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The free AML shows are available at any of the podcatchers listed.
Click on the links below.
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More podcasts on our Patreon page!!!
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a ModelersLife is rated "marginally adequate" by 6 out of 10 doctors.
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AML Wins Prestigious jlwii2000 Award The ModelersLife family is the latest recipient of the 2018 jlwii2000 award for best podcast. Thousands of votes were cast and AML was the runaway winner. Longtime fan Jordan Kramer said, "this is the best thing ever." Ralph "Ralphie Boy" Renzetti said, "this day will live forever infamy." Bruce "the Mildly Agitated" Mailboy was ecstatic but unavailable for comment because of a flood in the basement. Thanks James Wright !!!! |
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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. |
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Recent Episodes:
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Kelly Questions: Brooks Willig -
Still wondering if you can buy an entire chess set at a pawn shop. Do vegetarians eat animal crackers, when does it stop being partly cloudy and start being partly sunny? Can’t stop wondering if it’s illegal to park beside a fire hydrant even when your car is on fire?? We can’t help you solve these problems but pull up a chair ringside as we introduce you to another exciting round of the Kelly Questions. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded cowboy boots, a tall glass of crude oil and enjoy!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #31 -
You’re so tired you need to take a nap tomorrow and can’t figure out why Friday is so far away from Monday but on Friday, Monday is only three days away. Plus you’re still trying to figure out why math can’t solve it’s own problems. You’d like to get lost in thought but it’s unfamiliar territory, you drank so much vodka last night you woke up with a Russian accent. You’d like to walk around looking as though everything is fine even when your socks are sliding off. Well we can’t help with any of these problems but we can help waste plenty of time listening to ViewerPosts. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded hockey socks, a warm mug of melted arena ice and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 120: Stephen Atwell -
What happens when you can’t get all the parts and pieces you need to build your dream N-Scale layout… Simple, you start a successful business called MidWest Model Railroad. Stephen and along with his mom, Alice and dad Gary decided to make the hobby more accessible to everyone with great prices and timely delivery. From the beginning they decided to keep the cost of operating their business to a minimum and pass the savings along to the individual modeler. It’s a great story and one I’m sure you’ll enjoy!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #21 -
Ever wonder what happened to Steven Segal… Naw, me neither but if you’re anything like me a trip to the virtual hobby shop is long overdue. The donuts are fresh the coffee is hot and a bunch of the regulars are ready to swap stories and answer questions. Chris Atkins wondered how much electronics is to much and before you know it all sorts of things were being discussed including a great description of ABS signals by our very own Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag. So grab yourself some Danish pastry, a steaming hot cup of joe and enjoy!!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Kelly Questions #50 Ron Marsh -
You still have questions about extra terrestrials that helped the stranded astronauts on Apollo 13?? Still not sure if your multiple choice answers on the grade ten geography test were correct?? Still wondering about the viability of turning Star Trek into a musical?? We can’t help with any of those questions but if you’ve ever wondered about what kind of super hero the host of Ron’s Trains and Things would be you’ve come to the right place. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded SATs, a tall glass of spent rocket fuel and enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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RPM East - Frascella/Adams -
This is a great podcast with tons of information about a variety of subjects. First we talk with Bob Frascella who’s managed to secure an interview with Mike Confalone and then Bob brings us up to date on all goings on with his S-scale Delaware & Hudson layout and his latest art projects. Then Kaylee Zheng fills us in on the RPM East meet a trip to Tom Jacobs, Crossline layout and an operating session at Chris Adams the AML’s official fit guy. Boston Joe was also at Chris’s place and helps describe the action on the Valley Local a branch line of the New Haven Railroad. So grab yourself a bowl of shredded paint brushes, a big glass of watered down artists pastels and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 119: Seth Gartner -
The HO scale Piney Fork Branch re-creates a New York Central branch line in eastern Ohio during the 1960s. This is a multilevel layout featuring an extensive steel-mill scene. An emergency room doctor by day and an avid model railroader at night, Seth as been in and around railroading since his boyhood days in Minerva, Ohio, about 50 miles southwest of Youngstown. This is a great railroad recently featured on the cover of the August, 2018 edition of Model Railroader Magazine. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #30 -
Still aren’t pleased with the tan you got from your last vacation, you’re convinced the travel agent sent you for seven fun filled days in Texarkana, Texas because he got a kickback from the Coors beer company. You can’t stop wondering if Adam Pinales is staying out of trouble or if Kaylee Zheng can keep the smoke from escaping. Did Bob Rusczyk get his precious cargo to Peter Borcherds, you’d love to meet the modeler simply known as “Speed.” Well stay tuned to find out if Super Dave is okay, if you qualify for a medal and what’s the difference between a firth, a delta and a mouth. Jump in your favorite lawn chair, get yourself a big bowl of shredded aluminum beer cans, a tall frosty mug of stale beer and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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AML All-Star Variety Hour #3 -
The weekend is over and you’re fill of great stories from the weekend, you went deep sea fishing only to realize the boat was in dry dock the whole time. You entered the world of competitive jig-saw puzzling and finished third when because you three of the pieces that looked bruschetta. We can help you relax from all the excitement by spending quality time with three of the hobbies most dynamic personalities, Tom Barbalet, Peter Borcherds and Ed Olszewski. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded life jackets, a big glass of melted propeller grease and enjoy !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ViewerPost Vacation Cruise #29 -
You need a vacation but you’re bank account looks like a breeding ground for zeros. You tried to find some part time jobs but nothing seemed to fit with your busy schedule of twice a day hot yoga classes. Desperate for some sun time on a beach in the Caribbean you opened a business cleaning the wheels of S-scale 34’ composite side hoppers but soon found out the competition was offering Kadee spring replacement for free derailing your holiday dreams. Well fear not, we may not be able to send you away to some beautiful resort on a private island but after listening to the latest version of ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise jamming your hand in the car door will seem like a dream come true. So grab yourself a bowl of deep fried beach sand, a tall glass of polluted pond water and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 118: Joey Guinto -
Follow the journey of a young boy as he discovers the joys of model railroading from his humble beginnings in Staten Island to the bright lights of Nashville. A professional musician, waiter and he can do your taxes while you wait, Joey’s interest in the hobby has been there since the beginning. He loves to weather rolling stock and if he’s not on stage or getting familiar with the ladies you’ll find him working on his latest project. So grab a tambourine, a harmonica or your favorite cigar box bass guitar and ready get to jam with Joey. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Springfield Interviews Part 3 -
Well that’s it for another year at the big train show in West Springfield, Massachusetts, just down the road from the Basketball Hall of Fame. Lots of interviews were done, a bunch of new friendships have been made. Great to see so many people that enjoy the podcast and it was fun hanging out with Jim Sacco again at his City Classics booth also known as the AML Studios on location. We talked to so many interesting people this year, I just can’t believe the hobby isn’t going to continue to flourish for years and decades and centuries to come. This is a great hobby with great people who have a desire to share a passion and past time that brings joy to so many around the world. So get yourself a big bowl of shredded 50/50 tickets, a steaming hot mug of boiler water and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Shane Show #6 -
It's been awhile since we’ve heard from the “Young Gun” so this seemed like as good a time as any to check in. Of course as always it wasn’t hard to fill up a couple of hours talking about all sorts of things but we managed to keep it to forty-five minutes. However as an bonus, turns out Shane and Tony Cook the editor of Model Railroad News had already done a great interview Chris Palomarez the brand manager at Athearn Trains. So grab yourself a big smoking bowl of crushed decoders, a steaming hot mug of melted soldering paste and enjoy !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Spoon & StraightBall -
Well they did it, they done went and got dirty. Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag and Andy “StraightBall” Dorsch have entered a weathering contest on the YouTube channel of Ron’s Trains and Things. So it’s up to the AML nation to support and vote for your favorite cast member in this historic showdown. In the tradition of those great Chicago mayoral elections remember to vote early and vote often. So grab yourself a hot steaming plate of shredded mail in ballots, a tall glass of North Branch Canal discharge and enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ViewerMail Flight #68 -
You accidentally emailed inappropriate photos to your boss and decided the best defense was to email the same thing to everyone you know and call it a virus. Your parents left for the weekend and you emailed them the invitation to your keg party by mistake. Martyn Jenkins won’t answer your emails because he’s to busy complaining about the heat in Australia. Ted the Wonder Dog ate your coat before you could get your fleet of N-Scale BNSF GG 1’s out of the secret pocket. Think about signing up for AML’s twelve step email program and before you know it you’ll be emailing like a pro. In the meantime grab yourself a big bowl of shredded ethernet cable, a tall glass of monitor cleaning fluid and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 117: Thomas Klimoski -
