DubLife Diaries The VW Lifestyle Podcast

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.

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.