DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with legendary Volkswagen builder Jeff Spearn to dive deep into a journey that defines passion, grit, and craftsmanship.

Jeff shares how it all started with a burned-out $45 Super Beetle—and how that humble beginning led to a career filled with award-winning builds, magazine features, and a Top 10 finish at SEMA Battle of the Builders. From his iconic Diamond Green ’57 ragtop to the show-stopping “Dark Horse” ’56 Beetle in custom Merlot Red, Jeff breaks down the mindset, discipline, and attention to detail that separate good builds from unforgettable ones.

We also get...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Bren Hartman — a true backbone of the modern air-cooled Volkswagen scene. From grassroots beginnings to reviving some of Michigan’s most iconic VW events, Bren’s story is all about passion, persistence, and keeping the culture alive.

Bren shares how a simple introduction to a 1973 Beetle sparked a lifelong obsession that grew into a fleet of classic VWs, including buses, Beetles, a drag car, and a Baja project. But this episode goes way beyond cars — it dives into what it really takes to build and sustain a community...

What happens when you take pain, purpose, and a Volkswagen… and build something bigger than yourself?

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Colton “ ” Williams — founder of Bug Invasion — to unpack a raw and real journey of transformation.

Colton opens up about battling depression, alcoholism, and the weight of a difficult childhood marked by bullying… and how the Volkswagen community became the unexpected turning point that changed everything.

Now 3 years sober, Colton shares how finding belonging in the VW scene gave him purpose — and ultimately inspired him to create Bug Invasion, one of t...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with Kristopher Hayes to dive into one of the most unique Volkswagen builds you’ll hear about. What started as a simple roof rack trade turned into the acquisition of a Karmann Ghia with a story of its own—and Kristopher is taking it to an entirely new level.

Growing up in Grand Junction, Colorado, Kristopher shares his journey from small-town roots to working on oil rigs, and how that path ultimately led him to discover a deep passion for restoring classic Volkswagens. Along the way, he uncovers a ra...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast Leo Van Delft, whose passion for air-cooled VWs spans more than five decades.

Leo’s journey began in 1972 with a 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. What started as a simple love for the iconic cars quickly turned into a career. While still in college, Leo opened his own Volkswagen repair shop, building a reputation for keeping classic air-cooled machines on the road. He later transitioned into education, spending 23 years teaching automotive technology, sharing his knowledge and patience with the next generation of mechanics.

What does it look like to chase a dream when you fully understand that time is finite?

In Episode 55 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Volkswagen enthusiast John Krahulec to talk about his extraordinary Memento Mori journey — a cross-country adventure built around redemption, reflection, and the machines that shaped his life.

What began with a beautifully restored 1967 Volkswagen Beetle has evolved into a full three-vehicle expedition featuring a Ford Bronco Raptor, an open trailer, and a mission that stretches far beyond the road.

John’s journey takes him through Baja, California, and across the le...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with award-winning architect Guillermo Marrero — a creative visionary from Puerto Rico whose love for Volkswagen culture runs just as deep as his passion for design.

From childhood memories shaped by classic VWs to a 15-year search that ended with the perfect 1971 Irish Green Karmann Ghia, Guillermo shares the story behind the hunt, the emotion, and the philosophy that fuels his connection to the brand.

As an architect, Guillermo approaches his Ghia the same way he approaches a building: with intentional simplicity, respect for form, and long-term su...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we interviewed Nick Jones, a Volkswagen enthusiast from Oklahoma who shared his passion for classic air-cooled Volkswagens and his journey into the dub community. Nick discussed his collection, including his daughter's beloved "Bugsly"  a surf-themed Beetle and his bus a 67 single cab known as "the dude."

We explored how Volkswagen culture has shaped Nick's life, from his German-born mother's influence to his experiences trading and flipping cars. Nick emphasized the importance of community and inclusivity in the Volkswagen scene, particularly in allowing children to interact with the cars.

The c...

What does it take to turn a lifelong Volkswagen obsession into a movement that impacts enthusiasts across the country?

