Derek joins Matt and Matt of the The Matt and Matt O Scale Trains Podcast to talk about what he's been up to in 2021 and discuss everything going on currently in the world of O gauge trains. You can find the Matt and Matt podcast HERE. 

 

No MTH, no York, what's a hobby to do? An update from Derek and his thoughts on the current state of the O gauge industry.

Join MTH Vice President of Marketing Andy Edelman and host Derek Thomas as they deep dive into the 2019 MTH Volume 2 Catalog. We'll discuss the recently announced Union Pacific George H. Bush funeral train, unique holiday offerings, and all the brand new road names and returns of classic favorites that grace the pages of this catalog.

In this episode of Notch 6, Jack "Hotwater" Wheelihan returns with some incredible tales from his days firing Southern Pacific 4449, Union Pacific 844, and Union Pacific 3985. We'll cover everything from what happens when your pilot engineer "forgets" to alert you to an upcoming crossover, to how hot does it really get in a tunnel when you're in the cab of one of the largest operating steam locomotive in North America. You don't want to miss this episode!

In part one of our Lionel 2019 Volume 1 catalog show, Ryan Kunkle joins us to break down the new scale offerings in the catalog. This will include everything you see in the new catalog at Lionel.com as well as some EXCLUSIVE details about a forthcoming George Bush 4141 set which will be formally announced in later 2019.

We'll also have a deep look at the new LionChief+ 2.0 technology which aims to further enhance the command control O gauge market.

It's a full episode with details you won't want to miss!

In this segment of the Lionel 2019 Volume 1 Catalog show, we talk with Meegan Untereker about Lionel's lineup of Traditional, Licensed, and Holiday products. This segment includes the scale Christmas offerings such as Polar Express and more. We'll also discuss many of the traditional sets and fun items that make Lionel such a unique brand.

On this episode of Notch 6, Jack "Hot Water" Wheelihan joins me to discuss his career with EMD, his time spent firing Southern Pacific 4449, Union Pacific 844 and 3985. If that wasn't enough, we'll discuss his 3 rail scale layout and why he decided to dismantle and sell the majority of his collection. It's a fascinating story of one mans passion for railroading and the wonderful journey it has taken him on.

If you're interested in purchasing Madison Hardware apparel we're taking orders through December 3rd by clicking here.

The MTH 2019 catalog show is here! Join Derek Thomas and MTH's Andy Edelman as we break down everything in the new catalog from Union Pacific 150th anniversary to this catalogs celebration of moving goods across your model railroad.

In this episode of Notch 6, Evan Cihlar from Railroading in America Magazine joins me to discuss how he and the entire RIA staff have developed an exciting online magazine in just over a year. Not only does the magazine offer a diverse range of content including O gauge trains, but their staff is one of the youngest in the industry. We'll hear all about how the magazine was started and their future, plus about Evan and his Father's Nickel Plate inspired railroad which creates realistic railroading in a mid sized space.

Part two of the Lionel 2018 Volume II catalog show with Lionel’s Meegan Unterecker. This is your inside look at all the new traditional product coming in 2019 and some even delivering before 2018 is over!

Today on Notch 6 we wrap up our coverage of the LCCA National Convention in Chicago. We'll hear from the leadership of the LCCA on the positive things happening inside of the club including some exclusive Lionel products including a Vision line engine ( Not the Niagara...) We'll also talk about how the club is evolving and reacting to an ever changing market.

It's time for the big announcements from Lionel at The Lionel Collectors Club of America national convention. Ryan Kunkle, Director of Production for Lionel, returns to the show to talk about a brand new brass hybrid locomotive, plus we'll talk production updates, and much more. Our thanks as always to The Lionel Collectors Club of America and Lionel for sharing the inside scoop about these new and exciting products.

