Shows
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2025: Mississippi Transportation Commission Chairman Willie SimmonsFor the extra special 100th episode of The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session, Mississippi Transportation Commission Chair Willie Simmons joined co-hosts Will Craft and Paul Katool to provide central Mississippi project updates, give the latest on recurring revenue for MDOT, talk litter pickup efforts, and more.Show intro / introducing Commissioner Willie Simmons – 00:00Mississippians affected by severe weather / MDOT project updates – 01:48Museum Trail in Jackson – 10:57Interstate Problems in the Jackson Metro – 13:33Recurring Revenue for MDOT – 21:20Favorite place(s) to eat – 26:07Favorite music/concert(s) – 28:09Show Outro – 29:57
2025-03-2630 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2025: State Senator John HorhnState Senator John Horhn joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about legislation he's focused on, transportation funding, the Governor's Arts Awards and more.Show intro / introducing State Senator John Horhn – 00:35Legislative Session updates – 01:38Governor's Arts Awards – 04:55What legislation Senator Horhn is watching – 07:37Infrastructure/Recurring revenue for MDOT – 12:35Favorite place(s) to eat – 17:50Favorite music/concert(s) – 20:04Show Outro – 21:48
2025-02-1122 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2025: State Senator Charles "Chuck" YoungerState Senator Charles "Chuck" Younger joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to talk about how he got into politics, his new role as Senate Highways and Transportation Chairman, transportation funding and more.Show intro / introducing State Senator Charles "Chuck" Younger – 00:35How Chairman Younger got involved in politics – 03:34Younger as new chairman of Senate Highways and Transportation Committee – 04:35Things to look for in legislative session – 06:00Some Senate Districts to be redrawn – 10:10Favorite place(s) to eat – 14:20Favorite music/concert(s) – 17:11Show Outro – 18:15
2025-01-2818 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2025: State Representative Trey LamarState Representative and House Ways and Means Chairman Trey Lamar joined The Extra Mile Podcast: Legislative Session to share his thoughts and insights on House Bill 1 (the "Build Up Mississippi Act"), cutting taxes, and Mississippi infrastructure funding.Show intro/introducing House Ways and Means Chairman Trey Lamar – 00:37House Bill 1 – 01:39Other items on legislative agenda – 10:52Show Outro – 11:36
2025-01-1612 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Executive Director Brad White - December 2024MDOT Executive Director Brad White joined The Extra Mile Podcast to recap a successful 2024 for the agency and talk about his continued push to modernize MDOT's funding model during the 2025 legislative session.Show intro/introducing MDOT Executive Director Brad White – 00:362024 MDOT Recap – 01:24Looking ahead to the 2025 legislative session – 05:00Recurring revenue models – 09:00A new Senate Highways & Transportation Chairman – 15:28Favorite Christmas songs – 18:30Favorite Christmas foods – 19:10Show outro – 20:28
2024-12-1021 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Representative Steve MassengillState Representative Steve Massengill joined The Extra Mile Podcast to talk about recurring revenue possibilities for transportation, discuss Thanksgiving cuisine options, and more.Show intro/introducing State Representative Steve Massengill – 00:38What the House Transportation Committee has been up to – 01:38Recurring Revenue Ideas for MDOT – 09:47Other Topics in the 2025 Legislative Session – 16:51Favorite Thanksgiving dishes – 21:17Favorite Christmas songs – 23:51Show Outro – 25:30
2024-11-2626 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Planning Division Director Evan WrightMDOT Planning Division Director Evan Wright joined The Extra Mile Podcast with a live audience at the 2024 Mississippi Transportation Institute (MTI) in Biloxi to discuss the conference, his division, and much more. Show intro – 00:36What is the Mississippi Transportation Institute (MTI)? – 01:24Evan's role at MTI – 02:11Favorite sessions at MTI – 03:24MDOT's Planning Division – 04:01The 2024-2026 Official Mississippi State Highway Map – 07:25How Evan landed at MDOT – 08:53Come work at MDOT! Visit GoMDOT.com/Careers – 10:36 Favorite place(s) to eat – 14:03Favorite music/concert(s) – 15:12Show Outro – 16:33
2024-11-0617 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Director of Preconstruction - Program Management Trudi LoflinMDOT 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 – 00:36Trudi's background and coming to MDOT – 01:26What is Right of Way? – 04:11Trudi's new role at MDOT – 05:25What's going on in Preconstruction? – 08:12Trudi's favorite things and lessons learned while working at MDOT – 09:35Come Work at MDOT! – 12:04Favorite place(s) to eat – 13:24Favorite music/concert(s) – 14:54Show Outro – 16:45
2024-10-1617 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMississippi Secretary of State Michael WatsonSecretary 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 – 00:36Election Day Preparations / Relationships with Local Election Officials – 01:37Check out free resources like yallvote.ms and My Election Day – 04:10Mississippi's Election Security Plan – 05:50Secretary Watson wants you to vote! – 07:59Voter ID – 11:12Any changes coming to voting in Mississippi? – 12:39SOS Ambassadors Program – 16:26Tackle the Tape – 20:18Looking ahead to the 2025 Legislative Session – 24:46Favorite place(s) to eat – 30:03Fav...
