DubLife Diaries – Where Volkswagen Stories and Culture Come AliveWelcome to DubLife Diaries – the ultimate VW lifestyle podcast for enthusiasts and anyone who loves a great story on the open road! We dive deep into the heart of VW culture—celebrating the passion, creativity, and community that make these iconic cars more than just machines.From vintage Beetles and Westfalias to Karmann Ghias and Things, every episode highlights the people behind the wheel—the dreamers, builders, photographers, and families whose lives are forever shaped by Volkswagens.🎙️ What You’ll Hear:<ul><li>Inspiring interviews with VW lovers, business owners, and hobbyists</li><li>Stories of road trips, restorations, and once-in-a-lifetime finds</li><li>Behind-the-scenes looks at shows, culture, and the VW lifestyle</li><li>The role these timeless cars play in creating connection and adventure</li></ul>Whether you’ve been a lifelong “dubber,” are just discovering the VW world, or simply love hearing unique human stories, DubLife Diaries is your front-row seat to the scene.📅 New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe today and join us as we roll through the stories that keep the Volkswagen community thriving.🚗 Host: Joe Person – Lifelong VW enthusiast, storyteller, and community connector.

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Some people collect cars. Others build them, modify them, break them, rebuild them, and occasionally set them on fire along the way. Jordan Reece has done a little bit of everything!In Episode 87 of DubLife Diaries, we&#39;re sitting down with Jordan Reece, automotive enthusiast, hot rod builder, author, educator, minister, and the man behind the massive Ruined VWs – Purists Not Allowed community, now home to more than 347,000 members.Jordan has owned more than 240 vehicles throughout his life, but his passion for Volkswagens runs deep. We talk about how that passion started, why he believes building a car should be about what makes YOU happy, and how a Facebook group built around customized VWs became one of the largest Volkswagen communities on the internet.We also get into the technical side of things, including his book, IDF Carburetors: The DIY Guide, the art of keeping old-school mechanical knowledge alive, and why today&#39;s increasingly computerized vehicles are making it harder for people to work on their own cars.Beyond the garage, Jordan shares the story of Hi-Revz Media, working alongside his father, his experience as a technical educator, and a more personal conversation about faith, mental health, and his journey into ministry.This episode covers a lot of ground, from air-cooled Volkswagens and carburetors to motorcycles, family, faith, and the importance of creating a community where people can enjoy what they love without being judged for it.Because at the end of the day, it&#39;s your car. Build it your way. And if somebody calls it ruined, you might just be doing something right!Tune in, turn it up, and enjoy Episode 87 of DubLife Diaries!

Ruined VWs, 240+Cars & Building a Community Without the Judgement Jordan Reece Ep87

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Born from a desire to do things their own way, Southsiders VW has grown from four Volkswagen enthusiasts in 2014 into a Florida community of more than 7,400 members. Twelve years later, the group is still bringing people together through a shared love of Volkswagens, Thursday night meetups, road-trip adventures, and a commitment to giving back.On this episode 86 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Jay Gould, Karl Kihlander, Steven Grant, Mike Plante, John Nida, and the crew behind Southsiders VW to hear the stories that built their community and the friendships that have kept it going.From classic buses and air-cooled Volkswagens to international connections and memorable road-trip mishaps, the conversation covers plenty of VW history. We get to know the stories behind their rides, including Jay&#39;s 1970 panel bus, Icebox; Karl&#39;s 1969 bus, High Ball Betty; John&#39;s well-traveled bus, Helga; and Mike&#39;s bus, DD.But Southsiders VW is about more than the cars. Their weekly Thursday night gatherings bring enthusiasts together rain or shine, while their approach to keeping the group welcoming and drama-free has helped friendships thrive for more than a decade.The crew also shares the stories behind two of their biggest charitable traditions:🧸 Toys for Tots: An annual charity run that has collected toys, bikes, and scooters for children in need.🐾 Winter Blitz: A Volkswagen gathering supporting a local animal shelter through fundraising and donations.We talk about the early days, the unwritten rules that keep a large community connected, the people who make the scene special, and the dream Volkswagens they&#39;d bring home if money were no object.In this episode:<ul><li>The origins and growth of Southsiders VW since October 2014</li><li>The people and friendships behind a 7,400-plus-member community</li><li>Weekly Volkswagen meetups on Florida&#39;s Space Coast</li><li>The stories behind the crew&#39;s buses and other VW builds</li><li>Toys for Tots and the Winter Blitz charity event</li><li>Road-trip adventures, restorations, breakdowns, and VW memories</li><li>Why the people behind the cars are what make this lifestyle special</li></ul> From four friends with an idea to a thriving Volkswagen community, Southsiders VW is proof that the best part of the VW lifestyle has always been the people you meet along the way.🎙️ Listen, subscribe, and join the DubLife Diaries community.Have a Volkswagen story of your own? Visit the DubLife Diaries website to register as a guest and share your VW backstory.#DubLifeDiaries #SouthsidersVW #Volkswagen #VWBus #VWCommunity #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenBus #VWLife #FloridaVW #ToysForTots

