Around The Layout - A Model Railroad Podcast

Latest Episodes:

What's Happening In Model Railroading - October 2026 - Lance Mindheim Oct 15, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to move from aspiring modeler to developing a signature style—and where should model railroaders focus their attention to make meaningful progress?
Lance Mindheim joins Around The Layout Podcast to discuss the thinking behind his two latest books: 12 Model Railroad Track Plans for a Spare Room, 2nd Edition and Student to Master: The Lifelong Journey to Model Railroading Excellence. Returning to ground he first covered in 2009, Lance revisits track planning with years of added design, construction, and observational experience. Alongside this, he explores the broader question of how modelers learn, improve, and decide where to direct their efforts in a field overflowing with detailed tips but often lacking big-picture guidance.
The conversation covers recognizing the most important factors in making a layout stand out, the value of scene composition and color choices, and the decision-making process behind track planning revisions. Real-world examples illustrate why visual impact doesn’t always hinge on hyper-accurate details, and why restraint and negative space can be just as significant to a scene as rolling stock or structures. The episode also examines how conventions, publications, and mentoring can better support modelers at every stage.
IN THIS EPISODE:
• Revisiting track plans with added experience and a critical eye
• Deciding what contributes most to visual impact and satisfaction
• The difference between detail-oriented accuracy and overall scene composition
• Mentoring, conventions, and the need for broad modeling guidance
• Managing layout ambitions, negative space, and the pitfalls of overbuilding
• Prioritizing learning as an ongoing, reflective process
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/260
This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains:
https://rapidotrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

ATLP Rewind - Talking Ops With Don Irace - Operations On The CS&P with Drew James - October 8, 2024 Oct 12, 2026

Show notes

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released October 8, 2024
How does a layout owner balance operational complexity and guest enjoyment on a large-scale proto-freelance railroad?
Drew James joins Around The Layout Podcast to discuss the operational design and evolution of the Canada Spokane and Pacific, his 1,500-square-foot, proto-freelanced HO scale layout set in June 1978 and jointly owned by the Burlington Northern and Canadian Pacific. The episode focuses on the practical decisions and tradeoffs Drew makes to deliver rewarding operating sessions for both regulars and guests, emphasizing approachable CTC-based traffic control, flexible switchlist systems, and the importance of keeping the experience enjoyable rather than overwhelming.
The conversation covers the reasons behind Drew’s operating scheme choices, including why he prefers CTC over timetable and train order for regular sessions and how switchlists have replaced car cards and waybills in his system. Drew describes adapting his approach as regular operators’ preferences evolve, ensuring operational variety, and deliberately designing yard and mainline flow to reduce stress and waiting. The discussion also touches on creating new challenges—like introducing a long-unused track wye into the session—and practical staging, restaging, and dispatching methods on a railroad designed for both social and operational enjoyment.
IN THIS EPISODE:
• Deciding between CTC, timetable and train order, and other traffic control methods
• Moving from car cards and waybills to a custom switchlist system
• Designing yard operations for accessibility and reduced operator stress
• Adapting operating jobs as crew preferences shift over time
• Introducing new operational challenges—including creative use of a previously unused wye
• Balancing realism, variety, and enjoyment for both regular and occasional operators
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

Talking Ops With Don Irace - Switching In The Big Apple with Bruce Ryan Oct 08, 2026

Show notes

What happens when an operator brings ongoing prototype research and personal experimentation to a compact urban switching layout?
Bruce Ryan joins Around The Layout Podcast for an in-depth discussion of operations on his Manhattan Terminal Railroad—a proto-freelance HO scale model inspired by New York City’s industrial railroading. With a background rooted in both lifelong interest and city living, Bruce shares how research into prototype practices, historic freight circulars, and urban operations shapes every element of his design, from traffic planning to industry placement. Rather than relying on standard automation, Bruce prefers to handcraft switch lists and carefully select car movements, drawing from an evolving schedule that balances randomness, customer needs, and his own desire to keep sessions both realistic and relaxing.
The conversation explores constant layout evolution, including physical changes to track and industry locations based on new research, operational feedback, and hands-on solo testing. Bruce describes the unique operational structure of his one-town, car float-based railroad, including how crew roles, storage track placement, and commodity flows are shaped by both prototype sources and practical experience. Tradeoffs around session planning, car cycling, and maintaining operational challenge without creating tedious puzzles are discussed, along with the broader value of connecting with other operators—moving from "lone wolf" operations to being part of an active regional community.
IN THIS EPISODE:
• Integrating prototype research and freight circulars into traffic planning
• Handcrafting switch lists versus using automated ops software
• Evolving track plans and industries in response to new information and experience
• Balancing challenge and playability in switching operations
• Managing single-town, car float-based operations for solo and crew sessions
• Adapting layout practice through feedback from guest operators and solo testing
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/261
This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains:
https://rapidotrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Tully Models:
https://tullymodels.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