This podcast is about a retired fire-fighter from Miami living the quiet life in Georgia, Tom’s passion for model and prototype trains has been there most of his life, from the first Lionel set to his current layout, the Georgia Northeastern, model railroading has been a constant. Working part time for the Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad afforded him the opportunity to learn about prototype operations and focus on running a short line railroad. Many friends have helped with this great story that we’re sure you’ll enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Springfield Interviews - Part Deux -
It’s the second in our series of interviews from this years Amherst Railway Society train show in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Ron Klaiss of Mine Mount Models, Tom Jacobs and Reading Crossline, “Little” Mike Wichowski from Green Bay, Wisconsin. (home of the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field) We also talk with Eric Vandiver who discovered model railroading through the wonder of social media, Chris Adams with his New Haven modeling and finally Blaine Hadfield of Arrowhead Models in Sheridan, Wyoming. It’s a great series of interviews that we at the ole’ AML Network in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky are sure you’ll enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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AML All-Star Variety Hour -
Rob Arsenault takes his chances with the Kelly Questions, we take a trip out to New Jersey to find out what’s on the workbench of Ron Klaiss of Mine Mount Models and finally we check in with Joe D’Amato of Micro Trains as he tells us some excellent techniques for applying decals. So pull up a chair, grab yourself a tall glass of Solvaset, a big bowl of shredded damp backing paper and enjoy !!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Fans of the AML -
Chris Atkins, a regular AML contributor and resident of Argyle, Texas (home of the Fighting Socks) came up with what we think is a great idear, he started a group page on Facebook called Fans of a ModelersLife Podcast. As of this broadcast we’ve got over 150 members and growing fast, discussing and posting on all sorts of topics. It seemed like a fun idea to peruse the page with some of the AML regulars and it made for some entertaining, interesting discussion. We here at the ole’ AML world headquarters in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky look forward to many more podcasts about whatever is posted on the page. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded Facebook comments, a tall glass of computer screen cleaner and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 116: Otto Vondrak -
White River Productions is pleased to announce that Otto Vondrak, associate editor of Railfan & Railroad, is the new editor of Railroad Model Craftsman. The eighth editor of RMC, he’s a native of New York state and graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology’s (RIT) graphic design program. A lifelong model railroader, he’s a member of the National Model Railroad Association Northeast Region, and a co-founder of the RIT Model Railroad Club. We here at the ole’ AML world headquarters think Otto is a great choice for the position and look forward to what he’ll bring to this already great magazine. Congratulations Otto !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Vote for Gordy !! -
Gordy Robinson is young, enthusiastic and ready to make the NMRA the best he can be… Find out why right here. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Springfield Interviews #1 -
Stop the presses, hold the phone, put down your coffee and get ready to take notes, it’s time for some on the spot interviews from West Springfield, Massachusetts just down the road from the basketball Hall of Fame. This really big show features some of the many fans that stopped by the AML booth (formerly City Classics) at this years Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show. It was great to see so many fans of the podcast and even more fun to talk to them so get yourself a steaming hot bowl of Cyanoacrylate, a tall glass of Insta-set and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Springfield Review -
Another trip to Springfield is in the books, it was another great show with nine acres of model railroading to see in just two days. Now it’s time to find out from all your favorite AML characters what they saw, who they talked to and what they bought. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded Tyco hopper cars, a tall glass of re-useable hot dog water and enjoy !!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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the Atkins Diet #6 -
Once again it’s time to check in with our intrepid reporter as he spans the globe with his trusty sidekick Gert, “Speed,” “Jim” Muller looking for new and exciting layouts to operate. Chris needs little or no sleep as he knocks on doors, looks in garages or under your porch to find that elusive pike to sort car cards on. So jump on this whirlwind train if dare, order yourself a steaming hot plate of shredded waybills, a side salad of train orders, a tall glass of operators ink and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 115: Brooks Willig -
We first met Brooks about a year ago through an email we received at the ole’ AML headquarters. (It had fallen behind one of the filing cabinets.) He seemed like the perfect candidate for an interview, young, self motivated and dedicated to model railroading. This is an excellent interview exploring the many facets how life intertwines with this great hobby of ours and helps to strengthen the fabric of who we are as individuals. When he is not busy searching for Blue box models he’s running his business, Western Audio Works check out his website at: westernaudioworks.com Enjoy !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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X2F Files - Krauss Maffei -
Still wondering what those bright lights were last night above your house, your Aunt Mabel claims she was abducted by aliens on Tuesday and they took her ’79 Pinto wagon with them. You’re convinced Area 51 is nothing more than a cover for the real UFO’s in Area 73. This all sounds quite reasonable but be prepared to go back… Way back. It’s the latest edition of the X2F Files as we take a look back at some of the hits and misses from model railroading’s yesteryear with Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ProtoThrottle at Springfield -
Scott Thorton is on the road again spreading joy throughout the model railroading world with the new ProtoThrottle from Iowa Scaled Engineering. We managed to take Michael Petersen the builder of throttle away from the booth for a few moments for a quick insight. Enjoy!!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Paints and Air Brushes -
Hold on to your hat boys and girls Spoon’s been thinking again. There’s never a dull moment when our very own Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag starts the wheels of progress moving in the old grey matter. This time he was looking to save money by using craft paints and after some lengthy discussions we realized it was a podcast worth listening to. So get yourself a big hot steaming bowl of lacquer thinner, a tall glass of Floquil’s Grimy Black and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #28 -
You need a vacation, somewhere warm to go, someplace exciting, a new adventure. Well here at the ole’ AML Network that’s a no can do but we can help you waste an hour and a half of your life without even going outside. Come with us as we once again cruise the murky waters of your imagination and try to figure out why socks are shaped like the letter “L”. Grab yourself a big bowl of discarded train show hot dog wrappers, a tall glass of reusable fountain water and enjoy !!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Kelly Questions: Rounds 46 & 47 -
Bob Frascella and Joe Desmond decided to try their luck with one the most feared and treacherous series of questions known to mankind. Hermetically sealed in a mayonnaise jar which was left under the town of Alburtus on Tom Jacob’s layout in his 53’ X 86’ barn which is home to his 14 level multi-deck broccoli pike representing the Redding railroad. The answers will tug on your emotional heartstrings. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll even wonder why as these two brave souls take the plunge in an attempt to achieve the best score of all time against the carefully crafted and always entertaining Kelly questions. In other words sit back with a tall glass of celery juice, a big bowl of shredded layout plans and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 114: Brick Model Railroader -
Lego trains are definitely part of the model railroading community and BrickModelRailroader.com is quickly becoming an important representative by building the Lego train hobby one brick at a time. Lego trains constantly evolve and this segment of the hobby continues to grow. Many scale modelers are drawn to Lego trains and many folks are introduced to scale model railroading through the Lego trains. So sit back and enjoy another great podcast about another piece of this great hobby. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #27 -
Tired of watching ear wax removal videos, can’t seem to get your fanny packed?? Your pet moose got off it’s leash and wandered into the neighbors garden? You’re convinced Waldo is your long lost brother that’s been searching for you since 1973. Well we can’t help you with any of those problems but we can help you go to sleep while listening to the latest edition of ViewerPosts. So get yourself a big bowl of shredded plastic rail joiners, a tall glass of standing puddle water and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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AML All Star Variety Hour -
It’s an all star cast with Kaylee Zhang answering the Kelly Questions and Shawn Becher providing all sorts of interesting thoughts to ponder. Shawn’s segment was found under the soda machine in the cafeteria near the bouncy balls. After a brief investigation it would appear Shawn’s segment scheduled for an earlier virtual hobby shop show somehow was lost. If we hadn’t been power washing the office we’d would have never discovered Shawn’s on air segment jammed under a filing cabinet covered with green goo created when the model railroad hobby simply exploded. Enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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AML Product News January 19th -
All the news that is the news is right here at your fingertips thanks to our crack reporter Tony Cook – editor of Model Railroad News. Tony has risked life and limb traveling around the globe looking for the latest and greatest products helping to turn your dream pike into a reality. On this episode learn all about the evolution of using a forty foot box car for bulk transport to the development of covered hoppers and some of the new models available such as Tangent’s High Side Covered Hopper. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Layout Sides "Spoon's" Idear -
