Best WAZ Podcasts (2025)

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Episode #259: White Rose Hobbies 59:25

2d ago59:25

59:25

Have you ever wondered what would happen if two guys with beards that worked for the Norfolk Southern joined forces to create a destination hobby shop in York, Pennsylvania?? The same question occurred to us and after an exhaustive search we stumbled across Ryan and Tom who just so happened to own White Rose Hobbies, a full-line hobby shop located …

1
Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs !! 1:14:44

9d ago1:14:44

1:14:44

Until recently, most model railroading products were imported from countries like China, Germany, or Japan under a specific harmonized tariff schedule. The tariffs were typically low and often duty-free under most trade agreements. For many imports valued under $800 shipments could often enter the country duty-free But all that’s changed so we here…

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Episode #258: Linda Eskin 58:32

16d ago58:32

58:32

Getting started in model railroading can be an overwhelming experience, with questions like what scale to choose, who makes the best products, do I need to be a skilled carpenter, will there be a need for a vast knowledge in electronics?? The questions are endless and in today’s world of social media the places to find answers can be almost as conf…

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Episode 257: Chris Wolfe 1:11:05

23d ago1:11:05

1:11:05

Our next guest may not be well known in the world of model railroading but he’s the son of Larry Wolfe, AMA Hall of Fame member and world-renowned RC jet pioneer. Chris Wolfe grew up in the back room of Jet hanger Hobbies while being exposed to all aspects of the radio control hobby. His passion for the hobby started at an early age when he began b…

1
TIB683 She says, He says - There's a faction too much friction 18:05

30d ago18:05

18:05

Nic and Waz sadly see too many couples who are disconnected, join them as they explore how this happens and share their tips on finding your way back TWL038 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox

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Episode 256: Bill Ford 1:06:54

1M ago1:06:54

1:06:54

Getting back into the hobby after a long hiatus isn’t as simple as it might sound, things have changed, prices are different, tools are better, the models run so much more smoothly, and the AML Nation is now here to help. On this episode, we talk with Bill Ford who’s always been a Model Railroader, but took time off for to pursue his career in punk…

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Episode #255: Spikey Bits 1:01:10

1M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

Turns out there’s other hobbies besides model railroading, who knew??... So here at the ole’ World Headquarters in downtown Busted Knuckle, Kentucky have decided that for the second decade of “a ModelersLife” we’re going to occasionally explore life outside this great hobby of ours. The hobby of wargaming has been growing in popularity over the las…

1
TIB682 She says, He says - Can a job title really do all that? 20:33

1M ago20:33

20:33

Nic and Waz talk through how a job title can help your parnter begin to understand how much you do within your tradie wife role. TWL036 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox

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Episode 254: David Lund 53:10

1M ago53:10

53:10

It’s always fun when we talk to somebody for the very first time and on this episode, we head to the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois to talk with David Lund an avid model railroader, brand new dad of beautiful twin girls, son of a full-time railroader and a man that understands the finer things about hotdogs. If you’re interested in anything other tha…

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Andy Zimmerman: Mr. T-Trak 1:09:29

2M ago1:09:29

1:09:29

One of the great things about this hobby of model railroading is the ability to meet people from all walks of life and while we’ve talked with Andy Zimmerman before, it’s always interesting to start the discussion talking about life on an aircraft carrier and around the world. But after that, there was plenty of talk about T-Trak, the evolution of …

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TIB681 Real Tradie Stories with Dan Boscolo from Timeless Staircases 38:23

2M ago38:23

38:23

Running a niche trade business comes with its own set of challenges, and Dan Boscolo from Timeless Staircases knows this firsthand. From starting as an apprentice to leading his own stair-building business, Dan shares how he grew his business while staying true to his craft. He also shares how support from the TIB community helped him tackle cash f…

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Joe Desmond Part Two 53:58

2M ago53:58

53:58

It’s part two of the Joe Desmond chronicles, and in this episode we discover some very cool 3-D printed pick-up truck models at Showcase Miniatures, from the original Mad About Cars series. There’s also a great discussion and some excellent instruction on how to paint these particular models while Joe introduces us to the Army Painter series of pai…

1
Waz' Happenin' with Joe Desmond 48:03

2M ago48:03

48:03

It’s been a while since we checked in with our friend Joe Desmond, an N- Scale modeler with a passion for the hobby, Conrail and connecting with other hobbyists through social media. There’s a great discussion about the pros and cons of spending valuable modeling time making YouTube videos versus working on the layout. Joe has for some years now pu…

1
TIB680 Unlocking the Art of Great Leadership and Handling Difficult Conversations 32:32

2M ago32:32

32:32

Leadership can be tricky for trade business owners trying to guide their teams. Nic chats with Dani Ferrier, founder of Lead Like a Legend, about how to tackle leadership and tough conversations in the workplace. With years of experience in hospitality and wilderness guiding across 8 countries, Dani brings a fresh take on communication and leadersh…

