Around The Layout – A Model Railroad Podcast

It's nearly time for the granddaddy of them all - the Railroad Hobby Show in West Springfield, Massachusetts. To get ready for what I like to call "The SEMA of Model Railroading", we sit down with the man with the master plan, John Sacerdote who tells us about all the exciting things one can expect with the two-day show that's become a destination model railroad event.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/139

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Model railroading, photography, history and railfanning. They all tie together for Middletown, New York's Erik Pioselli. A guy that's been listening to the podcast since day one, Erik gets the chance to tell his story, from watching the Lehigh & Hudson Railroad as a youngster to an ill-advised yet prosperous ride with a stranger turned mentor, then inheriting an amazing collection of photographs that captured railroading from New York to California. Erik shares his passion for history and the model railroad lessons he's learned through trial and error.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/138

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released April 2, 2024

On this episode of Around The Layout, we meet Bruce Ryan, who grew up in New York City and now finds himself in the Finger Lakes region of New York recreating railroading in the West Side of Manhattan where he grew up in the 1960's. Bruce shares how early influences led him to model Albany before a trip to Baltimore resparked an interest in the marine and railroad history of the Big Apple. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our show sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our show sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

We've talked quite a bit about freelance on Around The Layout Podcast, but now it's time to discuss a deeper dedication to the prototype with Isaac Fabris. Isaac shares the steps he's taking to make his CN/IC Gilman Sub/Heyworth Spur as close to an accurate representation of the prototype as he can. He also shares his theories on compression and how one can still provide authenticity in a smaller space.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/137

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released March 26, 2024

On this episode of Around The Layout, we head down under and to the other side of the International Date Line to talk to Darren Lee in Queensland, Australia. Darren tells us about his start in the hobby and how he went from modeling North American railroads to one a lot closer to home thanks to some incredible access to the prototype. Additionally, Darren tells us about the Wattle Flat proto-freelance railroad he's created and how he's using his layout to introduce his model railroad "mates" to the wonderful world of operations. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

'Tis the season for twinkling lights, but the ones we're talking about aren't on a Christmas tree. They are the LED's that bring remarkable realism to your layout in the form of lighted vehicles and details from East Coast Circuits. Business Manager Neal Multz from ECC joins Tony and Ray to share the latest from this Rhode Island based company, including their upgrades to fire trucks, pickups, construction barrels and more. Later, Tony tells us about new releases from Bachmann, Rapido Trains, MAC Rail Products and more. 

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/136

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released March 12, 2024

Keeping a long family tradition of railroading, Allen Whitaker comes by to tell us about how, from a young age, he was exposed to the prototype, particularly the Southern Railway which inspired his freelance Tennessee Southern Railway. Allen shares how his career as a railroader has affected operations on his layout, and how knowing too much can be a challenge as a model railroader. Later, Allen shares his experience with having the Tennessee Southern included in a Home Shops run that features some of his model railroading idols.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

You don't need a massive layout to create long lasting and enjoyable operations. That's the message Paul Cassar delivers on this episode of Talking Ops with Don Irace as he describes his River Belt Line HO scale switching layout. Paul tells us how he's centered operations around a freelance concept involving 3 fallen flag railroads and the cornerstone industry of a brewery. Paul also talks switchlists and how he's turned them into a hobby within the hobby. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/135

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Ditch Light Productions:
https://www.facebook.com/DitchLightProductions

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released February 27, 2024

In our past interviews, we've found that freelance model railroaders have amazing stories to tell and Tim Garland is no exception. On this episode, Tim tells us how he got started in the hobby and how at 14 years old, his mind was made up about becoming a railroader. Tim shares how the story of the Seaboard Central was developed, how it's a form of protest against changes he's observed in the railroad industry, and how the second version of the layout is being built differently from the first and in a way that keeps the flywheel turning without being overwhelming.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

It's a pure joy to meet modelers from around the globe and explore their why. On this episode, we're introduced to Justin Mitchell from Sydney, Australia who, from a young age, has been fascinated with the Santa Fe and is recreating the 1950's Surf Line. Justin tells us how, from thousands of miles and decades away, learned about this California coast line and applied it to his layout.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/134

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Episode Originally Released February 6, 2024

How did a Brit decide to model an American railroad? Blame it on Budweiser! That's one of the things we learn on this episode of Around The Layout as we chat with Steve McEwen about his model railroading journey and how his trips to the United States influenced his choice to model the New York & Atlantic Railway in a freelance way that addresses his wants in an operating layout. We also learn the why behind Steve's YouTube channel, The British Railroader.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Ditch Light Productions:
https://www.facebook.com/DitchLightProductions

Ever been to someone's layout and said "I have that exact kit!" Perhaps it's time to make your layout industries unique to you and your layout with a more prototypical approach. Kevin Tully of Tully Models tells us how, from learning more about industries such as grain and feed mills, then taking what you've learned and adding it to your facilities. We also find a common theme in the answers submitted for the Question Of The Month.

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/133

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Ditch Light Productions:
https://www.facebook.com/DitchLightProductions

ATLP Rewind - Episode Originally Released January 30, 2024

Want proof that the hobby isn't dying and young folks are into model railroading? Allow us to present, once again, Isaac Fabris and his CN/IC Heyworth Spur. It's been quite a while, so we were overdue for an update and Isaac brings us up to speed on the changes he's made on his layout and how changing his era has allowed him to narrow his focus, keep what he loves, but set up guardrails that keeps him from buying all of the latest locomotive releases. Isaac's biggest news is that he's an expectant father, and after hearing bad parenting advice from Ray, he shares how his growing family will eventually yield a bigger home and a bigger layout and the plan he already has to expand upon his current layout.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

The holiday season is fast approaching and it's time to get your wish list ready. On this episode of What's Happening In Model Railroading, we talk to Mike and Jeff Zucker from Spring Creek Model Trains to find out what should be in your letter to Santa and discuss how to buy the right train set for the enthusiastic child to keep them engaged. Later, Tony and I talk about new releases from Rapido, InterMountain, Broadway Limited and more.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/132

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://steelmillmodelerssupply.com/tully-models/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 23, 2024

Neil Schofield and his CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision has been our guest wish list since the start of the podcast, so when Neil reached out to be on the podcast, there was quite the celebration! Before telling us about his amazing layout, Neil tells us about his start in model railroading and forcing the transition era on his dad's steam era layout and how road trips to the northernmost parts of New England planted the seed for his Vermont based layout.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

It's been nearly two years to the day since we last had Sammy Carlile on Around The Layout Podcast and considering the amazing amount of things to talk about with his Santa Fe Hereford Subdivision, that's completely unacceptable! Making up for lost time, he's our guest for this month's Talking Ops with Don Irace, where Sammy shared how he developed his operating scheme, runs a whole bunch of trains, and keeps his operating crew busy and on their toes.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/131

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Relased December 26, 2023

Author and professional model railroad builder Lance Mindheim returns to Around The Layout with a couple of new books tucked under his arm. Since the last time he appeared, he's released two new "how and why" books, 8 Track Plans For Modern Era Swiching Layouts and Scenery For Modern Switching Layouts. Lance shares with us the motivation for writing and takes an opportunity to tell us more about his former East Rail layout, The Downtown Spur, and how he is recreating the East Rail layout with the appropriately named East Rail 2, using improved techniques learned in 50 years of model railroading.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com//

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

We all know Rapido Trains for their high quality models, but how about books? On this special What's Happening In Model Railroading, Tony Cook and I sit down with Jason Shron of Rapido Trains to talk books, including the newly released "The Cars of VIA Heritage Fleet Volume 1." Jason shares his passion for VIA passenger cars and tells us how he's become involved with the preservation of Canadian passenger equipment.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/130

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 9, 2024

On this episode of Around The Layout, we check in with Paul Cassar. Paul's not only the Executive Producer of Around The Layout; he's quite the modeler and he provides us with updates on his River Belt Line HO scale layout located in his garage in New South Wales, Australia. Paul talks about scratchbuilding, weathering, and super detailing the layout and how his choice to keep the layout relatively small has provided the time to drill into the details. Additionally, Ray and Paul talk about working together on the podcast and how it has become another aspect of the hobby to enjoy.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

They say that music can bring people together, and, in the case of Joey Giunto, it can also lead to meeting your model railroad mentor. On this episode of Around The Layout, Joey shares his model railroading journey and how a music gig led him to meeting a great friend and how they lifted each other up in the hobby. Joey also shares how, after his mentor's passing, he keeps his memory alive through his modeling efforts.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/129

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

ATLP Rewind - Episode Originally Released January 2, 2024

After hosting myself and fellow podcasters Andy Dorsch and Tom Gasior on his TSG Live Talking Trains, it was great to have John Abatecola stop by the Around The Layout studio. John tells us about his hobby within the hobby; creating videos to share his model railroading and prototype adventures with the masses. He talks about his work with Jack Burgess and how filming trains is so much better than a funeral!

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Layout Command Control - it sounds cool, but what exactly is it? On this episode of ATLP, Dave Barraza tells us the basics of LCC, how the standard was developed and, most importantly, how it can help bring our layouts to life. Dave shares how he's using LCC on his layout and how it compares to the electronics used on the prototype.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/128

Enter for a chance to win a free t-shirt - email [email protected] and put "show notes" in the subject line. Entries must be received by October 31.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released December 12, 2023

Meet Campbell Rice, a man who has moved more times than the Raiders football team, but has carried his passion for model railroading with him along the way. Campbell takes us along on the journey through several states and multiple layout builds, leading to his recent move back to Tennessee and the development of the freelanced Tennessee Western Railway HO scale layout. It's a story of perseverance that you don't want to miss.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Christopher Palomarez from InterMountain Railway Co joined Tony and I from somewhere along the road in Colorado to share the latest on the projects being churned out of Longmont. Chris shares some insight on the process of creating factory weathered cars with pad printing plus updates on some upcoming releases. Later, Tony and Ray discuss news out of Walthers, Rapido, Division Point and more.

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/127

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released November 14, 2023

One of the most memorable stops during the whirlwind week of the Texas Express 2023 NMRA National Convention was the visit to Devin Jackson & Family's Mesquite Belt, located about 2 hours south of Fort Worth in the town of Palestine. Joining me on the trip were Don Irace and Mark Herrick and on arrival, we were amazed to see a depot building in the backyard containing a large and well done HO scale layout. On this episode, we talk about that visit and how the depot building, name and layout came to be. We also learn how this project has been a family affair and how all Jacksons have benefited from the hobby.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Drew James, owner of the Canada Spokane & Pacific, made his return to the ATLP studio, picking up where he left off from last July. Drew tells us about how the operations on his layout have evolved, his efforts to keep things fresh for his group of operators and answers the question, "why is there a wye?" 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/126

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Steel Mill Modelers Supply and Southern-Tier Grain Modelers Supply:
tullymodels.com

Kevin Leddy joins us to talk about the 4th Annual Red River RPM being held in Forest Hill, TX October 25-26th. Kevin tells us how this RPM started, inspired by two very popular prototype modelers meets. He also tells us what you can expect to see, including a rundown of clinics, vendors, and the free-mo modular setups. Kevin also shares his passion for free-mo and tells us about the Red River Run Free-Mo event taking place in Elk City, Oklahoma in May 2025. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/124

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

On this episode of Around The Layout Podcast, we talk to model railroad product reviewer and author Ryan Crawford. Ryan provides us with an inside look into his process for writing reviews, including the prototype research, evaluating details, and sharing what you need to know to make an educated purchasing decision. Ryan and Ray also chat about the amazing advances in today's models and what they would like to see more of. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/123

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Model railroad show season is in full swing on the top half of the equator, and, in the northeast, the Nashua Valley Railroad Association's Railfair 2024 kicks things off. NVRRA members Thomas Fitzgerald and Peter D'Olimpio come by to tell us about their club, how they are building an incredibly large layout in Shirley, Massachusetts and how Railfair 2024 helps fund the good they are doing in the model railroad community. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/125

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

On this episode of Around The Layout, we head to New Jersey and talk to Ralph Heiss, owner of the Lehigh Valley Harbor Terminal HO scale layout and frequent operator of quite a few great layouts in the Garden State. Ralph tells us how he got started in the hobby and how he was operating at great layouts by the age of 17. He also shares how he researched the Lehigh Valley, his passion for the history and ghost railroading and how to make good use of free time gifted by a hurricane derived power outage.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/122

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Up on this side of the equator, the weather is cooling down and the model railroad events are heating up! Dan Riechenbach of the Hawkeye Model Railroad Club stops by the ATLP studio to tell us about the Iowa City Train Show on October 20, 2024. Dan shares a history of the club, their recent move to a new building and how the show helps support their new build. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/121

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

More and more, we find out that the folks at these fine model railroad manufactuers are hobbyists just like us, and this episode of What's Happening In Model Railroad is no exception. Jordan Smith joins Tony and Ray to tell a bit about himself, his start in the hobby and how he's worked his way up from working in a hobby shop in Toronto to wearing multiple hats for Rapido Trains. Later in the episode, Tony and Ray discuss new releases from Atlas, Walthers, ScaleTrains and more.

