The Roundhouse: Recent Episodes
Nick Ozorak
Do you find trains and railroads interesting? The Roundhouse brings you the most exciting news, stories, and interviews about the railroad industry, the hobby, history, and more.
Carson Marenka and his team at Carson's Video Workshop create original video stories set in the Thomas & Friends universe. We explore how he uses a train simulator to create the videos and his approach to making original stories fit the world of Thomas the Tank Engine.
This episode is sponsored by Rapido Trains Inc.
Whether you think it's massively impressive, massively overrated, or just massive, there is no denying that Big Boy's Eastern US tour has captured public attention for steam railroading in ways that haven't been seen in decades, if ever. But how can we channel that enthusiasm into rail preservation moving forward?
Known as the "Voice of the New York City Subway" Bernie has had a wonderfully varied career using her vocal talent and journalism skills spanning decades. For Pride Month, we are learning about how she got her start in voiceover and journalism, what led to her voice being used for transit station announcements, and how publicly transitioning to a woman opened her career further.
This episode is sponsored by Rapido Trains.
In what ways were railroads crucial to the American Civil War? We talk with Thom Radice of the American Civil War Rail Roads Historical Society to learn more about some of the key individuals involved with the railroads, how the railroads shaped the conflict, and what resources exist for further research.
This episode is sponsored by Rapido Trains and Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
The story of constructing Canada's first transcontinental railway has been explored many times, but how did that railway come to shape immigration policy? David L. Jones, author of New World Dreams: Canadian Pacific Railway and the Golden Northwest, shares how his time as a CP employee enabled him to research this story, and how westward immigration shaped Canada into what it is today.
This episode is sponsored by Rapido Trains Inc and by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Chris LaRose was a musician until COVID changed his career trajectory. Learn about how he came to develop his line of vintage railroad caps and why he feels it connects him to the past.
This episode is sponsored by Rapido Trains Inc and by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Eleven years ago, we interviewed Jason Shron from Rapido Trains about the history of the company up through 2015 and his vision for the future. Today, we see how Rapido has grown into the US and UK markets while still adhering to the principle that model railroading should be fun.
Legos are thought of as toys, but there is a subset of Lego fans that aim to make their trains look as real as possible. Glenn Holland is one of these people and has been making custom Lego models for years. He shares his experiences and projects with us, along with why he views Lego as a worthwhile medium for modeling.
The Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway is a 140 mile short line located within North Carolina. Founder and Chairman Robert Menzies talks to us about his philosophy with establishing the railroad, how they transformed a locomotive into a "bar car", and their plans with a recently acquired steam locomotive.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What is your greatest rail experience, or an accomplishment you are proud of, from 2025?
Did you know that Conrail still exists today? Though primarily known as a major Class I railroad in the Northeast US from the 70s to 90s, Conrail still exists as a shared asset operation jointly owned by Norfolk Southern and CSX. Current President Brian Gorton started with the pre-merger Conrail in the 80s. He shares his perspective on how Conrail has evolved, experiences from his time working for Union Pacific, and how he was involved with the George H. W. Bush Funeral Train.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What is an example of relatively modern railroad history (post-1980) that you find fascinating?
R Duck Locomotive Works is a company specializing in creating laser-cut wooden kits depicting real locomotives and rolling stock. Founder and owner Tripp Aquadro talks about his inspiration for the business and how he develops his products.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
Other than model railroading, what are your favorite train toys?
In 2027, the B&O Railroad Museum will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Executive Director Kris Hoellen discusses the projects at the museum, how their volunteers are revitalizing the buildings on their site, and why she sees the anniversary as a year for collaboration between heritage railroads and museums.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Photo by Wallstreethotrod.
Question of the Day
What pieces of pre-1900 railroad history interest you the most?
Talyllyn Railway Media Manager Luke Ryan joins us to discuss how the railway has progressed since we last featured it on the podcast, the importance of interpreting the Rev. Awdry's work, and why hosting meaningful events for fans matters.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What makes you feel a sense of belonging with your railroad club, group, or organization?
What does operating a big mainline steam locomotive like Santa Fe 3751 on the west coast require? Alex Gillman, VP of the San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society, joins us to talk about the work required to restore and operate the locomotive, along with how they are developing a museum.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What impresses you about your favorite mainline steam organization?
The National Railroad Museum in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is expanding its museum facilities. CEO Jacqueline Frank joins us to discuss the history of the museum, how they successfully transported their "Dwight D. Eisenhower" locomotive back to the UK for an event in 2014, and their approach to showcasing the national history of railroading in the United States.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What is a notable example of museums or heritage railroads collaborating to create a great event?
Chuck Baker, President of American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, talks about the state of the short line railroading in early 2025, how the organization is involved in advocacy for the industry, and the growing trend of freight railroads entering tourist railroading.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
What short line or regional railroad impresses you?
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The interviewer is interviewed! Guest host Kelly Lynch asks your questions for regular host Nick Ozorak about the history of the podcast, what continues to motivate his work, and why he is so optimistic about Next Generation Railroaders.
Attend Next Generation Railroaders' first virtual public programming: https://www.nextgenrr.org/programs
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
Are there any other questions you have for me, Nick Ozorak?
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Tony Hatch, Senior Transportation Analyst for ABH Consulting, provides us with a greater understanding of the financial landscape of Class I railroading in the 21st century.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman
FRA Administrator Joe Szabo
Question of the Day
What are you excited for in 2025?
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 152: Transportation Analyst Tony Hatch appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Host Nick Ozorak pays tribute to Britt Allcroft, creator of the Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends TV series. He explores not just what her greatest contribution means to him, but what he see as some of its larger endearing outcomes.
Related Episodes
Thomas and Rail Preservation
Mike O’Donnell: Thomas the Tank Engine Composer
The post In Memoriam: “Thomas & Friends” TV Creator Britt Allcroft appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Let’s learn more about the largest trolley museum in the United States. Scott Becker has been at the helm of the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum for over 30 years. In that time, the museum has grown by expanding its collection and constructing two massive buildings. Scott walks us through the history of the museum, how preserving trolleys differs from other forms of rail preservations, and what has led to the museum’s success.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
PA Trolley Museum Founder Art Ellis
Steel City Limited Adventure
Question of the Day
What tourist railroads and museums have balanced keeping their charm with progressing with the times?
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 151: Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Executive Director Scott Becker appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
American Heritage Railways oversees such notable tourist railroads as the Durango & Silverton, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and Branson Scenic Railroad. Al Harper, Chairman and CEO, shares his decades of insight in what makes a tourist railroad function, how Polar Express has become such a staple in the industry, and the importance of balancing history with progress.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Cass Scenic Railroad
Question of the Day
What tourist railroads and museums have balanced keeping their charm with progressing with the times?
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 150: Al Harper and American Heritage Railways appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Loni Martz Briner, PR and Media for North Shore Railroad, talks about the history of this group of Pennsylvania short lines and how they are celebrating their 40th Anniversary.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
Women in Short Line Railroading
Mississippi Export Railroad
Question of the Day
What railroad do you know of or work for that is good with connecting to its local communities?
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The post 149: North Shore Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
What is involved with leading the Federal Railroad Administration? Joe Szabo, the 12th FRA Administrator, discusses how he began his career in railroading, what led him to the FRA, his philosophy with working with Class I railroads, and how he is now involved in the development of Pullman National Historical Park.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman
Steamtown National Historic Site
Question of the Day
Is there some special way that we should celebrate 10 years and 150 episodes of The Roundhouse?
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 148: FRA Administrator Joe Szabo appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
What is involved with leading the Federal Railroad Administration? Joe Szabo, the 12th FRA Administrator, discusses how he began his career in railroading, what led him to the FRA, his philosophy with working with Class I railroads, and how he is now involved in the development of Pullman National Historical Park.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Question of the Day
Is there some special way that we should celebrate 10 years and 150 episodes of The Roundhouse?
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
What is it like to be at the helm of a railroad that has remained independent for over 100 years? Mississippi Export Railroad President Kate Bourgeois talks about the history of the railroad and how they invest in their company and community.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
*Related Episodes*
Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad
Women in Short Line Railroading
*Question of the Day*
*What is one particularly special interaction that you have had working or volunteering for a tourist railroad or museum?*
*Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!*
The post Mississippi Export Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Bob LaPrelle, President and CEO of the Museum of the American Railroad, talks about moving their massive collection of locomotives from Dallas to Frisco, restoration of a rare ALCO PA-1, and the goals for their capital campaign.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Artwork by John Winfield.