1
the OverLord Screws-Up 48:54

2M ago48:54

48:54

Bad behaviour or making hurtful statements can often be an insight into one’s soul, sometimes showcasing the dark and often unexpected sides of our personalities. It challenges traditional notions of morality and explores the complexity of human spirit. Bad behavior can help analyze the intricacies of the human thought process, showcasing how past …

1
Smokin' Joe D'Amato 1:46:16

3M ago1:46:16

1:46:16

We’ve interviewed so many folks over the last decade sometimes it’s hard to remember who we’ve missed over the last little while, but thanks to the modeler simply known as “Kelly,” we’ve once again teamed up with one of the most prolific and imaginative folks we’ve ever met on our travels throughout the model railroad world. Smokin’ Joe D’Amato has…

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TIB679 She Says, He Says - What's this all about? 10:46

3M ago10:46

10:46

We're introducing a new weekly episode where Nic will be joined by Waz to discuss the difference of opinions we all have in relationships! TWL032 re-run See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox

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Central of Georgia RPM 1:36:00

3M ago1:36:00

1:36:00

On this episode of who has the Evel Overlord managed to lure into the studio, the story about three guys who’ve taken it upon themselves to move the Savannah RPM to a new location is revealed, continuing a tradition in the great state of Georgia, and making it bigger and better than ever. Paul Spilman, Stephen Floyd, and Ken Preston have taken it u…

1
the Big Springfield Show 1:33:00

3M ago1:33:00

1:33:00

It’s that time of year again, the best train show in all of North America (and maybe the world) is just a few days away, and has become our yearly tradition, John Sacerdote the show Director has stopped by the AML World Headquarters in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky to tell us all the latest news that’ll get us so excited we won’t be able to sleep until …

1
TIB678 Throwback - TIB587 TradeMutt: What Loud Shirts Have to Do with Mental Health for Tradies 39:48

3M ago39:48

39:48

In just on 5 years a couple of chippy mates, Ed Ross and Dan Allen, have built a small empire in the workwear space. Perhaps more impressively, they've also set up and run their own mental health organisation that delivers free counselling and support to blue collar workers around the country. With more than $700,000 of free counselling services ro…

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All-Star Variety Hour #58 1:26:41

3M ago1:26:41

1:26:41

It’s an all new “All-Star Variety Hour” without much variety. We’ve got just one guest for this show and Daniel Banks is just starting his initial term as the Superintendent of the Central Indiana Division after serving three years as train master. When he’s not busy trying to make the NMEA grow he can be found pursuing his favorite favorite parts …

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TIB677 Throwback - TIB265 Real Tradie Guys - Starting a Business with Ben Hulsbosch from MOA Heavy Diesel 45:34

4M ago45:34

45:34

This instalment of Real Tradie Guys is a cracker. Not only is our guest a Kiwi, a heavy diesel fitter, a West Australian and a TiB Tradiepreneur... he's also a competitive wood chopper! Ben started his business recently like so many other tradies, after deciding he wanted the freedom, flexibility and financial rewards of being self employed. Ben ha…

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Episode 253: Train Wizard Productions 1:31:11

4M ago1:31:11

1:31:11

What does Harry Potter and railfanning have in common, well nothing really, unless of course you add in an Ohio native named Adam Matthews, railroad preservationist, photographer and model railroader who was inspired by his grandfather, a retired vice superintendent of shipping at US steel in Lorain, Ohio. We’ve been wanting to interview Adam for q…

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Trainfest Report 1:41:51

4M ago1:41:51

1:41:51

Started in 1971 as a one day show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Trainfest grew as the decades rolled by into a two-day show sponsored by the Wisconsin Southeastern division of the NMRA. Eventually the show moved to the Wisconsin State Fair Park and for decades was a huge success but as with everything, changes happened and those who took over were unabl…

1
a Christmas Story 1:47:58

4M ago1:47:58

1:47:58

Christmas stories bring a special warmth and magic to the season. From heartwarming tales of kindness and family to the whimsical adventures of Santa Claus and his reindeer, they capture the joy and wonder of the holidays. Nothing can bring the spirit of the holidays to life quicker than two grown men dressed in polar bear costumes. This is the hea…

1
TIB676 Throwback - TIB185 Real Tradie Wives with Amii Jones from Touchwood Tree Services 55:42

4M ago55:42

55:42

Amii Jones epitomises many 'tradie wives'. She's incredibly humble about her role in her family and business and tends to understate how much she contributes to the smooth running of both. We had a fantastic chat to one of our rock star Drawing Board members about how she's managed to 'feel the fear and do it anyway', influence her husband to make …

