Iron City Roundhouse Report

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 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.