Which side of the tracks are you modeling?? This was a question our very own Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag posed while recovering from a sugar coma. After some lengthy meetings at the world headquarters of the AML Network in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky it was decided this might actually make for a good podcast. We know what you’re thinking… How long would take to solve a Rubik’s Cube while submerged in 1,000 gallon tank of maple syrup?? We can’t help with that but we did have a great discussion about which side of the tracks you’re modeling and how much selective compression is to much. So grab yourself a tall glass of pre-mixed modeling plaster, a big bowl of shredded feeder wires and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 113: John Sacerdote -
“Amherst Railway Society Railroad Hobby Show” the biggest model railroad show in North America, dating back to the‘60s when a group of students and faculty members from the University of Massachusetts hosted a swap meet on campus. In ‘82 they took a risk moving to the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. Fast forward almost 40 years where show president John Sacerdote and his tireless army of volunteers is ready for a crowd of 25,000 folks excited to see what’s new and different this year. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Joe & Peter United at Last -
Like all great love stories this one has a beautiful ending, we first learned about Joe Desmond and his great Conrail N-Scale layout from our very own Peter Borcherds during a break from his duties as an agent for MI-6. Like so many in today’s world they’ve created a friendship through the magic of social media, a love for model railroading and a keen desire to share their work via YouTube. It seemed only natural to have them on the podcast together, it’s all N-Scale all the time. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded Micro-Train freight cars, a warm mug of melted soldering paste and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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New Year's Eve 2018 -
I’ve met so many interesting people right here on the ole’ AML Network so we thought it’s the perfect time of year to find out what they’d like to see happen in the future. It’s a whole bunch of your favorite AML regulars wishing you all the best for the new year and talking about there hopes of a bright future for the hobby and people in general. So get yourself a big bowl of shredded party favors, a warm mug of leftover eggnog and enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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"Spoon" Fixes the Internet !! -
Until recently the phrase, “you’re cutting out,” was most used around the studio when Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag came into the studio. He’s spent hours and hours trying to fix it and finally the silky smooth sounds of AML’s favorite locomotive engineer are available for all our listeners to enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 112: Joe Fugate -
Once again it’s time for our annual state of the hobby and who better to determine the future of model railroading then the editor of Model Railroad Hobbyist. It’s a great podcast with Tony Cook, editor of Model Railroad News and Bruce “the moderately agitated” Mailboy as co-hosts. The potential for growth in the hobby has never been so exciting and Joe Fugate is eager to talk about that and a major life experience he’s recently encountered. Enjoy !!! This is a free podcast click here !! |
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Fine Scale Expo Review -
This is a popular gathering of modelers from all over the world looking to improve their skills and make new friends. This event is focused on professional, innovative and creative ideas making for an unforgettable experience. Fortunately for us Kaylee Zheng made her first visit to the Expo this year and is here to tell us all about it with her friend Lou Papineau. When they’re not making smoke at Tom’s Trains there usually checking out different layouts or trying to figure out how get home to Connecticut by heading north out of Albany, New York. Enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Kelly Questions: Greg Javonillo -
From deep in the heart of south, the “Big Easy” comes the true life story of out next victim … Errr… I mean, challenger. We first met Greg last year in Springfield at the big Amherst show, he’s an active member of the Crescent City Model Railroad Club and a great cook which isn’t a bad thing when you live in New Orleans. Enjoy !!! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #26-
You've decided to decorate your yard this Christmas with a giant inflatable bottle of ranch dressing and convinced that with just a few simple adjustments you could turn any banana into a phone. Your design for a kayak shaped like a log from a from a frozen Maple tree was turned down by Wal-Mart?? Sounds like you could do with a vacation and what better way to spend the holiday season than a nice relaxing voyage with your favorite deck hands and crew from the AML Cruise Lines. So find yourself a deck chair, grab yourself a tall glass of tree water, a bowl of shredded tinsel and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 111: Ed Olszewski -
Syracuse, New York is the economic and educational hub of central New York state, it’s also the home of our next guest who’s enthusiastically promoted the hobby of model railroading most of his adult life. Most recently using a small switching layout to introduce people of all ages to the hobby and actively recruit them for Central New York division of the NMRA. It’s all about hands-on experience for Ed and his crew as they travel to various train shows introducing people to the hobby. He’s a great supporter of the podcast with a great story so sit back with a tall glass of Congo beer, a big bowl of month old pretzels and enjoy. This is a free podcast click here !! |
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X2F Files Episode: 1 -
So you're convinced the X2F HO scale coupler was actually developed in exploratory labs located deep inside Sector 12 as an attempt to help the Guardians of the Universe protect future colonies. Let’s go back to 1957, Athearn’s HI-F Drive was gaining popularity through recent releases in their HO scale diesel line and the Hustler made it’s a glorious debut on to the model railroad scene gaining a solid foothold on many layouts and a place in model railroad history. This is the debut of a new series hosted by AML’s very own Tony Cook, a fountain of knowledge when it comes to the history of this great hobby and the editor of Model Railroad News. This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerMail Flight #67 -
The bacon quilt you made for your turkey at Thanksgiving is still stuck to the top of the roasting pan because you forgot to take it out of the package. You couldn’t make the 7-10 split to win the big frozen turkey bowling tournament, your wishbone turned out to be made of brass track from your weird friend Mike that models in S-scale. We probably can’t help you with any of these problems but here at the world headquarters of the AML Network in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky the turkey trot’s are beginning to settled down enough to once again answer are voluminous ViewerMail. So grab yourself a hot steaming cup of leftover turkey grease, a big bowl of shredded pie tins and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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NERPM Review -
Chris Adams and Kaylee Zheng review all the comings and goings at the North East Railroad Prototype Modelers meet in Enfield, Connecticut. There were lots of awesome presentations and free flowing exchange of good ideas. RPM Meets present an excellent opportunity for learning and sharing different techniques with some of the best in the hobby. So sit back, close your eyes and relax as we give you an audio tour of the NERPM Meet… Actually if you’re driving, keep your eyes open. This is a free podcast !! |
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Kelly Questions Rounds 42, 43 -
Still concerned about which color of black is best suited for your favorite Milwaukee Road Geep-9 locomotive, can’t decide how to weather the underside of the Northern Pacific’s 40’ double sheathed boxcar. Still convinced brown lettuce and tater tots is a good source of dietary fiber. We’re not able to help with any that so instead it’s time once again to discover what makes are guests tick with a series of hard hitting questions compiled by our crack staff in the basement of the local Moose Lodge. So get yourself a tall glass of luke warm weathering grime, a big bowl shredded fur and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 110: Ron Marsh -
Ever wonder what it’s like to be pastor of the First Baptist Church in El Dorado Springs, Missouri and still having time to become one of the rising stars in the dog eat dog world of model railroad video production?? It’s a never ending quest here at the old AML headquarters to fine the most interesting people in the hobby. Ron’s Trains N Things is a YouTube channel dedicated to sharing tools, tips and techniques as Ron Marsh guides you along the way towards a better layout. Ron’s easy on screen demeanor makes it a pleasure to follow along towards this next completed project. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #25 -
It’s time for a another relaxing vacation as we take you through the beautiful islands, crystal clear waters and muddy thoughts only our most unique listeners could provide. Life aboard the AML cruise ship it’s like nothing you could ever imagine so get comfortable in your special deck chair with a tall cool glass of fish oil, a big bowl of super sticky catfish bait and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Checking in With: Rob Arsenault -
It’s often said that weathering your locomotives and cars is essential to creating a realistic appearance for any model railroad. Rob is willing to admit he may never totally master it but to the naked eye he’s one of the premier weathering artists in the hobby. With customers all over the world in countries such as, Poland, Great Britain, Germany, Switzerland and Australia he’s setting the modeling world on its ear. This is an interesting update with an interesting personality who’s love for the hobby knows no bounds whether he’s railfanning or completing another weathering job on a priceless model. Enjoy. This is a free podcast !! |
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Kansas City Interviews #3 -
We've checked all the boxes, walked all the aisles, looked in every booth and found some of the most interesting and charming people at the National Train Show in Kansas City. Hundreds of thousands of square feet with thousands of model railroaders under one roof makes for a great podcast and hopefully after listening to this you’ll be able to find one. It’s great fun talking to so many exhibitors and people in the hobby, hopefully you’ll enjoy listening to them as much as I enjoyed talking to them. So get yourself a tall glass of warm recycled fountain water, a big bowl of shredded hot dog wrappers and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Episode 109: Phil Monat -
Broadway meets railway, it’s the Delaware and Susquehanna a proto-freelanced railroad loosely based on the Lehigh Valley. It’s all about operations with plenty of run through traffic and high pressure yard-master jobs. The CTC machine requires an experienced operator to keep the whole thing moving. There’s lots of discussion about operations, operating sessions on other railroads and the Operations Special Interest Group. So sit back with a big bowl of shredded car cards, an ice cold glass of operator sweat and enjoy. This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News, November 2nd -