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/120

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released November 28, 2023

It's late November, but we're still talking about late August and the 2023 NMRA National Convention in Texas. During that week, I was fortunate enough to visit the outstanding layout of Mike Armstrong and it was a thrill to talk to him tonight about how his Rock Island Mid-Continent Route came to fruition. Mike shares the story of growing up in Iowa and the many influences during his youth that led to a successful prototype and model railroad journey. If you're a fan of big layouts and negative space, this episode is for you!

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

We head back to Tim Garland's Seaboard Central to cover what we didn't get to when we interviewed him the first time; operations on his freelance railroad. Don and I learn quite a bit from Tim, who's experience with the real railroad has provided him with a plethora of knowledge that he uses to create realistic operations on his freelance layout. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/119

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released October 31, 2023

Freelance model railroader and YouTuber Matt Forcum pays a virtual visit to the Around The Layout studio. Matt shares with us his model railroading journey that has includes stops in Lego and N scale on his way to HO scale and the Metaline Falls Railroad. He also tells us how he's using his MFRailroad YouTube channel to create a video journal of his layout build and share what he's learning along the way. In addition, his channel includes product reviews and his Rail Ramblin' segments, and Ray and Matt discuss the difficulties of sharing these thoughts in what can be a very opininated hobby. Closing out the show, Matt shares a tool he has created to help build switch lists for smaller railroads.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

We've seen many prototypical railroads bought and sold over the years, but how about a freelance model railroad changing hands? That's how current owner of the Brownville & Ashland, Chris Gilbert, took ownership of this Maine based short line. Oh, did I mention he's also in the United Kingdom? Chris tells us how this transaction went down, how he made the B&A his own, and how he got into modeling American railroading across the big pond. He also shares his experience working with Christopher Palmieri on his now sold out Home Shops / Prairie Shadows 50' hi-cube boxcar. 

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/118

Submit your answer to the Question of the Month:
aroundthelayout.com/question

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released October 24, 2023

Coming to us from northern Colorado - seemingly a hotbed of model railroading, is the creator of the BNSF Fall River Division, John Parker. John shares his model railroading story with us, from humble 4x8 beginnings to the beautiful empire he has today. We learn that he's had a lot of help along the way, and he shares how that dedicated group of friends helped him achieve the goal of a railroad empire in his basement that hosts 18 to 22 operators per session.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

What if we looked at our layouts like they were the stage of a grand performance? On this episode, the talented and thought provoking Scott Thornton comes by to share his passion for taking elements of the theatre and applying it to his model railroad. Scott shares how he uses similar approaches as they do on the stage with lighting, sound and props to make viewers of his layout feel like they are trackside on his IAIS Milan Branch.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/117

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Home Shops, LLC:
https://homeshops.net/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released September 26, 2023

Mike Landis has taken his childhood experience with the MKT Sedalia Subdivision and turned it into a passion that has led not only to writing the book Show Me Katy, but also an HO scale layout paying tribute to the railroad in the 1980's. Mike tells us about choosing the portion of the line that he relates to most and how video creation for his YouTube channel The Main Track provides motivation to continue learning and sharing his journey with others.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

The number of deep dive avenues that are available in the model railroading hobby is astounding, and Kevin Tully from TullyModels.com shares his path to 3D printing grain and steel mill super detailing parts. We learn how Kevin got started on this journey and how he can help you make your industries more realistic. Later, Tony and Ray discuss new releases from Athearn, ScaleTrains, Broadway Limited, Bachmann and more.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Home Shops LLC:
https://homeshops.net/


Learn more about this episode and find links on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/116

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released September 5, 2023

It's never too late to build your dream layout. Alan Saatkamp is a testament to this, as he, at age 70, is building the railroad he's always wanted, taking the experience of multiple layout builds and moves around the country to his new home in Normal, Illinois. Alan shares those experiences, from childhood to today, and tells us how his wife encouraged his return to model railroading for a family experience. He also offers his guidance on the right time to ask your spouse for more layout real estate (results may vary!). Alan also talks about his other hobby; creating a newsletter called Prairie Ponderings, a fun and informative digital publication that he shares with subscribers around the globe.

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

How can we take prototypical railroad rules and regulations and apply them to our layouts? That's what professional railroader Dustin Whitten is here to answer as he talks about taking pages from the railroad rulebook and using them to better the simulation of your model railroad. Dustin shares how these rules can be modified in compression with examples from his N&W South Branch. Look for this episode on Tuesday, August 13th.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/115

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released August 22, 2023

On this episode of Around The Layout, we get to know Paul August, owner of the C&NW Mondovi Line and the YouTube channel that covers it. Paul tells us about his family's roots in railroading and how that led to multiple generations of model railroaders including a father with a passion for brass steam locomotives. He also shares with us how moves in the midwest exposed him to different prototypes and how he landed on the Mondovi Line.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

After spending quality time with Michael Ostertag out in St. Louis, it was time to get him back on the show and hear about the major changes he's made on the Farlin Terminal. He's still committed to S scale, but has completely removed the first version and is taking a new, open ended approach to the next layout. Mike also shares the challenges of S scale and his hopes that a wider variety of product might open the door for more folks to explore the world of 1:64 scale.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/114

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

How can you not smile in the presence of Michelle Kempema? Her enthusiasm is infectious and her motivation nears limitless as she joins me to talk about the brand new Colorado Rail Proto Meet in Greeley, CO this September. Michelle shares with us how this idea came to be and how she's planning what will likely become another amazing destination RPM.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/113

Matthew Freix has a passion for car routing, and that might be an understatement! Matt shares the lengths he has gone to research the Gateway Western and how it helped him build a highly accurate simulation of the railroad in 1995. Matt shares how going way down the rabbit hole has made his model railroad more enjoyable and appear like he remembers it. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/112

Here's the audio from last night's live event where Ray talks about the results of the ATLP Listener Survey and how that has helped shape upcoming format changes to the podcast. 

For more about Around The Layout Podcast, visit our website:
aroundthelayout.com

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released May 9. 2023

We all know Andy Dorsch as the co-host of the wildly popular Second Section Podcast, but how much do you know about Andy the modeler? We find out in this episode of Around The Layout as Andy takes us back to his childhood railfanning the Chicago and North Western that planted the railroad seed, then on to adulthood as he developed his freelance Mascoutin Valley Railroad. Andy then shares how he met his co-host Michael Ostertag, leading to the development of the Second Section Podcast that facilitates the sharing of model railroading knowledge from some of the leading talent in the hobby.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Don Irace is back in the Around The Layout studio to tell us more about how he developed his operating scheme for his Providence & Worcester layout. Don shares how he took the large operations held at the original layout in Scituate, Rhode Island for a multitude of operators and compressed it for a smaller crew while still providing fun and challenging trains to run on a layout that still gives a solid representation of the prototype.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/111

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released June 27, 2023

After all of the past interrogations and information from informants, we've finally captured the Iowa Interstate Godfather; none other than Joe Atkinson himself. Now that we've beat the dead horse with this mafia thing, we can get down to the business of learning how Joe became such an authority on the Iowa Interstate, leading him to create two versions of the 4th Sub that has inspired fellow IAIS modelers and was featured in the January 2018 issue of Railroad Model Craftsman.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

With so much news to catch up on, it's just Tony and Ray on this episode of What's Happening In Model Railroading as they get you caught up on recent events and talk plans for the St. Louis RPM. They recap the recent Firecrown Media special and Ray shares his experience at the N Scale Show in Bethlehem PA. Later, Tony brings us news from ScaleTrains, Athearn, Bachmann and more.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Learn more about today's episode and get links to all the products discussed:
aroundthelayout.com/110

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released June 20, 2023

It's time to interrogate another member of the Iowa Interstate Mafia as we bring James McNab downtown for a whole line of questioning. Luckliy, James is willing to talk and we learn about his start in the hobby and how a fellow churchgoer's layout inspired him. We also hear how a change of employment led him to the Iowa Interstate and opened up a new world of railroading and friendships.

Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind

Thank you to our show sponsor, Southern Tier Grain Modelers Supply:
tullymodels.com

You've probably have heard of model railroaders that go on to become railroaders, but how about a railroader who starts their model railroading journey after hiring on to the railroad? That's the story of Dustin Whitten, a long time employee of Norfolk Southern who despite growing up near Southern Railway, has fallen for the Norfolk & Western. Dustin shares the lessons learned through 4 different layout builds and a run at freelance that led him to the N&W. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Learn more about this episode and see photos of the N&W South Branch on our website:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/episodes/109

Model Railroader - the "Rolling Stone" of our hobby - the magazine many of us grew up with, inspired us, and the one we dreamed of being on the cover someday. For those reasons and more, we're passionate about the publication and when the news hit that Kalmbach Media was purchased by a new owner, there was concern about the future. On this special episode of What's Happening In Model Railroading, Tony Cook and I talk to Firecrown Media CEO Craig Fuller and learn more about the new home for Model Railroader, Trains and the additional Kalmbach titles. Craig gives us an inside look at Firecrown and their plans to keep these legendary titles going for many years to come.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/

Learn more about today's episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/108

In this hobby, it's far too often that we see a layout meet its demise when its owner passes on, but on this episode, we hear the complete opposite in Michael Spoor's story. Michael shares with us how he has brought his late father's CB&Q layout back to operations, much to the delight of his father's friends, and has put his own signature on it with a slight change in time period and added the capability to move the clock forward to the time of his own youth. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/


Learn more about this episode and check out photos of Michael's CB&Q:
www.aroundthelayout.com/107

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released June 6, 2023

There's good news to deliver on this episode of Around The Layout - progress is being made in Washington DC - but only on the model railroading front. That progress is being made by Marty McGuirk, who joins us to share his model railroading story. Learn how a visit to New London, Connecticut became the precursor to an outstanding career and love for the Central Vermont. Marty also shares how a kitchen remodeling project eventually yielded a brand new layout area and how Lance Mindheim helped guide Marty on a "3-3-3" plan for his next model railroad.

Learn more about this episode and listen online:
aroundthelayout.com/43

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Southern Tier Grain Modelers Supply:
www.tullymodels.com

A litte freelance model railroading amongst friends - that's what we get with Brian Sopke's Benton & Southern. Brian shares with us his model railroading journey that led him to team with a friend to create a freelance model railroad that connects them together. Additionally, Brian tells us what he learned by starting over, taking down a layout of frustration and creating his current railroad using lessons from the past.

Learn more about this episode and find photos and additional links on our website:
www.aroundthelayout.com/episodes/106


Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released June 12, 2023

With Father's Day less than a week away, we got the father/son duo of William Sampson and William Sampson together to share their bond over model railroading. William Sr. tells us how railroad is in the Sampson blood, with ties to railroading in several generations. He then tells us how he got started in the hobby, with influences from his past leading him to model the Great Northern in 1970. He then shares how his model railroading journey got even better with the arrival of William Jr, who shares his memories of his father's layout and the many lessons and great times he shared with his dad.


Learn more about this episode and find photos and additional links on our website:
www.aroundthelayout.com/episodes/44


Thank you to our episode sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

Who is Prairie Shadows Model Railway Co? Jeff Arnold, Rob Gruber and Brandon Nawrocki join Tony Cook and Ray Arnott to tell us about how Prairie Shadows got its start working with model railroad manufacturers on special projects to breaking out on their own with projects in N and HO scale. The team shares the challenges of creating highly detailed and accurate models and the steps they take to ensure the model matches the prototype. Later, Tony Cook tells us about his big project of late - the HO Collector Annual that Ray found to be a walk down memory lane. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
www.springcreekmodeltrains.com

Learn more about this episode and find direct links on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/episodes/105

Saint Louis, Missouri - home of the Gateway Arch, and just about in the shadow of this national landmark resides the granddaddy of all railroad prototype modelers meets. Lonnie Bathurst, show producer, and frequent attendee Scott Thornton, tell us what makes the STLRPM a show that draws so many to the midwest in July to share models, knowledge, skills and, most importantly, comradarie. Lonnie shares this year's show theme, highlights the must-see events and tells us what we need to know to attend and display models at the show. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Scale Modeling by Kevin J. Tully:
https://steelmillmodelerssupply.com/

Learn more about this episode and find additonal links on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/episodes/104

It's been way too long since we've heard from John Farrington and there was quite a bit to catch up on. Since the last time we talked, John has not only gone bigger with his layout, he's also gone freelance with a great railroad name and an awesome logo thanks to a very talented graphic artist that's a familiar name here on the podcast. John also talks about doing custom work for others, including myself, and debunks the old Mark Twain saying "good fences make good neighbors" when it comes to getting guidance and support with his model railroad. 

