2026 Colorado Rail Proto Meet: Models, People and Fun

What drives a modeler to switch scales after decades, and how does a community of prototype and freelance modelers shape the evolution of their projects?

Around The Layout Podcast brings on voices from the Colorado Rail Proto Meet to explore the factors motivating hobbyists to rethink their modeling scale, collaborate on innovative projects, and build stronger connections within the railroad community. The episode features conversations with Joe Bohannon as he moves the Chinook Lines from HO to N scale, weighing the benefits, challenges, and decisions that come with such a significant transition. The discussion also covers the role of peer support, selling off old equipment, and developing new relationships to make the move viable and rewarding.

Additional segments include updates from Tully Models on new rolling stock, flatcar loads, and details aimed at supporting both prototype and freelance layouts. The episode highlights the collaborative atmosphere at RPM events, where sharing ideas, operational experiences, and technical advice fuels ongoing improvement for all involved. Event organizers discuss how the Freelance Forum, museum operating sessions, and themed group projects like America 250 deepen engagement for participants and create lasting bonds among modelers nationwide.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Weighing the decision to move from HO to N scale for greater layout potential • Selling and reinvesting in models as a means of committing to change • The importance of community, collaboration, and feedback at RPM events • Approaches to track planning and layout design when changing scales • The role of special themes, group operating sessions, and museum partnerships in building model railroad community • New product releases and project inspirations from Tully Models

Learn more about this episode on our website: aroundthelayout.com/263

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Broadway Limited Imports: https://broadway-limited.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, ScaleSigns.com: https://scalesigns.com/

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Oak Hill Model Railroad Track Supply: https://ohrtracksupply.com/

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Around The Layout Podcast is a production of Thirty Five Productions LLC

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