*Related Episodes*
California State Railroad Museum
Railroader’s Memorial Museum
*Question of the Day*
*What is one particularly special interaction that you have had working or volunteering for a tourist railroad or museum?*
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, *share this episode with at least one person today*, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 146: Museum of the American Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Join us for a conversation with Arkansas & Missouri Railroad President Caren Kraska, Cathcart Rail Senior VP of Sales and Marketing Vanessa Knapton, and Senior VP of Law and General Counsel for ASLRRA Sarah Yurasko. They discuss their careers in the short line railroad industry, how they are working to cultivate interest in the field, and where they are seeing opportunities for growth.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
WNYP General Manager Kylie McLaughlin
Volunteering in Rail Preservation
PanelistsCarol Kraska
Caren is the chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad. With over 18 years of railroad industry experience in operations, marketing and finance, she became chairman of the board effective April 2015. Her railroad career began with Conrail in 1979 where she worked in the Mechanical Engineering Department, Marketing, Industrial Development, and Sales.
Under her leadership, the A&M has expanded transload and warehousing operations; she has also brought new customers to the railroad. Her diverse background and experience offers a fresh perspective on rail business development and customer service. The A&M values its customers and works diligently with them to find a shipping solution to meet their specific needs. The Arkansas and Missouri Railroad is strategically located with a great potential to grow.
Safety is a critical component of the operation with ongoing reviews and safety program enhancements. With a continued focus on rail infrastructure integrity; a grant was awarded to upgrade three bridges, including the Arkansas River lift span bridge. She is honored to have the opportunity to lead the Arkansas and Missouri team to focus on the continued safety of its team members, serving our customers, and improving our local community.
Ms. Kraska is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation, and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Stanford University.
Vanessa Knapton
Vanessa works for the largest independent railcar repair network in the US. She oversees the business development for Cathcart’s Field Services Division, where her teams function as car departments for short line railroads. With over 50 partnerships to maintain, Knapton functions as the liaison between host railroads and the repair operating teams.
Knapton started in the railroad industry as a switchman-conductor for the Santa Fe (later BNSF) in Los Angeles, California in 1994. She had graduated from Smith College with a bachelor’s degree in government and economics. Knapton worked for four years as a union operations employee and had her first two children. In 1998, Knapton was promoted to Assistant Trainmaster at the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles.
As Trainmaster, Knapton helped design the operations systems at BNSF for the massive influx of container business in the first international intermodal boom from 2000 to its height in 2006. During her tenure as trainmaster, Knapton completed an MBA program with an emphasis on finance at Chapman University and had her third child.
Knapton and BNSF parted ways in 2008 and Knapton worked in warehouse logistics and for a railroad shipper until she joined an early entrant in a niche market of the short line railroad railcar repair business in 2011. For the last dozen years, Knapton has worked for three of the largest running repair agent companies in the country and has established 25+ repair operations at railroads that previously did not have car inspection teams.
Sarah Yurasko
Sarah Yurasko is Sr. Vice President Law & General Counsel with the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). In this position, she advises on all legal matters for ASLRRA and represents the short line industry nationally on policy matters. Prior to ASLRRA, she worked at the Association of American Railroads as Assistant General Counsel, focusing on safety law issues.
She previously worked at Amtrak on high-speed rail planning and policy development. She started her career as a trial attorney in the Office of Chief Counsel at the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). While at the FRA, Ms. Yurasko completed the Executive Potential Program through the Graduate School USA, a leadership development program that provides training and developmental experiences for high potential employees.
She earned a JD from American University’s Washington College of Law and an MA in International Affairs from American University’s School of International Service. She also has a BA in French and a BFA in Theatre Arts from Southern Methodist University.
She currently resides in Spotsylvania, Virginia, with her husband and five children.
*Question of the Day*
*For those who have worked in the railroad industry, what have you found rewarding, and what has been challenging?*
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, *share this episode with at least one person today*, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 145: Women in Short Line Railroading appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
We’re talking to Curtis Koch, Director of Marketing and Social Media for Broadway Limited Imports, about how they view the model railroading business, their process for their projects, and some of their upcoming products.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
Related Episodes
Rapido Trains
Kathy Millatt & The Great Model Railway Challenge
Question of the Day
What are some of your favorite model trains that have ever been produced?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 144: How Broadway Limited Imports Produces Model Trains appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Lake State Railroad CMO Roger Fuehring provides clarity on the EPA’s regulations concerning diesel locomotives and how they affect tourist railroads and museums.
Related Episodes
Puffing Billy Railway – Sustainability and Success
Marketing in Rail Preservation
*Question of the Day*
*What are topics that you would like me to cover on the podcast?*
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
The post 143: Understanding the EPA Rules with Diesels (w/ Roger Fuehring) appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Lake State Railroad CMO Roger Fuehring provides clarity on the EPA's regulations concerning diesel locomotives and how they affect tourist railroads and museums.
Question of the Day
What are topics that you would like me to cover on the podcast?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Why were canal boats being hauled by train over mountains? Park Ranger Elizabeth Shope provides an overview of the Allegheny Portage Railroad of Pennsylvania, its role in westward expansion, and how the National Park Service has worked to preserve what remains.
Related Episodes
Steamtown National Historic Site
California State Railroad Museum
Question of the Day
What is an underrated technological marvel in railroading?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 142: Allegheny Portage Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse Podcast.
Why were canal boats being hauled by train over mountains? Park Ranger Elizabeth Shope provides an overview of the Allegheny Portage Railroad of Pennsylvania and how the National Park Service has worked to preserve what remains.
Question of the Day
What is an underrated technological marvel in railroading?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
We interview Alexandra Kitty, author of "A Different Track: Hospital Trains of the Second World War", about the forgotten history of hospital trains, their role in WWII, and the healthcare workers who staffed them.
This episode is sponsored by the Mechanical Services department of the Strasburg Rail Road.
Question of the Day
What is a piece of railroad history that is often overlooked?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
More episodes: https://theroundhousepodcast.com
Mark Rheaume, composer of "That's the Way the Railroad Went" discusses how he created a 38 minute piece of music incorporating interviews documenting the Central Iowa Railway Company, a short line with a brief existence in the 1970s.
Listen to Mark's piece: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Onx6JMOBP2A
Question of the Day
What is your favorite musical piece about railroading?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
What is it like to paint official portraits of Lionel Trains? We are talking to Angela Trotta Thomas about her Lionel (and real train) paintings, her process of creating a scene, how she infuses her work with nostalgia, and her advice for getting into painting.
See more of Angela's paintings: https://www.angelatrottathomas.com/
Question of the Day
Going into the new year, what are you excited about?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
How did the idea for the 2023 excursions in Central Virginia come about? What logistics are required to put excursions together? Is converting Norfolk & Western 611 to oil burning being discussed? How can you become involved in future excursions? Zac McGinnis, Excursion Manager for the Virginia Museum of Transportation, answers these questions and more.
Question of the Day
What are your favorite holiday railroad memories?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
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National Model Railroad Association President Gordy Robinson and Social Media Manager Lucy Dormont join us for a full conversation about the challenges facing the organization and the work they are involved with to bring it into the future.
Question of the Day
What gives you hope in the future of model railroading?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Learn about the preservation work that Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum is involved with, the opportunities and challenges of being based in central Portland, and how they use events to maximize their community outreach.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
What piece of narrow gauge history do you enjoy most?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Rob Gardner, President of American Steam Railroad Preservation Association, provides updates on the restoration of Reading Railroad T-1 2100 and what is planned for the future. This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions. Related Episodes…
The post 135: Reading 2100 – American Steam Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Rob Gardner, President of American Steam Railroad Preservation Association, provides updates on the restoration of Reading Railroad T-1 #2100 and what is planned for the future.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
What steam locomotive restoration are you most excited about?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The Puffing Billy Railway is a world famous tourist railway near Melbourne, Australia. CEO Peter Abbott speaks with us about the importance of the people connected to it (staff, volunteers, and community), how the railway works to overcome challenges, and…
The post Puffing Billy Railway – Sustainability and Success appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Puffing Billy Railway is a world famous tourist railway near Melbourne, Australia. CEO Peter Abbott speaks with us about the importance of the people connected to it (staff, volunteers, and community), how the railway works to overcome challenges, and what it means to operate it sustainably.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
If you've visited the Puffing Billy Railway, what was your experience like? If not, what is the furthest that you've traveled to ride on a particular train?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The Yosemite Valley Railroad was a connection between the Southern Pacific and Yosemite National Park that brought tourists in by the thousands, and it also hauled a considerable amount of freight. Jack Burgess is dedicated to understanding the history and…
The post 133: Yosemite Valley Railroad – Modeling a Historic Rarity appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Yosemite Valley Railroad was a connection between the Southern Pacific and Yosemite National Park that brought tourists in by the thousands, and it also hauled a considerable amount of freight. Jack Burgess is dedicated to understanding the history and operations of the railroad, and has even interviewed past employees. He shares the history of this railroad with us, along with answering the question of how he has remained so focused on this particular railroad for over 40 years!