Southsiders VW 12 Years of VW Community & Giving Back Ep 86

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What happens when a childhood obsession turns into a lifelong passion?On this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with James Vedder, whose love for Volkswagen Beetles started at just four years old. From collecting toy Bugs and hunting for Volkswagens on his bike around Colorado Springs to buying a heavily modified 1968 Beetle at just 15, James has spent much of his life chasing the cars that captured his imagination as a kid.That yellow ’68 is more than just a car. It has survived major modifications, engine swaps, a devastating wreck, and years of rebuilding. Eighteen years later, James still owns it.We talk about his early days in the VW scene, the influence of the original Herbie movie, the people who helped him learn to work on air-cooled engines, and why the Volkswagen community feels more like family than a car club.James also shares stories about his ’57 Euro Oval, his dream builds, the VW he would keep forever, and the advice he would give his younger self.Whether you love Beetles, enjoy a good restoration story, or simply understand what it means to hold onto something that has been part of your life for decades, this episode is for you.In this episode:·       How a four-year-old fell in love with Volkswagen Beetles·       Beetle hunting around Colorado Springs·       Buying a heavily modified ’68 Bug at 15·       Learning air-cooled VW mechanics from fellow enthusiasts·       The heartbreak of wrecking a beloved Beetle·       Rebuilding, backdating, and keeping a car for the long haul·       The ’57 Euro Oval and future VW dreams·       Why the VW community is truly familySubscribe to DubLife Diaries for more Volkswagen stories, builds, road trips, and conversations with the people who make the VW community special.Have a VW story of your own? We want to hear it!#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #AircooledVW #VWBeetle #VolkswagenBeetle

He Bought His Dream VW at 15-18 Years Later, He Still Owns It!  James Vedder Ep85

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What do tattoos, Volkswagens, Muhammad Ali, and a historic mink farm have in common? More than you might think.In this episode 84 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Scottie Morgan, tattoo artist and owner of Homebase Tattoo, for a conversation that goes far beyond cars and ink.Scottie’s tattoo shop sits on the historic former Pollack’s Mink Farm in Deer Lake, Pennsylvania, a property with an incredible connection to boxing legend Muhammad Ali, who trained there during his rise in the sport. Today, the same property has been transformed into a tattoo studio—bringing together history, discipline, creativity, and art in a place with a story all its own.Scottie takes us through his journey into tattooing, his approach to creating art for clients, the evolution of tattoo culture, and the business of building a successful tattoo shop in the age of Instagram, TikTok, and viral content.Of course, we also dive deep into Volkswagen culture—from Scottie’s first VW to his modified Tiguan, the VW community, car shows, water-cooled Volkswagens, and his plans for future builds. We talk about how car culture has evolved, why the VW community is different, and how creativity connects the worlds of tattooing and automotive customization.We also uncover some fascinating stories from the property’s past, including the surviving remnants of the mink farm and the history surrounding Muhammad Ali’s time there.This is a conversation about cars, tattoos, history, creativity, business, social media, family, and simply showing up and doing the work.Whether you&#39;re into Volkswagens, tattoo culture, car builds, automotive lifestyle, or just a great story, there&#39;s something here for you.FOLLOW SCOTTIEInstagram: @scottie__morganCar: @static_tiggywww.HomeBaseTattoo.comABOUT DUBLIFE DIARIESDubLife Diaries is a Volkswagen lifestyle podcast exploring the people, cars, businesses, builds, events, and stories that make the VW community unique.Subscribe, follow, and join the conversation.#Volkswagen #VW #DubLife #DubLifeDiaries #VolkswagenPodcast #VWTuning #CarCulture #TattooArtist #TattooCulture #HomebaseTattoo #MuhammadAli #DeerLake #CarBuilds #VWCommunity #AutomotiveLifestyle

From Muhammad Ali’s Training Grounds to Tattoos & Volkswagens Scottie Morgan Ep 84

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In Episode 83 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Robert &#34;VW Kidd&#34; Velis for a deep dive into the history, people, and culture behind the LA Cal Style Volkswagen scene.Growing up in East Los Angeles in the 1970s, Robert was surrounded by some of the most influential lowrider clubs and custom car builders in Southern California. From the Dukes and Brown Breed to the Majestics and Imperials, car culture was part of everyday life. Those early influences would eventually collide with his love of Volkswagen and help shape a style that would spread far beyond Los Angeles.Robert takes us back to the early days of the Bugs Buddies and the Volkswagen builds that helped establish what would eventually become known as Cal Style. We talk about slammed Beetles and Karmann Ghias, polished alloy wheels, European-spec parts, extreme stances, performance engines, and the influence that traditional lowrider culture had on these early Volkswagen builds.But this episode goes much deeper than the cars.Robert shares stories about visiting Vintage Volkswagen Parts Inc., learning from people like Rene Redlos of the Dukes, discovering the Volkswagen scene as a teenager, and watching the culture evolve from something happening in neighborhoods around LA into a worldwide movement.We also get into the history behind the name &#34;Cal Style,&#34; how the term became widely used around 1985, the later &#34;Resto Cal&#34; label, and why Robert believes much of the original history and the people behind it have been misunderstood or forgotten.Robert&#39;s story also takes us through his decades in the automotive industry, his career with Mercedes-Benz, his involvement with the Vintage Volkswagen Club of America, his work preserving Volkswagen history, and his commitment to giving back to the car community.This conversation was so packed with history that we actually had to hit pause when technical issues cut our recording short. Then 2 weeks later we picked back up and continued the conversation. Every VW has a story. These are the people behind them.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #CalStyle #VWHistory #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenCulture #LowriderCulture #ClassicVW #CalLook #VWScene