In this almost 2 hour deep dive, we sit down with Jack Sims — racer, engine builder, event founder, and passionate voice in the VW community. This is not just a car conversation. It’s a legacy conversation.

Jack takes us back to the beginning — childhood fascination, first VW shows, first broken engines, first wins, and the moments that shaped him into the builder, leader and husband he is today. We talk about mentorship, learning the craft the hard w...

What happens when the love for air-cooled VWs turns into something bigger than cars?

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Kurt Siegrist, the driving force behind Bug-O-Rama in Wichita, Kansas — a VW event with a mission that goes far beyond the show field.

Bug-O-Rama isn’t just another car meet. It’s a 501(c)(3) nonprofit built around giving back. Kurt shares how the event supports kids, veterans, and families in need, and how the VW community becomes a force for real impact when passion meets purpose.

We get into:

Episode 50 – The Builder Who Walked Away | Derek Ryan

What happens when the builder… stops building?

In Episode 50 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Derek Ryan — a talented VW builder whose journey in the air-cooled scene took a turn most people never talk about. This isn’t just a car story. It’s a real life story about passion, pressure, burnout, and what it feels like when the thing you love starts to weigh more than it lifts.

Derek opens up about: • How he got started in the Volkswagen world • The builds that put his name on t...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Darrin "D-Note" Milton — a rapper, entertainer, and hands-on craftsman who’s been building classic Volkswagens since he was a teenager.

Long before the spotlight, D-Note was in the garage learning how to turn wrenches, shape metal, and build cars with intention. That same discipline and creativity followed him to the mic, where his music and performance style reflect the grit, rhythm, and authenticity of the VW lifestyle. In this conversation, we talk about growing up in the scene, earning respect through craftsmanship, and how hip-hop culture and classic...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe Person sits down with Joe Kent—a lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast whose journey runs deep through Sarasota’s VW scene, dealership bays, and decades of hands-on car culture.

Joe Kent shares how his passion began with a 1970 Beetle inspired by Herbie the Love Bug, growing up immersed in hot rods, art, music, and late-night garage sessions with friends. What started as a hobby quickly became a calling, leading him from backyard builds in Florida to becoming a Volkswagen Master Technician in the Pacific Northwest.

This conversation weaves through:

Th...

Looking Back at 2025 | DubLife Diaries Year-End Reflection

As 2025 comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the journey of DubLife Diaries — the growth, the struggles, and the lessons learned along the way.

This video isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Thank you to everyone who watched, commented, shared, and supported this channel throughout the year. Your support means more than you know.

New goals. New energy. Same DubLife. See you in 2026.

For the first episode of the new calendar year, DubLife Diaries welcomes Bill Dwyer—a voice, a perspective, and a story that sets the tone for what this year is all about.

This episode isn’t just a conversation about Volkswagens. It’s about the people behind the builds, the experiences that shape us, and the moments that keep the VW lifestyle alive year after year.

We dive into:

Bill’s personal journey and connection to the VW world

How passion evolves over time—and why it never really fade...

Jake Raby returns for Part 2, and this conversation goes far beyond engines.

We dig into the mindset of true innovators, using the stories as a lens to talk about experimentation, failure, and why progress often looks reckless before it looks brilliant.

Jake draws powerful parallels between early automotive innovation and today’s air-cooled VW world—where bold ideas are criticized first, misunderstood second, and only respected after they work.

We talk craftsmanship, accountability, internet culture, and the price of pushing boundaries in an industry that often rewards noise over knowledge.

This episo...

Levi and Sherry of Trippin' Seed Tie‑Dye and The Social Mosaic share their lifelong love of Volkswagens, music, and art. From early VW memories and surviving Katrina to building a community through tie‑dye and music, this episode follows their journey to receiving Owsley the Beetle — a community‑built, tie‑dyed VW that symbolizes resilience, generosity, and VW culture.

Connect with Sherry & Levi : https://www.facebook.com/trippinseedtiedye 

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Salty Dub — From the beach to the bay, tearing up the scene wit...

