|
|
|
About Us...
|
All modelers have a life but what do we know of it. This podcast is as much about the people in the hobby of model railroading as it is about the hobby itself.
Having always been a fan of the long form conversational interview and having met so many interesting people in the hobby over the years we decided it would be fun to share their back stories with everyone else. So come along with me, Lionel Strang and a strong cast of supporting characters as we discover how life intertwines with this great hobby of ours and helps to strengthen the fabric of who we are as individuals. |
Upcoming Episodes...
|
All-Star Variety Hour #43 -
We try to interview everyone here at the ole’ AML Network but sometimes one or two important members of the hobby slip through the cracks. In this episode we discover a someone that’s been a major contributor to the hobby for quite a while now. Our very own “Bruce the Mailboy” has been moderating some valuable discussions in the Groups io and we’ve only just now found out. Plus, we have a great interview with Eric Hansmann who’s been researching and compiling as much information as possible about railroads from more than a century ago, “Uncle” Dave helps host this segment and brings us his perspective as only “Uncle” Dave can. Sit back in the lazy-boy close your eyes and before you know it your wife Dolly will yelling at you about cutting the grass. Enjoy!! https://designbuildop.hansmanns.org/ https://groups.io/g/Ry-ops-industrialSIG https://groups.io/g/small-layout-design? |
Recent Episodes...
|
Fans of the AML #51 -
It’s always fun to be invited to another railroad for an operating session and crucial to any good session is the food, whether it’s meeting at the local pizza joint for a pregame meal or having the host prepare a home cooked meal for the crew, but even more critical are the snacks. Some layout hosts go with the bare minimum while others will go above and beyond with the ultimate… A snack buffet !! In this episode of the “Fans” we found out each member of the “Fans”crew has their own idea of what constitutes a good serving of snacks and our very own modeler simply known as “Kelly” tells us the HO scale club at the Medford Railroad Park even has a healthy supply of ice cream bars for the members to enjoy. It’s another fun podcast with gang down at the ole’ AML headquarters, so grab yourself a big bowl of shredded candy wrappers, a tall cool glass of melted vanilla ice cream bars and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 195: David Heyde Part Two -
What’s the deal with guys named Dave?? Every Dave we’ve interviewed on the ole’ AML has a passion for model railroading that almost can’t be described in words and when you think about it, that’s why the Evel Overlord decided to start this podcast. Not only is he one of the most capable French horn players in the world, but our next guest also has limitless enthusiasm for the hobby. This is a great discussion describing how the hobby helps David cope with the day-to-day pressures of a job that requires him to perform his best at all times. Plus, he describes the joys of friendship, some cool new products and how he eventually intends to replace the lawn in front of his home with static grass. Grab a big bowl of shredded musical scores, a tall cool glass of horn spit and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chats #4 -
Building a model railroad of any size is an ambitious undertaking, it takes plenty of desire, ambition, determination, motivation and enthusiasm to even get close to what would be considered a finished layout. Each one of us has pondered those moments when we might question why we even began such a project, so we here at the ole’ AML headquarters decided there’s only one man who could answer this… Our very own, “Uncle” Dave and of course he was only too happy to talk about it. This is another great “Fireside Chat” covering a wide range of topics with some philosophy thrown in for good measure. Get yourself a bag of Stay-Puft Quality Marshmallows, a tall cool glass of yellow glue, your favorite lawn chair and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
All-Star Variety Hour #42 -
They say variety is the spice of life and we here at the ole’ ModelersLife headquarters feel the same way. In this podcast we get an update from Ron Klaiss of Mine Mount Models and news of his latest kit, McQuirk Coal and included with this kit is a coal conveyer Ron designed and built. If you ask Ron nicely and tell him the crew at the AML Nation sent you, he might just sell the conveyor separately. After the subway chimes, we meet up with Keith Revell who fills us in on the progress of his HO scale Shay locomotive, gives us an update on how his company KR Models continues to grow and how to start a model railroad manufacturing company simply by Googling it. There’s a whole lot of info in this podcast, so don’t get started unless you have a pen and paper handy. Click Here For the Free Download |
|
ViewerMail Flight #93 -