In this episode of Notch 6, Howard Hitchcock, President of Lionel LLC stops by for our annual interview. There are plenty of interesting topics covered including, Lionel's new venture into retail, the state of overseas manufacturing affecting Lionel, the future of electronics in O gauge trains, and more. It's an insightful interview of where Lionel has been in the past year and where it is going in the next. As always Al Kolis is with me to recap the days events at The Lionel Collectors Club of America national convention.

Tonight, Bob Thomas ( Husband of artist Angela Trotta Thomas) talks about what it's like to be married to a well known figure in our hobby. Plus he shares his story of building a hobby shop inspired layout, his Postwar train memories, and some of his unique experiences about collecting and visiting Lionel Trains over the years.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Tonight in Chicago I talk with Elaine Silets, The Train Lady. For over 25 years she has designed and built many high end custom layouts around the Midwest. Some featured in famous buildings and large consumer catalogs. Her most impressive work may be the massive O gauge layout she built for her Husband before his death. You'll hear her complete story with plenty of insight about her years in the industry. Al Kolis on board with us as always to discuss the happenings at the LCCA National Convention.

Welcome to LCCA week in Chicago. Kevin Davis joins me to discuss the ins and outs of building a Lionel Fastrack modular layout specifically with Chicago in mind. We'll also recap activities from the first part of 2018 and their positive impact on the hobby. Plus, I'm joined by Al Kolis for his insight on everything happening at the Lionel Collectors Club of America National Convention.

In this episode of Notch 6 we revisit an early interview with John Schmid, President of Project Roar Publishing. We'll also update a number of projects we're working on along with our sponsors.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In this part of Episode 115, Andy Edelman from MTH stops by to cover all things in the MTH Premier line in the 2018 Volume 2 catalog. See Episode 115-A for the Railking section of this catalog.

In this part of Episode 115, Andy Edelman from MTH stops by to cover all things Railking, Railking Scale, and Railking Imperial, in the 2018 Volume 2 catalog. See Episode 115-B for the Premier section of this catalog.

Notch 6 Episode 114 - Michael and Tom Roder join me to discuss all things related to Gargraves track. A staple in the O gauge hobby for over 75 years, Gargraves track is found on some of the best hi-rail layout in the country. You'll hear about the humble beginnings of the company all the way through present day. Michael and Tom will also share some valuable tips for using their product.

In this episode Steve Nelson, Owner of Mr. Muffins Trains, stops by to visit. We'll hear about his early experiences that led to opening a hobby store in a time where colleagues told him what a poor idea it was. We'll also explore collecting Atlas O wooden reefers, what customer service means in the hobby industry today, and he'll share some tips he's learned while building three large O gauge layouts.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In part one of the Lionel 2018 Catalog shows we chat with Lionel's Ryan Kunkle about all of the new and upcoming releases in the world of O scale products. This includes scale steam, diesel, freight, and passenger cars. Be sure to check out episode 112-B for the traditional side of this packed Lionel catalog!

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In our second part of the Lionel 2018 Volume 1 catalog show we take a look at all of the new and fun items in the world of traditional O gauge. From the upcoming Hot Wheels set to the brand new Scooby Doo set, we have it all. Plus your holiday favorites including Polar Express, Halloween, and Angela Trotta Thomas Christmas!

In this episode of Notch 6 we visit with Steve Lukefahr, former owner of Trains LTD in St. Louis. Now retired, we discuss his time owning the store and his spectacular T W Trainworx built layout featuring scenes from The Polar Express and more. Plus, Mike Reagan stops by for his annual reading of The Night Before Christmas and to fill us in on what he's been up to.

For years the hobby has talked about how to get the next generation involved in model railroading. What happens when the talking stops and the action actually starts? You'll hear from three gentlemen who are making that actively happen through Kids Run Trains, The Mohegan-Pequot Model Railroad Club, and The Lionel Collectors Club of America. 

Download this Episode by Clicking Here A great interview with Lionel's Ryan Kunkle detailing the announcement of Lionel's 2018 Vision Line locomotive announcement. Exclusive details inside!

