Lets Talk Dubs Classic The Classic VW podcast (Bill Tsagrinos)
Explore every episode of Lets Talk Dubs Classic The Classic VW podcast
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| 27 Sep 2024 | Ep 285 Andy Finch on Building Zorba The Ghia | 00:56:51 | |
Andy Finch From spikes VIntage restoration is in the studio. He has brought Zorba, the Ghia and his bus here to Las Vegas. For a couple weeks of fun in the sun. We discuss how the Zorba project started some of the challenges we ran into and as well a lot of the people that really helped in the build process. What he thought of my theme when we started. The bumps in the road as builder and customer, but the culmination of my ideas the spikes, vintage teams, hard work and the successful unveiling at George's Shop. It was definitely experience of a lifetime for me and to be able to have who I now consider a really great friend. Be able to build it for me in a record amount of time and debut it at my favorite Volkswagen event. ONE CRAZY WEEKEND. www.spikesvintagerestoration.com for the best how to Videos got to https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen | |||
| 05 Apr 2024 | Ep 262 Roundtable!Clubs, shows, Find Bill’s Bug. | 01:20:33 | |
Roundtable! On this podcast, Bill and George discuss YouTube channels, Instagram followers, upcoming events and much much more.
Also, Bill finds his Vin number for his original 1963 ragtop beetle that he would like to buy back any help would be much appreciated.
We talk about the problem with, il the VW scene is larger than just southern California. Why do some people not pay attention to that. People that post on Instagram just to be posting. The problem some people have with car shows today. Motivation to build cars where it comes from and what gives cars sentimental value.
www.thewagen.com | |||
| 15 Mar 2024 | Ep 259 Oldspeed's Russell Ludwig | 02:16:08 | |
Russel Ludwig is the owner operator of Oldspeed out of Paramount California. His shop has been in business since the late 80s. Starting as a source of income to get through college it turned into a business that filled a need in the Volkswagen scene. From buying and flipping cars at Pomona and giving them the "Oldspeed "look. Starting in the early 80s he seen it all in the Vw scene from days of the street races to building engines and cars for drag racers and gang members alike. His shop in Long Beach was neutral territory. His best friend Roland made for his first employee and they were together until Roland passed away. We get an insight to his early upbringing, his parents wanting him to be an accountant, and the draw that Volkswagens had on his desire to pursue his passion. Through the ups and downs oldspeed has been a constant. If you know Russel you know he give you the shirt off his back. A genuine guy and a great friend. A wealth of knowledge and always willing to share. https://www.instagram.com/oldspeedusa/ www.vwnos.com discount code LTD https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen https://www.youtube.com/@letstalkdubspodcast9361
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| 05 May 2019 | EP.19 Ron Flemming Interview | 01:39:32 | |
Ron Flemming is a long time VW innovator and engine builder. Ron is also a DKP member for the last 20 years. We talk about the early days of VW performance. Drag racing and car and people of this wonderful VW Cal-Look history. | |||
| 19 Nov 2021 | Ep 150 Bill & George answer listener questions | 01:17:53 | |
Its our 150th episode. Bill & George update on current projects. We discuss evaporust liquid rust remover. Lowering your VW which way we think we like best. wheel tire and stance questions. Perfomace upgrades for stock engines. Should you bench bleed your master cylinder. what oil should you use on your Volkswagen. and more good VW talk. Subscribe today | |||
| 30 Nov 2024 | Ep 294 Cory Mac's Race of Champion in Las Vegas with Brian Watts | 01:02:32 | |
This year December 7th is the first Cory Mac's Vegas world finals. Putting on a drag racing event is no small feat. Las Vegas motor Speedway is one of the premier tracks on the West Coast and to put on a Volkswagen event. There is a special thing. We have Brian Watts on the podcast today the promoter for this event and we discuss some of the details with, this car show Swap meet and drag race event. Without events like this, what happens to our hobby my suggestion is to promote and support these events. For more information click the links below. We also discuss with Jorge some of the One crazy weekend changes for this following year as well as the link for room reservations for 2025 for One crazy weekend.
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| 13 Dec 2024 | Ep 296 Vegas World Finals talk with Adam Wik Vito & Michael With BDRA | 01:07:32 | |
On this weeks episode, we discussed the Vegas world finals drag racing. I bring on Adam Wik to get a drag racers perspective on how the event went down and his impressions. Also, I give my thoughts and two cents on the dragracing community what they can do to come together and also what's gonna happen now that Irwindale is gone. After that, we get on the microphone from world finals in Las Vegas and discuss drag racing in Belgium with the Belgian drag racing Association representatives. We sit down with Vito Versluys and Michael Spiessens. Vito runs a Drag bug that's running quite fast into the tens second-quarter mile. We get how they started and how the Belgian drag racing Association came about. Also what it's like to race in Belgium versus what we have here in the US. cool guys, great story good podcast.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1575682792751616/ https://www.youtube.com/@letstalkdubspodcast
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| 04 Jun 2021 | Ep 126 Hot VW's Editor Shin Watanabe | 00:59:59 | |
Shin Watanabe is the Editor for Hot VWs magazine. He has a love for Volkswagens that started when he was just 4 years old. He then went on to get started in the Japanese magazine world covering the American car culture. His love then sent him to reside full time in the US. He, like all of us VW fans cant just have 1. This was recorded at the Bugorama 85 in Sacramento. | |||
| 22 Sep 2023 | Ep 235 Round Table Pre Show & Bill Goes world wide Air-Might | 01:44:52 | |
It Showtime!! Bill & George talk about OCW (One Crazy Weekend) Show details. Also Bill tells the story of his trip to Hawaii for the VW Club of Hawaii's Shaka VW show. The trip to Maui on the saturday for the Kruise For Kurt. Then Bill & his son head out for a flight to London then a 2 hour ride to Essex to Spikes Vintage restoration. They meet up with a 5 car caravan of top level show cars drive to an overnight ferry. The next morning off to the show a 2 hour drive in the Netherlands. 2 days at the Air-mighty show and some of the cars that are there. A great weekend that just gets better. Live your life. https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen
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| 24 May 2019 | Ep. 22 Jeremy Brooks Patina Cover Car & Bug Safari Builder | 01:13:56 | |
Check out our conversation with Jeremy Brooks from Loose nuts VW Fabrication. He builds Custom Safari windows for Bugs and other VWs.His website is here http://www.vwloosenuts.com Also he is the guy who broke the mold when his patina cars were published on the cover of Hot VWs magazine Check it out here..Cover Shot Here his story & dont forget to check out our facebook page Here https://www.facebook.com/letstalkdubs/& follow us on Instagram @letstalkdubs | |||
| 28 Jun 2019 | Ep 26 Dave Cormack formerly of VW Trends & Hot VWs | 01:43:41 | |
We talk to Dave Cormack former editor & Photographer for VW Trends & Hot Vws. Hear his story about Empi's Joe Vittone. Gene Berg, The rivalry between Hot VWs & VW Trends For the blog click https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog To support the podcast | |||
| 06 Aug 2020 | Ep 81 A Mexican VW Surf trip from Hell author Paul Wilson | 01:00:26 | |
Bad Karma is the book authored by Paul Wilsons incredible true story. A coming of age road trip story that is loaded with typical VW experiences and some not so typical characters. This is a VW story you wont want to mis. To near death & back. Sure you've experienced a break down but how about in the middle of cartel country? Just when you think it cant get any crazier it does. follow along Here for pics | |||
