American Railroading Podcast

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our 2nd Annual Christmas Special our host Don Walsh is joined by guest and 15-time Texas country music chart-topper Bri Bagwell! Together they discuss Bri’s incredible journey to becoming Texas Female Country Music Artist of the Decade, as well as Bri’s favorite Christmas songs and memories. Bri gives amazing live performances of her favorite train song and a beautiful Christmas song that she co-wrote with her dad and her cousin. Bri also shares several other Christmas songs that she wrote and performed for us to enjoy, including the stories behind each one of them. Tune in to this very special Christmas episode and enjoy some Christmas cheer! You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Bri Bagwell’s musical journey began early, writing poems and learning piano, before joining her twin brothers’ band at just 14 years old.As her career has blossomed, Bri has performed on syndicated TV events such as NBC’s Lone Star New Years Eve, and with legends and contemporaries alike, including Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert, Dwight Yoakam, Robert Earl Keen, Kacey Musgraves, Reckless Kelly, and more.Bri plays an amazing and emotional acoustic version of “Play a Train Song” live, in tribute to country music singer and songwriter Todd Snider who recently passed away (November 2025).We get a special treat to hear Bri play a live piano version of “Cowboy Christmas Eve”, which she co—wrote with her dad and her cousin Kip Calahan Young, who performs a duet with Bri on the studio version.You, our wonderful audience, get to enjoy several other of Bri Bagewell’s Christmas songs on this 2nd Annual Christmas Special, which include pictures and videos, which you can see on our YouTube channel.As of November 2025, Bri has achieved her 15th #1 song in Texas radio with “Hit the Highway”. Be sure to check out Bri’s upcoming concert tour including her “A Very Desert Christmas” shows performing with her friends Drew Kennedy, Kristi Grider and Josh Grider in December 2025 in Fort Worth, TX and The Woodlands, TX. You can see all tour dates at www.BriBagwell.com .Stay tuned for our final episode of 2025 in late December! You don’t want to miss it!Everyone at the American Railroading Podcast wishes you and yours a very Merry Christmas!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.bribagwell.com

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Chuck Baker, President of the American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). Together they discuss the story of the American short line railroads including their origins, their near demise due to regulations and increased trucking,  their re-birth after deregulation, their significant role and impact on the U.S. economy, the effect of a government shutdown on the industry, and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS:  The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 58 countries around the world, on 38 podcast platforms!Although growing up in Baltimore, MD., Mr. Baker is a graduate of Rice University in Houston, TX.Prior to becoming President of the ASLRRA, Chuck was a lobbyist specializing in government affairs in Washinton, DC for 15 years representing railroad clients before the Federal Government, including Congress & administrative agencies such as the DOT,FRA, STB, DHS & TSA.Don and Chuck discuss what criteria determines a Class 1 railroad.A short line railroad’s role is to be the “First Mile, Last Mile” provider to local and regional businesses and communities, working in conjunction with Class 1 railroads.While there are 6 Class 1 railroads in the U.S. (UP, BNSF, CSX, NS, CN, and CPKC), there are 603 short line railroads.Short line railroads are a great American success story, employing 17,800 employees nationwide, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy.Chuck shares his opinion on the effect of a government shutdown on the railroad industry.The ASLRRA offers its members not only advocacy, but also training, grant assistance, disaster preparedness, education funds & industry scholarships, environmental initiatives, webinars, industry events, and more.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.ASLRRA.org

