a ModelersLife
All modelers have a life but what do we know of it. This podcast is as much about the people in model railroading has it is about the hobby itself. I've met so many interesting people in the hobby over the years I decided it would be fun to share their back stories with everyone else. So come along with me, Lionel Strang my trusty sidekick, Jim Rindt and Bruce the mail boy as we discover just how many fascinating folks there are in this great hobby.
info_outline
Episode 263: Hawkins Rails
06/16/2025
Episode 263: Hawkins Rails
Have you ever stumbled across a website and an hour later realized you’re still looking at it because of how much material was available?? That’s what happened to us at the ole’ AML World Headquarters in downtown Busted Knuckle, Kentucky. Surfin’ the internet we stumbled across “Hawkins Rails” one of the most comprehensive railfanning websites you’ll ever find. Whether it’s mainline railroading or looking for an obscure shoreline you’ll most likely find it on Hawkins Rails. Starting with Jack Hawkins in the 1940’s it wasn’t to many years until his son Ralph started to enjoy standing trackside with his Dad. These days Ralph and his daughter Ella are carrying on the tradition of Hawkins Rails and the site just grows and grows. This is a great podcast with lots of great information about railfanning for the past seventy plus years.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/37018355
info_outline
Return of the Mud Father
06/09/2025
Return of the Mud Father
On this podcast, we welcome back Ralph Renzetti a.k.a. “The Mudfather.” The Evel Overlord had lots of questions about paint, glues and everything else that’s needed to build an award-winning model. There’s plenty of discussion on the mixing of paints, which ones are best suited for each individual application and lots more. Ralph Renzetti as well-known among his peers as an expert modeler and extremely knowledgeable about everything that’s required to build that prize running model that’s the centerpiece of your layout. He’s always willing to share his thoughts on a wide variety of topics without hesitation. It’s a great podcast and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36907630
info_outline
RPM Meets
06/02/2025
RPM Meets
RPM Meets have created a community for sharing information and experiences about and around the hobby of model railroading, what others are doing in the hobby, why they’re doing and what each individual is trying to accomplish. There are many RPM events throughout the country. Some are national conferences like the Chicagoland or St. Louis events, while others are one or two-day local meets with a focus on displaying models and sharing a few clinics. Mr. RPM, Eric Hansmann joins us to discuss what’s happening in the world of RPM meets.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36814330
info_outline
Episode 262: Wallace Locomotive Works
05/26/2025
Episode 262: Wallace Locomotive Works
Details, details, details, with today’s HO and N-scale locomotive manufactures delivering engines with just about every detail you can imagine, we here at the old AML headquarters have discovered someone that’s producing even more details for every facet of your layout, including locomotives and rolling stock. Chris Wallace is like almost everyone else in the hobby having been a model railroader for as long as he can remember but here’s the twist, he’s also a full-time 1:1 railroader that’s discovered 3-D printers and a need for many details that haven’t been available up till now. Whether it’s trash cans, air conditioners, fire hydrants, tiedown chain, runaround hoses, or a whole host of details for specific locomotives Wallace Locomotives Works is your one stop shop. Tell ‘em Lionel sent you and see if that helps!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36628635
info_outline
Episode 261: Wally Swaitly
05/19/2025
Episode 261: Wally Swaitly
One of the great things about this hobby of model railroading is that it’s always there when you need it, like a faithful companion, whether you choose to work on your current project every day, once a week or just a few times a month, it’s always there ready for the next adventure. Our next guest, Wally Swaitly is typical of folks who revisit the hobby after years or perhaps even decades away, whilst pursuing other interests. But what makes Wally so interesting is how much he’s accomplished in just a few short years since his return and even more amazing are some of the projects he’s decided to tackle strictly for the enjoyment of it. Whether it’s the N-Scale railroad that runs around the ceiling, his beautiful HO-Scale shelf layout or his On-30 fantasy layout, each one is built with enthusiasm and excitement.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36604480
info_outline
Central Pennsylvania Short Lines RPM
05/12/2025
Central Pennsylvania Short Lines RPM
Here at the ole’ AML Nation’s world headquarters in downtown Busted Knuckle, Kentucky… It seems increasingly evident to us that RPM meets are becoming more and more popular with each passing year. On this podcast, we talk with Jerry Britton and Matthew Hurst about the second edition of the Central Pennsylvania Short Lines RPM. There’s going to be plenty to do on Friday with layout visits in Statesville and operating session at the Bricktown Museum in Mt. Union. Friday evening after dinner will feature clinics that continue all day Saturday. Sunday will offer an opportunity to tour the Everett Railroad’s shops, followed by an excursion for those who are interested. It’s going to be a great event, and this is a great podcast to tell you all about it.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36509000