| 05 Mar 2021 | EP 112 Round Table Buying VWs | 01:43:16 | |
Baddest VW podcast | |||
| 27 Aug 2021 | Ep 138 Type 3 Talk with Paul Davis | 01:14:48 | |
Paul Davis has been a staple in the type 3 scene for years. His featured squareback in Hot VWs magazine June of 2016 is a real stunner. This year at El Prado he brought out his 80's style raspberry square back with a picture window & staggered rivieras. we also talk about rare 4 lug wheels. | |||
| 16 Aug 2024 | Ep 279 Has the VW scene gotten stuck? | 01:04:10 | |
Has the VW scene gotten stock? Are we seeing a lot of the same cars being featured at the shows focused on stock paint stock engines wheels lowered? Does it seem like people are more focused on keeping cars stock colors than doing custom. Are people building cars within guidelines of keeping it as close to vintage and original and resell Abel? On this episode, Bill takes a deep dive and we walk through his opinion of the evolution of the hobby since the early 80s. The different styles that have been prominent and where he sees a majority of the scene building cars. All of this to lead up with decisions made during the build process of Zorba the Ghia, if you think you've got an opposing opinion, feel free to email me at bill@let’stalkdubs.com www.vwtrendsmagazine https://www.twitch.tv/djricoradio
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| 06 Jun 2020 | EP 73 Ron Lummus racing | 02:04:26 | |
Ron Lummus has been involved in the VW drag racing world for over 30 years. He had developed many innovative products. His new design of a dual clutch that can be used on street applications as well as drag racing is the Rev 6 Clutch. From race suspension to full drag car builds Rons done it. Listen to his history where the VW drag world takes him on this episode. | |||
| 31 Jan 2020 | Ep 58 Bill & George talk Projects, Quality & Pre Purchase tips | 01:20:22 | |
On this episode we talk about our projects. Pre purchase tips, Our big Bug find in Arizona. Skating at an old age. We answer some listener questions. Why quality cost money and upcoming shows we will be at. See you at OCTO. | |||
| 06 Sep 2024 | Ep 282 Manx Lost Found More FB gatekeepers | 01:51:09 | |
After my podcast last week talking about a Myers Manx that I was posting up for sale I got an inbox message from Kenny Nash. Kenny referred me to his body Todd Cooper, who had a really great story on finding an all original one owner Max in the basement of a house in Virginia. When he tried to buy it from the original owner, it was a no sale. Things changed when the owner passed away. He left his good friend in charge of all the cars, but the buggy was supposed to go to an ex-girlfriend as luck would have it, Todd ends up with the car. It's a wild story and a cool project.
Also, we follow up on Bill getting flamed on a Face classified for Myers Manx Cars. When he post his 1969 titled series one makes up for sale. Bill has no problem getting attacked by the gatekeepers. But as fate would have it, Bill would soon be vindicated. We call out some of those Facebook people by name and we denounce their expertise in the Manx forums.
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| 10 Sep 2021 | Ep 140 Bad Razz builder Stanley Escolano | 01:29:22 | |
If you were at the VW Shows of the late 80s there's no doubt that you saw Bad Razz. 1955 raspberry beetle. It was a car to remember. you could even buy the shirt or the poster. Stanley breaks down the purchase, the build and why he picked raspberry. Why he stopped going to VW shows. His time in the ISCA circuit. The come back process. The Pics https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog | |||
| 18 Jul 2020 | Ep 79 Drag Racer Doug Gonzalez | 01:26:04 | |
Doug Gonzalez & Anthony Chica have been racing the Green Mamba with D&A racing. Starting from the bottom with used parts. To running 9.93sec ET in the 1/4 Mile. We talk about some racing classes & whats wrong with the racing scene. We go back to the battle of the imports time and how VW showed up and took titles. | |||
| 12 Jul 2019 | Ep 28 Bill & George Roundtable | 01:07:50 | |
On this Episode we talk about, the end of the Beetle, The new VW Bus chassis, Da New Hawaiian look. The Bullrun Bus gets some updates. How the internet and modern media has surpassed the power of print media and open the door for VW entrepreneurship. The Good and bad of internet started businesses. Bus Front suspension. Pros and cons and what the future holds for Bus suspension.
Get Lets Talk Dubs gear Here | |||
| 24 Mar 2023 | Ep 210 Rikki James & The fast barndoor | 01:00:09 | |
In the early 2000s while trying to figure out what to do with my bus and surfing the Internet I ran across a website called vintagebus.com. On that website was a gallery for people to upload pictures. I ran across Rikki James from England & his 1954 Right Hand drive barn door bus. This bus was sporting big power type 4 with a 2600cc 48 IDA's and Porsche five speed. This bus would serve as a template for me to build my first bus. Rikki's been ahead of the curve for a long time, an avid VW enthusiast and hard-core bus owner. You can sometimes catch him on the autobahn or the M25 in his right hand drive barn door hauling the mail. This bus is no joke and has been on the road since the early 90s! Listen to what it was like in the early days before there was disc brake conversions or narrowed beams and all the other parts and pieces that hes had custom-made for this barn door bus. Did I mention Rikki was doing patina before patina was a thing? He's a trailblazer at all things cool. Rikki James is a great guy.
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| 29 May 2021 | EP 125 Road Trip to 2021 Bugorama Live From The Road | 00:48:10 | |
Bill, George and Dunkle hit the road to the 2021 Bugorama for some hijinks and Volkswagen goodness. In this episode we talk about the "No Prep" road trip, the maiden voyage of the Kong Dong Trailer, Aliens, blowouts, road side rest stops, the best places to eat in Hawthorn Nevada and much more. | |||
| 07 Nov 2024 | Ep 292 Oldest Type 34 Karmann Ghia Restored with Lee Hedges | 01:17:15 | |
Restoring the oldest type 34 Karmann Ghia. In this month hot VW's December 2024 check out Lee Hedges oldest type 34 Ghia fully restored. It's the 11th Type 34 ever produced. This is the in-depth interview for tons of detail on the uniqueness of an early 1962 type 34 Ghia. These cars are really unique to begin with, but this one's even more special, being the first handful that came off the assembly line there were lots of other really unique parts and pieces for this car that make it very special. Who better to own it than Lee Hedges who is the foremost expert of type 34 Ghia has started the registry years and years ago and a guy who , He's helped the hobby in such a massive way and we always learn something when we talk to Lee Hedges
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| 04 Apr 2025 | Ep 310 The Devin with Read Kerlin | 01:11:11 | |
One thing I love about the VW world is there's never a dull moment and there's always something new. For example, the Devin this is the first time I've ever seen this car was at a type three rally meet up in front of ISP West that's when I got to meet Reid Kerlin . Reid is the owner of this Devin 295. It's called the Devon 295 because it cost $295 back in the day it was a kit car that was made for multiple different chassis for the ultimate enthusiast that wanted to build their own sports car on this podcast we get into some of the history of the Devin as well as Read's personal history in the VW scene. He's a great guy and this car is even cooler. Like most of us with his life, starting in a Volkswagen that his parents owned and loving the car itself with the pursuit to find something unique. He stumbled across this Devin. It's a very cool car one of the few that has a type three motor in it has a matter fact it's the only one that he knows of the registry is keeping track of some of these, but Bill Devin, who started the company in 1954 wasn't very good at keep records. You could even buy stuff from him up until not long before his passing a true innovator always looking to help the sports car enthusiast DIYer.