Download this Episode by Clicking Here An inside look at the new MTH Electric Trains 2018 Volume 1 catalog with MTH Electric Trains Vice President of Marketing Andy Edelman.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In this episode of Notch 6, we find out what happens when you find another O gauge collector in your neighborhood. It's a story of Lionel history and amazing craftsmanship as well as a lifelong passion for Lionel trains.

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In this episode of Notch 6, we deep dive into the Lionel 2017 Volume II catalog. Ryan Kunkle joins us to give us a guided tour of this new catalog and all the details you've come to expect from a Lionel catalog show. Also, Al Kolis from the LCCA joins us to take a look at some of the special events coming in the fourth quarter of this year including the Lionel Warehouse sale in November.

A short and sweet update for you about the new catalog!

In this episode of Notch 6, we go on an adventure to Tacoma Rail and get a first hand look and this unique terminal railroad. You'll also hear from Al Kolis and our special guest is LCCA Engineer for the Day Tommy and his Father Joel.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In this episode of Notch 6, we talk with LCCA President Al Kolis,  incoming president Ken Kelley, and immediate past President Dennis Devito. We discuss some of the challenges facing the LCCA as well as some of the high points of the past year.

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In this episode of Notch 6, Lionel President Howard Hitchcock joins us to discuss where Lionel has been in the last twelve months and where they hope to go in the next twelve. It's an insightful interview with a broad look at Lionel as a company. Also, Al Kolis joins us to recap day 3 at the LCCA national convention.

LCCA National Convention Day 2 - Ryan Kunkle from Lionel joins us to give a production update, plus we talk paint colors, getting the details right and more.

In this episode of Notch 6, Lionel's Meegan Untereker stops by to introduce a pair of brand new Lionel train sets out of the 2017 Volume II catalog. We'll also look back on her year as a Lionel project manager. You'll get the inside scoop on what it takes to make the Lionel products come to life and some valuable lessons she has learned along the way. Plus, it's our first night of coverage from the LCCA convention in Tacoma Washington. LCCA President Al Kolis joins us to recap what has happened so far this week.

Notch 6 turns the big 100 with this episode! David Minarik,  drummer for The Clarks and owner of Mercer Junction,  joins us to share his story of how he was introduced to model trains, running a hobby store in the 21st century, and what drives him to create realistic operations on his layout. In addition, Al Kolis joins us to give a preview of the upcoming LCCA convention in Tacoma Washington.  

In this final double digit episode of Notch 6, we take an inside look at Lionel's Lionscale production in Concord, North Carolina. You'll hear from the small team of folks that work to put these cars together. We'll also catch up with Roger Farkash and Mike Reagan from TW Trainworx and find out about their exciting new kits and more.

In this episode of Notch 6, we go behind the scenes of Norfolk and Western J class No. 611. We spend time with the night crew of the locomotive, visit with the volunteers and engine crew. Take an inside look at what it takes to run a main line steam locomotive in the 21st Century. For more information or to support N&W 611, please visit www.fireup611.org

The MTH 2017 Volume II and Ready to Run catalogs are here. Join Derek Thomas and MTH's Andy Edelman as they break down everything new and exciting in this catalog.

If you've ever wondered who engineers some of the cool features in our O gauge trains, well then you are about to get your question answered. Dave Olson joins me today to discuss some of the unique features he has helped engineer along with some of the challenges that these revolutionary features create. You'll also hear his story about how his background and love of trains landed him a job at Lionel.

