In this episode of Growing Pains, host Deanne DeWitt sits down with Toby Ellis, Sumner County Road Superintendent, for a behind-the-scenes look at the work that quite literally keeps the county moving. From growing up in a family paving business to leading large-scale infrastructure projects across Middle Tennessee, Toby shares how a lifelong passion for roads turned into a calling to serve his community.
The conversation explores what it really takes to build and maintain safe, reliable infrastructure in one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing counties. Toby explains why investing in roads now saves taxpayers money later, how ARPA funding helped accelerate long-overdue improvements, and what it means to pave more than 200 miles of county roads in a single term. He also pulls back the curtain on the unseen work of the highway department, from bridge maintenance and drainage to signage, mowing, striping, and emergency response during storms.
They discuss the human side of infrastructure as well, including building a culture where county employees feel respected, fairly compensated, and proud of their work. Toby shares concerns about worker safety in active work zones, the importance of public patience during construction, and how new technology and transparency tools will help residents better understand where their tax dollars are going. Grounded in service, experience, and long-term vision, this episode shows how roads are more than asphalt, they’re the foundation of a thriving Sumner County.
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Hosted by Deanne DeWitt, Growing Pains is the official podcast of the Sumner County Republican Freedom Caucus, featuring candid, in-depth conversations with the leaders, movers, and shakers shaping our local government and community.
From business development and public policy to education, infrastructure, and responsible growth. Each episode dives into how decisions made today impact the future of Sumner County. Guests include elected officials, policy experts, business owners, law enforcement leaders, educators, and citizens who are actively working to keep our county strong, accountable, and forward-thinking.
Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply passionate about your community, Growing Pains offers insight into how local leadership, conservative principles, and collaborative problem-solving can help Gallatin and Sumner County grow the right way, preserving our legacy while protecting our future.