https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog/ep-310-the-devon-w-read-kerlin | |||
| 29 Dec 2018 | EP. 1 Lets Talk Dubs | 00:21:48 | |
Volkswagen air-cooled talk with weekly interviews In this episode: This episode is the introduction to the new Volkswagen podcast "Let's talk dubs" with Bill Tsagrinos. This introduction will tell you about some of the things this show has to offer and a background of Bill.www.letstalkdubs.com | |||
| 26 Feb 2022 | Ep 163 GNRS Burly Burlile | 01:04:36 | |
This episode we catch up with Burly Burlile. We discuss the Cal-Look Diagram. The 32 Duce kit for the VW he designed. The story of how it got away then he bought it back and who owns it now. We also talk about Mexican beetles. Driving a brand new air cooled VW. Lots of history here. | |||
| 13 Jun 2020 | Ep 74 Roundtable Trades Deals & Scams | 01:49:02 | |
Roundtable this episode George T & Erik Dejong we talk about your best deals & worst deals. Erik builds his own engine. We talk about street racing, driving with out a clutch. and lots more stuff. support the podcast https://www.letstalkdubs.com/store.html | |||
| 31 Jan 2025 | Ep 302 Buyer beware! Auctions Private sales & Brazilians | 01:06:16 | |
On this weeks episode we discuss some buyers guide topics. Also, the cars that have gone through Barrett Jackson recently and how that's going to affect the current market and future market of particular models specifically the $85,000 notchback. Show updates for this summer, East Coast, West Coast and UK. And what's the deal with Brazilian buses or Brazilian cars in general. We discuss what to expect when you buy a car from Brazil. Why the cars in Brazil are the way that they are. And is there really a free lunch where you can get a 23 window or a double cab for half price, and it meets your expectations? All this on an exciting episode with Bill & Tory Alonzo we also discussed a few Facebook posts that are going down a rabbit hole all in good fun. See you this weekend at the Grand National Roadster Show. https://www.youtube.com/@letstalkdubspodcast https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen
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| 13 May 2022 | EP 166 Dave Conklin The Corn-panzer | 01:40:05 | |
Dave Conklin is a VW & Porsche journalist & enthusiest. Started when he was just a kid at the young age of 13. His 1969 bug was the first car project wiht his father. Finding a hot VWs magazine in 1980 he was hooked on the cal-look since. He helped moderate the Cal-look top 10 fastest cars. Since then its been a wild ride with his VW story. Find ut what its like to be a cal-look guy in the mid-west. | |||
| 21 Jun 2019 | Ep. 25 Bus Talk with David Heard SOTO President from 88-99 | 01:18:12 | |
On this Episode we talk with David Heard. David currently puts on 3 shows in the Bay Area. Bus Fest, Bug Bash & SOTO meet. David has been an influential force in the VW Bus scene for quite some time. We talk about what happened to SOTO the challenges of being a club president & getting out of the scene then going all in with 2 New events! Its a great history lesson on the 80-90's bus scene and great stories! Sit back and enjoy! for the bugbash click HERE for SOTO click HERE | |||
| 11 Dec 2020 | Ep 100 Eric Geisert VW Trends & Street Rodder | 02:03:36 | |
Eric Geisert grew up in southern California the heart of the VW scene. Taking a yearbook elective would tun into a world of photojournalism and magazine editing. We discuss the influance of magazines on cars & cars on the magazine. He's a renown photographer. Wining several industry awards. We discuss what it was like growing up in the heart of it all. Going from VWs to Hot Rods to VWs. Check out his website Here Follow him on instagram Here Support the podcast Here Subscribe to our youtube Here | |||
| 12 Mar 2021 | Ep 113 80s Round table with Bob Daniels Tory Alonzo | 01:09:16 | |
Baddest VW posdcast Worldwide | |||
| 13 Aug 2020 | Ep 82 The lost Race Shop drag bug With Dean Kirsten | 01:15:02 | |
https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog/ep-82-found-the-race-shop-drag-bugFrom 1974 through part of 1975 The Race Shop owned by Darrel Vittone campaigned a 1967 Bug that set a few records while he was waiting for his Fiat to be rebuilt. This car set records for almost everyone who owned it. It is a significant car in the history of Darrel Vittone & VW Drag racing. Dean Kirsten has been following this car for over 20 years. Find out its history & where its been hiding this entire time. https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog/ep-82-found-the-race-shop-drag-bug | |||
| 15 Jul 2020 | EP 78 Project Therapy's Kevin Nagatani | 01:17:46 | |
Kevin Nagatani has created some cool VW accessories. He's an industrial designer and has a VW passion. He's turned that passion into a small but cool accessory business. Check it out here https://www.etsy.com/shop/ProjectTherapyDesign | |||
| 25 Sep 2020 | Ep 88 Deluxe Customs Matt Howard | 01:28:28 | |
Matt Howard has been a staple in the Arizona VW Scene. His history started in the mid 80's. Then his cover car & hard earned recognition for his Arizona Looker Dec 1991 Hot VW's magazine. Then several cars vintage and custom since then. Working at Dinos paint he sharpened his skill set. Now with his shop Deluxe Customs He has built a reputation in the 356 community . His story of the car builds & SEMA cars that he's had on display. If you're ever in Tempe Look him up. His website https://deluxecustoms.com/ Our sponsor https://rosswulf.com/
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| 08 Dec 2019 | Ep 50 my 67 Bus story and 2020 Giveaway | 00:38:03 | |
I tell the story of how & where I found my 67 Deluxe. The details of how I decided what details to put into it. I announce the 2020 Bug Giveaway. Next year is gonna be great! | |||
| 14 Jan 2022 | Ep 157 GabFab Danny Gabbard | 02:14:19 | |
Danny Gabbard is a Master metal fabricator. Cutting his teeth in So cal welding steel flares on 80's Porsches. His VW passion has had him specialize in making Tools & parts for the VW community. From door pin tools to hand built replacement sheet metal. He's the guy that did the steel deck lids with the Empi scoop. Check out his parts on www.thesamba.com | |||
| 19 Mar 2021 | Ep 114 Brian Arends supa lowbus | 01:01:45 | |
Not only does he drive a @Supa_lobus, but Brians building a legit Type 34 ghia. We sit down with Brian Arends talk about his VW story. aget some updates on his next projects. He's a hands on guy that does his own welding. It also helps when you're buddies with Justin from @volksfab. Follow Brian Here Support the podcast & buy merch HERE | |||
| 25 Jul 2019 | EP. 30 Chris Vallone Classic VW Bugs Restoration shop | 00:58:18 | |
East Coast Shops We interview Chris Jr & Sr about their restoration shop in Congers NY. They restore mostly vintage original restorations. He has a large youtube following Click Here We talk about how they started the business and where they're headed. Check out their website https://www.classicvwbugs.com/ | |||
| 24 Nov 2022 | Ep 192 3 guys one race | 00:54:38 | |
In the final episode of podcasts recorded at fast 4 cartel blitz at the beach. I did two short podcast one with Paul Gelinas who has some history back from Bakersfield in the mid 80s hanging around Steve Knechts shop Volks Werks. He helped chop up the jow Future Shock. I thought it was really interesting to get a perspective from an enthusiast that was seeing things from a third-party perspective. He also has been featured in Hot VWs in 2010. The second podcast that we have on here is Mike Preston and John Limnios house both guys that are racers amateur racers and bring their car out to all the fast for cartel events as well as the Sacramento drags. They build their own stuff. John roast a mean pig at the F4C events. 2 great friends and fast VWs. Happy Thanksgiving. if you need custom shirts or hats made go here https://www.ulogoup.com subscribe todayhttps://vwtrendsmagazine.com Get quality VW parts here https://rosswulf.com | |||
