American Railroading Podcast

Episodios

• Supply Chain – The Greater Houston Port Bureau with President, Capt. Eric Carrero 03.07.2026 1h 6m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Captain Eric Carrero (U.S. Coast Guard ret.) – President of the Greater Houston Port Bureau. Together they discuss the many roles of the U.S. Coast Guard including port security, the recent and first ever Navy Fleet Week in Houston, the impact of the Greater Houston Ports on the U.S. economy, the short-term and long-term impacts on the greater Houston ports by the closing of the Strait of Hormuz due to the war in Iran, the very important supply chain relationship between the greater Houston ports and railroads, current and future port expansion plans and its potential impact on the rail industry, America’s 250th birthday, and much more! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 87 countries, nearly 50% of the world!Don announced that nominations are now open for the 4th annual Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. All nominations are due to info@Boot4Troops.com by 09/14/26.Prior to becoming President of the Greater Houston Port Bureau, Captain Carrero served 26 years in the U.S. Coast Guard before retiring.Founded in 1929 as the result of diverse public and semi-public agencies interested in furthering the development of the Port of Houston, the Port Bureau is a member driven, non-profit trade organization dedicated to the success of the port region.Captain Carrero discusses Houston’s recent and first ever Navy Fleet Week, why it’s so important, and the long-standing relationship between the greater Houston ports and the United States military.The Greater Houston Port Bureau hosts the number 1 U.S. port by tonnage, the largest container terminal on the Gulf, the number 4 cruise ship terminal in the U.S., and its economic impact is over $1.1 trillion dollars to the U.S. economy.Captain Carrero explains a technique used by Pilots passing one another in the Houston ship channel known as the “Texas Chicken”.Don and Captain Carrero discuss the importance of the relationship between the Texas ports and the railroad industry in the supply chain not only for Texas, but the entire U.S. as well as global markets.Last but certainly not least, Captain Carrero explains the short-term and long-term impacts of the Iran war, and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz, on the oil and gas shipments to and from the greater Houston ports, as well as potential impacts on the rail industry as a result.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcasthttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshXhttps://www.enviroserve.comDon Walsh | LinkedInhttps://www.TXGulf.orghttps://www.PTRA.com
• The Importance of Rail Advocacy with Betsy Cantwell, President of GoRail 29.05.2026 1h 1m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Betsy Cantwell – President of GoRail. Together they discuss the legislation pending in DC that will impact the rail industry such as the Railway Safety Act and overall Surface Transportation Bill. They do a deep dive into the current and impressive safety record of the rail industry, review all the programs GoRail offers to foster local community-based rail advocacy such as Rail Champions, as well as their Rail Grant Hub, accessibility to freight rail policy and data, and much more! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 83 countries, nearly 50% of the world!Don announces the celebration of the podcast’s 3-Year Anniversary! Time sure flies!Since joining GoRail in 2015, Betsy has led the organization’s advocacy and communications strategy to build public and political support for freight rail, including earned media, digital campaigns, grassroots mobilization, and message development, aimed at making freight rail policy accessible and compelling to the communities it impacts the most.Per the GoRail website at www.GoRail.org, founded in 2004 on the principle that “all politics is local,” GoRail believes that direct input from constituents is the best way to communicate with elected officials. GoRail works with thousands of community leaders across the country to tell the local story of freight rail — stronger economies, more jobs and cleaner skies.Among all the data available on the GoRail Website is a link to “Check Data for Rail in Your State”, which not only provides the data and benefits of rail in your state, but also gives contact information for your state reps and each major railroad.Betsy gives her opinion on the potential pros and cons of the pending Railway Safety Act and Surface Transportation Act.2025 has been reported as the safest year on record for the rail industry, with improvements across almost every safety metric. According to the Association of American Railroads, Freight Rail Safety - Fact Sheet available at www.AAR.org , the overall train accident rate declined 14 percent year-over-year, while derailments, equipment caused accidents, and track caused accidents each fell to the lowest levels in the railroad industry’s history.In a press conference from March 13, 2023, former STB Chairman, Marty Oberman stated in part regarding rail safety: “The Bureau of Transportation Statistics documented last year (2022) that 94% of all hazardous materials spills occurred on truck and only 1% occurred on rail. So if you were trying to make sure communities all over the country are safer, you would want to move more of this material by train, rather than by truck”.Don encourages everyone to follow him on his LinkedIn page at Don Walsh | LinkedIn , and to review his article he published 05/21/26 titled “Railroads Helped Build America & New Policy will Shape the Future of Railroading”. If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com Don Walsh | LinkedInhttps://www.GoRail.org https://www.AAR.org https://www.SERTC.org
