theme continued on The Extra Mile Podcast as the team visited with concert promoter Arden Barnett, owner of Ardenland!

Show intro, introducing concert promoter and owner of Ardenland Arden Barnett - 00:37
About Duling Hall - 01:37
How Arden got into music - 03:00
Why Duling Hall's location matters for music - 05:05
Importance of transportation network for shows - 06:16
Cathead Jam - 08:59
Upcoming event at MSU Riley Center - 10:08
Keath Killebrew Memorial Rodeo - 11:40
Regarding litter - 13:37
Favorite place(s) to eat - 15:46
Favorite music - 16:50
Show outro - 19:35

State Senator Lydia Chassaniol Jun 15, 2023

State Senator Lydia Chassaniol, Chair of the Senate Tourism Committee, joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about summer travel destinations in the great State of Mississippi.

Show intro, state Senator Lydia Chassaniol - 00:35
About the building and location - 01:26
Senator Chassaniol's service history - 02:58
On the Mississippi culinary travel project - 03:45
Promoting town to town marketing - 07:57
Recent trip to Ocean Springs - 11:52
Regarding a visit to Laurel - 13:55
Favorite place to eat - 16:25
Favorite music - 19:21
Passion for art - 22:23
Show outro - 23:54

Coast Transit Authority Executive Director Kevin Coggin May 24, 2023

Kevin Coggin, Executive Director of the Coast Transit Authority, joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about his organization, the need for public transit, the importance of hurricane preparedness and more.

Show intro, introducing Coast Transit Authority Executive Director Kevin Coggin - 00:36
On the Gulfport Transit Center building - 01:15
What is the Coast Transit Authority - 03:29
Van pool operations - 05:54
How the Coast Transit Authority relates to MDOT - 06:51
Recent funding for multimodal transportation - 08:29
Experience during Hurricane Katrina - 09:59
Response to hurricanes - 12:34
Lessons learned from Katrina - 13:51
Importance of a hurricane plan - 15:20
Future challenges for transit - 20:11
Autonomous and EV type vehicles for transit - 21:18
Favorite place(s) to eat - 22:57
Favorite music - 24:56
Show outro - 25:33

MDOT Engineers Colby Kimmel & Jessica Dilley May 11, 2023

Colby Kimmel, Assistant Chief Engineer - Pre-construction, and Jessica Dilley, Assistant State Planning Engineer, joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk women in engineering, why they got in to the field, the benefits of working at MDOT and more.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Engineers Colby Kimmel and Jessica Dilley - 00:38
Beginnings at MDOT - 03:07
Regarding the Women in Transportation Seminar Mississippi group - 04:26
WTS Social Media - 10:00
Why Colby Kimmel decided to become an engineer - 10:10
Contact details for WTS and STEM video resources - 11:36
What drew Jessica Dilley to engineering - 14:17
Why girls should study engineering - 16:16
Importance of diversity in teams at MDOT - 20:20
Reasons why MDOT is a great place to work - 23:02
Favorite place(s) to eat - 27:22
Show outro - 30:22

Legislative Session: MDOT Executive Director Brad White Apr 13, 2023

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session on location at the Mississippi Capitol to recap a successful 2023 Legislative Session.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 00:31
On the State Capitol room setting - 01:16
2023 legislative session impact for MDOT - 02:18
Importance of multimodal investment - 05:55
Dick Hall welcome center - 08:02
Funding for capacity project highlights - 09:47
Current MDOT priorities - 13:38
Response to recent storms - 17:04
Favorite place(s) to eat - 19:47
Favorite music - 20:31
Updates on Will's family - 21:41
Show outro - 22:41

Legislative Session: Assistant Attorney General Roy Tipton Apr 06, 2023

Assistant Attorney General Roy Tipton joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to tell fun stories and anecdotes from his 31 years of service at MDOT.

Show intro, introducing Assistant Attorney General Roy Tipton - 00:30
Professional experience prior to MDOT - 01:25
Beginnings at MDOT - 03:00
Government career versus private practice - 03:44
Why working for MDOT is great - 05:12
Demonstrative evidence for a cofferdam - 06:46
First design contract with MDOT for the Greenville bridge - 09:00
Tanglefoot Trail and Long Leaf Trace railroads projects - 12:16
Selling a helicopter - 14:02
Favorite food place(s) - 15:50
What's next for Roy Tipton - 18:06
Show outro - 19:14

Legislative Session: State Representative Manly Barton Mar 30, 2023

State Representative Manly Barton joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about how he got into public service, serving in the Vietnam War, chairing the Local and Private Legislation Committee and more.

Show intro, introducing State Representative Manly Barton - 00:29
How Representative Barton became a public servant - 01:20
Where we're at in the 2023 legislative session - 02:52
Serving in the Vietnam War - 04:29
Overview of the Local and Private Legislation Committee - 08:14
On career and technical training in Mississippi - 12:14
About the Career Coaches Program - 16:22
Four-lane Highway 57 project - 19:30
Representative Barton's favorite place(s) to eat - 23:21
Show outro - 26:06

Legislative Session: State Senator Rita Potts Parks Mar 23, 2023

State Senator Rita Potts Parks joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk transportation legislation, break down a nurse retention bill, explain the origins of the famous Slugburger and more.

Show intro, introducing State Senator Rita Potts Parks - 00:30
Why Senator Potts Parks decided to run for public office - 01:21
Senator Potts Parks' business background - 02:18
Comments on the current status of the 2023 legislative session - 03:34
Transportation infrastructure legislation progress - 05:05
Explanation of Hospital Nurses Retention Loan Repayment Program - 07:52
Updates on redesign of HELP Grant and MTAG programs - 9:00
Transportation projects in Alcorn and Tippah counties Senator Potts Parks is watching - 10:58
Favorite place to eat - 11:59
About the Slugburger - 12:22
Contact information - 14:18
Show outro - 14:40

Legislative Session: MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff Ely Mar 10, 2023

MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff Ely joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to break down his role at the agency, discuss funding, talk about the benefits of working at MDOT and more.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff Ely - 00:30
Jeff Ely's career with MDOT - 01:39
Overview of what the MDOT Chief of Staff does - 02:49
What life is like working at MDOT - 04:22
On the Governor's $1.3 billion proposal - 07:35
Updates on the recent legislative funding proposals - 09:50
Election campaign sign policies and considerations along roads - 11:21
Regarding the legislative hearing on roads and bridges - 14:13
Favorite place to eat - 15:41
Show outro - 17:04

Legislative Session: State Representative Charles Busby Mar 02, 2023

State Representative Charles Busby joined The Extra Mile: Legislative Session to give an overview of transportation legislation during the 2023 session, discuss the future of transportation, talk about MDOT projects on the Coast and more.