Cape Code Bugs - Josh Ellis recounts how childhood work in his uncle's body shop sparked a lifelong passion for restoring classic cars and now specifically Volkswagens — from a complete Beetle convertible restoration to painting, upholstery, and engine builds, this dude does it all. 

Josh also shares stories of camping in his Westy "Forrest," He's also turning a bus into a photo‑booth business, and gives practical advice for anyone wanting to start their own VW projects. If you got "bit by the bug" early on, this ones for you.

Get in touch with Josh - Cap...

DubLife Diaries sits down with Jake Raby — a Marine, self-taught machinist and inventor — to trace his journey from small-town Georgia to inventing the IMS fix that rescued a generation of Porsche engines. Jake explains his hand-built approach to engines, the Type 4 obsession, patented solutions, and why he works without clocks or calendars to guarantee quality.

The episode also covers Jake’s work teaching kids in a technical learning center, the challenges of preserving craftsmanship in a changing industry, and stories that show obsession, discipline and American ingenuity at work.

Stay Tuned for Part 2 in the...

Dan Leadbetter, publisher and editor of VW Trends magazine, joins DubLife Diaries to share his journey from buying a 1964 Beetle to becoming a defining voice in the VW community. He recounts early days typing on a Selectric, working at Small Car Specialties, and the magazine rivalries that shaped the scene.

The episode dives into the magazine revival story—how Leadbetter and a small team crowdfunded VW Trends back into print in 2021—and explores the global passion for air‑cooled Volkswagens, the value of storytelling, and the tight‑knit support among builders and fans.

Listeners will hear beh...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, host Joe Person sits down with Nick Weidelich  a second‑generation technician raised in a family VW shop, to trace his journey from sweeping floors to running garages and working inside dealerships.

They cover shop‑floor stories, dealership chaos, the fallout of Dieselgate, Volkswagen’s shift to EVs, and the disconnect between corporate and enthusiasts.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Chris White & Riverbank Customs → Watch their builds on YouTube: Riverbank Customs.

• Salty Dub — From the beach to the bay, tearing up th...

  In this episode of DubLife Diaries, host Joe Person sits down with Eric L. Goodman — president of the Vintage Volkswagen Club of America and founder of the VW Thing Registry. Eric shares his extraordinary journey from a childhood spinal condition to building the award-winning VW hot rod "Das Rod," leading a national VW community of 185,000+, and running businesses that serve developmentally disabled adults.

  Beyond cars, the conversation focuses on mindset, resilience, family, philanthropy, and the practical challenges of keeping a vintage car culture alive today. Eric discusses his values (caring, dependable, honest), his new book What's Your Mind...

Daniel Olortegui, a Southern California native and 22-year Navy veteran, shares his lifelong love for Volkswagen culture. From driving his dad's squareback at 13 to restoring the 1964 VW bus known as the Caribbean Queen, he’s blended community, creativity, and car culture across coasts.

In this episode he talks about founding Funkengruven', creating Groofest-Volkstoberfest, and keeping the air-cooled scene alive with valve cover races, Hot Wheels experiences, live music, and memorable community moments. A story about passion, service, and building culture.

Connect with Dan-O - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BsjXC2vFL/?mibextid=wwXI...

Join DubLife Diaries for a candid conversation with Lance Kohn — educator, lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast, and creator of one-of-a-kind Volksrods. From his first 1969 Beetle to three custom-built rides, Lance shares stories about teaching test prep, DIY metalwork, and the community that fuels his passion.

Discover how patience, critical thinking, and creative risk-taking shaped his life, career, and garage. Whether you love classic VWs or curious builds, this episode celebrates the makers and mentors who keep the dub culture alive.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Barbie Cecil — aka Volkswagen Barbie — shares her journey from childhood slug-bug memories to building a garage full of customized Volkswagens. She talks about acquiring and restoring Phoebe, Farrah, Fiona, and a kit-built beast named Felix, the challenges of mechanical work and body restoration, and how the VW community shaped her outlook.