ATLP Rewind - The Art Of The Review with Ryan Crawford - October 1, 2024 Oct 05, 2026

Show notes

How does a detail-oriented prototype modeler approach product reviews for Model Railroad News while balancing accuracy, practicality, and respect for manufacturers’ efforts?
Ryan Crawford joins Around The Layout Podcast to discuss the methods, decision-making, and research that shape his reviews for Model Railroad News. Drawing on his background modeling the Chicago and Illinois Midland and firsthand railroad knowledge, Ryan covers how prototype understanding guides what he notices and reports—down to specifics like number board decals, decals, handrails, and even the fonts and ampersands that distinguish an accurate model from a near-miss. The conversation centers on how personal experience and access to resources like Diesel Era magazine inform his ability to analyze both locomotives and rolling stock.
The discussion explores how to handle manufacturer errors constructively, the tradeoffs between fine detail and durability, and the process of balancing objectivity and respect for the challenges of model railroad production. Ryan also reflects on changes in the hobby, including technology, tooling, and increasing consumer expectations, while drawing parallels between the research process for writing a book and for composing a thorough review. The episode closes with listener contributions on what factors matter most when purchasing a locomotive—from era correctness to price to DCC capability.
IN THIS EPISODE:
• Comparing prototype research with reviewing model railroad products
• Balancing fine detail, accuracy, and practicality in reviews
• Approaching mistakes and oversights by manufacturers
• The role of fonts, number boards, and small details in accurate modeling
• Listener responses on key locomotive purchasing criteria
• Reflections on the current era of model railroad manufacturing and product variety
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/rewind
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Broadway Limited Imports:
https://broadway-limited.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com:
https://scalesigns.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

ATLP Rewind - Introduction To N Scale with Jimmy DIY - September 25, 2025 Sep 28, 2026

Show notes

ATLP Rewind - Originally Released September 25, 2025
What happens when an HO scale modeler steps into N scale, and how do different approaches, products, and tradeoffs shape the experience? Jimmy DIY of the DIY and Digital Railroads YouTube channel joins Around The Layout Podcast for an in-depth discussion on entering and succeeding in N scale modeling. Drawing from hands-on experience and experimentation, Jimmy provides an overview of the current state of N scale, including technological advances, increasing product selection, and the benefits of scale for those with limited space or a desire for expansive scenery. He offers perspective on what might surprise or challenge those coming from HO, highlighting the practical realities and innovations that define modern N scale.The conversation examines key decisions facing newcomers and experienced hobbyists alike, including product standards, coupler and wheelset compatibility, track codes, and the growing world of modular railroading—especially T-TRAK and other standards. Jimmy also addresses scenery options, ballasting techniques, and the expanding influence of 3D printing in smaller scales. Listener responses round out the episode, sharing the motivations, tradeoffs, and experiences that draw modelers to N scale for its space-saving potential, operational opportunities, and evolving product support.
IN THIS EPISODE:

Deciding when—and why—to choose N scale over HO
Comparing product offerings, detail levels, and recent innovations in N scale
Understanding coupler, wheelset, and track compatibility
Exploring modular standards like T-TRAK and other N scale modular systems
Practical tips for scenery, ballasting, and using 3D-printed details in N scale
Listener perspectives on the appeal and tradeoffs of modeling in N

Learn more about this episode on our website, aroundthelayout.com/rewind
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Broadway Limited Imports:
https://broadway-limited.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com:
https://scalesigns.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

Rooting A Freelance World In Reality With Patrick Harris Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

What makes a fictional railroad feel so real that visitors forget it never existed? In this episode of Around the Layout, host Ray Arnott welcomes Patrick Harris of Three Notch Rail to demystify the art of rooting freelance railroading in reality. Patrick Harris shares how geography, history, traffic patterns, and even color palettes can transform a creative vision into a railroad that stands shoulder to shoulder with well-known prototypes. The conversation explores common pitfalls—like letting unrealistic quirks overtake plausibility—and offers practical tips for developing compelling backstories, believable operations, and authentic paint schemes. Listeners also hear from hobbyists around the world as they explain how they chose the names and identities for their own freelance railroads, making this episode both a masterclass and a celebration of creative freedom grounded in research and personal meaning.
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/259
This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains:
https://rapidotrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Colorado Rail Proto Meet:
https://corpm.org/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