2024-10-0134 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMississippi Speaker of the House Jason WhiteSpeaker 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 – 00:26First Legislative Session as the Speaker – 01:27Biggest Accomplishments of Session/Since Session Ended – 02:46The Speaker's Public Policy Summit on Tax Reform – 07:34House Select Committees – 10:07Trajectory of Mississippi's Economy & Tax Reform – 11:37Register for the Speaker's Tax Reform Policy Summit: https://www.jasonwhitems.com/ – 17:10Looking forward to 2025 Session – 22:32Favorite place(s) to eat – 27:55Favorite music/concert(s) – 29:13Show Outro – 33:31
2024-09-1634 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMississippi Book Festival Executive Director Ellen DanielsMississippi 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 – 00:29Meet Mississippi Book Festival Executive Director Ellen Daniels – 00:58Recording on location at Mississippi Author Eudora Welty's House in Belhaven – 01:16The 10th Anniversary of the Mississippi Book Festival – 01:45Ellen Daniels's background – 02:37The Mississippi Book Festival – 03:40Authors to check out – 05:28Moving the Mississippi Book Festival to September – 09:36Favorite book(s) of all-time/reading right now – 13:34Favorite place(s) to eat – 16:28Favorite music/concert(s) – 18:12Show Outro – 21:49
2024-09-1023 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Assistant Chief Engineer Field Operations Janie BassMDOT 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 – 00:31Janie Bass' background at MDOT – 01:18The MDOT Internship – 05:50Under the Field Operations Umbrella – 06:38Women in Transportation – 10:00Why Engineering? – 11:40Favorite music/concert(s) – 12:53Favorite place(s) to eat – 14:39Show Outro – 16:52
2024-08-2718 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Director of the Office of Intermodal Planning and Highway Operations Jim WillisMDOT 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 – 00:30Jim Willis background – 01:20Legacy of Charles Carr, former Multimodal Director at MDOT for 40+ years – 03:55Momentum of Multimodal – 04:49Working at MDOT – 07:05Favorite music/concert(s) – 10:28Favorite place(s) to eat – 13:03Show Outro – 14:16
2024-08-1315 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Representative Fred ShanksState 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
2024-07-1521 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary White - July 2024MEMA 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...
2024-07-0136 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT State Maintenance Engineer Heath PattersonThe 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 – 00:30History of the Roadeo – 02:14Different events of the Roadeo – 03:37Why MDOT does the Roadeo – 04:57Favorite events to watch – 06:24The Biggest Competitors – 07:56Workplace Safety – 08:52Slow Down in Work Zones! – 10:04Favorite place(s) to eat – 11:33Favorite music/concert(s) – 12:47Show Outro – 13:40
2024-06-1015 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Executive Director Brad White's Legislative WrapMDOT 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 – 00:45Legislative session wrap-up begins (Recurring revenue) – 01:20Money moving into projects – 03:20Design Build Bill – 04:30Funding – 05:20Capacity projects – 06:05Additional comments on wrap-up – 07:07Favorite place(s) to eat - 08:11Favorite music/concert(s) – 09:21Show Outro – 10:00
2024-05-2211 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff ElyMDOT 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 – 01:14Regarding capacity projects – 02:49One-time money put into projects – 04:15Contraflow/Hurricane evacuation – 05:17On professional development program – 08:16Succession planning – 12:40Big capacity projects – 15:40Safety/Work zone awareness message – 19:56Favorite place(s) to eat – 23:23Favorite concert(s) – 24:32Show outro – 25:36Additionally, 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/miss...
2024-05-1526 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-SmithU.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 – 01:12Relationship with MDOT Executive Director Brad White – 02:18How Cindy Hyde-Smith got into politics - 03:07First impressions on being in office - 04:58Memorable moments/stories from D.C. – 07:58Committees/plans - 12:22Pine Beetle issues - 15:50Other committee focuses – 17:48On visiting home of MS – 20:36Regarding Mike Johnson - 21:57Big accomplishments/Bills - 23:09COV...
2024-04-3037 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: Transportation Commission Chairman Willie SimmonsTransportation 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 – 01:14Willie Simmons on being Chairman – 01:54Conversation plan of Conference - 03:04Talks/plans with Legislature – 05:08Greenville Bypass – 09:32Other Projects – 12:07Willie Simmons on littering issue – 14:29Willie Simmons on lighting – 18:27Work Zone Awareness Week – 19:55Willie Simmons new place(s) to eat – 23:52Groundbreaking Ceremony – 25:25Show Outro – 25:57
2024-04-1026 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: State Treasurer David McRaeState 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 – 01:14David McRae background/position – 01:42Highlights/Big projects as the Treasurer - 04:37Unclaimed Property/Other Programs – 05:55College savings Program/Opportunities - 12:15Starting a College Savings Program - 17:15Importance of Customer Service - 17:50MS Constitution Counting Statement - 18:58The Vault – 19:56The PERS Board - 21:12Healthcare & Pension for state employees - 23:31Understanding Personal Finance - 24:14Legislative agendas - 26:17Greatest Accompli...
2024-04-0235 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: State Senator Joel CarterState 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 – 01:15Joel Carter background/Journey to politics – 02:06The benefit of working in the food industry – 04:39Energy Committee update – 05:22Timetable with Nuclear – 06:49Main topics of Legislature – 07:24Gulf Coast District Projects – 08:10Joel Carter on Buc-ee’s – 09:08Other Projects – 09:42Coast Bounce back from Katrina – 10:25Joel Carter’s favorite place(s) to eat – 11:48Joel Carter’s favorite musician(s)/concert...
