American Railroading Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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.net

https://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  

https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.aldonco.com

https://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.net

https://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  

https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.aldonco.com

https://www.enviroserve.com 

https://www.irm.org 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Tony Hatch, Senior Wall Street Transportation Analyst, Founder and President of ABH Consulting based in New York City, NY. Together they discuss railroading’s 2023 year in review, including everything from pending changes at the STB, to railroad safety and service improvements. Tune in to this final episode of Season 1 now 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: 

• Mr. Hatch is a graduate of Harvard University and has been a Sr. Analyst on Wall Street for over 20 years.
• Tony’s passion for railroading is only surpassed by his love of the L.A. Dodgers.
• Don and Tony discuss STB leadership changes announced in November 2023, and what can affect the decision of the new appointee in 2024.
• The Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern class 1 railroad merger in 2023 (now CPKC), may be the last one we see in our lifetime. Tony explains why.
• Class 1 railroad service has improved in 2023 but will always need to continuously improve as shippers’ expectations will continuously be raised.
• Tony gives a great explanation and breakdown of the well-publicized railroad labor contract negotiation in 2023, and what was nearly a labor strike…or was it?
• Class 1 railroads have been partnering with and even acquiring short-line railroads in 2023. Tony breaks down the “why’s” of these partnerships and acquisitions.
• The East Palestine, OH train derailment in February 2023 prompted many responses and calls for action and change. Tony shares his opinions on both.
• Tony shares his insight on the investment capital spending done by railroads in 2023 and beyond.
• Thank you all for joining us for Season 1 of the American Railroading Podcast! We wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! See you in 2024 for Season 2!

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.abhatchconsulting.com

https://www.railtrends.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by the man who gave him his start in the industry, guest Joseph F. Schieszler, Sr., Founder and Chairman of Rescar Companies, based in Downers Grove, IL. Together they discuss Joe’s journey from growing up in a small town near Cincinnati, OH., to the creation of railcar maintenance company Rescar; the formation of railcar fleet management, engineering, and technical services company AllTranstek; and the impact Joe has had on the industry as a Difference Maker. Tune in to this episode now 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: 

• Joe Schieszler, Sr. came from a small town near Cincinnati, OH with a HS graduating class of 66.
• Joe attended the University of Cincinnati on a full academic scholarship, graduating with a degree in chemical engineering.
• In 1969 Joe co-founded a company called Resco, who specialized in reclaiming and repairing box car load restraining equipment, with an initial personal investment of $3,000.00. 
• In 1975 Mr. Schieszler founded Rescar, to clean, repair, paint, and line railcars, which has since grown to be the largest provider of railcar maintenance in North America.
• Joe has 7 children, all of whom have worked for Rescar, 3 of whom have overseen the daily operations since his semi-retirement.
• AllTranstek was formed in 1999, who today provides fleet management services for over 300,000 railcars, and provide tech services including engineering services, regulatory and NDT support, training, education, and more, with a large presence on industry committees and task forces.
• Joe has quite the success story and has made a significant impact on the industry and to those in it.
• Mr. Schieszler has enjoyed 38 wonderful years of marriage with his wife LaVerne, and they continue to reside in the Chicago suburbs today.
• Joe Schieszler, Sr. is the first recipient of the American Railroading – Lifetime Achievement Award.
• The American Railroading Podcast has now been downloaded in 22 countries!

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.rescar.com 

https://www.alltranstek.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Patty Long, President of the Railway Supply Institute (RSI), based in Washington, DC. Together they discuss the resources RSI provides the railroad industry as a whole, as well as services they provide for their members as a trade association, the jobs the railway supply industry creates, the impact the industry has on the U.S. Economy as well as an update on shipping LNG by rail tank cars. Tune in to this episode now 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 a YouTube channel (@AmericanRailroadingPodcast) and is soon joining Instagram!
• Patty Long has over 30 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, and communications.
• (Per RSI) The Railway Supply Institute is the only all-inclusive trade association for railway suppliers, representing more than 250 companies including manufacturers, railcar owners, lessors and shippers.
• RSI was originally created by combining two associations, the Rail Progress Institute and Rail Supply Association. 
• While RSI is based in Washington, DC., they are not a government entity, they are a trade association who act on behalf of their members, including with the FAST Act, as an example.
• In addition to their interaction with government agencies, RSI also works closely with the Association of American Railroads (AAR), including the AAR Tank Car Committee’s, Tank Car Safety Project via the RSICTC (RSI Committee on Tank Cars).
• One of Patty’s goals is to raise people’s awareness of the importance of the railway supply industry.
• The railway supply industry is a major contributor to the U.S. economy, supporting nearly 700k jobs, $76B in GDP and $15.5B in tax contributions.
• The PHMSA HM-264A ruling issued 09/01/23 was not a ban on shipping fossil fuels by rail.
• There need to be incentives to ensure the continued growth of the railway industry.

