DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast

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 sustainability in mind. We dive into the unique design elements of the Karmann Ghia, its rare semi-automatic transmission, and how thoughtful modification preserves heritage rather than erasing it. The conversation also explores: • The emotional bond people form with their Volkswagens • The influence of culture and community in shaping identity • His involvement with the Low Budget Crew • His recent feature in Volksmania Magazine • Why simplicity is often the most powerful design choice This episode is about more than cars. It’s about legacy, patience, craftsmanship, and the connections forged through shared passion. If you believe a Volkswagen is never just transportation — this one is for you. Check out Type Society on all socials        

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 conversation highlighted the unique stories and connections that define the Volkswagen hobby, with Nick expressing gratitude for the positive impact it has had on his outlook and relationships. If you like Volkswagen enthusiasts or just hearing a great dub story this one is for you.         

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 way, and what it really means to earn your stripes in the aircooled world. We dive into: • The story behind iconic builds like the chopped-top “Purple People Eater” • Early racing days and the lessons that came from the track • Influences from VW legends and the companies that shaped the culture • Founding All Events & Shows and helping grow attendance nationwide • The evolution of VW culture — then vs now • Marriage, family, and building a lifestyle around Volkswagens with VolkyChica • Raising the next generation in the VW world This episode blends technical insight, culture, business, and personal legacy — exactly how DubLife Diaries was meant to feel. We close it out with a rapid-fire round where Jack shares his favorite parts, opinions, and unfiltered takes on the state of the scene. If you love Volkswagens, car culture, community impact, and hearing the real stories behind the builds — this one is for you. 🎧 Listen in. Share it with your crew. Keep the culture alive. #DubLifeDiaries #Aircooled #VWLife

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: How Bug-O-Rama Wichita started and grew Turning a car event into a charitable movement The power of the VW community when it rallies together Why giving back is at the core of everything Kurt does Stories from the show that remind you this scene is more family than hobby This conversation is about legacy, generosity, and what happens when car culture leads with heart. Kurt is the kind of guy who makes the VW world better just by being in it. If you’ve ever believed the VW community is different… this episode proves it. 🎧 Whether you're into Beetles, Buses, Ghias, or just good people doing good things — this one’s for you. #DubLifeDiaries #VWCommunity #Aircooled #BugORama #Volkswagen #CarCulture #GiveBack #VWLifestyle

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 the map • The reality behind customer expectations and project stress • When passion turns into pressure • What walking away taught him about life, identity, and purpose • Whether the spark ever truly dies This episode is for every builder, dreamer, and creator who has ever felt overwhelmed, underappreciated, or unsure if they can keep going. Sometimes the strongest move isn’t pushing through. Sometimes it’s stepping back. Raw. Honest. Real. One of the most human conversations we’ve had on the show. 🎙️ Welcome to DubLife Diaries — where the cars bring us together, but the stories are what keep us here. 👇 Drop a comment: Have you ever had to walk away from something you loved? #DubLifeDiaries #VWLife #Aircooled #CarCulture #BuildersJourney #Volkswagen #PodcastEpisode50

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 Volkswagens have always run side by side in his life. This episode isn’t just about music or cars — it’s about identity, self-expression, and building something real with your own hands. From teenage builds to stages and shows, D.Note shares what it means to stay rooted, stay creative, and keep pushing the culture forward. If you love classic VWs, underground hip-hop, or stories of people who live what they create, this one’s for you.    

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: The tight-knit VW community of the 80s and 90s and how it shaped generations Building both air-cooled and water-cooled Volkswagens—from GTIs to Eurovans Life inside Volkswagen dealership training and what it really takes to master the craft Why doing the job right matters more than doing it fast Raising the next generation of enthusiasts, including building his son’s first classic car The evolution of VW culture, parts quality, and the future of air-cooled cars Joe also talks about returning to Florida, the realities of today’s housing market, car life in different regions, and why Tampa Bay continues to pull enthusiasts back home. This episode is about more than cars—it’s about community, craftsmanship, and the stories that stay with you long after the engines cool. 🎙️ Listen now and experience the DubLife—where Volkswagens, people, and passion intersect.   Shout Out to Paul Cave and the team at Volkmania Magazine 

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 No Dough Weekend  How passion evolves over time—and why it never really fades The culture, community, and friendships that make this lifestyle different Lessons learned along the way that apply far beyond the garage Episode 46 marks a new chapter for DubLife Diaries—more depth, more honesty, and more real stories from the people who live this life every day. If you love air-cooled stories, late-night garage talks, and conversations that go deeper than horsepower numbers, this one’s for you.   🎙️ DubLife Diaries – The VW Lifestyle Podcast 🚗 Stories. Culture. Community. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support the VW community worldwide. 📅 New episodes rolling throughout 2026.   Shout out to Volksmania Magazine ... Volksmania.com use dublife10 for 10% off your USA Subscription  Shout Out to Salty Dub.  www.saltydub.com  use dublife10  gets you 10% off merch only    #DubLifeDiaries #VWLifestyle #VolkswagenCulture #AirCooled #VWCommunity #Podcast #Episode46 #VWStories #2026

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 episode isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about understanding how real progress is made—and why the people willing to take heat are usually the ones moving things forward. If you care about engineering, legacy, and doing things the right way—even when it’s unpopular—this one is a must-listen. 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 with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.

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 with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.          

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 - CapeCodBugs@gmail.com    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 with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.  

  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 coming weeks.    Get in touch with Jake Raby : https://aircooledtechnology.com/ 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 with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.        

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 behind‑the‑scenes memories, practical advice for aspiring VW storytellers, and the enduring message that the car may be the star, but the story is king.   Get in touch with Dan : dan@vwtrendsmagazine.com    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 the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.    

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 the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.  

  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 Mindset?, and how passion and purpose drive both community and impact. Locate Eric Here - president@vvwca.com  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 the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.

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=wwXIfr     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 the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.

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. • Chris White & Riverbank Customs → Watch their builds on YouTube: Riverbank Customs. • Salty Dub — From the beach to the bay, tearing up the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.  

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 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 the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.  

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 bay, tearing up the scene with VW swag + epic events → www.saltydub.com • Use code dublife10 (merch only) for 10% off. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.