"Karma" is the latest ground-breaking creation from Type 1 Restoration — Dennis Troggio's 1955 Lowlight Karmann Ghia that just captured the coveted Al Slonaker Award at the Grand National Roadster Show, the highest honor for non-roadster vehicles at the most prestigious indoor custom car show in the world.

This wasn't their first shot at Slonaker glory.

We get into the second attempt — and how lessons learned from the legendary "Turmoil" split-window Beetle (a build that redefined what was possible in the VW and hot rod world) shaped the philosophy behind Karma. Turmoil raised the bar. Karma shattered it.

The 1955 Lowlight Karmann Ghia is already one of the rarest early production Volkswagens ever built — the very first year of Ghia production. Owner Dennis Troggio was also hands on with this build. But this car goes far beyond restoration. Nearly everything on Karma has been re-engineered, re-imagined, or custom-machined from scratch. The list of untouched parts is shorter than the list of one-off components.

From custom-machined brake rotors carved out of solid cast iron, to intricate mechanical detailing throughout, no surface was overlooked. The interior, crafted by the world-renowned Recovery Room, is a masterclass in craftsmanship and restraint. Power comes from a 300 horsepower, full-race engine built by Doug Gonzales of RevMaster — a monster Type 1 powerplant that proves air-cooled performance belongs on the biggest stage.

Competing against multi-million-dollar customs and elite coach-built machines, Karma didn't just show up — it changed the conversation. This win is proof that when precision engineering meets vision, a Volkswagen can stand toe-to-toe with the best custom cars in the world.

We also talk about the evolution of Type 1 Restoration, the misunderstood builds, the favorites, the setbacks, and the relentless drive to keep pushing the envelope.

If history has shown us anything, it's this: the next build coming from their shop will redefine expectations all over again.

This episode is about craftsmanship, competition, redemption — and changing the game for Volkswagens on the biggest stage in custom car culture.

On this episode, Bill dives headfirst into One Crazy Weekend 2026 and what you can expect from what's shaping up to be the biggest, baddest weekend of the year. If you're planning to attend, now's the time to start saving, booking rooms, and getting mentally prepared—this one's going to be special.

Bill breaks down the latest updates, including the new Sunday Cool-Down Pool Party, presented by Spikes Restoration and Werk Restoration—a perfect way to wind down after a full throttle weekend of Volkswagens, friends, and late nights.

The episode also covers Bill's road trip to the Grand National Show, where he went to support the VW community and those competing for the prestigious Al Slonker Award. Congrats go out to Buddy Hile with One Restoration, who took home the top honors.

Rounding things out, Bill shares thoughts from stopping by the Doug Berg Memorial Celebration of Life, reflecting on legacy, community, and the people who shaped the VW world.

Packed with updates, stories from the road, and what's coming next—this episode sets the tone for an exciting year ahead. Enjoy.

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There's been a lot of noise lately about engine performance, dyno numbers, and expectations—and instead of adding to the speculation, I brought in someone who actually lives this stuff. This week, I sit down with Fred Simpson for a good conversation on cylinder head technology, porting and polishing, and how all of it really translates into horsepower.

Fred breaks down engine combinations, airflow calculations, and what kind of power you can realistically expect from different motor setups—while also being honest about the limitations he's run into over the years. We also get into camshaft technology and ask the big question: has cam design kept pace with modern cylinder head development?

To round it out, Fred shares his unfiltered take on exhaust systems—what works, what doesn't, and which designs he says flat-out choke an engine. If you're into engine theory, real-world results, and no-BS technical insight, this is one of those episodes you won't want to miss.

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