• Tank Car Regulatory Update – Q2 2026 - with Dave Ronzani of AllTranstek 30.04.2026 1h 5m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Dave Ronzani - Director of Railcar Regulatory Compliance for AllTranstek. Together they discuss the current state of tank car regulations with an update after the recent AAR Tank Car Committee meetings in Nashville, TN., including the status of PHMA’s proposed rulemaking HM-265 as well as their opinions of potential pros and cons; an open FRA Hazardous Materials Incident Investigation (HMII) regarding tank car angle valves; NAR’s (Non-Accident Releases); AAR CPC 1435 regarding tank car vacuum relief valves; docket T88.12 regarding tank car visual inspections; other “hot button” topics and much more! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 82 countries around the world! Nearly 50% of the world!Dave has over 40 years of experience in Quality Assurance and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and holds an American Society for Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT) Level III certificate in 7 NDT methods.Don gives an overview of AllTranstek, including their history of how and when they were formed.Mr. Ronzani discusses the different entities involved in tank car regulations and how their roles interact with one another.Dave explains what an FRA Hazardous Materials Investigation (HMII) is and how it can affect everyone involved in process, from the car owner to the car and component manufacturers, and everyone in between.Don and Dave discuss the pending PHMSA rulemaking HM-265 regarding the potential of taking away sole responsibility for tank car certificates of construction and shop certification for M-1002 and M-1003 from the AAR, and their opinions of potential pros and cons of the change.Mr. Ronzani discusses AAR CPC 1435 related to certain tank car vacuum relief valves whose AAR service trial wasn’t completed properly, what tank car owners need to do about them and by when.Don shares various best practices from real-life experiences he’s had.Dave’s biggest industry pet-peeve is…..You’ll have to tune in to find out! 😊If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.AllTranstek.com https://www.AAR.org
• The State of our Economy - Q1 2026 with Professor John Doggett – UT Austin 31.03.2026 1h 13m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest John Doggett – Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, McCombs School of Business, Management Department. Together they discuss the current state of the U.S. economy, the military action in Iran and its potential short-term and long-term effects, the partial government shutdown, the upcoming Fed Chair change and likelihood of rate cuts, the rapid growth of AI, areas of market growth to watch, and what it all means for the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 68 countries around the world!Having begun his teaching career in 1979, this will be Professor Doggett’s final year teaching full time as he will go down to teaching one spring semester a year at the University of Texas in Austin in 2027.Per Professor Doggett, one of the sobering things when you contemplate retiring is, you don’t realize how much of who you are is what you do.Regarding the current political climate, John feels that it would be good to recall the words of President Clinton where he said regarding the most important thing to voters, “It’s the economy stupid”, which he believes will be reflected in the mid-term elections.With current Fed Chair Powell’s term ending soon, and assuming the President’s nominee Kevin Warsh is confirmed as his replacement, Professor Doggett gives his opinion on what Kevin Warsh’s priorities once taking the position over may be, and whether or not he feels there will be rate cuts in the remainder of 2026.Don and Professor Doggett discuss the military action in Iran, the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, the short-term and long-term effects on the oil and gas markets, as well as when the military action may end.Professor Doggett explains in great detail why the low birth rate not only here in the U.S. but globally is so important and so concerning.Per Professor Doggett, AI is changing our world at a more rapid pace than anything he’s seen in his lifetime.According to Professor Doggett, if he were a betting man, the markets he would focus on would be….(You’ll have to listen or watch to find out). If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com