Learn more about this episode on our website. Click the link below:
aroundthelayout.com/episodes/103

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aroundthelayout.com/social

Support the podcast and get the chance to win free stuff by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew:
aroundthelayout.com/crew

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released March 28, 2023

The Around The Layout (less than) six degrees of separation has led us to Matt Freix. A friend of past guests Dave Oppensano and Isaac Fabris, Matt joins us and tells his model railroading story; from his childhood modeling with a shovel of dirt on a 4x8 sheet of plywood to a beautifully finished basement where his Gateway Western's Subdivision 6 resides. Matt tells us about the prototype of his current layout and how friends, both in human and quick clamp form have helped him along his journey to recapture the glory of 1995. Matt also talks about the decision process of farming out tasks and how it has helped him focus on the parts of the hobby he enjoys.

Learn more about this episode and check out images of the Gateway Western Subdivision 6:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/episodes/34

On this episode of Around The Layout, we meet Alex Mantle and learn about his model railroading journey. From California to Alaska to London and eventually on to Wyoming, Alex tells us how an attic find boosted his model railroading journey, his "practice layouts" and how he's gone big with his freelanced Chicago, Denver and Northern, sharing how he developed his backstory, paint scheme and chose the industries on his layout. 

Check out the Chicago, Denver & Northern on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@chicagodenvernorthern999

Follow Alex and the CD&N on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/chicago_denver_northern/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on social media: aroundthelayout.com/social


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released August 16, 2022

Dave Oppedisano joins us to talk about his BNSF Lakeside Subdivision layout. Ray and Dave met at the New England/Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet in Springfield MA, and they discuss this event and Dave's presentation during NERPM. Dave tells us about the Lakeside Sub area and the parts he's incorporating into his layout. He also shares advice about choosing backdrop materials and shares his passion for all things electronics.

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
aroundthelayout.com/crew


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Connect with us on social media: aroundthelayout.com/social


Send us an email: [email protected]

Thank you to our show sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

Professional Model Railroad builder and author Lance Mindheim returns to Around The Layout Podcast with a new book under his arm. Lance tells us his why behind his new series "Shortlines You Can Build" and introduces us to Volume 1 - Miami's Swamp Rat. Lance and I discuss several of the points made in the book and how you can apply them to nearly any railroad you're planning. Later, Lance tells about yet another how-to book coming out that you can pre-order now.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/


Learn more about today's episode:
aroundthelayout.com/episodes/101

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
aroundthelayout.com/crew

Follow us on social media:
aroundthelayout.com/social


Send us an email: [email protected]

45 shows a year - that's an amazing amount of traveling for the folks at Spring Creek Model Trains, who found some time in their busy schedules to join Tony Cook and I on this month's What's Happening In Model Railroading episode. Brothers Mike and Jeff Zucker share what it's like to move the big show around and how, over the last 24 years, have grown their business in a town of less than 800 people into a destination hobby shop. Later, Tony brings us the latest from Rapido, Walthers, Sylvan, Athearn and more.

Check out Spring Creek Model Trains website:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/

Links to all products mentioned on this episode can be found at: aroundthelayout.com/episodes/100

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released October 25, 2022

On this episode, we head back to the Lone Star State and talk to Greg McComas, owner of the Michigan Interstate St. Clair Subdivision and MAC Rail Products. Greg fills us in on how the idea for his freelance railroad developed, then shares how he's implemented his vision on his double deck layout. We also learn how MAC Rail was born out of a necessity to create niche parts and has grown to supplying those hard to find modern details.

Like and follow the Michigan Interstate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069293202704

Check out MAC Rail's offerings here: https://macrailproducts.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

There's no doubt that Don Irace, famous for his Providence & Worcester layouts, is passionate about operations and, on this episode, we focused on just that. Don tells us about the top 2 things that should be prioritized for good operating sessions and shares some helpful advice on the steps one should take to ensure their railroad will be reliable. He also tells us about setting up remote operations, a practice that has allowed him to participate in sessions from afar and allows others to dispatch his layout from outside the Sunshine State. Later in the show, we make an announcement about a new monthly show featuring Don Irace.

See more of Don’s Providence & Worcester layout on his YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@ThePWMRR

Follow the PWMRR on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceWorcesterModelRailroad

For more info on Don’s layout, check out his website:
https://pwrr2.weebly.com/

During our discussion on remote operations, Don mentions a USB sound card adapter. You can purchase one here:
https://a.co/d/fkByh48

Thank you to our show sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released December 6, 2022

It’s Santa Fe All The Way on this episode of Around The Layout as we talk to Oklahoma’s own Sammy Carlile about his Santa Fe Hereford Subdivision HO scale layout. We learn how train trips as a kid fostered Sammy’s love for trains and especially the Santa Fe. We also hear about his passion for railroad photography; the challenges of pre-digital photography that we may have forgotten about and how these captures became a great resource for modeling. Additionally, we learn how his son Samuel has taken on both hobbies, with the layout and cameras now shared between father and son.

Check out Samuel Carlile’s YouTube channel, which includes video of the layout and more.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtRRycbVo9T_sKjydNVCIYg

Also visit Steve Davis’ YouTube channel for great operations videos on the Hereford Sub.
https://www.youtube.com/user/TTownTrainFan

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Dave Owens, a man of many talents and many hats stops by to tell us about the 22nd Annual New England / Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet. Dave gives us a background on the show's history, from humble beginnings to a new location this year, right in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts. From vendors to models on display and a long list of informative clinics, the NERPM is an event all modelers can be inspired by. 

For more information and to register for the NERPM, visit their website:
www.NERPM.org

Find more on this episode at aroundthelayout.com/episodes/99

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released July 11, 2023

We head back to Central New York to hear Bill Brown's amazing story of triumph over tragedy and how a great group of friends helped him recover from disaster. Bill shares his origin story, then tells how becoming a member of the CNY Division of the NMRA provided him with incredible opportunities to further his modeling skills and led to meeting the folks that would become lifelong friends. Bill also reflects on memories of Jim Heidt, the first leader of the CNY Division and a dear friend to many, who passed away on June 12th. Closing out the show, Bill tells us about his involvement in Ops 'Til You Drop, a CNY Division event that's become a weekend not to miss.

Check out Bill Brown's LARC Products: https://larcproducts.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Send us an email: [email protected]

If you're looking for proof that it's never too late to get started in model railroading, look no further than Marty Jenkins. Contrary to the stories we typically hear, Marty got his start in the hobby in his 40's and has seemingly made up for lost time, diving head first down the rabbit holes of the ever expanding technology. Marty shares with us how model railroading has led him to several trips to the United States and talks about his involvement in development of NMRAx.

Check out Marty's Train Shed on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@martyn1107

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released July 4, 2023

On this episode of Around The Layout, we head to Central New York State to chat with Drew James. Drew is the owner of the Canada, Spokane and Pacific HO scale model railroad; an outstanding railroad for its amazing scenery and outstanding operations. Drew tells us the events leading up to this current layout and how the NMRA Central New York division is chock full of talented members willing to help each other create awesome layouts.

Check out this CNY Division produced video of Drew's incredible layout:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QOvXbgCH_Q

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

They say "It's all in the details" and that's what Kevin Norman from Notch 8 Customs is all about. Kevin stops by to tell us how he developed an interest in DCC installs and customizing locomotives and rolling stock into a growing part-time side hustle. Additionally, he shares his dream for a layout that captures the rich history of railroading in the Chicagoland area in the 1960's.

Check out Kevin's work and schedule your next project with Notch 8 Customs on their website:
https://www.facebook.com/notch8customs


Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released December 5, 2023

What does it take to start a model railroad company and lead it to the position of the "Cadillac" of the industry? On this episode, we get to hear from ScaleTrains president Shane Wilson as he tells us about his model railroading journey that led to entrepreneurship at a young age and set the trajectory to a career in the hobby business. Learn the reasons why Shane and his team took the risk to create a new, innovative approach, taking lessons from his past and combining it with their passion for creating an exceptional customer experience. Shane then previews some up and coming projects at ScaleTrains and explains their recent acquisition of Virtual Railfan.

Check out all of the great product offerings from ScaleTrains:
https://www.scaletrains.com/

Watch the ScaleTrains, Big Dreams documentary on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/41Ge5rr7p4M?si=t9F8I98Sf0Xouvgd

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

Stephen Priest is our guest on this month's What's Happening In Model Railroading and we get to hear about Class One Model Works and the process behind creating the highly detailed and prototype accurate models they produce. Stephen gives us some insight into the selection process for these projects and hints at some upcoming announcements. Later, Tony and Ray talk about news from Rapido, Walthers, Smokebox Graphics and more.

Check out all the offerings from Class One Model Works on their website:
https://classonemodelworks.com/

Be sure to check out Ray's interview on TSG Multimedia's Live Talking Trains:
https://www.youtube.com/live/NXezMjU0p18?si=0cUDFy4oPEzFgxIG

If you're in the Northeast US, catch the ScaleTrains Road Trip event near you!
https://www.scaletrains.com/roadtrip

Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released October 11, 2022

There are some folks who aren’t afraid to take on a challenge, and Scott Thornton is one of them. Join us as Scott tells how he’s not only building his first layout, but also writing about it in an ongoing series in the hobby’s leading publication, Railroad Model Craftsman. Scott also shares his passion for enhancing operations with takeaways from the fantasy board gamer world and how he’s developing a theatre aspect to his layout. From his involvement with Iowa Scaled Engineering and his own Scotty’s Model Shop, this is one interesting guy with a lot to share.

Check out more on the Milan Branch here: http://milanbranch.com/

Take your operations to the next level with a ProtoThrottle and check out the other creations from Iowa Scaled Engineering. https://www.iascaled.com/store/

Subscribe to Railroad Model Craftsman to catch Scott’s ongoing "Branch Line on a Shelf” series. https://rrmodelcraftsman.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

We're off to Scotland to get to know Alan Aitken, the owner of the Buffalo & Pittsburgh Scottish Division Model Railroad and the creater of the YouTube channel of the same name with an amazing amount of subscribers. We learn how Alan gets his start in the hobby and why he left the British prototype for an American railroad with a quick detour though the Alps. Alan also shares his experiences with modular clubs and gives advice on how to better engage with show attendees.

Check out the Buffalo & Pittsburgh Model Railroad on YouTube:
youtube.com/@BPSDMRR

Follow the Buffalo & Pittsburgh Model Railroad on Facebook:
facebook.com/BuffaloPittsburghMRR

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ALTP Rewind - Originally Released December 20, 2022

On this episode, we head down to Decatur, Texas and head above the garage to check out Dean Ferris’ Oregon Joint Line in N scale. Dean tells us how railfanning as a youth and as a college student played a major role in his decision to model the Pacific Northwest. He also discusses how his current layout has changed and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Additionally, Dean shares how he’s met Chris Atkins, Greg McComas, Chris Palmieri and many others that have become regulars at his operating sessions.

Subscribe to the Oregon Joint Line Model Railroad YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@oregonjointlinemodelrailro4125

Visit the Oregon Joint Line group on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1361988240533232

Check out Dean’s article in the October 2021 Railroad Model Craftsman
https://shop.whiteriverproductions.com/products/rmc-202110

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

On this episode of Around The Layout, we meet Bruce Ryan, who grew up in New York City and now finds himself in the Finger Lakes region of New York recreating railroading in the West Side of Manhattan where he grew up in the 1960's. Bruce shares how early influences led him to model Albany before a trip to Baltimore resparked an interest in the marine and railroad history of the Big Apple. 

Check out more on Bruce Ryan's Manhattan Terminal Railroad on his YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@manhattanterminalrailroadh9776

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released April 1, 2023

Welcome to another dimmension, where Joe Mammay is the host of Around The Layout and is interviewing Ray Arnott. Come along as we hear about Ray's start in model railroading, from a TYCO set to an attempt at N scale. Ray tells us how the prototype led him back to the hobby, and how joining a club introduced him to his mentor who helped open his eyes to the concept of operations.