Robert (VW Kidd) Velis & The Untold History of LA Cal Style Ep83

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What happens when a lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast believes the cars are great, but the people behind them are what truly matter?In Episode 82 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Shawn Stapp, a Volkswagen enthusiast with 34 years in the air-cooled VW community, an incredible collection of classic Volkswagens, and a passion for giving back that goes far beyond the garage.Shawn shares his journey from a troubled youth and his first 1971 Volkswagen Beetle to building a life centered around family, hard work, classic cars, and helping others. Today, he balances running a commercial plumbing business, managing a ranch outside Denver, and caring for an impressive collection of vintage Volkswagens.But perhaps the most powerful part of Shawn’s story is what he’s doing to pass the hobby on to the next generation. From gifting Volkswagen Beetles to two teenage boys to encouraging young people to get their hands dirty and experience the VW lifestyle firsthand, Shawn is helping ensure the air-cooled community has a future.We also dive into the growth of 303 Dubs, the success of Denver Dubfest at Empower Field, his 32-year marriage to Christina, and the story behind his latest Volkswagen project: a 1963 23-window bus restoration.In this conversation, we explore what makes the Volkswagen community so special, why kindness and generosity matter, and how one person can make a lasting impact simply by showing up for others.In this episode, we talk about:<ul><li>Shawn’s 34-year journey in the Volkswagen community</li><li>His first VW, a 1971 Beetle, and the cars that followed</li><li>Giving away Beetles to inspire the next generation of VW enthusiasts</li><li>The importance of mentorship, community, and passing down the hobby</li><li>The growth and culture of 303 Dubs</li><li>Denver Dubfest and bringing the VW community together</li><li>His collection of classic buses and Beetles</li><li>Life as a plumber, rancher, husband, and Volkswagen enthusiast</li><li>Restoring and customizing a 1963 23-window bus</li><li>Why helping people is more important than the cars themselves</li></ul> Shawn’s story is a reminder that Volkswagens are more than metal, paint, and engines. They’re a reason to connect, a way to build friendships, and an opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.Because at the end of the day, every VW has a story. These are the people behind them.🎙️ Welcome to DubLife Diaries — Episode 82 featuring Shawn Stapp.If you love air-cooled Volkswagens, classic VW buses, Beetles, and the people who make this community what it is, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.Enjoy the episode? Follow DubLife Diaries, leave us a review, and share this episode with someone who lives and breathes the VW lifestyle.#DubLifeDiaries #ShawnStapp #303Dubs #AirCooledVolkswagen #Volkswagen #VWBus #VWBeetle #DenverDubfest #VWCommunity #VolkswagenEnthusiast #ClassicVolkswagen #AirCooledVW

Shawn Stapp 34 Years of VWs, Generosity & Keeping the Community Alive Ep82

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On Episode 81 of the DubLife Diaries Podcast, we sit down with Volkswagen collector, entrepreneur, and lifelong VW enthusiast Eliot Vancil.Eliot has spent years building an incredible collection of rare and historically significant Volkswagens, but this conversation goes far beyond the cars. We dive into the adventures, friendships, and unbelievable stories behind finding some of the most unique VWs in the hobby.From traveling to the Czech Republic to purchase a rare Fridolin Volkswagen, to chasing down a Hebmüller, acquiring historic Split Windows, and taking unforgettable road trips to bring home another piece of Volkswagen history, Eliot shares stories that every air-cooled VW enthusiast will appreciate.We also talk about the difference between a Volkswagen that is simply rare and one that is truly important. Eliot shares his passion for originality, preservation, documentation, and protecting the stories behind these historic cars for future generations.But like so many conversations on DubLife Diaries, this episode is ultimately about more than Volkswagens.It&#39;s about the people you meet, the friendships you build, the memories you create with your family, and the community that keeps the Volkswagen hobby alive.Whether you&#39;re into classic Volkswagens, vintage VW collecting, air-cooled cars, Split Windows, Hebmüllers, Fridlins, or simply love hearing incredible stories from passionate people in the VW community, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.Every Volkswagen has a story. Eliot Vancil has spent a lifetime collecting them.🎙️ DubLife Diaries Podcast — Episode 81🚗 Guest: Eliot VancilFollow DubLife Diaries for more conversations with the people, builders, collectors, and personalities who make up the incredible Volkswagen community.

Eliot Vancil | Rare Volkswagens, Historic Cars & the Stories Behind the Collection Ep81