• Industry Update – Mergers, Tariffs & Trends with Tony Hatch – Sr Wall Street Transportation Analyst 27.02.2026 1h 6m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tony Hatch, President of ABH Consulting and Sr. Wall Street Transportation Analyst. Together they discuss the current status and potential pros and cons of the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, what the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding tariffs under IEEPA means and doesn’t mean, a potential 3rd ”Golden Age” of short line railroading, market trends and risks, a look ahead into 2026 and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 66 countries around the world!Mr. Hatch is a graduate of Harvard University and has been a Sr. Transportation Analyst on Wall Street for over 20 years.Tony shares how he went from a degree in History at Harvard to becoming a Transportation Analyst.Mr. Hatch explains the revised STB rules / approval criteria / threshold that the proposed UP & NS merger and all future potential mergers must satisfy.Tony does a deep dive into the potential pros and cons of the proposed UP & NS merger.Don discusses the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the President’s ability to impose import tariffs under IEEPA (the International Emergency Economic Act), what the ruling means, and doesn’t mean.Tony gives his opinion and the current status of tariffs and trade wars and their effect on the U.S. economy.Mr. Hatch gives us an update and a look ahead into 2026 not only for the U.S., but for Mexico and Canada as well.Tony gives his thoughts on why he feels a 3rd “Golden Age” of short line railroading may be on the horizon.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.railtrends.com https://www.abhatchconsulting.com
• 2026 – Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Headed with host Don Walsh 30.01.2026 1h 1m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this, our first episode of Season 4, our host Don Walsh is our guest. Don takes us on a journey through 2025 and gives us a recap of each of the podcast episodes from Season 3 along with a look behind the scenes and shares his thoughts not heard before on the episodes themselves. Don also discusses audience feedback and his favorite moments from Season 3, after which he gives his thoughts on where the industry is headed in 2026 and some hints on where the podcast is headed in Season 4. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode including episode videos and more 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 with a 300% increase in downloads in the last year!The STB offers Stakeholder Committees including the Railroad Shipper Transportation Advisor Council, the Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee, the National Grain Car Council and the newly created Passenger Rail Advisory Committee.President Trump’s proposed plan to improve the economy and reduce inflation is said to be like spokes on a wheel including reducing the cost of energy by increasing production, reducing government spending, reducing regulations and restrictions, reducing taxes and bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.While intermodal railcars make up only 4% of the U.S. national fleet, 48% of all U.S. rail traffic is generally intermodal rail shipments.Using Ai technology, the Duos Technologies - Railcar Inspection Portal (RIP) can inspect railcars at operating speeds from 3 MPH to 125 MPH, and report findings within 60 seconds.Most new tank car builds (at this time) are due to replacement needs as tank cars age out.Today there are approximately 2 million registered railcars in the U.S. national fleet, of which 22% (or 440,000) are tank cars, all of which require HM-216b qualification at regular intervals.Founded in 1838, Galveston, an island port city in Texas, quickly became the major hub for trade and immigration for not only Texas, but the entire southwest United States, and was the home of the first operating railroad in Texas, founded in 1850.The issue with tariffs isn’t whether they’re good or bad, it’s that they keep fluctuating, they’re not consistent, which makes it hard for businesses to plan.While there are 6 Class 1 railroads in the U.S. (UP, BNSF, CSX, NS, CN, and CPKC), there are 603 short line railroads.The AAR establishes safety, security and operating standards that provide seamless and safe operations across America’s nearly 140,000-mile freight rail network.Don Walsh gives his opinion of the industry outlook for 2026!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com
• Rail Resources - The Association of American Railroads with President & CEO – Ian Jefferies 29.12.2025 1h

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode, our Season 3 Finale, our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Ian Jefferies, President and CEO of the Association of American Railroads! Together they discuss why the AAR was created, who the AAR is, what they do, all the tremendous resources they offer their members and the industry as a whole, including resources like their subsidiaries RailInc and MxVRail. Ian also gives his thoughts on industry highlights from 2025, and what he’s looking forward to in 2026. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!In addition to his role as President & CEO of the AAR, Mr. Jefferies also serves as a Board Member for Railinc, MxV Rail and GoRail. Formed in 1934, the AAR has been the leading voice for the freight rail industry, driving policy, research, and technology, to enhance safety and efficiency.Working with elected officials and leaders in Washington, DC, the AAR advances sound public policy that supports the interests of the freight rail industry, ensuring they continue to meet America’s transportation needs today and tomorrow.As the standard-setting organization for North America’s railroads, the AAR establishes safety, security and operating standards that provide seamless and safe operations across America’s nearly 140,000-mile freight rail network.The AAR’s expert economists prepare weekly, quarterly and annual statistical reports that provide insight into the operations of North America’s freight railroads.Through its two subsidiaries, Railinc and MxV Rail, the AAR supports continued research and development projects that enhance the safety, security and efficiency of the railroad industry.Ian gives us his industry highlights of 2025, and shares what he’s looking forward to in 2026.Stay tuned for our first episode of Season 4!Thank you all for your support over our first 3 seasons! Please continue to share and leave 5-Star reviews! LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.AAR.org https://www.Public.Railinc.com https://www.MxVRail.com