Mike Reagan and Roger Farkash from TW Trainworx join us for a special show about their new partnership. Here is the press release from TW: Dallas, TX -  February 1, 2017:  TW TrainWorx, a Dallas based company specializing in custom model railroad displays, custom one of a kind structures and “Art of the Train” products, is excited to announce a new addition to the Traingineering team.  Mike Reagan, renowned 3-rail industry expert and former Director of Customer Service and Product Development for Lionel Trains LLC, will be pursuing his passion for Train Layout and Model Building, as well as his enthusiastic pursuit of client relations, as the Director of our newly established TW TrainWorx Eastern Division, located in Concord, North Carolina. Mike’s position at this new location will allow us to better serve our ever-expanding customer base in the Eastern US region.  In addition, Mike’s in-depth experience in developing, troubleshooting and repairing products will also allow us to provide a wider range of customer focused services to our client portfolio from both our locations. TW’s Creative Director and Founder, Roger Farkash stated: “Mike’s addition to our team, with his 25 years of involvement in all aspects of the model railroading industry, is an exciting opportunity for TW to add value to our customers experience across our line of products and services, enhancing not only our unique layout presentations and environments but also static structures, right-of-way elements and signature scenic enhancements.   I look forward to Mike’s participation in every aspect of our successful business model as we take our customers Model Railroading Journey to the Next Level.” TW’s President and CEO, Dorcie Farkash, added: “ In recognition of this Milestone event, we will be initiating our expanded level of client services with a special offer to our existing customers to be the first to utilize our “Out of Warranty”  repair services and technical expertise.  Additionally, Roger and Mike have been immersed in developing our “On Site Assessment” Package for owners of operationally challenged layouts who share our goal of having kids of all ages happily running their trains on their layouts every day, yet need the technical assistance to make it happen.” For additional information please call: Dorcie Farkash aka Traindame at (214) 634-2965

Download this Episode by Clicking Here The big reveal is finally here and Notch 6 has exclusive coverage of the brand new Lionel 2017 Signature catalog. Lionel's Director of Production, Ryan Kunkle, joins us again to take a look at all of the new locomotives and notable rolling stock and passenger cars in this new catalog. It's over an hour packed with all things new and exciting in the world of Lionel Trains.

Our 2017 Lionel catalog shows continue with a sneak peek at a product that is coming in the Lionel signature catalog catalog. Lionel's Director of Production, Ryan Kunkle,  joins me to discuss this exciting steam locomotive and the history behind the model.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here We kick off day 1 of our 2017 Lionel catalog shows with the Ready to Run catalog. Lionel's Meegan Untereker joins me to discuss some wonderful new starter sets, licensed product, and gives us an exclusive look at some new technology that will be making its way into the Lionel line in 2017.

In this episode of Notch 6, Skip Natoli stops by to chat with us about his custom built New York City layout. We touch on everything from the Lionel Super O showroom layout, to New York Central history, and the magic of New York City at Christmas. Plus, we conclude the show with an annual tradition. It's another do not miss episode of Notch 6!

Thanks Mike... If you'd like order a copy of The Madison Hardware Story please visit us at www.madisonposter.com

In this episode of Notch 6, Andy Edelman from MTH Electric Trains joins us to break down everything new in the MTH 2017 Volume I catalog. It's a great episode filled with details that you won't find in the catalog! Make sure to check out the catalog at MTHtrains.com

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In this episode of Notch 6, Lionel LLC CTO Jon Zahornacky stops by to discuss his role in the development of some of our favorite features in today's O gauge trains. You'll hear about the early development of Lionel's Legacy system, look into the future at Lionel's venture into Bluetooth control, and a behind the scenes look at some of the impressive technology that is under the hood of your Lionel locomotives. Do not miss this insightful episode!

 

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In this episode of Notch 6, you'll get an exclusive look inside the new Lionel Trains 2016 Volume II catalog. Mike Reagan and Ryan Kunkle from Lionel LLC join host Derek Thomas to discuss the brand new Lionel catalog. You can follow along with the new catalog at Lionel.com. You'll also hear exclusive details straight from the Lion's mouth that you won't find in the new catalog.

In this special episode of Notch 6, you'll get an exclusive look inside the new Lionel Trains 2016 Volume II catalog. High end locomotive project manager Ryan Kunkle joins host Derek Thomas to discuss a new diesel locomotive offering in detail. The new Lionel catalog arrives on August 31st, 2016, but you'll get this information first, only from Notch 6!