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In Episode 80 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Spud Hughes for a deeply personal conversation about Volkswagens, family, loss, rebuilding, and the lifelong memories that make these cars so much more than metal and machines.Spud’s connection to the Volkswagen world started as a kid, riding off-road with his father and learning the skills that would eventually shape his career and his life. His father—known as “Uno Mas”—was always working on one moreproject, and that name would eventually become the perfect tribute for Spud’s beloved 1965 Beetle, Uno Mas.From Baja builds and lowered Volkswagens to bodywork, paint, custom interiors, and years spent chasing the perfect build, Spud shares the stories behind the cars—and the people behind them.We talk about losing his father, finding a 1965 Baja at exactly the right moment, and discovering that the money to buy it came unexpectedly from his father&#39;s estate. That car, The Beach Bum, became a rolling tribute to his dad and a way to keep his memory alive.We also get into the reality of rebuilding after tragedy. After an accident left Uno Mas badly damaged, Spud refused to let the car go. He rebuilt it piece by piece and got it back on the road in time for a show, proving once again that sometimes rebuilding a Volkswagen is about much more than fixing a car.Along the way, we talk about the unmistakable smell of an old Volkswagen, why these cars seem to find their owners, the personalities we give our Volkswagens, becoming a father himself, and what it means to pass the passion on to the next generation.And, of course, we finish with a little DubLife Diaries rapid fire—favorite VW year, color, engine, and more.This is a story about Volkswagens, but ultimately it&#39;s about family, legacy, memories, and the people who keep us moving forward.Episode 80 features:• Spud Hughes• Uno Mas — 1965 Volkswagen Beetle• The Beach Bum — 1965 Volkswagen Baja• Volkswagen Baja builds &amp; restoration• Air-cooled VW culture• Custom VW interiors, paint &amp; bodywork• Rebuilding after an accident• The legacy of a father• Fatherhood and passing the VW passion forward• Colorado &amp; Southern California VW culture• The emotional connection between people and their carsIf you&#39;ve ever owned a Volkswagen that meant more to you than it probably should have… this episode is for you.🎙️ DubLife Diaries — the VW lifestyle podcast celebrating the cars, the culture, and the stories behind the people who live it.Subscribe, follow, and leave us a 5-star review—and send us the story of the VW person you think should be on DubLife Diaries next.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VW #AirCooledVW #VWBeetle #VolkswagenBeetle #VWBus #BajaBug #VWLife #AirCooled #VWCommunity #VolkswagenCulture #VWBuild #VWRestoration #ClassicVW #1965Beetle #VWStories

Uno Mas, Family Legacy & the Cars That Find Us - Spud Hughes Ep80

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In this episode 79 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Mark Laue, one of the founders of Dubsplash, to talk about Volkswagens, skateboarding, business, community, and what it really takes to build a successful car show.Mark takes us back to his early days growing up in Southern California, discovering Volkswagens as a teenager, and balancing his love of cars with skateboarding and hockey. His passion for skateboarding eventually led him into the skate park business, where he helped build and operate parks across California and Texas.From there, Mark found his way into the Volkswagen event world and helped grow Dubsplash into one of the premier Volkswagen gatherings in the country, now drawing hundreds of cars, thousands of attendees, and dozens of vendors.We talk about how Dubsplash evolved, the challenges of putting on large-scale VW events, the impact of social media and YouTube on the Volkswagen hobby, and why keeping the community welcoming and inclusive matters.Mark also shares his thoughts on the future of VW culture, supporting younger enthusiasts, leadership, sponsorships, and the importance of simply stepping back and appreciating what you&#39;ve built.Whether you&#39;re into air-cooled Volkswagens, VW shows, skateboarding, event promotion, or the community behind the cars, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.Follow Dubsplash: dubsplash.comEpisode Topics:Volkswagen • Dubsplash • VW Shows • Air-Cooled VW • Classic Volkswagen • Skateboarding • Skate Parks • Car Culture • VW Community • Event Promotion • Volkswagen Events • VW Lifestyle

From Skate Parks to Dubsplash: Mark Laue’s Journey Through VW Culture Ep79

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What happens when a song about a Volkswagen Beetle wins an international songwriting competition—and eventually leads you to the exact car you wrote about?In Episode 78 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with 18-year-old Volkswagen enthusiast Aiden Fleischman to hear the incredible story behind his 1972 Super Beetle, Maggie.Aiden takes us from falling in love with a Beetle he couldn&#39;t afford, to writing a song about it, winning an international competition, and eventually finding and purchasing that same 1972 Super Beetle for $4,000. From oil leaks and broken fuel pumps to pulling the engine multiple times, Aiden didn&#39;t just buy a classic car—he taught himself how to build, repair, and understand it.We talk about his journey through the Volkswagen community, his experience at a 48-hour tech session with Glenn, the people who helped him along the way, and the lessons he&#39;s learned about humility, perseverance, and following your dreams.Aiden also shares his plans for the future as he heads to college on a full scholarship to study aviation maintenance and engineering—and how his passion for air-cooled VW engines connects surprisingly well with aircraft engines.We&#39;ll talk Beetles, restoration, car shows, future builds, the VW community, and why Aiden plans to keep Maggie for the long haul.This is a story about more than an old Volkswagen. It&#39;s about following a dream, learning by doing, and finding your people along the way. 🎙️ DubLife Diaries Episode 78 — Aiden Fleischman Aidens Song Contest Winning Tune : https://youtube.com/shorts/tcvR95jmODU?si=8579HIFlqF6pQpTIDon&#39;t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with another VW enthusiast!Sponsors &amp; Friends of the Show:VolksMania Magazine www.volksmania.comTrippin&#39; Seed Tie-Dye check them out on FacebookSalty Dub Events www.SaltyDub.comVara Upholstery www.VaraUpholstery.com #DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VW #VWBeetle #SuperBeetle #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenBeetle #ClassicCars #VWLife #VWCommunity #CarRestoration #DubLife