info_outline
Mike Hauk: Cover of the Rolling Stone
05/05/2025
Mike Hauk: Cover of the Rolling Stone
Imagine the excitement of having your model railroad appear on the cover of the hobby’s premier magazine for the first time?? That’s exactly what happened to Mike Hauk When his Susquehanna and New York, Railroad appeared on the cover of the May issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. This HO scale railroad is based on a short line located in the central Pennsylvania mountains, north of Williamsport and along the West branch of the Susquehanna River. Mike first discovered this railroad while reading Tom Taber’s series on logging railroads, while more inspiration came from the family hunting camp that wasn’t far from an entire freight yard thick with woods after its abandonment years before. It’s a great podcast and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36433820
info_outline
Episode 260: Robin Mountenay
04/28/2025
Episode 260: Robin Mountenay
After a lifetime of serving a higher calling and a lifelong obsession with model railroading, it was time for our next guest to buy a basement with a house on top of it. Robin Montenay spent most of his life with the Lutheran Church and without a permanent site to build a model railroad. What he ended with is a spectacular shelf layout called the “Barchester” that appeared on the cover of the 2024 December issue of Railroad Model Craftsman. Without ties to the church Robin has become a free to visit train shows and explore what the hobby has to offer other than through the pages of the most popular magazines. It’s a great podcast and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36325150
info_outline
Episode #259: White Rose Hobbies
04/21/2025
Episode #259: White Rose Hobbies
Have you ever wondered what would happen if two guys with beards that worked for the Norfolk Southern joined forces to create a destination hobby shop in York, Pennsylvania?? The same question occurred to us and after an exhaustive search we stumbled across Ryan and Tom who just so happened to own White Rose Hobbies, a full-line hobby shop located at 4401 W Market St. in York, PA. Ryan has been a life-long model railroader and Tom has been a life-long entrepreneur with a desire to be part of a successful business. Together they turned Ryan original dream of owning a prosperous model railroad store into a full-service hobby shop and e-commerce business that shows no signs of slowing down. This is a great story, so grab yourself a big bowl of shredded beard clippings, a tall cool glass of clipper oil and enjoy!!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35908030
info_outline
Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs !!
04/14/2025
Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs !!
Until recently, most model railroading products were imported from countries like China, Germany, or Japan under a specific harmonized tariff schedule. The tariffs were typically low and often duty-free under most trade agreements. For many imports valued under $800 shipments could often enter the country duty-free But all that’s changed so we here at the ole’ AML Network decided it was time to find out as much as we could about this new world by visiting our friends Tom and Ryan at White Rose Hobbies in York, Pennsylvania to try and get as much of the inside scoop as possible. We were surprised by some of the answers we got and came away with a little bit better understanding of what’s happening in the world of importing model railroad products. It’s a great podcast and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/36123875
info_outline
Episode #258: Linda Eskin
04/07/2025
Episode #258: Linda Eskin
Getting started in model railroading can be an overwhelming experience, with questions like what scale to choose, who makes the best products, do I need to be a skilled carpenter, will there be a need for a vast knowledge in electronics?? The questions are endless and in today’s world of social media the places to find answers can be almost as confusing. But being a woman in model railroading can be both a rewarding and unique experience, though it sometimes comes with challenges due to the hobby’s historical male dominance. The good news is that the landscape is changing, with more women getting involved and making their mark. Our next guest Linda Eskin isn’t afraid to take on a new adventure and decided to jump in with both feet. Join us we discover what the hobby looks like from the perspective of a complete beginner!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35859235
info_outline
Episode 257: Chris Wolfe
03/31/2025
Episode 257: Chris Wolfe
Our next guest may not be well known in the world of model railroading but he’s the son of Larry Wolfe, AMA Hall of Fame member and world-renowned RC jet pioneer. Chris Wolfe grew up in the back room of Jet hanger Hobbies while being exposed to all aspects of the radio control hobby. His passion for the hobby started at an early age when he began building plastic models, by age eleven he was flying RC aircraft. Chris has built numerous award-winning competition scale aircraft and loves to build as much as he loves to fly. Sharing his knowledge and techniques he’s developed and honed on his own can be found in his series of books available at: This is a great podcast, So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded ailerons, a tall cool glass of aviation fuel and enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35823485
