Lets Talk Dubs

In this episode of the Let's Talk Dubs podcast, we dive into a big development in the VW drag racing world — the ROC Cory Mack Race cancellation and what it means for racers, fans, and the upcoming season. We also celebrate a major milestone as Zorba the Ghia finally appears in VW Trends Magazine after a year of waiting. Bill shares his unfiltered thoughts on seeing a go-kart featured on the cover of a major Volkswagen magazine and what that means for the direction of the hobby. From there we shift gears to the SEMA Show, breaking down the MST booth, the best Volkswagens at SEMA, standout builds, and trends shaping the air-cooled VW community for 2025. Plus, we get into updates on Bill's projects including new upgrades for #WhiteFlash, installing an Alpine audio system, tackling a new wiring harness, chasing down oil leaks, and dealing with powder-coating issues that every builder can relate to. If you're passionate about classic air-cooled Volkswagens, VW magazines, SEMA show coverage, Las Vegas VW culture,

Social media has become a powerhouse in today's Volkswagen hobby, and if you've spent any time online, you've definitely seen the rise of content creators shaping the air-cooled VW scene. One of the biggest names pushing the culture forward is Chris Davern, better known as @Driven60VW on Instagram. Based in Arizona, Chris has built a massive following of over 100,000 VW enthusiasts by consistently posting high-quality content centered around classic Volkswagens, restoration insights, and the day-to-day life inside the air-cooled community. In many ways, social media has become the new VW magazine, delivering fresh Volkswagen content straight to your phone in real time. This week on the show, we sit down with Chris to talk about his journey into the VW world, what sparked his passion, and how his online presence has evolved over the past five years. Chris brings a ton of positivity to the hobby, and his enthusiasm for vintage Volkswagens truly comes through in his posts, videos, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Brett Hawkbee is a name that's known throughout the UK for creating a legendary bug jam. The largest show in the UK and it's third year it broke all records for any show that was happening in the UK car show specific. Going to other shows and feeling like he could do better, he decided to put something together with an idea and a couple opportunities. The doubters were stacked against him thinking it would be a flop instead 38 years later it still, pushing right along. He's also the builder of the legendary Targa Ghia that was at One crazy weekend. That's now owned by Russell Ritchie. That car has a place in Volkswagen history of one of the most iconic 80s cars ever produced in the UK. This is a story of what happens when you have the desire, determination and a love for the hobby. Brett has gone on to do skateboard shows. Music festivals and other events. He was also the founder of the UK's VWDRC .  www.letstalkdubs www.vwtrendsmagazine.com www.rosswulf.com use LTD10 doe 10% off ICON Pistons here      

Scott Hopkins hails from Hyrum Gerogia his 1956 oval window is quite unique. What happens when you build a Volkswagen that doesn't follow the norms of your typical fue wheels and original paint colors and no customization. Well, in this case it will get you noticed at the triple Crown of hot rodding car show. And receiving a top 30 award that's example of modern Volkswagen builds that blend some hot rod flavor with traditional Volkswagen enthusiast styling. Over the past few years, we've seen influx of Volkswagens starting to show up at some of the hot rod shows and picking off some of the top awards. It's a trend. I enjoy seeing because it continues to push the hobby further into a new crowd that can expand their ideas into other car builds not just hot rods. this is a unique build that has a really good balance of hot rod and Vw creativity. One of the great things is that other than Paint Scott has done a lot of this work himself out of his garage over the past few years. A true labor of love while trying t

Rick Stanchfield has VW history starting back in the 1970's. His passion was fuled by the hearing some fast VWs while slinging drywall. His life was changed forever. He started with a single port engine then off to the races with his new "race Motor" running in the 12's. His path is  long & winding with the likes of Steve Tims. driving for lots of different people like Eric Ballard and many more. He moves from drywall to transaxels. Steve Timms buys the Lee Leighton Oval then they rebuilt the car and ran 10.30's. So much history in this podcast. Crazy stories about drag racing events.    www.vwtrendsmagazine.com www.rosswulf.com ICON pistons here  www.letstalkdubs.com  

One Crazy weekend has passed and we sit down with Andy Finch & Trav lawton and discuss the weekend events from the weekend. Lots happend this week up to and during the event. Top 20 awards Best of show winner for $1,000 and the specialty awards. Travs perspective as a visitor from out of country. Andys push to get the OCW 68 & Sin City 69 to the finishline. We dicuss the events of the Poker tournament, Bowling torunament & strip cruise then the car show with the finally of the Poker Run! what an event!