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"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chat #23 1:46:10

4M ago1:46:10

1:46:10

It’s time once again to check in with “Uncle” Dave and find out what’s happening in the Abeles clan. Whether it’s dealing with day-to-day life, unboxing of Rapido Trains fabulous new E8 locomotives or the trials and tribulations of day-to-day life. It’s always an interesting discussion while throwing another log on the fire and sitting back with yo…

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TIB675 Throwback - TIB034 How to Market Your Trade Business with Allan Dib from The One Page Marketing Plan 49:17

4M ago49:17

49:17

Mar-kuh-ting... that's how Waz sounds it out anyway. While marketing is done to DEATH on just about every podcast known to man, Waz and Nic find a bloke who's got it down to just one page! Although he wrote a whole book on the subject, Allan Dib reckons the best marketing plan fits on a page. We think that's a good way to keep it simple and get it …

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Family Responsibilities 1:55:26

5M ago1:55:26

1:55:26

Balancing a hobby with the responsibilities of raising a family can feel a lot like a well-practiced juggling act, but it’s definitely possible and even beneficial, for both the modeler and the family!! The hobby of model railroading can provide an outlet for creativity and stress relief, which can make you a more patient partner and parent. Findin…

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TIB674 Throwback - FIF#13 Giving and Receiving Feedback 36:36

5M ago36:36

36:36

Feedback is just information...right? Sometimes it's just not that easy. Waz and Nic give each other some feedback and discuss whether and when it's ok to give feedback to others. Oh, and how to (maybe) accept it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Warrick Bidwell and Nicole Cox

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Episode 252: the Station Inn 2:03:25

5M ago2:03:25

2:03:25

The Station Inn located in Cresson, Pennsylvania was built in 1866, situated just ten miles west of the famous Horseshoe Curve, it was originally built as a hotel for weary travelers heading east or west on the Pennsy Railroad. Over the last hundred and fifty years it’s gone through many changes including the early 90’s when it was purchased by Tom…

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TIB673 The Cost of Waiting 19:26

5M ago19:26

19:26

As the year rushes toward its end, Waz & Nic chat about the power of timing and how it plays a key role in business and life. With the holiday season fast approaching, they share insights into why waiting for the “perfect moment” often leaves you further behind. Whether it’s team morale, client relationships, or your own wellbeing, they explore how…

1
Talking Detectors 1:40:28

5M ago1:40:28

1:40:28

It’s time once again for our courageous crew of confused modelers to gather around the studio to discuss the latest happenings. Originally this podcast was intended to be about Bradd Williamson’s new talking detector, but it quickly morphed into a loosely produced edition of the “Fans.” “the TableMaster” talks about ripping out his current layout a…

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TIB672 The When, How and Why of Hiring An Apprentice with Jeff Cooke from Apprenticeship Support 23:01

5M ago23:01

23:01

If you’ve ever thought about bringing an apprentice on board but felt a bit lost in the process, you're not alone. Jeff Cooke from Apprenticeship Support Australia is here to clear up the confusion and myths around hiring apprentices. He breaks down the process, addressing common concerns like the initial learning curve, wages, and legalities, and …

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Episode 251: Magnotta Twice 1:52:10

5M ago1:52:10

1:52:10

Is the hobby growing or shrinking?? If you hang around the AML Studios long enough, there will be no doubt in your mind that we here in Busted Knuckle, Kentucky are convinced the hobby is growing rapidly day after day. But the age-old question remains, how we entice the younger generation to join the old guard in the never-ending quest of introduci…

1
TIB671 Mortgage Solutions for Tradies - How to Beat Bank Obstacles with Ryan Gair 38:14

5M ago38:14

38:14

Looking to buy a home but feeling blocked by strict bank requirements? Ryan Gair, founder of Rate Money, shares how his team helps self-employed tradies overcome the obstacles banks often set. Ryan reveals why traditional banks’ rigid loan requirements can be tough for people with variable incomes and explains how Rate Money’s tailoured lending sol…

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Episode 250: What's Neat This Week 1:43:08

5M ago1:43:08

1:43:08

So, you’re wondering what’s neat this week?? That’s easy just check out what Ken Patterson and his gang are doing over there on YouTube with the show that’s got its finger on the pulse of the hobby. We wanted to find out more about “the Dude,” Joshua Barton, Mike Budde and James Reiger, so we sat them down in front of a microphone and let the magic…

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TIB670 PRE-CHRISTMAS PART II - How To Make Christmas Merry Again! 15:09

6M ago15:09

15:09

As the holiday season approaches, trade business owners face the challenge of avoiding the dreaded Christmas hangover. In part 2 of this Pre-Christmas series, Waz & Nic shares how to keep your marketing game strong amid the pre-Christmas rush. Discover the importance of staying connected with clients through emails and social media while others may…