It’s time once again for product news with our intrepid reporter Tony Cook editor of Model Railroad News and HO Collector Quarterly. He searched all of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and discovered Walthers has their new F-7 A&B units. It’s the fastest five minutes in model railroading with train show announcements, open houses and trivia questions. All you need now is a lawn chair, a bowl of shredded magazines, a tall glass of spilled diesel fuel and a chance to enjoy this once in a lifetime podcast. This is a free podcast !! |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #20
You just tried it on your new cow costume for the big Halloween party but you’re utterly disappointed by the way it fits. Your idea of carving your pumpkin into the shape of an S-scale SD 40-2 using an HO scale knife got derailed and I thought of spending another Halloween by yourself leaves you feeling disenchanted. Well we can’t help you figure out how to make yourself the most popular kid on the block but if you’re looking for a podcast with information about modular hose, positive train control, LED light panels, affordable equipment, Northern Pacific Historical Society, or how to take that perfect photo for the next division meet. We may be able to help you, so grab yourself a bowl of pumpkin seeds, a big mug of hot candle wax and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Young Guns: the Future of the Hobby-
The future of model railroading is upon us and we’re fortunate enough to have three of its brightest stars right here on this podcast. Kaylee Zheng a well known clinician, Jordan Kramer and Shane Mason associate editor at Model Railroad News, stop by to give us their take on where the hobby’s headed. Then it’s an interview with Ron Klaiss (sounds like nice) about his new company manufacturing high quality, easily assembled, laser cut kits. Ron gives us some insight as to why he started the company and what he’s hoping to accomplish in the future. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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Kansas City Interviews: #2
Talk, talk, talk that’s what we do here at the old AML studios and that’s what we did in Kansas City. Everything from throttles to railfanning is covered in this show, there’s more people in the room than you can jam into an empty subway car on New York City’s busy “L” train. There so many vendors and so many people at the NMRA National Train Show it’s hard to decide which way to turn next but that’s never stopped us before as we seek out the most interesting and dedicated model railroaders from around the world. So pull up a chair with a tall glass of flat soda, an overpriced snack and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/Modeler |
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Andy Dorsch: Ceiling Wars -
What happens when a century-old house that’s going to become home to one of the greatest model railroads ever built, has a low ceiling and a furnace that could easily rival the “clinker” from Christmas Story. This is a story of one man’s struggle to single-handedly change the appearance of his basement ceiling. ”Straightball” discusses all the options he’s explored and reveals what some of the early results of his efforts have produced. In the end you’ll surely realize as I do that when Andy sets out to do a job he Kilz it. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News October 19th-
Looking for a new book to read, Northern Pacific refrigerator cars are on your wish list, Budd cars and trivia questions keep you awake at night?? It’s all right here during the fastest five minutes in model railroading with Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook. Spanning the globe to bring you the most important news of the day and keep you more informed than a air traffic controller at Chicago’s busy Midway Airport eating a Philly cheese steak. This is a free podcast !! |
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Kansas City Interviews #1 -
It’s time once again for on the road interviews, this time our intrepid reporter has found himself NMRA’s national convention in Kansas City, Missouri. Equipped with his trusty digital recorder it’s time to eat the mic as he walks the floor of the convention center looking for his next victim… Errr… I mean guest. Whether you’re Morgan Pavia a border patrol agent for the United States government, a newest employee and ScaleTrains.com or Blaine Hadfield this just started his brand-new freight car company in can’t escape exposing your deepest darkest secrets right here on the AML Network. So sit back with a tall cool glass flat soda, a two day old roller dog and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 108: Joe Desmond -
I know what you’re thinking, what would it be like to model the Conrail Railroad in Central New Jersey in the year 1988?? Well you’re in luck, thanks to a thorough investigation by our crack staff (Peter Borcherds) we’ve discovered Conrail is alive and well in N scale. Joe has done a marvelous job of modeling and documenting his journey building a quality model railroad intended for operations. With over 3000 YouTube subscribers, the scenery started and major construction complete it makes for a great interview. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #24 -
Still no luck trying to shed those unnecessary pounds?? Well maybe we can help with Tony Cook’s new book, “the Mexican Coke Diet” watch that extra tonnage just melt away on this miracle weight loss program. (Not necessarily approved by the FDA) Can’t decide whether to build an HO-Scale five level mushroom layout or an N-Scale hollow core door layout, convinced you’re the perfect candidate to head up AML’s new Foley department. Waiting for the ModelersLife Ice Show featuring the Joe Cummings skaters. Not sure if your favourite podcast is sucking rather than blowing. Enjoy the show and remember… It’s a dog eat dog world out there and you’re wearing Milkbone underwear. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Proto Throttle is Born -
It’s the most realistic throttle for operating model railroad diesel locomotives with controls that feel and perform just like the prototype. At least that’s what I was told but once we got our hands on this product we were convinced. Scott Thornton had an idea and the boys at Iowa Scaled Engineering decided to make his dreams a reality. This is a behind the scenes look at how it all began with comments from some of the operators who were amongst the first to take this amazing product out for a spin. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News October 5th -
Spanning the globe to bring you the latest news in the world of model railroading, our Tony Cook has thousands of miles at his own expense to keep us all up to date. Accurail’s special Trainfest release, Broadway Limited’s newest N scale locomotive, Menard’s exclusive train sets from Bachman, Precision Design’s newest decals, upcoming train shows, it’s all here in one convenient package. Don’t forget to check out the latest Model Railroad News and enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerMail Flight #66 -
Once again it’s time to answer our voluminous amounts of mail ViewerMail coming in from all corners of the earth. Still can’t decide which cat video on the internet is your favorite, disappointed that Facebook thinks your favorite memories are to boring so they show somebody’s else’s life on your page. Still can’t figure out why the host of your favorite YouTube talk show wears two pairs of glasses at the same time, you lose sleep at night trying to figure out if Mike Budde will ever be DCC ready. We answer those questions and more as “Boston” Joe Cummings and Tom “the Mushroom” Jacobs ripped open the viewer mail hoping for a prize made especially for them. So get yourself a big bowl of traded eyeglass frames, a steaming hot mug of barbecued ribs grease and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 107: Robert Frascella -
What does a guy from Boston, Massachusetts and a guy from Green Bay, Wisconsin have in common? Not much until they found out they were the only two guys in S scale. It’s another great example of how this hobby brings people from all walks of life together. A locomotive engineer from CN and a civil engineer with the career spanning over four decades have created a great friendship based on model railroading. Plus, we learned that if you spend enough time in a Wendy’s restaurant you can get just about anything accomplished. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #19 -
Just when you thought nothing made sense it’s time for the boys of the AML Network to confuse you even more. Stay tuned as we dive right into the middle of a bidding war, learn all sorts of info about Geep locos and talk sound and speakers. Then Bruce Kelly (the original SuperFan) and “Boston” Joe Cummings test out some new recording software and bring us up to speed about all the goings on at the NMRA National Convention in Kansas City. So get yourself a big bowl of shredded auction cards, a tall glass of liquid hotel waste and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Memories of Stewart -
This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #23 -
You were pulled over for speeding while walking your dog, you still can’t figure out why Iowa Scaled Engineering is in Colorado? You call Pizza Hut to get the number for Dominos?? Your cardboard car doesn’t handle very well in the rain?? You’re afraid to save too many files on your laptop because it will become too heavy to carry. Well once again we here at the ole’ AML Network are proud to admit we can’t help you with any of these problems but we’re confident that if you listen to the latest version of ViewerPosts you’ll realize we are in capable of assisting you with anything. So sit back with a big bowl of shredded poker chips, a tall glass of used crankcase oil and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 106: Rob Arsenault -
WeatherMyTrains.com is a website I hadn’t even heard of until just shortly before it was suggested to me that the owner would make an excellent interview for the podcast. With a worldwide customer base that's steadily growing, Rob is a fine artist with more than 40 years experience producing aviation art, rail art and more recently quality weathering on model railroad locomotives and cars. With a PhD from the school of “Hard Knocks” the goal is to make today’s premium fine scale models even better with realistic weathering techniques and quality sound. This is a great interview with tons of useful information Rob graciously shared with everyone at the AML Network. This is a free podcast !! |
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"Spoon" Goes on Vacation !! -
Have you ever wondered what the rotation speed of a Boeing 737 is or why you’d fly on Southwest Airlines when traveling to the north east?? Maybe you just need to understand the overabundance of shoulder less roads in the Boston, Massachusetts area. Our favorite locomotive engineer Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag takes us on a whirlwind tour of railroading in the Boston area, searching for fellow S-scalers, traveling on quiet cars, electric locomotives and Tom Jacob’s very own “Crossline” railroad. It’s all here in one convenient package, so sit back and relax as we take you on the trip of a lifetime. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Kelly Questions: Jerry Britton -