Thank you to Joe Mammay who did an outstanding job hosting this April Fools edition of Around The Layout. We hope you enjoy!

Check out Ray's P&W & NECR Interchange Model Railroad on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PWNECRMR

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

On this episode of Around The Layout, we head down under and to the other side of the International Date Line to talk to Darren Lee in Queensland, Australia. Darren tells us about his start in the hobby and how he went from modeling North American railroads to one a lot closer to home thanks to some incredible access to the prototype. Additionally, Darren tells us about the Wattle Flat proto-freelance railroad he's created and how he's using his layout to introduce his model railroad "mates" to the wonderful world of operations. 

See more on the Wattle Flat on Darren's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@darrenlee737

Check out Darren's Blog on the Wattle Flat:
https://nimmitabelextension.blogspot.com/

Thank you to our show sponsor, Highball Graphics:
https://highballgraphics.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released November 22, 2022

What do you get when you combine an art teacher with a love of model railroading? You get Tom Johnson and a spectacular layout filled with super detailed scenes that tell the story of the late 70's in northern Indiana. Listen as Tom tells about growing up around the prototype and how it has influenced him to create a freelance story of his own on a layout perfectly sized for simple, yet realistic operations. Tom also shares the backstory of his recent article in the October 2022 Railroad Model Craftsman and how taking the photographs was a family affair.

Read more about Tom Johnson's Cass County HO Scale Layout in Railroad Model Craftsman: https://rrmodelcraftsman.com/

Join the Facebook HO Scale Shelf Modelers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/484711889437745

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Send us an email: [email protected]

It's been way too long since we've heard Christopher Palmieri on Around The Layout, and with all the projects he's been working on at Home Shops, it was high time we got him on What's Happening In Model Railroading to get us up to speed. Tony Cook and Ray Arnott learn about his project selection process, what goes into creating a great freelance model railroad logo, and how Home Shops is expanding beyond freight cars with a locomotive project honoring a legendary freelance railroad that's inspired so many. Later, Tony brings us the latest news from Rapido, Jacksonville Terminal Company, Walthers, South Platte Press, Funaro & Camerlengo and Broadway Limted, and Ray finally brings something to the table with news from AA Hobbies in Warwick, Rhode Island.

Check out all the great offerings from Home Shops:
https://homeshops.net/

Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/


Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released September 27, 2022

In this episode of Around The Layout, we go deep into the vivid imagination of Chris Palmieri and learn about the alternate railroading reality he has created in the freelance world of "The Meridian Speedway." Chris talks about the how he, from an early age, has been developing his own model railroad story based on his deep and growing knowledge of prototype operations. You'll learn how this has led to the creation of Home Shops, LLC and how his new venture helps spread not only his story but those of fellow freelance modelers across the planet.

Check out The Meridian Speedway website: https://www.meridianspeedway.net/

Shop Home Shops LLC for freelance model railroad cars: https://homeshops.net/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Keeping a long family tradition of railroading, Allen Whitaker comes by to tell us about how, from a young age, he was exposed to the prototype, particularly the Southern Railway which inspired his freelance Tennessee Southern Railway. Allen shares how his career as a railroader has affected operations on his layout, and how knowing too much can be a challenge as a model railroader. Later, Allen shares his experience with having the Tennessee Southern included in a Home Shops run that features some of his model railroading idols.

Check out more on the Tennessee Southern Railway on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/149336988442313

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!

aroundthelayout.com/atlpoc

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 3, 2023


We’re off to the Sunshine State for a visit to Sebastian, the town that might become the capital of model railroading in Florida, and meet up with John Farrington. We learn how his grandfather helped light his youthful passion for model trains and how he rediscovered the hobby through content on YouTube. John talks about creating his own YouTube channel and by doing so, is paying forward the knowledge he’s obtained. Additionally, we learn how John met fellow resident Don Irace and the role he’s played in designing and building John’s Somerset Industrial layout. And be sure to listen carefully for a special guest appearance from Merlin The Cat.

See more on John’s layout and get great modeling tips on his YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@RailserveJohn

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Around The Layout is where model railroaders and, in this case, podcasters come to tell their story. A pioneer of model railroad podcasts, Tom Barbalet, comes by to tell us about how Model Rail Radio was started. Tom talks about how the live radio call-in format for his long-running podcast was developed and how he has built an amazing community of friends from around the world.

Check out Model Rail Radio:
https://www.modelrailradio.com/

Join the Model Rail Radio Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/367613092344

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 17, 2023

We give Streamyard the night off as Mark Herrick does an in-person visit to the Around The Layout studio and tells us about his model railroading journey that has led to the BNSF Montana Division. Listen as Mark tells us about how trips to Montana in his teenage years formed his love of the Burlington Northern and how a trip to “The Mall” sparked his interest in model railroading. Mark also shares how membership in the NMRA led him to a network of great model railroaders and even greater friends.

Check out the BNSF Montana Division Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080157977768

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

In our past interviews, we've found that freelance model railroaders have amazing stories to tell and Tim Garland is no exception. On this episode, Tim tells us how he got started in the hobby and how at 14 years old, his mind was made up about becoming a railroader. Tim shares how the story of the Seaboard Central was developed, how it's a form of protest against changes he's observed in the railroad industry, and how the second version of the layout is being built differently from the first and in a way that keeps the flywheel turning without being overwhelming.

Check out more on the Seaboard Central on Tim's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@SeaboardCentral

Follow updates on the Seaboard Central on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SCModelRailroad/

We mention our love for Home Shops, LLC. Check them out here:
https://homeshops.net/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

After getting to meet the NMRA Social Media guru Lucy Dormont in person at the Amherst Railway Society's Railroad Hobby Show, I wanted to hear about her first trip to Springfield and her event filled weekend. Lucy shares the details on the events she participated in, including the NMRA Board of Directors meeting and the Women In Model Railroading meet and greet and operating session. I also find out what purchases made Lucy's suitcase and give her some (probably bad) advice on how to get more stuff home with her next year.

Check out all of the exciting changes with the NMRA, starting with their website:
https://www.nmra.org/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 31, 2023

He’s been talked about a lot on Around The Layout, but now it’s time to hear from Don Irace himself. Don’s original Providence & Worcester layout in Scituate, Rhode Island was known by many as the layout to see in southern New England, and he gives us the backstory on it’s creation. He shares how he developed operations on this layout, and how lessons from Scituate guided the second version after his move to Sebastian, Florida. Don has inspired many to create their own layouts, and he talks about the role of mentor and how the hobby has created a group of great friends, both in New England and Florida.

Like the Providence & Worcester Model Railroad Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceWorcesterModelRailroad

Check out the PWMRR YouTube channel for videos of both layouts.
https://www.youtube.com/@ThePWMRR

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

It's just me, asking you to take a few minutes to take the ATLP 2024 Listener Survey.

aroundthelayout.com/survey

Your honest feedback is appreciated!

Just a few weeks removed from the Amherst Railway Society's Railroad Hobby Show, Broadway Limited's Curtis Koch stops by to tell us about the exciting announcements and releases from BLI, including the new Conductors Club, GP35's, die-cast diesels and a device you can use not only in the layout room, but throughout your home and garage too. Later, Tony brings us the industry news from ScaleTrains, Atlas, Walthers, Rapido, Kato, Home Shops LLC and more.

Learn more about Broadway Limited and sign up for the Conductors Club:
https://broadway-limited.com/

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Subscribe to the Model Train Resource YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@ModelTrainResource

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally released April 25, 2023


Seven days a week, Weather My Trains' Rob Arsenault is producing some of the most realistic and jaw-dropping weathering in the hobby. In this episode of Around The Layout, Rob puts down the brush and tells how a childhood spent on Prince Edward Island and railfanning the PEI sparked his lifelong love for trains. He shares how time spent in the Royal Canadian Air Force provided rare opportunities to witness railroading history and get closer to the action than most. You'll also get an in-depth lesson in paints as Rob guides us to making better product selections; the same ones he's made that produce high quality results.

Learn more about the services offered by Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Stay up to date with Rob's work on his Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/WeatherMyTrains

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

How did a Brit decide to model an American railroad? Blame it on Budweiser! That's one of the things we learn on this episode of Around The Layout as we chat with Steve McEwen about his model railroading journey and how his trips to the United States influenced his choice to model the New York & Atlantic Railway in a freelance way that addresses his wants in an operating layout. We also learn the why behind Steve's YouTube channel, The British Railroader.

Check out The British Railroader on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@thebritishrailroader

Follow all of Steve's railroading adventures on his Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/the.british.railroader

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

ATLP Rewind - Originally aired February 14, 2023

There are no shortage of topics when Thomas Klimoski comes to the Around The Layout studio. A retired firefighter, author, trainman and accomplished model railroader, Tom tells us about his beginnings in the hobby and how a letter written to a well-known model railroader changed his tragectory in model railroading and led to amazing opportunities and great friendships.Tom discusses how his personal experiences influenced his book "Building The Right Sized Layout" and how you can ensure you're building the right layout for you.

Check out Tom's website, full of excellent resources at https://www.thomasklimoski.com/

Thanks to our episode sponsor, Highball Graphics. Check out their website at https://highballgraphics.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

Want proof that the hobby isn't dying and young folks are into model railroading? Allow us to present, once again, Issac Fabris and his CN/IC Heyworth Spur. It's been quite a while, so we were overdue for an update and Isaac brings us up to speed on the changes he's made on his layout and how changing his era has allowed him to narrow his focus, keep what he loves, but set up guardrails that keeps him from buying all of the latest locomotive releases. Isaac's biggest news is that he's an expectant father, and after hearing bad parenting advice from Ray, he shares how his growing family will eventually yield a bigger home and a bigger layout and the plan he already has to expand upon his current layout.

Check out the CN/IC Heyworth Spur on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/607099757235527

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Neil Schofield and his CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision has been our guest wish list since the start of the podcast, so when Neil reached out to be on the podcast, there was quite the celebration! Before telling us about his amazing layout, Neil tells us about his start in model railroading and forcing the transition era on his dad's steam era layout and how road trips to the northernmost parts of New England planted the seed for his Vermont based layout.

See the layout for yourself on Neil's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@NRS8400

Check out the MRH Forum blog on CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision:
https://forum.mrhmag.com/post/cp-rails-newport-lyndonville-subdivision-12218893

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

West Springfield, Springfield, The Big E Show, Amherst - call it what you'd like, just make sure you get there! The Amherst Railway Society's Railroad Hobby Show has become the bucket list event for model railroaders around the globe and leading this destination event is the highly dedicated and super enthusiastic Show Director John Sacerdote. John gives us a brief history of the show, then tells us what we can expect to see within the four buildings and 350,000 square feet of all things railroading.

Don't miss the Railroad Hobby Show - January 27-28, 2024!
https://www.railroadhobbyshow.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

Shane Wilson, President of ScaleTrains, returns to Around The Layout Podcast to talk about the latest somewhat controversial announcement of the new Hypotypical line. Shane clears up some concerns and shares with us the benefits of adding a new line and how it positively impacts their ability to produce additional offerings. Later, Tony and I discuss more news pouring in from Broadway Limited, Bachmann, Lionel, Marklin and more.

Check out all of the offerings from ScaleTrains on their website:
https://www.scaletrains.com/

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/


Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/


Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

On this episode of Around The Layout, we check in with Paul Cassar. Paul's not only the Executive Producer of Around The Layout; he's quite the modeler and he provides us with updates on his River Belt Line HO scale layout located in his garage in New South Wales, Australia. Paul talks about scratchbuilding, weathering, and super detailing the layout and how his choice to keep the layout relatively small has provided the time to drill into the details. Additionally, Ray and Paul talk about working together on the podcast and how it has become another aspect of the hobby to enjoy.

Check out Paul's River Belt Line on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063610810340

Join the HO Scale Shelf Modelers Group on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/484711889437745

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally aired May 30, 2023

On this episode of Around The Layout, we head back to Texas to chat with yet another freelance model railroader, Joe Bohannon. Joe shares his start in the hobby and the many influences, from California to Washington State to Texas that led to him creating the Chinook Lines. He also tells us about his involvement in historical societies and how the knowledge he gained there provided content for his freelace story.