It’s time once again to answer our voluminous ViewerMail with questions from all over the “Nation.” This time we cover everything from the “Queso Cowboy” wondering what he’s done, while reading an email from Lee Flandrich we get confused thinking Kelly’s from Minnesota where all the crotchety curmudgeons lived but discover that in fact Kelly spent a good part of his life in Connecticut fighting fires and hanging out with Paul Newman. There’s talk of an AML meet-up north of the border and discover our Rodger Coleman finds Nick Santo in his basement running hoping for a free dinner. There’s lots more to get excited about in this edition of ViewerMail, so sit down in your favorite lawn chair and grab yourself a big bowl of leftover cookie dough, a tall cool glass of cooking oil and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 194: Steve Tuff -
So, you’re wondering what it’s like when a fully qualified heavy truck mechanic and a world class chef decide to start their own 3D printing company?? Well as luck would have it, we found two such guys and learn their story from the ground up. Steve and Dan are a couple of lifelong model railroaders with an itch to improve the hobby for as many folks as possible. Yelton Models is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with, with such products as the HO Scale replica of AC Tower in Marion, Ohio. There was unfortunately a little bit of ugliness when the Evel Overlord discovered they’d yet to create a website for their wonderful products, but after some negotiations and careful thought it was decide that it would be best for all if one was created post-haste. This is a great episode to be enjoyed well sipping margaritas on the beach in St. Maarten. Enjoy !! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Waz' Happenin' with Lorne James -
It’s time once again to check in with our favorite hobby shop in Tillsonburg… My back still aches when I hear this word!! But before we find out what’s new at Otter Valley Railroad the Evel Overlord desperately needs help buying a gift certificate for his friend Cleetus. After several attempts on his own he requested the help Lorne the owner of OVR who finally decided that because the Overlord was an international man of mystery the website became over-whelmed with excitement. We also got the chance to talk more about the fabulous world of model railroad retail and about the exciting new projects OVR has planned for the future. Lorne and his pal Andrew have decided to tip their toe into the world of manufacturing, and we got the low down on their first project. Grab yourself a big bowl of shredded sales receipts, a tall cool glass of warm packaging tape glue and enjoy !! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
All-Star Variety Hour #41 -
What better way to find out what’s happening with your friends than getting them on the ole’ AML podcast?? We haven’t heard from our resident 7 ½” gauge expert Adam for a quite a while and there’s been plenty of changes at Prospector Models with a new 2 ½” scale gondola kit ready to be released and there’s plenty of news about building steam engines. Then of course there’s our little buddy “the Mayor of Hornepayne” with all his adventures as a full-time employee of the Canadian National Railroad. There’s plenty of discussion about being trackside to see our very own “Boy George” at the controls of Train 451. Get comfortable in your favorite chair with a big steaming mug of cocoa, a large bowl of crushed ballast cereal and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Fans of the AML #50 -
Celebrating fifty of anything is always exciting but to have recorded fifty episodes of the “Fans” is mighty special. The brain trust behind the AML fans page was our very own Chris Atkins as he sat pondering life on the porch of his home in Argyle, Texas… Home of the “Fighting Socks.” Who better to help us celebrate this great occasion than the NMRA president simply known as “Gordy??” That’s right, it’s over ninety minutes of discussion about standards and conformance from the president of the NMRA to help us celebrate fifty episodes of the “Fans.” Get comfortable in the old lazy boy with a hot cup cocoa all snuggled in your favorite PJ’s as you struggle to stay awake and enjoy this great podcast. Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Kelly Questions Round 69: Jim Lincoln -
It’s time for another exciting round of the Kelly Questions and this show’s featured victim…Errr… Guest, is none other than Jim Lincoln, railroad conductor, track laying expert, NASCAR fan… Actually, check that. He’s purchases used trucks, built by well-known NASCAR race teams. Aside from his many other interests Jim, is a lover of all things Disney and even named his model railroad the Carolwood Pacific. A fan of all different aspects of railroading Jim’s love of the hobby easily comes to the fore-front as he’s grilled with question after question and then finally falling asleep at the end of the couch. It’s time to get yourself a big bowl of shredded mouse ears, a tall cool glass of melted amusement park ice and enjoy !! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
TomStock 2020 Update !! -