Barbie also discusses road trips, club shows, practical upgrades, and offers encouragement for others to learn hands-on skills while embracing the welcoming VW culture.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife...

Brad Long of Long Restoration joins DubLife Diaries to share his journey from late nights in the garage with his dad and son to building award-winning vintage Volkswagens.

Discover how backyard restorations grew into a family-run shop that wins Best in Show at Bug Jam back to back, graces magazine covers, and keeps the VW community alive with passion and craftsmanship. 

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Chris White & Riverbank Customs → Watch their builds on YouTube: Riverbank Customs.

• Salty Dub — From the beach to the...

In this episode we meet Annie Van Orman, a filmmaker-turned-mechanic who restored a 1969 Beetle named Helen Wheels entirely by hand while documenting every step. We cover her creative roots, Star Wars prop work, and how her media skills shaped the way she shares car builds.

Annie discusses the challenges of restoration, the support of the VW community, and her hopes to inspire more people—especially women—to pick up tools and start their own projects.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Chris White & Riverbank Cus...

In this episode we meet Annie Van Orman, a filmmaker-turned-mechanic who restored a 1969 Beetle named Helen Wheels entirely by hand while documenting every step. We cover her creative roots, Star Wars prop work, and how her media skills shaped the way she shares car builds.

Annie discusses the challenges of restoration, the support of the VW community, and her hopes to inspire more people—especially women—to pick up tools and start their own projects.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Chris White & Riverbank Cus...

Self-taught craftsman Jason Davis shares his journey from junkyard school to running Davis Customs, specializing in rust repair and body restoration for classic Volkswagens and Porsches.

This episode covers his hands-on techniques, memorable builds like the double-cab walkthrough bus and a rare Datsun 510 from Japan, the VW community spirit, and his advice for the next generation of builders.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • Use code dublife10 for 10% off.

• Chris White & Riverbank Customs → Watch their builds on YouTube: Riverbank Customs.

• Salty Dub — From the beach to the bay...

Eric Arnold Photography, owner of a legendary 1977 Westfalia and editor of Vintage Voice, joins DubLife Diaries to share stories from decades in the VW scene. A professional VW photographer with over 300 published features and 75 covers, Eric discusses buses, shows, road trips, award-winning restorations, and the tight-knit community that defines Volkswagen culture.

He also explains his photo process, offers advice for aspiring photographers, and reflects on how VW life shaped him—emphasizing community, neutrality, and passion for the cars and people that keep the culture alive.

Sponsors and Shout Outs : 

• VolksMania Magazine → www.volksmania.com • U...

Join host Joe Person and guest Liam Sianko-Gundlach of Klunk Garage as they explore the creators journey from a Toyota upbringing to becoming a leading voice in Volkswagen storytelling. Learn how Liam builds mini-documentaries, the origins of iconic VW models, and what keeps the VW community thriving across generations.

They discuss standout projects (a Golf, Cabriolet, Beetle, and Fox), platform strategy for TikTok/YouTube/Instagram, surprising VW history facts, and the challenges of sourcing parts for classic builds. Tune in for tips on starting VW content, dream builds, and whats next for Klunk Garage.

Guinevere Freccia of Freccia Brothers Garage opens up about her family’s 103-year Volkswagen legacy—from the early Greenwich dealerships to restoring Beetles, buses, and squarebacks while fostering a tight-knit VW community that feels more like family than customers.

This episode dives into the shop’s current eviction fight, the nonprofit and community efforts underway to save the original location, and how the VW world can come together to help keep this historic garage alive. Now more than ever, the VW family is needed to protect a piece of our shared heritage.

💛 To support the Freccia f...

On this episode of DubLife Diaries, Gary Miller the VW Jawbreaker on YouTube, shares how a childhood memory of sandrail ignited his love for Volkswagens, how he started filming with his son's encouragement, and how he builds unique, perfectly imperfect projects while fostering community.