2024-03-1914 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Executive Director Brad White - March 2024MDOT 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 – 01:15Brad White speaking tour/goals – 01:50Plans/Conversations for revenue – 04:35Brad White on Legislative support – 07:40Removing Obstacles/Confidence – 08:26Bill supporting Design Build Process – 09:54Capacity Program/Needs – 11:44Conversations on Sports betting/Lottery – 15:07Working at MDOT/Job postings – 16:15Show Outro – 19:35
2024-03-1220 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Alternative Program Deliveries Division Director Jessica DilleyMDOT 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 – 01:13Jessica Dilley history/New Position in MDOT – 03:06Jessica Dilley on Design Build Projects – 04:10Design Build Project vs Alternative delivery – 06:17Alternative delivery project examples – 08:34Hurricane Katrina impact on projects/lessons learned – 09:26Retouching on limitations – 10:44Legislation action/Caps – 12:06Electric Vehicle Charging stations – 12:40MDOT’s role in project – 13:30Project Timeline/Mapping – 14:18Number of Stations – 15:32Women’s Transportation Seminar – 16:29Jessica Dilley’s favorite place(s) to eat – 19:41Jessica Dilley’s favorite concert(s) – 21:08Jessica D...
2024-03-0524 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: Southern District Transportation Commissioner Charles BusbySouthern 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 – 01:15Charles Busby Update/Project plans – 02:06Legislature/Relationship with Steve Massengill – 04:05Recurring revenue/Research – 04:28Program Sources/Funding – 05:35Focused efforts for recurring revenue – 07:50How that revenue is used – 08:54Charles Busby Current (Coast) Projects – 10:22Other Projects (Buc-ee’s) – 11:14What Charles Busby looks forward to as Commissioner – 13:00Tap Grants/Comradery with other cities– 13:44Charles Busby’s attention to Legislature – 15:32Charles Busby favorite/new place(s) to eat – 16:55Favorite co...
2024-02-2720 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy GipsonCommissioner 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 – 01:15Rodeo update/review – 02:02Mississippi AG and Outdoor Expo – 03:00Andy Gipson and MDOT Partnership on Sustainable Revenue – 04:10Current focuses of the AG department – 06:11Drought/Pine Beetle Crisis – 07:54Cattle Theft – 12:15Back-water pumps – 13:25Mike Mathis Memorial – 15:05Dixie national trademark Steakhouse – 15:59Sale of Champions/Expectations – 16:42Andy Gipson’s favorite place(s) to eat – 18:55Andy Gipson’s favorite concert(s) – 20:13Show Outro – 21:28
2024-02-2022 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: State Representative Steve MassengillState 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 – 01:15Steve Massengill position specifics – 03:14Steve Massengill districts – 04:14Differences as Chairman – 04:50Big projects/Focused efforts – 05:27Sustainable revenue conversations – 07:29Legislative agenda/State affairs – 08:20Roundabout Hwy 72 – 09:30New committee members – 10:14Steve Massengill extra Legislative comments – 11:24Steve Massengill favorite concert(s) – 12:37Steve Massengill favorite place(s) to eat – 14:03Steve Massengill’s love for cars/favorite(s) – 15:00Show outro – 16:16
2024-02-1316 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: State Senator Jenifer BranningState 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 – 01:18Jenifer Branning recap of Legislative Session so far – 02:05Jenifer Branning addressing new senate members – 02:48The hearing on transportation/revenue for transportation – 03:35Ideas for achieving revenue dedicated to transportation – 05:43ERBR/Multimodal fund – 06:48Other bills related to transportation – 08:40Jenifer Branning’s districts – 10:42Major projects – 11:13Favorite music/Family of musicians – 12:30Favorite place(s) to eat/Love for cooking – 13:50Show outro – 14:52
2024-02-0615 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Earl GlennMDOT 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 – 01:15Earl Glenn background/experience – 02:07Earl Glenn taking over as Chief Engineer – 06:10DOT preparation for winter/severe weather events – 07:03Stories of MDOT first responders – 10:30Lessons learned from previous storms – 11:28Snow vs Ice – 12:48Staff/Resources – 14:16Southern vs Northern States – 15:21Favorite place(s) to eat – 17:10Favorite concert(s) – 18:02Show outro – 19:12
2024-01-2919 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: Speaker of the House Jason WhiteMississippi 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 - 01:36Jason White's background - 02:30Overview of Jason White's path to Speaker in the legislature- 07:58Transportation-related legislative items coming up - 12:50Impact of MDOT managing its appropriated funds - 15:54Regarding the future of PERS - 19:05On the income tax - 22:33Other legislative priorities - 24:15Favorite place(s) to eat - 29:04Favorite...
2024-01-1734 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2024: MDOT Executive Director Brad WhiteMDOT 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 - 01:17Mississippi Transportation Commission updates - 02:10Overview of staff changes at MDOT - 03:37What the beginning of a legislative session is like - 06:30On sustainable funding for MDOT operations - 07:26Other priorities for the legislative session - 11:03How appropriated funds from the legislature get spent through MDOT - 12:09Regarding legislative earmarks - 14:10Brad White's New Year's resolution(s) - 15:44Family...
2024-01-0819 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike ChaneyMississippi 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 - 01:41Plans for Thanksgiving - 02:50What the Mississippi Insurance Department handles - 04:10Eudora Welty Library situation - 06:56Regulation of the State Health Plan - 09:56Insurance Department upcoming priorities - 10:58Regarding mortgage rates - 13:21On Mississippi transportation - 16:30State elected official Vietnam veterans - 18:07How the Insurance Department works with MDOT - 21:40Deer safety - 22:47Against...