| 22 Mar 2021 | Ep 115 VW Trends is Back Dan Leadbetter | 01:11:12 | |
Lets talk dubs has the exclusive.The boys are back in town! VW Trends is back, and you have an opportunity to be on the Trends Train. Dan Leadbetter, Paul Morton, Rich Crafton & Ron Petro is the new team a the helm. Listen to find out how you can be a part of this re-launch. Why they decided to bring it back. What to expect form the new magazine. Time to get ready for a new type of magazine experience. Follow VW Trends | |||
| 01 Jan 2021 | EP 103 NYE Roundtable | 01:43:56 | |
On this roundtable We welcome friend & fellow VW enthusiast Stephen Hartlauer. Bill George & Stephen discuss favorite episodes highlights from the year 2020. What our New Year VW resolutions are. We pick our favorite Hot VW covers of 2020. We also remember some of those who passed on this year in the VW scene. Happy New Year
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| 24 Nov 2023 | Ep 244 Jeff Patterson Type 4 Revolution | 01:11:31 | |
Jeff Patterson is with Type 4 Revoulution. Hes your east coast type 4 guy. WIth a back ground in the military being trained in helicopeter manitinance. His love for working on VWs comes from a need to fix his own cars. He loves type 4 engines. We discuss the type 4 engine pros & cons. While stationed in Germany he was able to access cool type 4 upgrades for his Super Beetle. While he was in town for the SEMA show we were able to connect & sit down & do a podcast. | |||
| 23 Dec 2022 | Ep 197 2022 Year end wrap up | 01:21:20 | |
Bill ,George & Tory Alonzo review 2022. We walk through the year of podcasts & events that happend this year. From the GNRS, to the SEMA and much more. The poeple we interviewd some of our favorite podcasts. Which cars made an impression on the scene. We talk about some people we lost. Some crazy events that happend. A lot of good VW talk . | |||
| 22 Dec 2023 | Ep 248 VW on the Power Tour and more | 01:42:43 | |
Bill discusses his Power Tour experience. What you should do if you decide to do the power tour and the good and bad of it. George and Bill discuss a letter that we received critiquing the one crazy weekend. It goes over some positives but more negatives than anything else and we address all the concerns for last year's event only to bring you a more exceptional event in 2024. George gets completely heated and loses it when he's accused of picking his friends cars for trophies. George is a man of integrity and I'm saying this as a hold a gun to my head. https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen
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| 17 Dec 2021 | Ep 153 James Sopher Ohio Show promoter | 01:19:35 | |
James Sopher is an Ohio VW enthusiasts who is committed to the hobby. From way back in high school till today. He has been involved in the Ohio scene for quite a while He also puts on the "bug infestation" VW show at Geneva at the lake. We also talk about finding cars in Ohio and what the scene is like in the mid-west. | |||
| 24 May 2024 | Ep 268 the story of Auto Haus with Ron Rosevear | 01:40:06 | |
Autohaus! The name that is synonomus with VW aftermarket parts. Started by Ron Rosevear in 1968. Starting as a small stereo shop in Buena Park California. Ron decides to buy some chorme VW accessories and they started selling like hot cakes. We find out about thier business stratagies. Who drew the world famous logo. How they started as a parts re-seller and then on to a VW empire with brands like Race-trim and fiberglass manufacturing. The connection with Paul Schley. Armorall and so much more. A business pioneer with a vison to teh future. Theres also a connection about Micky Thompson. The first VW Trends magazine with their 40 page catalog included. Bruce Meyers ex-wife tries to get him to make some kits of the Manx SR. So many stories you'll love the history and behind the scene to our hobby.
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| 27 May 2022 | Ep 168 Berlin Buick Rob Freeman | 00:53:47 | |
The Berlin Buick was at the grand national roadster show in the gathering of Hot VWs display. It is by far one of the nicest done mid-engine conversions I have seen. The quality of the build the fit & finish as well as the body mods that have been done to such a high level. it's a car that must be seen to appreciate. Look at pictures Here Support the podcast, register for one crazy weekend or find out what we are all about https://www.letstalkdubs.com sponsors https://vwtrendsmagazine.com
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| 25 Oct 2019 | EP 44 Dean Kirsten 38 year Hot VWs Photographer | 01:21:57 | |
Dean Kirsten worked at Fleming & Aronson High performance, then Hot VWs magazine from 1977 to 2015. We discuss his history, His career at the magazine. His thoughts on magazines today. The competition with VW Trends and the demise they saw coming. His facebook is Here Follow along the blog companion Here | |||
| 28 Oct 2022 | Ep 188 Widebody Buses Kenny Pfitzer | 01:02:40 | |
Kenny Pfitzer is no stranger to the VW world. Starting back in the 80's his VW bus "wet Dream" was on the cover of VW trends 1995. It was one of the cleanest buses around. $7000 in chrome and detail to the max. Kenny's had a long career working for concept car builder IAD West coast, Metal Crafters, Foose, West Coast customs as well as his own shop. Now Kenny runs his own place Kenny Pfitzer Design. they will build anything you want. From muscle cars to widebody buses. If you can think it, he can build it. In this podcast we learned about his VW history. With help from his dad building his first car to building world-class vehicles and Riddler winners Kenny's done it all and has a great story. These buses will be all the talk of SEMA! Host Bill Tsagrinos Audio engineered by Ryan Knecht https://kennypfitzerdesign.com
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| 11 May 2022 | Ep 165 Where's Bill Been | 01:19:26 | |
Bill has disappeared for the last 2 months. On this podcast, we find out where he’s been. Abducted by aliens? Taken by Big foot? Mexican prison. Find out here. | |||
| 31 May 2024 | Ep 269 Update: Shows to attend, Zorba the Ghia, Cal-look Caravan & More | 01:29:58 | |
On this episode, George and I discuss the upcoming show season Southern California which events we will be at. We discuss Zorba the Ghia and Spike's Vintage Restoration process with the restoration. Its moving fast for sure. Bill almost has the interior re-done due to camera Color That's taking place. We reach out to John Limnios, the winner of the real Street class for the Volks group race in Samoa. 900 hp drift widebody bus being built by Kenny Pfitzer. Lots of cars coming down for one crazy weekend this year. We also discuss a special trophy for cars that will be debuting at one crazy weekend. Is George going to trade his bus for a stock 58 single cab? We talk about Bill's trip in the next few weeks to the UK for the Cal-look Caravan 2024 that's gonna go from bad Camberg to Chimay Belgium. We also review a few of the podcast that just came out John Maher, Ron revere Russell with old speed and more. We read some listener emails and also of course give some shot outs. its a fun episode.