Download this Episode by Clicking Here In this special episode of Notch 6, you'll get an exclusive look inside the new Lionel Trains 2016 Volume II catalog. High end locomotive project manager Ryan Kunkle joins host Derek Thomas to discuss a new steam locomotive offering in detail. The new Lionel catalog arrives on August 31st, 2016, but you'll get this information first, only from Notch 6!

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 84 - Sadly, it's the last day of the LCCA convention in Kansas City.  We'll spend our time today focusing on the state of the LCCA. President Al Kolis, Immediate Past President Dennis Devito, and President Elect Ken Kelley, join me for a round table conversation about what's new in the world of the LCCA

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 83 - Howard Hitchcock, President of Lionel LLC returns for our annual interview. We'll spend time catching up on what's new at Lionel for 2016 and look to the future for 2017 and beyond. Plus, it's the big Lionel seminar at the convention, we'll talk with Al Kolis about the notable news items that have come out of this convention.

Notch 6 Episode 82 - Another Mike joins us in this episode. Mike Phillips, head of marketing for Lionel joins us to talk about some of the new and exciting promotions that Lionel is working on inside and outside of the hobby to promote the circle L. If you've ever wondered how Lionel works to reach the outside world, this episode can't be missed.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 81 - One of our favorite guests returns to the program as Mike Reagan from Lionel joins us to talk about all things Lionel. From what happens at Lionel during the Summer months, to plans for the 2016 Volume II catalog, it's all here. You'll get a few inside track announcements as well. As always Notch 6 is the first to bring you breaking news from our friends at Lionel. We'll also talk with Mike McLintock from the LCCA as he recaps the day's events at Kansas City Union Station.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 80 - It's history day in Kansas City! We'll visit with Al Kolis and recap the history focused tours from the convention as well as discussing how we all can promote the hobby of O gauge railroading to the community around us. Tonight's feature interview is with Jim Asplund, a volunteer at Kansas City Union Station. He gives us a history of this grand station as well as an overview of railroading throughout the decades in Kansas City.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 79 - Night two in Kansas City and tonight's feature interview is with Jim Eudaly and focuses on his Chesapeake and Ohio Hinton Division Layout. This layout is almost 50 years in the making and is hands down one of the most impressive layouts we have ever seen. Find out what it takes to model a railroad in fine detail, plus the rewarding challenges of realistic operation on that layout.  We'll also get the recap of the day's events with Al Kolis as we discuss the LCCA's relationship with the real railroads.

Download this Episode by Clicking Here Notch 6 Episode 78- In this episode we kick off our Lionel Collectors Club of America convention coverage from Kansas City, Missouri. President Al Kolis joins us again this year for a full week of coverage.  We have a convention overview as well as a feature interview with Roger Farkash from TW TrainWorx, who discusses building a replica of Kansas City Union Station and how he uses selective compression for the layouts he and his team build. We'll also talk about a new museum layout that the TW team is hard at work on.

In this episode Derek updates the latest news about The Madison Hardware Story, previews the LCCA national convention, and he revisits one of his favorite interviews with former Lionel COO and President Richard Maddox. This interview was originally in two parts and has now been combined into one show. There is fascinating information about Lionel's final days in Michigan, the development of Fastrack, and much more. If you enjoy Lionel history, do not miss this episode!

In this episode of Notch 6 O Gauge Railroading Publisher Rich Melvin stops by to give us a look at the past and the future of one of the leading O gauge publications. Plus you'll receive an inside look at what it takes to run a successful mainline steam locomotive program in the 21st century. We'll also discuss the upcoming trips for Nickel Plate 765 out of the Chicago area.

The MTH 2016 Volume II catalog is live and online! Join Andy Edelman and host Derek Thomas as we break down all the new and interesting items in this catalog. Everything from Chesapeake and Ohio, to Santa Fe, and Norfolk Southern. It's all here!