Show intro, introducing State Representative Charles Busby - 00:29
Update what's happening in the session as of March 1 - 01:23
Overview of transportation legislation during the 2023 session - 03:20
Conversation and legislation involving electric autonomous vehicles - 07:08
Importance of thinking about the future of transportation now - 10:12
More on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund and what's next for the program - 12:37
Projects going on in Jackson County and the other Coastal counties - 14:06
New Welcome Center on I-10 - 16:06
Wrapping up his time as Chairman of the House Transportation Committee - 16:57
Favorite new place to eat - 19:10
Contact information - 20:36
Show outro - 21:16

Legislative Session: Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell Feb 23, 2023

Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to provide an overview of DPS, highlight upgrades to the Driver's License Services program, talk about partnering with MDOT and other agencies and more.

Show intro, introducing MS Dept. of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell - 00:29
Commissioner Tindell's career and how he got into public service - 01:30
School Guardian Act legislation - 04:30
Overview of what DPS does - 06:57
Law enforcement team members at DPS - 10:04
Driver's License Services program upgrades - 11:54
Changes to firearm permits procedures - 13:11
Autonomous vehicles legal considerations - 14:04
Partnerships with other agencies - 17:24
Activities to combat human trafficking - 18:50
Commissioner Tindell's favorite place(s) to eat - 21:12
Show outro - 23:09

Legislative Session: State Senator Jenifer Branning Feb 16, 2023

State Senator Jenifer Branning joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative session to talk autonomous vehicles, the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund, the Dick Hall Welcome Center and more.

Show intro, introducing State Senator Jenifer Branning - 00:29
Where we're at in the 2023 legislative session - 02:01
Legislation Senator Branning is watching - 03:25
Dick Hall Welcome Center in Vicksburg - 04:07
Latest on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 05:20
Thoughts on a sustainable funding mechanism for transportation infrastructure - 07:45
On the future of the user fee for electric vehicles - 08:50
Autonomous vehicles at the Capitol during the session - 09:20
MDOT projects going on in Senator Branning's district - 10:44
Economic development project in Lowndes County, tie between transportation and economic growth and development - 11:33
On Senator Branning's home cooking and new favorite place(s) to eat - 13:13
Best cook in the legislature besides Senator Branning - 15:53
Show outro - 16:56

Legislative Session: Governor Tate Reeves Feb 09, 2023

Governor Tate Reeves joined MDOT Executive Director Brad White for a special episode of The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about the link between a strong transportation infrastructure network and economic growth and development along with other topics.

Show intro, introducing Governor Tate Reeves - 00:29
The history of the Mississippi Governor's Mansion - 00:47
On the COVID pandemic and other emergencies the governor has dealt with - 01:52
The importance of having a competent staff to move from issue to issue quickly - 04:07
On the importance of transportation infrastructure and its impact on economic growth and development - 04:30
Restarting the capacity projects after being in maintenance mode - 09:46
Besides transportation, other priorities for Gov. Reeves during the 2023 legislative session - 11:14
On Gov. Reeves' family and their athletic pursuits - 13:42
Thanking Brad and MDOT for working with legislative branch and executive branch to advance transportation infrastructure in Mississippi - 14:41
Show outro - 15:56

Legislative Session: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson Feb 02, 2023

Agriculture and Commerce Commissioner Andy Gipson joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to preview the Dixie National Rodeo, talk legislation affecting his agency, tout a record number of Mississippi agriculture commodities and more.

Show intro, introducing Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson - 00:27
Miss being in the legislature? - 01:45
Preview of the Dixie National Rodeo - 02:39
Musical guests/entertainment lineup for the Dixie National Rodeo - 03:56
On the new Trade Mart - 05:04
Legislation that Commissioner Gipson and the Department of Agriculture and Commerce are watching - 08:31
On the problem of cattle theft in Mississippi - 12:04
The record number of Mississippi agriculture commodities - 14:01
Mississippi's catfish production - 15:58
On Mississippi's national poultry production rank - 17:01
Highlighting the agency's Petroleum Inspection Division - 18:51
Favorite fair food? - 20:07
Show outro - 21:42

Legislative Session: State Representative Chris Bell Jan 26, 2023

State Representative Chris Bell joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about why he ran for office, the importance of having a strong transportation network, bipartisanship and more.

Show intro, introducing State Representative Chris Bell - 00:28
Why run for public office and become an elected official? - 01:27
How did Rep. Bell get down to Mississippi from Chicago? - 02:33
On the different committees that he is a member of - 03:26
On the measures going through the legislature, including a focus on the City of Jackson - 04:24
An update on what's going on with tourism in Mississippi - 05:19
Important legislation to Rep. Chris Bell including a public transit bill - 05:59
Bipartisanship in the Mississippi legislature? - 08:30
On the importance of having a strong transportation network in the state - 09:25
Favorite place or new place to grab a bite to eat - 10:37
Any other message for Rep. Bell's constituents - 12:12
Contact information for Rep. Bell - 13:14
Show wrapup and outro - 13:54

Legislative Session: Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann Jan 23, 2023

Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to discuss transportation infrastructure and other priorities during the 2023 session.

Show intro, introducing Lieutenant Government Delbert Hosemann - 00:29
Reflecting on last year's legislation for MDOT, thoughts on gap between appropriations and projects beginning - 01:53
Explainer on the first deadline of the 2023 legislative session - 06:48
Any other transportation infrastructure-related topics of interest during the 2023 legislative session? - 08:35
Other priorities besides transportation this session - 11:58
Focus on getting water and sewer repairs done around the state - 16:13
On the rural broadband expansion rollout - 18:04
Major accomplishments during first term as Lieutenant Governor - 19:15
Favorite new place you've been to eat in the last year? - 24:03

Legislative Session: Speaker of the House Philip Gunn Jan 12, 2023

Speaker of the House Philip Gunn joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to discuss priorities during the 2023 session, talk income tax, reflect on his career as Speaker and more.

Show intro, introducing Speaker of the House Philip Gunn - 00:28
Looking back at a successful 2022 legislative session for MDOT - 01:38
Anything going on in the House with MDOT and transportation infrastructure this session - 06:38
Conversations regarding the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 08:15
On what's happening with the income tax - 08:38
Highlights and greatest accomplishments as Mississippi House Speaker - 12:40
A pitch to visit Mississippi and give us a chance - 15:52
What's next after finishing term as Speaker? - 17:20
Any new restaurants or food places discovered in the past year - 18:19
How can constituents get in contact with Speaker Gunn? - 21:58
Show outro - 23:06

Legislative Session: Associated Press Reporter Emily Wagster Pettus Jan 05, 2023

Associated Press Reporter Emily Wagster Pettus joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to preview the 2023 Legislative Session.