Still trying to decide between crunchy and smooth peanut butter, your router keeps giving you different directions to your bedroom, Alexa refuses to play any of your favorite Kiss Cover band songs. We can’t help with any of that but we can help you become comatose as you listen to Jerry Britton try his hand at answering the Kelly questions. Enjoy. This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product news Sept. 7th -
Spanning the globe to keep you informed of the latest developments in model railroading. Tony Cook editor of model railroad news once again has tirelessly searched out all the new products that you need to know about. Each product has been carefully tested and selected in our secret labs on the outskirts of Busted Knuckle, Kentucky. We can’t tell you the exact location but local transit makes regular stops just tell the driver you’re looking for the AML underground lab. Enjoy !!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Kelly Questions: Tony Cook -
So you can’t be bothered watching the annual Tony awards from the Great White Way in New York, New York, the town so nice they named it twice. Don’t worry we have something that isn’t even comparable and a lot less important. We’ll be asking all those hard-hitting questions you wanted to ask your favorite magazine editor. Plus we finish up with the last interviews from the second annual AML picnic. Just when you thought you couldn’t stuff and one more hotdog in your mouth, we’ve brought out the brownies. So sit back with a big bowl of old shredded trophies, a tall glass of cold hot dog water and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 105: Greg Javonillo -
Our next guest typifies what this hobby is all about. I met Greg at the Amherst train show in Springfield, Massachusetts. I was standing outside Jim Sacco’s City Classics booth when he walked up and introduced himself. He was in his mid 30s, enthusiastic, cheerful, spoke right up and before I knew it we were having a very pleasant conversation because we’re model railroaders I’d never met. Originally from the north east he’s now a full-time resident in New Orleans and he gave us a very good description of the model railroading community in that part of the world. This is a great interview. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #18 -
Everything you need for that drive to and from work is right here in one convenient package. Want to talk about resin car kits?? No problem, we have that covered. Want to know what happened at the second annual AML picnic?? No problem, we’ve got that covered too. You’ve been wondering what would be like if Blair Kooistra tried his hand at the “Kelly Questions??” Well then, you’ve come to the right place. This may be the only podcast you’ll ever need for the rest of your life, it’s chock full of all sorts of interesting people, information and life-changing opinions. So sit back with a steaming hot mug of freight car resin, a big bowl of shredded film canisters and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #22 -
Almost fell off your chair when you discovered the shape of a Pringles potato chip is actually a hyperbolic paraboloid instead of being fashioned after Roy Rogers favorite saddle. You’ve decided the best way to get rich is to open a McDonald’s on the one continent they have yet to conquer. When you’re not deep in thought and you need something to stimulate your brain we have no idea how to help you but we can make the next ninety minutes of your life a complete waste of time simply by listening to the latest cruise. Good luck, you’re going to need. This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News, August 24th -
Are you ready? Once again it’s time for all the news that is the news as we search the globe for all the latest model railroad scuttlebutt carefully analyzed, scrutinized, examined and dissected by are very own Tony Cook editor of the Model Railroad News. Tony has driven mile after mile in his 1995 Pearl Red Cadillac Eldorado looking for the most important pieces of information you need to create at classic Chicago and Northwestern “Marsh Line” layout. Enjoy !! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise: 21 -
So you’ve been forced to take a grueling holiday in the south of France, you wear your sunglasses indoors just to be cool, you’re walking around with a photo of your head on a stick or you’ve decided the best way to get home is via Frankfurt, Germany?? If any of the above applies to you it’s time to take a break from your demanding life. Whether you’re on the road in Alaska, still convinced the shortest way to Australia from Kansas City is through Las Vegas or searching for another BOD meeting to sit through, we’ll make it all seem like Shangri-La in less than two short hours. Enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 104: Kaylee Zheng !! -
I’ve heard the name Kaylee Zheng for a few years now, so when we finally met at this year’s Springfield Show it seemed obvious she needed to be introduced to all the AML listeners. Her clinics about using cell phone speakers producing quality sound in scale locomotives are already legendary. She originally moved to the Hartford, Connecticut area to support her beloved Whalers of the NHL only to find out they’d left decades earlier. When she’s not working on the latest decoder install or building her layout you can always find her at Tom’s Trains. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Patterson and Friends !! -
I know what you’ve been asking yourself, what’s it really like behind the scenes at Ken Patterson’s massive studios in downtown St. Louis, Missouri?? Recently I had the opportunity to visit with Ken and the gang from his popular YouTube show, “What’s Neat This Week.” As well as an in depth interview with the man himself, I was able to sit down and interview all your favorites from the show and really discover what makes it tick. Joshua Barton fed us some great barbecue from his Sugar Fire restaurant. This episode of “a ModelersLife” is really smoking. Enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Mid-Atlantic RPM !! -
RPM meets are becoming more and more popular and the Mid-Atlantic RPM is no different. Started just a few short years ago in 2013 this gathering of modelers on the East Coast, everyone from beginners to advanced modelers interested in accurately recreating their favorite prototype will find plenty of interesting things to do. Well-known model railroad author Bernie Kempinski tells us about two days of clinics, displays, networking and camaraderie. There’s lots of to do with some specialized vendors, operations and open houses to guarantee a great time will be had by all. Make sure to mark this great event on your calendar. This is a free podcast !! |
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Industry in Chaos !! -
Factories are closing, retailers are being affected, the future doesn’t look very bright for some companies. We’d like to tell you we have all the answers but we do have points of view and an interesting history have how China became the hub model railroad manufacturing. It’s interesting hour discussing some history of the hobby in the eighties and nineties and how we got to where we are today. Tony Cook the editor of Model Railroad News Is absolutely an encyclopedia of information every model railroader or should. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 103: Blaine Hadfield -
After years in a hobby building quality models for ExactRail, Blaine Hatfield has decided to strike out on his own for a brand-new company called Arrowhead Models. This interview was done after Blaine and his family moved to Sheridan, Wyoming before announcing plans for his new company. As always he was a great interview with lots of insight into the hobby which I’m sure you will enjoy. This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News, August 3rd -
Spanning the globe to bring you the latest in model railroad news is your favorite magazine editor Tony Cook. Ever wondered which railroad purchased the most GP-9’s, are you curious to find out the latest offering from Walthers or if there’s a train show coming to a town near you?? All this and more is right here on the latest addition of product news. So get yourself a big glass of grease remover, a big bowl of shredded battery cables and enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #17 -
Each year the NMRA hosts a national convention where members can meet up and renew old friendships. There’s always tons of helpful clinics, layout tours, and prototype tours to keep everybody busy, plus at the end of the week there’s a three day train show. So here is your favorite play-by-play analysts to discuss the upcoming events. Listen to your AML favorites get ready for the time of their lives as they travel from far and wide just to see what’s going on. Enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #17 -
The second annual AML barbecue is now history, trains were watched, burgers were eaten, watermelon was sliced and fun was had by all. It was an all-day event, with fans from all over, New Jersey, Florida, Missouri, Massachusetts, Wisconsin and beyond. Next up is the NMRA national convention and who better to chat with than our very own Peter Borcherds traveling all the way from England to join in the festivities. The family gets bigger and bigger, so pull up a chair and enjoy !! Photo by: Tony Cook Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Conversations With Bruce #4 -
Feeling left out, your imaginary friend just stole your imaginary girlfriend. Well you’re in luck because Bruce wants to have a conversation and all of us here at AML world headquarters went out for coffee and forgot to tell Superfan #1. This is your chance to bond with the creator of the “Kelly Questions” and find out how to become the president of your club. So get yourself a big bowl of shredded business cards, a steaming hot mug of Eye Vee fluid and enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #19 -
Here it is once again, it’s time to pack up your luggage ship the kids off to the grandparents, take your dog to the kennel and get ready for another romantic ViewerPost Vacation Cruise. There’s nothing like a beautifully romantic sunset cruise aboard a rusting railroad barge headed up river to the steel mill. So treat yourself and the little woman to something special and get yourself a seat near a leaking covered hopper full of corrosive acid for a trip you won’t soon forget. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Just a Meaningless Show -
Ever wonder what the guys talk about when the record button hasn’t been activated?? Well now’s your chance to find out. Estate auctions, speeders with turntables, Suydam Models, the June issue of Model Railroad News, RS-11’s, trade tariffs and Mystery shirt guy. These are just a few of the subjects covered in a podcast about nothing. These subjects and more are discussed when Tony Cook, Mike Ostertag, Bruce Kelly, Chris Atkins, and Ralphie Boy Renzetti gather together around the toolbox to solve the world’s problems. Enjoy. This is a free podcast !! |
Product News July20th, 2018 - Stop up the presses and check the ticker tape, it’s time once again for AML product news with your favorite world traveler and all-around good guy Tony Cook.