info_outline
Episode 256: Bill Ford
03/24/2025
Episode 256: Bill Ford
Getting back into the hobby after a long hiatus isn’t as simple as it might sound, things have changed, prices are different, tools are better, the models run so much more smoothly, and the AML Nation is now here to help. On this episode, we talk with Bill Ford who’s always been a Model Railroader, but took time off for to pursue his career in punk rock and becoming an licensed electrician. Bill never actually lost his enthusiasm for the hobby but as with so many things, life got in the way and laying track was put on the back burner for a while. This is a great podcast about returning to a hobby that’s seen significant changes over the last three decades. Enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35714730
info_outline
Episode #255: Spikey Bits
03/17/2025
Episode #255: Spikey Bits
Turns out there’s other hobbies besides model railroading, who knew??... So here at the ole’ World Headquarters in downtown Busted Knuckle, Kentucky have decided that for the second decade of “a ModelersLife” we’re going to occasionally explore life outside this great hobby of ours. The hobby of wargaming has been growing in popularity over the last several decades, and we decided to strike up a conversation with someone that has an excellent website, a great YouTube channel, lots of tutorials and a personality that fits perfectly into the AML Nation. “Spikey Bits” a.k.a. Rob Baer was excited to talk to a couple of model railroaders and tell us all about his hobby of wargaming. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded Blast Masters, a tall cool glass of air brush cleaner and enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35710730
info_outline
Episode 254: David Lund
03/10/2025
Episode 254: David Lund
It’s always fun when we talk to somebody for the very first time and on this episode, we head to the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois to talk with David Lund an avid model railroader, brand new dad of beautiful twin girls, son of a full-time railroader and a man that understands the finer things about hotdogs. If you’re interested in anything other than model railroads as David has been for most of his life, this is a great discussion about plastic plane modeling and some of the crossover techniques that might be used when working on any model railroad. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded wing-flaps, a tall cool glass of paint brush cleaner and enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35544715
info_outline
Andy Zimmerman: Mr. T-Trak
03/03/2025
Andy Zimmerman: Mr. T-Trak
One of the great things about this hobby of model railroading is the ability to meet people from all walks of life and while we’ve talked with Andy Zimmerman before, it’s always interesting to start the discussion talking about life on an aircraft carrier and around the world. But after that, there was plenty of talk about T-Trak, the evolution of Kato Precision Railroad Models, advancements in DCC decoders over the years and some of the best model railroad benchwork money can buy. So grab yourself a big bowl of shredded locomotive wheels, a tall cool glass of warm sea water and enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35409625
info_outline
Joe Desmond Part Two
02/24/2025
Joe Desmond Part Two
It’s part two of the Joe Desmond chronicles, and in this episode we discover some very cool 3-D printed pick-up truck models at Showcase Miniatures, from the original Mad About Cars series. There’s also a great discussion and some excellent instruction on how to paint these particular models while Joe introduces us to the Army Painter series of paints and supplies. Joe also tells us how he learned to curve wood and make his fabulous control panels look like they were built directly into the layout facia. So grab a big bowl of shredded paint brushes, a tall cool glass of thinned Radiation Glow paint and enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35353510
info_outline
Waz' Happenin' with Joe Desmond
02/17/2025
Waz' Happenin' with Joe Desmond
It’s been a while since we checked in with our friend Joe Desmond, an N- Scale modeler with a passion for the hobby, Conrail and connecting with other hobbyists through social media. There’s a great discussion about the pros and cons of spending valuable modeling time making YouTube videos versus working on the layout. Joe has for some years now publicized his Central Jersey Conrail layout on TikTok and other social media avenues. There’s some good discussion on why the layout isn’t finished yet, life’s curveballs and never sacrificing quality for speed or getting the layout finished, as well as a variety of other topics. It’s a great podcast and we’re sure you’ll enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35301985
info_outline
the OverLord Screws-Up
02/10/2025
the OverLord Screws-Up
Bad behaviour or making hurtful statements can often be an insight into one’s soul, sometimes showcasing the dark and often unexpected sides of our personalities. It challenges traditional notions of morality and explores the complexity of human spirit. Bad behavior can help analyze the intricacies of the human thought process, showcasing how past traumas and insecurities can shape individuals' particular actions and decision-making. Creating a ripple effect of damage to not only ourselves but those around us. This podcast is about bad behavior, life lessons, course directions, and most of all, how to go forward being a better person.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35217520