• 2025 Christmas Special with Country Music Artist Bri Bagwell 02.12.2025 1h

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our 2nd Annual Christmas Special our host Don Walsh is joined by guest and 15-time Texas country music chart-topper Bri Bagwell! Together they discuss Bri’s incredible journey to becoming Texas Female Country Music Artist of the Decade, as well as Bri’s favorite Christmas songs and memories. Bri gives amazing live performances of her favorite train song and a beautiful Christmas song that she co-wrote with her dad and her cousin. Bri also shares several other Christmas songs that she wrote and performed for us to enjoy, including the stories behind each one of them. Tune in to this very special Christmas episode and enjoy some Christmas cheer! 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!Bri Bagwell’s musical journey began early, writing poems and learning piano, before joining her twin brothers’ band at just 14 years old.As her career has blossomed, Bri has performed on syndicated TV events such as NBC’s Lone Star New Years Eve, and with legends and contemporaries alike, including Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert, Dwight Yoakam, Robert Earl Keen, Kacey Musgraves, Reckless Kelly, and more.Bri plays an amazing and emotional acoustic version of “Play a Train Song” live, in tribute to country music singer and songwriter Todd Snider who recently passed away (November 2025).We get a special treat to hear Bri play a live piano version of “Cowboy Christmas Eve”, which she co—wrote with her dad and her cousin Kip Calahan Young, who performs a duet with Bri on the studio version.You, our wonderful audience, get to enjoy several other of Bri Bagewell’s Christmas songs on this 2nd Annual Christmas Special, which include pictures and videos, which you can see on our YouTube channel.As of November 2025, Bri has achieved her 15th #1 song in Texas radio with “Hit the Highway”. Be sure to check out Bri’s upcoming concert tour including her “A Very Desert Christmas” shows performing with her friends Drew Kennedy, Kristi Grider and Josh Grider in December 2025 in Fort Worth, TX and The Woodlands, TX. You can see all tour dates at www.BriBagwell.com .Stay tuned for our final episode of 2025 in late December! You don’t want to miss it!Everyone at the American Railroading Podcast wishes you and yours a very Merry Christmas!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.bribagwell.com
• The Story of American Short Line Railroads with ASLRRA President – Chuck Baker 31.10.2025 1h 21m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Chuck Baker, President of the American Short Line & Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). Together they discuss the story of the American short line railroads including their origins, their near demise due to regulations and increased trucking,  their re-birth after deregulation, their significant role and impact on the U.S. economy, the effect of a government shutdown on the industry, and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS:  The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 58 countries around the world, on 38 podcast platforms!Although growing up in Baltimore, MD., Mr. Baker is a graduate of Rice University in Houston, TX.Prior to becoming President of the ASLRRA, Chuck was a lobbyist specializing in government affairs in Washinton, DC for 15 years representing railroad clients before the Federal Government, including Congress & administrative agencies such as the DOT,FRA, STB, DHS & TSA.Don and Chuck discuss what criteria determines a Class 1 railroad.A short line railroad’s role is to be the “First Mile, Last Mile” provider to local and regional businesses and communities, working in conjunction with Class 1 railroads.While there are 6 Class 1 railroads in the U.S. (UP, BNSF, CSX, NS, CN, and CPKC), there are 603 short line railroads.Short line railroads are a great American success story, employing 17,800 employees nationwide, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy.Chuck shares his opinion on the effect of a government shutdown on the railroad industry.The ASLRRA offers its members not only advocacy, but also training, grant assistance, disaster preparedness, education funds & industry scholarships, environmental initiatives, webinars, industry events, and more.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.ASLRRA.org