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| 27 Oct 2023 | Ep 240 Rob O'Rourke's Amazing type 34 | 00:58:47 | |
When you see a Type 34 Ghia they are a work of art. When this Italian designed car meets an interior to match, You get the Ghia we have here. Rob "Rourky" O'rourke is a man with an eye for style. He's raised in the trade of coach trimming (2nd generation). His father started the business and he worked for him eventually taking it over. He is quite a character. In his daily life he works on Ferraris, Lamborghini's & Jaguars. Using his knolwadge of the classic coachtrimming from the golden era of racecar, he blends these styles together. On his Type 34 he brought this all together. From the bronze knobs, to intergrated lights, and lets not for get the brass work. If you meet him, you'll remeber him always. I know I will, and I look forward to seeing anything else he builds. A true craftsman with incredible talent. Check out the talent of his team on thier YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/@OrourkeCoachtrimmers
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| 03 Mar 2022 | Ep 164 Karmageddon Lance & Marty with MAS motorsports | 00:28:20 | |
Lance Mcdonald & Marty Salerno have been good friends for quite a few years. What do you get when you want to stand out at the drag strip? How about a Type 34 Ghia? Now thats cool! Marty & Lance with MAS motorsports have been campaining this car since the car througout the county since the 90's. Sitting down at the Grand national Roadster Show we get the scoop on this incedible race car. It is for sure one to behold. great guys and a great story. | |||
| 21 Feb 2019 | Ep.11 Roundtable Bill, George T & Scott talk about VW's | 01:17:58 | |
This episode we talk about LVVWC March meet. We talk about shows, Judging & coming up in the scene. How hemet Scott, Top 5 Rules on preparing to restore a car. LVVWC FB Link if you like what you heard or you don't CLICK HERE TO COMMENT OR FEEDBACK | |||
| 09 Sep 2022 | Ep 183 Mike Lawless Drag Racer DRKC Champ | 01:13:47 | |
Mike Lawlwess got hsi first VW in 1969. Building VW's since then had been his passion. Marriage and kids came along and he put his racing on hold. After his kids got a little older he decided to get back into drag racing VW's. Because it was cheap! You would know his VW 1965 karmann ghia its been a staple VW at all the drags since 1999 and early 2000's. Starting in the 13's he chipped away at it year after year. Deciding to up his game he talked to the judges about how he could better his car. He puts in the work and starts to become a real contender. Eventually he won the Der Renn Kafer Cup class 2 years in a row. His Ghia is still on the track now Piloted by his son Mark Lawlwss. Hs car was the test bed for several develpments by CB perfformance from Traction bars to EFI. Bus box U-joint conversions this car is an Icon in the VW scene. | |||
| 13 Aug 2021 | Ep 136 Andy Finch Spikes Vintage restoration UK | 01:53:41 | |
This episode we go across the pond to Essex England. Starting before he could drive his electric blue 1302 beetle was his first conquest. Putting in time with auto body shops he worked his way from laborer to Shop Manager for one of the highest quality restorers in the UK. Like most of us we are a bit too determined to do things our way he found him self no choice but to kick start Spikes Vintage restoration. Since then the the UK scene has not been the same. | |||
| 06 Jan 2023 | Ep 199 Red E Motorsports Eric Allred | 01:09:10 | |
Salt Lake City in the house this week on the podcast! Eric Allred is the owner of Red E Motorsports in Salt Lake City. Eric's been a long time drag racer and has been in the VW scene in Salt Lake for 20+ years. His commitment to the hobby was so great he decided to open up his own shop a few years back. Putting it all online to see if he could make his passion work as a hobby. From Dino tuning, engine building, and general work on your VW. Eric loves the Volkswagen hobby and you can tell his attention to detail is as meticulous as his shop. From 356s to turbo kits to anything and everything he does all of this in his small shop with one other guy. On this podcast we go into a bit of a deep dive on the holly sniper EFI set up for your VW. What Eric does to make those work and some of the details behind it. We also discuss racing at the salt flats turbo cars and other fun VW stuff. Great episode enjoy… Check out his youtube channel.https://www.youtube.com/@red-emotorsports1212 https://www.facebook.com/RedEMotorsports Support our sponsors
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| 15 Sep 2023 | Ep 234 Hawaiian Builder Allan Yee Owner of "Tickled Pink" | 00:32:06 | |
Hawaiian Builder Allan Yee has been into Classic Air-Cooled VWs since the early days. In the late 80's he built a well known car. A car refered to by its name. Tickled pink. That car went through a absolute unbelivable life. Even being set on fire in Allans Garage. At the 2023 Shaka VW show thats put on by the VW Club of Hawaii Alan had 2 cars he built on display. A 1966 VW Fast back and 1974 VW Thing. some super unbelivable cars. Top quality cars built in Hawaii. A great podcat about one of Honolulu.
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| 03 Mar 2023 | Ep 207 Richard Guraino Empi of New york | 00:43:03 | |
Richard Garaino owned competition foreign car parts in New York. After seeing the interest in Volkswagen beetles aftermarket parts he reached out to Joe Vittone and became an authorized EMPI distributor in New York. He didn't just sell parts and bring to the people of New York the high-quality aftermarket performance parts of Empi of days gone by. He also raced the inch pincher three a really cool 1952 beetle that set plenty records and upset lots of people in the dragstrip. | |||
| 05 May 2023 | Ep 216 Early type 3 details with Lee Hedges | 01:18:20 | |
The type three Variant & Sedan (Squareback & Notchback) was the car that was debuted at the 1961 Frankfurt auto show in order to develop a new upgrade level vehicle for people that wanted to upgrade from the Beetle. In the early years of the type three there were a lot of one year only and earlier only design attributes. In this podcast we break down all of the early details that are known to be on 63 & earlier type three's. Today on the registry only 75 early pre-1963 & earlier type threes are registered. Maybe the type three is the hidden gem of rarity that not a lot of people know about. We once again turn to our type three resident expert Lee Hedges for an in-depth review of specific to early type three details. This is very informative and lots of information even if you're not into type threes you'll enjoy this podcast.
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| 11 Jan 2020 | Ep 55 East Coast Kurt Mezger VW Engine Builder | 01:38:49 | |
Kurt has been a staple in the east coast for performance engines through his shop Vintage performance. You should remember his VW Trends cover April 2004 with his 1968 10 second Beetle. We talk about turbo engines. How he builds them and what he likes for engine combos. Enjoy! | |||
| 20 Jul 2019 | EP 29. Bob Lacoste From the Compound DBK | 01:05:54 | |
Bob Lacoste is part of the Trio at the compound. He puts a lot of work into the stunning cars that come out of the compound. The mega detail. We talk about the OCD that it takes to get that detailed. His history in the VW scene working for BFY and staring his own shop before coming to the compound.To see the stunning work they do click Here We also talk about his super clean black square back that was featured in May 06' Hot VWs
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| 25 Nov 2022 | Ep 193 Roundtable Nov 2022 | 02:16:56 | |
It's been a while since we've done a roundtable episode. On this show George and Bill review what's happened over the past few months. We talk about one crazy weekend, OCTO, and more. We call up across the pond and talk to our homeboy and the finch from spikes vintage restorations. We discuss what the experience was like how the one crazy weekend fairs to other shows that he's been to. We discuss the Las Vegas VW club cruise we did, what it's like to eat at an old saloon built in the 1900s. We talk about Facebook marketplace ads for sale read some of the comments and have a few laughs. Maybe discuss a few project updates. Enjoy! | |||
| 25 Jul 2021 | Ep 133 Type 4 Secrets Tom Slider | 01:30:35 | |
Selecting an engine platform come with a a lot of questions. Do I go type 1 or type 4? Do you want high revving or big torque? One of the sites I got some basic info from was https://www.type4secrets.com This site has lots of information to help you make your decision. Tom is from So. Cal and has moved to Wyoming. He's spent lots of time researching type 4 parts & pieces. This podcast will give you an overview of what the type 4 advantages are. Book your room for one crazy weekend here Support the podcast here | |||
| 17 May 2019 | Ep. 21 Pete Skiba Airkewld | 02:00:58 | |
Pete Skiba started Airkewld over 18 years ago. He's the longest running VW Air suspension guy in the game. Bringing his influence from the mini-truck scene is sometimes taboo in our hobby. He's got a great story. Check it out here, only on Lets talk Dubs. Pete makes great quality parts. You'll know why after listening to this podcast. Like our Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/letstalkdubs/
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| 22 Nov 2024 | Ep 293 The VW 1500 Type 3 History | 00:29:03 | |
On this episode, we discussed the history of the type three 1500 better known in the US by the models the square back, the notchback and the type 34 ghia were never officially imported to the United States. This podcast will give you a summarized history of VW's purpose behind designing the type three 1500 the reasoning behind it and what went into producing this car. In addition to those fun facts, you'll also get to hear a lot of specific details that make the type three different than the type one also, stumbles across a bunch of reviews that he's never read from overseas and goes through a half dozen reviews so if you never heard your shot out, you'll get your shot out today. So if you love VW history, you will love this podcast.