For anyone who lived through the classic Volkswagen scene of the 1980s, the Raspberry Volkswagen Type 3 Fastback with the Targa Top is impossible to forget. This one-of-a-kind custom VW build captured the spirit of the era and became one of the most talked-about Type 3s of its time. In this episode of Let’s Talk Dubs, I sit down with Eddie, the man behind this legendary Fastback, to hear the full story. From the moment a teenage enthusiast first stumbled onto the car, to the late nights in the neighborhood garage, this build represents the passion that fueled the VW hobby in the 80s. We cover how the custom Type 3 Fastback dominated the awards at Type 3 Day, went on to appear in Volkswagen magazines across the globe, and cemented its place in VW history. Whether you’re into Type 3 restoration, 80s Volkswagen culture, or iconic show cars that changed the scene, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.     www.letstalkdubs.com www.vwtrendsmagazine.com www.rosswulf.com  

Two weeks to go until one crazy weekend. This week on the podcast Joey Geridano from Werkstat Restoration talking about the  80's car he's building for Andy Finch from spikes vintage restoration in the UK. Also, he's got something else up his sleeve. Tory Alonzo is going to debut latest project AFTERSHOCK. An 80s style build roadster with a 2025 technology twist we talk about the cars building some of the things that are being done and more about what makes One crazy. We can such an exciting experience for anyone that's able to make it. Make sure you go to let's talk.com and register today! www.letstalkdubs.com always support our sponsors www.letstalkdubs.com https://sewfineproducts.com www.vvwtrendsmagazine.com www.rosswulf.com  

On this episode, I sit down with my friend Paul Bernardo—an engineer, builder, and true mechanical savant who has left his mark on both Volkswagen and Porsche history. I first met Paul more than a decade ago, and ever since hearing his story, I’ve wanted to bring it to the podcast. If you’re a fan of VW drag racing, you’ve probably heard of Mini Mike—the shortened wheelbase Volkswagen drag car that turned heads at the Bug-Ins back in the 1970s. That car was Paul’s creation. With a background in engineering, Paul could have gone in any direction, but he chose to dive into Volkswagens and eventually Porsches, turning his passion into a career that’s inspired countless enthusiasts. Paul is a true Renaissance man: a builder who can make almost anything happen, a guy who sees opportunities where others see limits, and someone who has always been driven by creativity and precision. In this episode, we unpack his journey—from early VW drag racing days to building a legacy around some of the most iconic cars in our h

Sewfine Interiors has been a cornerstone in the Volkswagen community since 1983, building a reputation as one of the premier upholstery and interior shops for classic VWs. Known for their award-winning craftsmanship, Sewfine has had their interiors featured in high-end show cars, concours-level restorations, and even on the hit TV series Bitchin’ Rides. Now based in Denver, Colorado, the new generation of Sewfine owners continues the tradition of excellence—specializing in factory-style VW upholstery, OEM-quality restorations, and full custom interior design for air-cooled Volkswagens, hot rods, and beyond. Whether you’re restoring a vintage Beetle, slamming a Bay Window Bus, or building a one-of-a-kind Cal-Look Bug, Sewfine can bring your vision to life with unmatched attention to detail. In this episode, Logan from Sewfine shares their process, from custom fabric matching and stitching to modern upgrades that blend seamlessly with classic Volkswagen style. If you’re looking to restore your VW interior or cr

The Bay Window Volkswagen Bus — affectionately (and sometimes not so affectionately) known as the Fat Chick, Late Model, Round Window, or Big Boy — covers the iconic 1968–1979 VW Bus era. It was the successor to the legendary split-window Bus, made famous on TV shows like Eight Is Enough, and while some purists dismissed it at first, others saw its potential and fell in love. In this episode, we look into the culture, history, and revival of these late-model Type 2 buses with Craig Gonzales (AKA Bay Window Mafia)  a true champion of the Bay Window scene. Craig’s passion for slammed, stylish late bays led him to create an Instagram page that exploded almost overnight, feeding the community’s hunger for photos, inspiration, and connection. He’s especially fond of early bays (1968–1971) — from high-roof postals to deluxe models — but appreciates every version in the lineup. We break down the key differences between early, mid, and late bay windows, explore their evolution, and talk about how Craig puts his own s

If you’re restoring a classic Volkswagen, chances are you’ve thought about the details that make your VW truly authentic – and few details matter more than a properly restored speedometer. Steve Burdett is one of the most interesting craftsmen in the hobby today. With a background in shaping fiberglass and building custom surfboards, Steve has always had a gift for creating things by hand. When the surfboard industry began to slow, he turned his skills toward another passion – vintage vehicles. Having restored Vespas and Lambretta scooters, Steve’s love for mechanical artistry eventually brought him back to his first automotive love: Volkswagens. After buying back his original Super Beetle from his brother, Steve began rebuilding VW speedometers, combining precision craftsmanship with a deep passion for the hobby. Today, through his business SpeedoKing.com, he offers expert speedometer restoration, repair, and customization for classic Volkswagen Beetles, Buses, Karmann Ghias, and more. In this episode, we di