2023-11-1632 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLieutenant Governor Delbert HosemannMississippi 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 - 01:23Lt. Governor Hosemann's November plans - 03:03Progress for education in Mississippi - 03:47Reflecting on this year's infrastructure investment - 06:48Upgrades to State Parks - 07:48Mississippi financial improvements - 08:45Regarding litter - 11:10Museum to Market Trail - 13:54Looking ahead to the next legislative session - 16:00Strategic infrastructure investments with MDOT - 21:50Impact of I-269 project - 24:12Lt. Governor Hosemann's hopes for MDOT projects - 24:31Notes on...
2023-11-0238 min
The Extra Mile PodcastBiloxi Mayor Andrew “FoFo” GilichBiloxi 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 - 01:22On Mayor Gilich's background - 02:57Why the nickname "FoFo" - 03:54Important visitors from Croatia - 05:25Charm of Biloxi - 07:36On Cruisin' the Coast - 10:39Tourism and lodging in Biloxi - 13:24Local partnership with MDOT - 15:40Regarding the I-110 bridge - 16:35Clean-up related to Katrina - 17:37Importance of hurricane preparedness - 23:09Project to w...
2023-10-0537 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT State Safety Engineer Mark ThomasMDOT 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 - 01:35About the Highway Safety Division - 02:39How the Highway Safety Division gets involved in safety improvement projects - 04:02On pedestrian safety - 05:44Pedestrians on the interstate - 07:09Types of Highway Safety Division projects - 08:25Regarding roundabouts - 10:14Example of an effective MS roundabout - 12:02Safety education activities - 14:15Buckle Up Phone Down campaign...
2023-09-2128 min
The Extra Mile PodcastAccelerate MS Executive Director Ryan MillerAccelerate 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 - 01:28What Accelerate MS does - 02:41Ryan Miller's background - 03:39Second annual MS Horizons Workforce Symposium - 07:17Current focus for Accelerate MS - 09:26On Accelerate MS successes so far - 11:21Regarding Workforce Enhancement Training (WET) Funds - 12:11Accelerate MS's future approach structure - 14:28Challenges Accelerate MS faces in accomplishing goals - 19:02Transportation related career growth - 25:04...
2023-09-0742 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT State LPA Engineer Lee FrederickMDOT 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 - 01:28What LPA means - 02:51How MDOT works with local public agencies - 04:32Types of LPA projects - 06:03LPA division team - 06:47Why you would want to work for MDOT - 09:50Lee Frederick's favorite LPA projects - 14:06Transportation Alternatives (TA) program - 16:05Other upcoming projects - 17:07Litter in Mississippi - 18:34Favorite place(s) to eat around Jackson...
2023-08-2428 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMEMA Chief Communications Officer Malary WhiteMEMA 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 - 01:32About the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) - 02:28What Malary White does at MEMA - 04:32How MEMA approaches peak hurricane season - 07:30On hurricane preparedness - 10:00MEMA resources, including their app - 12:40Overview of contraflow - 17:12Lessons learned from past events - 19:06Clarifying common MEMA misconceptions - 22:20Hurricane season predictions - 24:16Favorite place(s) to eat - 27:38F...
2023-08-1032 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds at NCF 2023State 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 - 01:07What's going on at the Neshoba County Fair - 02:06Speech preview - 05:50Prep for the fair - 08:10Reviewing the 2023 legislative session - 09:45Future legislation aims - 10:50Marty Stuart's Congress of Country Music - 13:09Favorite Neshoba County Fair concert - 16:02Introducing State Senator Jenifer Branning - 19:19What Fair events...
2023-07-2731 min
The Extra Mile PodcastVicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. - July 2023The 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. - 01:12July 4 in Vicksburg - 03:01Regarding the Miss Mississippi Pageant - 04:14Vicksburg pickleball and goat yoga opportunities - 05:31On the Dick Hall Welcome Center - 07:46Improvements to I-20 Flowers Interchange - 09:03I-20 frontage road extension and bridge repair - 13:04Port update - 14:11City's litter management - 15:25Favorite place(s) to eat - 19:00Favorite summer t...
2023-07-1323 min
The Extra Mile PodcastArdenland Owner Arden BarnettOur 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 - 00:37About Duling Hall - 01:37How Arden got into music - 03:00Why Duling Hall's location matters for music - 05:05Importance of transportation network for shows - 06:16Cathead Jam - 08:59Upcoming event at MSU Riley Center - 10:08Keath Killebrew Memorial Rodeo - 11:40Regarding litter - 13:37Favorite place(s) to eat - 15:46Favorite music - 16:50Show outro - 19:35
2023-06-2920 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Senator Lydia ChassaniolState 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 - 00:35About the building and location - 01:26Senator Chassaniol's service history - 02:58On the Mississippi culinary travel project - 03:45Promoting town to town marketing - 07:57Recent trip to Ocean Springs - 11:52Regarding a visit to Laurel - 13:55Favorite place to eat - 16:25Favorite music - 19:21Passion for art - 22:23Show outro - 23:54
2023-06-1524 min
The Extra Mile PodcastCoast Transit Authority Executive Director Kevin CogginKevin 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 - 00:36On the Gulfport Transit Center building - 01:15What is the Coast Transit Authority - 03:29Van pool operations - 05:54How the Coast Transit Authority relates to MDOT - 06:51Recent funding for multimodal transportation - 08:29Experience during Hurricane Katrina - 09:59Response to hurricanes - 12:34Lessons learned from Katrina - 13:51Importance of a hurricane plan - 15:20F...