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
What is your favorite obscure railroad, and why?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
IMAX film director Stephen Low talks about the process of making Train Time, a documentary looking at the operations of BNSF Railway. He shares how this project was different from Rocky Mountain Express, the methods used to capture some of the amazing shots in the film, and the challenges that were unique to this project.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Related Episodes
Rocky Mountain Express
Southern Railway 4501 Documentary
Question of the Day
What is your favorite example of a train on film?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 132: Train Time! Interview with Director Stephen Low appeared first on The Roundhouse.
IMAX film director Stephen Low talks about the process of making Train Time, a documentary looking at the operations of BNSF Railway. He shares how this project was different from Rocky Mountain Express, the methods used to capture some of the amazing shots in the film, and the challenges that were unique to this project.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
What is your favorite example of a train on film?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The Flour by Rail Project is a unique effort to present Buffalo NY’s industrial history in conjunction with its railroads. Charlie Monte Verde, VP of Genesee Valley Transportation and Luke Irvine, Director of the Buffalo USA Foundation, talk about this project’s history, accomplishments so far, and their ultimate goals for the site. Charlie also gives us a sneak peak at what to expect with GVT’s recent purchase of a rare ALCO PA locomotive.
Learn more about Flour by Rail.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Preorder First of Its Kind – The Buffalo Creek Railroad, Volume 1.
Related Episodes
Carl Belke – President of Delaware & Hudson and Western New York & Pennsylvania
Tri-State Railroad Historical Society
Question of the Day
What example of preserving an industrial site are you enthusiastic about?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 131: Flour by Rail Project appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Flour by Rail Project is a unique effort to present Buffalo NY's industrial history in conjunction with its railroads. Charlie Monte Verde, VP of Genesee Valley Transportation and Luke Irvine, Director of the Buffalo USA Foundation, talk about this project's history, accomplishments so far, and their ultimate goals for the site. Charlie also gives us a sneak peak at what to expect with GVT's recent purchase of a rare ALCO PA locomotive.
Watch this episode on YouTube.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Preorder First of Its Kind – The Buffalo Creek Railroad, Volume 1.
Question of the Day
What example of preserving an industrial site are you enthusiastic about?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
How can you market your tourist railroad, museum, or non-profit organization more effectively? Eric Mencis, Operations Manager for Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, Joey Bryan, Communications Manager for Nashville Steam Preservation Society, and Hal Raven, Owner of the Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway, discuss their approaches to marketing and advertising their businesses and organizations.
Watch this episode on YouTube below:
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Related Episodes
Volunteering in Rail Preservation
Interview with Kelly Lynch: Fort Wayne, Headwaters Jct., and FMW Solutions
Question of the Day
When have you donated to a cause or visited a tourist railroad or museum specifically due to the marketing?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
About the Panelists
Eric Mencis has worked professionally in railroad preservation since 2008. Starting his career working concessions on the Durango & Silverton, while obtaining a degree in Tourism & Hospitality at the same time. Eric has used his knowledge and degree for several different originations now, such as the Skunk Train, The Nevada Northern, the Maine Narrow Gauge and the Western Railway Museum. Most notable Eric is known for bringing fame to Dirt the Cat and seen first hand what Dirt brought to the overall business operations of the Nevada Northern. Now Western Maryland’s new operations manager Eric is currently developing a marketing campaign, customer service strategies and operations plan to take the railroad to the next level.
Hal Raven has been in the railroad industry for 26 years, beginning his career at the Batten Kill Railroad. Train and boats have always been a love of his, and his wife, son and daughter all love helping with their scenic railway and tour boat business on Saratoga Lake. In 2022, they began operating the Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway based out of Corinth NY.
Joey Bryan is a native of Franklin, Tennessee and spent his adolescence visiting No. 576 in Centennial Park. Joey is a preservationist, historian, and writer with a passion for saving America’s industrial heritage. He earned a B.A. in History from the University of Alabama in 2012 and a M.A. in Public History from Middle Tennessee State University in 2015. While at MTSU, he worked as a research assistant at the Center for Historic Preservation.
In the summer of 2013, Joey interned at the Virginia Museum of Transportation during the kickoff of the “Fire Up 611!” fundraising campaign. He worked for the museum the following year as Assistant Communications Manager assisting with social media, marketing, and media relations during Norfolk & Western 611’s first excursion season. Because of his involvement with the 611 restoration effort, Joey wrote his master’s thesis on the economic and interpretive benefits of collaborative partnerships between railroads and non-profit organizations for the operation of steam-powered excursions.
Joey’s ties to Nashville railroading date back to his great-grandfather who worked for the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway as a clerk in the general office building on Broadway. Joey also serves as Historian & Communications Manager for Nashville Steam.
The post 130: Marketing in Rail Preservation appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Do you have questions regarding how to get volunteers into rail preservation? Where to find them? How to make them feel like part of a team? Our panel consisting of Wiscasset Waterville and Farmington Railway Trainmaster Ed Lecuyer, Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society Volunteer Coordinator Christopher Homco, and Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Volunteer Coordinator Kristen Fredriksen answers your questions!
Watch this episode on YouTube below:
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Related Episodes
Millennials and Rail Preservation
Passing the Torch without Getting Burned
About the Panelists
- Chris Homco joined the world of historic railroad operation and preservation in 2016. Throughout his journey in historical and tourist railroading, he has been involved with many operations and restoration projects all over the eastern and midwest United States in a multitude of capacities. He has planned, brought to reality, and led excursions for The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, The Mad River & NKP Museum, and The New River Train, later, the Autumn Colors Express. He has worked on restoration and projects such as UP no. 4012, WMSR no. 1309, and others. He is currently employed by the Indiana Northeastern Railroad and the Cincinnati Scenic Railway and is the Membership and Outreach Manager for the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society. His one goal is to protect and preserve our country’s industrial heritage. He resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Kristen Fredriksen is a lifelong museum aficionado from Atlanta. She previously worked at the Delta Flight Museum and Southeastern Railway Museum before coming to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in 2019. Her museum background includes everything from coordinating Hollywood productions and appearing on-air discussing transportation history to managing 125 dedicated volunteers and developing digital content. (She enjoys painting space-themed nail art and shopping at discount German grocery store chains.)
- Since he began volunteering at Maine’s Wiscasset, Waterville, and Farmington Railway Museum in 2001, Trainmaster Ed Lecuyer has consistently served the WW&F in a wide variety of capacities and capabilities. Currently, his responsibilities include public train operations, passenger ticketing, fundraising, and volunteer engagement. Professionally, Ed is a Technical Product Manager for Trimble Forestry, where he oversees digital mapping solutions and customer support. He is also an accomplished musician in liturgical and novelty styles.
Question of the Day
What questions do you have about marketing a tourist railroad, museum, or project fundraiser?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
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Do you have questions regarding how to get volunteers into rail preservation? Where to find them? How to make them feel like part of a team? Our panel consisting of Wiscasset Waterville and Farmington Railway Trainmaster Ed Lecuyer, Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society Volunteer Coordinator Christopher Homco, and Pennsylvania Trolley Museum Volunteer Coordinator Kristen Fredriksen answers your questions!
Watch this episode on YouTube.
This episode is sponsored by Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services and Rail and Road Auctions.
Question of the Day
What questions do you have about marketing a tourist railroad, museum, or project fundraiser?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Cass Scenic Railroad is a gem of a tourist railroad in West Virginia. Director of Communications Walter Scriptunas II talks about the history of the line, how they keep their steam logging locomotives operational, and what the future holds with their rebuilt rail connection between Durbin and Cass.
Cover photo by Walter Scriptunas II.
More podcast episodes: https://theroundhousepodcast.com
Thank you to our sponsor: https://mechanical.strasburgrailroad.com/
Related Episodes
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad
Top Ten Railfan Travel Items
Question of the Day
What panel discussions would you like to see take place on The Roundhouse?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 128: Cass Scenic Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Cass Scenic Railroad is a gem of a tourist railroad in West Virginia. Director of Communications Walter Scriptunas II talks about the history of the line, how they keep their steam logging locomotives operational, and what the future holds with their rebuilt rail connection between Durbin and Cass.
Cover photo by Walter Scriptunas II.
More podcast episodes: https://theroundhousepodcast.com
Thank you to our sponsor: https://mechanical.strasburgrailroad.com/
Question of the Day
What panel discussions would you like to see take place on The Roundhouse?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Do you remember watching Pentrex? The company produced many hour-long videos showcasing different railroads around the continent. One consistent and crucial element of these was the narrator who would describe the history and scenes unfolding. Dave Drui is that narrator, and he talks with us about how he became involved with these productions and why they have made him appreciate trains and railroads even more.
