DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast

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'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's story is a reminder that the best memories often happen when things don't go according to plan.If you'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 #CrossCountryRoadTripSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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'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'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't entering the hobby at the same rate• Jeff's dream Volkswagens still on his bucket listWhether you'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 #ButtersTheBeetleSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

From a backyard BBQ during one of the hardest seasons of life… to building one of Colorado’s fastest-growing air-cooled VW communities — this episode tells the story behind 303 Dubs.Joe sits down with founder Josh Williams to talk about how a small gathering created to lift his father’s spirits during his cancer battle turned into a movement centered around classic Volkswagens, brotherhood, culture, and community.They dive into:• The origins of 303 Dubs• Colorado VW culture and the Denver scene• Building a drama-free community• Poker cruises, DubFest, and Mile High memories• Air-cooled Volkswagens and the people behind them• Why culture matters more than cloutWith stories from Red Rocks, Mile High Stadium, Denver cruises, and the future of Denver DubFest, this episode captures the spirit of Colorado car culture and the people keeping it alive.If you love vintage Volkswagens, road-trip culture, community, and real stories — this one’s for you.🎙️ DubLife Diaries — The Journey. The Culture. The Community.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

Episode 64 of DubLife Diaries is all about family, legacy, resilience, and the Volkswagen lifestyle that connects generations.Joe sits down with Drew Estep from Tennessee to talk about growing up around Volkswagens, learning life lessons through old Beetles, and how air-cooled VWs became more than just transportation for his family. From $300 Bugs with wooden bumpers to his dream 1963 double cab Splitty, Drew shares stories that are funny, emotional, nostalgic, and deeply relatable to anyone who’s ever had a car become part of their identity.In this episode, Drew opens up about:• Growing up in East Tennessee with a military family• His father’s influence and the VW memories that shaped him• The first Beetle that started the obsession• Building a garage around his 1978 Champagne Edition bus• Why Volkswagens became therapy, family, and legacy• His current VW collection and dream builds• The emotional connection behind preserving these cars for future generationsThis conversation is a reminder that the VW community isn’t really about cars — it’s about stories, memories, and the people behind the wheel.If you love air-cooled Volkswagens, family stories, road trip memories, and authentic conversations, this episode is for you.#DubLifeDiaries #Volkswagen #VWBus #AirCooled #VWBeetle #ClassicVW #VolkswagenBus #DubLife #Tennessee #VWLife #VintageVolkswagen #VWCommunity #ClassicCars #AutomotivePodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with automotive artist Johnny Jalopy to unpack the story behind the style that’s turning heads across the custom car scene.Johnny shares how his journey started with childhood inspiration, shaped by his father’s artistic influence and a passion for cars that never let up. What began as sketches and side projects evolved into a full-blown creative business—one rooted in honoring legacy, pushing boundaries, and refusing to follow traditional rules of automotive art. We dive into:His evolution from traditional drawing to digital artThe mindset behind his signature “detail without detail” styleHow stance, attitude, and personality define great automotive designThe reality of being a self-taught artist breaking into the sceneHis experience collaborating on builds and even appearing on TVThis episode is more than art—it’s about identity, creativity, and carving your own lane in a world full of copy-and-paste culture. Whether you’re into Volkswagens, custom builds, or just love hearing how people turn passion into purpose, this one delivers.Tune in and get inspired to see cars—and creativity—through a whole new lens.Follow & Support:Be sure to follow, rate, and share the show—and keep an eye out for more stories from the people shaping car culture worldwide.Connect with Johnny www.johnnyjalopy.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with legendary Volkswagen builder Jeff Spearn to dive deep into a journey that defines passion, grit, and craftsmanship.Jeff shares how it all started with a burned-out $45 Super Beetle—and how that humble beginning led to a career filled with award-winning builds, magazine features, and a Top 10 finish at SEMA Battle of the Builders. From his iconic Diamond Green ’57 ragtop to the show-stopping “Dark Horse” ’56 Beetle in custom Merlot Red, Jeff breaks down the mindset, discipline, and attention to detail that separate good builds from unforgettable ones.We also get into:The difference between high-end restorations and garage buildsLessons learned working on exotic cars like Ferraris and PorschesHis time in SCCA racing and the evolution of car cultureThe story behind his most recognized buildsThe power of documentation, craftsmanship, and legacyPlus, Jeff shares his role in organizing the iconic Eureka Springs VW Weekend and how the Volkswagen community has evolved into a more unified, family-driven culture.Whether you’re a hardcore VW enthusiast, a builder, or just someone chasing excellence in your craft—this episode delivers real insight from someone who’s lived it at the highest level.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

What happens when you take pain, purpose, and a Volkswagen… and build something bigger than yourself? In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Colton “ ” Williams — founder of Bug Invasion — to unpack a raw and real journey of transformation. Colton opens up about battling depression, alcoholism, and the weight of a difficult childhood marked by bullying… and how the Volkswagen community became the unexpected turning point that changed everything. Now 3 years sober, Colton shares how finding belonging in the VW scene gave him purpose — and ultimately inspired him to create Bug Invasion, one of the most community-driven, family-friendly VW events around. We get into: The moment everything shifted in his life How the VW community helped him rebuild from the ground up The real story behind launching Bug Invasion Why he keeps the event affordable and family-focused The struggles with sponsorships and growing an event And how giving back became his mission This episode is about more than cars — it’s about redemption, resilience, and finding your people. If you’ve ever felt stuck, alone, or searching for purpose… this one hits different. To find Colton Bugman Williams online visit : sumerduckdragway.com or email thebuginvasion@gmail.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, Joe sits down with lifelong Volkswagen enthusiast Leo Van Delft, whose passion for air-cooled VWs spans more than five decades. Leo’s journey began in 1972 with a 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. What started as a simple love for the iconic cars quickly turned into a career. While still in college, Leo opened his own Volkswagen repair shop, building a reputation for keeping classic air-cooled machines on the road. He later transitioned into education, spending 23 years teaching automotive technology, sharing his knowledge and patience with the next generation of mechanics. Now retired, Leo has fully embraced the bus life, traveling the country in his beloved 1967 double-door panel bus. Along the way, he’s become a familiar face at major Volkswagen gatherings like Buses by the Bridge and Volksgiving, connecting with enthusiasts who share the same passion for vintage VWs and the freedom of the open road. In a surprising twist, Leo’s bus even became part of Oklahoma’s tourism promotions, turning him into an unexpected local celebrity featured in welcome guides and postcards. Throughout the conversation, Leo reflects on the importance of community, patience, and hands-on learning, both in the classroom and under the hood. He also shares advice for anyone dreaming of hitting the road in a VW bus: travel with friends, learn the basics of maintenance, and enjoy the journey. This episode is packed with stories from the road, classic VW culture, and the spirit that keeps the DubLife community rolling. 🚐 Topics in this episode: • Leo’s first Volkswagen and early repair shop days • Teaching automotive technology for 23 years • Life on the road in a 1967 double-door panel bus • Volkswagen events like Buses by the Bridge & Volksgiving • Becoming the face of Oklahoma tourism (unexpectedly!) • Advice for anyone starting their VW bus adventure #DubLifeDiaries #VolkswagenBus #VWLife #AirCooled #VanLife #VolkswagenCommunity Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations

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 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dublife-diaries-the-vw-lifestyle-podcast/donations