The MTH Digital Command System (DCS)  has been an industry standard for over fifteen years now. DCS expert, and author of the book The DCS Companion, Barry Broskowitz joins me on this episode to discuss getting the best results out of the DCS system on your O gauge layout. If you are planning a layout, or would like to integrate DCS into an existing layout, this show is for you.

The MTH Digital Command System (DCS)  has been an industry standard for over fifteen years now. DCS expert, and author of the book The DCS Companion, Barry Broskowitz joins me on this episode to discuss getting the best results out of the DCS system on your O gauge layout. If you are planning a layout, or would like to integrate DCS into an existing layout, this show is for you.

In this episode of Notch 6 we catch up on all the exciting things that are happening at Notch 6 media. I'll give you the inside story on how a Lionel LCCA Texas Special train set made it's way onto the hit CBS TV show The Big Bang Theory and you will get an update on the latest work that is taking place on my book The Madison Hardware Story. In our feature interview Lionel Collectors Club of America member Bill Lucey joins us from the Lionel offices to discuss his experience winning the Lionel CEO for a Day contest. Hear about his visit to the Lionel archives and the many other special experiences during his day. Bill has some great insight as an outsider taking a look at what makes Lionel run on a day to day basis.

The 2016 Lionel catalogs are here! Mike Reagan, Matt Ashba, and Ryan Kunkle join Derek to break down everything new and exciting in these catalogs. From Scale steam and diesel to new licensed product, it's all here on Notch 6!

In this episode of Notch 6 we celebrate the season with Roger Farkash from TW Trainworx and Mike Reagan from Lionel. Roger joins us to discuss The Trains at Northpark, an annual display in Dallas Texas that raises significant amounts of money and awareness for The Ronald McDonald House. We'll talk about what it takes to run O gauge trains in a large public setting and how some of those practical tips can be used for your own display. Mike Reagan stops by for our annual holiday tradition and an end of the year Lionel recap.

Notch 6 Episode 70- In this episode we'll discuss why having a plan is so important for your O gauge layout. Bill Rennolds joins me to discuss his incredible layout and how his plan has allowed him to execute construction of layout in a very unusual circumstance. You'll also hear how his ability to plan ahead has made the process of building his layout more enjoyable. If you're planning a layout or plan to rebuild your layout in the future, this is a do not miss episode!

In this episode of Notch 6 Lionel's Ryan Kunkle introduces us to the new Vision Line GG-1 locomotive. You'll hear all about the new features, some history on the GG-1 and you'll hear some of the locomotive sounds and surprises that will make this locomotive a unique product in the O gauge model railroad market place. 

Notch 6 Episode 68- The MTH 2016 Volume 1 catalog show is here! Andy Edelman joins me to break down all the unique sets, paint schemes, and new locomotives in this catalog. As always you'll also get exclusive details that you will not find in the catalog. 

Notch 6 Episode 67- What does 36 years look like inside Lionel? One man has that answer and his name is J. Don Reese. J. Don shares his wonderful memories from his time at Lionel. Starting with the changing times at MPC in the early 1970's, through the changing technology of the 1990's, to the new golden age of O gauge trains today. This episode is full of modern Lionel history. Plus an update on The Madison Hardware Story and more. 

The second Lionel catalog of 2015 has arrived and Notch 6 has exclusive details.  In this special episode we talk with Lionel’s Matt Ashba and Mike Reagan about all the new products in this catalog. You'll hear about the exciting new introductions in scale diesel and steam locomotives. Plus returns of some favorites in the rolling stock section. We suggest listening to the show while you browse the new catalog at Lionel.com There are details in this episode that you won’t find anywhere else!

On this episode, Alex Malliae joins us to discussing his ever chaning JADA railroad, how to upgrade your O gauge locomotives with off the shelf parts, and his tips for speeding up your modeling process on multiple buildings. We also have information about the Notch 6 Lionel Volume II catalog show which is coming soon. 