The Beetle, the Song & the Journey Aiden Fleischman Ep78

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What happens when you trade the 9-to-5 grind for life on the road in a 1962 Volkswagen panel bus?In Episode 77 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Vanessa Cassada, a longtime Volkswagen enthusiast, pinstriper, hand painter, and full-time traveler who has spent more than a year exploring the country in her vintage VW bus with her husband, Adam.Vanessa takes us back to where her Volkswagen journey began at just 16 years old with her first air-cooled Beetle, and how that early love for Volkswagens eventually led her to a completely different way of life.We talk about what it&#39;s really like to travel in a vintage VW bus, from keeping a 1962 panel bus running across thousands of miles to navigating mountain roads, camping, attending VW events, and discovering some of the most beautiful places in the country.Vanessa shares stories from driving the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, exploring Oregon and Idaho, attending Volkswagen campouts, and experiencing firsthand the incredible generosity of the VW community. From fellow enthusiasts offering a place to work on her bus to someone lending her a Volkswagen for a campout, Vanessa&#39;s stories are a reminder that the Volkswagen community is about so much more than cars.We also dive into Vanessa&#39;s journey as a pinstriper and hand painter, her inspiration from legendary artists like Ed Roth, and how a hobby eventually opened doors.And of course, we talk about the philosophy behind it all: simplicity, freedom, adventure, and just doing it.Vanessa and Adam have embraced a minimalist lifestyle, downsized their possessions, and built a life centered around experiences rather than things. Her message is simple: you don&#39;t have to wait for the perfect time to start living the life you&#39;ve dreamed about.If you&#39;ve ever dreamed about VW bus camping, traveling the country in an air-cooled Volkswagen, living a minimalist lifestyle, or simply taking the leap into your next adventure, this episode is for you.🚐 One bus. Two people. An open road. And a whole lot of Volkswagen culture.In This Episode:<ul><li>Vanessa&#39;s first Volkswagen at 16</li><li>Life in a 1962 VW panel bus</li><li>Traveling full-time with her husband</li><li>VW bus camping and minimalist living</li><li>Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park</li><li>Volkswagen campouts and the VW community</li><li>The people who helped keep her bus on the road</li><li>Pinstriping, hand painting, and Ed Roth inspiration</li><li>Building and maintaining a vintage VW for long-distance travel</li><li>Favorite destinations and road-trip discoveries</li><li>Why simplicity can lead to a richer life</li><li>Vanessa&#39;s advice for anyone dreaming about their own adventure</li><li>Keeping Volkswagen culture alive for the next generation</li></ul> Follow DubLife Diaries for more stories from the people, cars, adventures, and communities that make the Volkswagen lifestyle so special.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VWBus #VWBusLife #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenBus #VWCamping #VanLife #VWCommunity #VintageVW #VWLife #VolkswagenCulture

Living the VW Life on the Road in a 1962 Panel Bus Vanessa Cassada Ep77

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What happens when a $300 Volkswagen Beetle at 18 years old turns into a lifelong obsession?Meet Jason Wharton — better known as JBug — a Volkswagen enthusiast, collector, artist, BMX racer, land surveyor, club founder, husband-to-be, and one of the longtime personalities helping shape the VW community.In Episode 76 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with JBug to hear the story behind nearly three decades of Volkswagen obsession. From his first 1969 Beetle in 1995 to owning more than 200 Volkswagens, Jason shares the cars, people, memories, and experiences that made VW culture such a huge part of his life.We talk about restoring his first Beetle with his dad, growing up around sign painting and art, discovering pinstriping and custom graphics, and how skateboarding, BMX, and Volkswagen culture all became connected along the way.Jason also takes us through the history of Strictly VW&#39;s Auto Club, the club he founded in 1998 that has survived for nearly three decades by keeping things simple: good people, cool cars, and absolutely no unnecessary drama.And there&#39;s plenty more.We talk about:• Jason&#39;s first Volkswagen and the $300 Beetle that started it all• Collecting more than 200 Volkswagens• The cars he wishes he had never sold• Finding and saving Volkswagens that others had given up on• Pinstriping, custom graphics, and his work as a licensed Rat Fink artist• BMX racing, skateboarding, and their connection to VW culture• Balancing a 25-year career as a land surveyor with his creative pursuits• The history and philosophy behind Strictly VW&#39;s Auto Club• Building a welcoming, drama-free Volkswagen community• His eight kids and his family&#39;s role in his VW journey• His upcoming Volkswagen-themed wedding, &#34;Pistons and Rings&#34;• His current 1964 Single Cab project• The people who have influenced him throughout the VW community• His favorite Volkswagen styles and why patina never goes out of style• What he hopes his legacy will be within the Volkswagen communityThis episode is about much more than Volkswagens.It&#39;s about the people behind the cars, the friendships built along the way, and what happens when a passion that starts with one old Beetle becomes a way of life.If you&#39;ve ever owned a Volkswagen, raced BMX, built a car, painted a stripe, started a club, or simply found your people through car culture, you&#39;re going to want to hear this one.This is JBug&#39;s story.Welcome to Episode 76 of DubLife Diaries — the VW Lifestyle Podcast.Follow DubLife Diaries for more conversations with the people who make the Volkswagen community what it is.#DubLifeDiaries #JBug #JasonWharton #Volkswagen #VW #VWLife #VWCommunity #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenBeetle #VWBus #BMX #Pinstriping #CarCulture #VolkswagenCulture