Related Episodes
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad
Visiting Norfolk & Western 611 at the Strasburg Rail Road
Question of the Day
What’s one of your favorite railfan VHS tapes?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The post 127: Pentrex Narrator Dave Drui appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Do you remember watching Pentrex? The company produced many hour-long videos showcasing different railroads around the continent. One consistent and crucial element of these was the narrator who would describe the history and scenes unfolding. Dave Drui is that narrator, and he talks with us about how he became involved with these productions and how they have made him appreciate trains and railroads even more.
Question of the Day
What’s one of your favorite railfan VHS tapes?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
At 102 years old, Art Ellis shares many memories from living in Pittsburgh, riding trolleys, working for Pittsburgh Railways, and helping to found the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Related Episodes The Scrapper who Saved Steam Railroad Photographers Lucius Beebe and Charles…
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At 102 years old, Art Ellis has many memories from living in Pittsburgh, riding trolleys, working for Pittsburgh Railways, and helping to found the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum.
Question of the Day
What’s your favorite piece of trolley or interurban history?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
We're continuing to trade spaces with the California State Railroad Museum. Coordinator of Exhibits and Interpretive Programs Kim Whitfield shares some highlights of their impressive collection, how they are embracing digital tools to showcase it, and the significance of storytelling in railroad history.
Question of the Day
What’s your favorite piece of California Railroad history?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in the next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad is returning to operation. Western Forest Industries Museum Executive Director Bethan Maher shares her vision of reopening the railroad, how it can represent the history of the Pacific Northwest, and why it’s important to so many…
The post Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad Returning to Operation appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad is returning to operation. Western Forest Industries Museum Executive Director Bethan Maher shares her vision of reopening the railroad, how it can represent the history of the Pacific Northwest, and why it's important to so many people.
Question of the Day
If you've been to Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, what was your experience like?
If not, what is your favorite logging locomotive?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
We are “trading spaces” with the California State Railroad Museum’s “The Roundhouse Crosstalk Podcast” by featuring their episode on noted railroad photographers Lucius Beebe and Charles Clegg. Tony Reevy, author of “The Railroad Photography of Lucius Beebe and Charles Clegg,”…
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We are "trading spaces" with the California State Railroad Museum's "The Roundhouse Crosstalk Podcast". We are featuring their episode on noted railroad photographers Lucius Beebe and Charles Clegg. Tony Reevy, author of "The Railroad Photography of Lucius Beebe and Charles Clegg," discusses their impact on railroad photography and how they managed to maintain an openly gay relationship in the 1940s and 50s.
Question of the Day
Who is your favorite railroad author?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
How does one use railroading in meaningful ways to make people happy and strengthen communities? Ken Marty, President of West Coast Railroaders Group, discusses how his company uses speeder cars for everything from fire suppression to partnering with the Make…
The post West Coast Railroaders Group appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How does one use railroading in meaningful ways to make people happy and strengthen communities? Ken Marty, President of West Coast Railroaders Group, discusses how his company uses speeder cars for everything from fire suppression to partnering with the Make a Wish Foundation to provide children with unforgettable experiences.
Question of the Day
What is an event or organization (doesn't have to be related to railroading) that you’ve been part of that benefitted your community?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
The Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is a premiere dining experience in New Hampshire. Owners Ali and Michael French are here to describe the experience of dining on rails, explain how they prepare meals on the train itself, and share why…
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The Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is a premiere dining experience in New Hampshire. Owners Ali and Michael French are here to describe the experience of dining on rails, explain how they prepare meals on the train itself, and share why they enjoy being in the business.
Question of the Day
What's the best experience you've had dining on a train?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Port Jervis NY will soon be home to the Port Jervis Transportation History Center. Carolyn Hoffman, President of Operation Toy Train, discusses this new site, what it means for rail preservation in the region, and what you can expect to…
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What does it take to create an entire musical album on a train? Musician and composer Cheryl B. Engelhardt created her latest album “The Passenger” on a cross-country Amtrak adventure and shares her process with us. Learn more about Cheryl…
The post New Age Album Created on Amtrak Train Trip appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What does it take to create an entire musical album on a train? Musician and composer Cheryl B. Engelhardt created her latest album "The Passenger" on a cross-country Amtrak adventure and shares her process with us.
Question of the Day
What music do you associate with a great train journey?
Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
We talk with Kelly Lynch about his involvement in Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, Headwaters Jct., and FMW Solutions, along with the importance of inclusivity and looking out for others. Related Episode Joliet Rocket Nickel Plate 765 Adventure Question of…
The post Kelly Lynch: Fort Wayne, Headwaters Jct., and FMW Solutions appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Dr. Robin Coombes returns to the podcast to discuss earning his Ph. D in Railway Heritage from the University of Birmingham and the thesis he developed as part of his program. He shares the successes and shortcomings of rail preservation…
The post Dr. Robin Coombes’ Thesis on Heritage Railways appeared first on The Roundhouse.
A rare auto carrier caboose from the Auto-Train is in danger of being scrapped. FLAIRR President Mark Frazier explains how his organization is campaigning to save the car and transport it from California to Florida. Learn more about how you…
The post MINI 07: Saving Auto-Train #3 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Wiscasset Waterville & Farmington Railway is one of the sole-surviving “Maine Two Foot” railroads. Director of Marketing & Visitor Interaction Coordinator Stephen Piwowarski discusses the restoration of the railway, their current projects, and what has led to their successes.…
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In its first two months on the market, Railroads Online has generated a great deal of interest for its multiplayer gameplay, mixture of business management and operations, and focus on steam and narrow gauge railroading. We talk to the developers…
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Luke Pickman is a multi-instrumentalist who is reinterpreting the classic music of Thomas & Friends. Known as Instrument Maniac on YouTube, he pieces videos of himself playing multiple instruments to create a virtual orchestra. We talk to him about how…
The post Luke Pickman: Interpreting the Music of Thomas & Friends appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Mike O’Donnell, composer for Thomas & Friends, joins us to discuss how he became involved with the TV series, his process for developing music that would fit the characters, collaborating with Junior Campbell, and what the legacy of the show…
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What happens when a group of guys get together and say “We should build a Pennsylvania Railroad T1 from scratch”? General Manager Jason Johnson walks us through the history of the Pennsylvania Railroad T1 Trust project, the selection of the…
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Come along for the ride as we visit N&W 611 during its 2021 visit to the Strasburg Rail Road. We’ll interview crew members regarding the operation of the locomotive and experience the sights and sounds of the engine as it…
The post 111: Visiting N&W 611 at the Strasburg Rail Road appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Steamtown National Historic Site is well known today, but what led to its creation? Who was F. Nelson Blount, and what exactly was his vision? Rick Kfoury, author of “Steam Trains of Yesteryear: The Monadnock, Steamtown & Northern Story”, shares…
The post Monadnock Steamtown & Northern – Early Steamtown appeared first on The Roundhouse.
It’s time for those of us in rail preservation to put an end to sexism. Host Nick Ozorak released a survey for women to anonymously share their stories of sexism, harassment, and discrimination. We hear from these women, and Nick…
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What does passenger rail advocacy require? We talk with Christopher Parker, Executive Director of Vermont Rail Action Network, about what is helping passenger rail expand in Vermont and how the ‘hybrid’ Budd Cars of AllEarth Rail may be part of…
The post 109: Rail Advocacy in Vermont appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona PA has announced that they are initiating a campaign to restore Pennsylvania Railroad K4s #1361 to operation. Join us as we attend the press conference and ask Wick Moorman and FMW Solutions President Davidson…
The post PRR K4s #1361 Will Be Restored appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Wisconsin Great Northern is restoring the Mark Twain Zephyr trainset, but there’s more to this operation than meets the eye. Director of Passenger Development Robert Tabern and CMO Nick Turinetti talk about this historic trainset, the railroad’s freight and…
The post Mark Twain Zephyr and the Wisconsin Great Northern appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What is LARP, and what does it have to do with rail preservation? Claus Raasted, an experienced organizer of Live Action Role Playing events, discusses what it is and how it “places you inside a movie”. He shares the history…
The post LARP – Live Action Role Play and Historic Railroading appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Scott Jarrett became the Chief Mechanical Officer of the Cincinnati Scenic Railway while under the age of 30. He reflects on his journey which includes time with the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus Train and Amtrak. He shares what…
The post 105: Becoming a Chief Mechanical Officer under 30 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
God’s Wonderful Railway is a BBC TV series that tells the history of a Great Western Railway branch line through the perspective of children who lived and worked in each era. Avril Rowlands, the author and screenwriter for the series,…
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The Lincoln Funeral Train returns to the podcast. General Superintendent Steve Torrico discusses the plans for this new railroad showcasing the Leviathan steam locomotive and how these replicas showcase 1860s railroad technology. Related Episodes David Kloke & Lincoln Funeral Car…
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Rail historian Steve Patterson explains the history of the Ski Train, a Colorado railroad legacy. We’re celebrating the train’s 80th Anniversary with Railfan and Railroad Magazine. Related Episodes CVSR Observation Car Adventure Iowa Pacific Hoosier State Question of the Day…
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What makes a tourist railroad or museum appealing to the general public? Elizabeth Newcamp, family blogger at Dutch Dutch Goose, shares stories about her family’s experiences with train travel and her Top 5 tips for tourist railroads and museums. Consider…
The post 101: Learning from a Traveling Railfan Family appeared first on The Roundhouse.