Show intro, introducing Associated Press Reporter Emily Wagster Pettus - 00:28
How did Emily Wagster Pettus get into journalism? - 01:30
Why become a political reporter in particular? - 02:14
Look forward to the session every year? - 02:56
On the changing media landscape and how information now gets dispersed - 03:19
Any memories of covering MDOT over the years? - 04:40
On the differences with a legislative session during an election year - 05:57
What's going on with MDOT during the 2023 legislative session? - 07:29
Anticipated big storylines during the 2023 legislative session - 08:55
Favorite stories while covering Mississippi politics - 12:18
On what's happening with the income tax - 13:19
Favorite place to eat while out traveling Mississippi highways? Favorite place to eat in Jackson during the session? - 15:34
Show outro - 17:38

MDOT Executive Director Brad White Dec 18, 2022

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile podcast to recap the 2022 calendar year for the agency and look ahead to 2023, including the upcoming legislative session.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 00:14
Looking back at 2022 including the legislative session, funding and salary adjustments - 01:01
Looking ahead to major projects in 2023 - 02:44
On extra money from legislature, inflation and how this funding is helping to keep projects on track and escalate a few tracks - 03:52
On the 2023 legislative session and what to expect for MDOT - 04:37
The difference when it comes to an election year legislative session - 06:05
Conversation about a long-term, sustainable revenue source for transportation infrastructure - 07:28
Other things on the horizon, reiterating the focus on salary adjustments - 09:30
Will and Paul's favorite guests and moments of the podcast in 2022 - 10:16
Tease of legislative session episodes, going back to weekly during the session - 12:17
Everyone's holiday traditions - 12:48
Show outro - 14:31

Central District Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons Dec 05, 2022

Central District Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about his career in public service, the importance of a rural transportation network, Central District projects and much more.

Show intro, introducing Central District Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons - 00:27
Commissioner Simmons background and why he ran for state senator and transportation commissioner - 01:13
How Commissioner Simmons got interested in serving on the transportation committee in the state senate - 02:23
On working with Commissioner Tom King and the late Commissioner Dick Hall in the state senate - 03:37
Commissioner Simmons' interest in rural transportation needs - 04:35
On MDOT's broad transportation network - 06:58
Highlighting major projects in the Central District - 09:06
On the success of the lottery and its funding for MDOT - 11:51
Impact of quality infrastructure on economic growth and development - 14:22
On being the first African American statewide elected official - 17:20
On the best place to grab a bite to eat when out traveling on Mississippi highways - 21:10
Show outro - 24:13

District 7 Engineer Albert White Nov 21, 2022

District 7 Engineer Albert White joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about his inspirational health journey, the MDOT family, projects in southwest Mississippi, the impact of lottery funding and more.

Show intro, introducing District 7 Engineer Albert White - 00:27
Background information on District Engineer Albert White - 01:11
On his career at MDOT and what led him to become a district engineer - 01:34
Other stops besides District 7 in Albert White's MDOT career - 03:03
What things have kept him at MDOT for such a long time? - 05:24
The family nature of working at MDOT - 06:31
Most memorable projects working on during his time at MDOT - 07:20
Projects currently going on in District 7 - 10:21
Impact of lottery funding, inflation - 12:33
On Albert White's health journey - 14:12
Favorite places to eat while out traveling on Mississippi highways - 18:08
Show outro - 20:10

Southern District Transportation Commissioner Tom King Nov 16, 2022

MDOT Southern District Transportation Commissioner Tom King joined The Extra Mile podcast to announce his retirement at the end of the current term, reflect on a 31-year career in public service and look ahead to what’s next.

Show intro, introducing Southern District Transportation Commissioner Tom King - 00:30
Commissioner Tom King announces his retirement at the end of the current term - 1:25
Reflecting on 31-years of public service in the military, state senate, state house and transportation commission - 02:07
Looking back on favorite memories during his career as an elected official - 03:01
On signature legislation including the John Paul Frerer Bicycle Safety Act - 03:58
On what he's looking forward to in his last year at Southern District Transportation Commissioner - 04:58
Any particular memories you're proud of as a transportation commissioner, implementation of lottery for transportation funding - 05:40
On hiring MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 06:27
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when traveling on Mississippi highways - 07:25
Thanking Commissioner King for his service as transportation commissioner - 08:20
Show outro - 09:39

Northern District Transportation Commissioner John Caldwell Nov 07, 2022

Northern District Transportation Commissioner John Caldwell joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about Veterans Day, challenges facing MDOT, the importance of getting out into the district to see projects and meet constituents and more.

Show intro, introducing Northern District Transportation Commissioner John Caldwell - 00:28
Background information on Commissioner Caldwell - 1:00
Why he decided to run for transportation commissioner - 01:19
On Commissioner Caldwell's military service and how it impacts his current job - 01:48
Commissioner Caldwell on the importance of Veterans Day - 02:37
What's going on in the Northern District? - 05:08
The challenges that MDOT faces and how to tackle them - 06:57
The state lottery and how that's helped out with funding - 08:29
How inflation has impacted MDOT and construction/maintenance - 10:27
On getting out on the interstates and highways to check out projects and meet with constituents - 11:25
Commissioner Caldwell's book “Semper Odyssey – Conflicts of a Marine Reservist” - 12:31
On the public's perception of MDOT projects' timelines - 14:57
Special session on economic development project and how transportation ties into that - 15:52
Any other message to get out to Northern District constituents - 16:30
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when out traveling Mississippi highways - 18:56
Show outro - 21:34

Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill Oct 24, 2022

Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about her career and path to becoming mayor, MDOT projects in the city, the explosion of growth in Starkville and more.

Show intro, introducing Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill - 00:27
Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill on her career and why she ran for mayor - 01:08
First woman in the history of the Airforce to qualify as Carrier Pilot - 05:34
On the second time being a mayor with the first being in Addison, Texas - 05:48
MDOT projects going on in the City of Starkville - 09:05
The importance of partnerships when it comes to things like transportation infrastructure and economic development - 12:39
Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill on the explosion of growth in Starkville - 13:53
How the City of Starkville deals with game day traffic - 16:10
On SMART, Starkville's public transit system - 18:09
Big events coming up in the City of Starkville - 20:20
Favorite places to grab a bite to eat in the City of Starkville - 22:57
Show outro - 26:14

Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill Oct 03, 2022

Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about why she ran for mayor, MDOT projects in the city, the Double Decker Arts Festival, the explosion of growth in Oxford and more.

Show intro, introducing Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill - 00:29
Why did she run for Mayor of Oxford? - 01:41
On the many roundabouts in Oxford and why they work for the city - 03:58
Any other MDOT projects that Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill wants to highlight - 06:34
On the explosion of growth in the City of Oxford - 07:35
On the "We Get to Live Here" hashtag - 09:20
Gameday traffic and parking - 09:49
On the public transit system in Oxford - 11:39
Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill on creating the Double Decker Arts Festival - 13:50
On the mayor's favorite place to eat in Oxford or when she's traveling outside of the city - 16:15
What's the secret sauce for Oxford, Mississippi? - 17:30
Plug for Holly Jolly Holidays in Oxford - 18:19
Show outro - 18:58

State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in Laurel Sep 26, 2022

MDOT District 6 Engineer Kelly Castleberry joined The Extra Mile podcast to give an overview of the proposed State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in Laurel.