• Industry Update – Mergers, Traffic, Trends & Forecasts with Eric Starks – Chairman of FTR 29.09.2025 1h 6m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR (Freight Transportation Research Associates). Together they discuss the pending $85 billion dollar Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, the current status of the U.S. economy, an update on U.S. manufacturing and production including new railcar production, rail traffic, market trends and risks, a forecast for 2026 and much more. We also announce our 2025 Honor our Heroes Award winner! Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 57 countries around the world!The podcast continues to experience incredible growth in downloads and subscribers. Mr. Starks is a graduate of Indiana University and was an Adjunct Lecturer at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business for 4 years, teaching MBA students Transportation and Distribution Strategy, and was instrumental in creating the Indiana University Transportation Board.Eric does a deep-dive into our current U.S. economy and GDP and gives us his opinion on whether or not they are where we expected them to be.Don and Eric discuss Tariffs, what their intended use is by the current administration, and whether or not they are providing the intended results.Eric gives his opinion of the pros and cons of the pending UP and NS merger, and they discuss the recently announced BNSF and CSX partnership.Don and Eric do a thorough review of current rail traffic, velocity, dwell times, commodity and car type trends, and more.You don’t want to miss Eric’s 2026 forecast!Our 2025 – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award winner is……You’ll have to listen to the end of the episode to find out. 😊If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review…and please Share the episode!LINKS MENTIONED:https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.ftrintel.com 
• Fun Rail Excursions – The Galveston Railroad Museum with Director of Marketing, Mary Jo Naschke 29.08.2025 53m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this Fun Rail Excursions episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Mary Jo Naschke, Director of Marketing for the Galveston Railroad Museum in Galveston, TX. Together they discuss the history of Galveston as a major port city in a young and growing United States in the 1800’s and the vital importance the railroad played in Galveston and beyond in the southwest United States. They also go through all the wonderful exhibits at the museum, the education offered, the beautiful venues available, their upcoming events as the holidays approach, and much more. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 55 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last month, including a 200% increase in audio and video downloads!Founded in 1838, Galveston, an island port city in Texas, quickly became the major hub for trade and immigration for not only Texas, but the entire southwest United States.Galveston was the home of the first operating railroad in Texas, founded in 1850.After the devastating hurricane of 1900 that damaged nearly every building on Galveston island and took thousands of lives, the railroad bridge was the only bridge that remained standing that connected the island of Galveston to Houston.Founded in 1982 by Mary Moody, supported by the Moody Foundation, the Galveston Railroad Museum was created to preserve the history of railroading in Galveston and the effect it had on Texas and beyond.Don and Mary Jo go through all the wonderful exhibits, many of which are interactive; the education the museum offers all ages, which includes college internships; the venues on site for weddings, birthdays and corporate events; and the rail hotel which you can stay at on-site.The museum has several upcoming events which include ghost tours, The Ghostly Feather interactive mystery, the Rail Baron’s Ball which is an evening of fundraising that includes amazing silent and live auction items, and The Polar Express which actually leaves the station and requires pajamas and a love for hot chocolate.Please submit your favorite veteran of our U.S. Armed Forces currently in or retired from the rail industry for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. by 09/12/25. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.galvestonrrmuseum.org
• Tank Car Regulations, Rulings & Their Impact with Tom DeLafosse – SVP of QA & Regulatory for Salco 31.07.2025 1h 27m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tom DeLafosse, SVP of Quality and Regulatory Compliance for Salco Products. Together they do a deep dive into tank car regulations, rulings and pending rulings such as HM-216b, HM-265 and HM-264, including the history of the industry before these regulations and rulings, the reasoning behind the creation of them, and their current as well as potential future impact on car owners, repair shops and shippers. They also take a brief moment to discuss the history of Salco Products and A. Stucki. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 53 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last month, including a 300% increase in audio and video downloads!Tom has 50 years of experience in the railcar industry in quality assurance, design, repair and inspection of railroad tank cars.Don trained under Tom for his Level II NDT certifications in 1998, shortly after he entered the industry.Today there are approximately 2 million registered railcars in the U.S. national fleet, of which 22% (or 440,000) are tank cars, all of which require HM-216b qualification at regular intervals.Tom and Don discuss the challenges tank car certified repair shops face today, and some of the potential causes for lengthy shop cycle times.Tom gives his very detailed thoughts on the pending ruling HM-265, as well as his opinion of the potential pros and cons.Don provides a final update from PHMSA on HM-264.Please submit your favorite veteran of our U.S. Armed Forces currently in or retired from the rail industry for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. by 09/12/25. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.salcoproducts.comhttps://www.stucki.com