It’s finally happening, our long AML Nation nightmare is finally coming to an end and TomStock 2020 is literally just weeks away. One of the greatest gatherings in AML history is about to take place with four days of peace, love and little trains !! It’s a jam pack festival with your fellow AMLer’s coming from all over the globe for this special event. Starting with dinner at the Shady Maple restaurant on Wednesday evening, a Budd Car ride on Thursday to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania via the Reading and Northern Railroad, a bus tour on Friday to Strasburg Railway, a hobby shop, Dairy Queen and Ken McCorry’s fabulous Conrail layout. Saturday is the sometimes-annual AML BBQ followed by an evening game of double “A’ baseball with the Reading Fightin’ Phils taking on the Portland Sea Dogs. This is gonna be an AML event to remember, so pack plenty of sunscreen, your favorite AML t-shirt and get ready for the time of your life !! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Waz' Happenin' with Mike Hauk -
It’s always fun to check back in with some of our guests to see what they’ve been up to and if you ask enough questions, you just never know what you might find out. Have you ever heard of “Operating Sessions.com”, we hadn’t either until Mike explained exactly what it is?? Ever wondered what it’s like to spend months and months planning a convention only to have it wiped out by a world-wide pandemic?? Ever wondered how do give a clinic about static grass?? We did to and found out Mike is one guy who’s always discovering the magic of grass that’s static. What about being a retired doctor?? We have the answers, but more importantly have you ever wondered how to get cab rides when travelling about the country with your buddy?? Grab yourself a big bowl of shredded puff ball tress, a tall cool glass of spray on adhesive to get these answers and more!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 193: Lance Mindheim -
Every once in a while, we meet a model railroader that brings more to the table than most and our next guest fits this description perfectly. With three personal layouts, several books, dozens of articles in the model railroad press and a successful private layout construction business, Lance Mindheim is a true asset to the hobby of model railroading. This is a great podcast about one individual’s dedication to a hobby that’s provided him with a lifetime of enjoyment and in recent years a steady source of income. Along with Tom Klimoski and William Sampson, Lance answers our questions, provides plenty of thoughtful commentary, lots to think about and most of all makes his enthusiasm for the hobby well known. Enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chats Volume 3 -
Gather round kids for more exciting tales of model railroading’s wild west as “Uncle” Dave describes all the work that goes into preparing the Onondaga Cutoff for an operating session on Conrail’s, Albany Division. Many locomotive wheels are cleaned, and the track is brought to a gleaming shine to accommodate the dozens of long trains that weave their way around the layout. You’ll never see the same consist twice on the “Cutoff” because this is a railroad that recreates as prototypically as possible running Conrail’s “Chicago Line” around Syracuse, New York. There’s also a great discussion about creating the feel of real railroading by the methodical movement of freight cars around the layout. So curl up in your chair with a hot cup of cocoa and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife Check out Dave's Blog here: https://onondagacutoff.blogspot.com/ |
|
NERPM ('cuse me) is Back !! -
It’s back!! It’s back!! After a long and lonely absence, one of the best RPM meets in the country is alive and well. The New England or Northeast (honestly, it’s been so long they can’t remember the name exactly) Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet has been revitalized and is back for another great gathering with lots of fabulous models on display, dozens of clinics and as always, the best model railroad raffle east of Trout Run, Pennsylvania!! Dave Owens and the crew have found a new hotel in Springfield, Mass., enlisted the help of Amherst show director John Sacerdote and rounded up some of their favorite model railroad vendors. You can pay in advance online, $40 bucks, or $45 bucks at the door and this year there’s a one-day registration for just $25 bucks!! So toss those beautiful models in a box, gas up the Subaru and head on out to the next great NERPM (‘cuse me) meet !! Click Here For the Free Download NERPM on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NERPM |
|
ViewerMail Flight #92 -
Still trying to figure out what to do with that extra two hours you found in the pocket of an old sports jacket?? You were hoping to sell an original version of this podcast, but you threw the box away?? There’s a small, bearded man named Nick in your basement that won’t leave?? Your wife just had a beautiful baby girl while you listened to the latest AML podcast and now you’re googling divorce lawyers. We can’t help you with any of these problems but if you listen long enough, you’ll discover that transparency is rule number one here at the ole’ AML Network but we can’t verify if that’s correct because accuracy has never been a consideration. Grab yourself a big bowl of beard shavings, a tall cool glass of Wahl’s clipper oil and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife Bubba's Anytime Cafe: https://www.facebook.com/Bubbas-Anytime-117852141607504/ |
