A reflection on the pregnancy, birth, and passing of our 7th child. A journey that carried us from excitement and hope to heartbreak and grief, and the way it shaped us moving forward.

I share the story of my first time being called up to the engineer’s seat in 2015 — from tackling new territory in Bloomington and Houston, to missing a call because of bad phone signal, to earning the respect of an old head conductor, and even running through a switch. It’s a raw look at the challenges, mistakes, and lessons learned during my first months as an engineer.

This week on Rabbit on the Rails, I reflect on the early days of my railroad career and the adventures of juggling yard jobs, extra boards, and shifting schedules. But life on the tracks wasn’t the only thing changing—our family was growing fast. From late-night call-ups to welcoming new arrivals at home, I share the story behind my nickname, “Rabbit,” and the lessons learned balancing work, family, and everything in between.

Tune in for real talk, railroad stories, and a look at how life at home keeps you moving just as much as life on the rails.

Thanking you all for the journey in this podcast! Sharing that life happens but we keep moving forward!

Now officially a certified engineer, I'm back in the conductor's seat. In this episode, I share what it was like returning to the ground after training, dealing with unexpected pressure to run, and getting back into the rhythm of the Avondale-to-Livonia turn. I also talk about my first experience working jobs closer to home... and the intense day I was involved in my very first on-duty accident. This one's about real railroad life-how we handle tough moments, look out for each other, and why crews don't block crossings just for the fun of it.

After months of classroom work, simulators, and hands-on OJT, the day finally came: my qualifying run. In this episode, I take you through the nerves, the pressure, and one key moment that could’ve gone either way. From stopping with air to spotting autoracks and even failing an exam! This one’s got it all. Let’s get qualified.

Continuing my engineer class. finally getting to the OJT's. Going through the different areas of on the job training: yards, locals, and road trips.

A follow-up to the two weeks in engineer class. discussing simulators and tests. A little free time allowed us to explore some of Salt Lake while we were there. a thanks for tuning in!

This week on Rabbit on the Rails, I’m sharing what it was like stepping into engineer class, the training that turns conductors into locomotive operators. I break down why I chose to go, how the class is structured, and what it felt like walking into a simulator for the first time. From Salt Lake City sunrises to high-stakes testing pressure, this episode dives into the journey of leveling up on the railroad.

A new addition to our family: the trials of being there for the birth of our 5th child.