• The State of the New Tank Car Market w/ Kate Suprenuk – President of Leasing & Manufacturing – UTLX & Procor 30.06.2025 47m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Kate Suprenuk, President of Leasing & Manufacturing at Union Tank Car (UTLX) & Procor. Together they discuss the current state of the new tank car market, the tank car leasing market, and they touch on the history of Union Tank Car Company, formed in 1891 by Standard Oil Company founded by John D. Rockefeller. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally, now downloaded in 52 countries around the world!The podcast has experienced incredible growth in the last year, including a 137% increase in video views on our YouTube channel!In 1891 the Union Tank Car Company (originally named the Union Tank Line) is formed by Standard Oil Company, to operate their tank car fleet.Tank cars have evolved greatly over the years from the first generation created in 1865, which was comprised of a flat car with two wooden barrels.Of the many factors affecting the new tank car market, interest rates are a major factor.The parent company of UTLX and Procor, Marmon Holdings, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway Company, is comprised of 11 industry groups and over 30,000 team members, 6,000 of whom are in the rail industry.The Marmon Motor Company won the inaugural Indy 500 in 1911 with the Marmon Wasp.You can now submit your nomination for our 3rd Annual – American Railroading Podcast - Honor our Heroes Award, sponsored by our friends at Boots for Troops in Tomball, TX. Details given in the episode.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.utlx.com https://www.procor.comhttps://www.marmon.com
• Tech Talk – Advances in Safety Using Ai Railcar Inspections with Jeff Necciai CTO of DuosTech 30.05.2025 1h 7m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Jeff Necciai, Chief Technology Officer of Duos Technologies, Inc. Together they discuss the importance of timely and accurate railcar inspections, how far railcar inspection technology has come over the last 25 to 30 years, how important railcar inspections are to safety, the role Ai is playing in the advancement of railcar inspection technology, and its ability to promptly communicate its findings. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!When Don began inspecting railcars, paper and pencil were the standard inspection method of the day.Don was involved in early Beta testing of the first cradle to grave, real-time system for railcar repair facilities. Jeff is listed on several technology-based patents and has contributed to articles for publications such as American Shipper, World Cargo News and the Journal of Commerce.Duos Technologies was founded 25 years ago, with its initial foray into the railroad industry involving surveillance technology.  Using Ai technology, the Duos Technologies - Railcar Inspection Portal can inspect railcars at operating speeds from 3 MPH to 125 MPH.The Duos RIP system can report findings within 60 seconds.Don states during his closing “My Two Cents” segment in part that improving railcar safety (via timely and accurate inspections) also improves security, asset downtime and overall costs.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.duostechnologies.com
• Supply Chain – The Effects of Trade Wars & Tariffs with Denson White of APM Terminals 30.04.2025 1h 4m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Denson White, Chief Commercial Officer of APM Terminals, Pier 400 in the Port of Los Angeles / Long Beach, CA. Together they discuss the current state of the U.S. supply chain, the effect that trade wars and tariffs can have on it, as well as how lessons learned during Covid will help those in supply chain today, and the surprising year-to-date stats of U.S. carload and intermodal traffic. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: Don Walsh dedicates this episode to the loving memory of his niece, Dr. JaeLynn Bobbie Stewart. Love you J.B. This is Denson’s 2nd appearance on the podcast. The first being Season 1, Episode 5 titled “Supply Chain – The Relationship Between Ports & Rail”. Be sure to go back and give it a listen.In 2024, APM Terminals completed a $73M rail expansion project at Pier 400 in the Port of Los Angeles, CA., which is projected to eliminate 1,200 truck trips per day by 2040.While intermodal railcars make up only 4% of the U.S. national fleet, 48% of all U.S. rail traffic is generally intermodal rail shipments.Intermodal freight transport is defined as involving the transportation of freight in an intermodal container, using multiple modes of transportation (i.e. ship, rail, truck and aircraft) , without any physical handling of the freight inside the container when changing modes.As discussed in Episode 3 of Season 3, the Government is the 800lb gorilla in the room, as they are always tinkering with things like regulations, taxes, interest rates and tariffs.Denson provides an insider’s viewpoint on how the current tariffs and pending trade war with China are already effecting U.S. ports and the overall supply chain.Don gives an update on PHMSA’s pending rulings HM264b and HM265 at the end of the episode after “”My 2 Cents”, so please stay tuned until the very end.The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts worldwide! Tune in to hear and see why!If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.enviroserve.com https://www.APMTerminals.com https://www.UP.comhttps://www.AAR.orghttps://www.Trains.com