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR (Freight Transportation Research Associates). Together they discuss the pending $85 billion dollar Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, the current status of the U.S. economy, an update on U.S. manufacturing and production including new railcar production, rail traffic, market trends and risks, a forecast for 2026 and much more. We also announce our 2025 Honor our Heroes Award winner! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 57 countries around the world!The podcast continues to experience incredible growth in downloads and subscribers. Mr. Starks is a graduate of Indiana University and was an Adjunct Lecturer at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business for 4 years, teaching MBA students Transportation and Distribution Strategy, and was instrumental in creating the Indiana University Transportation Board.Eric does a deep-dive into our current U.S. economy and GDP and gives us his opinion on whether or not they are where we expected them to be.Don and Eric discuss Tariffs, what their intended use is by the current administration, and whether or not they are providing the intended results.Eric gives his opinion of the pros and cons of the pending UP and NS merger, and they discuss the recently announced BNSF and CSX partnership.Don and Eric do a thorough review of current rail traffic, velocity, dwell times, commodity and car type trends, and more.You don’t want to miss Eric’s 2026 forecast!Our 2025 – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award winner is……You’ll have to listen to the end of the episode to find out. 😊If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED:https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.ftrintel.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this Fun Rail Excursions episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Mary Jo Naschke, Director of Marketing for the Galveston Railroad Museum in Galveston, TX. Together they discuss the history of Galveston as a major port city in a young and growing United States in the 1800’s and the vital importance the railroad played in Galveston and beyond in the southwest United States. They also go through all the wonderful exhibits at the museum, the education offered, the beautiful venues available, their upcoming events as the holidays approach, and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 55 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last month, including a 200% increase in audio and video downloads!Founded in 1838, Galveston, an island port city in Texas, quickly became the major hub for trade and immigration for not only Texas, but the entire southwest United States.Galveston was the home of the first operating railroad in Texas, founded in 1850.After the devastating hurricane of 1900 that damaged nearly every building on Galveston island and took thousands of lives, the railroad bridge was the only bridge that remained standing that connected the island of Galveston to Houston.Founded in 1982 by Mary Moody, supported by the Moody Foundation, the Galveston Railroad Museum was created to preserve the history of railroading in Galveston and the effect it had on Texas and beyond.Don and Mary Jo go through all the wonderful exhibits, many of which are interactive; the education the museum offers all ages, which includes college internships; the venues on site for weddings, birthdays and corporate events; and the rail hotel which you can stay at on-site.The museum has several upcoming events which include ghost tours, The Ghostly Feather interactive mystery, the Rail Baron’s Ball which is an evening of fundraising that includes amazing silent and live auction items, and The Polar Express which actually leaves the station and requires pajamas and a love for hot chocolate.Please submit your favorite veteran of our U.S. Armed Forces currently in or retired from the rail industry for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. by 09/12/25. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.galvestonrrmuseum.org

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tom DeLafosse, SVP of Quality and Regulatory Compliance for Salco Products. Together they do a deep dive into tank car regulations, rulings and pending rulings such as HM-216b, HM-265 and HM-264, including the history of the industry before these regulations and rulings, the reasoning behind the creation of them, and their current as well as potential future impact on car owners, repair shops and shippers. They also take a brief moment to discuss the history of Salco Products and A. Stucki. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 53 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last month, including a 300% increase in audio and video downloads!Tom has 50 years of experience in the railcar industry in quality assurance, design, repair and inspection of railroad tank cars.Don trained under Tom for his Level II NDT certifications in 1998, shortly after he entered the industry.Today there are approximately 2 million registered railcars in the U.S. national fleet, of which 22% (or 440,000) are tank cars, all of which require HM-216b qualification at regular intervals.Tom and Don discuss the challenges tank car certified repair shops face today, and some of the potential causes for lengthy shop cycle times.Tom gives his very detailed thoughts on the pending ruling HM-265, as well as his opinion of the potential pros and cons.Don provides a final update from PHMSA on HM-264.Please submit your favorite veteran of our U.S. Armed Forces currently in or retired from the rail industry for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. by 09/12/25. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.salcoproducts.comhttps://www.stucki.com

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Kate Suprenuk, President of Leasing & Manufacturing at Union Tank Car (UTLX) & Procor. Together they discuss the current state of the new tank car market, the tank car leasing market, and they touch on the history of Union Tank Car Company, formed in 1891 by Standard Oil Company founded by John D. Rockefeller. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 52 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last year, including a 137% increase in video views on our YouTube channel!In 1891 the Union Tank Car Company (originally named the Union Tank Line) is formed by Standard Oil Company, to operate their tank car fleet.Tank cars have evolved greatly over the years from the first generation created in 1865, which was comprised of a flat car with two wooden barrels.Of the many factors affecting the new tank car market, interest rates are a major factor.The parent company of UTLX and Procor, Marmon Holdings, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway Company, is comprised of 11 industry groups and over 30,000 team members, 6,000 of whom are in the rail industry.The Marmon Motor Company won the inaugural Indy 500 in 1911 with the Marmon Wasp.You can now submit your nomination for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.utlx.com https://www.procor.comhttps://www.marmon.com