We brought together past Roundhouse guests as chosen by you and asked them your questions. Amtrak Engineer Mike Huhn, Strasburg Rail Road Director of Business Development Andrea Biesecker, and East Broad Top Foundation Board Member Bennett Levin join us for…
The post Episode 100: Panel Discussion with Selected Guests appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad President John Bush talks about this Colorado Narrow Gauge Railroad, restoring vintage equipment, and preserving the authentic west. Check out this incredible short film about the railroad and John: This episode was sponsored by Age…
The post Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Railroad photographer Dennis A. Livesey discusses his career in film production, how that translates to his hobby of railroad photography, and what led to creating his book “Smoke over Steamtown” documenting scenes from Steamtown National Historic Site. Related Episodes Center…
The post 098: Dennis A. Livesey: Railroad Photographer appeared first on The Roundhouse.
In Part 2 of our interview with Wick Moorman, the former CEO of Amtrak discusses his philosophy with managing the passenger railroad, why he largely agrees with the business practices of Richard Anderson, and his hopes for the East Broad…
The post Wick Moorman: Amtrak CEO Interview appeared first on The Roundhouse.
In Part 2 of our interview with Wick Moorman, the former CEO of Amtrak discusses his philosophy with managing the passenger railroad, why he largely agrees with the business practices of Richard Anderson, and his hopes for the East Broad…
The post Wick Moorman: Amtrak CEO Interview appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Executive Director Joe Defrancesco talks about this Altoona treasure, the Horseshoe Curve, PRR K4s #1361, and why preserving the stories of railroaders is a key component of the Railroaders Memorial Museum. Related Episodes Railfan Bed & Breakfast – Station Inn…
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We interview Wick Moorman, former CEO and Chairman of Norfolk Southern and CEO of Amtrak, about how he began his railroading career, what led to him eventually leading Norfolk Southern, the 21st Century Steam Program, Heritage Units, and so much…
The post Wick Moorman: Norfolk Southern Interview appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How is the hobby of model railroading doing from the perspective of one of its largest manufacturers and suppliers? Stacey Walthers Naffah, President of Wm. K. Walthers Inc., a longtime Milwaukee-based distributor, manufacturer, and retailer of model trains, shares her…
The post 094: Walthers Trains – President Stacey Walthers Naffah appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What compels someone to build fantastic routes in a train simulator? Joe from the YouTube channel Approach Medium discusses why he loves virtual railroading, his many route projects, and how it compares to model railroading. Check out Approach Medium on…
The post 093: Approach Medium and Trainz Railroad Simulator appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Want to learn the story of O. Winston Link and his famous steam photography project? O. Winston Link Museum Manager Lynsey Allie details his history and how the museum that bears his name maintains his legacy. Vote for which guests…
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It’s amazing to think that the show is nearing 100 episodes. I am fortunate to have talked with so many fascinating people from around the world about this hobby that we love. Sharing those conversations with you is a true…
The post The Big 100: Select the Guests appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ed Note: This report was written by Ed Lecuyer, who hosted Wandering Spirit during the Fall of 2019. The next day we visited the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and then went to the Stewartstown Railroad to meet another celebrity railroader. As seen…
The post Wandering Spirit: Another Historic Journey appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What was it like working for railroads like the Erie Lackawanna and the Delaware & Hudson? Steve Vaughan Sr., a railroader with over 40 years in the industry shares stories from his career and how he fired steam locomotives like…
The post 091: Delaware & Hudson Engineer appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The East Broad Top, a historic narrow gauge railroad in central Pennsylvania, has been purchased by a new nonprofit organization. Brad Esposito, General Manager for the railroad, discusses the future of the EBT and what it will take to restore…
The post 090: East Broad Top Being Restored to Operation appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ed Note: This report was written by Ed Lecuyer, who hosted Wandering Spirit during the Fall of 2019. On September 15, I accompanied Wandering Spirit on a whirlwind tour of my current home state, New Hampshire. Our goal was to…
The post Wandering Spirit: Meet Norfolk & Western 611 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How does someone from the world of air transportation transition into railroading? Bob Lowe, owner of three private railcars, talks about how he began investing in commercial shortlines, what led him to own three passenger cars, and how he uses…
The post 089: Private Car Owner Bob Lowe appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ed Note: This report was written by Ed Lecuyer, who hosted Wandering Spirit during the Fall of 2019. I was surprised when a mysterious package arrived at my Manchester, New Hampshire doorstep on September 4, 2019. It had come from…
The post Wandering Spirit: New England in the Fall appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Are you planning your basement railroad empire? Curious on how an expert compresses entire railroad locations and operations into a small space? Dan Bourque has designed hundreds of train layouts over the past 20 years, and these can be seen…
The post 088: How to Design a Model Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The world of railroading is full of interesting operations. Industrial railroads, tourist railroads, Class I mainlines, and shortline freight haulers are among the many that we love to watch, photograph, and in some cases, replicate through model railroading. The challenge…
The post Building a Virtual Train Layout appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Many preservation efforts have conquered hardship, but how many can say they have triumphed over a flood? Colin O'Brien of the Mid-Continent Railway Museum walks us through the extensive collection, restoration projects including Chicago & Northwestern #1385, and how they persevered through a devastating flood in 2008.
The post 087: Mid-Continent Railway Museum appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What is the story of the Waynesburg & Washington Railroad, and how is its history preserved today? Jim Weinschenker, railroad liaison at the Greene County Historical Society, introduces us to this narrow gauge Pennsylvania shortline, how its history connected with…
The post 086: Waynesburg & Washington Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
First, an introduction. You may remember that one year ago, we launched a project to ensure an HO-scale passenger car could travel around the United States. Last summer, I handed the car off to Dan S., an Australian listener of…
The post Wandering Spirit: Back in the US appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How does the Strasburg Rail Road balance its tourist railroading with hauling freight? Steve Weaver, VP of Freight Services, presented at the Heritage Rail Alliance on how the railroad maintains this harmony. This episode is sponsored by Age of Steam Roundhouse, a working roundhouse…
The post 085: Strasburg Rail Road Freight Traffic appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What would a competition series about model railroading look like? Kathy Millatt, skilled modeler and YouTube video maker, served as a judge on “The Great Model Railway Challenge”, a British TV series which had modelers build a small layout over…
The post Kathy Millatt & The Great Model Railway Challenge appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Two Norfolk & Western steam locomotives will be reunited this fall, and you can be there for the multi-weekend event. Stationmaster Steve Barrall shares details about what led to having Norfolk & Western 611 visit the Strasburg Rail Road this…
The post 083: Norfolk & Western 611 at the Strasburg Rail Road appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What treasures does the Age of Steam Roundhouse hold? We’re talking with Executive Director Noel Poirier about the steam locomotive collection of the late Jerry Joe Jacobson, the dream of having a full roundhouse and locomotive shop realized, and what…
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What is the Center for Railroad Photography and Art? President and Executive Director Scott Lothes talks about how this nonprofit’s work to preserve photos of railroading in the past is a key part of rail preservation. Learn more about the…
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Take a ride in a streamlined dome observation car. See what the newest equipment on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad has to offer travelers!
The post 080: CVSR Observation Car Adventure appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Teddy Wilson, host of the TV Series “Mighty Trains,” talks about the adventures he takes on the show, what was most memorable from Season 1, and what to expect in Season 2! Related Episodes Rapido Trains 50 Years of Australian…
The post 079: Mighty Trains appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What makes the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad unique? We talk with President and CEO Joe Mazur about Budd passenger cars, newly-acquired ex-California Zephyr cars, and what makes their partnership with the National Park Service succeed. Spirit Railcar Our car has…
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What will it take to bring Erie-Lackawanna SDP45 3639 from the Virginia Museum of Transportation to a new home in Youngstown? Rick Rowlands, President of Youngstown Steel Heritage, announces this new campaign exclusively on The Roundhouse!
Support us on Patreon, Subscribe on iTunes, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
What does it take to form a tourist railroad in the 21st Century? Allentown & Auburn Railroad President Mike Bast talks about getting this railroad started and what steam locomotive they will be restoring. Related Episodes Coalition for Sustainable Rail…
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What does it take to form a tourist railroad in the 21st Century. Allentown & Auburn Railroad President Mike Bast talks about what it took to get this railroad started and what steam locomotive they will be restoring.