JBug-Jason Wharton-200+ Volkswagens, Art & a Lifetime in VW Culture Ep76

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Some classic Volkswagens have history. Others have legends.In Episode 75 of Dub Life Diaries, Joe Person sits down with Tony Hall to tell the unbelievable story of his 1958 Glacier Blue Volkswagen Beetle—a project that became a years-long rollercoaster of missing paperwork, title nightmares, restoration scams, legal battles, and ultimately redemption.What started as a seemingly simple $1,800 eBay purchase quickly turned into one of the wildest restoration stories you&#39;ll ever hear. The Beetle arrived completely disassembled, hidden VIN issues nearly made it impossible to title, and Tony launched a nationwide search to find the original owner in hopes of correcting a decades-old paperwork mistake.Just when things seemed to be moving forward, the project took another devastating turn after being entrusted to a builder who would later face fraud charges. Tony shares the warning signs he missed, the costly lessons learned, and the emotional journey of eventually tracking down the completed Beetle after it had been sold to someone else.Whether you&#39;re restoring your first classic VW or have lived through your own project-car nightmare, this episode is packed with real-world advice about patience, choosing the right builder, protecting yourself during restorations, and why some cars become part of your family&#39;s story forever.In this episode:<ul><li>The story behind Tony&#39;s rare 1958 Glacier Blue Beetle</li><li>Buying a disassembled VW sight unseen from eBay</li><li>Solving a costly VIN and title mistake</li><li>Tracking down the original owner years later</li><li>Avoiding restoration scams and dishonest builders</li><li>Recovering from one of the biggest setbacks a VW enthusiast can face</li><li>Lessons every project-car owner should hear</li><li>Tony&#39;s current VW projects, including his 1961 Ragtop</li><li>Rapid-fire VW favorites and future dream builds</li></ul> If you love Volkswagen Beetles, air-cooled VWs, restoration stories, classic cars, and the incredible people behind them, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Dub Life Diaries, where we share the stories, people, and passion that make the Volkswagen community one of a kind.

The Glacier Blue Beetle That Refused to Die | Tony Hall's Incredible VW Restoration Story Ep75

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In Episode 74 of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Buddy Demers, a lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast whose passion for air-cooled VWs began in the Pacific Northwest and continues today with one of the most recognizable Type 3 Notchbacks around—his 1964 Notchback affectionately known as &#34;Baby Got Sauce.&#34;Buddy takes us on a journey through the Volkswagen scene of the 1990s in Salem, Oregon, where friendships with legends like Ed Edwards of Northwest Metal Works helped shape his love for Volkswagens. From his first matte black &#39;64 Beetle to the hood ride culture, custom suspension builds, and the tight-knit VW community that influenced him, Buddy shares stories that every air-cooled enthusiast will appreciate.We also dive into the remarkable history of Baby Got Sauce—a Florida-born Notchback that made its way to Hawaii before returning home, eventually becoming the incredible restoration it is today. Buddy opens up about preserving the car&#39;s legacy, assembling it with rare period-correct parts, and the unforgettable engine built by the legendary Scooter.Whether you&#39;re into Type 3s, Cal-Look culture, vintage Volkswagens, or simply love hearing the stories behind the people who make this hobby special, this episode is packed with history, inspiration, and plenty of laughs.In This Episode:<ul><li>The story behind Baby Got Sauce, Buddy&#39;s iconic 1964 Type 3 Notchback</li><li>Growing up in the legendary Oregon VW scene</li><li>Memories of Ed Edwards, Wagons West, and Wagon Works</li><li>Buddy&#39;s first 1964 Beetle and how it sparked a lifelong obsession</li><li>Rare Volkswagen parts, vintage engine builds, and craftsmanship</li><li>East Coast vs. West Coast VW culture</li><li>How social media has changed the air-cooled community</li><li>Advice for first-time Volkswagen owners</li><li>Upcoming VW events and the future of the hobby</li></ul> If you enjoy celebrating the people who keep the Volkswagen community alive, don&#39;t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow VW enthusiast.🌐 Learn more about the show and apply to be a guest at DubLifeDiaries.com

Buddy Demers & Baby Got Sauce – A 64 -Notchback with an Incredible Story Ep74

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What does it take to build one of the most respected names in the air-cooled Volkswagen restoration world?In this episode of DubLife Diaries, I sit down with Morrie Hozen of Silver Lining Auto Restoration along with his nephews Moisei Prohoroff and Phil Prohoroff, the team behind West Coast Classic Interiors and Loose Nut Safaris. Together, they&#39;re preserving the craftsmanship, quality, and passion that keep classic Volkswagens on the road for generations to come.We dive into how Morrie left a successful career to follow his passion for restoration, the challenges of building a business from the ground up, and how the family has grown their companies into a thriving operation specializing in some of the finest restorations and parts in the classic VW industry.We also discuss:• The truth about running a family business• What separates an average restoration from an award-winning one• Why quality craftsmanship still matters in today&#39;s world• The evolution of the air-cooled Volkswagen hobby• The future of Safari windows and classic VW interiors• Lessons learned from acquiring legendary VW brands• Advice for anyone restoring their first VolkswagenWhether you&#39;re restoring your dream Beetle, Bus, Ghia, or simply love hearing the stories behind the people shaping the VW community, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories.🎙️ Guests:• Morrie Hozen – Silver Lining Auto Restoration• Moisei Prohoroff – West Coast Classic Interiors• Phil Prohoroff – Loose Nuts Safaris If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another VW enthusiast. Every share helps keep the air-cooled community growing.Follow DubLife Diaries for more conversations with the builders, restorers, racers, collectors, and personalities who make the Volkswagen lifestyle unlike any other.