|
Episode 192: Lex Parker -
What is it they say…?? All good things must come to an end, after years of work and enjoyment model railroads are most often subjected to the same fate, total destruction with hopefully structures, locomotives and cars being saved for a future layout. Our next guest has already experienced what it’s like to take down a beautifully crafted model railroad but in its place he built a newer and better version of the Denver & Rio Grande Western. The website can be found here: http://drgwrr.com and you can follow along on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/LexParkersModelRailroad There’s only one thing that could possibly make this story have a better ending; the layout has been sold in its complete form to a gentleman on the other side of the word in Tasmania. Lex’s layout will live on and continue to bring hours of enjoyment folks in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a great story, so get comfortable in your favorite chair, throw another shrimp on the Barbie, cuddle up with your favorite Tasmanian Devil and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Waz' Happenin' with Chris Adams -
It’s been a while since we’ve heard from our favorite sweater vest model “Mr. Fitness,” rumor has it there’s been quite a bit of progress on his layout as of late, so we figured this was as good a time as any to take a trip over to Old Saybrook, Connecticut and find out for ourselves whats happening on the New haven Railroad in the fall of 1948. This a great podcast with lots of helpful discussion about learning how to push forward in order to make progress and even more conversation on backdrops, with tips on what to look for, how to string photos together, getting help from your friend Bill and learning to be satisfied with what you’ve accomplished. It’s time to grab yourself a big bowl of shredded photo paper, a tall cool glass of scenic cement and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Kelly Questions Round 68: Michelle Kempema -
There are some people in this world that just can’t help but make you feel good about life and so it is with our next contestant under the tin foil helmet. She’s been spreading happiness and joy throughout the model railroading community for several years now, whether it’s flying all over the lower forty-eight checking out the latest in railroading, both model and prototype, or holding down the fort at one of the country’s top model railroad attractions. This was one of the toughest versions of the Kelly Questions to score and after several large pads of scrap paper, boxes full of erasers and enough pencils to outfit your local high school Bruce the Mailboy was able to finally establish a score. It’s a great episode, so grab yourself a big bowl of leaded pencil shavings, a tall cool glass of melted museum floor wax and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Fans of the AML #49 -
Did somebody say shop tour !! It’s time once again to find out what the fans are saying about the AML Nation but unfortunately we ran out of time for that, so instead we heard about the first shake down session of “the Crossline,” a trip to Greenville, South Carolina, Chris Atkins’ Dad almost playing lead guitar for the Beach Boys, “Hard Parts” trip to the Chicago O-Scale show and an almost shop tour at the Reading & Northern. The Evel Overlord finally made a visit to Scott “the Duke” Lister’s Greenville and Northern Railroad and wasn’t disappointed, especially when he found there was plenty of bacon for everyone. Get comfortable in your favorite jammies with a big bowl of shredded wrapping paper, a steaming hot mug of melted candle grease and enjoy !! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 191: Greg Javonillo & Hurricane Ida -
Ever wonder what it’s like to be the president of a model railroad club with a long and storied history in southern Louisiana after a hurricane?? Our next guest is that very person and after Hurricane Ida decide to cut a path of destruction through New Orleans it was time to inspect the damage. The Crescent City Model Railroad Club sustained serious damage after a neighbor’s roof came off his home causing multiple holes in the club’s permanent home, but the problems didn’t stop there. With insufficient insurance and a mountain of government regulations to overcome, Greg decided it was time to roll up his sleeves and do the best he could to save the club. It’s a great story of perseverance against what some might see as insurmountable odds. Enjoy. Donate here: https://gofund.me/a96d6a2b Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Springfield Show Report #4 !! -