Show intro, introducing MDOT District 6 Engineer Kelly Castleberry - 00:28
An overview of the State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in Laurel from Kelly Castleberry - 01:07
Third-most accident prone corridor in the state and other statistics - 02:03
Reading out statistics that back up why this project needs to be done - 02:45
Highways with center turn lane outdated? - 03:38
On similar projects around the state such as State Route 12 in Starkville - 04:57
Next step in the State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in Laurel? - 06:39
Timeline of construction - 07:23
Reiterating that safety is the reason for the project - 08:27
Final message to the public on the State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project - 08:38
Show outro - 09:33

Former Governor Haley Barbour Sep 19, 2022

Former Governor Haley Barbour joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about his political career, Hurricane Katrina recovery stories, the link between transportation infrastructure and economic development, tort reform and more.

Show intro, introducing former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour - 00:31
More information on Governor Barbour's career including why he ran for office - 01:00
On memorable Hurricane Katrina stories, which happened during Gov. Barbour's administration - 04:30
MDOT crews as first responders during disasters like Hurricane Katrina - 08:38
On the debris left by Hurricane Katrina - 11:42
On Marsha Barbour's (Governor's wife) role in Hurricane Katrina recovery - 12:29
The late Senator Thad Cochran's role in helping Mississippi get what it needed post Katrina - 15:43
Importance of having a strong transportation infrastructure network - 17:45
Signature legislation or policies during governorship - 20:21:16
On the lost art of bipartisanship - 22:36
Governor Barbour on MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 27:40
Favorite place to get a bite to eat when out on Mississippi highways - 28:13
What is Governor Barbour up to these days? - 29:23
Show outro - 30:30

MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff Aug 29, 2022

MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff joined The Extra Mile podcast to recap the Hwy 49 project in Rankin County, provide an update on copper wire theft prevention efforts, give info on projects around the state and more.

Show intro, introducing MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff - 00:30
Recapping and putting a bow on the Highway 49 project in Rankin County - 01:28
On being patient when it comes to construction projects, being worth it in the end - 03:21
Wrapping up the Interstate 20 bridge replacement project in Jackson - 04:37
Other project updates in the state including Corridor V in Itawamba County - 05:38
The results of extra money appropriated to MDOT by the Mississippi Legislature - 07:03
On how inflation has affected maintenance and construction projects - 07:48
Efforts of MDOT crews during recent flooding and severe weather - 08:50
Update on copper wire thefts on interstates in Jackson - 12:50
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat while traveling Mississippi highways - 13:46
First car and dream car - 14:49
Update on SEC Squared, pay adjustments for MDOT employees - 15:39
Show outro - 17:59

Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development Aug 15, 2022

The Extra Mile podcast team talked to Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development, about how MDOT and Louisiana DOTD work together, hurricanes and contraflow protocol, the best places to eat in Louisiana and more.

Show intro - 00:31
Background on Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development - 01:04
What's the "Development" portion of the "Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development" mean? - 04:29
How do MDOT and Louisiana DOT work together? - 06:50
What happens when a major hurricane strikes the area, info on Contraflow? - 10:34
Why Dr. Shawn Wilson believes it's important to have a robust, safe, efficient transportation network - 13:08
Unique challenges of traffic during college football season with LSU and Southern University both in Baton Rouge - 14:42
How can Mississippians get traffic/travel information when visiting Louisiana? - 16:31
Dr. Wilson's favorite place to get a bite to eat in Louisiana - 17:40
Show outro - 19:03

State Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds Aug 01, 2022

State Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds joined The Extra Mile podcast on location at the Neshoba County Fair. Senator Branning and Representative Bounds shared stories about the fair, discussed transportation-related topics and much more.

Show intro - 00:27
State Representative Scott Bounds on his new role as President of the Neshoba County Fair - 01:24
Rep. Bounds gives history and synopsis of the Neshoba County Fair - 03:14
Rep. Bounds on the political element of the Neshoba County Fair - 06:05
Rep. Bounds on the logistics of the fair - 07:02
Rep. Bounds on the attendance of the Neshoba County Fair - 08:56
Rep. Bounds on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 11:00
Rep. Bounds favorite place meal at the Neshoba County Fair - 12:12
Wrapping things up with Rep. Bounds - 13:26
Commercial break: MDOT Central District Commissioner Willie Simmons soundbite from Neshoba County Fair speech - 13:54
Introducing State Senator Jenifer Branning - 14:58
Sen. Branning on how she's enjoying the fair - 15:38
Sen. Branning highlighting the past legislative session for MDOT - 16:02
Sen. Branning on preparations being made for the next legislative session - 17:30
Sen. Branning on her favorite memories from the Neshoba County Fair - 18:11
Sen. Branning on projects in her area she's keeping an eye on, Hwy 19 in Neshoba County - 20:38
Sen. Branning on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 21:42
Sen. Branning on how she works with Rep. Bounds to advance the best interests of the district - 22:49
Sen. Branning on her favorite food at the Neshoba County Fair - 24:13
Show outro - 25:44

Former Governor Ronnie Musgrove Jul 18, 2022

Former Governor Ronnie Musgrove joined the show to talk about his personal connection to MDOT, his most memorable accomplishments as governor, what he’s up to these days and more.

Show intro - 00:29
Information on Former Governor Ronnie Musgrove, background on why he ran for governor - 1:01
Governor Musgrove's connection to the old Mississippi Highway Department, now MDOT - 03:06
How Governor Musgrove worked with MDOT to advance transportation interests - 05:54
Story about vetoing initial contraflow legislation and reworking the pact between Mississippi and Louisiana - 07:53
PSA: Former MDOT Central District Commissioner Dick Hall on work zone safety - 11:19
Governor Musgrove's greatest accomplishment as governor - 12:02
What's the key to running an entire state? - 16:49
What is Governor Musgrove up to these day? - 19:31
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when traveling around Mississippi - 22:12
Show outro - 23:50

Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration Nuria Fernandez Jul 05, 2022

Nuria Fernandez, Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, joined The Extra Mile podcast to talk about a $650,000 rural transportation grant for Claiborne County, give an overview of the FTA, talk about the importance of public transportation and more.

Show intro - 00:29
More on $650,000 rural transportation grant (Areas of Persistent Poverty Program) for Claiborne County - 01:04
Why Claiborne County for this grant? - 02:00
Background information on Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration Nuria Fernandez -02:33
Administrator Fernandez on the emotional testimonial of a public transit user in Claiborne County - 04:55
Overview of the Federal Transportation Administration from Administrator Fernandez - 05:45
On Administrator Fernandez's first trip to Mississippi - 07:42
On Administrator Fernandez and her staff getting boots on the ground to work in communities - 08:17
Where did Administrator Fernandez get a bite to eat the night before the grant presentation? - 09:18
Any last message from the Federal Transit Administration to Mississippians - 10:17
Show outro - 11:19

Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker Jun 20, 2022

The Extra Mile team took the show on the road to talk to Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker in city hall. He discussed his path to being elected mayor, working with MDOT to accomplish transportation infrastructure goals, the explosion of growth in the Hub City and more.