Gary discusses his DIY approach, event favorites like No-Dough Weekend, balancing family and content, and giving back—donating YouTube and merch proceeds to his local Humane Society. What a cool guy right ?  He also offers advice for newcomers: plug into clubs, learn from others, and drive your VW.

This podcast is spo...

Donnie Prater, raised literally inside Volkswagen culture, shares his lifetime of VW memories — from being put into a tie‑dye onesie at the hospital to learning brake jobs and engine swaps as a kid. He walks through his earliest builds, the heartbreak of blown engines, and the lessons that shaped his mechanical instincts.

The episode also covers Donnie’s favorite cars and shows, his rare original 1983 Jetta, dream builds, and advice for new enthusiasts. A nostalgic, straightforward conversation about family legacy, patience, and why the VW scene connects people across generations.

This Podcast Sponsor...

In this episode of DubLife Diaries Joe interviews Jaye Foster, a self‑taught VW bus builder and owner of an air‑cooled shop in Chattanooga The Bus Stop, about how a lockdown garage project turned into full‑time nomad life. Jay recounts trading for buses, rebuilding a 1977 “Nugget,” long road trips, close calls, and the vibrant nomadic and VW communities that shaped his journey.

The episode covers wrenching tips, running cars on the road, the realities of van life, and Jaye’s advice to keep these classics driven and cared for — summed up in one simple motto: never give up...

Welcome back to DubLife Diaries! In this episode, we sit down with Volkswagen enthusiast Jaga Rai as he shares the tale of his beloved 1975 Canadian standard Beetle, affectionately known as "The Outlaw." Since purchasing the Beetle in 1997, Jaga has defied trends, poured his heart into its unique build, and developed lifelong friendships along the way.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of Jaga's one-of-a-kind late model VW, delve into the vibrant Volkswagen community, and reflect on how staying true to one's passion can create lasting connections. Alongside stories of friendship and community, Jaga also opens up...

Welcome to DubLife Diaries, where we dive into the world of Volkswagen enthusiasts and their captivating stories. In this episode, we chat with David Saucier, a well-known figure in the Bay Area (Houston TX)  VW scene, whose connection with Volkswagens dates back to his childhood. From his 67 Deluxe Sunroof Beetle to the Silver Surfer Squareback, David's passion for classic air-cooled VWs is undisputed.

Discover the rich history of the Bay Area Volkswagen Club and their impact on the community, including annual shows and charitable events. Listen as David shares anecdotes about his vehicles, memorable road trips, and t...

Welcome to DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the world of Volkswagens and music with a fascinating guest, Marcel Smit. Growing up in the vibrant environment of a VW Caravel, Marcel shares how his childhood, surrounded by music and classic cars, shaped his passion-filled journey.

As the marketing manager of AfriBeetle, Marcel talks about his exciting connection with Volkswagen enthusiasts globally, the unique stories behind each restoration project, and his lifelong love for music. With a background in copywriting, Marcel combines his creativity and enthusiasm to shape the digital presence and...

Join us at DubLife Diaries for an exhilarating episode where we explore the extraordinary journey of Todd Prater. A man of many talents, Todd has lived the quintessential VW life—transforming his VW bus into a mobile DJ booth and building a YouTube channel around vintage car restoration. In a lively conversation, Todd shares his lifelong obsession with Volkswagens, stemming from a childhood fascination with air-cooled engines and road trip stories teeming with mechanical mysteries.

Todd, a former news reporter, highlights the profound camaraderie within the VW community and the invaluable lessons learned on the road, often di...

Welcome to DubLife Diaries, where today's episode takes you beyond custom cars into a heartfelt journey of resilience and innovation. We're diving into the story of Justin and Claudia Still, who transformed a humble backyard shop into the renowned NVT Rod and Custom. Their story is about grit, family bonds, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

Explore how the Stills navigated health challenges, mental breakdowns, and the ups and downs of starting a business. Discover how Claudia transitioned from a lab tech to a queen of custom car building and how Justin, from driver to builder, expanded...