It’s the final Springfield show report of 2022, with another great line-up of guests as the “Queso Cowboy” interviews Neil from East Coast Circuits and Matt Herman from ESU. Plus, Queso and Scott “the Duke” Lister talk with Otto Vondrak about getting their layouts featured in Railroad Model Craftsman. We also get a chance to chat with Art Dutra, Chris Palmieri from Home Shops, Matt from Resourced Rails and show director John Sacerdote about trying to make the show successful after Covid and during the snowstorm of the century. These have been for great show reports, fun was had by all and it’s time to get comfortable in that favorite “Lazy Boy” with a big bowl of shredded microphone cords, a tall cool glass of week-old soda and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Springfield Show Report #3 !! -
It’s time for another exciting edition of the Springfield show report with a few of the same characters and some folks who’ve never heard before on the podcast. After the big Geep-30 announcement from ScaleTrains we wandered back into their booth to talk with Bailey the human ball of energy, Todd Arnett a long-time contributor and Norfolk & Western devotee. We of course talk to the big cheese Shane Wilson and Jesse the winner of the paint scheme contest. Next up is a great interview with Jeff Springer of Custom Model railroads and Tom Jacobs the “Queso Cowboy.” Finally, two fellows who made their first ever appearance of the big show, Tom Schmieder and Ralph Heiss, regular operators on the Onondaga Cutoff. It was fun to talk with everyone but Ralph’s discussion about Uncle Dave’s ability to play the triangle is classic AML material. Sit back and relax with a big bowl of shredded OC bulletins, a tall cool glass of melted cheese and enjoy !! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
ViewerMail Flight #91 !! -
Get yourself strapped in, pull those belts tight and get ready to thunder down the runway with the ever-ready AML crew as we once again take off into the clear blue sky answering our voluminous ViewerMail. As always our viewers have introduced us to a wide variety of topics as we give folks something else to think about during troubled times and figuring out why the modeler simply known as Kelly has been put in charge of live steam operations at the Medford Railroad Park. Listen as the AML gang tries to sooth the fears of the Queso Cowboy while the clock to TomStock continues to wind down, the Evel Overlord annoys his secretary to no end, “Uncle” Dave gets a shout out from Alex Mantle, Rich Wisneski becomes known simply as “the Wiz.” There’s so much mediocre information it’s best to find a seat, grab a big bowl of shredded address labels, a steaming hot mug of unused boiler water and enjoy !! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 190: the NMRA Goes Digital !! -
For years we were told the possibility of having the NMRA’s monthly magazine going digital just wasn’t possible, it just didn’t pencil out, there just weren’t enough electrons in the universe for such a thing to even consider doable. It seemed as if all was lost and the vision of taking the NMRA into the digital age would be gone forever, until one day a stranger sitting tall in the saddle, rode into town with little more than a sack of dreams and a trusty sidekick named Riley. People came from far and wide as the stranger stood on a mountain of blue boxes telling them not to be afraid, he’d round up the electrons and soon, they’d be able to load it on their tablet, phone, laptop, or tabletop computer without fear of the apocalypse. It’s a great story, so warm up the Motorola and gather round for another exciting tale of life in model railroading’s wild west. Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Springfield Report - Part Two!! -
It’s a continuation of our report from this year’s Springfield show and we’ve got all the bases covered, starting with Tim Blackwell at “Cowcatcher” magazine to Michelle Kempema from the Colorado Model Railroad Museum. You’ll also hear from the Crossline’s electrical wiz, Val Pistilli, Lego modeler Cale Leiphart (not Phil), Dave Owens from NERPM, our very own Ron Klaiss from Mine Mount Models and we learn as much as we can about Hattons, one of Britain’s largest model railroad shops. Of course, Bruce the Mailboy joins us to get the show underway and we discuss video making techniques with the Evel Overlord. So, grab yourself a big bowl of shredded train show floor maps, a tall cool glass of melted concession stand ice and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Springfield Report - Part One!! -
It’s back, it’s back, the Springfield, Big “E”, Amherst train show is back and we sent a crack team of reporters to find out what’s new in the world of model railroading. After closing down the show last year, John Sacerdote and his team decided it was full speed ahead, fighting mother nature as the snowstorm of century arrived just as the doors opened to the general public. Despite less than capacity crowds, several vendors missing in action, there was still plenty to see and do as folks from all over stopped by the ModelersLife booth to say hello and spend time in the hot seat answering questions. So grab yourself a big bowl of leftover week-old coleslaw, a tall cool glass of melted slush and enjoy!!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