Check out the Chinook Lines Model Railroad Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/517011158314309

Learn more about the Cascade Rail Foundation:
https://www.milwelectric.org/

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

After hosting myself and fellow podcasters Andy Dorsch and Tom Gasior on his TSG Live Talking Trains, it was great to have John Abatecola stop by the Around The Layout studio. John tells us about his hobby within the hobby; creating videos to share his model railroading and prototype adventures with the masses. He talks about his work with Jack Burgess and how filming trains is so much better than a funeral!

Check out TSG Multimedia's YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@tsgmultimedia

You can join TSG Multimedia on these social media channels:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tsgmultimediaface
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsg_multimedia/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/TSGMultimedia

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally aired September 19, 2023

There's something really cool when you find out that someone you watched on television and in movies is a fellow model railroader. On this podcast, we get to learn more about Michael Gross, the man who, among many acting accomplishments, portrayed TV dad Steven Keaton on Family Ties for seven seasons. It becomes clear early on that he's no actor when it comes to being a model railroader; he's the real deal with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for all things railroading. Michael also tells us about his family roots in railroading, and how his grandfather's career in railroading inspired him to become a modeler and a railroader himself.

Michael's appearance in Rapido's "The Drop" is not to be missed! Check it out here:
https://youtu.be/m_bNmLVjZ54?si=MqBkwuaeQpdExYnF

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

Author and professional model railroad builder Lance Mindheim returns to Around The Layout with a couple of new books tucked under his arm. Since the last time he appeared, he's released two new "how and why" books, 8 Track Plans For Modern Era Switching Layouts and Scenery For Modern Switching Layouts. Lance shares with us the motivation for writing and takes an opportunity to tell us more about his former East Rail layout, The Downtown Spur, and how he is recreating the East Rail layout with the appropriately named East Rail 2, using improved techniques learned in 50 years of model railroading.

Check out more on Lance Mindheim, including his blog on his website:
https://lancemindheim.com/

Pick up a copy of Lance's recent books and see his entire library:
https://lancemindheim.com/book-store/

Watch Tolga Erbora switch The Downtown Spur:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYEGQhkk6gs

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/


Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

ATLP Rewind - Originally aired April 11, 2023

Why. It's the question every model railroader should know the answer to, and Lance Mindheim has prided himself in helping model railroaders find their own why. In this episode, we find out how Lance found his own "why" as he shares his own model railroading journey. He also shares how studying the arts has made him a better modeler and how you too can begin to see your layout from a whole new angle. The author of a multitude of how-to books and his own blog, Lance tells us about writing and sharing the lessons he's learned.

Check out Lance Mindheim's website:
https://www.shelflayouts.com/

Follow Lance on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/lance.mindheim

Watch videos from Lance on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/LanceMindheim

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout

Send us an email: [email protected]

With only a few days left before Christmas, Tony Cook and I thought it would be a good idea to check in with Ken Bianco Jr at Trainworld and Trainland. Ken tells us about the items flying off the shelves this holiday season and shares the joy he gets from introducing new folks to the hobby. Later, Tony tells us about new releases from Bachmann, Kadee, Tangent, Rapido and many more.

Get your last minute Christmas shopping done today:
https://www.trainworld.com/

Subscribe to Model Railorad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/


Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/


Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

Meet Campbell Rice, a man who has moved more times than the Raiders football team, but has carried his passion for model railroading with him along the way. Campbell takes us along on the journey through several states and multiple layout builds, leading to his recent move back to Tennessee and the development of the freelanced Tennessee Western Railway HO scale layout. It's a story of perseverance that you don't want to miss.

Learn more about the Tennessee Western Railway on their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063930588640

Check out Campbell's Railroad Modeling on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@campbellsrailroadmodeling5847

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

What does it take to start a model railroad company and lead it to the position of the "Cadillac" of the industry? On this episode, we get to hear from ScaleTrains president Shane Wilson as he tells us about his model railroading journey that led to entrepreneurship at a young age and set the trajectory to a career in the hobby business. Learn the reasons why Shane and his team took the risk to create a new, innovative approach, taking lessons from his past and combining it with their passion for creating an exceptional customer experience. Shane then previews some up and coming projects at ScaleTrains and explains their recent acquisition of Virtual Railfan.

Check out all of the great product offerings from ScaleTrains:
https://www.scaletrains.com/

Watch the ScaleTrains, Big Dreams documentary on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/41Ge5rr7p4M?si=t9F8I98Sf0Xouvgd

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]


Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

It's late November, but we're still talking about late August and the 2023 NMRA National Convention in Texas. During that week, I was fortunate enough to visit the outstanding layout of Mike Armstrong and it was a thrill to talk to him tonight about how his Rock Island Mid-Continent Route came to fruition. Mike shares the story of growing up in Iowa and the many influences during his youth that led to a successful prototype and model railroad journey. If you're a fan of big layouts and negative space, this episode is for you!

Check out the Rock Island Mid-Continent Route on YouTube!
https://www.youtube.com/@rimodeler7963

Find more about this outstanding layout in the June 2023 Railroad Model Craftsman:
https://rrmodelcraftsman.com/rock-island-mid-continent-route/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

The growth of technology in model railroading has brought a whole new level to the hobby. On this episode, Tony Cook brings along Chuck Stancil of Logic Rail Technologies to tell us about the amazing products he has created that bring life to layouts. Chuck tells us how his products can help add theatrics to your layout and reveals a new product that will provide amazing lighting effects in a number of ways. Later, Tony tells us about the latest releases from Rapido, Intermountain, Walthers, Sylvan, and many more, then we debut the new "Ask Tony" segment with questions about Tony's top 3 locomotives and C30-7A locomotives.

Bring your layout to life with Logic Rail Technologies products!
https://www.logicrailtech.com/

Subscribe to Model Railorad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/


Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Ask Tony your question for next month's What's Happening In Model Railroading Show:
https://www.aroundthelayout.com/asktony

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]

On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, I appeared as a guest on TSG Multimedia's Talking Trains with hosts John Abatecola and Tony Cook. The topic was model railroad podcasts and I was joined by good friends Andy Dorsch from Second Section Podcast and Thomas Gasior of the Twin Cities Division Crossing Gate Podcast. I had such a blast talking about Around The Layout and how all of our podcasts compliment each other, and John has given me permission to share the audio from the show with the ATLP audience. Please see the original show notes from TSG Multimedia below, and a special thanks to John Abatecola for hosting this show and allowing us to share here on our channel.

******

We had a special Talking Trains episode this past week all about podcasting and how we can support each other in the podcasting space. It was such a great discussion, I wanted to share the audio from it here as well. It will make for great listening in the car or wherever you listen to your podcasts!

In this episode of Talking Trains, John will be joined by a special guest co-host as well as some other podcasters for a talk about railroad-related podcasts and ways we can support each other.

Tony Cook's Model Train Resource (MTR) home page: https://modeltrainresource.com/
Use the promo code "TSG10" to get 40% off the newsstand price at: https://shop.whiteriverproductions.com/

*Note: the prices on White River's site are already discounted, so 40% off won't be on the already discounted price, but on the price that's printed on the cover of the publication(s) being ordered.

Around The Layout Podcast: https://www.aroundthelayout.com/podcasts
Second Section Podcast: https://secondsectionpodcast.com/
The Crossing Gate Podcast: https://tcdnmra.org/podcast/

Of course we will also be talking about other topics. We always do!
Here are some of the ways you can support the content you love:
https://www.patreon.com/TSGMultimedia
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/tsgmultimedia
https://www.tsgmultimedia.com/shop
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Please share: If you enjoy this content, please hit the "like" button and share it with your friends on social media!

You can join TSG Multimedia on these other social media channels:
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©2023 TSG Multimedia. All Rights Reserved.

One of the most memorable stops during the whirlwind week of the Texas Express 2023 NMRA National Convention was the visit to Devin Jackson & Family's Mesquite Belt, located about 2 hours south of Fort Worth in the town of Palestine. Joining me on the trip were Don Irace and Mark Herrick and on arrival, we were amazed to see a depot building in the backyard containing a large and well done HO scale layout. On this episode, we talk about that visit and how the depot building, name and layout came to be. We also learn how this project has been a family affair and how all Jacksons have benefited from the hobby.

Check out the Mesquite Belt on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/79388438443

Learn more about the Mesquite Belt Railroad on their website:
https://www.mesquitebelt.com/

Pre-order your Home Shops Mesquite Belt Tangent PS-4427 Covered Hopper today!
https://homeshops.net/pages/home-shops-pre-order-page

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]


Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

On this special episode of Around The Layout, we talk to Art Dutra and Mike Wheeler of the Nutmeg Division of the NMRA and learn what's new and exciting from the division covering Connecticut and portions of Massachusetts. We often hear about the big changes happening at the national level; now hear how those changes are making positive impacts locally, and how Art, Mike and the rest of the Nutmeg Division leadership are putting in the work to attract new members and add to the value proposition of being a member of the NMRA.

Check out the Nutmeg Division's Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/nutmegnmra

Follow the Nutmeg Division on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/nutmegnmra/

Subscribe to the Nutmeg Division on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@nutmegdivisionnmra8046

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayout


Send us an email: [email protected]


Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

We first met Matt Stern on the May 2023 What's Happening In Model Railroading episode where he represented Bachmann as their Communications Manager. During the recording of that show, we spotted a layout behind him, and we knew we had to get Matt back to tell his model railroading story. Well, that time has come, and Matt has an incredible story to share. He tells us about living in the United Kingdom at a young age, an influential uncle back in the United States, and how his passion for model railroading and an ability to chart his own course led to his profession within the hobby. We also learn that his current layout, used to stage some of the Bachmann promotional photos, doesn't have a name, hence the title of this episode!

Check out the work of Matt and his colleagues at Bachmann Trains:
https://www.bachmanntrains.com


Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Freelance model railroader and YouTuber Matt Forcum pays a virtual visit to the Around The Layout studio. Matt shares with us his model railroading journey that has includes stops in Lego and N scale on his way to HO scale and the Metaline Falls Railroad. He also tells us how he's using his MFRailroad YouTube channel to create a video journal of his layout build and share what he's learning along the way. In addition, his channel includes product reviews and his Rail Ramblin' segments, and Ray and Matt discuss the difficulties of sharing these thoughts in what can be a very opininated hobby. Closing out the show, Matt shares a tool he has created to help build switch lists for smaller railroads.

Check out MFRailroad on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/MFRailroad

Read Matt's blog on his website:
http://www.mfrailroad.com

Download OpsBuddy here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y8jbRy0lxMmmrtj_qnKQb1stEQMqq_BGPU02VjTeQmQ/edit?usp=sharing

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/


Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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Send us an email: [email protected]

Coming to us from northern Colorado - seemingly a hotbed of model railroading, is the creator of the BNSF Fall River Division, John Parker. John shares his model railroading story with us, from humble 4x8 beginnings to the beautiful empire he has today. We learn that he's had a lot of help along the way, and he shares how that dedicated group of friends helped him achieve the goal of a railroad empire in his basement that hosts 18 to 22 operators per session.

Learn more about John's BNSF Fall River Division on the web:
https://www.bnsfrr.net/

Follow the BNSF Fall River Division on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Fallriverdiv/

Watch TSG Multimedia's Layout Tour Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJg4PJRa3DQ

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

On this edition of What's Happening In Model Railroading, we step into the 1:220 world as Ztrack Magazine's Rob Kluz tells us all about Z scale. Rob shares how military modeling started his near 40 year journey in the hobby as a publisher and distributor, and how, in that time, Z scale has made amazing advancements in detail, capabilities, and availability. Ray and Tony also talk about exciting announcements from Tangent, Athearn, Bluford Shops, Rivarossi, Rapido, Viessmann, and Ray's recent purchase from HomeShops LLC.

Check out Ztrack Magazine for more on the exciting world of Z scale railroading:
https://www.ztrack.com/


Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/


Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/


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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Dave Owens from the Amherst Railway Society joined me to record a special on the upcoming Vernon Train Show happening on October 29, 2023 in Vernon, CT. It's good to see a smaller format train show back on the schedule as we kick off model railroad season, and putting the guy who's made the Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet a 20 year success in charge leaves no doubt that this event will be a good one.

For more information on the Model Train Show in Vernon:
https://amherstrail.org/vernon/

Exhibitors and vendors wanted! Email [email protected].

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!

patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Anyone who has listened long enough to the show knows my affinity for cottage industry, so it was a thrill to talk to Ron Klaiss about his model railroading journey that led to the launch of Mine Mount Models. Ron talks about his early days of model railroading, then talks about how his business was born from a love of structures and a desire to recreate. Later, Ron and I discuss a common side effect of hobbies within the hobby and how the layout can suffer for them.