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| 07 Jul 2023 | Ep 225 Bill Goes racing with Johnny Osmondson Medford Showdown 1 Report | 01:03:54 | |
Bill, Brandon and Johnny head to Medford Oregon for The Volks Group summer showdown 1. This is the first event put on by The Volks group and man what an event this was. Of course it was what the Medford (nor cal) group normally does which is much love and aloha thanks to Tom Kinny and the Kinny kitchen. The whole group up there is fantastic and I can't say enough about them. We bring the gray car Johnny's 62 up for the first time he hits the track a boy do things happened. We had an exciting fun filled three days. Plus Bill brings out his drag car that has been sitting for the past 10 years that he purchased one year ago and put it on the track. Hear all about it. No PRep racing at its finest. LOL To see the gray car run check the links below and go watch Johnny Ron in Irwindale, Tucson, or Casa Grande. | |||
| 21 Feb 2020 | Ep 61 Joe Horvath from Revmaster | 01:11:52 | |
Joe Horvath started Revmaster in 1959. He hired Dean Lowrey & Lee Leighton at EMPI. Then moved on to start Revmaster. He's invented many different innovations in the VW work that we all benefit from today. Great Guy & Legend. Revmaster today makes VW aviation engines and 3.0L Race engines. | |||
| 26 Feb 2021 | Ep 111 Ed Fox & his Bare metal bus | 01:13:21 | |
Ed Fox's bare metal bus debuted at the VW classic with a twist. Being in bare metal he thought it only fitting to make a splash with a few bondage girls in the back. It certainly made a splash to say the least. He's a photographer by trade and good enough to have two books. Ed fox & Ed Fox II. He tells his story and how he came up with the idea of the bare metal look. He also has a unique a-arm front suspension & spindle-mount wheels. His upcoming video projects will be VW related as well. Follow his instagram Here His website Here The Blog page Here | |||
| 25 Oct 2024 | Ep 290 Brian Hyerstay 8.43 / 1680cc fastest VW powered G Dragster | 01:39:51 | |
Brian Hyerstay G Dragster has a 1680cc engine revs to over 10,000 RPM & has a best ET of 8.43. And thats with NO POWER ADDERS. Brian has been involed n VWs since his first Bug in the early 70's. Since then hes raced his 1962 Beetle that hes owned since then. He then switcehd over to a Manx buggy for drag racing. When he reched the pinnacle of that, he bought a used G-Dragster and started his journey up the ranks of Competition Eliminator. His 1680 CC has custom builr cylinder heads, an overhead cam, fuel injection, all off of a stock case. Hes racked up over 20 Wally's the covedted NHRA award for any racer. Brian is pusing the envelope with this 1680cc engine. He also ha a 1977 348 RWH street beetle in all stock trim. Can you say SLEEPER. Come meet him December 7th at the World Finals in Las Vegas. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/g6DkTQNAhEyM1h3c/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Brian-Hyerstay-racing-engines-100062928716496/?_rdr https://www.facebook.com/groups/1028580878239828
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| 13 Apr 2024 | Ep 263 Rick Mortensen Phoenix Bug or Rama Founder | 01:37:42 | |
Rick Mortensen has been a VW enthusiast for over 50 years. His love started in northern California in the late 60s. Building his first cow look car in the early 70s. He has a love for all things early style col-look.  on this episode we discussed his history moving from Northern California to Phoenix, Arizona. Starting the Phoenix Bug o rama. The original Bug o rama in Sacramento, He used to fill-in when Dyno Don wasn’t available as an announcer. We discuss the varied vehicles that he’s had and his cover car from 1996 Cal-look edition Hot VW‘s magazine. His Chop Top Bug and Numerous other cars he’s had throughout the hobby. Cool stories about driving his 2276 from Arizona to Michigan to the VW factory and his friendship with Gene Berg and much more. | |||
| 09 Jun 2023 | Ep 221 Bill & George Talk Id Buzz & Octo weekend | 01:20:20 | |
ROUNDTABLE!!! We discuss the ID Buzz debut, OCTO weekend & the ISP west. Some of the cool cars we saw plus the barndoor gathering. Type 3's visiters from Belgium Future Shock. Whos going to Medford?????
https://vegasvolks.podbean.com/
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| 18 Feb 2022 | Ep 162 VW collector & Enthusiast Russell Ritchie | 01:26:58 | |
Russell Ritchie is the name, collecting & preserving VW history is the game! He's been a committed enthusiast since he was a small lad in Scotland. Seeing Herbie the love bug in the theater with his father lit the fuse that has evolved in to what is now an intense passion for the VW hobby & history. From the pages of the magazine to real life. He and his team of VW friends have restored & preserved some of the most Iconic Gasser & Drag racing VWs from the 60's and on. This passion as now turned to early restoration care as well. He has in his collection, the Arronson Holmes 63 "Cal look" bug. A re-creation of Bill Schwimmers Pepto Squareback. Gassers and drag cars for days. He's a genuine great guy who would give you the shirt off his back and trade it for some rare VW parts LOL. All kidding aside he's one of US! A die hard enthusiast that's memory has been impacted by the magazines & history of our hobby ! Enjoy | |||
| 18 Apr 2025 | EP 312 Nicole Johnsons Detour from Youtube | 01:53:50 | |
Nicole Johnson has a lot of Motorsports experience and she's got an excellent YouTube channel called Nicole Johnson's detour. You probably have seen one of the videos her most popular is a 500 horse powered Subaru sleeper Bug. That video, her first one has over 10 million views. Since then she's built a Youtube channel where she seeks out unique cars to feature on her show, her motto is "I wanna drive everything". Last week (if you subscribed her channel parentheses which you should), you would've seen Zorba the Ghia featured on Nicole Johnson's Detour. My 1964 type 34 Karmann Ghia. This week we talked to Nicole and get all of her history. She actually raced 1600cc cars at one time. We talk about the process it takes to film the videos the way she looks for cars and trying to build a unique channel on YouTube. Lots of cool talk and if you're interested automotive shows this is a great one to listen to. Nicole also is known for her racing monster trucks for monster jam. She was a driver for the Scooby Doo monster truck. With a long history and rock, crawling, and offloading how she got selected to do that was pretty awesome. Go subscribe to her YouTube channel today it's worth it. Nicole Johnson, Monster Truck Pilot, King of the hammers winner, Car lover & youtuber
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| 18 Oct 2019 | EP 43 EV West's Micheal Bream electrify your VW | 01:50:15 | |