Building an Empire with Silver Lining Restorations, West Coast Classic Interiors & Loose Nuts Safaris Ep73

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What does it take to become one of the most recognizable personalities in the air-cooled Volkswagen world?In this episode of DubLife Diaries, I sit down with Glenn Obert, better known as The Duckman from Duckman Cycles &amp; VW Garage. With over two decades of creating VW content and a loyal YouTube following of more than 90,000 subscribers, Glenn shares the stories, successes, and challenges that have shaped his journey.We talk about his legendary chopped 1956 Oval Beetle, how he learned to fabricate using whatever materials he had available, the evolution of YouTube, and why authenticity still matters in today&#39;s creator economy. Glenn also shares the inspiration behind founding the Oil Slicker Society International, a Volkswagen club built around positivity, inclusion, and bringing enthusiasts together.Along the way, we discuss creativity, resourcefulness, the future of the Volkswagen hobby, the impact of AI on learning real-world skills, and what keeps Glenn motivated after decades in the community.Whether you&#39;re restoring your first Beetle, fabricating your dream build, or simply love hearing the stories behind the people who make the Volkswagen community special, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.In This Episode<ul><li>Glenn&#39;s journey to becoming &#34;The Duckman&#34;</li><li>Building the iconic chopped Oval Beetle</li><li>20+ years of YouTube and content creation</li><li>Growing Duckman Cycles &amp; VW Garage</li><li>The story behind Oil Slicker Society International</li><li>Why creativity and resourcefulness still matter</li><li>The changing Volkswagen community</li><li>Advice for builders and content creators</li></ul> If you enjoyed this episode, please follow DubLife Diaries, leave a review, and share it with another Volkswagen enthusiast. Your support helps us continue sharing the stories of the people who keep the air-cooled community alive.Connect with GlennYoutube : Duckman Cycles &amp; VW Garage Facebook : Oil Slicker Society Internationalwww.DuckShit.net (All Glenns contact Info is here). Follow DubLife DiariesNew episodes featuring builders, collectors, racers, restorers, and Volkswagen enthusiasts from around the world.

Glenn Obert -The Duckman- Building Greatness and Growing a VW Community Ep72

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What does it take to build an award-winning upholstery business from the ground up?In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with Alan of Vara Upholstery to talk about the journey behind one of the most respected names in custom Volkswagen and marine interiors.Alan shares how buying a boat with damaged upholstery sparked an unexpected career, leading him to apprentice for free, open a tiny shop known as &#34;The Shack,&#34; and eventually earn recognition as Best Upholstery Shop in Tampa Bay. Along the way, he opens up about failed businesses, taking risks, learning from costly mistakes, and why creativity has always driven everything he builds.The conversation also dives into:·       How Alan discovered the Volkswagen community·       The story behind some of his favorite custom builds·       Winning multiple classes at Bug Jam·       Building the Salty Dub community and the vision for its future·       Lessons every entrepreneur can learn about taking chances and keeping your word·       Why success today means more than just making moneyWhether you&#39;re into Volkswagens, custom fabrication, entrepreneurship, or simply love hearing the stories behind passionate builders, this is an episode you won&#39;t want to miss.🎙 Guest: Alan Guevara– Vara Upholstery www.VaraUpholstrey.com🛒 Support our sponsors:Use code DUBLIFE10 for discounts on Salty Dub merchandise, including the popular vent window clips. www.Saltydub.comSame discount code applies to Volksmania Magazine www.VolksMania.comIf you enjoy the show, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another VW enthusiast. Every download helps us continue sharing the stories that make the Volkswagen community so special.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VWLife #AirCooled #VaraUpholstery #CustomInteriors #ClassicVW #BugJam #SaltyDub #Entrepreneurship

From The Shack to Award Winning Alan Guevara Vara Upholstery Ep71

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What happens when you take a 1960 Volkswagen panel bus, point it toward the horizon, and refuse to stop?In Episode 70 of Dub Life Diaries, Joe sits down with Dave Broenen, better known as the pilot of the legendary KRUST BUS, to talk about an incredible journey that has taken him more than 78,000 miles across 38 states in just 23 months.Dave shares how a lifelong love of Volkswagens, inspired by his family and his first rusty Beetle, eventually led him to purchase and transform a weathered split-window bus into one of the most recognizable adventure vehicles in the VW community. Along the way, he has crossed mountain passes, explored remote backroads, camped across America, and built friendships that prove the Volkswagen community is unlike any other.In this episode, you&#39;ll hear:✅ The story behind the KRUST BUS and the “Bus Pilot” nickname✅ How Dave prepared a vintage VW for cross-country travel✅ The engine combinations and upgrades that survived nearly 80,000 miles✅ Breakdowns that became unforgettable adventures✅ Incredible stories of kindness from VW enthusiasts across the country✅ Essential advice for first-time vintage Volkswagen owners✅ Why “Drive Your Bus” has become more than just a hashtagFrom snow trips on Mount Shasta to award-winning cross-country adventures, Dave&#39;s story is a reminder that the best memories often happen when things don&#39;t go according to plan.If you&#39;ve ever dreamed of hitting the open road in an air-cooled Volkswagen, this episode is for you.🎙️ Guest: Dave Broenen🚌 Vehicle: The KRUST BUS (1960 VW Panel Bus)📍 Journey: 78,000+ Miles | 38 States | 23 Months🏁 Goal: 100,000 Miles by the end of the yearListen now and discover why sometimes the breakdowns create the best stories.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VWBus #SplitWindowBus #AirCooledVW #RoadTrip #KrustBus #VintageVolkswagen #VWCommunity #DriveYourBus #Podcast #DaveBroenen #VolkswagenAdventure #BusLife #CrossCountryRoadTrip