Show intro - 00:28
Background and how Mayor Barker made it to Hattiesburg - 01:33
What led him to run for Mayor of Hattiesburg after 10 years in the Mississippi House or Representatives - 02:34
How does the City of Hattiesburg work with MDOT to accomplish transportation infrastructure goals - 04:05
Fun story of how Mayor Barker met MDOT Southern District Transportation Commissioner Tom King - 04:37
Transportation projects going on in the City of Hattiesburg - 06:50
Unique considerations to be made when planning transportation with two university in the city (Southern Miss and William Carey) - 11:46
What does Mayor Hattiesburg attribute the explosion of growth in the city to? - 13:24
Impact of Longleaf Trace on the Hattiesburg economy - 15:19
Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker's favorite place to eat when out traveling on Mississippi highways - 17:36
Star-Spangled Celebration on the River, Fourth of July collaboration between Hattiesburg and Petal - 18:50
Show outro - 20:33

MEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraney Jun 06, 2022

The Extra Mile podcast was on location at the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. MEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraney joined the show to discuss his background, hurricane preparedness, the various responsibilities of MEMA and more.

Show intro - 00:30
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Stephen McCraney on his background and experience - 01:30
Overview of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency - 03:21
On MDOT's role during hurricane season - 08:26
MEMA's Radiation Preparedness Program - 09:32
How can the public stay in the loop during emergencies? - 10:11
On MEMA's emergency response vehicles - 11:38
On how contraflow works - 12:47
What should Mississippians do to prepare for disasters? - 15:00
More on "The First 72 Hours Are On You" - 17:19
What not to do during a disaster? - 19:11
On avoiding downed power lines - 21:15
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when traveling on Mississippi highways? - 21:05
Show outro - 23:59

Mississippi Today Editor-at-Large Marshall Ramsey May 23, 2022

Mississippi Today Editor-at-Large Marshall Ramsey joined the show to discuss his career as an editorial cartoonist, give his thoughts on covering MDOT, talk about his favorite places to grab a bite to eat while traveling Mississippi highways and more.

Show intro - 00:29
Introducing Mississippi Today Editor-at-Large Marshall Ramsey - 00:52
Background, why did Marshall Ramsey decide to be an editorial cartoonist? - 01:40M
Marshall Ramsey on his creative process - 03:33
Marshall Ramsey on overcoming creative block - 05:19
On the balance between fact-based journalism and humor - 06:40
On covering MDOT and any memories from covering the agency - 08:10
Hwy 49 cartoon and Marshall Ramsey's thoughts on the project - 09:36
Favorite cartoons over the years - 11:20
On Marshall Ramsey's radio show on Mississippi Public Radio, interview series for Mississippi Today - 15:06
Interview tips for The Extra Mile podcast crew - 16:05
On the importance of having a safe, efficient transportation network in Mississippi - 19:07
Favorite place for Marshall Ramsey to get a bite to eat when out traveling on Mississippi highways - 23:00
Show outro - 25:35

Former Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall May 09, 2022

Former Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall joined the show to recap his time in public service, give his thoughts on the 2022 legislative session for MDOT and opine on what needs to happen going forward to advance transportation infrastructure in Mississippi.

Show intro - 00:27
Introducing former MDOT Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall - 01:14
Background on former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall - 01:25
Commissioner Dick Hall on being a part of the legislature vs. being transportation commissioner - 01:58
On when Commissioner Dick first met MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 03:17
Important projects that stick out in the mind of Commissioner Dick Hall - 04:53
Commissioner Hall's take on the 2022 legislative session for MDOT - 08:51
Long-term funding conversation for transportation infrastructure in Mississippi - 10:22
On the legislature allowing for salary increases for MDOT employees - 13:49
On Commissioner Dick Hall being honored for his years of service to MDOT - 16:32
Story about planting of tree and metaphor for building transportation infrastructure - 17:54
First car/favorite car for Commissioner Dick Hall - 20:02
What was MDOT Executive Director Brad White like back in the day? - 22:32
On working with Commissioner Tom King as a transportation commissioner and working with Commissioner Willie Simmons in the legislature - 24:41
Talking about the good, hard-working people that have worked for Commissioner Dick Hall - 25:57
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when traveling the state on Mississippi highways - 26:35
What is Commissioner Dick Hall up to these days? - 27:52
Funny story with Commissioner Dick Hall and the late Senator Thad Cochran getting confused for each other - 28:59
Thanking Commissioner Dick Hall for appearing on the show - 30:52
Show outro - 31:20

Legislative Session: MDOT Executive Director Brad White Apr 18, 2022

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined the show to recap the 2022 legislative session, talk about former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall, send out thanks for a successful session and more.

Show intro - 00:16
MDOT Executive Director Brad White breaks down the legislative session for the agency - 01:26
The new expectations that come with additional funding and salary increase at MDOT - 04:36
Additional money to help speed up projects, help with inflation - 05:54
Recap of MDOT's Fallen Worker Memorial Ceremony - 06:40
Increase in roadway fatalities, what motorists can do to help with this - 08:43
Refresher on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act - 10:11
Brad on the agency honoring former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall - 12:24
Special thanks from Brad for a successful legislative session - 15:08
Things Brad has learned over his nearly a year at MDOT - 16:34
Favorite place to get a bite to eat while traveling Mississippi highways - 18:27
Paul and Will's favorite places to eat in Mississippi while traveling - 19:26
News on show going forward, Extra Mile Podcast going to twice a month - 20:39
Show outro - 21:18

Legislative Session: Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann Apr 11, 2022

Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann joined the show to talk his path into politics, additional money headed to MDOT from the legislature, his thoughts on brain drain and more.

Show intro, introducing Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann - 00:15
Lieutenant Governor Hosemann as an avid marathoner - 00:56
What drove Lt. Governor Hosemann to get into politics - 01:41
On his decision to go from Secretary of State to Lt. Governor - 05:27
Breakdown of the additional money being sent to MDOT from the Mississippi legislature - 06:15
Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann on former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall - 10:50
Money for ports - 13:45
Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFlex) - 15:24
Other legislation left on table including ARPA money, education, tracking progress of legislature's investments - 16:55
Lt. Governor Hosemann's thoughts on the brain drain and how to keep young people in the state - 20:08
Favorite places to grab a bite to eat while out traveling Mississippi highways - 22:52
On our state parks and our need to improve them - 23:39
Best way for Mississippians to contact Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann - 25:36
The Extra Mile Podcast receives Award of Excellence from the Public Relations Association of Mississippi - 26:16
Show outro - 26:37

Legislative Session: Legislation Update and I-20 Closure Preview Apr 04, 2022

As the 2022 legislative session wraps up, co-host Will Craft broke down legislation affecting the agency. MDOT Chief Engineer/Deputy Executive Director Brian Ratliff also joined the show to explain the upcoming I-20 WB/I-55 SB closure in Jackson.

