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/79388438443Learn 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-pageSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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/nutmegnmraFollow the Nutmeg Division on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nutmegnmra/Subscribe to the Nutmeg Division on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@nutmegdivisionnmra8046Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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.comSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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/MFRailroadRead Matt's blog on his website:http://www.mfrailroad.comDownload OpsBuddy here:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y8jbRy0lxMmmrtj_qnKQb1stEQMqq_BGPU02VjTeQmQ/edit?usp=sharingThank 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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend 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=WJg4PJRa3DQSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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/Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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] the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/minemountmodelsSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/@SootheMilwaukeeRoadSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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/@MainTrackSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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=MqBkwuaeQpdExYnFThank 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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend 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] the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/@DIYDigitalRailroadSupport the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/2265074807124868Check out Second Section Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondSectionPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.Support the podcast and get yourself signed up for free giveaways by becoming a member of the ATLP Operating Crew!patreon.com/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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=rSubscribe 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/AroundTheLayoutPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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_QCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.comKeep up with all the model railroad happenings by subscribing to Model Railroad News:https://modelrailroadnews.com/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.Check out our website:www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/595441084132491Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/BroadwayLimitedTwitter: https://twitter.com/blitrains?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadwaylimited/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@broadwaylimitedimportsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BroadwayLtdTrains/videosCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected] 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/@SootheMilwaukeeRoadCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/517011158314309Learn 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.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/805361333231913Like and subscribe to the Second Section Podcast on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SecondSectionPodcastCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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=100071196337016Learn more about the North Shore Model Railroad Club:http://www.nsmrc.org/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/WeatherMyTrainsCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.mindheimWatch videos from Lance on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/LanceMindheimCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/PWNECRMRCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/2650729181881651Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/granitestaterailSubscribe to Athearn's YouTube channel to see more from Jim and his team:https://www.youtube.com/@AthearnModelTrainsCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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_mfw3wDKcA5BaoUAVisit The Pixel Depot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepixeldepot/Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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!Check out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]

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/ProvidenceWorcesterModelRailroadCheck out the PWMRR YouTube channel for videos of both layouts.https://www.youtube.com/@ThePWMRRCheck out our website: www.aroundthelayout.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/aroundthelayoutSend us an email: [email protected]