info_outline
Smokin' Joe D'Amato
02/03/2025
Smokin' Joe D'Amato
We’ve interviewed so many folks over the last decade sometimes it’s hard to remember who we’ve missed over the last little while, but thanks to the modeler simply known as “Kelly,” we’ve once again teamed up with one of the most prolific and imaginative folks we’ve ever met on our travels throughout the model railroad world. Smokin’ Joe D’Amato has for over two decades been a key element in the design and production of the fabulous N-Scale line from Micro-Trains in Talent, Oregon. Never at a loss for words or ideas, Smokin’ Joe has been a big of N-Scale scene since the early 2000’s. Lately he’s even helped the company branch out into HO-Scale with a great line of weathered cars from Accurail. It’s a great podcast and as always, Joe doesn’t disappoint!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35124595
info_outline
Central of Georgia RPM
01/27/2025
Central of Georgia RPM
On this episode of who has the Evel Overlord managed to lure into the studio, the story about three guys who’ve taken it upon themselves to move the Savannah RPM to a new location is revealed, continuing a tradition in the great state of Georgia, and making it bigger and better than ever. Paul Spilman, Stephen Floyd, and Ken Preston have taken it upon themselves to keep the tradition of what many have known as “the Savannah RPM’ going strong. Since 1999, from their roots in Port Wentworth, GA until today, in Macon, GA the Central Georgia Railroad Prototype Modelers Meet has been focused on providing a space for modelers to meet, display their work, and most importantly, engage with each other. Paul tells us all about this great RPM meet new facilities and they found, great local railfanning, abundance of hotels plus everything else need to make this a great even. If you’re in the area this is a definite must see and you can check out their website here: https://www.centralgarpm.com/
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/35003600
info_outline
the Big Springfield Show
01/20/2025
the Big Springfield Show
It’s that time of year again, the best train show in all of North America (and maybe the world) is just a few days away, and has become our yearly tradition, John Sacerdote the show Director has stopped by the AML World Headquarters in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky to tell us all the latest news that’ll get us so excited we won’t be able to sleep until the doors open. The Amherst Railway Society’s Railroad Hobby Show has been going for decades and since it’s humble beginnings as a swap meet, the show moved to the exposition grounds in 1982. Twice, the show received the Walther’s Showmanship Award in recognition of our efforts to promote interest in railroads and model railroads. Plus, the show supports the work of many railroad-related non-profit organizations. Since 1991, they’ve donated $829,252 to railroad preservation and restoration projects all over the country. Once again it was a great pleasure to speak with John. Enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34913930
info_outline
All-Star Variety Hour #58
01/13/2025
All-Star Variety Hour #58
It’s an all new “All-Star Variety Hour” without much variety. We’ve got just one guest for this show and Daniel Banks is just starting his initial term as the Superintendent of the Central Indiana Division after serving three years as train master. When he’s not busy trying to make the NMEA grow he can be found pursuing his favorite favorite parts of the hobby, building and operations. Dan has recently begun a new laser kit business called Wabash Model Works, modeling primarily 1875 Old West. It’s somewhat Disney-fied, much romanticized, just plausible enough to be believable kits and scenes that will draw you in, like a good paperback western full of adventure. There’s plenty of chat with this modeler and a podcast we hope you enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34831555
info_outline
Episode 253: Train Wizard Productions
01/06/2025
Episode 253: Train Wizard Productions
What does Harry Potter and railfanning have in common, well nothing really, unless of course you add in an Ohio native named Adam Matthews, railroad preservationist, photographer and model railroader who was inspired by his grandfather, a retired vice superintendent of shipping at US steel in Lorain, Ohio. We’ve been wanting to interview Adam for quite sometime now, after stumbling across his website “Train Wizard Productions,” a must see for anyone even remotely interested in trains, model railroading and great photography. With more than 150,000 followers on Instagram, Adam is a preservationist heavily involved with the Nickel Plate Historical Society, Mad River and NKP Museum, plus the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society. He’s also got a great O-Gauge 3-Rail layout. There’s so much information in this podcast by the time you’re finished you’ll be dizzier than a trout in a blender. Enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34704820
info_outline
Trainfest Report
12/30/2024
Trainfest Report