Show intro, previewing legislation talk with Will Craft and I-20 closure with Brian Ratliff - 00:16
MDOT's Will Craft, Government and Constituent Affairs, provides updates on legislation affecting the agency - 00:53
Update on the next iteration of the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 05:16
Gas tax holiday update - 06:36
Introducing MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff - 07:42
Closure on I-20 westbound, I-55 southbound in Jackson to repair dip in roadway, what caused it? - 07:54
Walkthrough of what the work will look like - 09:00
What would happen if these repairs were not made? - 09:40
Explanation of detour routes - 10:27
Reiteration of the corridors that will be affected - 10:48
Does all the recent rain play a factor in the repair? - 11:36
How will the public be updated on the closure? - 12:35
People need to give themselves more time when navigating the closure - 13:12
SEC Squared, Mississippi State Personnel Board initiative - 13:38
MDOT employee salaries top priority of Executive Director Brad White - 14:27
Favorite place to stop and eat out when traveling on Mississippi highways - 15:38
MDOT's The Extra Mile Podcast finalist for Government Social Media Conference podcast of the year - 17:26
Will Craft shouts out MDOT's legislative team - 18:01
Show outro - 18:49

Legislative Session: State Senator Barbara Blackmon Mar 28, 2022

State Senator Barbara Blackmon joined the show to talk about her roles as Chair of the Housing Committee and Vice-Chair of Highways and Transportation, ARPA money, her thoughts on the income tax debate and more.

Show intro, introducing State Senator Barbara Blackmon - 00:15
Get to know State Senator Barbara Blackmon, how she go into politics - 00:59
Why she got back into politics after leaving in 2003 - 03:00
Role as Chair of the Housing Committee in the Senate - 4:34
Overview of what's going on with the Highways and Transportation Committee - 05:49
Future of the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 07:07:52
Any other legislation looking at, ARPA money - 08:26
State Senator Barbara Blackmon's thoughts on the income tax debate - 09:25
Favorite place to get a bite to eat at when traveling around Mississippi - 11:52
Best way for constituents and the public to contact State Senator Barbara Blackmon - 12:40

Legislative Session: State Representative Richard Bennett Mar 21, 2022

State Representative Richard Bennett, Chair of the Education Committee in the House, joined the show to talk teacher pay raise legislation, MDOT’s upkeep of Hwy 90, the revitalization of the Coast post-Katrina and more.

Show intro, introducing State Representative Richard Bennett - 00:16
How State Representative Richard Bennett got into politics -00:55
Representative Bennett on the teacher pay raise legislation - 02:48
Information on conference weekend, last two weeks of the 2022 Mississippi legislative session - 04:30
More on conference reports - 05:25
Legislation helping to provide higher education to foster care kids - 06:10
Importance of transportation, any projects going on in District 120, MDOT's upkeep of Highway 90 - 08:41
Revitalization of the Mississippi Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina - 10:18
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat while traveling Mississippi - 11:49
Ways for people and constituents to contact State Representative Richard Bennett - 13:05
Show outro - 13:43

Legislative Session: State Senator John Horhn Mar 14, 2022

State Senator John Horhn joined the show to talk about his career in state government and politics, the link between great transportation infrastructure and economic development, the importance of keeping our roads litter free and much more.

Show intro, introducing State Senator John Horhn - 00:16
Getting to Senator Horhn, how he got into politics - 00:50
Thoughts on the the importance of transportation, any challenges to advance transportation in Mississippi - 05:38
Electric and autonomous vehicles - 06:43
Role as Chairman of Labor Committee and Vice-Chair of Tourism Committee - 08:12
Keeping an eye on any legislation? - 09:33
Importance of keeping roads free of litter - 11:05
Projects of interest in District 26 - 12:31
Reflecting on working with MDOT Central District Commissioner Willie Simmons - 14:05
Impact of Deion Sanders at Jackson State on the university and city- 14:53
Favorite places to eat while driving up and down the highways - 17:38
Show outro - 20:01

Legislative Session: State Senator Hob Bryan Mar 07, 2022

State Senator Hob Bryan joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about his 39 years in the legislature, memories of the 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program, other transportation topics and more.

Show intro, introducing State Senator Hob Bryan - 00:17
Life in Amory - 01:00
How did State Senator Hob Bryan get into politics? - 01:28
On his role as the Public Health and Welfare Chair in the Senate - 02:10
Memories of the 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program in Mississippi - 03:10
Highway Department becoming the Department of Transportation - 10:06
Amory referred to as the Railroad Subdivision - 15:43
Vision 21 and data-driven decision making - 17:30
Favorite governor of the state of Mississippi - 18:54
Projects in District 7, Corridor V - 20:34
Favorite spot to eat while out on the road - 21:52
Best way for constituents to call you - 23:51
Show outro - 24:38

Legislative Session: State Representative Trey Lamar Feb 28, 2022

State Representative Trey Lamar joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about transportation legislation, the Tax Freedom Act, an overview of the Ways and Means Committee and other topics.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: State Representative Trey Lamar

Show intro

Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17

Guest: State Representative Trey Lamar

State Representative Trey Lamar's time as an Ole Miss football player during Eli Manning years - 00:49
Background information and why he decided to run for the Mississippi House of Representatives - 01:57
Transportation infrastructure projects projects in Tate and Lafayette counties - 04:01
Why is important for Mississippi to have a robust transportation infrastructure network? - 06:52
Transportation legislation, House Bill 1686 relating to MDOT debt relief - 08:56
Income tax elimination discussion, Tax Freedom Act from the House - 10:42
Overview of the Ways and Means Committee in the Mississippi House of Representatives - 14:53
Explanation of House Bill 1639, electric vehicle charging fee for non-residents of Mississippi - 16:21
Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when out on the road in Mississippi - 17:53
How can Mississippians and constituents contact State Representative Trey Lamar - 18:41

Show outro

Legislative Session: U.S. Congressman Michael Guest Feb 21, 2022

U.S. Congressman Michael Guest joined the show to talk about transportation infrastructure-related topics, electric and autonomous vehicles, rural broadband expansion and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: U.S. Congressman Michael Guest

Show intro

Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17

Guest: U.S. Congressman Michael Guest

Congressman Michael Guest tells him about himself and gives background information - 01:20
What led to running for Congress? - 07:50
Advocating for Mississippi on transportation and other issues in Washington, DC - 10:30
Overview of committees that Congressman Michael Guest serves on - 13:06
Electric and autonomous vehicles and the continued importance of the - 14:51
Congressman Michael Guest on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act - 17:25
Update on rural broadband expansion - 22:30
Congressman Michael Guest highlights local legislation, renaming post office in Lincoln County for fallen law enforcement officers - 25:22
Contact info for Congressman Michael Guest - 27:58
Congressman Guest highlights constituent services issues - 28:32

Show outro

Legislative Session: Secretary of State Michael Watson Feb 14, 2022

Secretary of State Michael Watson joined the show to talk about various initiatives at the SOS office, the importance of adequate transportation across the state, voting issues and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: Secretary of State Michael Watson