2023-05-2426 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Engineers Colby Kimmel & Jessica DilleyColby 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 - 00:38Beginnings at MDOT - 03:07Regarding the Women in Transportation Seminar Mississippi group - 04:26WTS Social Media - 10:00Why Colby Kimmel decided to become an engineer - 10:10Contact details for WTS and STEM video resources - 11:36What drew Jessica Dilley to engineering - 14:17Why girls should...
2023-05-1130 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: MDOT Executive Director Brad WhiteMDOT 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 - 00:31On the State Capitol room setting - 01:162023 legislative session impact for MDOT - 02:18Importance of multimodal investment - 05:55Dick Hall welcome center - 08:02Funding for capacity project highlights - 09:47Current MDOT priorities - 13:38Response to recent storms - 17:04Favorite place(s) to eat - 19:47Favorite music - 20:31Updates on Will's family - 21:41Show outro - 22:41
2023-04-1323 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Assistant Attorney General Roy TiptonAssistant 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 - 00:30Professional experience prior to MDOT - 01:25Beginnings at MDOT - 03:00Government career versus private practice - 03:44Why working for MDOT is great - 05:12Demonstrative evidence for a cofferdam - 06:46First design contract with MDOT for the Greenville bridge - 09:00Tanglefoot Trail and Long Leaf Trace railroads projects - 12:16Selling a helicopter - 14:02Favorite food place(s) - 15:50What's next for Roy...
2023-04-0619 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: State Representative Manly BartonState 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 - 00:29How Representative Barton became a public servant - 01:20Where we're at in the 2023 legislative session - 02:52Serving in the Vietnam War - 04:29Overview of the Local and Private Legislation Committee - 08:14On career and technical training in Mississippi - 12:14About the Career Coaches Program - 16:22Four-lane Highway 57 project - 19:30Representative Barton's favorite place...
2023-03-3026 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: State Senator Rita Potts ParksState 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 - 00:30Why Senator Potts Parks decided to run for public office - 01:21Senator Potts Parks' business background - 02:18Comments on the current status of the 2023 legislative session - 03:34Transportation infrastructure legislation progress - 05:05Explanation of Hospital Nurses Retention Loan Repayment Program - 07:52Updates on redesign of HELP Grant and MTAG programs - 9:00Transportation projects in Alcorn...
2023-03-2315 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: MDOT Chief of Staff Jeff ElyMDOT 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 - 00:30Jeff Ely's career with MDOT - 01:39Overview of what the MDOT Chief of Staff does - 02:49What life is like working at MDOT - 04:22On the Governor's $1.3 billion proposal - 07:35Updates on the recent legislative funding proposals - 09:50Election campaign sign policies and considerations along roads - 11:21Regarding the legislative hearing on...
2023-03-1017 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: State Representative Charles BusbyState 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 - 00:29Update what's happening in the session as of March 1 - 01:23Overview of transportation legislation during the 2023 session - 03:20Conversation and legislation involving electric autonomous vehicles - 07:08Importance of thinking about the future of transportation now - 10:12More on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund and what's next for the program - 12:37Projects g...
2023-03-0221 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean TindellMississippi 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 - 00:29Commissioner Tindell's career and how he got into public service - 01:30School Guardian Act legislation - 04:30Overview of what DPS does - 06:57Law enforcement team members at DPS - 10:04Driver's License Services program upgrades - 11:54Changes to firearm permits procedures - 13:11Autonomous vehicles legal...
2023-02-2323 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: State Senator Jenifer BranningState 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 - 00:29Where we're at in the 2023 legislative session - 02:01Legislation Senator Branning is watching - 03:25Dick Hall Welcome Center in Vicksburg - 04:07Latest on the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 05:20Thoughts on a sustainable funding mechanism for transportation infrastructure - 07:45On the future of the user fee for electric vehicles - 08:50Autonomous vehicles at the Capitol during...
2023-02-1617 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Governor Tate ReevesGovernor 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 - 00:29The history of the Mississippi Governor's Mansion - 00:47On the COVID pandemic and other emergencies the governor has dealt with - 01:52The importance of having a competent staff to move from issue to issue quickly - 04:07On the importance of transportation infrastructure and its impact on economic growth...
2023-02-0916 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy GipsonAgriculture 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 - 00:27Miss being in the legislature? - 01:45Preview of the Dixie National Rodeo - 02:39Musical guests/entertainment lineup for the Dixie National Rodeo - 03:56On the new Trade Mart - 05:04Legislation that Commissioner Gipson and the Department of Agriculture and Commerce are watching - 08:31On the problem of cattle theft in...
2023-02-0222 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: State Representative Chris BellState 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 - 00:28Why run for public office and become an elected official? - 01:27How did Rep. Bell get down to Mississippi from Chicago? - 02:33On the different committees that he is a member of - 03:26On the measures going through the legislature, including a focus on the City of Jackson - 04:24An update on what's going on with tourism i...