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Jeff Necciai, Chief Technology Officer of Duos Technologies, Inc. Together they discuss the importance of timely and accurate railcar inspections, how far railcar inspection technology has come over the last 25 to 30 years, how important railcar inspections are to safety, the role Ai is playing in the advancement of railcar inspection technology, and its ability to promptly communicate its findings. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!When Don began inspecting railcars, paper and pencil were the standard inspection method of the day.Don was involved in early Beta testing of the first cradle to grave, real-time system for railcar repair facilities. Jeff is listed on several technology-based patents and has contributed to articles for publications such as American Shipper, World Cargo News and the Journal of Commerce.Duos Technologies was founded 25 years ago, with its initial foray into the railroad industry involving surveillance technology.  Using Ai technology, the Duos Technologies - Railcar Inspection Portal can inspect railcars at operating speeds from 3 MPH to 125 MPH.The Duos RIP system can report findings within 60 seconds.Don states during his closing “My Two Cents” segment in part that improving railcar safety (via timely and accurate inspections) also improves security, asset downtime and overall costs.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.duostechnologies.com

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Denson White, Chief Commercial Officer of APM Terminals, Pier 400 in the Port of Los Angeles / Long Beach, CA. Together they discuss the current state of the U.S. supply chain, the effect that trade wars and tariffs can have on it, as well as how lessons learned during Covid will help those in supply chain today, and the surprising year-to-date stats of U.S. carload and intermodal traffic. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: Don Walsh dedicates this episode to the loving memory of his niece, Dr. JaeLynn Bobbie Stewart. Love you J.B. This is Denson’s 2nd appearance on the podcast. The first being Season 1, Episode 5 titled “Supply Chain – The Relationship Between Ports & Rail”. Be sure to go back and give it a listen.In 2024, APM Terminals completed a $73M rail expansion project at Pier 400 in the Port of Los Angeles, CA., which is projected to eliminate 1,200 truck trips per day by 2040.While intermodal railcars make up only 4% of the U.S. national fleet, 48% of all U.S. rail traffic is generally intermodal rail shipments.Intermodal freight transport is defined as involving the transportation of freight in an intermodal container, using multiple modes of transportation (i.e. ship, rail, truck and aircraft) , without any physical handling of the freight inside the container when changing modes.As discussed in Episode 3 of Season 3, the Government is the 800lb gorilla in the room, as they are always tinkering with things like regulations, taxes, interest rates and tariffs.Denson provides an insider’s viewpoint on how the current tariffs and pending trade war with China are already effecting U.S. ports and the overall supply chain.Don gives an update on PHMSA’s pending rulings HM264b and HM265 at the end of the episode after “”My 2 Cents”, so please stay tuned until the very end.The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts worldwide! Tune in to hear and see why!If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.APMTerminals.com https://www.UP.comhttps://www.AAR.orghttps://www.Trains.com

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our 2nd Anniversary episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tom Landstreet, Co-Founder of Trusco Investment Management. Together they discuss the current state of the U.S. economy post-Presidential election, and they do a deep dive into not only where our economy is today, but how we got here, how tariffs and other proposed methods or solutions may potentially help or contribute to inflation, and what this all can mean for the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Mr. Landstreet is also Founder and CEO of N3L Partners, a strategic investment partnership that specializes in analyzing government policies, betting both with and against government, in a classic long/short structure, investing where policy meets price.You must have a good sense of humor to be able to handle the ups and downs of the U.S. economy and continual government policy changes.Dr. Arthur Laffer’s 4 Grand Kingdom’s of Marco Economics are Monetary, Fiscal, Trade and Regulatory.The definition of inflation is too much money chasing too few goods.Our national debt is at $36 trillion dollars, and the interest on the debt is $1.5 trillion dollars, or $2.3 billion dollars per day.President Trump’s proposed plan to improve the economy and reduce inflation is said to be like spokes on a wheel including reducing the cost of energy by increasing production, reducing government spending, reducing regulations and restrictions, and bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.Increasing the onshoring of manufacturing in the U.S. can be very beneficial to the U.S. economy and markets.LNG has been a strong U.S. market, and with the President’s removal of the ban on LNG exports and the pending ruling decision of PHMSA’s HM-264B by June 30, 2025 which could result in potentially allowing the shipping of LNG in rail tank cars, LNG could be a growing market for the U.S. economy and for the railroad industry.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.truscomgmt.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Patrick Fuchs, Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board (STB). Together they discuss who the STB is, how and why the STB was created, and they do a deep dive into not only all the various functions of the STB, but also all the different ways in which the STB is a valuable resource to the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Mr. Fuchs was designated as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board by President Donald J. Trump, effective January 20, 2025.Among his impressive career accomplishments, Patrick worked on legislation to increase safety by addressing opioid abuse in transportation, with reforms enacted as part of the Support for Patients and Communities Act, enacted during the 115th United States Congress. Founded in 1996, the STB is an independent federal agency that is charged with the economic regulation of surface transportation, primarily freight rail.Their primary functions are regarding rates, services, licensing, complaints and preemption. The STB website at www.STB.gov is a tremendous resource including legal resources, litigation alternatives, an environmental review process, a railroad map depot and general assistance.More valuable resources that the STB offers are the Stakeholder Committees including the Railroad Shipper Transportation Advisor Council, the Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee, the National Grain Car Council and the newly created Passenger Rail Advisory Committee.While the STB is made up of Republican and Democrat members, transportation is not political as we all want things to get from A to B, faster, safer and cheaper.The STB’s Rail Customer & Public Assistance Program (RCPA) at (202) 245-0238 offers to help solve problems in a confidential manner, in ways ranging from a simple answer to a phone inquiry, to lengthy informal mediation assistance.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.stb.gov