Show intro

Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17

Guest: Secretary of State Michael Watson

What brought Secretary Michael Watson to serve in public office? - 01:12
What drove you to see out the Secretary of State's office - 02:46
Secretary Watson's take on what's going on at the current stage of the legislative session - 04:42
Tracking any legislative session at the Secretary of State's office? - 05:31
Why do think transportation is important? Specific to the Secretary of State office? - 07:07
Rundown of initiatives at Secretary of State office - 08:08
Explainer on "Tackle the Tape" initiative - 09:46
Services for small business owners - 10:39
"Milk and cookies" policy for new hires at the Secretary of State's office - 12:27
Restaurants you like to eat at during your time on the road? - 14:38
Why is voting important? - 16:24
Contact information for Secretary Michael Watson - 17:31
Encouragement to check voter registration status - 18:26

Show outro

Legislative Session: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson Feb 07, 2022

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson joined the show to talk about how MDOT and the Department of Agriculture and Commerce work together, the Dixie National Rodeo, his time in the legislature and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson

Show intro

Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:16

Guest: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson

What got Commissioner Gipson into politics? - 01:20
Why is it important for MDOT and the Department of Agriculture and Commerce to work together? - 03:53
Hurdles when it comes to advancing transportation infrastructure in the state? - 05:37
Do electric/autonomous vehicles have a future when it comes to moving commodities? - 06:51
On past legislative experience and general bill deadline - 09:01
How MDOT and the Department of Agriculture and Commerce fight litter - 11:15
Dixie National Rodeo promo - 11:40
On the famous Mississippi State Fair biscuit recipe - 14:39
Favorite restaurant while on the road traveling - 19:40:

Show outro

Legislative Session: State Senator Angela Turner-Ford Jan 31, 2022

State Senator Angela Turner Ford joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk transportation-related topics, her role as Chairwoman of the Public Property Committee and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: State Senator Angela Turner Ford

Show intro

Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:16

Guest: State Senator Angela Turner Ford

Introducing Senator Angela Turner Ford – 00:49
What led Senator Tuner Ford to politics – 1:20
What measures will come up in the Public Property Committee? – 1:50
Why is it important to have a robust transportation network in Mississippi? – 2:30
What hurdles does the state face to advance transportation interests? – 3:03
How transportation infrastructure impacts economic development – 4:01
Projects that stand out in District 16 – 5:31
Lottery impacts on transportation – 6:38
Favorite places to travel around the state using Mississippi’s roads and bridges – 7:01
Contact info for Senator Angela Turner Ford and her office – 8:11

Show outro

Legislative Session: State Representative Charles Busby Jan 24, 2022

State Representative Charles Busby joined the show to talk about bills passing through his Transportation Committee, the future of transportation in Mississippi, projects he’s keeping an eye on and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: State Representative Charles Busby

Show intro

Introducing hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:22

Guest: State Representative Charles Busby

Introducing Representative Charles Busby - 00:43
Rep. Busby goes into his engineering background - 1:51
Major transportation measures that stand out this session – 2:22
Hurdles the state faces to advance transportation infrastructure: autonomous vehicles, limited access roadways, unmanned delivery systems, electric vehicles, and reduction in use of fossil fuels – 3:50
Electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and limited access roadways: what they mean for Mississippi – 6:47
Success of Emergency Road and Bridge Fund program – 8:02
Projects that stand out in Jackson County and south Mississippi - 11:10
Highlight of bill in Transportation Committee: headlights during rain, sheriffs using radar, outdoor advertisements, ARPA, MDOT employee pay
Favorite place to travel around the state using Mississippi’s roads and bridges – 17:15
Contact info for Representative Busby and his office – 18:47

Show outro

Legislative Session: State Senator Jenifer Branning Jan 17, 2022

State Senator Jenifer Branning talked about MDOT’s participation in last week’s Senate Appropriations Committee meeting, the makeup of the Highways and Transportation Committee and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: State Senator Jenifer Branning

Show intro

Introducing guest hosts Jas N Smith and Katey Hornsby - 00:27

Guest: State Senator Jenifer Branning

Introducing Senator Jenifer Branning - 00:54
Breakdown of Appropriations subcommittee meetings and what they mean for state agencies - 1:33
MDOT brief on budget request for next year - 2:39
Highlights of first two weeks of the session - 3:54
Overview of Transportation Committee and how it functions – 4:50
Biggest takeaways from Branning’s trip around the state to understand funding needs of different communities – 5:45
Shout out to leaders of Senate Transportation Committee, Joey Fillingane, Charles Younger, and Bart Williams – 9:32
ARPA Funding and its potential impact on Mississippi infrastructure – 10:27
Important potential impacts from this session – 11:35
Relationship between the Senate and the House – 12:32
Difference between Senator Branning’s first and most recent session – 13:23
Favorite place to travel around the state using Mississippi’s roads and bridges – 15:15
Contact info for Senator Branning and her office – 16:15

Show outro

Legislative Session: Speaker of the House Philip Gunn Jan 10, 2022

Speaker of the House Philip Gunn talked to Paul and Will about the importance of transportation infrastructure, the legislative process and more.

The Extra Mile - Legislative Session: Speaker of the House Philip Gunn

Show intro

Introducing Will Craft, co-host of The Extra Mile: Legislative Session - 00:28
Will Craft - where has he been and what brought him to MDOT -00:48
Will Craft's role at MDOT - 02:14

Guest: Speaker of the House Philip Gunn

Introducing Speaker of the House Philip Gunn - 05:01
Why is important for Mississippi to have a strong transportation infrastructure network? - 05:25
On the rural nature of the state's transportation infrastructure network and the need to properly maintain the system- 08:50
Role the Mississippi House of Representatives plays in advancing transportation infrastructure in the state - 10:15
Shoutout to leaders of House Transportation Committee, Charles Busby and Steve Massengill - 15:57
Anything specific to transportation in the 2020 Legislative Session - 16:41
References 2018 Road Plan passed by the House - 20:20
Favorite place to travel around the state using Mississippi's roads and bridges - 22:20
Contact info for Speaker Gunn and his office - 23:35

Show outro

The Extra Mile: Legislative Session Teaser Dec 20, 2021

Introducing a special edition of the podcast called The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session. Throughout the session, Paul Katool and Will Craft will be joined by guests to break down transportation-related matters happening within Mississippi's legislative session.

Brad White Recaps First 6 Months Dec 01, 2021

MDOT Executive Director Brad White joins the show to recap his first six months on the job and gives his priorities going forward for the agency.

The Extra Mile Episode 6: Brad White Recaps First 6 Months

Show intro with Paul and Waverly

Plugging MDOT's travel resources in advance of the holidays

Guest: MDOT Executive Director Brad White

Brad recaps his first six months on the job
Brad's observations of MDOT during his first six months
Recap of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Skill and expertise of MDOT employees, using State Route 26 repair as an example
Previewing what could come with upcoming legislative session for MDOT
Long-term goals for MDOT
Competitive wages for MDOT employees

Show Outro

Infrastructure Bill Breakdown with Brad White Nov 17, 2021

During this special episode, MDOT Executive Director Brad White joins the show to break down what the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act means for Mississippi.