2023-01-2615 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Lieutenant Governor Delbert HosemannLieutenant 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 - 00:29Reflecting on last year's legislation for MDOT, thoughts on gap between appropriations and projects beginning - 01:53Explainer on the first deadline of the 2023 legislative session - 06:48Any other transportation infrastructure-related topics of interest during the 2023 legislative session? - 08:35Other priorities besides transportation this session - 11:58Focus on getting water and sewer repairs done around the state - 16:13On the rural broadband expansion rollout - 18:04Major accomplishments...
2023-01-2326 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Speaker of the House Philip GunnSpeaker 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 - 00:28Looking back at a successful 2022 legislative session for MDOT - 01:38Anything going on in the House with MDOT and transportation infrastructure this session - 06:38Conversations regarding the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 08:15On what's happening with the income tax - 08:38Highlights and greatest accomplishments as Mississippi House Speaker - 12:40A pitch to visit...
2023-01-1223 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2023: Associated Press Reporter Emily Wagster PettusAssociated 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 - 00:28How did Emily Wagster Pettus get into journalism? - 01:30Why become a political reporter in particular? - 02:14Look forward to the session every year? - 02:56On the changing media landscape and how information now gets dispersed - 03:19Any memories of covering MDOT over the years? - 04:40On the differences with a legislative session during an election year - 05:57What's going on with MDOT during the 2023 legislative session...
2023-01-0518 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Executive Director Brad White - 2022 RecapMDOT 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 - 00:14Looking back at 2022 including the legislative session, funding and salary adjustments - 01:01Looking ahead to major projects in 2023 - 02:44On extra money from legislature, inflation and how this funding is helping to keep projects on track and escalate a few tracks - 03:52On the 2023 legislative session and what to expect for MDOT - 04:37The difference when it comes to...
2022-12-1915 min
The Extra Mile PodcastCentral District Transportation Commissioner Willie SimmonsCentral 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 - 00:27Commissioner Simmons background and why he ran for state senator and transportation commissioner - 01:13How Commissioner Simmons got interested in serving on the transportation committee in the state senate - 02:23On working with Commissioner Tom King and the late Commissioner Dick Hall in the state senate - 03:37Commissioner Simmons' interest in rural transportation needs - 04:35On M...
2022-12-0524 min
The Extra Mile PodcastDistrict 7 Engineer Albert WhiteDistrict 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 - 00:27Background information on District Engineer Albert White - 01:11On his career at MDOT and what led him to become a district engineer - 01:34Other stops besides District 7 in Albert White's MDOT career - 03:03What things have kept him at MDOT for such a long time? - 05:24The family nature of working at MDOT - 06:31Most memorable projects...
2022-11-2121 min
The Extra Mile PodcastSouthern District Transportation Commissioner Tom KingMDOT 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 - 00:30Commissioner Tom King announces his retirement at the end of the current term - 1:25Reflecting on 31-years of public service in the military, state senate, state house and transportation commission - 02:07Looking back on favorite memories during his career as an elected official - 03:01On signature legislation in...
2022-11-1610 min
The Extra Mile PodcastNorthern District Transportation Commissioner John CaldwellNorthern 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 - 00:28Background information on Commissioner Caldwell - 1:00Why he decided to run for transportation commissioner - 01:19On Commissioner Caldwell's military service and how it impacts his current job - 01:48Commissioner Caldwell on the importance of Veterans Day - 02:37What's going on in the Northern District? - 05:08The challenges that MDOT faces a...
2022-11-0722 min
The Extra Mile PodcastStarkville Mayor Lynn SpruillStarkville 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 - 00:27Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill on her career and why she ran for mayor - 01:08First woman in the history of the Airforce to qualify as Carrier Pilot - 05:34On the second time being a mayor with the first being in Addison, Texas - 05:48MDOT projects going on in the City of Starkville - 09:05The importance...
2022-10-2426 min
The Extra Mile PodcastOxford Mayor Robyn TannehillOxford 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 - 00:29Why did she run for Mayor of Oxford? - 01:41On the many roundabouts in Oxford and why they work for the city - 03:58Any other MDOT projects that Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill wants to highlight - 06:34On the explosion of growth in the City of Oxford - 07:35On the "We Get to...
2022-10-0319 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in LaurelMDOT 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 - 00:28An overview of the State Route 15 Safety Improvement Project in Laurel from Kelly Castleberry - 01:07Third-most accident prone corridor in the state and other statistics - 02:03Reading out statistics that back up why this project needs to be done - 02:45Highways with center turn lane outdated? - 03:38On similar projects around the state such as State Route 12 in Starkville - 04:57Next step...
2022-09-2610 min
The Extra Mile PodcastFormer Governor Haley BarbourFormer 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 - 00:31More information on Governor Barbour's career including why he ran for office - 01:00On memorable Hurricane Katrina stories, which happened during Gov. Barbour's administration - 04:30MDOT crews as first responders during disasters like Hurricane Katrina - 08:38On the debris left by Hurricane Katrina - 11:42On Marsha Barbour's (Governor's wife) role in Hurricane Katrina recovery - 12:29T...
2022-09-1931 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian RatliffMDOT 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 - 00:30Recapping and putting a bow on the Highway 49 project in Rankin County - 01:28On being patient when it comes to construction projects, being worth it in the end - 03:21Wrapping up the Interstate 20 bridge replacement project in Jackson - 04:37Other project updates in the...
2022-08-2918 min
The Extra Mile PodcastDr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation & DevelopmentThe 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 - 00:31Background on Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development - 01:04What's the "Development" portion of the "Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development" mean? - 04:29How do MDOT and Louisiana DOT work together? - 06:50What happens when a major hurricane strikes the area, info on Contraflow? - 10:34Why Dr. Shawn Wilson b...