"Uncle" Dave Goes Patreon -
The AML Nation is pretty well acquainted with Dave Abeles and his model railroad. Turns out his 37-part Trilogy was just the beginning with big news from The Onondaga Cutoff. "Uncle" Dave finally decided to go ahead with it, “OC” has started its very own Patreon page! After creating his very popular Facebook Live 'Trackside on the Onondaga Cutoff' shows during the pandemic it felt like something was missing so Dave decided to produce a channel dedicated to the story behind what you've seen in those Live videos and numerous articles in both Model Railroader and Railroad Model Craftsman. So grab a seat and ride along through Central New York as we listen to how Dave is working to create videos that take you backstage to one of today's most popular model railroads. Click Here For the Free Download Check it out here: https://www.patreon.com/onondagacutoff/posts |
|
Fans of the AML #48 -
So you’re a fan of the AML but would prefer not to tell us about your next railfanning trip for fear we might tag along, your shamrock shake is so green you’re not sure how old it is. Last time you drove through a train show, the guys at Rapido Trains tried to make you pay a toll with Canadian money, your flight to Atlanta, Georgia was rerouted through Boise, Idaho. We can’t help you with any of these problems but if you’re looking to buy a jet you’ve come to the right place, with the careful guidance and thoughtful insight of the gang from the AML Nation we’ll have you thundering down the runway in no time. Also “Hard Part” shows up to give us tips on getting that perfect photo in just over eight months using nothing but your phone. Grab yourself a big bowl of shredded flight schedules, a tall cool glass of melted mint flavored ice cream and enjoy!!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 189: NMRA's National - Gateway 2022 -
The old cliché of: if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again has never been more appropriate than for the gang of the NMRA’s 2020 convention. After the disheartening decision to cancel because of a worldwide pandemic and the subsequent cancellation of the national convention scheduled for Birmingham, England this group of tenacious volunteers has decided to pick up where they left off. Brad Joseph came by the AML studios to give us the low-down on what’s planned for the Gateway convention 2.0 and there’s no doubt this convention will be well worth the trouble of attending. Headquartered downtown at the Marriott St. Louis Grand with reasonable rates and an excellent location within walking distance to many of great attractions in the center of St. Louis this promises to be a first-rate affair. So get comfortable in your favorite chair, warm up the Motorola and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chats #2 -
It’s time for another fireside chat with the AML’s very own Tasmanian devil, you just never know what’s happening whether it’s featured on the cover of the latest edition of Model Railroad News, stopping by Phil Monat’s house for an operating session or helping little old ladies across street “Uncle” Dave is always on the move seeking out new adventures. There’s always plenty of philosophical discussion about the journey of life and on this podcast, we talk about Dave’s desire to start his on Patreon page in the hopes he might connect with even more folks from around the world, giving them a behind the scenes look at what makes the Onondaga Cutoff tick. So, grab yourself a big bowl of shredded Delaware & Susquehanna timetables, a tall cool glass of refreshing salt water from Boobyalla Beach and enjoy!!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Cocoa Beach RPM -
One of the most popular model railroad gatherings these days is any Railroad Prototype Modelers meet. (RPM) You can find these meets just about anywhere and they are open to all modelers, regardless of their abilities or interests. Most of the time these meets have plenty of vendors displaying their products, modular layouts, and large areas to display current and finished modeling projects. The Cocoa Beach, Florida RPM has been a popular destination of modelers for decades looking for relief from the winter and this year was a welcome relief from all the difficulties of Covid over the last two years. We sent our crack staff to interview some of the movers and shakers of the hobby in an attempt to keep our loyal listeners up to date with everything that’s occurred at least two months ago. So, sit back with a big bowl of beach sand, a tall refreshing glass salt water and enjoy !! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
ViewerMail Flight #90 -
