GDOT Ahead of the Curve Podcast

Shutting Down to Level Up: The 285 Rebuild Episode

In this episode of Ahead of the Curve, host Natalie Dale breaks down GDOT’s major effort to upgrade and replace key segments of I-285 West in Fulton and Cobb counties. Natalie sits down with Director of Construction Patrick Allen and State Traffic Engineer Sam Harris to discuss the rebuilding process for I-285 and share how motorists can stay informed about upcoming closures.

Catching up with Commissioner McMurry

In this episode, host Natalie Dale sits down with GDOT Commissioner Russell McMurry to discuss how GDOT is meeting the growing demands on our transportation infrastructure through innovation and strategic investment. Commissioner McMurry also shares insights into his new role as AASHTO president and the value of work-life balance.

Women in Transportation

This special episode of Ahead of the Curve coincides with Women's History Month and is dedicated to the women in transportation. Host Natalie Dale moderates a live panel discussion about the diverse roles and significant contributions of women within the Georgia DOT. The panel consists of the following women who share professional insights about their career journeys at Georgia DOT: Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, Angela Whitworth, Treasurer, Merishia Coleman, Executive Assistant to the Chief Engineer, Katina Lear, Assistant Strategic Communications Director, and Natasha Davis, Assistant District 1 Engineer . RESOURCES Celebrating Women in Transportation [https://www.dot.ga.gov/GDOT/Pages/WomeninTransportation.aspx] The Extra Mile Blog: Women Advancing GDOT's Legacy [https://www.dot.ga.gov/GDOT/Pages/ExtraMileBlogDetails.aspx?postID=1295]

FIFA World Cup 2026

In this episode, host Natalie Dale explores the multi-agency collaboration for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. Georgia DOT's Permits & Operations Division Director Alan Davis and D7 District Engineer Paul DeNard, along with MARTA’s Deputy General Manager Rhonda Allen, discuss the behind-the-scenes work taking place to keep the region moving.

Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is a devastating crime that occurs in communities across our state and nation, including along our transportation network—on roadways, at rest areas and welcome centers, in airports, and in other public spaces. Georgia DOT is deeply committed to combating human trafficking, not only in Georgia but wherever it occurs. In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January, we are taking every opportunity to raise awareness about how to recognize and report potential trafficking activity. As part of that effort, this episode of Ahead of the Curve features Susan Norris, a nationally recognized subject matter expert who has dedicated nearly two decades to the fight against human trafficking and currently serves as the Founder and Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Rescuing Hope, Inc. She joins host Natalie Dale for a thoughtful and informative conversation on this challenging but critical issue. In this episode, listeners will learn how they can help, what warning signs to look for, and what steps to take if they suspect human trafficking. While some of the language and subject matter may be difficult for some listeners, these conversations are essential to building awareness—and awareness leads to action. Georgia DOT believes that informed action can help bring an end to human trafficking. Georgia DOT thanks you for sharing in this commitment and encourages you to report suspected human trafficking activity to the statewide 24-hour Georgia Human Trafficking Hotline at (866) 363-4842. In the kickoff to season 4, Natalie Dale sits down with Susan Norris, Founder of Rescue Hope to discuss human trafficking in Georgia—what it looks like, how it impacts communities, and how awareness, prevention, and coordinated action can save lives.