2022-08-1520 min
The Extra Mile PodcastState Senator Jenifer Branning and State Representative Scott Bounds at NCF 2022State 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 - 00:27State Representative Scott Bounds on his new role as President of the Neshoba County Fair - 01:24Rep. Bounds gives history and synopsis of the Neshoba County Fair - 03:14Rep. Bounds on the political element of the Neshoba County Fair - 06:05Rep. Bounds on the logistics of the fair - 07:02Rep. Bounds on the attendance of the Neshoba County...
2022-08-0126 min
The Extra Mile PodcastFormer Governor Ronnie MusgroveFormer 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 - 00:29Information on Former Governor Ronnie Musgrove, background on why he ran for governor - 1:01Governor Musgrove's connection to the old Mississippi Highway Department, now MDOT - 03:06How Governor Musgrove worked with MDOT to advance transportation interests - 05:54Story about vetoing initial contraflow legislation and reworking the pact between Mississippi and Louisiana - 07:53PSA: Former MDOT Central District Commissioner Dick Hall on work zo...
2022-07-1824 min
The Extra Mile PodcastAdministrator of the Federal Highway Administration Nuria FernandezNuria 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 - 00:29More on $650,000 rural transportation grant (Areas of Persistent Poverty Program) for Claiborne County - 01:04 Why Claiborne County for this grant? - 02:00Background information on Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration Nuria Fernandez -02:33Administrator Fernandez on the emotional testimonial of a public transit user in Claiborne County - 04:55Overview of the Federal Transportation Administration f...
2022-07-0512 min
The Extra Mile PodcastHattiesburg Mayor Toby BarkerThe 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 - 00:28Background and how Mayor Barker made it to Hattiesburg - 01:33What led him to run for Mayor of Hattiesburg after 10 years in the Mississippi House or Representatives - 02:34How does the City of Hattiesburg work with MDOT to accomplish transportation infrastructure goals - 04:05Fun story of...
2022-06-2021 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraneyThe 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 - 00:30Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Stephen McCraney on his background and experience - 01:30Overview of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency - 03:21On MDOT's role during hurricane season - 08:26MEMA's Radiation Preparedness Program - 09:32How can the public stay in the loop during emergencies? - 10:11On MEMA's emergency response vehicles - 11:38On how contraflow works - 12:47What should...
2022-06-0624 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMississippi Today Editor-at-Large Marshall RamseyMississippi 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 - 00:29Introducing Mississippi Today Editor-at-Large Marshall Ramsey - 00:52Background, why did Marshall Ramsey decide to be an editorial cartoonist? - 01:40MMarshall Ramsey on his creative process - 03:33Marshall Ramsey on overcoming creative block - 05:19On the balance between fact-based journalism and humor - 06:40On covering MDOT and any memories from covering the agency - 08:10...
2022-05-2326 min
The Extra Mile PodcastFormer Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick HallFormer 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 - 00:27Introducing former MDOT Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall - 01:14Background on former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall - 01:25Commissioner Dick Hall on being a part of the legislature vs. being transportation commissioner - 01:58On when Commissioner Dick first met MDOT Executive Director Brad White - 03:17Important projects that stick out in...
2022-05-0932 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: MDOT Executive Director Brad WhiteMDOT 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 - 01:26The new expectations that come with additional funding and salary increase at MDOT - 04:36Additional money to help speed up projects, help with inflation - 05:54Recap of MDOT's Fallen Worker Memorial Ceremony - 06:40Increase in roadway fatalities, what motorists can do to help with this - 08:43Refresher on the I...
2022-04-1821 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: Lieutenant Governor Delbert HosemannLieutenant 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 - 00:15Lieutenant Governor Hosemann as an avid marathoner - 00:56 What drove Lt. Governor Hosemann to get into politics - 01:41On his decision to go from Secretary of State to Lt. Governor - 05:27Breakdown of the additional money being sent to MDOT from the Mississippi legislature - 06:15Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann on former MDOT Commissioner Dick Hall - 10:50Money for ports ...
2022-04-1127 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: Legislation Update and I-20 Closure PreviewAs 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 - 00:16MDOT's Will Craft, Government and Constituent Affairs, provides updates on legislation affecting the agency - 00:53Update on the next iteration of the Emergency Road and Bridge Repair Fund - 05:16Gas tax holiday update - 06:36Introducing MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Brian Ratliff - 07:42Closure...
2022-04-0419 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Senator Barbara BlackmonState 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 - 00:15Get to know State Senator Barbara Blackmon, how she go into politics - 00:59Why she got back into politics after leaving in 2003 - 03:00Role as Chair of the Housing Committee in the Senate - 4:34Overview of what's going on with the Highways and Transportation Committee - 05:49 Future of the Emergency Road and B...
2022-03-2813 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Representative Richard BennettState 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 - 00:16How State Representative Richard Bennett got into politics -00:55Representative Bennett on the teacher pay raise legislation - 02:48 Information on conference weekend, last two weeks of the 2022 Mississippi legislative session - 04:30More on conference reports - 05:25Legislation helping to provide higher education to foster care kids - 06:10Importance of transportation, any projects going on i...