• The State of our Economy & Proposed Tariffs with Economic Analyst – Tom Landstreet 31.03.2025 1h 23m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our 2nd Anniversary episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Tom Landstreet, Co-Founder of Trusco Investment Management. Together they discuss the current state of the U.S. economy post-Presidential election, and they do a deep dive into not only where our economy is today, but how we got here, how tariffs and other proposed methods or solutions may potentially help or contribute to inflation, and what this all can mean for the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Mr. Landstreet is also Founder and CEO of N3L Partners, a strategic investment partnership that specializes in analyzing government policies, betting both with and against government, in a classic long/short structure, investing where policy meets price.You must have a good sense of humor to be able to handle the ups and downs of the U.S. economy and continual government policy changes.Dr. Arthur Laffer’s 4 Grand Kingdom’s of Marco Economics are Monetary, Fiscal, Trade and Regulatory.The definition of inflation is too much money chasing too few goods.Our national debt is at $36 trillion dollars, and the interest on the debt is $1.5 trillion dollars, or $2.3 billion dollars per day.President Trump’s proposed plan to improve the economy and reduce inflation is said to be like spokes on a wheel including reducing the cost of energy by increasing production, reducing government spending, reducing regulations and restrictions, and bringing manufacturing back to the U.S.Increasing the onshoring of manufacturing in the U.S. can be very beneficial to the U.S. economy and markets.LNG has been a strong U.S. market, and with the President’s removal of the ban on LNG exports and the pending ruling decision of PHMSA’s HM-264B by June 30, 2025 which could result in potentially allowing the shipping of LNG in rail tank cars, LNG could be a growing market for the U.S. economy and for the railroad industry.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.truscomgmt.com 
• Rail Resources – The Surface Transportation Board with Chairman Patrick Fuchs 27.02.2025 1h 11m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Patrick Fuchs, Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board (STB). Together they discuss who the STB is, how and why the STB was created, and they do a deep dive into not only all the various functions of the STB, but also all the different ways in which the STB is a valuable resource to the rail industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode and more on the American Railroading Podcast's official website at www.AmericanRailroading.net , and watch our YouTube Channel at the link below. Welcome aboard!KEY POINTS: The American Railroading Podcast remains in the Top 10% of all podcasts globally!Mr. Fuchs was designated as Chairman of the Surface Transportation Board by President Donald J. Trump, effective January 20, 2025.Among his impressive career accomplishments, Patrick worked on legislation to increase safety by addressing opioid abuse in transportation, with reforms enacted as part of the Support for Patients and Communities Act, enacted during the 115th United States Congress. Founded in 1996, the STB is an independent federal agency that is charged with the economic regulation of surface transportation, primarily freight rail.Their primary functions are regarding rates, services, licensing, complaints and preemption. The STB website at www.STB.gov is a tremendous resource including legal resources, litigation alternatives, an environmental review process, a railroad map depot and general assistance.More valuable resources that the STB offers are the Stakeholder Committees including the Railroad Shipper Transportation Advisor Council, the Rail Energy Transportation Advisory Committee, the National Grain Car Council and the newly created Passenger Rail Advisory Committee.While the STB is made up of Republican and Democrat members, transportation is not political as we all want things to get from A to B, faster, safer and cheaper.The STB’s Rail Customer & Public Assistance Program (RCPA) at (202) 245-0238 offers to help solve problems in a confidential manner, in ways ranging from a simple answer to a phone inquiry, to lengthy informal mediation assistance.If you like what we do, please leave us a 5-Star Review!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.stb.gov