On this episode, Bill and George discuss last several videos that George put out as well as the four shows that Bill went to little bit. Americna Cal-LOOK caravan, DKP reunion & EMPI History Tour with Dena Kirsten. Plus some projects in the work and a little bit of talk about electric AC on a Volkswagen.  Another round table for you guys to enjoy. Enjoy.   www.letstalkdubs.com www.vwtrendsmagazine.com www.russwulf.com use LTD10 for 10% off your order ICON pistons here   https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen https://www.youtube.com/@letstalkdubspodcast

In this episode, we dive into the story behind Discipline Child — a wildly custom 1955 Volkswagen Beetle owned by Cali Springer, originally from the Virgin Islands. What began as a simple inquiry about fuel injection turned into a one-of-a-kind build by Alvin Lawrence of Auto Fanatic, also hailing from the islands. This isn’t your typical classic VW Beetle. Discipline Child features a Subaru engine swap, full air suspension, electric air conditioning sourced from a Tesla, and a top-tier custom sound system. The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail reflects the dedication and discipline it took to see this project through to the end. From the island roots to the custom Budnik wheels, this car blends old-school air-cooled Volkswagen soul with cutting-edge modern tech — and it’s all done in true island style. If you’re passionate about vintage VWs, air-cooled culture, and radical custom builds, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Cali Springer is also the promoter for the VI bug out. We also tak

In this episode, we sit down with Rick Wright, owner of The Wright Gearbox, a name synonymous with precision-built transmissions in the off-road and high-performance VW world. Growing up wrenching in his family’s VW shop, Rick turned childhood passion into a powerhouse business dedicated to building and rebuilding transmissions for street, strip, sand, and race. Rick shares his journey in the VW industry , and how years of hands-on experience and customer-first philosophy help him deliver bulletproof gearboxes that stand up to serious abuse. We get into everything from working with major manufacturers on product development to testing gear sets with top race teams. Plus, Rick breaks down what sets The Wright Gearbox apart—whether it's magnafluxing every part, custom finishes, or dialing in the perfect gear ratio. And if you’ve been to a Southern California VW show lately, chances are you’ve seen one of Rick’s personal builds—a world-class VW Crew Cab pickup. Sitting on air suspension and powered by a fuel-inj

Being a Volkswagen Bus enthusiast is a challenge—but being a classic VW Bus guy in Canada is a whole different story. With harsh winters, salted roads, and constant snow and ice, early VW Buses are rare survivors in the north. But every now and then, someone gets lucky. In this episode, we sit down with AJ Welsh, a true OG in the Canadian air-cooled VW scene and a proud member of the Four Stack Mafia. AJ shares the incredible story behind his 1967 VW Bus, which became so iconic it was featured on a Canadian postcard and postage stamp. If you've ever seen a Volkswagen Bus on Canadian mail, chances are—it was his. We also dive into the wild backstory of his latest project, a 1955 VW Kombi Bus with suicide doors and retro 1980s scallop paint. First spotted on Vancouver Island in 1987, the Bus went from a local treasure to a touring band’s rig, before AJ finally tracked it down decades later. AJ also tells us how the Four Stack Mafia got started and gives a preview of their epic Niagara Falls VW Campout, a pre-sh

What does NASA Volkswagens have in common Joe Varga. Known as Carbon Joe on Instagram Joe Vargas spent the last 16 years working on project X 37B with Boeing an unmanned working in Aerospace most of his life gave him a skill set of problem-solving up against just about anything. In the early 2000s of friends brother ask him to make some carbon fiber parts for his friends Drag bug. From then it's been on Joe's first car he still owns to thi this day. And he enjoys driving his super beetle convertible. With the goal of completing a German look ride soon he's totally into it. On this podcast, we talk about a lot about carbon fiber technology what is the difference between vacuum bagged with a clave without a clave auto clave this clave and every other type of clave. It's great to talk to someone knowledgeable about this type of process. That's also an enthusiast so there's lots of good information content if you're thinking about carbon fiber parts. Joe makes them on a specialty basis only remember, he's retired

Eric Justus grew up in Southern California, the son of a VW enthusiast Bill Justus. Bill was known for putting on some of the VW panic events in the mid 90s. Eric grew up with that as a foundation. Moving onto Street cars he obtained Type 34 ghia he decided he was going to make it a drag car. It was quite infamous in the early days as it was at Carlsbad Raceway quite a bit drag racing and he had that big type three moving pretty quick. After he sold it he took a step back for a little bit to fool around with some hot rods before jumping back into his 1955 window is incredibly detailed really fast. You can tell once you spot the kirkey seats that this thing is all business. We cover quite a few topics and it's more of a Freeform conversation in the middle but it's a great podcast. I know you'll love it. Enjoy.    www.letstalkdubs.com www.vwtrendsmagazine.com www.rosswulf.com Check out ICON Pistons here