2022-03-2114 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Senator John HorhnState 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 - 00:16Getting to Senator Horhn, how he got into politics - 00:50 Thoughts on the the importance of transportation, any challenges to advance transportation in Mississippi - 05:38Electric and autonomous vehicles - 06:43Role as Chairman of Labor Committee and Vice-Chair of Tourism Committee - 08:12Keeping an eye on any legislation? - 09:33Importance of...
2022-03-1420 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Senator Hob BryanState 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 - 00:17Life in Amory - 01:00How did State Senator Hob Bryan get into politics? - 01:28On his role as the Public Health and Welfare Chair in the Senate - 02:10Memories of the 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program in Mississippi - 03:10Highway Department becoming the Department of Transportation - 10:06Amory referred to as the Railroad Subdivision - 15:43Vision 21 and data-driven decision...
2022-03-0725 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Representative Trey LamarState 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 LamarShow introShow intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17Guest: State Representative Trey LamarState Representative Trey Lamar's time as an Ole Miss football player during Eli Manning years - 00:49Background information and why he decided to run for the Mississippi House of Representatives - 01:57...
2022-02-2820 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: U.S. Congressman Michael GuestU.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 introShow intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17Guest: 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 - 10:30Overview of committees that Con...
2022-02-2132 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: Secretary of State Michael WatsonSecretary 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 WatsonShow intro Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:17 Guest: Secretary of State Michael WatsonWhat brought Secretary Michael Watson to serve in public office? - 01:12What drove you to see out the Secretary of State's office - 02:46Secretary Watson's take on what's going...
2022-02-1419 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy GipsonCommissioner 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 GipsonShow intro Show intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:16 Guest: Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy GipsonWhat got Commissioner Gipson into politics? - 01:20Why is it important for MDOT and the Department of Agriculture and...
2022-02-0722 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Senator Angela Turner-FordState 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 introShow intro with hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:16Guest: State Senator Angela Turner FordIntroducing Senator Angela Turner Ford – 00:49What led Senator Tuner Ford to politics – 1:20What measures will come up in the Public Property Committee? – 1:50Why is it important to have a robust transportation network in Mississippi? – 2:30What hurdl...
2022-01-3109 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Representative Charles BusbyState 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 introIntroducing hosts Paul Katool and Will Craft - 00:22Guest: State Representative Charles BusbyIntroducing Representative Charles Busby - 00:43Rep. Busby goes into his engineering background - 1:51Major transportation measures that stand out this session – 2:22Hurdles the state faces to advance transportation infrastructure: autonomous vehicles, limited access roadways, unman...
2022-01-2420 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: State Senator Jenifer BranningState 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 introIntroducing guest hosts Jas N Smith and Katey Hornsby - 00:27Guest: State Senator Jenifer BranningIntroducing Senator Jenifer Branning - 00:54Breakdown of Appropriations subcommittee meetings and what they mean for state agencies - 1:33MDOT brief on budget request for next year - 2:39Highlights of first two weeks of the session - 3:54Overv...
2022-01-1719 min
The Extra Mile PodcastLegislative Session 2022: Speaker of the House Philip GunnSpeaker 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 GunnShow introIntroducing Will Craft, co-host of The Extra Mile: Legislative Session - 00:28Will Craft - where has he been and what brought him to MDOT - 00:48Will Craft's role at MDOT - 02:14Guest: Speaker of the House Philip GunnIntroducing Speaker of the House Philip Gunn - 05:01Why is important for Mississippi to have a strong...
2022-01-1026 min
The Extra Mile PodcastThe Extra Mile: Legislative Session 2022 TeaserIntroducing 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.
2021-12-2101 min
The Extra Mile PodcastBrad White Recaps First 6 MonthsMDOT 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 MonthsShow intro with Paul and Waverly Plugging MDOT's travel resources in advance of the holidaysGuest: MDOT Executive Director Brad WhiteBrad recaps his first six months on the job Brad's observations of MDOT during his first six monthsRecap of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs ActSkill and expertise of MDOT employees, using State Route 26 repair as an...
2021-12-0220 min
The Extra Mile PodcastInfrastructure Bill Breakdown with Brad WhiteDuring 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 WhiteShow introGuest: MDOT Executive Director Brad WhiteBrad breaks down the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, including reauthorization of funds and some additional moneyWhat the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds can be used forHow quickly will the new funds be able to be used?Clarification on the fact that this money is...
2021-11-1808 min
The Extra Mile PodcastConnecting the Dots with Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr."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 NotesShow 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 developmentHow relationships — at the...
2021-11-0321 min
The Extra Mile PodcastMDOT's Newest PIO & a Deeper Look into Intermodal PlanningThe 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 NotesShow intro with Paul and Waverly Guest: David Kenney, MDOT Northern District Public Information OfficerRecap of time working in news including over 20 years at WLBTTalks about making transition from working as a...
2021-10-0725 min
The Extra Mile PodcastHurricane Ida Response & MDOT Construction ProcessThe 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 WaverlyGuest: 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 Coun...
2021-09-0326 min
The Extra Mile PodcastWork Zone Safety & Highway 49, I-20 updatesEpisode 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 NotesShow intro with Paul and Waverly Guest: Brian Ratliff, MDOT Deputy Executive Director/Chief EngineerBrian's background, different roles at MDOT MDOT adapting and keeping Mississippi moving in a COVID-19 world How dangerous is it for the MDO...
2021-08-0523 min
The Extra Mile PodcastThe First MileThe 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 NotesShow 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/ma...
2021-07-0127 min
The Extra Mile PodcastPilot EpisodeIntroducing 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.
2021-06-2101 min