Micheal Bream is the founder & owner of EV West. They are the premier Electric conversion Speed shop. They sell all the components to convert your VW to full electric. we discuss cost, Performance, range & the limitations of an EV conversion to your VW. Check out his website Here EV West youtube channel Here | |||
| 04 Dec 2020 | Ep 99 Luftkraft Fabrication | 01:28:37 | |
Mark Brant & Kris Godwin being long-time friends took their passion for custom vintage race inspired cars from a part-time Hobby to a full-time business. Blending their 2 unique styles and building bold and most importantly drivable vintage cars. They love Porsches & Volkswagens and Vintage race inspired look. From special refinishing to using titanium metals on custom fabricated steering wheels. Make sure to check out their site here https://www.luftkraftfab.com/ their insta https://www.instagram.com/luftkraftfabrication/?hl=en | |||
| 31 Mar 2023 | Ep 211 Gavin Jones Trailer Queen Restorations | 01:06:23 | |
On our continued British invasion from Volksworld 2023 show. Trailer queen restorations Gavin Jones on this episode. Starting out with his first VW in the late 80s he cruised around in a pretty cool convertible super beetle. Later moving up to some of the early year VW's with his Bahama Blue 64. He tells a legendary story of how he left his last job for sake of family and trailer queen reostorations is born. Trailer queen Reostorations is Just He and his Wife doing a family business. Gavin does some of the top paint work in the UK. He's painted some of the cars that you would know. Hes painted The Cal-look 63 rag top, The Pepto Squareback T3 Detectives all black sqaureback, Barnoor 23 widows. If you've had any issues of volksworld you have seen his work. We talk about some splitwindow details. Hes OCD whenit come to paint and detail. Check out his work on his FB page links below. https://www.facebook.com/trailerQueen https://trailerqueenrestos.com/ | |||
| 18 Jun 2021 | Dial a cam gear Mark Kuttner | 00:42:03 | |
What I love about our hobby is that if you want to build a better part. Have at it. Thats where I met Marc Kuttner. While I was walking through the swap meet I met Marc. He has a passion for performance & being an engineer by trade, he made a dial-a- cam gear. His parents were from Germany & that started his trip down the VW path. His 59 Beetle has a 2110 built variable vane turbo so he knows performance. We go deep in cam gear talk. Buckle up & hang on for this podcast. | |||
| 17 Feb 2023 | Ep 205 Best Magazine Cover of 2022 | 01:27:07 | |
https://www.youtube.com/@the_Wagen https://www.youtube.com/@letstalkdubspodcast9361 On this episode of Bill and George break down the magazine covers of 2022 and pick their favorite covers from Volksworld, Hot VW's VW trends and Volksmania magazine. We also discussed some customer service issues with the new weld through primer metal. Project updates for Bill. How happy I am with what I have so far for the hydraulic suspension.? Also update on what George is working on. Zorba the Ghia, which car should i sell? | |||
| 20 Aug 2022 | Ep 180 Fred Simpson Perfromance Technology | 02:11:18 | |
Performance Technology is a name in the air cooled VW that is synonimous with some of the fastest cars on the track. The man responsible for this is Fred Simpson. Fred started out working for VWOA as a factory trained technician. He loved to race his car but found his niche in cylinder head fabrication and building. He eventually came out with the SHO VW cylinder head. We go deep in engine information and there's lots of info for you gear heads. We also talk about Andy & Tommy Costello and his german auto drag car. He still does some work today. Check out the link to his facebook page here
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| 25 Aug 2023 | Ep 232 Squeeg’s Kustoms Doug Jergers | 01:17:56 | |
Squeege's Kustoms is one of Arizona's peimere hot rod shop. They've built dozens of top notch hot rods over the years. Doug Jereger who took over for his Dad Squeege. some time ago started Just out of high School he moved to Phoenix from Ohio. Working for his dad was not easy. His Dad got him interested in VWs. He built his first VW back in Ohio. In his early years his pinnacle acheavment was getting his 1956 Bettle on the cover of Hot VWs August 1989. With All the custom work & Hot Rod details it was a show stunner. In 1989 It was ahead of its time. Doug has built a few cars that have been in the runnig for AMBR (Americas Most Beautiful Roadster)in 2011 Doug won with Daryl Wolswinkel's 33' ford. If youre looking for custom paint or a full build Squeeges can get it done. Hes got a great story. Check out his site https://www.squeegskustoms.com/
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| 21 Aug 2020 | Ep 83 Finding the D&S Coupe with Lloyd Kee | 01:24:06 | |
when a 1 of 1 coach built car surfaces on the VW scene what happens? Who get the call & what does it take to get it. The Dannenhaur & Stauss coupe is one of a hand full built and the only one known to exist. This could be the most rare coach built VW in the world. | |||
| 20 Apr 2019 | Ep. 17 Lanny Hussey Canadian VW Builder & Guitarist in Trailerhawk | 01:33:28 | |
We discuss with Lanny about his Builds, where his inspiration comes from, His upcoming car he will debut at the DKP meet this May/June, the Canadian VW scene & His band Trailerhawk. Great music give them a listen here..Trailerhawk youtube His facebook page for cars Lanny Hussey Custom Cars Tailerhawk FB page Tailerhawk FB Page Like them both!!!! | |||
| 09 Feb 2024 | Ep 254 Mark Akullian Hot VWs 2024 Cal-look Cover car | 01:34:51 | |
Is this the ultimate Cal-look tribute car. The California look with something that started in the late 60s early 70s in Southern California. For the past few decades, there have been lots of tribute cars and some have gone over the top and some have chased every specific detail down to the last Lucas turn signal. Mark Akullian has been in the Volkswagen scene since he was 13 years old which means over 30 years he's been in the Volkswagen scene. He's no stranger to magazine covers in April 1988 his 1957 beetle was on the pages of Hot VW's magazine. This yeay His 1961 beetle graced the cover of Hot VW's California look issue. That about sums up the goal when building a cal-look car. This car's been in the making for dozens of years with the slow collecting of every part and piece to build what Mark felt was the perfect California look Beetle. 2387 cc engine dual 48 Idas. Custom hand fabricated deck lid, (all steel) to replicate the EMPI fiberglass deck lid from back in the 60s. Porsche 356 brakes and original EMPI steering wheel. Those are those are just a few things, to name the dozens of customizing thats been done to this car to pay the ultimate tribute to the most popular Style that seems to never run out of favor with the crowds. Great story for a great car.
