Iron City Roundhouse Report

Episode 21 of Season 2 (OCS Volume 4) features guests Dave Abeles and Todd Treaster discussing real-world railroad operations — mainlines, specials, locals and branch lines — and how those practices translate into compelling model railroad sessions.

They cover train names and missions, Conrail-era service, staging and scene design, research sources, and practical tips for building believable operations in small or large layouts.

In this surprise bonus episode Pat and Brad share quick shout-outs to community members, updates on layout projects, and announce upcoming show dates and meetups (Monroeville Greenberg, Erie, Buell show, Locomotion weekend, and plans for the Amherst show).

They also preview Season 3 starting in January, encourage listeners to share videos and join the Iron City community online, and thank fans for their continued support.

In this episode, Bradd and Pat sit down with two key leaders from the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA)—Standards and Conformance Manager Andy Zimmerman and Achievement Program Manager Ray Persing.

Together, they dive into some of the biggest news and developments shaping the hobby today, including the record-breaking T-TRAK layout in Chattanooga, the introduction of the new Modular Railroading Achievement Program certificate, and the NMRA's recent decision to reduce annual dues to $50. The discussion also explores the mechanics of T-TRAK operations, layout portability, guest hobby origins, and what these changes mean for the future of model railroading.

Join Pat and Brad for Episode 19 of the Iron City Roundhouse Report as they preview fall showcases featuring Yardmasters, layout tours, remote ops, and practical tips for modelers at every stage.

Upcoming showcases from: Tom's (Split Rock Mining Company), Jimmy's (Wheeling & Lake Erie East End), Pat's (Conemaiugh Valley Branch), Richard's (Long Valley Branch) — viewer's choice), and Todd's (NYS&A Pittsburgh division).

Season 2, Episode 18 — “Historic Summer” Bradd and Pat welcome Kasandra Ortiz, communications manager at Norfolk Southern, for a conversation packed with railfan energy. They dive into the excitement surrounding the Big Boy tour, the railroad’s 250th anniversary commemorative locomotives, and how railfans have helped bring communities together during a landmark summer.

They also explore Norfolk Southern’s safety outreach — from the Safety Train to Operation Lifesaver partnerships — and how the railroad works with first responders and the public to promote awareness and rail safety.

🎙️ Season 2, Episode 17 — Mike DeSensi Returns!

OG guest Mike DeSensi now president of the Ohio Valley Lines, is back to talk club life, layout building, and what it takes to keep the hobby thriving. Pat and Bradd dig into community events, module shows, and how clubs can welcome new members into the fold.

The episode also spotlights hands‑on creativity: DIY projects like a Wi‑Fi DCC throttle with 3D‑printed cases, fun modeling experiments including a K4 with a Sodor‑style face, and practical tips for anyone looking to join or visit a model railroad club or open house.

Season 2, Episode 16 brings together hosts Pat Moore, Bradd Williamson, and guest co‑host Kevin Squire as they sit down with Tim Mallon to preview the upcoming Altoona N‑Scale Weekend, happening September 12–13, 2026. They revisit last year’s record turnout, highlight returning vendors and clinics, dig into T‑Track layouts and evening events, and spotlight the Iron City N‑Scale Club’s charity T‑Track contest supporting the SPCA.

Listeners can head to https://www.theaamr.org and the club’s social pages for registration info, t‑shirt and badge deadlines, vendor updates, clinic announcements, and everything needed to join the community for a full weekend of model railroading fun.

Episode 15, Bradd and Pat interview John Oh, an N-scale modeler who discusses his modular work, club involvement (T-Trak, Fremo N, N-Trak), and upcoming events. He explains differences between module standards, his preference for fall/winter "dead season" modeling, and how he transports and stores modules.

John highlights the Model Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania's Model Railroading Days (Aug 15–16) where he'll run T-Track alongside museum rolling stock, and shares tips for shows like Altoona, Amherst, and local gatherings.

🚂 Iron City Roundhouse Report 🚂

Join hosts Brad and Pat for Part 2 of our in-depth series on steel mill modeling!

Part 2 is packed with expert tips on modeling steel mills, designing realistic mill scenes, and improving railroad operations in and out of the mill. We also dive into a lively Roundhouse Report, recapping an unforgettable railfanning weekend following the Big Boy through Derry and Pittsburgh.

🚂 Episode Highlights:
• Expert insights on steel mill modeling and operations
• Layout visits and behind-the-scenes discussions
• Locomotive troubleshooting stories
• An unexpected "trash train" encounter
• Community meet-ups at Esther's Hobby and much more!

