Around The Layout - A Model Railroad Podcast

Ray Arnott
  • 4.7 (80)
  • Hobbies
  • Updated Weekly

Join us as we bring you stories from model railroaders just like you. We talk to enthusiasts across the hobby and learn about their beginnings, challenges, accomplishments and ultimately what excites and motivates them. Come hang out with us Around The Layout and be inspired to create your own model railroading story to share.

  1. 1d ago

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

    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.

  2. 4d ago

    2026 Freelance Forum Preview with Christopher Palmieri

    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.

    2026 Freelance Forum Preview with Christopher Palmieri

  3. Sep 10

    Talking Ops with Don Irace - Operations On The MKT with David Heyde

    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.

  4. Sep 10

    2026 Colorado Rail Proto Meet Preview with Michelle Kempema & Dave Oppedisano

    What makes Railroad Prototype Modelers (RPM) meets such a unique and rapidly growing tradition in the model railroading community? In this episode of Around the Layout, Ray Arnott welcomes Michelle Kempema and Dave to preview the upcoming Colorado Rail Proto Meet, exploring how RPMs differ from traditional train shows through their emphasis on inclusivity, hands-on learning, and information sharing rather than competition. The conversation delves into the origins and distinctive features of the Colorado RPM, including its innovative clinic tracks, collaborative atmosphere, and continuous improvements based on attendee feedback. From weathering stations and creative modeling clinics to the importance of social connection and making the event financially accessible, Michelle and Dave highlight why the RPM experience stands out and continues to bring railroad enthusiasts together nationwide. Learn more about this episode on our website: aroundthelayout.com/256 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.

    2026 Colorado Rail Proto Meet Preview with Michelle Kempema & Dave Oppedisano

  5. Sep 3

    Aaron Cecala & Prairie Girl Grains

    What happens when a lifelong researcher brings his scientific curiosity to model railroading a bit later in life? In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Cecala to explore his unique journey from childhood fascination through a career in neurobiology, and how he finally found his way into the hobby. Aaron shares the story behind designing his plausible yet fictional single-industry layout, how his research background shaped his approach, and the joys—and challenges—of building and operating a detailed model railroad with limited time and space. Dive into how podcasts, YouTube, and hobby shop conversations influenced his choices, why small layouts can cut right to the heart of great operations, and what advice he’d give to anyone still finding their “why” in model railroading. Learn more about this episode on our website: aroundthelayout.com/253 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.

  6. Aug 31

    ATLP Rewind - The Theatrical Approach To Model Railroading with Scott Thornton - August 27. 2024

    ATLP Rewind - Originally Released August 27, 2024 What if we looked at our layouts like they were the stage of a grand performance? On this episode, the talented and thought provoking Scott Thornton comes by to share his passion for taking elements of the theatre and applying it to his model railroad. Scott shares how he uses similar approaches as they do on the stage with lighting, sound and props to make viewers of his layout feel like they are trackside on his IAIS Milan Branch. Later, we hear answers to the Question of the Month submitted by our listeners. 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 - The Theatrical Approach To Model Railroading with Scott Thornton - August 27. 2024

  7. Aug 28

    Model Railroading For The Soul with Bernard Hellen

    What if your model railroad hobby could actually improve your mental and physical health? In this episode of Around the Layout, Ray Arnott sits down with Bernard Hellen—aka "Dr. Mini"—to discuss the deeper reasons behind why we model, exploring the science that reveals how railroading as a hobby boosts well-being, reduces stress, and builds community. Together, they dive into research-backed findings about the concept of "flow," the positive impacts of hobby engagement on longevity and happiness, and the critical role of camaraderie within the model railroading world. Listeners also hear personal testimonies from the community about how the hobby has given them friendship, confidence, and a sense of purpose well beyond the tracks during our Question Of The Month segment. Plus, Bernard Hellen unveils the launch of miniprints University, offering resources to help hobbyists deepen both their modeling and their fulfillment. Learn more about this episode on our website: aroundthelayout.com/252 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.

  8. Aug 24

    ATLP Rewind - Neil Schofield & CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision - January 23, 2024

    ATLP Rewind - Originally Released January 23, 2024 Neil Schofield and his CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision has been our guest wish list since the start of the podcast, so when Neil reached out to be on the podcast, there was quite the celebration! Before telling us about his amazing layout, Neil tells us about his start in model railroading and forcing the transition era on his dad's steam era layout and how road trips to the northernmost parts of New England planted the seed for his Vermont based layout. 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 - Neil Schofield & CP Rail's Newport & Lyndonville Subdivision - January 23, 2024
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4.7
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Join us as we bring you stories from model railroaders just like you. We talk to enthusiasts across the hobby and learn about their beginnings, challenges, accomplishments and ultimately what excites and motivates them. Come hang out with us Around The Layout and be inspired to create your own model railroading story to share.

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