Started in 1971 as a one day show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Trainfest grew as the decades rolled by into a two-day show sponsored by the Wisconsin Southeastern division of the NMRA. Eventually the show moved to the Wisconsin State Fair Park and for decades was a huge success but as with everything, changes happened and those who took over were unable to maintain it’s popularity. Over the last few years, the shows doors have only been open sporadically with those in charge unable to keep a successful show running. Fortunately, this year a group of individuals more capable took over and the show was held at the Baird Center in downtown Milwaukee. We sent two of the AML’s crack reporters to mingle and schmooze with the attendees. The show was a great success this year, with many familiar faces in attendance. So, grab yourself a big bowl of shredded floor plans, a tall cool glass of half-finished coffee and enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34643815
info_outline
a Christmas Story
12/23/2024
a Christmas Story
Christmas stories bring a special warmth and magic to the season. From heartwarming tales of kindness and family to the whimsical adventures of Santa Claus and his reindeer, they capture the joy and wonder of the holidays. Nothing can bring the spirit of the holidays to life quicker than two grown men dressed in polar bear costumes. This is the heartwarming story of the AML Nation coming together to share the magic of the season with each other and all those around them. Our very own Seth “Doc” Gartner and Kevin “Hard Part” Marks decided to pay a visit to Marcus Neubacher at the North Carolina Transportation Museum. Find out what happens when our two intrepid heroes decide to see how much fun could be packed into twelve minutes. It’s an exciting adventure and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34577200
info_outline
"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chat #23
12/16/2024
"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chat #23
It’s time once again to check in with “Uncle” Dave and find out what’s happening in the Abeles clan. Whether it’s dealing with day-to-day life, unboxing of Rapido Trains fabulous new E8 locomotives or the trials and tribulations of day-to-day life. It’s always an interesting discussion while throwing another log on the fire and sitting back with your favorite wobbly pop. In this installment, Dave shows his new enthusiasm for Conrail’s Office Car Special and how much fun he’s having learning all about passenger cars, plus some modelling tips about stripping paint from a Union Pacific sleeper car. But that’s not all, if you listen close enough, you might even get a hint about the next book he’s planning. It’s a great podcast and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy.
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34406085
info_outline
Family Responsibilities
12/09/2024
Family Responsibilities
Balancing a hobby with the responsibilities of raising a family can feel a lot like a well-practiced juggling act, but it’s definitely possible and even beneficial, for both the modeler and the family!! The hobby of model railroading can provide an outlet for creativity and stress relief, which can make you a more patient partner and parent. Finding ways to involve your family in your hobby or setting aside dedicated "you" time can help strike that balance. So, we here at the ole’ AML Network in downtown Busted Knuckle, Kentucky gathered together three of our favorite Dads to find out their secrets to enjoying the hobby while at the same time fulfilling their obligations to their kids and even more importantly, life partner. Model railroading is a great way to teach kids about craftsmanship, history, and in some cases involve everyone in the layout building process. Enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34325710
info_outline
Episode 252: the Station Inn
12/02/2024
Episode 252: the Station Inn
The Station Inn located in Cresson, Pennsylvania was built in 1866, situated just ten miles west of the famous Horseshoe Curve, it was originally built as a hotel for weary travelers heading east or west on the Pennsy Railroad. Over the last hundred and fifty years it’s gone through many changes including the early 90’s when it was purchased by Tom Davis and turned into the place railfans of all kinds from across the globe would come to stay. Fast forward to present day, after Tom passed away in 2021 it was purchased by Alex Lang and his wife Leah who over the years had built a deep friendship with innkeeper and decided they wanted to keep the tradition and memory of Tom alive. It’s been an adventure for the couple who reside an hour and a half away but as you listen to this podcast, you’ll quickly realize their passion for the Station Inn is something we can all be truly thankful for. Enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34210440
info_outline
Talking Detectors
11/25/2024
Talking Detectors
It’s time once again for our courageous crew of confused modelers to gather around the studio to discuss the latest happenings. Originally this podcast was intended to be about Bradd Williamson’s new talking detector, but it quickly morphed into a loosely produced edition of the “Fans.” “the TableMaster” talks about ripping out his current layout and replacing it with something of lessor quality while the “the Queso Cowboy” describes his latest freight car model he purchased from 3D Central. In 1973, the Norfolk & Western Railroad converted a number of their F-20 53′ Flatcars to haul cab assemblies for Mack trucks from supplier to assembly plant. And then finally “the stubby Professor” his talking detector he purchased on E-Bay from DJHayes electronics. It’s a speedometer kit measuring the speed of your train and doubles as a detector and works in any scale. It’s a fun podcast backed with tons of info and one we’re sure you’ll enjoy!!
/episode/index/show/modelerslife/id/34133356