Related Episodes
Coalition for Sustainable Rail
Grand Canyon Railway
Question of the Day
What is your favorite tourist railroad? Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Support us on Patreon, Subscribe on iTunes, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Does your railroad museum or preservation group has a good succession plan? Strasburg Rail Road President Linn Moedinger shares his insight as he prepares to pass his own job onto the next generation. Related Episodes Strasburg Rail Road – Linn…
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We count down the Top 5 train movies with Nick Ozorak and guest host Chris Eden Green from Steam Locos in Profile. Will yours be on the list? Related Episodes Rocky Mountain Express Steam Locos in Profile – Chris Eden…
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Show host Nick Ozorak attended the HeritageRail Alliance Spring 2018 Conference at the Strasburg Rail Road. In this presentation by railroad historian Kurt Bell, we learn about what it takes to engage millennials in railroad preservation. Related Episodes Strasburg Rail…
The post Millennials and Railroad Preservation – HRA Presentation appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Amtrak has announced major changes prohibiting private charters and excursions to operate. We discuss the issue with Roger Fuehring, the President of the Railroad Passenger Car Alliance (RPCA). Related Episodes The Joliet Rocket Steel City Limited
The post MINI 05: Amtrak Excursions At Risk appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Can you imagine what it would be like to take a jet powered train up to a world-record-setting speed? We’ll talk with Don Wetzel who helped design and pilot the M497 to over 180 MPH back in 1966! Related Episodes…
The post Jet-Powered Train: The Story of M497 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Details emerged this week from a town in Texas that planned to scrap its displayed steam locomotive. Jason Sobczynski talks about the last-minute appeal put together to find it a new home and restore it.
Learn about the campaign by clicking here.
Support us on Patreon, Subscribe on iTunes, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
Coalition for Sustainable Rail The Coalition for Sustainable Rail is focused on two projects: researching a plant-based coal substitute, and restoring steam locomotive Santa Fe 3463. Where are they at on each of these projects? President of CSR Davidson Ward…
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Kylie McLaughlin – General Manager and Asst. Vice President of Operations What does it take to run a shortline railroad in the 21st Century? Kylie McLaughlin answers this question, talks about using ALCOs in modern revenue service, and how women…
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We’ll take a look ahead at 2018, hear some suggestions for future episodes from you, and reveal some upcoming projects and surprises! 2017 Highlights Robin Coombes The Great Train Robbery The Joliet Rocket Support us on Patreon, Subscribe on iTunes,…
The post MINI 04: Let’s Look Ahead at 2018! appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What can rail preservation learn from a simulator about Titanic? Project Director Tom Lynskey walks us through the research and development of Titanic: Honor and Glory and how it showcases the oceanliner’s history from a very different perspective. Learn more…
The post Titanic: Honor and Glory appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Growing up with the Pennsylvania Railroad, Bennett Levin would later go on to own a PRR Observation Car used by John F. Kennedy and original E-Unit locomotives. He shares his love of providing rare-mileage excursions, providing Veterans with an unforgettable…
The post Bennett Levin and the Fleet of Memories appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How do you create a museum that encapsulates a steel mill in just 1.2 acres? Rick Rowlands, President of Youngstown Steel Heritage, shares his story about founding the museum, collecting priceless machinery including a tank engine, and constructing an industrial railway to showcase this history!
Related Episodes
Saving the Last Logging Railroad
Steel Manufacturing and Railroads
Question of the Day
If you only had a small amount of land, what museum would you create? Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
Support us on Patreon, Subscribe on iTunes, share this episode with at least one person today, and remember that The Roundhouse is Our House!
What will it take to save the last operational logging railroad in the US? The Peninsular Railway and Lumberman’s Museum, a new nonprofit organization, has formed to save the Simpson Railroad, and President Josh Kaivo joins us to share what…
The post Saving the Last Logging Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How do railroads make steel? Bernard Kempinski, author of “The Model Railroader’s Guide to Steel Mills,” walks us through the entire process and how you can create a model railroad steel mill! This episode was a listener request from Donald…
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We’re traveling aboard a steam excursion taking us back in time unlike any other. Join us as Nickel Plate Road 765 takes its passengers, crew, and reenactors from Joliet to Chicago. For this episode, we’ve ‘backdated’ our sound to make…
The post The Joliet Rocket – NKP 765 Excursion appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Bring Back 757! A campaign to return Nickel Plate 757 to its hometown of Bellevue, Ohio is launching today. Vice President of the Mad River & Nickel Plate Railroad Museum Dwayne Fuehring discusses the details of transporting such a massive locomotive…
The post Bring Back 757 – Campaign Launch appeared first on The Roundhouse.
See what happens when the Axis and Allied forces battle for control of a train…all during a WWII reenactment at the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad. It’s a WWII Train Battle unlike any other! This is our first episode simulcast…
The post MINI 03: WWII Train Battle appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Great Train Robbery is a myth and legend that still impacts popular culture. But what exactly did happen to the Royal Mail train on the night of August 8th, 1963? Author Nick Russell-Pavier walks us through the mysteries, mistakes,…
The post 062: The Great Train Robbery appeared first on The Roundhouse.
When Orion Newall-Vuillemot needed storage for his Ford riding mowers, he did what any 15 year old would do…buy a 1930s Boston & Maine boxcar, transport it to his house, and begin a full restoration. Hear his incredible story about…
The post Saving a Boxcar at the Age of 15 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Look at his photos and you would assume the work of someone who has spent decades in photography. However, Robin Coombes only began exploring photography seriously in 2006. He shares his perspective on railway photography, historic photo charters, and his…
The post Robin Coombes: Railway Photographer appeared first on The Roundhouse.
As Chief Designer of MSI’s Great Train Story layout exhibit, John Llewellyn explains the design process, how a train layout can tell a story, and fitting skyscrapers underneath a full-size Boeing 727! Related Episodes: Museum of Science & Industry Part…
The post 059: Great Train Story (Museum of Science & Industry Part II) appeared first on The Roundhouse.
FULL EPISODE President Linn Moedinger grew up with the Strasburg Rail Road from his childhood. He recalls early experiences, including how the first weed wacker also ‘got rid of the ties’!
The post MINI 02: Strasburg Rail Road’s Early Days appeared first on The Roundhouse.
058: Museum of Science and Industry MSI’s collection includes the Pioneer Zephyr streamliner, New York Central #999, and a replica of Stephenson’s Rocket. Director of Collections and Head Curator Kathleen McCarthy shares how this history is brought to life and…
The post 058: Museum of Science and Industry appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Today I’m announcing the launch of our Patreon campaign. This is your chance to unlock cool bonuses while helping The Roundhouse to grow! Thank you for all of your support so far. It is because of you that we…
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FULL EPISODE Rich Melvin shares a couple of stories from his time as Senior Engineer of Nickel Plate 765, including how he impressed supervisors who underestimated what the steam locomotive could do.
The post MINI 01: Rich Melvin & Nickel Plate 765 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
In this shorter episode, Vice President Kevin Phalon and Treasurer Richie King, (both under 25 years old) join us to discuss the Tri-State Railway Historical Society’s purchase of Morristown & Erie 19, an ALCO C424 built in 1964. They tell…
The post 057: Tri-State Bought an ALCO appeared first on The Roundhouse.
We’re riding on the Hoosier State! We take one last ride while Iowa Pacific was operating the train to experience the wonderful equipment and on-board service. Along the way, we talk to the crew to hear about what they’ve taken…
The post 056: Iowa Pacific Hoosier State appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Have you ever wanted to own a private railcar, and what is it like to travel in one? AAPRCO President Bob Donnelly describes the organization, what cars he co-owns, how he enjoys the annual convention trains, and the difference between…
The post 055: American Association of Private Rail Car Owners (AAPRCO) appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Australian iron ore trains are the ‘Mad Max’ of railroading. Jim Ward takes us through his 50 years of working for a variety of Australian and New Zealand railways, his favorite types of locomotives, and the longest train in the…
The post 50 Years of Australian Railroading appeared first on The Roundhouse.
