I've read Model Railroader since about age 8. I've always enjoyed it. A lot of it could seen as intimidating, but I saw it as inspiration. Kind of like reading Sports Illustrated magazine I guess. You know you're probably not going to a .300 batting average in the majors, but it's still fun to see somebody who does and read the story.
They typically have some "Wow, isn't this amazing!" type stuff, and then lots of useful information. Tips and techniques, product reviews, how to.
Granted, you look at some of it and think "Well, if I win the lottery and buy an airplane hanger..." But there's lots of other stuff that's far more down to earth. For example, this month's issue has an article on how to build a right of way fence. Can't get much more basic than that! You don't have to be a skill scratchbuilder to finish that project.
Even when you see the top end layouts, often you can get ideas and inspiration from them. Ok, so I don't have a 20 x 70 layout room, I still like how they did that engine servicing area, maybe I'll incorporate that idea into mine?