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Artwork for Around The Layout

Around The Layout - A Model Railroad Podcast

Ray Arnott
Model Railroading
Iowa Interstate Railroad
Benton & Southern
Southern Tier Grain Modelers Supply
Model Trains Manufacturing
Freight Cars
Central Vermont Railway
Model Railroader Magazine
Grimes Line
Hills Line
Prairie Shadows
Grain Elevator Switching
N Scale
HO Scale
Portland, Oregon
Freelance Model Railroading
CB&Q
Model Railroader
Kalmbach Media
Burlington Northern

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

PublishesTwice weeklyEpisodes262Founded4 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
HobbiesHow ToEducationLeisure

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Artwork for Around The Layout

Latest Episodes

What would you do if you discovered a passion for operations well into your layout build? Our guest on this episode of Talking Ops with Don Irace, Mark Herrick, did just that and tells us how he took what he started, and with some inspiration and gui... more

Picturesque views, an amazing model railroad museum, a hotbed of top notch layouts and now an event bringing modelers together from both the prototype and freelance approaches - this is what the 2025 Colorado Rail Proto Meet delivers. ATLP host Ray A... more

Can the process of building the a big layout be the same as eating an elephant? For Brent Johnson, taking one bite at a time is an approach that has kept his flywheel turning as he looks to accomplish a rather large layout build of the Clinchfield Ra... more

Come along with ATLP host Ray Arnott as he attends his first Mid-Atlantic RPM just outside of Baltimore, Maryland. Ray talks to several show participants about what they brought to share at MARPM and how the event affords them the opportunity to lear... more

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Recent Guests

Brent Johnson
Passionate model railroader and contributor to Railroad Model Craftsman
Clinchfield Railroad Carolina Division
Episode: Brent Johnson & The Clinchfield Carolina Division
Bernie Kapinski
Organizer of the Mid-Atlantic RPM event.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Jim DeFour
Model railroader who builds and operates a layout based on Lehigh New England Railroad.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Todd Herman
Model railroader who operates a layout based on the Lehigh New England Railroad.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Jeremy Zablocki
Model railroader specializing in short line railroads.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Butch Eiler
Experienced modeler known for his weathering techniques.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Chris Adams
Member of the New Haven Railroad Historical and Technical Association.
Episode: 2025 Mid-Atlantic RPM Interviews
Jimmy DIY
Owner of DIY and Digital Railroads YouTube channel and the host of Coffee and Trains.
DIY and Digital Railroads
Episode: Introduction to N Scale with Jimmy DIY
Tony Cook
Editor of Model Railroad News
Model Railroad News
Episode: What's Happening In Model Railroading - September 2025 - With Tony Cook

Host

Ray Arnott
Host of Around The Layout, a model railroad podcast focusing on the stories and insights of model railroading enthusiasts.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 138 ratings
  • Love the show

    The podcast focuses on the person behind the layout. I especially love the operations with Don Irace. I hope they do deep dives in operations. Like get Tony Koster on there to talk about train order operations. How does it work. What is the paperwork, the jobs, etc. it might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it is an option. Also can you get real railroaders on the show to talk about how the prototype do things. Get a yard master, head of operations (what are the real business concerns). G... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    James in Chicago
    United States8 months ago
  • Best scale railroad talkshow available

    If you’re looking for updates on the hobby, fantastic interviews with people in the industry as well as everyday enthusiasts then this is the podcasts for you.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Quizinova
    Australia8 months ago
  • This podcast is something that I, as an armchair model railroader, have needed. It has given me inspiration, encouragement and knowledge in almost every aspect of model railroading. Ray is an excellent host, and his co-hosts are just as welcoming. Take a listen and get ready for a great journey.

    Audible
    5
    Amazon Customer
    United Statesa year ago
  • Every Model Railroader Should Listen In

    This podcast is something that I, as an armchair model railroader, have needed. It has given me inspiration, encouragement and knowledge in almost every aspect of model railroading. Ray is an excellent host, and his co-hosts are just as welcoming. Take a listen and get ready for a great journey.

    Audible
    5
    Amazon Customer
    United Statesa year ago
  • All the people that are on the show are great & the host. I model in HO scale & now I known how to do a lot of thing.

    Audible
    5
    Al
    United Statesa year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Listeners value the variety of topics covered, particularly operational techniques and community events.
The discussions are often educational and entertaining, ideal for both newcomers and seasoned model railroaders.
Listeners appreciate the personal stories and insights shared by guests, creating a strong sense of community.
Feedback highlights the podcast's professionalism and quality production, along with engaging hosts and guests.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#70
United States/Leisure/Hobbies
Apple Podcasts
#137
Canada/Leisure/Hobbies
Apple Podcasts
#145
Australia/Leisure/Hobbies
Apple Podcasts
#146
Italy/Leisure/Hobbies
Apple Podcasts
#56
Hong Kong/Leisure/Hobbies
Apple Podcasts
#57
Denmark/Leisure/Hobbies

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

What's Happening In Model Railroading - September 2025 - With Tony Cook
Q: What upcoming events can model railroaders look forward to?
Eric presents a list of upcoming RPM events occurring across different states in the coming weeks.
What's Happening In Model Railroading - September 2025 - With Tony Cook
Q: What new models have been released in the model railroading community?
Tony discusses various new products including the Ford F-150 high railer truck, modern refrigerator trailer, and recent releases from various model manufacturers.
ATLP Rewind - Chris Gilbert & The Brownville & Ashland - September 3, 2024
Q: What is the purpose of the Brownville & Ashland railroad as it sits today?
It runs from Canada down to Brownville and into Vermont, focusing on the paper industry with local operations.
ATLP Rewind - Chris Gilbert & The Brownville & Ashland - September 3, 2024
Q: What really kind of led you down that freelance path?
The desire to create unique locomotives that weren't modeled by others and the freedom to avoid criticism in modeling.
2025 Colorado Rail Proto Meet Preview with Michelle Kempema
Q: What are some new plans you have for the Colorado Rail Proto Meet?
Plans include more space for layouts and new events like the Narrow Gauge Gathering with themed snacks.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
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Frequently Asked Questions About Around The Layout

What is Around The Layout about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A series focused on engaging conversations with experienced model railroaders, this collection of episodes highlights a variety of personal stories, challenges, and innovations within the vibrant hobby of model railroading. Topics frequently discussed include operational techniques, event previews, and community-building efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among enthusiasts. The series also features expert guests who share insights into their unique modeling experiences and projects, creating a well-rounded exploration of the craft.

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Which podcasts are similar to Around The Layout?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Around The Layout:

1. Second Section Podcast
2. The Crossing Gate. Model railroad discussion.
3. a ModelersLife
4. Iron City Roundhouse Report
5. The Roundhouse

How many episodes of Around The Layout are there?

Around The Layout launched 4 years ago and published 262 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on Around The Layout?

Recent guests on Around The Layout include:

1. Brent Johnson
2. Bernie Kapinski
3. Jim DeFour
4. Todd Herman
5. Jeremy Zablocki
6. Butch Eiler
7. Chris Adams
8. Jimmy DIY

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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