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.  

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 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.  

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, 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.  

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 • 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. • Vintage Voice Magazine — A publication of the Vintage Volkswagen Club of America → www.vvca.com • Become a Pro Member. 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow/subscribe, rate 5⭐️, and share with your VW crew—it helps us keep the stories rolling.  

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.   TikTok - klunkgarage Instagram - klunkgarage Liam email - liam.sianko@gmail.com This podcast is proudly sponsored by Volksmania Magazine - www.volksmania.com use dublife10 at checkout  This episode is proudly sponsored by Chris White and Riverbank Customs.  Check them out on YouTube- www.youtube.com/@riverbankcustoms1127        

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 family’s legacy, you can contribute here: GoFundMe link📧 To connect with Guinevere directly: guineverefinearts@gmail.com This podcast is proudly sponsored by Volksmania Magazine—the heartbeat of the VW scene. Grab your first issue at www.volksmania.com and use code dublife10 for 10% off. Special thanks to Chris White and the team at Riverbank Customs for supporting this episode. Check out their builds and stories on YouTube, socials, and at www.riverbankcustoms.com.        

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 sponsored by Volksmania Magazine.   USA- Subscribers can use DubLife10 at checkout for 10& off your first issue.   www.VolksMania.com  This episode is sponsored by Salty Dub.   From the beach to the bay Salty Dub is all things VW events and swag.  Check them out at www.saltydub.com  Find Gary Miller below:  www.VwJawbreaker.com Email at: 73jawbreaker@gmail.com Youtube: @VWJawbreaker 

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 Sponsored by VolksMania Magazine.  www.VolksMania.com use DubLife10 at checkout.    This Episode is sponsored by Salty Dub - www.saltydub.com also use dublife10 at checkout for 10% off merch only     

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. Tune in and don't miss this one.  If you want to check out Volksmania Magazine - Use DubLife10 at checkout for 10% off your subscription (US only)     

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 about personal experiences, mental health, and the powerful role that the air-cooled VW scene has played in his life journey. Recognizing Men’s Mental Health On this episode 26, Jaga and I touch on something that matters far beyond cars — men’s mental health. If you’re listening right now and you’ve been carrying more than you can handle, remember: asking for help isn’t weakness, it’s one of the strongest things you can do. It’s one of the coolest things you can do — because it means you’re taking the wheel and steering your life where you want it to go.   You are not alone, and there’s help out there, Im available for anyone who wants to talk www.dublifediaries.com also here are some references:   Canada   📞 Talk Suicide Canada – Call or text 988 | 24/7 free support 🌐 talksuicide.ca United States   📞 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 | 24/7 free support 🌐 988lifeline.org If you’re struggling — even just feeling “off” — reach out. Your friends, your family, and your fellow VW enthusiasts want you here, sharing the road with us. Even if you are not suicidal and just want to open up and face some internal stuff.  Reach out to a therapist. So many options out there these days online. It's the COOL thing to do.       This Podcast is sponsored by Volksmania Magazine www.volksmania.com use DUBLIFE10 at checkout for 10% off your magazine subscription.    This Episode is sponsored by Salty Dub.  All things VW events and swag.  www.saltydub.com use DUBLIFE10 for 10% off merch.     You can find Jaga @ Jaga Rai on Facebook.  Insta : jaga_rai  DVKK on Insta : der_volksrennwagen_kafer_klub    

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 the camaraderie found at VW events. Get inspired by his insights on maintaining these classic cars and passing the Volkswagen legacy to the younger generation.   Shout out to Volksmanie magazine.   Use Dublife10 at checkout for 10% off Look for the feature article in the magazine every issue.      Shout out Salty Dub.   www.saltydub.com use DubLife10 at checkout for 10% off merch.       

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 engage the community at AfroBeatle. Through personal anecdotes and stories of travels, partnerships, and creativity, Marcel offers insights into the nostalgia of old Volkswagens and how they bridge gaps between cultures and generations. Join us for a conversation filled with rhythm, restoration, and the timeless allure of classic cars!   Sponsored by the best VW magazine in the world Volksmania Magazine - www.volksmania.com use dublife10 at checkout for 10% off your first issue.     This episode is sponsored by Salty Dub.  From the beach to the bay Salty Dubs is all things VW Events and Swag.  Check them out www.SaltyDub.com  use DubLife10 at checkout for 10% off your merch.      check us out at www.DubLifeDiaries.com you can leave a review and even register to become a future guest.  Check out the "Guest Intake Form" I'll get back in touch asap.       See You in The Slow Lane 

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 discovering creative solutions to unexpected breakdowns. Hear from Todd about how passion and creativity fueled his transition into a celebrated VW enthusiast and YouTube creator. Tune in as we dive deep into Todd and his son's adventures in collecting an eclectic mix of vintage vehicles, from Beetles to Ford trucks, each carrying its own story and a piece of family history. Whether you're a die-hard car lover or simply enjoy a good story, this episode promises to be a thrilling ride through the world of all things VW.   Check out Todds YOUTUBE Channel @pratersmechanicalmysteryto4634   This Podcast is sponsored by VolksMania Magazine - USA Subscribers can use DUBLIFE10 to receive 10% off their subscription.   www.volksmania.com   This episode is sponsored by Salty Dub - From the beach to the bay Salty dub is all things VW events and swag.  Check them out at www.saltydub.com use DUBLIFE10 for 10% off your merch purchase.     

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 the horizons of creativity and restoration. Meet the next generation as the Still family raises kids embedded in a legacy of automotive craftsmanship, from restoring iconic vehicles to creating unique parade floats like Bodie McBoatface. Join us in celebrating family dedication and the magic of following one's dreams against all odds.   The podcast is sponsored by VolksMania Magazine.   The flyest VW mag EVER use DUBLIFE10 at check out.   USA Subs only    This episode is sponsored by Salty Dub. From the beach to the bay, all things VW swag and events.  Check these guys out www.saltydub.com use DUBLIFE10 at checkout for 10% OFF Merch    Check out NVT Rod and Custom https://www.nvtrodandcustom.com/