DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast

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 generations

This 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 

Episode 63 – Kyle Badertscher | Port City VW Car Show & Burn Camp Mission

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with Kyle Badertscher, the heart behind the Port City Volkswagen Car Show—one of the most meaningful VW events in the country.

Kyle shares his incredible journey into the Volkswagen world, from not owning his first car until his late 20s to becoming a driving force in a thriving VW community. What started with a single 1970 Bay Window bus named Bonnie turned into something much bigger—an annual event that now brings together hundreds of enthusiasts from across the country.

But this show is about more than just cars.

The Port City VW Car Show is built on purpose—raising money for the Oklahoma Firefighters Burn Camp, a life-changing program that supports children who have suffered severe burns and disfigurements. Kyle opens up about his personal connection to the cause, his role as a camp counselor, and how this mission fuels everything he does.

We dive into:

• The story behind Bonnie and Kyle’s VW journey
• How the Port City VW Show grew into a 500–700 car event
• The unique “Fab 15” awards and community-driven culture
• Why the Volkswagen community feels more like family
• The real impact of the Oklahoma Firefighters Burn Camp
• What it takes to build an event with purpose, heart, and longevity

This episode is a powerful reminder that cars can bring people together—but purpose is what makes it unforgettable.

If you love VW culture, community, and stories that actually matter… this one hits different.

📍 Port City VW Car Show

Held annually the first Saturday in June in Catoosa, Oklahoma

🎯 Mission: Supporting children through the Oklahoma Firefighters Burn Camp

🎙️ DubLife Diaries

Real stories. Real builds. Real people.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who loves the VW lifestyle.

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 art
• The mindset behind his signature “detail without detail” style
• How stance, attitude, and personality define great automotive design
• The reality of being a self-taught artist breaking into the scene
• His experience collaborating on builds and even appearing on TV

This 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.com

In this episode of DubLife Diaries, we sit down with longtime event promoter Randy Yoho to break down the massive success of Florida Bug Jam 2025 — one of the largest Volkswagen gatherings on the East Coast, drawing over 10,000 attendees.

We dive into what it really takes to organize a show of this scale, from permits and insurance to managing over 60 car classes and thousands of participants. Randy shares insights from his 47 years in the event world, including his experience with Red Bull Day in the Dirt, and how that knowledge translates into building unforgettable VW events.

We also talk about what’s next…

From new ideas like a Friday night cook-off, expanded stereo competitions, and a “Pimp Your Campsite” contest, to possibly moving the stage indoors — this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insight and future plans for Bug Jam 2026.

More importantly, we get into the bigger picture:

How do we grow the Volkswagen community, attract the next generation, and keep the culture alive while evolving with the times?

If you’re into VW culture, car shows, or building community through events — this episode is for you. We cover : 

Florida Bug Jam 2025 recap (10,000+ attendees)

What it takes to run a major car show

Behind-the-scenes challenges (permits, insurance, weather)

Ideas and upgrades for 2026

Growing the VW community and attracting younger enthusiasts

Event logistics, judging, and organization

The future of Volkswagen culture

Shout Outs : 

• Volksmania Magazine
• Salty Dub
• Vara Upholstery

Follow along for updates, future events, and more episodes of DubLife Diaries.

Final Thought:

This isn’t just about cars… it’s about community.

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 builds
• Lessons learned working on exotic cars like Ferraris and Porsches
• His time in SCCA racing and the evolution of car culture
• The story behind his most recognized builds
• The power of documentation, craftsmanship, and legacy

Plus, 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.

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

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

We unpack how Bren helped bring events like Eurofest and local cruise nights back from the dead, creating spaces where enthusiasts can connect, race, and keep the spirit of air-cooled Volkswagens thriving. He also pulls back the curtain on his success in bracket racing, where consistency beats speed and mindset is everything.

This conversation also hits on some real truths about the hobby today — rising costs, the impact of high-end flipping, and what it means for the next generation trying to get into the scene.

If you’re into Volkswagens, racing, or just love hearing how someone turns passion into impact, this one delivers.

In this episode, we cover:

• Bren’s journey into the VW world and his current collection
• The revival of Eurofest and Michigan VW drag racing
• What it really takes to win in bracket racing
• The power of grassroots events and community building
• Concerns about the future of air-cooled culture
• Advice for anyone looking to get into Volkswagens

Whether you’re a seasoned VW enthusiast or just getting started, this episode is a reminder that it’s not just about the cars — it’s about the people behind them.

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:

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  [email protected]

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

Growing up in Grand Junction, Colorado, Kristopher shares his journey from small-town roots to working on oil rigs, and how that path ultimately led him to discover a deep passion for restoring classic Volkswagens. Along the way, he uncovers a rare Porsche 356 roller crank hidden within the motor—setting the stage for an ambitious transformation into a full-blown drag car.

Joe and Kristopher get into the realities behind the build: the late nights, the learning curves, and the challenge of balancing family life while chasing a vision. They also talk about what makes the Volkswagen community so different—the camaraderie, the creativity, and why so many people find restoration work to be therapeutic.

With plans to debut the finished build at Volkswagens on the Green in 2026, this episode is packed with inspiration, passion, and the kind of story that reminds you why we all love the VW scene.

Whether you're into air-cooled classics, custom builds, or just love a good underdog story—this is one you won’t want to miss.

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

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

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

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

John’s journey takes him through Baja, California, and across the legendary Route 66 during its 100th anniversary year, connecting iconic landscapes with deeply personal meaning. Each leg of the trip represents a different chapter of his life — honoring his past through the Beetle while embracing his present capabilities behind the wheel of the Bronco.

But this story isn’t just about cars or miles traveled.

It’s about the philosophy behind the words “Memento Mori” — remember that you will die — and how that reminder can inspire us to live more intentionally, pursue our passions, and celebrate the communities that bring us together.

Along the way, John shares the heart behind the journey, the lessons learned from rebuilding both a car and a life, and how the Volkswagen community continues to be a powerful force connecting people across generations.

This episode is about adventure, perspective, and the courage to chase what matters most while we still have the time.

If you love road trips, air-cooled Volkswagens, and stories about people who refuse to live life halfway — this one is for you.