Check out Mine Mount Models and their fine craftsman kit offerings:
https://minemountmodels.com/

Follow Mine Mount Models on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/minemountmodels

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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Comedy and model railroading - the two definitely can go together, especially when you start talking to the very funny William Sampson! William makes his return to ATLP to tell his model railroading story, recapping the Father's Day episode he did with his dad and continuing his story. Willam shares how laughs with his dad while running trains set the tone for his outlook on the hobby and how he's carried that over to his ever popular SOO The Milwaukee Road YouTube channel. He also provides us with two "Around The Layout exclusives" on his future plans both in print and for the YouTube channel.

Check out William's SOO The Milwaukee Road YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@SootheMilwaukeeRoad

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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

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One of the big announcements following the NMRA National Convention in Texas was the hiring of Lucy Dormont as the new Social Media Director for the National Model Railroad Association. With this breaking news, it was time for a special What's Happening In Model Railroading episode with Tony Cook, Editor of Model Railroad News, to get to know Lucy and find out what she has planned to help grow the NMRA. What we quickly learned is that the national organization has found itself a go-getter who isn't afraid to stick their neck out, ask the questions, and put in the work to achieve goals.

Find out more about the benefits of being a member of the NMRA:
https://www.nmra.org/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Subscribe to Model Railorad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

As the author of Show Me Katy, Mike Landis has taken his childhood experience with the MKT Sedalia Subdivision and turned it into a passion that has led not only to writing the book Show Me Katy, but also an HO scale layout paying tribute to the railroad in the 1980's. Mike tells us about choosing the portion of the line that he relates to most and how video creation for his YouTube channel The Main Track provides motivation to continue learning and sharing his journey with others.

Check out The Main Track YouTube channel!
https://www.youtube.com/@MainTrack

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There's something really cool when you find out that someone you watched on television and in movies is a fellow model railroader. Tonight I had the privilege to learn more about Michael Gross, the man who, among many acting accomplishments, portrayed TV dad Steven Keaton on Family Ties for seven seasons. It becomes clear early on that he's no actor when it comes to being a model railroader; he's the real deal with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for all things railroading. Michael also tells us about his family roots in railroading, and how his grandfather's career in railroading inspired him to become a modeler and a railroader himself.

Michael's appearance in Rapido's "The Drop" is not to be missed! Check it out here:
https://youtu.be/m_bNmLVjZ54?si=MqBkwuaeQpdExYnF

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Another month has passed and it's time to find out What's Happening in Model Railroading with the Editor of Model Railroad News, Tony Cook. Tony brings along Jason Hill of Owl Mountain Models and we learn how his business of producing lumber loads and much more began. Later, a bit of role reversal as Ray tells Tony about his experience at the NMRA National Convention and the National Train Show.

Check out all of what Owl Mountain Models has to offer on their website:
https://www.owlmtmodels.com/

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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Send us an email: [email protected]

It's never too late to build your dream layout. Alan Saatkamp is a testament to this, as he, at age 70, is building the railroad he's always wanted, taking the experience of multiple layout builds and moves around the country to his new home in Normal, Illinois. Alan shares those experiences, from childhood to today, and tells us how his wife encouraged his return to model railroading for a family experience. He also offers his guidance on the right time to ask your spouse for more layout real estate (results may vary!). Alan also talks about his other hobby; creating a newsletter called Prairie Ponderings, a fun and informative digital publication that he shares with subscribers around the globe.

Have Prairie Ponderings delivered to your email box. Email Alan at [email protected]

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With just under 500 videos published and over 45,000 subscribers on YouTube, DIY and Digital Railroad has become one of the leading sources of information for model railroaders on the internet. When Jimmy DIY reached out, it was a no-brainer to get him on the show and learn more about how he started in the hobby and how it led to the creation of his YouTube channel. Jimmy tells how he was led to modeling in N and the improvements he's seen that has made 1:160 a better scale to model. He also shares his influences and how they inspired him to give back with videos catered to those just getting their start in the hobby.

Check out the DIY and Digital Railroad YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@DIYDigitalRailroad

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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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On this episode of Around The Layout, we get to know Paul August, owner of the C&NW Mondovi Line and the YouTube channel that covers it. Paul tells us about his family's roots in railroading and how that led to multiple generations of model railroaders including a father with a passion for brass steam locomotives. He also shares with us how moves in the midwest exposed him to different prototypes and how he landed on the Mondovi Line.

Check out Paul's YouTube Channel, covering the Mondovi Line:
https://www.youtube.com/@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304

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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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If you've ever been to the Railroad Hobby Show in West Springfield, Massachusetts, there's a good chance you've seen Ron's Books and their massive collection of new and used books and DVD's. Now, as they enter into the realm of publishing, it was a great time to have Lee Rosenberg on the show to tell us about the history of the company and what their future plans are. Lee shares how his father, Ron, built the business starting from a single book and a desire to use it to fund his model railroading hobby, leading to today's inventory of over 10,000 books. Later on, Tony and Ray talk about the latest hobby news from Athearn, Tangent, Walthers, Broadway Limited just to name a few plus Tony tells Ray about a new railroad board game he's been playing and a new book from Mike Schafer.

If you're looking for that hard to find book, Ron's Books is the place to go!
https://www.ronsbooks.com/

Subscribe to Model Railorad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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It's quite appropriate that this episode is just slightly larger that most, as we bring S scaler Michael Ostertag on the show. Mike tells us about his railroading roots and how he's put together a long career on the high iron. The controversy begins when Mike tells us about his decision to move from HO to S scale - it's not for the faint of heart and if you're a hardcore HO modeler, just remember that opinions of the guests are not necessarily the opinions of Around The Layout Podcast or its host! Mike rounds out the show by telling us about his role as co-host of Second Section Podcast and details the ever popular Shortline of the Show segment.

Check out Mike's Farlin Terminal Railroad here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2265074807124868

Check out Second Section Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondSectionPodcast

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When Michelle Kempema first appeared on Around The Layout alongside John Gardberg to talk about the Rocky Mountain Train Show, it was a no-brainer to get her back on the show for a full episode, and here it is! Michelle shares her story of going from a volunteer to the Executive Director of the Colorado Model Railroad Museum. Michelle tells us about the museum's origin story and how publisher David Trussell built his dream in Greely, Colorado and how Michelle has taken that dream and, with her team, has made it a destination for model railroaders and train fans from around the world. Additionally, Michelle shares her passion for youth in model railroading and using it as an educational tool though the museum.


Plan your visit to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum:
https://www.cmrm.org/

Another one of Michelle's passions is promoting Women In Model Railroading. Check out their group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/769365970927091/

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patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast


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Finding your "why" - it's a topic that we talked about with Lance Mindheim, and now one of his biggest fans, Joe Mammay, returns to the show to talk about finding his with a new railroad, location and track plan as the Lamoille Valley gives way for the Norfolk Southern C&F Secondary. Joe shares how he learned of this line and how a recent railfanning trip to it solidified his decision. In addition, Joe talks about making this layout acheivable and how he made difficult choices in what to incorporate into the operating plan.

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It's like Scott Thornton had just left the ATLP studio after joining Lonnie Bathurst to talk about the St. Louis RPM, and now he's back to talk to Tony Cook and Ray Arnott about Scenic & Weathering Techniques; the book he's edited and compiled as the first entry in the new Railroad Model Craftsman's Master Craftsman Series. Scott shares with us what went into creating this collaboration from of some of the best modelers on the planet and how the information shared can inspire you to take your modeling to the next level. Later, Tony tells us some of the latest news in the hobby, including announcements from ScaleTrains, Intermountain, Kato and more.

Purchase Scenic & Weathering Techniques here:
https://shop.whiteriverproductions.com/products/swts?_pos=1&_sid=796758b3c&_ss=r

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and keep up with all that's happening in model railroading:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Take a trip through model railroad history on Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!
patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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We head back to Central New York to hear Bill Brown's amazing story of triumph over tragedy and how a great group of friends helped him recover from disaster. Bill shares his origin story, then tells how becoming a member of the CNY Division of the NMRA provided him with incredible opportunities to further his modeling skills and led to meeting the folks that would become lifelong friends. Bill also reflects on memories of Jim Heidt, the first leader of the CNY Division and a dear friend to many, who passed away on June 12th. Closing out the show, Bill tells us about his involvement in Ops 'Til You Drop, a CNY Division event that's become a weekend not to miss.

Check out Bill Brown's LARC Products: https://larcproducts.com/


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It's time to talk about the largest railroad prototype modelers meet in the country - the 16th Annual St Louis RPM. Scott Thornton joins host Ray Arnott as they talk to Lonnie Bathurst, one of the many folks who make the St Louis RPM a show that cannot be missed. Lonnie tells us the show's history and how he became involved in an official capacity. This year's show theme is "The Layout - A Weekend At The Theatre" - and if you've listened to Scott Thornton's Around The Layout interview, you know that's right up his alley! Scott shares his passion for this great event. It's two days you don't want to miss out on - so have a listen and book your trip to The Gateway To The West for a whole bunch of model railroading fun!

Check out the St. Louis RPM's website:
https://www.stlrpm.com/

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On this episode of Around The Layout, we head to Central New York State to chat with Drew James. Drew is the owner of the Canada, Spokane and Pacific HO scale model railroad; an outstanding railroad for its amazing scenery and outstanding operations. Drew tells us the events leading up to this current layout and how the NMRA Central New York division is chock full of talented members willing to help each other create awesome layouts.

Check out this CNY Division produced video of Drew's incredible layout:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QOvXbgCH_Q

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It's the acquisition that everyone's been talking about. No, not Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern and, no, not CSX / Pan-Am. It's ExactRail becoming a part of the ever growing ScaleTrains family and this is so big that we had to get the head of ScaleTrains, Shane Wilson, to tell us all about it. We learn how this deal came about and what it means for both brands. We also get an exclusive about yet another ScaleTrains acquisition you probably didn't hear about until now. Shane shares his summer travel plans as part of this year's ScaleTrains Road Trip, including a stop at the Texas Express 2023 NMRA National Convention for the National Train Show where we can bet on some big announcements that will keep Tony busy with Model Railroad News.

Check out ScaleTrains growing offering!
www.ScaleTrains.com

Keep up with all the model railroad happenings by subscribing to Model Railroad News:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

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After all of the past interrogations and information from informants, we've finally captured the Iowa Interstate Godfather; none other than Joe Atkinson himself. Now that we've beat the dead horse with this mafia thing, we can get down to the business of learning how Joe became such an authority on the Iowa Interstate, leading him to create two versions of the 4th Sub that has inspired fellow IAIS modelers and was featured in the July (not January as I might say in the podcast) 2018 issue of Railroad Model Craftsman.

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It's time to interrogate another member of the Iowa Interstate Mafia as we bring James McNab downtown for a whole line of questioning. Luckliy, James is willing to talk and we learn about his start in the hobby and how a fellow churchgoer's layout inspired him. We also hear how a change of employment led him to the Iowa Interstate and opened up a new world of railroading and friendships.

Check out more on James McNab and The Hills Line:
http://thehillsline.com

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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They say "Everything is bigger in Texas" and the Supercharged, High Speed Texas Express 2023 NMRA National Convention is setting up to keep that promise. We talk to Riley Triggs and Chris Atkins and get the lowdown on all of the exciting activities happening in the Dallas/Fort Worth area during the week of August 20-27. There's an amazing list of prototype events, layout tours, operating sessions, clinics and so much more that you will not want to miss. Chris also tells us about the preparations he's making on his own layout; a story I'm sure echoes with the large group of Texans who are opening their homes to visitors from around the globe.

Don't miss the Texas Express 2023 NMRA National Convention. Register today!
https://2023texasexpress.com/

Check out more on Chris Atkins' layout here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/595441084132491

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It's that time again - Tony Cook's got a 50' hi-cube load of news from the model railroading world to share with us, including a recent acquisition that's getting more news coverage than CPKC and CSX/Pan Am combined, but first we talk to Curtis Koch, Director of Marketing and Social Media at Broadway Limited. Curtis tells us about their revamped website and a bunch of new releases in HO and N scale. Curtis also shares the path that led him to Broadway Limited and gives us a glance into the world of social media promotions.

Broadway Limited has the social media gamut covered!