NVRRA & RailFair 2026 Preview with Thomas Fitzgerald Sep 21, 2026

Show notes

Ever wondered how a model railroad club thrives and grows over decades, while bringing together hobbyists of every experience level? In this episode, we welcome Thomas Fitzgerald of the Nashua Valley Railroad Association to discuss the club’s rich history—from its beginnings in the back room of a hobby shop to its impressive current home in Phoenix Park in Shirley, MA. They explore the evolution of the club’s expansive layout, the growth in membership, regular open houses, and the vibrant community spirit that keeps the tracks humming. The conversation dives deep into the excitement of operating sessions and culminates with everything you need to know about RailFair 2026, the highly anticipated annual train show that unites railroad fans, families, and collectors alike.
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/258
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Broadway Limited Imports:
https://broadway-limited.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com:
https://scalesigns.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

What's Happening In Model Railroading - September 2026 - Bachmann Trains' Matt Stern Sep 17, 2026

Show notes

What does it take for a major model train manufacturer to keep both beginner enthusiasts and hardcore prototype modelers happy? In this episode of Around the Layout, Ray Arnott sits down with Matt Stern from Bachmann Trains for an in-depth discussion about the evolving demands of the model railroading community, the challenges of prototyping road-specific and number-specific details, and how Bachmann is bridging the gap between entry-level train sets and high-end, RPM-grade products. The conversation also explores Bachmann's research process, collaborations with licensors like Amtrak and Siemens, and their approach to expanding modern freight offerings. Joe Martens shares what's trending in the hobby, and Eric Hansman delivers the latest on RPM events and offers tips for transporting your models to meets. Whether you're new to the hobby or a seasoned modeler, this episode offers a fascinating look at the artistry and strategy shaping today's model railroading landscape.
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/255
This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains:
https://rapidotrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, NarrowThrottle by Scott Thornton:
https://narrowthrottle.square.site/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

2026 Freelance Forum Preview with Christopher Palmieri Sep 14, 2026

Show notes

Does freelance belong at a railroad prototype modelers meet? That’s the question posed to Christopher Palmieri, owner of Home Shops and creator of the Freelance Forum, as he joins Ray Arnott to preview this year’s event at the 2026 Colorado Rail Proto Meet. Together, they explore how freelance model railroading intersects with prototype accuracy, tracing the origins and evolution of the Freelance Forum. From the discipline required to create believable fictional lines to the valuable research, plausibility, and storytelling freelance modelers offer, this episode highlights how collaboration and in-person connection at the RPM can fuel inspiration across the modeling spectrum.
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/257
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Broadway Limited Imports:
https://broadway-limited.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com:
https://scalesigns.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply:
https://ohrtracksupply.com/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

Talking Ops with Don Irace - Operations On The MKT with David Heyde Sep 10, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to design a model railroad layout that's both true to its prototype and a joy to operate with friends? In this episode, Ray Arnott and co-host Don Irace are joined by David Heyde for an in-depth conversation about building and evolving a medium-sized Missouri- Kansas-Texas layout in a one bay garage —right down to the details that bring Central Texas railroading to life in the spring of 1987. The discussion covers everything from the lessons learned in yard placement, the importance of aisle space, and balancing flawless operations with fun, to the value of feedback from operators and the ever-present urge to make layout changes as experience grows. Listeners will gain insight into both the joys and challenges of developing an operations-focused railroad and learn why sometimes, ripping things out for improvement is the best path forward.
Learn more about this episode on our website:
aroundthelayout.com/254
This episode of Around The Layout is Powered By Rapido Trains:
https://rapidotrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, Spring Creek Model Trains:
https://www.springcreekmodeltrains.com/
Thank you to our episode sponsor, NarrowThrottle by Scott Thornton:
https://narrowthrottle.square.site/
Visit our website at aroundthelayout.com
Become a member of our Operating Crew for chances to win and much more!
aroundthelayout.com/crew
Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC
©2026 Thirty Five Productions LLC. All rights reserved.
The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Thirty Five Productions LLC or our sponsors.
Use of any trademarks or trade names is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
No portion of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Thirty Five Productions LLC, except for brief quotations used for purposes of review, commentary, or promotion.

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