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this, our first episode of Season 3, our host Don Walsh is our guest. Producer John joins Don on this episode and together they take us on a journey to review each of the podcast episodes from Season 2 along with a look behind the scenes and share thoughts not heard before on the episodes themselves. They also discuss audience feedback and their favorite moments from Season 2, after which Producer John then interviews Don, and they discuss his thoughts on where the industry is headed in 2025 and some hints on where the podcast is headed in Season 3. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode including episode videos and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!More sponsors are coming on board in 2025! Become a podcast Sponsor today!Ai is making its way into railroading, including new technology to inspect railcars in transit.One way to determine if you’re far enough away from a hazardous situation, use your thumb.It can cost as much as $60,000.00 USD per year to maintain tank car repair certifications at just one facility.Did you know that guest, Professor John Doggett, once had his own nationally syndicated radio show?The U.S. Army Transportation Museum has over 7,000 artifacts and exhibits.80%+ of interior lining and exterior coatings failures is due to improper surface preparation.When there’s an emergency at a railroad crossing, first thing to do is look for the little blue sign.The comment period for PHMSA’s pending ruling HM-265 has been extended to April 28, 2025.We hope you’re ready for an exciting Season 3 in 2025!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our first ever Christmas Special our host Don Walsh is joined by guests and Texas country music chart-toppers Payton Riley and Bubba Westly. Together they discuss the long history and connection between trains, music and Christmas, as well as sharing favorite Christmas songs and Christmas memories. Payton Riley and Bubba Westly also perform several live and unplugged songs on the episode including each of their own newly released Christmas songs. Tune in to this episode and enjoy some Christmas cheer! You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!There are over 800 known songs about trains.The earliest known train song was copyrighted July 1st, 1828.Trains are not only found throughout music but in movies as well, including Christmas movies like The Polar Express.Country music and Christmas have a long history as well including songs like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, performed by country music artist and movie star Gene Autry.Payton Riley and Bubba Westly play their favorite Christmas songs for us, as well as each of their own newly released Christmas songs.Payton Riley proudly took home the title of “Young Artist of the Year” at the Texas Country Music Awards in both 2023 and 2024, and was recently honored at the iconic Grand Ole Opry with the prestigious 2024 Josie Award for “Young Artist of the Year” in the Young Adult Female category.In 2024 Bubba Westly has achieved the #1 song in Texas radio with “Falling Star”, along with 4 consecutive Top 25 singles and being a finalist for the 2024 Texas Country Music Awards, Emerging Artist of the Year. Bubba is currently a semi-finalist for the Texas Regional Radio Music Awards, 2024 New Male Vocalist of the Year.Both Payton and Bubba have exciting plans for 2025 including upcoming movie roles.Everyone at the American Railroading Podcast wishes you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!Stay tuned for an exciting Season 3 in 2025!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.paytonrileymusic.com https://www.bubbawestly.com https://trrma.net/

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eamonn Patrick, Transportation Specialist, Standards and Rulemaking, for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Together they discuss who PHMSA is, what PHMSA does, and they do a deep dive into several pending and proposed rules including HM-264 regarding the shipping of LNG by rail tank cars and the recent HM-265 docket issued 10/28/24 regarding the proposed removal of sole delegated authority from the AAR Tank Car Committee for the approval of tank car designs and Quality Assurance Programs. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!PHMSA is divided into two parts, the Office of Hazmat Safety which focuses on hazmat shipments made by rail, highway, air and vessel; and the Office of Pipeline Safety.There are 1.2 million hazmat shipments by all modes of transportation daily.Hazmat shipments in the U.S. arrive at destination safely 99.99995% of the time.PHMSA’s focus is to create regulations that address any safety issues that are present in each mode of hazmat transportation in the U.S.PHMSA is also a resource including offering grant programs for first responders.As a part of the Department of Transportation, PHMSA sometimes receives mandates for rule makings directly from Congress.The proposed changes to the current rail tank car design and QAP processes in HM-265 is meant to mirror the current regulations regarding Highway tanks.Any questions you may have regarding the safe transportation of hazardous materials can be addressed by calling the DOT Hazmat Info Center at (800) 467-4922.Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.PHMSA.DOT.govhttps://www.FederalRegister.gov