One of the best parts of the winter holidays is that it brings community businesses and organizations together to create unique events. We follow the Western New York & Pennsylvania Santa Train, talking with the crew and the community along…
The post 053: Western New York & Pennsylvania Santa Train appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Bessemer & Lake Erie has been hauling iron ore to fuel America’s steel production for over 100 years. Learn about its history and why it means so much to local railfans and workers as we begin to explore its…
The post 052: Bessemer & Lake Erie Railroad – History and Preservation appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What is the National Model Railroad Association, and how do they help the hobby? President Charlie Getz talks about the organization, the work they do, and where the hobby is headed for the future. Related Episodes: Rapido Trains – Jason…
The post 051: National Model Railroad Association appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Southern Railway 4501 Documentary Director Evan Lofback set out to create a Ken Burns-like documentary about the return of mainline steam excursions in the south and the people who made it happen. In particular, this professional feature-length film features Southern…
The post 050: Southern Railway 4501 Documentary appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Luxury Rail Travel invited us to ride a former Pennsylvania Railroad observation car from the 1950s. Make yourself comfortable in the lounge as we travel from New York to Pittsburgh on the Steel City Limited, talking with crew and passengers…
The post 049: Steel City Limited Adventure appeared first on The Roundhouse.
We’re going for a Nickel Plate 765 cab ride! Climb aboard as we talk with the crew and hear the sounds of this massive locomotive at work. Notably, we interview Rich Melvin on one of his last runs in his…
The post 048: Nickel Plate 765 Cab Ride appeared first on The Roundhouse.
How does the National Park Service bring railroad history to life? Debbie Conway talks about the Steamtown NHS, its history, and details her plans for what she wants to see in the future. 2016 Roundhouse Survey & Northeast Corridor Giveaway!…
The post Steamtown – Superintendent Debbie Conway appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What does it take to promote and celebrate Amtrak’s past and present? Lead Brand Communications Specialist Matt Donnelly joins us to share how he built his career with Amtrak, the story behind the Heritage Units, and what trips he has…
The post 046: Amtrak and its Heritage appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What compels someone young to enter the world of print publishing in the 21st Century? We talk with Rudy Garbely (founder) and Richard King (author) from Garbely Publishing about their work and the histories they are exploring. In particular, we…
The post 045: The Next Generation of Rail Publishers appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Train Festival 2011 Woodstock for railfans. That’s one way of describing it. Instead of The Who, there were the Amtrak Heritage P42s. In place of Janis Joplin was the Nebraska Zephyr. Instead of Crosby, Still, Nash & Young, we had…
The post The Rock Concert of Railroading – Train Festival 2011 appeared first on The Roundhouse.
“If you’re a railfan, here you’re not strange. Here you’re a part of the gang automatically. You fit right in, and that makes our guests very comfortable”. We chat with Tom Davis, innkeeper for the Station Inn about his 22…
The post 044: Railfan Bed & Breakfast – The Station Inn appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Barry Scrapyard 297 British steam locomotives were sent to Woodham Brothers scrapyard in Barry. 213 survived into preservation. How did one man make all of this possible? Author, historian, and preservationist Roger Hardingham shares the incredible story of Barry Scrapyard,…
The post The Scrapper who Saved Steam appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ride along with us as we travel on Budd Cars from the 1950s. We’ll be traveling from Pottsville to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, talking with passengers and crew, and exploring the history of the anthracite region. Here’s your ticket, so climb…
The post Budd Car Adventure – Reading & Northern appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine The RDC Adventure episode will be coming soon. As part of the same trip, I visited the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Ashland, PA to get my steam fix. This site used to be a working…
The post Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine appeared first on The Roundhouse.
K&L Trainz How do you digitize a steam loco? Steve Lerro of K&L Trainz talks with us about creating 3D computer models of steam locomotives for Trainz Railroad Simulator, how he hired famous voices for his promo videos, and why…
The post Digitizing a Steam Locomotive with K&L Trainz appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Illinois Railway Museum Have you ever been to a railway museum that covered steam, diesel, and electric railroad history? Marketing Director Ed Rosengren takes us on a virtual tour of the Illinois Railway Museum, discusses their newly purchased turntable, and…
The post 040: Illinois Railway Museum appeared first on The Roundhouse.
039: Teen Restoring a McKeen Railcar McKeen Railcar – Madison Kirkman At the age of 15, Madison Kirkman embarked on a journey to save and restore one of the last remaining McKeen Motor Cars in existence. Now 17, he shares…
The post 039: Teen Restoring a McKeen Railcar appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Want to ride a train to the Grand Canyon? Grand Canyon Railway CMO Eric Hadder talks about the trip you’ll experience, the historic nature of their steam locomotives, the return of #29, and how he entered the railroad industry. …
The post 038: Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Where steam has reigned for two decades, Gen. Superintendant John Garner shares the details about maintaining and operating locomotive #734, restoring C&O 1309, and how their foundation works to connect people to the industry. Western Maryland Scenic Railroad John has…
The post 037: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Snowdonia: Railway Board Game What does it take to design a board game about building a railway? Game Designer Tony Boydell talks about his game Snowdonia, how it was inspired by a real cog railway, and how these games bring…
The post 036: Snowdonia: Railway Board Game appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ozark Mountain Railcar How do you sell a passenger car? We talk with John Suscheck, Founder and CEO of Ozark Mountain Railcar, about being a railroad equipment broker, the challenges and rewards of buying this equipment, and how the phases…
The post 035: Ozark Mountain Railcar appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Niagara Hobby & Craft Mart What does it take to run a hobby store in the 21st Century? John Kavulich, President of Niagara Hobby & Craft Mart in Cheektowaga NY, joins us to discuss the triumphs and trials of the…
The post 034: The Resilience of Niagara Hobby appeared first on The Roundhouse.
5 Railfan Dating Tips Dating a railfan is a fun and rewarding experience. In five years of dating ‘The Roundhouse’ host Nick Ozorak I have learned the ways of a railfan. Now I want to share my experience and thoughts…
The post 5 Railfan Dating Tips and Ideas appeared first on The Roundhouse.
First, I hope you had an excellent holiday season, and that the New Year is starting off well. I apologize for the delay in releasing the next episode of ‘The Roundhouse,’ as I am currently waiting for clearance before our…
The post They Brought a Crane appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Thomas the Tank Engine & Rail Preservation Thomas the Tank Engine is beloved by millions of children around the world, but we tend to think of it solely as a ‘kid’s show’. Today, we talk with Ryan Hagan, administrator for…
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Thomas the Tank Engine is beloved by millions of children around the world, but we tend to think of it solely as a 'kid's show'. Today, we talk with Ryan Hagan, administrator for the Sodor Island Forums, about how The Railway Series was based in actual British railway history, how it has helped rail preservation, and why it still matters today.
Sodor Island Fansite
Sodor Island Blog
Thomas Episode - Escape
Related Episodes:
Linn W. Moedinger – President of the Strasburg Rail Road
Steam Locos in Profile - Chris Eden-Green
Question of the Day Did you grow up with Thomas? How do you look back on it now? Let me know and I will respond to your comments in our next episode.
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Are you ready for a steam-powered adventure? We’re attending Strasburg Rail Road’s Steampunk unLimited weekend to learn more about the Steampunk culture and the many ways it connects to railroading. This episode includes interviews with performers, vendors, and convention attendees,…
The post Steampunk unLimited – Strasburg Rail Road appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Chris shares how his love of trains led him to create Steam Locos in Profile, why he enjoys presenting on-camera, and how he successfully crowdfunded his Season 1 DVD. This episode is sponsored by the Strasburg Rail Road. Click here…
The post Steam Locos in Profile – Chris Eden-Green appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad – President Carl Belke talks with us about his 40+ year career in the railroad industry, including his tenure at the Delaware & Hudson, why he prefers ALCOs, and how the WNYP participated in…
The post 029: WNYP Railroad President Carl Belke appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Jointed Rail – Founder Mike Cyr Train simulators are serious(ly fun) business. Mike Cyr, head of two train sim development companies (Jointed Rail and Crosstie Studios), joins us to discuss his history with producing content for Trainz Railroad Simulator, what…
The post 028: Jointed Rail – Founder Mike Cyr appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Milwaukee Road 261 – Steve Sandberg The Chief Operating Officer of the Friends of the 261 (owners of steam locomotive Milwaukee Road 261) joins us to talk about the history of preserving this locomotive, its role in the film ‘Public…
The post Milwaukee Road 261 – Steve Sandberg appeared first on The Roundhouse.
We’re traveling behind steam locomotive Nickel Plate Road #765 from Youngstown to Ashtabula and back. On the way, we’ll talk to crew from the Fort Wayne RR Historical Society, passengers, and spectators. Here’s your ticket, so climb aboard! Nickel Plate…
The post Nickel Plate 765 Adventure appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Strasburg Rail Road – Andrea Biesecker As the Assistant Contract Administrator, Andrea talks about working for the Strasburg Rail Road, explains the work she provides for steam locomotives, and describes the ‘Culture of Steam’. This episode is sponsored by the…
The post 025: Strasburg Rail Road – Andrea Biesecker appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Firewoman and engineer Rikki talks about being part of ‘The Lone Ranger’ movie crew, working on steam locomotives big and small, and her advice with connecting to a tourist railroad. This episode is sponsored by the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical…
The post 024: Rikki Burchett appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ever wonder what it’s like to be the editor for Trains Magazine? Jim tells you what he looks for in a good railroad story! Jim Wrinn Interview Jim began reading Trains Magazine at the age of 6. His parents bought…
The post 023: Trains Magazine Editor Jim Wrinn appeared first on The Roundhouse.