• 2025 – Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Headed with host Don Walsh 31.01.2025 1h 36m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this, our first episode of Season 3, our host Don Walsh is our guest. Producer John joins Don on this episode and together they take us on a journey to review each of the podcast episodes from Season 2 along with a look behind the scenes and share thoughts not heard before on the episodes themselves. They also discuss audience feedback and their favorite moments from Season 2, after which Producer John then interviews Don, and they discuss his thoughts on where the industry is headed in 2025 and some hints on where the podcast is headed in Season 3. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and broaden your understanding of American Railroading! You can find this episode including episode videos and more 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!More sponsors are coming on board in 2025! Become a podcast Sponsor today!Ai is making its way into railroading, including new technology to inspect railcars in transit.One way to determine if you’re far enough away from a hazardous situation, use your thumb.It can cost as much as $60,000.00 USD per year to maintain tank car repair certifications at just one facility.Did you know that guest, Professor John Doggett, once had his own nationally syndicated radio show?The U.S. Army Transportation Museum has over 7,000 artifacts and exhibits.80%+ of interior lining and exterior coatings failures is due to improper surface preparation.When there’s an emergency at a railroad crossing, first thing to do is look for the little blue sign.The comment period for PHMSA’s pending ruling HM-265 has been extended to April 28, 2025.We hope you’re ready for an exciting Season 3 in 2025!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com 
• 2024 Christmas Special with Country Music Artists Payton Riley and Bubba Westly 18.12.2024 1h 19m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this our first ever Christmas Special our host Don Walsh is joined by guests and Texas country music chart-toppers Payton Riley and Bubba Westly. Together they discuss the long history and connection between trains, music and Christmas, as well as sharing favorite Christmas songs and Christmas memories. Payton Riley and Bubba Westly also perform several live and unplugged songs on the episode including each of their own newly released Christmas songs. Tune in to this episode and enjoy some Christmas cheer! 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!There are over 800 known songs about trains.The earliest known train song was copyrighted July 1st, 1828.Trains are not only found throughout music but in movies as well, including Christmas movies like The Polar Express.Country music and Christmas have a long history as well including songs like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, performed by country music artist and movie star Gene Autry.Payton Riley and Bubba Westly play their favorite Christmas songs for us, as well as each of their own newly released Christmas songs.Payton Riley proudly took home the title of “Young Artist of the Year” at the Texas Country Music Awards in both 2023 and 2024, and was recently honored at the iconic Grand Ole Opry with the prestigious 2024 Josie Award for “Young Artist of the Year” in the Young Adult Female category.In 2024 Bubba Westly has achieved the #1 song in Texas radio with “Falling Star”, along with 4 consecutive Top 25 singles and being a finalist for the 2024 Texas Country Music Awards, Emerging Artist of the Year. Bubba is currently a semi-finalist for the Texas Regional Radio Music Awards, 2024 New Male Vocalist of the Year.Both Payton and Bubba have exciting plans for 2025 including upcoming movie roles.Everyone at the American Railroading Podcast wishes you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!Stay tuned for an exciting Season 3 in 2025!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.paytonrileymusic.com https://www.bubbawestly.com https://trrma.net/
• Intro to Federal Agency PHMSA with Eamonn Patrick – Transportation Specialist 27.11.2024 1h 25m

  Welcome to the American Railroading Podcast! In this episode our host Don Walsh is joined by guest Eamonn Patrick, Transportation Specialist, Standards and Rulemaking, for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Together they discuss who PHMSA is, what PHMSA does, and they do a deep dive into several pending and proposed rules including HM-264 regarding the shipping of LNG by rail tank cars and the recent HM-265 docket issued 10/28/24 regarding the proposed removal of sole delegated authority from the AAR Tank Car Committee for the approval of tank car designs and Quality Assurance Programs. 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!PHMSA is divided into two parts, the Office of Hazmat Safety which focuses on hazmat shipments made by rail, highway, air and vessel; and the Office of Pipeline Safety.There are 1.2 million hazmat shipments by all modes of transportation daily.Hazmat shipments in the U.S. arrive at destination safely 99.99995% of the time.PHMSA’s focus is to create regulations that address any safety issues that are present in each mode of hazmat transportation in the U.S.PHMSA is also a resource including offering grant programs for first responders.As a part of the Department of Transportation, PHMSA sometimes receives mandates for rule makings directly from Congress.The proposed changes to the current rail tank car design and QAP processes in HM-265 is meant to mirror the current regulations regarding Highway tanks.Any questions you may have regarding the safe transportation of hazardous materials can be addressed by calling the DOT Hazmat Info Center at (800) 467-4922.Stay tuned for our next episode!LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.americanrailroading.nethttps://www.therevolutionrailgroup.com  https://www.youtube.com/@americanrailroadingpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dwalshX https://www.aldonco.comhttps://www.enviroserve.com https://www.PHMSA.DOT.govhttps://www.FederalRegister.gov