This is a free podcast !!
This is a free podcast !!
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BBQ Pre-Game Show - Once again it’s time to load up the truck, fill the cooler with soda, pack up the burgers, buy the foot longs and forget the mustard or relish. It’s time to turn the five second rule into the two minute drill as we get ready for another fun day of real fanning and hot dog eating. Once again for the AML Annual BBQ is here with all the best analysis and plays to watch for with your favorite panelists on the Pre-Game show. This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerMail Flight #65 - time once again for our voluminous ViewerMail. Still tired of licking email envelopes, you’re convinced that poor penmanship is a sign of higher intelligence, you ordered a bee farm from your local wholesaler and watched it buzz off as it got to the end of your cul-de-sac. Well cheer up my friend, another heaping pile (of mail) has just arrived from AML headquarters in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky. So get yourself a big steaming hot mug of used pasta water, a big bowl of shredded political protest signs and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 102: the Berlin Sleeping Car -
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own a full size passenger car?? We found just the man to answer all your questions, Kevin Moore of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been playing with full-size railroad cars for decades. The Berlin sleeping car is one of the most magnificent private passenger cars on the rails today. Built by Pullman for the Union Pacific during the 1950’s, the 11 room sleeper was originally named the “Lake Placid.” So jump on board and enjoy another exciting episode of a ModelersLife. This is a free podcast !! |
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Shane Show #5: KC Here We Come!! -
What’s are those flashing lights, how many installs have you done, what are the blue red and yellow tracks? Do you have any more thoughts on the Proto Throttle, what about rail fanning with Peter Borcherds in Kansas City?? It’s only a few weeks until the NMRA convention in Kansas City and we’ve decided it was time to check in with Shane “the Young Gun” to find out if he’s ready. Are we going to have enough time to do all the things we want to do? Find this out and more has “the boys” get ready for the big dance. So get yourself a tall glass of water from the Missouri River, a big bowl of half eaten ribs and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Checking Inn: Smokin' Joe D'Amato -
You’ve been asking yourself, “so what’s new at Micro Trains?” Or better yet, what’s Smokin’ Joe been up to? One of the most interesting people we’ve ever talked on “ModelersLife” has come back for a visit. You won’t be disappointed as Joe covers just everything from Z-scale to a booming hobby with sales that are unprecedented. He talks about the advantage/disadvantage of preorders, the quality of the models available today and it’s all done with that endearing Smokin’ Joe delivery. So sit back with a nice tall bubbling glass of warm resin, a big bowl of rejected freight car wheels and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Kelly Questions: Rounds 36-37-38 !! -
It’s time once again for another exciting round of the, “Kelly Questions.” Three innocent bystanders donned the tin foil helmet and allowed themselves to be strapped into the chair while doing their best to answer all of the questions in a fair and honest manner. There’s no doubt that by the end of this podcast Mike Wichowski, James Mattern and Jason Quinn will seem like old friends you could easily borrow $20 bucks from. So sit back with a big bowl of shredded wire casing, a tall frosty glass of air conditioner condensation and enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Andy Dorsch Part 2 !! -
More fun times from our man in Ripon, Wisconsin with a optimistic outlook on the NMRA. Lots of great insight and positive thoughts about what’s right with the organization. You can always count on Andy to show us a cheerful take on the world and this time is no different. Plenty of introductions come with this episode, so this is just the right tonic for that queasy stomach or sore throat when you need to take your mind off your troubles. We here at the old AML headquarters realize the previous sentence makes little sense but we ran out of things to say, so enjoy the podcast. Add your own smiley face here!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #20 -
Your pet flamingo has escaped and is living happily ever after in Argyle, Texas using the fake name Daniel. Turns out going to the bank wearing a smiling emoji mask wasn’t as funny as you thought it would be. Your name is Andy and the old lumber you’re using to build your new layout is from the support beams in your grandma’s house. Well we can’t help you with any of these problems but we can guarantee that the next 90 minutes will be some of the most unproductive time you spend this month. So grab yourself a big cool glass of recycled watermelon juice, a big bowl of shredded onion skins and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 101: Bob Sprague -
A lifelong model railroader, who enjoys track planning while becoming a fan of railroad prototype modeling. Trying to replicate the appearance and operations of real railroads as accurately as possible in miniature presents some interesting challenges. Few modelers have enough space to reproduce prototype track layouts with the distance required. Bob says half the fun of it is creating a track plan capturing the essence of a prototype in a manageable space is unique to every plan and layout builder. With almost 100 layouts plans featured on his website: bobstrackplans.com and a wealth of knowledge about the hobby you’ll be glad we decided to interview Bob. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Andy Dorsch Part #1 -
Whether or not you’re tearing down a layout, building a new one, creating another video with all sorts of tips and techniques or just planning out the next great layout, there’s a good chance our man Andy has already beat you to the punch. For the next two weeks we’re going to catch up with Andy Dorsch before he embarks on the journey towards completion of his first large layout. Through the wonders of digital media we’ll be able to follow along as he prepares the room, builds the bench work and completes the main line on his version of Chicago and Northwestern’s Marsh line. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #16 -
This is epic, two hours of the finest podcasting ever to hit the digital airwaves. Never mind what the subject is, by the time you’re finished listening, the sound of a screeching cat in the middle of the night will sound like heaven sent relief. But if you do make it all the way to the end you’ll have heard about steam locomotives, turnouts, tractive effort and the Railroad Prototype Modelers. So get yourself a cool glass of boiler water, big bowl of coal dust and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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the Picnic Show -
It’s time to get ready once again for the annual AML picnic. When planning such a massive undertaking as this you’ve got to call in your crack staff. Unfortunately we don’t have a cracked staff but we were able to get three of Wisconsin’s most prolific barbecue planners. We’re ready to go, we’ve got Badger Burgers, Ripon’s finest hot dogs, buns and condiments what else do you need for a great day of train watching in Rochelle Illinois. This is a free podcast !! |
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All About Otto -
I know what you’re thinking when are we going to get to hear from Otto Vondrak again? Well you’re in luck, we have three separate segments that we’ve pieced together into one spectacular Otto extravaganza!! So sit back with a tall cool glass of leftover beer, a boxer last week’s donuts and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 100: Tom Barbalet -
Well we made it, 100 episodes!! What a great journey this has been and it all started with the host of Model Rail Radio, Tom Barbalet so we decided who better to chat with almost four years later but the man himself. Tom is a great sport and a supporter of the show so what started out as a thirty minute interview ended as an hour and a half conversation. Thanks Tom and it won’t be long until we’re talking to you on episode 200. Enjoy!! |
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ViewerMail Flight #64 -
You’re upset because your cat “Fang” knows who’s going to win the World Cup but will only tell “Ted the Wonderdog” until you guarantee her a nonstop diet of fresh fish. You’ve taken a trip to Scotland to visit all the grocery stores but been arrested for walking with cows while under the influence. Well we can’t help you with these problems but we can certainly help you waste the next ninety minutes of your life with another exciting edition of ViewerMail. So sit back for the steaming hot bowl of haggis, a refreshing mug of Heather Ale and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Mike Deverell Part 4 -
Stop the presses, shout it from the mountain tops, let everyone know at long last it’s here. The final part of twenty-seven part Mike Deverell trilogy. Mike discusses his involvement with NMRA video program and how much he's learned from others and how much he enjoys the connections he’s made through the hobby. |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #18-
You’re convinced the best way to work on your year round tan is to be stranded on a deserted island with your favorite basketball Wilson. You just ordered a pizza because you’re hoping the delivery guy to kill a spider the size of a Buick. Still hoping Doritos will announce their newest flavor sausage and mayo ?? We can’t help with any of these problems but if you are prepared to patiently listen, we can help you waste the next ninety-two minutes and twenty-six seconds of your life. So sit back with a big bowl are Shredded potato chip bags, a nice cool glass of leftover puddle water and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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AML Product News - June 8th.