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.RSIweb.org 

https://AAR.org 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Ted Johnston, GM of The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Manitou Springs, CO. Together they discuss what you’ll experience on your fun rail excursion to the top of Pikes Peak on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, as well all the Broadmoor adventures and locations you can enjoy while in the Manitou Springs, CO and Colorado Springs, CO areas. Tune in to this episode now 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 continues to be ranked in the top 10% of all podcasts globally!
• The first Cog Railway was built in West Yorkshire, England in 1812.
• Manitou Springs, CO was founded for its natural mineral springs, once thought to help cure tuberculosis.
• Pikes Peak has quite an amazing history of events, including having the 2nd oldest automobile race in the U.S., the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, held in June each year.
• The Pikes Peak Cog Railway underwent a $100M renovation that took 3 years to complete, from 2018 to 2021. 
• Along the ride to the top is the former Section Crew House, which has a unique connection with the Pikes Peak Cog Railway family. 
• The view of the Aspen groves from up above is stunning.
• Once you’ve reached the top, on a clear day you can see as far as Denver from the new visitor’s center.
• There are more exciting Broadmoor adventures to enjoy nearby including the Broadmoor Hotel, Soaring Adventures (zip-lining), Fly Fishing Camp, Cloud Camp, Seven Falls, and more!
• The WINNER of the 2023 Honor Our Heroes gift package is announced!

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.cograilway.com 

https://www.broadmoor.com 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Todd Tranausky, VP of Rail and Intermodal at FTR, based in Houston, TX. Together they delve into the U.S. Economy and rail’s role in it. They discuss rail’s long history of contributions to the U.S. Economy, give a deep-dive breakdown of our economy, as well as where the rail industry and our economy are today and indicators to look for regarding where we’re headed. Tune in to this episode now 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 is now ranked in the top 10% of all podcasts globally!
• The first U.S. railroad was said to have begun in the late 1700’s, and railroads have contributed to the U.S. economy ever since by moving freight and uniting the country with an unprecedented transportation network.
• In 1860 railroads carried 3.2 billion ton-miles of freight. In 2018 that number skyrocketed to 1.7 trillion ton-miles.
• The U.S. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) has normalized since the initial post-pandemic highs.
• Although inflation is high, we’re still experiencing slow growth.
• Just-in-time inventory versus just-in-case inventory, it’s a balancing act.
• The current new home market has affected railcar movements, such as lumber products.
• Intermodal rail is a driving economic factor because a lot of consumer goods are moved that way.
• Todd tells us what key economic indicator to keep an eye on the most.
• The new American Railroading merchandise should be available on our website at www.AmericanRailroading.net by the time our September 2023 episode airs!
• The deadline for nominations for the Honor our Heroes gift package is 08/31/23. Instructions on how to submit a nominee are given at the end of the episode.

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.americanhistory.SI.edu 

https://www.up.com/ 

https://www.aar.org/

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Denson White, CCO of APM Terminals, Pier 400 in the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach, CA. Together they delve into Supply Chain and the relationship between the American ports and rail. They discuss the important roles that both the ports and rail play in the Supply Chain process, as well as the short-term and long-term effects that the Covid 19 pandemic had on Supply Chain, and lessons learned. Tune in to this episode now 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 shares his exciting first experience with a container ship.
• APM Terminals has 70 locations around the world.
• According to the Union Pacific Railroad website, 48% of rail traffic is generally intermodal shipments. 
• “Containerization” as we know it today didn’t exist until the 1950’s, which included the standardization of shipping container dimensions.
• Intermodal has been the fastest growing rail segment over the last 25 years.
• Inland ports play a vital role in the Supply Chain process.
• Railroads are the most fuel-efficient way to move freight over-land.
• Freight railroads account for roughly 40% of U.S. long distance freight volume.
• According to the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, freight shipments are expected to increase by 30% by 2040.
• The American Railroading Podcast has merch coming soon! Including their own Challenge Coin!

