MGPC EP 130 IPMS USA Best Jr. Eli Van Helvoirt, and an interview with Austin Frields

Welcome to Episode 130 of The Modelgeeks Podcast!  In this episode, we’ll kick things off with what’s happening in our Model World, to include our guest host, Eli Van Helvoirt who will be joining us behind the mic for this recording. Eli recently attended the 2026 IPMS USA Nationals in Fort Wayne Indiana and took home the award for Best Junior! Eli will discuss his experiences at this, his third Nationals, what he likes to build, and what inspires him. The Juniors categories were well attended this year and the work on their tables could run head-to-head on the adult side of the room!  Also joining us for an interview session is Mr. Austin Frields. Austin runs a YouTube channel, “Sprues With Spoons”, and has some ambitious ideas on bringing more of the hobby into all media. Check out his channel with a special report from Fort Wayne and the Nats. From the Modelgeeks Podcast web page we take a look at the Listener Gallery and the fine work that has caught our eye. Mentioned in the Episode: Sprues With Spoons  Share your work with us and the rest of the scale modeling community through our web page, or through our Facebook community page. We love seeing other people’s work. Who knows who you may inspire through your latest masterpiece!Modelgeeks web page: Modelgeeks Podcast Facebook community:  The ModelGeeks Model Shack …and of course you can email us at:  [email protected] We also want to thank each of our sponsors for their support. We are very lucky to have their support. When you have the time, pay a visit to their web sites, and have a look at their fine products. Sponsors:Furball Aero-DesignTamiya USADetail & ScaleLionHeart HobbyBases By BillHypersonic ModelsMatters Of ScaleKotare ModelsSquadronCAVU PublicationsG-Factor Sprue Brothers Models If you're a wicked ModelGeek go check out the following links!IPMS USA Events PageAMPSButch O'Hare Modeling ClubThe Interesting Modeling Company   We are very fortunate to be able to join the scale modeling podcast community and are in the company of several other really GREAT podcasts. Hopefully, someday we’ll earn our wings and be able to keep up with those guys!  Please check them all out at Scale Model Podcasts.  Blogs, Channels, Etc:The Kit BoxSprue Pie with FretsModel Airplane MakerSprues With Spoons   Support the showSupport the showModel Geeks Podcast