Whether you're a seasoned model railroader or simply enjoy railfanning and railroad history, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for practical modeling advice, memorable stories from the rails, and plenty of inspiration for your next layout.

🚂 Iron City Roundhouse Report 🚂

Steel is taking center stage!

Join hosts Brad and Pat for Part 1 of an in-depth series on steel mill modeling. They explore the different types of steel mills, explain the basic steelmaking process, and discuss how understanding the prototype can help you design more realistic and believable model railroad layouts.

Along the way, they also talk about:
🔹 Why this topic became a multi-part series
🔹 Upcoming episodes on the Pi Sprog and LCC
🔹 T-TRAK events and the latest news from Altoona
🔹 Tips for modeling material handling and creating realistic steel loads

Whether you're planning a steel mill, modeling heavy industry, or simply enjoy learning how the prototype works, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🎙️🚂 Season 2, Episode 12

This episode of the Iron City Roundhouse Report is all about getting the most out of your model railroad budget!

Join special guests Clem Harris and Freddie Mac as they share their experience finding great deals, including auction strategies, eBay research tricks, and ways to spot value in the secondary market.

From brass and rolling stock to locomotives and accessories, we talk about where to look, how to research prices, and how to make smart purchases without breaking the bank.

We also dive into:
🔹 Quality locomotives vs. budget options
🔹 The value of DCC and affordable decoder choices
🔹 Clubs, testing, and learning from fellow modelers
🔹 Must-have tools like programmers and power cabs

Plus, we bring you the latest Iron City Roundhouse Report updates with member highlights, event announcements, and upcoming theme weekends!

Whether you’re a longtime model railroader or just getting started, this episode is packed with tips to help your hobby dollars go further.

Episode 11 — "Yardmasters" brings together 3D printing hobbyists and small-business owners from across North America to discuss getting started, safety, tools, and real-world workflows. Guests share practical tips for home and commercial printing, including resin vs. FDM differences, finishing techniques, and essential accessories.

The episode also explores the real costs and benefits of 3D printing for model railroading, including time investment, design work, and when printing makes sense versus buying commercial models.

Experts discuss printing methods (resin vs FDM), marketplaces like Shapeways, painting and finishing techniques (priming, airbrushing, washes, dry-brushing), and tips for preserving fine detail.

Guests also cover business and hobby trends: custom one-off pieces, scaling across HO/N/G, tooling for T-Track, and the future potential of full-color desktop 3D printing.

🚂 One year down — and the celebration continues!

Join the Iron City Roundhouse Report for Part 2 of their one-year anniversary special as hosts Brad, Pat, Kevin, and Uncle Dave look back on an incredible year of railfan memories, stories, and community moments alongside the Iron City Young Guns — Blake George, Jimmy Braum, and Connor Deardoff.

The crew revisits favorite segments like the office car specials, dives into Pittsburgh-area railroad history, shares modeling stories, and even sparks a few DCC debates along the way.

A major focus of the episode is the anticipation surrounding Union Pacific’s legendary Big Boy — covering possible routes, photo locations, railfan logistics, and tips for handling crowded events. The group swaps steam excursion memories, talks railroad operations, and plans meetups to experience the action together.

More than anything, this episode highlights the community behind the hobby: mentoring new modelers, storytelling through freelance and prototype layouts, and showing appreciation for the listeners and contributors who helped make the first year such a success.

From the excitement surrounding steam’s return to the East Coast to upcoming events in Altoona and beyond, this episode is packed with the passion, friendships, and unforgettable moments that bring train enthusiasts together.

PS Kevin gets a new nickname

🎙️ Don’t miss this milestone episode filled with laughs, memories, and plenty of railroad talk.

🚂 Brad and Pat celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Iron City Roundhouse Report! This special anniversary episode reunites returning guests — modelers, YouTube creators, historians, and T-Track organizers — as they revisit favorite moments, unforgettable layout stories, and the incredible growth of the community over the past year.

The discussion covers some of the biggest topics in the hobby today, including rising prices, buying on the secondary market, micro layouts, freelancing, sound and electronics projects, and exciting upcoming events like Altoona and the Big Boy tour. The crew also previews the massive T-Track record layout and shares ideas for showcases, club displays, and local meetups.

Most importantly, Brad and Pat want to thank all of the listeners, guests, and supporters who helped make the first year such a success. From memorable interviews to deep hobby conversations, the Iron City Roundhouse Report continues to bring railroad fans together from around the world.

Be sure to join the Iron City Facebook community to share your layouts, projects, tips, and stories 🚆

Brad and Pat head to LA to talk with Bob Frein and Frank Hinojosa from Iron City West about their model railroading journeys and what’s trending on the West Coast.