Website: https://broadway-limited.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BroadwayLimited
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blitrains?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadwaylimited/?hl=en
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@broadwaylimitedimports
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BroadwayLtdTrains/videos

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

With Father's Day less than a week away, we got the father/son duo of William Sampson and William Sampson together to share their bond over model railroading. William Sr. tells us how railroad is in the Sampson blood, with ties to railroading in several generations. He then tells us how he got started in the hobby, with influences from his past leading him to model the Great Northern in 1970. He then shares how his model railroading journey got even better with the arrival of William Jr, who shares his memories of his father's layout and the many lessons and great times he shared with his dad.

Check out the SOO The Milwaukee Road YouTube channel for wildly entertaining videos on both William's layouts: https://www.youtube.com/@SootheMilwaukeeRoad

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There's good news to deliver on this episode of Around The Layout - progress is being made in Washington DC - but only on the model railroading front. That progress is being made by Marty McGuirk, who joins us to share his model railroading story. Learn how a visit to New London, Connecticut became the precursor to an outstanding career and love for the Central Vermont. Marty also shares how a kitchen remodeling project eventually yielded a brand new layout area and how Lance Mindheim helped guide Marty down a "3-3-3" plan for his next model railroad.

Check out Marty's blog on his Central Vermont layouts:
http://centralvermontrailway.blogspot.com/

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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On this episode of Around The Layout, we head back to Texas to chat with yet another freelance model railroader, Joe Bohannon. Joe shares his start in the hobby and the many influences, from California to Washington State to Texas that led to him creating the Chinook Lines. He also tells us about his involvement in historical societies and how the knowledge he gained there provided content for his freelace story.

Check out the Chinook Lines Model Railroad Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/517011158314309

Learn more about the Cascade Rail Foundation:
https://www.milwelectric.org/

Thank you to our show sponsor, Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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From a young age, John Doehring was destined to be a part of the National Model Railroad Association. In this episode, we learn how that journey began and how it has led John to leadership roles at the division, region and now national level. John also tells us about his personal enjoyment of the hobby through N scale modulars and how discovering operations deepened his love for model railroading. Additonally, John talks about his role as Eastern District Director of the NMRA and the changes the organization is making in regards to value for its members.

Learn more about the NMRA and become a member:
https://www.nmra.org/

Check out the HUB Division and see their upcoming events:
https://www.hubdiv.org/

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On this month's What's Happening In Model Railroading, Editior of Model Railroad News' Tony Cook and I get the opportunity to talk to Matt Stern, Communications Manager at Bachmann Trains. Matt tells us about his role at Bachmann and shares some of the latest product releases. Later on, Tony brings us the latest product releases from around the hobby, including one that lets Ray show off some of his "space nerd" knowledge. Tony announces the winner of April's Model Train Resource giveaway and tells the listeners how they can win again in May.

Check out the latest offerings from Bachmann Trains:
https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/

Subscribe to Model Railroad News:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Register for Tony's Model Train Resource:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

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We all know Andy Dorsch as the co-host of the wildly popular Second Section Podcast, but how much do you know about Andy the modeler? We find out in this episode of Around The Layout as Andy takes us back to his childhood railfanning the Chicago and North Western that planted the railroad seed, then on to adulthood as he developed his freelance Mascoutin Valley Railroad. Andy then shares how he met his co-host Michael Ostertag, leading to the development of the Second Section Podcast that facilitates the sharing of model railroading knowledge from some of the leading talent in the hobby.

Check out Andy's Mascoutin Valley Railroad on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/805361333231913

Like and subscribe to the Second Section Podcast on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@SecondSectionPodcast

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It's fun to have an episode of Around The Layout with a guy who's built a train that's gone around many layouts. John Rezuke has become known for his traveling HO scale Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus train and he tells us all about how he chose this project and the massive amount of research he has put in to accurately pay tribute to a train that means so much to so many. John shares with us the relationships this project has developed, including friendships with past circus employees who look to his miniature version to relive the memories made going city to city spreading joy to children of all ages.

Check out The HO Scale Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Train Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071196337016

Learn more about the North Shore Model Railroad Club:
http://www.nsmrc.org/

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Seven days a week, Weather My Trains' Rob Arsenault is producing some of the most realistic and jaw-dropping weathering in the hobby. In this episode of Around The Layout, Rob puts down the brush and tells how a childhood spent on Prince Edward Island and railfanning the PEI sparked his lifelong love for trains. He shares how time spent in the Royal Canadian Air Force provided rare opportunities to witness railroading history and get closer to the action than most. You'll also get an in-depth lesson in paints as Rob guides us to making better product selections; the same ones he's made that produce high quality results.

Learn more about the services offered by Weather My Trains:
https://weathermytrains.com/

Stay up to date with Rob's work on his Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/WeatherMyTrains

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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On this month's What's Happening In Model Railroading, Editor of Model Railroad News' Tony Cook returns to bring us the latest announcements in the hobby. One of the leading announcements is the completely revamped Athearn website and Jim Wiggin, Associate Brand Manager from Athearn stops by to tell us all about it. Later, Tony and Ray talk about annoucements from Athearn, Rapido, Jacksonville Terminal Company, Tangent and Home Shops.

During the show, Tony Cook announces the launch of his website, Model Train Resource. In conjuction with the exciting launch, there's a giveaway that includes MTR stickers and the chance to win a swag bag with a HO scale NSC 6400 scrap gondola from Otter Valley Railroad! Listen close to learn how you can win them both!

Stay up to date with all the industry news - subscribe today to Model Railroad News:
https://modelrailroadnews.com/

Check out Tony's Model Train Resource and take a trip back to the model railroad past:
https://modeltrainresource.com/

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This is the audio from the live Facebook and YouTube event on April 16, 2023. On this special we announced:

Around The Layout is now a weekly show!

Tony Cook returns to What's Happening In Model Railroading with a regular monthly schedule and a new format.

The launch of the Around The Layout Operators Group. Show your support for the podcast by becoming a member at patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcast

Why. It's the question every model railroader should know the answer to, and Lance Mindheim has prided himself in helping model railroaders find their own why. In this episode, we find out how Lance found his own "why" as he shares his own model railroading journey. He also shares how studying the arts has made him a better modeler and how you too can begin to see your layout from a whole new angle. The author of a multitude of how-to books and his own blog, Lance tells us about writing and sharing the lessons he's learned.

Check out Lance Mindheim's website:
https://www.shelflayouts.com/

Follow Lance on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/lance.mindheim

Watch videos from Lance on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/LanceMindheim

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Welcome to another dimmension, where Joe Mammay is the host of Around The Layout and is interviewing Ray Arnott. Come along as we hear about Ray's start in model railroading, from a TYCO set to an attempt at N scale. Ray tells us how the prototype led him back to the hobby, and how joining a club introduced him to his mentor who helped open his eyes to the concept of operations.

Thank you to Joe Mammay who did an outstanding job hosting this April Fools edition of Around The Layout. We hope you enjoy!

Check out Ray's P&W & NECR Interchange Model Railroad on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PWNECRMR

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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The Around The Layout (less than) six degrees of separation has led us to Matt Freix. A friend of past guests Dave Oppensano and Isaac Fabris, Matt joins us and tells his model railroading story; from his childhood modeling with a shovel of dirt on a 4x8 sheet of plywood to a beautifully finished basement where his Gateway Western's Subdivision 6 resides. Matt tells us about the prototype of his current layout and how friends, both in human and quick clamp form have helped him along his journey to recapture the glory of 1995. Matt also talks about the decision process of farming out tasks and how it has helped him focus on the parts of the hobby he enjoys.

Check out Matt's Gateway Western's Subdivision 6 on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2650729181881651

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It's nice to know that people in the model railroading industry are modelers just like us, and that's exactly what we do on this episode of Around The Layout. Jim Wiggin, Associate Brand Manager for Athearn, takes us back to his childhood in central New Hampshire and tells us how an interaction with a Boston & Maine employee boosted his desire to model the prototype. We also learn the influence a local hobby shop owner had, leading him on the path where his hobbies became his profession. Jim tells us about his role at Athearn and the contributions he's making to Athern's content on YouTube.

Check out Jim's Granite State Industrial layout on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/granitestaterail

Subscribe to Athearn's YouTube channel to see more from Jim and his team:
https://www.youtube.com/@AthearnModelTrains

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It's the largest show west of the Mississippi - The Rocky Mountain Train Show - and Co-Chair John Gardberg and the multitasker that needs no title, Michelle Kempema are here to tell us all about it. John and Michelle tell us about their passion for this show that has had a major impact on both. The Rocky Mountain Train Show has something for everyone of all ages and skill levels, with a focus on bringing new people into the hobby and providing them with education and guidance to keep it fun and challenging. John then takes us through the list of vendors and must sees at the show, and Michelle provides us with information on getting to the show by train.

Make plans today to attend the Rocky Mountain Train Show - visit their website at https://rockymountaintrainshow.com/

While you're in the Denver area, the Colorado Model Railroad Museum is a must see!
https://www.cmrm.org/

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The creator and star of "The Pixel Depot", Joe Parker, stops by and tells us a bit about himself and his passion for model railroading and how this has led to his widely successful YouTube channel. Joe shares how membership in the Worcester Model Railroaders provided lessons and lifelong friends, encouraging him to create his own layout. Joe talks about how "The Pixel Depot" motivates not only it's viewers, but himself as well, as he works on not only one, but two seperate layout projects.

Check out The Pixel Depot on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLLZgT_mfw3wDKcA5BaoUA

Visit The Pixel Depot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepixeldepot/

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Tim Blackwell, Editor and Publisher of Cowcatcher Magazine, makes his Around The Layout Podcast debut and tells us about his magazine that is entering it's 20th year of publication. Ray and Tim discuss the results of Cowcatcher’s 2023 State of Model Railroading Survey and add their own thoughts on the future of the hobby. Tim also tells us about the Hobby Manufacturers Association and how their Model Railroad Industry Division is working hard to ensure a bright future for all.

Subscribe to Cowcatcher Magazine today!

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There are no shortage of topics when Thomas Klimoski comes to the Around The Layout studio. A retired firefighter, author, trainman and accomplished model railroader, Tom tells us about his beginnings in the hobby and how a letter written to a well-known model railroader changed his projectory in model railroading and led to amazing opportunities and great friendships.Tom discusses how his personal experiences influenced his book "Buliding The Right Sized Layout" and how you can ensure you're buliding the right layout for you.

Check out Tom's website, full of excellent resources at https://www.thomasklimoski.com/

Thanks to our episode sponsor, Highball Graphics. Check out their website at https://highballgraphics.com/

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com


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He’s been talked about a lot on Around The Layout, but now it’s time to hear from Don Irace himself. Don’s original Providence & Worcester layout in Scituate, Rhode Island was known by many as the layout to see in southern New England, and he gives us the backstory on it’s creation. He shares how he developed operations on this layout, and how lessons from Scituate guided the second version after his move to Sebastian, Florida. Don has inspired many to create their own layouts, and he talks about the role of mentor and how the hobby has created a group of great friends, both in New England and Florida.

Like the Providence & Worcester Model Railroad Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceWorcesterModelRailroad

Check out the PWMRR YouTube channel for videos of both layouts.
https://www.youtube.com/@ThePWMRR

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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We give Streamyard the night off as Mark Herrick does an in-person visit to the Around The Layout studio and tells us about his model railroading journey that has led to the BNSF Montana Division. Listen as Mark tells us about how trips to Montana in his teenage years formed his love of the Burlington Northern and how a trip to “The Mall” sparked his interest in model railroading. Mark also shares how membership in the NMRA led him to a network of great model railroaders and even greater friends.

Check out the BNSF Montana Division Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080157977768

Thank you to our episode sponsor, MACRail. Check them out at www.macrailproducts.com

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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With all of the holiday decorations put away, there's one more big event to look forward to, and that's the 2023 Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show. With over 350 exhibitors and 50 operating layouts filling four buildings at the Eastern States Exposition, this is an event that cannot be missed! We grab hold of a very busy John Sacerdote, Show Director, and get a history lesson on the show before previewing the must see vendors, layouts, clinics and events and providing tips on getting the most out of this two-day railroading extravaganza.

For more information and to plan your trip to the show, check out their website at www.railroadhobbyshow.com

Thanks to our episode sponsor, Otter Valley Railroad. Check them out at www.ovrtrains.com

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We’re off to the Sunshine State for a visit to Sebastian, the town that might become the capital of model railroading in Florida, and meet up with John Farrington. We learn how his grandfather helped light his youthful passion for model trains and how he rediscovered the hobby through content on YouTube. John talks about creating his own YouTube channel and by doing so, is paying forward the knowledge he’s obtained. Additionally, we learn how John met fellow resident Don Irace and the role he’s played in designing and building John’s Somerset Industrial layout. And be sure to listen carefully for a special guest appearance from Merlin The Cat.