You’re asking yourself, “I wonder how fast the Goodyear Blimp goes,” does it have two motors or three. You’ve decided it’s hard to keep track of what day it is, when you’re living in the past. Still trying to find an “Evel Overlord” action figure one of the hottest selling toys on the market today, your psychiatrist is convinced your imaginary podcast is just something you’ve invented for your imaginary friends to do. If none of this makes sense, you’ve come to the right place, as we try to understand the world we live in and look for reasons not to improve the show. It’s time now to a comfortable chair, grab yourself a big bowl of shredded ink-spots, a tall cool glass of imaginary hospital waste water and enjoy another exciting edition of ViewerMail!!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 188: Indy Junction 2022 -
The Midwest, Mid-Central, and North Central Regions of the NMRA along with the Chicagoland Railroad Prototype Modelers, are joining together this year to host Indy Junction 2022, an NMRA Tri-Regional Convention, in the beautiful city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Registration covers both the NMRA’s Tri-Regional convention as well as the RPM meet and is open to any and all modelers. Scott Kremer stepped up to the plate to chair this convention along with a capable group of volunteers, with reasonable hotel rates, clinics from both NMRA and Chicagoland RPM, over fifty layouts on a self-guided tour, this promises to a great convention with lots to do and see. This convention is AML certified and here’s a direct link to the convention website: https://www.indyjunction2022.org/ Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Uncle Dave's Fireside Chats -
What’s that you say… You’ve just picked up the latest edition of Railroad Model Craftsman only to find another cover story from our very own “Uncle” Dave Abeles. It’s a great article about interchange on the Onondaga Cutoff with the Minoa and Euclid. This eight page article takes an in-depth look at how much action a two or three car train can create when entering a major yard. But of course, there’s plenty of other discussion with topics ranging from what size t-shirt Dave wears, what constitutes a ruling grade, building what needs to be built in order to the get the job done and plenty of other topics as we wander through the button-downed mind of “Uncle” Dave. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded magazine wrappers, a tall cool glass of printers ink and enjoy !! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
All-Star Variety Hour #40 -
Have you ever wondered what’s it’s like to buy a gift certificate from Otter Valley Railroad, it’s easy, unless of course you’re the Evel Overlord who usually gets frustrated trying to purchase a quarter pounder at the local McDonald’s drive-through on a blustery Saturday afternoon. This edition of the “Variety Hour” features our favourite hobby shop owners, Lorne James who knows more cliché, buzzwords and more acronyms than anyone else in the hobby. We also hear from our much-loved NMRA president who’s quickly becoming known as simply “Gordy.” It’s a great discussion about how to connect the NMRA with so many others and how the community of model railroading is becoming as much about brotherhood as it is about the newest freight car release from your preferred manufacturer. So grab yourself a bowl of shredded hamburg wrappers, a tall cool glass of salt water from the North Atlantic Sea and enjoy!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Adventures With the "Average Don" -
You never know what you might find in a shed behind somebody’s house but if you’re ever in Sebastian, Florida and find a house with a red truck parked outside, you might want to check the shed out back. Just don’t go around the pool because the homeowner doesn’t care for that. We sent our special correspondent out in the field to look for just such a place and low and behold not only did we find the truck, but we also found a twelve foot by twenty foot shed with a fantastic model railroad in it. This is the latest edition of the Providence and Worcester build by our very own “Average” Don Irace, but the layout is anything but average. With a fantastic trackplan utilizing the space available, fantastic scenery, great trackwork and smooth-running locomotives this layout is something special. There’s plenty of interesting discussion with the AML Nation’s first visit to the shed so sit back with your favorite beverage and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 187: HomeShops.net -
We’re checking back in with Chris from Homeshops.net for progress report and to discuss the possibility of creating a PS-1 boxcar from the Allegheny and Lackawanna Southern. All of the cars that come HomeShops are manufactured by Tangent one of the finest freight car manufacturers out there. There’s also a rather long-winded discussion as Chris tries to school the Evel Overlord on the advantages of embracing social media and why the A&LS so desperately needs a Facebook page. Find yourself a comfortable seat, grab yourself a steaming hot bowl of shredded unnecessary discussion notes, a shot of your finest whiskey, (make it a double) and enjoy!!! Check out HomeShops here: https://homeshops.net/ Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Fans of the AML Part 47 -