We get into:
• Santa Fe, SP & Union Pacific modeling
• Clubs like Belmont Shores
• LCC & NCE control systems
• T-Track modules
• Mentoring the next generation of hobbyists

Plus—don’t miss details on the Southern California N-Scale Show:
📅 May 30, 2026
⏰ 9 AM – 5 PM
🎟️ FREE admission
❤️ Fundraiser supporting a church children’s group

Season 2, Episode 7 🚂

Pat and Bradd are back with Office Car Special: Volume 3, joined by special guests Todd Treaster and Dave Abeles!

From decades of real railroad experience to unforgettable railfanning stories, this episode dives deep into:
• Railfanning safety tips every fan should know
• Favorite hotspots like Horseshoe Curve, Crescent, and Lewistown
• How prototype railroads inspire model layouts
• Tools of the trade—scanners, online feeds & more
• The impact of heritage units on the hobby

We’re also celebrating a huge milestone—10,000 downloads! 🎉

Plus:
👉 Community highlights & modeler spotlights
👉 A preview of the Burnham Rally (April 11), featuring Iron City T-Track and Todd’s NYS&A layout

Whether you’re trackside or working on your layout, this one’s packed with insight, stories, and inspiration.

🚂 Iron City Roundhouse Report – Part 2: Ron’s Social Media

Bradd and Pat are back with special guest Ron Marsh from Ron’s Trains N Things for Part 2 of this great conversation! This episode dives into Ron’s perspective on the connection between model railroading and social media—and how that relationship is shaping the hobby today.

They also go behind the scenes of Ron’s YouTube channel, breaking down what’s really driving its success.

Plus, the crew brings you the latest Roundhouse Report, featuring two upcoming events you won’t want to miss:
📍 Clinton Central Spring Train Meet – March 22
📍 Rally in Burnham – April 11

All aboard—don’t miss it! 🚆

🚂 Iron City Roundhouse Report – Part 1: Ron’s Layout

In this episode of the Iron City Roundhouse Report, hosts Brad, Pat, and Todd welcome special guest Ron Marsh from Ron’s Trains N Things for a great conversation about his model railroading journey.

Ron shares details about his layout, including standout features, scenic techniques, and the section of the layout he enjoys the most. The crew also covers the latest Roundhouse Report, highlighting two upcoming events:
• The Clinton Central Spring Train Meet – March 22
• The Rally in Burnham – April 11

Todd also gives an update on the progress of his steel mill project.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where the guys dive deeper into Ron’s YouTube channel, modeling tips, and his social media presence!

Iron City Roundhouse Report – Season 2, Episode 4

Hosts Brad and Pat sit down with three leading online auctioneers—Bill Jenkins of East/West Model Train Auctions, Ross Palabeski of NorCal Train Auctions, and Garrett Metcalf of Midwest Train Auctions—for an inside look at the fast-growing world of N-scale online sales.

The group shares how they got started selling N-scale equipment online, why they favor direct social-media auctions over large retail platforms, and how they source inventory through private collections, train shows, and industry networking.

They also break down auction formats, bidding strategies, shipping practices, scheduling, and the loyal community that has formed around their sales. Whether you're a seasoned bidder or new to online train auctions, this episode offers practical tips on participating—and insight into what makes a sale truly successful.

Bradd and Pat also share community news in the Roundhouse Report, including calls for a southeast Michigan N‑Scale group, updates from the East Broad Top, details on the Morgantown model show, and the Burnham rally.

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In this episode of the Iron City Roundhouse Report, Bradd and Pat welcome accomplished HO‑scale modeler Tom Jacobs, whose work is deeply rooted in the railroad heritage of Reading, Pennsylvania. Tom takes listeners inside his meticulously crafted 1970s Reading Division layout, a project inspired by his family’s long-standing connection to the Reading Railroad.

Tom walks us through the design and operation of his layout, which centers on the east–west Cross Line and the heavy industrial traffic that once fed Bethlehem Steel. He shares how he approaches operational sessions, implements CTC signaling, and continues to expand scenery and structures across the layout.

Listeners will enjoy Tom’s insights into:

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Prototype‑based operating practices

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Balancing realism with practicality in model railroading

Tom also offers thoughtful advice for modelers of all experience levels: stay curious, embrace new tools and technologies, ask questions, and—most importantly—make a little progress on your layout every day.

Whether you’re a Reading Railroad enthusiast, an operations‑focused modeler, or simply love hearing from passionate hobbyists, this episode delivers inspiration and practical wisdom in equal measure.