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 64. We wrap up the 45th annual LCCA convention in Boston talking with LCCA presidents Dennis DeVito and Al Kolis. We talk ideas for the future of the club, a bit more about the Weaver announcement from episode 63, and we announce an exclusive LCCA contest to be Lionel CEO for a day! 

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 63. The big news from the LCCA Boston convention is here! Lionel President Howard Hitchcock joins us to discuss some very interesting product news. Also we discuss the future goals for Lionel in late 2015 into 2016. Al Kolis joins me to recap the days events here at the Boston convention and we discuss why it's a good investment to be a part of the LCCA. We're bringing you the breaking news FIRST on Notch 6!

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 62. The fifth night of the LCCA convention in Boston. Tonight I recap the days events with Al Kolis, plus an interesting discussion about the LCCA Junior Membership program. The feature interview tonight is with the Lionel Director of Marketing Mike Phillips. He helps answer the question of "What is Lionel doing to reach a new generation?". We talk about train shows, licenced product, and more.  

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 61. Night four at the LCCA National convention. Tonight we chat with Al Kolis about the local impact that the LCCA makes on the host city. Our feature interview tonight is with Mike Reagan from Lionel. He'll update us on Lionel accessories, power for your layout, new tricks with the Station Sounds diners, and more. 

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 60. Night three at the LCCA National convention. Tonight we chat with Al Kolis about the LCCA and how it makes the convention family friendly with a variety of tours and how convention attendees get a historical overview of each city they visit. Our feature interview tonight is with Roger Farkash from TW Trainworx. We discuss project updates from the past few months,  and Roger gives you tips to help you build your layout like a pro.

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 59. Night two at the LCCA National convention. Tonight we chat with Al Kolis about the LCCA switching tracks traveling boxcar and how it can come to your home layout! Our feature interview highlights the enormous layout built by The Boston Metro Hi Railers. You'll hear about some of the challenges they have overcome and unique items they have worked into their layout. 

The Notch 6 Podcast Episode 58. It’s the first night of the 45th Annual Lionel Collectors Club of America annual convention. We’ll look at the week ahead at the convention with co-host Al Kolis and chat with Ed Boyle from O Gauge Railroading Magazine. We'll be discussing how technology affects the value of our model trains. This is a facinating topic with some view points that you may not have considered. 

In this episode of Notch 6, Joey Ricard from Trackside Scenery joins us to discuss some pratical and easy tips to bring your senery up to the next level. Everything from backdrops, to rocks, chalk weathering, and small details are covered in this show. If you're frustrated with trying to understand more advanced scenery for your model railroad, this episode is for you! 

Norfolk & Western 611 returns to active mainline service this week for the first time in almost 21 years. We catch up with Cheri George and Scott Lindsay from the Fire Up 611 campaign as they discuss their history with 611 and the current program. Trains Magazine editor Jim Wrinn also joins us for his thoughts on the resurrection of this amazing locomotive. If you have an interest in 611 this episode is for you! 

In this episode of Notch 6 I talk about a big road trip that we have coming up at the end of May to see Norfolk and Western 611. I'll also share about my experience chasing N&W Y6a 2156 through Indiana. 

The bulk of this show is a very exciting announcement, my largest project ever and it involves Madison Hardware. Plus, we'll revisit my interview with Richard Kughn former owner of Lionel. 

Mike Reagan and Matt Ashba from Lionel Trains stop by to fill us in on all the exciting news from Spring York 2015. Items include track and power, a Legacy LCS announcement, HUGE LionChief Plus announcement, and a special 115th Birthday surprise. Do not miss this episode!

Andy Edelman Vice President of Marketing from MTH Electric Trains visits Notch 6 to talk about the MTH 2015 Volume Two catalog. Topics in this episode include Railking steam and diesel,  discussion on Premier steam and diesel locomotives, a run down of all the new features and locomotives in the catalog, updates on the MTH DCS app and much more. Visit MTH Trains to read along in the catalog as you listen.