See more on John’s layout and get great modeling tips on his YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@RailserveJohn

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On this episode, we head down to Decatur, Texas and head above the garage to check out Dean Ferris’ Oregon Joint Line in N scale. Dean tells us how railfanning as a youth and as a college student played a major role in his decision to model the Pacific Northwest. He also discusses how his current layout has changed and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Additionally, Dean shares how he’s met Chris Atkins, Greg McComas, Chris Palmieri and many others that have become regulars at his operating sessions.

Subscribe to the Oregon Joint Line Model Railroad YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@oregonjointlinemodelrailro4125

Visit the Oregon Joint Line group on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1361988240533232

Check out Dean’s article in the October 2021 Railroad Model Craftsman
https://shop.whiteriverproductions.com/products/rmc-202110

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It’s Santa Fe All The Way on this episode of Around The Layout as we talk to Oklahoma’s own Sammy Carlile about his Santa Fe Hereford Subdivision HO scale layout. We learn how train trips as a kid fostered Sammy’s love for trains and especially the Santa Fe. We also hear about his passion for railroad photography; the challenges of pre-digital photography that we may have forgotten about and how these captures became a great resource for modeling. Additionally, we learn how his son Samuel has taken on both hobbies, with the layout and cameras now shared between father and son.

Check out Samuel Carlile’s YouTube channel, which includes video of the layout and more.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtRRycbVo9T_sKjydNVCIYg

Also visit Steve Davis’ YouTube channel for great operations videos on the Hereford Sub.
https://www.youtube.com/user/TTownTrainFan

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On Thanksgiving Eve 2022, I went live on Facebook and YouTube to express my thanks to the many folks who have made Around The Layout possible. Here's the recording of that event. Find out why I don't do the podcast live as I stumble through without a whole lot of notes but with a lot of appreciation for those who have contributed to the show.

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What do you get when you combine an art teacher with a love of model railroading? You get Tom Johnson and a spectacular layout filled with super detailed scenes that tell the story of the late 70's in northern Indiana. Listen as Tom tells about growing up around the prototype and how it has influenced him to create a freelance story of his own on a layout perfectly sized for simple, yet realistic operations. Tom also shares the backstory of his recent article in the October 2022 Railroad Model Craftsman and how taking the photographs was a family affair.

Read more about Tom Johnson's Cass County HO Scale Layout in Railroad Model Craftsman: https://rrmodelcraftsman.com/

Join the Facebook HO Scale Shelf Modelers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/484711889437745

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For the November edition of What's Happening In Model Railroading, we take a (virtual) trip to Tillsonburg, Ontario, Canada to Otter Valley Railroad and talk to owner Lorne James. Lorne tells us about his family owned shop and how it started as a young man's dream and became one of the premier model railroad retailers in Canada. Lorne also tells how Otter Valley is expanding into the manufacturing business with their first line of cars, and takes us through his process of meticulous research to ensure accuracy and quality. With the holidays coming, Lorne also provides us with some things to consider putting on your wish list this season.

Check out Otter Valley Railroad online at http://www.ovrtrains.com/

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While most know Bloomfield Connecticut's John Sacerdote as the well dressed Show Director of the Amherst Railway Society's Railroad Hobby Show, this episode focuses on John the layout owner as we explore his Berlin, Bangor and Maine layout. John talks about how a trip to an iconic Hartford Connecticut department store ignited a lifelong love affair with model trains that has lasted to this day.

Learn more about the Amherst Railway Society here: http://amherstrail.org/

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On this episode, we head back to the Lone Star State and talk to Greg McComas, owner of the Michigan Interstate St. Clair Subdivision and MAC Rail Products. Greg fills us in on how the idea for his freelance railroad developed, then shares how he's implemented his vision on his double deck layout. We also learn how MAC Rail was born out of a necessity to create niche parts and has grown to supplying those hard to find modern details.

Like and follow the Michigan Interstate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069293202704

Check out MAC Rail's offerings here: https://macrailproducts.com/

Pick up your own Michigan Interstate PS-4750 hopper from Home Shops LLC: https://homeshops.net/

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There are some folks who aren’t afraid to take on a challenge, and Scott Thornton is one of them. Join us as Scott tells how he’s not only building his first layout, but also writing about it in an ongoing series in the hobby’s leading publication, Railroad Model Craftsman. Scott also shares his passion for enhancing operations with takeaways from the fantasy board gamer world and how he’s developing a theatre aspect to his layout. From his involvement with Iowa Scaled Engineering and his own Scotty’s Model Shop, this is one interesting guy with a lot to share.

Check out more on the Milan Branch here: http://milanbranch.com/

Check out the Fiberail Track Cleaner and much more at Scotty’s Model Shop.
https://www.scottysmodelshop.com/#/


Take your operations to the next level with a ProtoThrottle and check out the other creations from Iowa Scaled Engineering. https://www.iascaled.com/store/

Subscribe to Railroad Model Craftsman to catch Scott’s ongoing "Branch Line on a Shelf” series. https://rrmodelcraftsman.com/

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There wasn't a What's Happening in Model Railroading episode in September, so we needed the right guy to get us back on the rails, and that guy is none other than the editor of Model Railroad News, Tony Cook. Tony's notebook was full of what seems to be a flood of new product releases and he highlights quite a few, including offerings from Rapido, Walthers, Diecast Masters, Broadway Limited, ExactRail and much more.

Subscribe to Model Railroad News and get all the latest happenings in the hobby delivered to your mailbox or inbox: https://shop.whiteriverproductions.com/products/mrn?variant=1203671940

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In this episode of Around The Layout, we go deep into the vivid imagination of Chris Palmieri and learn about the alternate railroading reality he has created in the freelance world of "The Meridian Speedway." Chris talks about the how he, from an early age, has been developing his own model railroad story based on his deep and growing knowledge of prototype operations. You'll learn how this has led to the creation of Home Shops, LLC and how his new venture helps spread not only his story but those of fellow freelance modelers across the planet.

Check out The Meridian Speedway website: https://www.meridianspeedway.net/

Shop Home Shops LLC for freelance model railroad cars: https://homeshops.net/

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They say “everything is bigger in Texas” and Chris Atkins’ Sheridan and Everywhere West HO Scale Layout is beginning to live up to it. Chris tells us how he came to own his former Texas & Pacific section house and shares his progress as he brings his proto-freelance empire to life. He also talks about his role in the upcoming 2023 Texas Express NMRA National Convention and how that’s adding some pressure to have the layout ready for tours and operations.

HO Scale Sheridan and Everywhere West Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NPCBQ

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Illinois’ own Isaac Fabris climbs aboard and tells us about his CN/IC Heyworth Spur and the events that led up to him modeling his hometown railroad. Isaac shares his thoughts on layout design and gives helpful tips to those just starting out in the planning process.

Check out the CN/IC Heyworth Spur Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/607099757235527

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On our first “What’s Happening in Model Railroading” show, we catch up with a very busy Tony Cook, Editor of Model Railroad News. Tony tells us about some of the exciting product announcements at the St. Louis Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet and the National Train Show at the Gateway 2022 NMRA National Convention. Ray and Tony also talk about the explosion of “cottage industry” manufacturers and the positive impact they are having on the hobby.

Subscribe to Model Railroad News: https://modelrailroadnews.com/

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Dave Oppedisano joins us to talk about his BNSF Lakeside Subdivision layout. Ray and Dave met at the New England/Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet in Springfield MA, and they discuss this event and Dave's presentation during NERPM. Dave tells us about the Lakeside Sub area and the parts he's incorporating into his layout. He also shares advice about choosing backdrop materials and shares his passion for all things electronics.

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Dan Dossa joins us from Eden Prairie, Minnesota to tell us about his Minnesota Commercial HO scale switching layout. Dan shares his progression in the hobby and how the prototype aligned perfectly for model railroad operations. Dan also talks about his involvement in the Twin Cities Division of the NMRA and their outstanding podcast, TCD Crossing Gate.

Listen to Dan and the crew at the TCD Crossing Gate here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1429390

Learn more about the Twin Cities Division of the NMRA: https://tcdnmra.org/

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NMRA Nutmeg Division Superintendent Jeff Hanke stops by to tell us about the upcoming Connecticut Yankee Regional Convention. Jeff previews the events that will be taking place September 15th-18th at the Marriott Hartford/Windsor Airport Hotel in Windsor, Connecticut.

For more information or to register, visit https://ner-conventions.org/connecticut-yankee

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Joe Musgrove shares his path from modeling in N scale to his current HO scale Missouri Pacific Railroad Central Division layout. Joe talks about the challenges in changing scales, and discusses his methods for researching the prototype. He also tells us about his growing YouTube channel and how he's giving back to the community he's learned from by sharing tip and techniques he's learned.

Joe's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3aKrXCVuCbYLBmXqygQINw/videos

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It's a trip back to the late 1940's as Chris Adams talks about how his passion for NYNH&H history has driven him to model New Haven's Connecticut Valley line in HO. Chris shares the collaborative effort from a large circle of friends that has made The Valley Local not only a great layout to operate, but a trip back in time as it tells the story of post WWII railroading. Chris also shares his impressions of the recently visited Franklin & South Manchester and his takeaways from the recent New England / Northeast Railroad Prototype Modelers meet in Springfield MA.

See more of this outstanding layout on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2314972308548030

Check out The Valley Local's website - www.thevalleylocal.net

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Joe Mammay joins Ray Arnott as they celebrate 2000 downloads of the podcast by reading some of the emails sent in by the listeners.

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Painter and model railroader Kevin Gallagher tells us about Hopedale Shops and how he has created a plethora of beautiful custom locomotives for customers and for himself. He shares some of the techniques he uses in creating accurate and highly detailed products. Kevin also shares how he worked his way into becoming an engineer on the Hobo and Winnipesaukee Railroads.

Check out Hopedale Shops on Facebook: fb.com/hopedaleshops

Kevin highly recommends Highball Graphics: https://highballgraphics.com/

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On this episode of Around The Layout, we talk to Kyle LeBlanc, who models the 1950's Boston & Maine in HO scale. Kyle tells us how he chose the B&M, talks about the influence his late father Ron had on his modeling and how he's incorporating structures from his dad's layout into his own. Ray and Kyle share lessons from their late friend on kit bashing and never fearing cutting a structure to make it work and review their recent trip to George Sellios' Franklin and South Manchester layout.

Paul Cassar joins us from Sydney, Australia and tells us about his River Belt Line HO scale shelf layout. He shares the process of building this 18’ x 18’ switching layout in his garage using commercial shelving units. We also learn about the wildly popular HO Scale Shelf Modelers Facebook group that Paul administers and find out how he’s worked to crack the Facebook algorithm and grow the group to over 9.3 thousand members.

Check out Paul's River Belt Line: https://www.facebook.com/The-River-Belt-Line-400978519962021

The HO Scale Shelf Modelers Facebook group can be found at https://www.facebook.com/groups/484711889437745

Paul recommends you check out Boomer Diorama for great modeling tips:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BoomerDioramasTheImmersiveModelRailroad

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Around The Layout T-Shirts are now available for pre-order! Go to aroundthelayout.com and click Fan Store to order. Shirts will ship by late June 2022.

The big topic is small layouts when Mike King drops by to talk about his CSX West Mansfield HO scale layout which is nestled in the attic of his farmhouse in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. Mike and Ray weigh the pros and cons of having smaller layouts and the challenges they present. We also learn how Mike creates cost effective buildings and uses a 3D printer to make scenery components that are unique to his layout.

Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.com

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Cory Scothon joins us to talk about the process of transitioning his Providence & Worcester HO scale layout from a single user continuous loop design to one that can hold operating sessions with up to four operators. We discuss the challenges he faced and how he used the local prototype to help develop his operating scheme. Cory also tells us about his start in the hobby, and how model railroading has become a bond between himself and his father.

Follow Cory on Instagram - @pwmodelrr

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Joe Mammay shares his passion for layout track design and talks us through the process. We discuss the progress he is making on the Lamoille Valley Railroad in HO scale and how he decided on this now-defunct short line as his subject.

Looking to get help on designing your layout? Joe can help! Reach out to him at [email protected].

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Ray Arnott talks about the new podcast and gives us a preview of Episode 1.

Show Notes and Links:

aroundthelayout.com

facebook.com/aroundthelayout

[email protected]

www.youtube.com/c/ThirtyFiveProductions