NRHS Convention, Batman breaking the law, Bessemer & Lake Erie, and more! I’m riding solo today to talk about my latest adventures and share some photos! News Amtrak has donated AEM-7 #915 to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. This veteran…
The post 022: 2015 NRHS Convention and Other Recent Adventures appeared first on The Roundhouse.
As I am still in Vermont for the NRHS Convention, there is no episode for today (June 20th). A new episode will be released next Saturday, so stay tuned!
The post New Episode Next Saturday appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Steam locomotive in IMAX! Starring CP 2816, Rocky Mountain Express tells the tale of constructing the Canadian Transcontinental Railroad. Director Stephen Low joins us to discuss his career in documentary filmmaking, what led to the creation of this film, and…
The post 021: Rocky Mountain Express – Director Stephen Low appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Canadian Pacific #2860 has led an interesting history, and at 75 years old it is about to embark on a new chapter. West Coast Railway Association’s President Emeritus Don Evans visits us to share details about this locomotive’s restoration, what…
The post 020: Restoring a Royal Hudson appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Union Pacific always had a thing for powerful locomotives. Big Boy. Challenger. GTEL Turbine. The Centennials continued that tradition by taking two EMD 645E3A prime movers and fitting them onto one locomotive frame. The result is a 98 ft 5…
The post The Largest Diesel Locomotive Visits Pittsburgh – DDA40X appeared first on The Roundhouse.
This past weekend, Norfolk & Western J-Class 4-8-4 pulled its first excursion trip in over 20 years and returned under its own power to its hometown of Roanoke VA. This was an immensely popular event in both the railroad and…
The post Fire Up 611…on Your Computer! appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Train simulators are often thought of as means of replicating modern railroading, but how can they be used to convey railroad history? Content creator and route builder Paul Charland (Fonda Johnstown & Gloversville Railroad, Dominion Atlantic Railway) talks with us…
The post 019: Historic Railroad Simulation – Paul Charland appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Having talked with David Kloke about the construction of the Lincoln Funeral Car, I was eager to see it upon completion. This past weekend I had my chance at the Lorain & West Virginia Railroad in Wellington. When I arrived,…
The post Lincoln Funeral Train – My Visit appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Did you know about the Simpson Railroad? This logging railroad in the wilderness of Washington state is the last in the United States. Now, the Simpson Railroad faces an uncertain future due to the company which owns it shutting…
The post 018: The Last Logging Railroad appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Summer is almost here. What should you pack for your next railfanning trip? I share my Top Ten suggestions, along with introducing you to the Rail U.S.A. maps by Bella Terra Publishing. We’ll also be discussing the recent derailment of…
The post 017: Top Ten Railfan Travel Items, Rail U.S.A. Maps appeared first on The Roundhouse.
As you know, preserving railroad history of the 19th Century is difficult due to the limited amount of equipment which has survived for so long. Steam Into History Inc. provides a unique opportunity for you to connect with the Civil…
The post 016: Steam Into History appeared first on The Roundhouse.
In Episode 14, the Question of the Day was: If you work for or volunteer with a tourist railroad or railway museum, what do you enjoy most about it? My most recent railroad-related volunteer position was as a Model Railroad…
The post Volunteering with a G-Scale Railroad – Phipps Conservatory appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Ever since it was announced that Reading T1 #2100 would be restored to operation, many of you have raised questions about the condition of the locomotive, what the restoration will require, and what the future of the locomotive holds. Kelly…
The post 015: Reading 2100 – Kelly Lynch appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Association of Tourist Railroads and Railway Museums (ATRRM) is the result of a recent merger between two rail preservation organizations. We learn more about what they do, how they help organizations in the industry, and why they want to…
The post 014: 2015 ATRRM Spring Conference, Backyard Railroading appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Last weekend, I interviewed Chris Price from the Talyllyn Railway in Tywyn, Wales. It was such a treat to hear more about one of my favorite tourist railways, and it took me back five years to my first visit with…
The post The Talyllyn Railway – My Visit appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Wales is a country of beautiful countryside, and with equipment that is over 150 years old the Talyllyn Railway takes you back in time in this landscape. General Manager Chris Price talks about how the railway became the first preserved…
The post 013: Talyllyn Railway 150th Anniversary appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Last week, you read about my visit to the National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. After said visit, I decided to take the Capitol Limited back home to Pittsburgh. The trip started out less than optimally. Because of…
The post Ridin’ on Amtrak’s Capitol Limited appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Washington D.C. Our nation’s capitol has a long railroad history, so it is fitting that a significant portion of its “America on the Move” display is devoted to trains. Before you even arrive at that exhibit, though, there’s a famous…
The post National Museum of American History – My Visit appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Fire Up 611! campaign has been a tremendous success so far, with the locomotive nearing completion to operation. Chief Mechanical Officer Scott Lindsay provides us an update on the restoration of this locomotive, an overview of the campaign beyond…
The post 011: Fire Up 611! Scott Lindsay appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Roundhouse is Our House, and having topics requested by you on the show is highly important to meet that goal. Many of you have been curious about what it is like to work for a Class I Railroad, so…
The post 010: Your Career with Norfolk Southern (Part 2) appeared first on The Roundhouse.
The Roundhouse is Our House, and having topics requested by you on the show is highly important to meet that goal. Many of you have been curious about what it is like to work for a Class I Railroad, so…
The post 009: Your Career with Norfolk Southern (Part 1) appeared first on The Roundhouse.
There is no doubt to the significance of President Lincoln’s role in American history. David Kloke tells us about completing the funeral train and building Leviathan, a 19th century 4-4-0 steam locomotive. News Huffington Post ran a great article about how…
The post 008: Lincoln Funeral Train – David Kloke appeared first on The Roundhouse.
This past weekend I visited my friend Ed Cronin to operate his layout one last time before he moves. Operating trains on someone else’s layout is always a treat, even though this visit was bittersweet. The Bessemer & Lake Erie…
The post Layout Tour: Ed Cronin’s Bessemer & Lake Erie Layout appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Can you imagine starting up your own model train manufacturing business? What models would you produce, and how would you run it? Jason tells us about the founding of Rapido Trains, an HO and N-Scale manufacturing company, and why humor…
The post 007: Rapido Trains’ Jason Shron – Manufacturing Model Trains appeared first on The Roundhouse.
In the heart of Lancaster County, the Strasburg Rail Road provides a unique railroad experience for the public. Steam locomotives pull wooden coaches through beautiful farmland on a regular basis, and events like Day Out with Thomas and Steampunk Unlimited…
The post 006: Strasburg Rail Road President Linn Moedinger appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Before we get started on what to expect for March, I want to thank all of you who have listened to the show so far, sent comments and feedback, and shared the show with friends and family. We have had…
The post Next Episode Premieres March 7th appeared first on The Roundhouse.
If you are a railfan, you’ve been to a train show. They are a unique opportunity to meet people in the hobby, buy new and used equipment, and take in the beautiful club layouts. I have always had fun going…
The post 005: Greenberg’s Train Show appeared first on The Roundhouse.
What is it like for someone outside of the hobby of model railroading to explore it, capture it on film, and create a feature-length documentary about it? Filmmaker Sara Kelly shares with us her experience working on “Model Citizens” over…
The post Episode 004: Model Railroading Documentary with Sara Kelly appeared first on The Roundhouse.
Nickel Plate Road #765 has become a steam celebrity in the railroad and railfan community. What is it like to be this locomotive’s engineer? Rich Melvin shares his experience as Senior Engineer of NKP 765, as well as being CEO…
The post Episode 003: Nickel Plate Road #765 Senior Engineer Rich Melvin appeared first on The Roundhouse.
If you were asked by a railroad to be their company photographer, would you say yes? Casey Thomason works for one of the largest Class I railroads in the country and shares what life is like being on the road,…
The post Episode 002: Official Norfolk Southern Photographer Casey Thomason appeared first on The Roundhouse.
As we embark on this railroad journey, it’s important to establish who I am, what the show is, and how you will become part of it. Related Episodes: The Scrapper Who Saved Steam Strasburg Railroad – Andrea Biesecker News Our…
The post Episode 001: What is the Roundhouse? appeared first on The Roundhouse.
You may not realize it yet, but you have begun a unique rail journey. The Roundhouse is a podcast designed to bring you the most interesting news, stories, and interviews about the railroad industry, the hobby, and more. If you…
The post First Episode Premieres on February 7th! appeared first on The Roundhouse.