The Extra Mile - Special Episode: Infrastructure Bill Breakdown with Brad White

Show intro

Guest: MDOT Executive Director Brad White

Brad breaks down the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, including reauthorization of funds and some additional money
What the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds can be used for
How quickly will the new funds be able to be used?
Clarification on the fact that this money is coming in for a five-year period
Roads and bridges are not the only component to the Act
How is MDOT typically funded?

Show outro

Connecting the Dots with Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. Nov 03, 2021

"The Extra Mile" podcast hit the road for Episode 5. Paul and Waverly discuss transportation infrastructure at the local level and other topics with Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr.

The Extra Mile Episode 5: Connecting the Dots with Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. - Show Notes

Show intro with Paul and Waverly

Guest: Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr.

Mayor Flaggs recaps his career leading up to his time in the Mississippi legislature and as the Mayor of Vicksburg
Mayor Flaggs talks about how transportation infrastructure positively impacts economic growth and development
How relationships — at the federal, state and local level — help contribute to great transportation infrastructure
Transportation infrastructure and jobs, including jobs constructing that transportation infrastructure
Thanksgiving Travel PSA, voiced by MDOT Public Information Officer David Kenney
Beyond just roads and bridges, impact of other types of transportation
The role public transit plays at the local level like the City of Vicksburg

Show Outro

MDOT's Newest PIO & a Deeper Look into Intermodal Planning Oct 07, 2021

The fourth episode of "The Extra Mile" Podcast introduces MDOT's new Northern District Public Information Officer, David Kenney. The show also features a conversation with MDOT Director of Intermodal Planning Charles Carr and the role his office plays in the state's transportation network.

The Extra Mile Episode 4: MDOT's Newest PIO & a Deeper Look into Intermodal Planning - Show Notes

Show intro with Paul and Waverly
Guest: David Kenney, MDOT Northern District Public Information Officer

Recap of time working in news including over 20 years at WLBT
Talks about making transition from working as a journalist to working in public relations
What have you learned about MDOT that you weren't expecting?
Why is transportation infrastructure so important for everyone?
Looking forward to covering MDOT's Norther District?

MDOT Road to Game Day Promo - voiced by Drew Hall, MDOT Media Producer

Guest: Charles Car, MDOT Director of Intermodal Planning

How did you get your start at MDOT?
What falls underneath the Intermodal umbrella?
Funding element
How do the modes contributes to a safe and efficient transportation network?
Economic impact of different modes
Why is it to have a strong public transit network in Mississippi?
MDOT's role in public transit
MDOT's role in coordinating COVID-19 vaccination transportation
Future plans in the Office of Intermodal Planning

Show Outro

Hurricane Ida Response & MDOT Construction Process Sep 03, 2021

The third episode of "The Extra Mile" Podcast features a conversation with MDOT Public Information Officer Katey Hornsby on the agency's Hurricane Ida response. Later in the show, MDOT State Construction Engineer Shane Martin joins to talk about the construction process — from beginning to end.

The Extra Mile Episode 3: Hurricane Ida Response & MDOT Construction Process - Show Notes

Show intro with Paul and Waverly

Guest: Katey Hornsby, MDOT Southern District Public Information Officer

Recap of Hurricane Ida's impact on Mississippi
MDOT D6 Engineer Kelly Castleberry soundbite on Hwy 26 washout in George County
What Mississippians can takeaway from Hurricane Ida
Importance of being prepared for hurricanes
MDOT hurricane preparedness resources

MDOT Vaccination Transportation PSA - voiced by Charles Carr, MDOT Director of Intermodal Planning

Guest: Shane Martin, MDOT State Construction Engineer

Introduction and how his career took him to be in charge of MDOT Construction Division
What warrants an MDOT construction project?
Talks about MDOT team that drives all the interstates to evaluate and improve roads
Timeline of MDOT construction project
Who all is involved in the MDOT construction process?
Different elements involved in MDOT construction process
When does an MDOT construction project go to bid?
Projects Shane has been proud to be a part of during his time at MDOT

MDOT's Road to Game Day campaign - getting everyone to the game safely and delay free

Show Outro

Work Zone Safety & Highway 49, I-20 updates Aug 05, 2021

Episode 2 of "The Extra Mile" podcast features a conversation on work zone safety with MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff. MDOT Public Information Officer Michael Flood also joins the show to talk Highway 49, I-20 and other central Mississippi project updates.

The Extra Mile Episode 2: Work Zone Safety & Highway 49, I-20 updates - Show Notes

Show intro with Paul and Waverly

Guest: Brian Ratliff, MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer

Brian's background, different roles at MDOT
MDOT adapting and keeping Mississippi moving in a COVID-19 world
How dangerous is it for the MDOT men and women working out on the roads?
What can the traveling public do to keep MDOT workers safe?
MDOT workers are real people, update on worker who lost a leg in the line of service

Litter PSA - voiced by Katey Hornsby, MDOT Southern District Public Information Officer

Guest: Michael Flood, MDOT Central District Public Information Officer

Experiences at MDOT over the years, favorite part of working for the agency
Highway in Rankin County update
Why has the Highway 49 project in Rankin County taken so long to complete?
I-20 project in Jackson update
Other project updates in central Mississippi, including updates from District 3
Intro to new District 3 Engineer Earl Glenn
Reminder to watch out for our workers during projects

Show outro

The First Mile Jul 01, 2021

The first episode of "The Extra Mile" podcast features a conversation with new MDOT Executive Director Brad White. MDOT Public Information Officer Katey Hornsby also joins the show to talk about the agency’s role in hurricane preparedness and projects in south Mississippi.

The Extra Mile Episode 1: The First Mile - Show Notes

Show intro with Paul and Waverly

Guest: Katey Roh, MDOT Southern District Public Information Officer

What to expect from the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season
MDOT's role during hurricane season
MDOT hurricane preparedness info - GoMDOT.com/hurricanes and GoMDOT.com/maps
Contraflow explainer
Fort Bayou Bridge repair in Ocean Springs (hurricane evacuation route) and the overall importance of maintenance
Southern District project updates

Work Zone Safety commercial - voiced by MDOT Public Affairs Director Jas N Smith

Guest: Brad White, MDOT Executive

How he got his start in politics and public service
Last month closing out time as Gov. Tate Reeve's Chief of Staff and preparing for taking over as MDOT Executive Director
Why interested in the position of MDOT Executive Director?
On time working as assistant for former MDOT Central District Commissioner Dick Hall
Transportation infrastructure experience at the federal level
What does MDOT need going forward?
100 day plan?
Excited to get back to working at MDOT?
Currently reading anything that could help in role as the new MDOT leader?
Leadership style
Message to Mississippi taxpayers as he begins new role

Show outro

Pilot Episode Jun 21, 2021

Introducing The Extra Mile podcast by the Mississippi Department of Transportation. Co-hosts Paul Katool and Waverly McCarthy take listeners inside the world of transportation infrastructure in Mississippi.

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