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John Doehring Part Two 2:14:41

6M ago2:14:41

2:14:41

John Doehring might be the most enthusiastic man in the National Model Railroad Association, as the Eastern Director he is obviously putting his heart and soul into figuring out how to make the organization and the hobby of model railroading grow. This is part two of a response and discussion about his email pointing out his view of what direction …

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TIB669 PRE-CHRISTMAS PART I - Are You About To Be Blindsided By Christmas? 18:31

6M ago18:31

18:31

Christmas is around the corner, and with it comes the typical chaos that can catch trade business owners off guard. In this first part of the Pre-Christmas series, Waz & Nic share some practical tips to help you prepare for the rush and avoid common pitfalls, like cash flow gaps that hit hard in the new year. From handling last-minute jobs to creat…

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"Uncle" Dave's Fireside Chat #22 1:50:41

6M ago1:50:41

1:50:41

It’s time once again for another exciting episode of “Uncle” Dave’s Fireside Chat. On this edition of the “chat” Dave tells the history of the latest New Jersey Transit Heritage unit, a replica of Conrail’s 4208 and the behind-the-scenes story of how it came to be, all the folks involved, and the excitement felt around the railroad as it was rolled…

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TIB668 How to Shield Your Trade Business from Legal Nightmares with Alex Solo 38:22

6M ago38:22

38:22

Ever faced issues because you didn’t have a written agreement with your clients? Alex Solo from Sprintlaw shares practical tips on securing your business structure, locking in key contracts, and protecting your brand name from the start. He talks about how clear, written contracts can save you from headaches down the line—whether it's dealing with …

1
the Martyn Jenkins Report 1:52:05

6M ago1:52:05

1:52:05

It’s the wonder from down under, visiting from the land of Oz, throwing another shrimp on the barbie, Australia where everything happens tomorrow and home to the one and only NMRA Worldwide Director at Large, Martyn Jenkins. Fresh from his time in the lower forty-eight having a walk-a-bout and here to give us a full report on what was accomplished …

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TIB667 Real Tradie Stories - Rhys & Renee from Functional Air Conditioning QLD 40:56

6M ago40:56

40:56

How do you balance growing a trade business with family life and long-term goals? Rhys and Renee from Functional Air Conditioning QLD share their story of building a successful business while juggling the demands of parenting and personal aspirations. They talk about the importance of getting the right advice early, avoiding bad habits, and how hir…

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Episode249: Derrick Magnotta 1:57:23

6M ago1:57:23

1:57:23

The NMRA has long been the flag ship organization of model railroading, originally being organized in the mid 1930’s serving a critical role through the years in the growth of the hobby. But with everything times change, people change and in today’s world organizations like the NMRA struggle to maintain their membership. Our next guest Derrick Magn…

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TIB666 You Cannot Grow Too Fast Or Too Big. Change Our Minds 16:46

7M ago16:46

16:46

Can a business really grow too fast or too big? Waz and Nic take on the question of whether it’s possible to expand too fast or get too big for your own good. They challenge the common fears around growth, pointing out that the real issue usually lies in shaky systems and lack of preparation. They also share why it's important to set clear boundari…

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Episode 247: Ray Persing 1:46:54

7M ago1:46:54

1:46:54

The NMRA Achievement Program also known as the “AP” is a guide to help you master the many crafts and skills necessary in the hobby of model railroading. As you get more proficient in of each of the skills, you can through various means have your work judged by others and if certain standards are met, will be issued a certificate acknowledging your…

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TIB665 Do You Need More Systems and Structure to Have a Successful Trade Business? 14:46

7M ago14:46

14:46

Running a trade business can feel chaotic, but it’s not always about needing more systems—it’s about improving the ones you’ve already got. Waz and Nic are breaking down how refining your existing processes can lead to more efficiency and less stress. From sales and operations to managing clients, they are sharing practical tips for streamlining yo…

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Kelly Questions Round 75: Emory Lehman III 1:44:21

7M ago1:44:21

1:44:21

Just like that old bean casserole that you found in the back of the freezer from your Aunt Mildred at Thanksgiving four years ago, or the twenty bucks you find in an old pair of jeans, this version of the “Kelly Questions” has aged like a fine wine. Emory Lehman III is a locomotive engineer for the BNSF and a longtime member of the AML Nation. Afte…

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From Novice to Aficionado: Simon's Barbecue Journey 1:18:13

7M ago1:18:13

1:18:13

We'd love to hear from you, drop us a text! What if your barbecue mishaps could lead to your most memorable grilling experiences? Join us for an engaging conversation with Simon from the Grill Shack, an Instagram sensation known for his unfiltered approach to all things barbecue. Simon shares his journey from novice to barbecue aficionado, highligh…

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