77,000+ Miles. 38 States. One Legendary VW Krust Bus Dave Broenen Ep70

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What happens when a childhood surrounded by Volkswagens turns into a lifelong passion that brings families, friends, and an entire community together?In Episode 69 of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with José Rodriguez of Factor Volkswagen to explore his incredible journey from growing up in Puerto Rico to becoming a driving force in the Volkswagen scene in Florida.José shares stories of learning mechanics alongside his father, the influence of his brother Juan, and how Factor Volkswagen grew from a simple idea into one of Puerto Rico’s premier VW events—bringing together camping, live music, beach vibes, incredible cars, and lifelong friendships.From restoring his beloved 1983 Vanagon and building a stunning 1962 Beetle with his wife, to overcoming breakdowns in 105-degree heat and discovering that the VW community is always there when you need it most, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and genuine passion.We also dive into:<ul><li>🇵🇷 The rich Volkswagen culture of Puerto Rico</li><li>🚐 The story behind Factor Volkswagen’s incredible events</li><li>🔧 Learning to wrench from family and experience</li><li>❤️ How building Volkswagens strengthened family bonds</li><li>🏕️ Camping, road trips, and adventures in a Vanagon</li><li>🤝 Why the VW community feels more like family than a hobby</li><li>🌴 The vision for bringing Puerto Rican VW culture to the mainland U.S.</li><li>🚗 José’s dream Volkswagen and rapid-fire VW questions</li></ul> Whether you own a Beetle, Bus, Vanagon, Karmann Ghia, Golf, or simply love hearing stories about people whose lives have been transformed through cars and community, this episode is for you.Connect with Factor Volkswagen and keep an eye on their upcoming events as they continue building bridges between Puerto Rico and the U.S. VW scene.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another VW enthusiast. Every share helps keep the DubLife alive.#DubLifeDiaries #FactorVolkswagen #PuertoRico #Volkswagen #VWCommunity #Vanagon #Beetle #AirCooled #VWLife #ClassicCars #RoadTrips #Family #Podcast #JoseRodriguez

Life-Love-Volkswagens-Jose Rodriguez-Factor Volkswagen Ep69

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From a $300 Beetle at age 14 to a garage full of VW memories, Jeff Pierce shares the story behind his beloved Super Beetle, Butters, and a lifetime spent living the VW lifestyle.What starts as a childhood memory of a family Beetle turns into a lifelong Volkswagen addiction.In this episode of Dub Life Diaries, Joe sits down with Volkswagen enthusiast Jeff Pierce, owner of a beloved 1973 Super Beetle named Butters. From buying his first Beetle at just 14 years old while working at McDonald&#39;s to owning nearly 20 Volkswagens throughout his life, Jeff shares the stories, lessons, successes, and mistakes that shaped his VW journey.Joe and Jeff dive into what makes the Volkswagen community different from every other automotive scene. They discuss the friendships, roadside rescues, garage-built projects, and the welcoming culture that keeps people coming back generation after generation.Topics include:• The story behind Butters the 1973 Super Beetle• Jeff&#39;s first VW purchase at age 14• Owning nearly 20 Volkswagens over the years• Why the VW community is unlike any other car culture• Air-cooled vs. water-cooled Volkswagens• Rare finds, barn finds, and estate auction discoveries• Major VW events including Eureka Springs and Port City Volkswagen Show• The challenges of finding skilled air-cooled mechanics today• Why younger generations aren&#39;t entering the hobby at the same rate• Jeff&#39;s dream Volkswagens still on his bucket listWhether you&#39;re restoring your first Beetle, cruising in a Bus, building a Cal-Look car, or simply love hearing stories from passionate enthusiasts, this episode is packed with Volkswagen memories and community spirit.🎙️ Follow DubLife Diaries for more stories from the people who keep Volkswagen culture alive.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VWLife #SuperBeetle #AirCooledVW #VolkswagenBeetle #VWCommunity #ClassicVolkswagen #VWPodcast #ButtersTheBeetle

Jeff Pierce & Butters the Super Beetle | A Lifetime of Volkswagen Obsession Ep68

Welcome to DubLife Diaries – the ultimate podcast for Volkswagen enthusiasts and anyone who loves a good story! Dive into the world of classic VW culture as we celebrate the passion, creativity, and community that make these iconic cars so special. From vintage Beetles and Buses to Karmann Ghias and Things, we spotlight the unique stories of individuals and families who use these vehicles to drive their dreams. Each episode features inspiring interviews with VW lovers, business owners, and hobbyists who’ve turned their passion for Volkswagens into a way of life. Hear about their journeys, challenges, and successes—and of course, the role these timeless cars play in it all. Whether you’re a lifelong “dubber,” just discovering the VW world, or simply love hearing amazing stories, DubLife Diaries is for you! New episodes drop regularly. Hit that subscribe button and join us as we ride through the heart of the Volkswagen community. Let’s roll! 🎙️ Host: Joe Person - A lifelong VW enthusiast with a love for connecting with incredible people 🚗 Topics: Classic Volkswagen culture, stories, and community 📅 Follow for updates