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Crystal Blasius, Director of Safety Investigations for Amtrak. Together they discuss the importance of everyone following safety guidelines when around trains with a focus on railroad crossings. They also discuss Operation Life Saver and some of the scenic trips you can take on Amtrak. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Crystal served our country in the U.S. Navy as an FC3, Fire Controlman 3rd Class.She began her career in railroading in 2008 as a Conductor for the DM&E railroad.Her current role as Director of Safety Investigations for Amtrak reminds her a bit of CSI.There are approximately 78,000 customers making trips on Amtrak daily.Crystal’s opinion of one of the greatest challenges in railroad safety is communication.A train approaching a railroad crossing at an average speed of 59 mph will take a mile to stop.In the event of an emergency at a railroad crossing, call the number on the blue & white sign on the crossing post and give them the crossing number which will indicate your exact location.The 2024 Honor our Heroes Award winner is..Crystal Blasius!Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.oli.org https://www.amtrak.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Nigel Bennett – Treasurer for the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, IL. Together they discuss the history of the 100-acre Illinois Railway Museum, their history, vast and expansive exhibits, extensive libraries, educational opportunities, and amazing seasonal events for the whole family to enjoy. Also, at the end of the episode Don is joined by co-founder, president and CEO of Boots for Troops – Jimmy Rogers to announce the 2024 – Honor our Heroes award winner! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Nigel was born and raised in England where during his teenage years, steam was the most common locomotive power source on British railways, not unlike the locomotive in Harry Potter.The Illinois Railway Museum was founded in 1953, but the railroad history on the site goes back much further than that.Their Pullman library and collection are so extensive that the Pullman Historical District and Trust utilizes the IRM as a resource.Exhibits at the IRM include their model railroad exhibit, freight train exhibit, post office gallery, full size railcars, locomotives and even buses, totaling over 500 railroad related exhibit items.In addition to the wonderful exhibits, visitors can also ride all kinds of trains while there including those powered by steam locomotives and more modern electric trains and trolleys.The seasonal events at IRM are many, including the upcoming Pumpkin Train in the fall, the Happy Holiday Railway and Steam Department Benefit at the Sanfillipo Estate. Anyone interested in the IRM can purchase their tickets, make donations and even sign up to volunteer via the IRM website at www.IRM.org .The 2024 Honor our Heroes Award winner is……Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.irm.org 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tim Schaffer – Regional Sales Manager for PPG Industries. Together they discuss the importance of railcar coatings, along with a deep dive into the overall paint and lining processes, including everything from surface preparation and training to the finished product. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: Don dedicates this episode to the memory of his mentor, Joe Schieszler Sr., founder of Rescar Companies and AllTranstek, who passed away July 29, 2024.The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Don shares his first experience blasting a railcar.Improper surface preparation results in over 80% of all coating and lining failures. Surace contamination can include something as simple as handprints and sweat.The primary reasons to apply an interior lining to a railcar are product purity and corrosion protection.With the amount of coatings and lining options available, it’s best to consult with a coating’s expert and/or manufacturer to determine which is best for your intended use.Employee blast and coatings training is a must and can be achieved from resources such as coatings manufacturers and many local community colleges.Without the proper equipment, providing a finished coatings product that meets all requirements will be challenging, if not impossible.The annual Honor our Heroes Award is back for 2024, so please submit all nominations by 09/13/24. Details of how to nominate a veteran for the award are included in the episode.Visit our online store for all your fall hoodies, caps and sweatshirts!Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.ppg.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Joseph “Sepp” Scanlin  – Museum Director for the U.S. Army Transportation Museum. Together they discuss the long relationship between the U.S. Army Transportation Corps and the American railroad industry going back to pre-Civil War days, as well as the U.S. Army’s use of railroading all over the world. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!There is a New Gold Sponsor aboard!“Sepp” is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel with 21 years of service to his country, prior to becoming the Museum Director of the U.S. Army Transportation Museum.The U.S. Army Transportation Corps is involved with 5 other areas of transportation in addition to railroading.West Point was created as an engineering school, and many went into the railroad industry after serving their country, as they still do today.During World War II, it was common for the U.S. Army to utilize railroad shops for manufacturing and training purposes to assist with the war effort, including hospital trains.The U.S. Army Transportation Corps has transported all kinds of modes of transportation, including elephants.More recently, as with the war in Afghanistan, the U.S. Army Transportation Corps has become advisors versus operators.The U.S. Army Transportation Museum has over 7,000 artifacts and exhibits. The annual Honor our Heroes Award is back for 2024, so please submit all nominations by 09/13/24. Details of how to nominate a veteran for the award are included in the episode.Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://transportation.army.mil https://transportation.army.mil/museum/index.html 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest John Doggett  – Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, McCombs School of Business, Management Department. Together they discuss the state of the U.S. economy, inflation, debt, opportunities to improve, areas of growth, the potential impact of the upcoming presidential election, and what it all means for the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Professor Doggett has won 14 student-selected “Outstanding Teaching” awards, the most of any current member of the UT Austin, McCombs facility.John created his own international management consulting firm where he focused on helping developing countries transform their economies to become more market oriented.You’ve got to look at the data regarding the U.S. economy objectively (Ugly Baby Glasses).The interest payments on our national debt are projected to be 170% of the GDP by 2054.There are ways to correct the path we’re on with national spending and debt, but the question is, will either party be willing to do what it takes?John believes that this is one of the most consequential presidential elections that we’ve had in the U.S., in terms of the direction of the country.LNG remains a strong market for U.S. exports.John is “bullish” on the rail industry. Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Sarah Yurasko  – President of the League of Railway Women (LRW). Together they discuss the League of Railway Women, how the organization is a resource for women and companies in, as well as those supporting the rail industry. They also discuss all that LRW offers including mentoring programs, scholarships, awards, networking, education, a career center, and corporate partnerships. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast has broken into the Top 50 in our genre on Apple Podcasts!Sarah’s goal in college was to have a career in international law, until a college internship in transportation changed her mind.The League of Railway Women began in 1997 and was founded to support women not only in railroading, but also to be inclusive of women in companies that support the railroad industry.In 2018 the LRW board performed a review of the first 20 years with their members and determined that members wanted a greater focus on networking, education, and mentorship.At their 20-year anniversary in 2018 LRW had approximately 200 members. In 2024 LRW has over 2,700 members.LRW’s mentoring program was so well received that the initial enrollment maxed-out within 30 days of its launch date.The Career Center within LRW is exclusive to individual and corporate members.LRW’s networking events are available to LRW members and non-members alike.The LRW 2023 Railway Woman of the Year Award winner was Kari Gonzalez, President & CEO of MxV Rail.Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.americanrailroadingstore.company.site https://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.railwaywomen.org https://www.aldonco.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Dave Ronzani – Director of Railcar Regulatory Compliance for AllTranstek. Together they discuss the enormous amount of regulatory oversight a certified tank car repair facility has from the DOT, PHMSA, FRA, BOE and AAR. They also discuss what it takes to receive and maintain a tank car repair facility certification including significant investment and training. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading. You can find the episode on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net . Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% Globally, downloaded in 41 countries!Need a gift for Mom this Mother’s Day? How about American Railroading merch from our online store?The amount of manuals a certified tank car repair facility must have on-hand is staggering and includes requirements from the DOT, FRA, BOE, AAR, tank car owners and more, which are all based on federal laws.In general, a facility must be a certified tank car repair facility if they are making repairs above the tank car stub-sill.Tank car owners should always verify that the facility making repairs to their tank car has the proper certification(s) under AAR MSRP, Section C-III, Appendix B.Cleaning and transloading facilities considering making repairs to a tank car, should first check AAR MSRP, Section C-III, Appendix B to see if they must be certified to make those repairs.The FRA not only has the ability to levy fines against those in violation of federal regulations and requirements, but they also have arresting powers and the ability to prosecute if they feel it is warranted. The process to receive and maintain a tank car repair facility certification once all manuals, equipment, personnel, and training are in place includes an audit and subsequent mandatory annual audits (by the FRA, BOE and AAR) which can cost as much as $60,000.00 for each full-service tank car repair facility annually.The most common mistake Dave sees during internal audits he performs at certified tank car repair facilities is not following the car owner’s procedures.Happy Mother’s Day!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.net/ https://americanrailroadingstore.company.site https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.alltranstek.com https://www.aldonco.com