The SuperBowl is over for another year, and this is the last year you’ll take “Kelly’s” advice on who pick for the winner. You need to take a photo of “Nigel” but the local drug store is all out of film. The speed boat in your basement got stuck in the stairway while selling it to an NHL scout, but you signed a contract to play defense for the New York Islanders. Still trying find just the right campground to solder up some LED’s and hoping Mick Shea sends you several hundred feet of golden track to go with your golden spike?? It’s another episode of the “Fans” filled with all sorts of life advice that might come in handy but probably not. Are you’re ready to waste another two hours of your life listening to the rag-tag crew of the AML Nation?? Grab yourself a big bowl of shredded thirty-five-millimeter film, a steaming hot mug of melted gold and enjoy!!! Link to the Don Irace on Tom Klimoski's website: https://www.thomasklimoski.com/blog-1 Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
All-Star Variety Hour #39 -
So you’ve watched “Uncle” Dave doing his Facebook live updates from the Onondaga Cutoff and can’t figure out how he manages to concentrate with all the action going on around him or wonder if he ever stops to catch his breath. Well here at the ole’ AML we’ve done some investigative reporting, digging up all the dirt that goes on behind the scenes with the help of our buddy Rich Wisneski. But wait there’s more… You’re wondering how it’s possible that Midwest Model Railroad is quickly becoming one of the premier hobby shops in the country and do they offer their customers fresh donuts on arrival?? It’s another great podcast, so grab yourself a big bowl of shredded take-out boxes, a steaming hot mug of electrons and enjoy!!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
Josh & George's Excellent Adventure !! -
You know those guys you love to hang out with but never sure that you’re from the same planet. The guys that always seem smarter than you because most of what they say goes right past you. The first guys out on the ice before you’re convinced it’s completely frozen… Those guys. This is our first visit with the dynamic duo from the sleepy little town of Belleville, Ontario, somewhere between Toronto and Montreal. The Mayor of Hornepayne and Josh, the design engineer from Rapido Trains who are here to tell us all about their trip to buy a sandwich just across the border in Quebec. If you’ve ever wonder what it’s like to ride a rubber-tired subway or experience the excitement of passenger train business class, you’ve come to the right place. So grab yourself a steaming hot bowl of day-old poutine, a tall cool glass of smoked meat grease and enjoy !! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Episode 186: Jerry Britton -
Have you ever ever wondered what would happen if you tried to power your layout using Mother Nature and 1.21 jigiwatts of electricity?? Well as we all know the first thing you’d have to do is change the flux capacitor, then carefully run some heavy-duty wire from the tallest tree in your backyard to a spot on your layout with the most electronic equipment and wait for the next thunderstorm coming down your street. It's only been a few short months since Mother Nature wreaked havoc on Jerry’s PRR Middle Division and with the AML Nation cheering him on and an unwavering determination, things are slowly getting back to normal. Find yourself a comfortable chair and get ready for an inspiring tale of one modeler’s perseverance to not let anything stand in his way of enjoying this great hobby. Enjoy!!! Click Here For the Free Download |
|
ViewerMail Flight #89 -
Once again, it’s time to answer our voluminous ViewerMail, put down that leaf blower, take a break from the snow and find out what’s happening across the AML Nation. Not sure how to spell a loved one’s name, still trying to figure the top speed of your favorite US Naval submarine, your snowblower is leaking more oil than ’59 Edsel?? We can’t help you with any of these problems but if you listen carefully, you’ll hear two hours of your life leaking from your body like a slow leak from a well-worn spare tire. Don’t try to fight it, don’t try to find value in it, we’ve all tried and there’s to be done but listen intently for just the bit of useful information while facing a big bowl of left-over sea rations, a warm glass of reclaimed small engine oil and enjoy!! Download This Podcast at: patreon.com/ModelersLife |
|
Martyn Jenkins and the NMRA Elections -
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be big man on campus, constantly worried if your hair is just right, which pretty girl to out with this week, the decisions would be endless?? Well, multiply those problems by a hundred and you get an idea of what it’s like to be the NMRA’s Director-at-Large. Martyn Jenkins has been doing a stellar job in this position for some time now and it’s time for re-election, so what stump is better to explain his vision for the future of the organization than right here at the AML Nation. Martyn has been a great supporter of the NMRA for decades and has decided to dedicate even more of his time to making it better. This is a great podcast with a great guy, so get comfortable in your favorite chair and find out what the future holds. Click Here For the Free Download |