All the news that is the news is right here at your fingertips thanks to Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook. From Walters to Athearn, Tony has once again travelled the globe searching out just what you need to know to enjoy the hobby to it’s fullest. And as always, please remember… Only you can prevent forest fires. This is a free podcast !! |
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Springfield Interview: Kaylee Zheng
What is there to say about Kaylee Zheng that hasn’t been said already. I first heard about her from my friend “Ralphie Boy” Renzetti who couldn’t say enough positive things, so I decided if I got the chance at Amherst she would be an absolute must interview. The popular clinics discussing sound in scale model locomotives are some of the best out there and talking to her in person was just as much fun as I had hoped it would be. So sit back and relax with a big bowl of shredded ear protection, a steaming hot mug of lip balm and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 99: Adam Pinales -
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your dad owned a hobby store?? Just imagine what a podcast would be like if you interviewed somebody who is currently a conductor on the California Zephyr, building a live steam railroad around his house, a fantastic N scale layout and a garden railroad all at the same time. That guy would be Adam Pinales from Utah, another great find for the AML network and a fun interview to listen to. The only advice we can offer is to pay attention because you just don’t know what’s going to be said next. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Checking Inn: Marty McGuirk
It’s been quite a while since we talked to Marty so it’s time to check in and see what’s been happening. He removed the most recent version of his beautiful Central Vermont layout after he and his wife decided it was time to build a new basement. Whether it’s keeping his blog up-to-date, planning a new layout, trips to IKEA or just figuring out the shortest commute to his job in the nation’s capital, he’s always busy. And remember, November has always been Marty McGuirk month here at the old AML network. Enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Springfield Interview: Moloco Trains -
Another in our continuing series of Springfield Train Show interviews, we stopped by for a quick chat with Nick Molo about his company and his excellent models. Moloco Trains is the creator of high quality HO scale freight car models. Since its beginning in 1996 and continuing today Nick Molo has produced a strong line of ready to run rolling stock. His extensive background in industrial design tool making has enabled him to generate some of the most sought after models today. As always it was fun to chat with somebody else in the in the industry, so please enjoy this conversation at your earliest possible convenience. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #15 -
Still hoping to get that shark hat for Father’s Day, wish your beer holding hat came with a mullet wig? Can’t wait to try out your new pizza towel, you’re convinced Tabasco flavored whiskey is your road fame and fortune. Where we can’t help you with any of that but it’s time to get excited at the end of the month as we bring you another exciting episode of Virtual Hobby Shop. But wait this one is different and the only way you can find out why, is to take a listen. So sit back what’s a giant bowl of flavored dust, a steaming hot mug of linseed oil and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Arrowhead Models: Blaine Hatfield -
Blaine Hadfield is launching a new company manufacturing high-end freight cars as he describes what it takes to get started and we’re there on the ground floor to hear all about it as Blaine opens the doors on the latest exciting adventure in his life. Blaine’s commitment to customer satisfaction will be second to none, relying on his experience from ten years in the industry giving the model railroad consumer more than what they’ve paid for. With an emphasis on information about the product and real-time delivery it’s obvious Arrowhead Models is going to have an impact. This is a free podcast !! |
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AML Product News - May 25th.
It’s time once again for the another episode of the wildly popular AML Product News. You’ve told all your friends, you’ve told all your neighbors, you’ve even told grandma this is the one show she doesn’t wanna miss. So put down your glue gun stop work on that Santa Fe resin box car kit and hang onto your hat for the most informative podcast on the Internet. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Springfield Interview: Rob Williams -
What happens when a first timer comes to Springfield?? This is the heart warming story of a young man from Harper’s Ferry on his first visit to North America’s largest model railroad show. It’s overwhelming, there’s so much stuff, so many people. Rob managed to find us and give a great description of what it was like to attend the show for the first time. Enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 98: Tony Cook - The host of AML’s Product News, editor of Model Railroad News, editor of HO Collector and associate editor of Railroad Model Craftsman. He’s one of the hobby’s most significant journalists, spanning the globe to bring you the constant variety of model railroading. Completely relaxed in front of the microphone Tony’s one and only true love is the Lincoln Continental and preferably the Mark IV. Enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #17 -
Still waiting for your invitation to the royal wedding, you’ve decided to name your favorite sneakers Yammy and Laurel. You’re convinced those unfinished kits are an indication of just how much you can’t accomplish when you put your mind to it. It’s time for another out of body experience listening to ViewerPosts brought to you by your favorite extraterrestrials. So sit back with the big bowl of discarded glitter and a steaming hot mug of rocket fuel and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Springfield Interview: Terry Terrance
An avid O Scale railroader, electronics wiz, convention organizer and general all round great guy Terry Terrance has been busy on his layout since retirement from Sikorsky Helicopters. He typifies what this podcast is all about, model railroading and the people behind it.Now he’s busy helping to organize the National O Scale convention in Washington, DC. But he still found time to stop and chat with us at Springfield. Enjoy!!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Take the Train to Kansas City -
Take your own private railcar to the NMRA convention with deluxe rail service on board Kevin Moore’s premier BERLIN sleeping car from Chicago to Kansas City this summer. We’ve added facts to our website describing in detail this once in a lifetime trip. Plus we find out why Amtrak has decided private railcars have become so burdensome, these fine recreations of the American rail scene are being forced out from the American scene, making it a difficult as possible for these car owners to operate. This is a free podcast !! |
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Kelly Questions: Rounds 33-34-35
Haworth-Skibbe-Adams Still questioning whether or not that purchase of swampland was a good investment after all, why can’t we spell creativity anyway we want, if the fork was made of gold wouldn’t still be considered silverware. We can’t help you with any of these pressing questions but we can certainly assist with making that nagging headache worse. So sit back with a big bowl of chopped oily shop rags, a steaming hot cup of river algae and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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AML Product News - May 11th. Want to find out how to chill a bottle of wine in just three minutes, still looking for that giant shark photo off the coast of Australia or thinking about how to become a professional bridesmaid. Well it’s all here in another addition of product news with your favorite Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook. So sit back was a giant bowl wedding rice, of steaming hot cup of boiler paint and enjoy!! This is a free podcast !! |
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Springfield Interview: Wayne Mollohan -
Providence Northern Model Railroad Club just wouldn’t be the same without our next guest, a long time listener, Superfan and strong supporter of the podcast, Wayne Mollohan has been a model railroader for first long as he can remember. He stopped by long enough to have some cookies, update us on all the news around the great state of Rhode Island and reassure us the hobby is not dying. It’s a great interview to bring you up-to-date on all the comings and goings of your favorite AML dentist Dr. Wayne Mollohan. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #16 -
Still dreaming of that island in the sun, convinced that WD-40 is just as good as any sunscreen at the local drugstore. You’re just to busy to read all the ViewerPosts. Doing laundry, answering the door, sweeping out the garage, making a sandwich or trying to drink a gallon of milk before it goes bad. Just relax, enjoy the commute and before you know it, this podcast will make you as numb has a Hawaiian surfer on an iceberg. So sit back with a big bowl of shredded conch shells, a frosty mug of salty sea water and enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 97: Jerry Britton -
It's another great story intertwining model railroading with everyday life. A native of Pennsylvania, this is the heart warming story of local boy makes good. Maintaining a very active blog, hosting an extremely well laid out website with millions and millions of visits, while building a fantastic layout. Jerry’s truly a nonstop whirling dervish, always something on the go, the kind of model railroader I always hoped to be. Never wasting a minute of valuable time as he works toward finishing his fantastic HO scale Pennsylvania Railroad layout set in the 1950s. This interview has lots of interesting information and plenty of model railroading stories to keep you entertained as you travel the highways and byways of life. Enjoy!! |
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Springfield Interview: David Lehlbach -Since 2007 Tangent Scale Models has been creating some of the finest HO scale railroad freight car models available on the market today, covering all eras from 1917 to the present. David Lehlbach believes freight cars are just as important to any layout as the locomotives that move them.