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/ 

https://www.apmterminals.com/ 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX 

https://www.up.com/ 

https://www.aar.org/

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Jimmy Rogers – Co-Founder, President and Executive Director of Boots for Troops. Together they touch on the history of the relationship between the U.S. military and the railroad industry, and they discuss the role Boots for Troops plays in boosting the morale of those deployed, as well as showing appreciation for our veterans. They also discuss a drawing the American Railroading Podcast and Boots for Troops are partnering on to recognize a veteran in the railroad industry. Tune in to this episode now 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 . So come aboard!

KEY POINTS: 

• Don shares his family’s history in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Per the Association of American Railroads (AAR), railroads have been a vital partner in U.S. military operations for nearly 200 years.
• According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, about 926,000 veterans were in occupations directly involving transportation in 2019.
• Jimmy created Boots for Troops as a Go Fund Me page in 2015 while still deployed and serving in the Navy on an aircraft carrier (the USS Theodore Roosevelt).
• The mission statement of Boots for Troops is “The mission of Boots for Troops is to uplift and empower the overall morale and mental well-being of deployed service members defending our freedom”.
• Boots for Troops sends an average of 100 personalized care packages a month to those who are deployed, which include a new pair of boots.
• Jimmy shares his personal experience having received a care package from home while deployed, as well as testimonials of others, and the impact it made.
• Boots for Troops offers veterans programs as well, and they have partnered with the American Railroading Podcast to offer a drawing to recognize a veteran in the railroad industry.
• Of all the fundraising events that Boots for Troops holds, the Boots and Suits Gala in June and Concert in the Country in October held near Houston, TX are the biggest.
• The American Railroading Podcast has merch coming soon! Including their own Challenge Coin.

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/

https://boots4troops.org/ 

Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh, is joined by guest Kari Gonzales, President and CEO of MxV Rail (formerly TTCI). Together they discuss the Research, Education, Technology and Training, including Firefighter and EMT safety and HAZMAT training, that MxV Rail brings to the railroad industry, as well as the immense amount of data MxV Rail has compiled over 30 years of research. They also discuss the company’s recent transition from TTCI to MxV Rail that Kari has spearheaded, what new technology is on the horizon and the training classes and tours that you can take at their facility in Pueblo, CO. Tune in to this episode now 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 . So come aboard!

KEY POINTS: 

• Don shares his experience from a recent visit to MxV Rail’s facility in Pueblo, CO., including a tour of their labs, testing areas and first responder safety and HAZMAT training center (SERTC).
• MxV Rail is a subsidiary of the Association of American Railroads (AAR).
• The AAR is an industry trade group representing primarily all the major freight railroads of North America ( United States, Canada, and Mexico ). Amtrak and some regional commuter railroads are also members.
• Kari announces previously unreleased “breaking news” on the episode. 
• The efforts MxV Rail has made to improve safety and reliability in the railroad industry goes back to the 1980’s. 
• Over 76,000 First Responders have received training from MxV Rail (TTCI) since the inception of their SERTC program in 1986, which includes a FREE training program for those Firefighters and EMT’s who qualify for the NDPC grant.
• The AAR provides annual funding to MxV Rail to perform research, which for 2023 is estimated at $13.3M.
• Kari shares her experience as a board member of the League of Railway Women. 
• MxV Rail has over 1,000 Technology Digests based on 30 years of research data, now available to the public for the first time.
• Their Facility for Accelerated Service Testing (or FAST) Program achieved a significant milestone in 2021, in its freight rail research program accumulating 5 Billion gross tons of freight train loading.

LINKS MENTIONED: 

https://www.americanrailroading.net/ 

https://therevolutionrailgroup.com/

https://www.mxvrail.com/