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| 22 Mar 2024 | Ep 260 Pat Downs Performance | 01:08:43 | |
Pat Downs Has been building perfromance motors for the last 35 years. He was the main engine builde rat CB Performance for 30 years. On this episode we discuss what was the reason he left his last emolyer. What life has been like starting your new career in your mid-50s. What his expectation was and how it's turned out so far. We also discuss several new product lines. He's bringing to market the problem with main bearings and the solution. And we can't have this conversation without talking about drag racing. Pat also owns the ECPRA Pro Stock record at 5.90 seconds. 1/8th mile. That's right 5.9 seconds all motor no power adders that's very impressive. We also discussed the challenges and building performance motors today . Pat also went down to Texas versus the world and we talk about what happened that weekend. https://patdownsperformance.com www.vwnos.com use code LTD need a supercharger click https://kompressorhaus.co.uk "lets talk dubs" for discount
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| 19 Feb 2021 | Ep 110 Demon Motorsports Ryan Lowther | 01:12:22 | |
Some people like static some people like airbags, both leave a little to be desired. Demon Motorsports has an on demand hydraulic suspension for your VW. Fabricator Ryan Lowther builds a custom hydraulic suspension which allows you to adjust your ride height while always retaining your stock spring load. It's manufactured here in the USA. They also offer available true rack & pinion steering. Sit back & peel back the onion as we go deep into what makes this kit so cool! | |||
| 02 Jun 2022 | Ep 169 2022 VW Classic Weekend is Here | 00:52:11 | |
Bill & George are hyped for the VW classic Weekend. It kicks off Thursday night with the VW Trends founders party. Friday afternoon wirth Pierside parts open house Followed by DKP cruise night at Main St in Garden Grove. Satruday is OCTO in the AM then RVA Show then an open house at ISP West. Sunday is the VW classic at the Orange County Fairgrounds. We talk about what George has been up to at his shop & What Bill has broken or destroyed. | |||
| 10 May 2024 | Ep 266 Full TUBED SQUAREBACK Illegal Speed Shops Harrison Evans | 00:57:49 | |
Some projects are more extreme than others. When buidling a custom VW, how far do you go? Well, if its an all out project and you team up with illegal speed shop prepare for it to go crazy. This project started as a brainchild of one of their customers that laid dead in another shop for about 10 years. It was put up for sale and when Harrison saw it, he reached out to the owner to talk about the project and he ends up, convincing the owner to bring it to illegal speed shop and get that project finish. Already started on a full frame down the center, they went forward and full tubed the whole car moving the seats back for the driver who 6 foot eight. This thing has it all 400 hp TDI motor. Six speed manual transmission, C6 front brakes and cantilever rear suspension. Harrisons' a hard-core VW guy and we also talk about his 64 Beetleand some of the cool ways that he slammed the living crap out of it and drove it static. Check out their YouTube channel on the link below and give them a follow on Instagram. I believe these guys will be around doing some cool stuff so be on the lookout. https://www.illegalspeedshop.com https://www.youtube.com/@Illegalspeedshop https://www.instagram.com/illegalspeedshop/
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| 02 Nov 2019 | Ep 45 Flat Four Media Alex Arredondo | 00:58:21 | |
Alex Arradondo is one of Hot VWs premier photographers. He has changed the game with his dual exposure & studio style photography. His close connection to the DBK Compound has given him the opportunity to debut some unbelievable rides. Alex is also not new to the game. His first magazine debut was in Hot VWs may 1987 with Bad Temper II Check that out Here | |||
| 04 Jan 2019 | EP.2 Buddy Hale interview pt 1 | 00:24:21 | |
In this interview we talk to Buddy Hale owner of Type 1 Restorations out of Tempe Arizona. Buddy has built some of the most detailed Volkswagens in the air cooled VW scene. In this episode we learn how Buddy got into VWs, and how he started painting cars. Also some of his favorite VWs that pushed him to a higher level of detail... | |||
| 27 Dec 2024 | Ep 298 FULL CUSTOM IAN ROUSSEL | 01:25:39 | |
an Roussel is a passionate VW enthusiast, artist, hot rod builder, and a true jack-of-all-trades. If something stays still long enough, Ian will find a way to transform it into something extraordinary—often with a creative nod to hot rods. Fans of the show Full Custom Garage will recognize Ian as the master builder behind some of the wildest custom car creations out there. Known for his unorthodox approach, Ian doesn’t follow traditional rules. Instead, he uses his imagination and resourcefulness to turn everyday, overlooked materials into unique automotive masterpieces. In our conversation, we explored what inspired Ian to move to the West Coast, his first impressions upon arriving, and the driving forces behind some of his most memorable builds. Now that Full Custom Garage has ended, Ian continues to share his artistry on his YouTube channel, Full Custom Ian. As a VW enthusiast through and through—and a creative soul who builds without fear of judgment—Ian deserves the support of our community. Be sure to check out his channel, subscribe, and show him some love. Ian is one of us, and his dedication to freedom and artistic expression is truly inspiring. Keep doing your thing, Ian!
https://www.youtube.com/@fullcustomIan Subscribe to his channel and support Suppot our sponsors MAGAZINE COVERS http://99wspeedshop.com/vwtrends.html
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| 22 May 2020 | Ep 71 Steve Hole Bugformance & Bugorama | 01:37:31 | |
Steve Hole with help from family & Will of course! has been involved in the VW show scene for over 30 years on the west coast with their family started VW show series with Bugorama. They soon were the premire VW show circuit for a decade or more. With shows in Sacramento, Irvine Ca, Phoenix & Las Vegas. He and his family & friends have created events that have created opportunities for our VW families to grow outside of our city. We get his history & back story to all of these events. | |||
| 04 Dec 2021 | Ep 151 Bus Collector Lind Bjornsen | 02:00:14 | |
Lind Bjornsen is the Columnist for Hot VWs Transporter Talk. He is an avid bus collector and super enthusiest to say the least. With a collection of buses of about 9. His most collectable is his famous SüdFunk Bus. a 1950 VW "Barndoor" bus. One of the oldest buses on the road today. And on the road he goes. With Porsche 356 brakes & engine this bus is no slow poke. This is one of the oldest buses in original paint. topics vary from collectibles to rarity and everything in between. Podcast sponsors
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| 31 Mar 2019 | Ep.15 Aaron Broughton interview | 01:48:52 | |
Aaron Broughton, From Foothill Fabrication & F2 Supply. Aaron’s diamond green oval window was one of the first cars to set the benchmark for the attention to detail. He & Ryan Reed had 2 super clean devisating cars that came out in 2003 VW Classic. It was a February 2004 Hot Vws cover car.Click here to see his Car | |||
| 07 Feb 2025 | Ep 303 Round table This summer show season GNRS, Diesel Heaters and more | 01:09:05 | |
On this episode, Bill and George discussed this summer's show season. The Vw revival what's that all about and is it going to emulate the VW classic weekend. I give my thoughts on the difference between the two and what me from an out-of-towners perspective really enjoyed about the original classic Vw weekend. We also discussed the new VW's magazines some surprises that we've seen in there are things changing in the scene? Hopefully so a little more variety is never a bad thing. Bill takes Zorba to the roadster show for the granddaddy drive-in having his car compete against 1000 other cars outdoors and let's see the results also George recaps buses by the bridge diesel heater before and after and more fun stuff to chat about on this weeks episode | |||
| 09 Mar 2020 | Ep 63 Claus Missing Hebmuller Registry & Early Karmanns | 00:58:27 | |
Calus Missing is one of the administrators of the Hebmuller Registry & early Karmann convertible sites. Hes a wealth of information. If you wanted to know about Hebmullers & early Karmanns here it is. | |||
| 09 Dec 2022 | Ep 195 Chuck Beck builder of the Beck 550 Spyder | 01:42:19 | |
Chuck Beck loved racing, he was building tube frame cars while in the SE Pacific testing Atom bombs. When he got out of the air force he built a one good VW out of a 46' & 53 wrecked beetle. He would build whatever he could. He liked racing so he bought a Devon kit car and started that build. He made a chevy powered racecar. His first car he started making a mold from was a Porsche 910 before he could build one he came across a 550 car that his customer let him make a mold from. That began the legend known today as the Beck 550 Spyder. While he was building the first one, a magazine photographer comes to his shop and takes pictures of his 550 replica. From there the rest is history. His current 904 Porsche is quite a legend itself at 1500lbs and 450hp . Its a great story of a man who went from Air Force to building cars in his garage to working for Shelby as a fabricator. Leaving Shelby to founding partner in FUNCO the company that builds sand cars. Hes done it all. | |||
| 23 Sep 2022 | Ep 184 The Fastest street racing bug? Johnny Osmundson | 01:10:05 | |
Street racing has been going on for years. Recently there has been a resurgence with TV shows like street outlaws and 1320 Video. Johnny Osmundson has been making a name for VWs on the no prep steet world. His Strret bug is a 1965 Blue Right hand drive with a 1915 Turbo with a full polished 48IDA on a draw through set up. His 1962 primered drag bug is his first car. The car sat for year then he finallly started to build it for the street. Hes been on 1320 Video & TX2K. He has been representing the VW scene in a major way. His Bug is running fast How fast? 5.30 in the 1/8th @ 136mph. Recently he went on Hoonagans VS it was Hondas V Haters and the outcome was less than desireable. https://www.letstalkdubs.com/blog/ep-185-johnny-osmundson | |||