We had a great chat at sitting in the Tangent booth at the Amherst show in Springfield, Mass. There’s was plenty of activity around the booth in the short time we spent together and David had some very definite ideas about the future of model railroading. Enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Virtual Hobby Shop #14 -
Once again it’s time to hang out with the boys down at the shop and find what’s happening in everyone’s life. This time with an international flavor as Gordy Robinson, Peter Borcherds and all of the regular characters get ready to chew the fact about anything and everything. Gordy entertains us with some of his and endless riddles and a vivid description of his trip to North America and quality time spent with our very own Chris Atkins. We learn about Tower 55, Twenty-Four hours of Saginaw and how Gordy attempted to qualify for the Texas NASCAR race, plus he takes time out to fire up a couple of Genset locomotives. All this and more so get yourself a big bowl of shredded tires, a steaming hot cup of ethanol fuel and enjoy. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Mike Deverell Part 3.
It's time for another visit with Mike Deverell and his Colorado Front Range Railroad. We pick up where we left off on our last visit as Mike describes using his new laser that he purchased in order to build structures specifically designed for his railroad. We learn about Sears homes which were basically giant 1:1 shipped to a town by the railroad and constructed buy a local crew. He also describes extensively using flats to create city scenes that will be well lit during nighttime operations. It’s another great visit with Mike that I’m sure you’ll enjoy. |
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Tape 2 Tape - 2018.
It's time once again for AML’s Stanley Cup playoff breakdown, yes that’s right it’s the show you been waiting all season for, Tape 2 Tape. Get ready to arrive at the net with the puck in a bad mood. All your favorite AML hockey analysts are here with their expert predictions and playoff analysis to save you the time of watching any games. There will be plenty of hooking and slashing as we sort out who’s finally victorious and hoists the cup. So get yourself a big bowl of old hockey tape, a glass of melted center ice and enjoy. |
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AML Product News - April 27th. After a well deserved spring break of frolicking on the beaches in Daytona our favorite Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook, is back what another episode of product news. Walters announces another locomotive, the always popular trivia question as well as some of the most important product announcements in the hobby. Enjoy!! |
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Springfield Interview: Gordy Robinson -
People from all over the world come to the Springfield Show, Gordy Robinson come from Scotland. He’s a member of the NMRA British Region and also on the worldwide NMRA media team. Gordy is one of the young gun’s in the hobby and living proof that it’s not dying yet. He’s seriously considering running for the NMRA Board of Directors and would be a great addition to the executive committee. Enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #15 -
Need to get away because your pet alligator bit off your favorite arm, got your finger stuck in a bowling ball, your pet cat Muffin just isn’t eating or a swarm of bees surrounded your car and you can’t get out. Well we can’t help with any of these problems but we can help you waste 99 minutes of your life that will make these problems seem small. So get youself a big hot mug radiator fluid, a steaming hot plate of shredded hockey tape and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Shane Show #4: Proto Throttle Review -
Some say it’s the most realistic throttle for operating model diesel locomotives ever produced… We say it’s not a proven product until it passes the Shane test. It’s been reported in some circles that modelers can operate just like a real engineer with the new ProtoThrottle because the controls feel and perform just like the prototype. So take a listen while Model Railroad News editor Tony Cook and our very own Shane “the Young Gun” put this product to the test. |
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Springfield Interview: Jim Scorse -
This time we clog up the aisles as we talk to NCE founder Jim Scorse a long time supporter of ModelersLife. NCE has been developing and manufacturing DCC Products since 1993, they’ve also supplied other DCC and locomotive manufacturers. Jim tells that NCE recently doubled their manufacturing space but still keep labor costs low by utilizing modern automated robotic assembly for most products. They’ve come a long way since starting the company in Jim’s garage… Sound familiar?? Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 96: Blair Kooistra Part 2 -
Blair Kooistra month continues here on the ‘ole AML Network, a resident of Fort Worth, Texas, Blair has made outstanding contributions to the photographic interpretation of North America's railroading. He’s photographed railroads extensively since high school and his work has been widely published, with 15 articles in the Trains magazine index and he was recognized in its 50th anniversary issue (November 1990). He remains active as a photographer, concentrating on shortlines and heritage railroading and traveled twice to Australia where there is still access to facilities and railroaders. “Overall Kooistra’s work is among the most significant railroad photography of the post-steam era,” writes Scott Lothes, president of the Center for Railroad Photography & Art |
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Atkins Diet #5 -
Still can’t out down that bowl sour cream and bacon chips, you’ve had one to many cans of Spam for breakfast, you thought Hershey bars were a health food?? Well fear not we’ll have you looking slim and trim in no time with another episode of the Atkins Diet. Chris has been once again travelling the highways and byways of America searching out his latest model railroading adventure. So sit back with a big glass of musty flood water, a big bowl of shredded wet carpet and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Springfield Interview: Greg Javonillo
I’ve met so many great people through this podcast and Greg is no different. Although originally from the area he’d come to Springfield from New Orleans where he lives now. From show apps, the bus ride to the show and everything else. Greg embodies what the typical Amherst show goer looks and sounds like and I know you’ll enjoy this interview. Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Kooistra: a Dying Transcontinental -
This is a bonus episode in the eighteen part Blair Kooistra trilogy as he describes in detail his stunning 27 minute black-and-white video tribute to the west end of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad and its employees, photographed during its last years of operation, 1977-1980. You can find it here: https://vimeo.com/261066420 Blair returned decades later to the Pacific Northwest to complete the stories of the people who made the Milwaukee Road special. This is a great companion piece to a video that makes railroading more romantic than a Harlequin romance novel. Open in iTunes Here. Free Download from Libsyn Here. |
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ViewerPosts Vacation Cruise #14 -
Ready for another cruise down the river of life?? Another opportunity to change course on your journey of hope?? A chance to find the true meaning of life?? Well we here at the ‘ole AML Network can’t help with anything worthwhile but we can make you wish that you’d fallen overboard. So grab a deck chair, put on your favorite sun hat and we’ll have begging for it to stop in no time. Enjoy!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Springfield Interview: Miles Hale
You know him from years of Woodland Scenic’s demonstrations and clinics explaining scenery techniques as close to nature as you can get them. Now it’s time to hear the untold story of Miles Hale direct from the middle of the aisle way in the Better Living Center at the Springfield Train Show. We blocked of the path of busy show goers as we merrily chatted and chuckled. We even managed to talk model railroading. So grab yourself a big bowl of ground foam, a tall bubbly glass of matte medium and enjoy !! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
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Episode 95: Blair Kooistra -
If it moves Blair will photograph it, he’s such an interesting guy we declared April, Blair Kooistra month at the ‘ole AML Network. He started out as a photojournalist had his first article in Trains magazine published before he was and now works as a dispatcher for the BNSF. Living in Texas he decided it was only natural to Australian railroads but his Walla Walla Valley Railroad was featured in Great Model Railroads 2005. It’s another great interview and Blair is an interesting guy so enjoy!! Open in iTunes Here. Free Download from Libsyn Here. |
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Kelly Questions: Rounds 30-31-32 It's time once again to grill some unsuspecting guests with the carefully crafted “Kelly Questions. This time Todd Arnett, Mike “the Spoon” Ostertag and Bob Fallowfield try their hand at these life changing insights. So take notes, don’t think to hard and enjoy !!! Download this episode at: https://www.patreon.com/ModelersLife |