Notch 6 Episode 52- Eric Siegel of Ericstrains.com stops by to chat about his incredibly successful Youtube channel and website dedicated to O gauge trains. Eric has been instrumental in introducing many new people into the hobby through his O gauge product reviews, scenery tutorials, and more. We'll also discuss his wonderful layout, and some of his favorite products from the last year.  

Bruce Greenberg of Greenberg publishing fame stops by to talk about all things Lionel collecting. We'll discuss the history of Greenberg publishing, the methods for finding and catagorizing toy train vartiations, how to get started collecting and more. Bruce also will discuss his new book on Lionel Standard Gauge and will shed some light on one of the best known Lionel origin stories. 

It's time for the first of the 2015 O gauge catalogs! Lionel has released four brand new catalogs and Notch 6 is the first to bring you the news of this catalog directly from Lionel.  In this special episode we talk with Lionel's Matt Ashba and Mike Reagan about all the new products in this catalog. We touch on everything from scale diesels, to J3A Hudsons, 21 inch passenger cars and more.  We also cover new Lionchief and Lionchief+ sets, starter sets, and American Flyer. We suggest listening to the show while you browse the new catalog at Lionel.com There are details in this episode that you won't find anywhere else!

Notch 6 Episode 49- We start 2015 off with one of the most recognizable names in O gauge trains. MTH founder Mike Wolf will join me to discuss 35 years in business at MTH. We cover everything from his early days working for Jerry Williams, to the creation of the DCS command system, and plans for the future. This is an exciting and positive interview that will get you fired up about O gauge trains. 

It's time for my FAVORITE episode of the entire year. The Notch 6 Christmas SPECTACULAR! This year we have two great stories for you.

 

The Main Event: Lionel's Field Marketing Manager Bill Wander joins me to discuss exactly what it takes to keep the Lionel Holiday layouts running in New York City. We cover everything from planning, to set up, to maintenance. Bill also shares about what he keeps in his tool bag to service these layouts which run over 9 hours a day. He'll also tell us about some of the funny stories that have occurred while working around these layouts.

 

The Big Elf from Concord RETURNS: Mike Reagan returns to put some gift wrapping and a bow on the Vision Line Big Boy. You'll get the latest update on shipping times, the process of final assembly and more. We also discuss unlocking some less known features in these new Legacy engines such as the Big Boy, Berkshires, diesels and more. 

 

We'll conclude with a portion of the program that is quickly becoming a Christmas tradition with a few new elements added in this year. 

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Notch 6. We're kicking off the 2014 holiday season with an episode that is sure to give you some ideas for the holidays. We have special offers for you from The Madison Poster Company and Ken Bianco Jr. from Trainworld stops by as we discuss some O gauge ideas for holiday gifts and how Notch 6 can save you some money!

Be sure to check out: The Madison Poster Company and Trainworld

Notch 6 Episode 46- In this episode Disney Historian and Author Michael Broggie visits with us. Michael is the son of the original Disney Imagineer Roger Broggie and author of the book Walt Disney's Railroad Story. You'll hear about Disney's love for trains both big and small, plus stories of growing up riding Walt Disney's Carolwood Pacific Railroad in his back yard. You'll also hear a great story about Pixar cheif creative officer John Lasseter and his role in the Disney railroad story. If you love trains or Dinsey history then this episode is for you! 

Notch 6 Episode 45- In this episode I travel to Michigan to interview former Lionel owner and President Richard Kughn. I sat down with Mr. Kughn in his train room and we chatted for over an hour about Lionel Trains, Madison Hardware, the LCCA and more. There are stories about his time running Lionel and his thoughts on the past, present, and future of the O gauge hobby. Mr. Kughn is a true legend in the hobby, and it was a pleasure to speak with him. Special thanks to The Lionel Collectors Club of America who helped to arrange this meeting. Video from this interview will be posted at a later date on the LCCA website.