Behind The Wheel
Behind The Wheel:
A Toledo Jeep Fest Original Series
Behind the Wheel takes you beyond the vehicles and into the stories that make Toledo Jeep Fest special. Hosted by Toledo Jeep Fest Director Whitney Rofkar, this original podcast series explores the people, history, traditions, and community connections that have made Jeep part of Toledo’s identity for 85 years.
From local storytellers and Jeep enthusiasts to community leaders and festival organizers, each episode offers a unique perspective on what makes Toledo the Home of the Jeep and why thousands of people return each year to celebrate. Whether you’re a lifelong Jeeper or planning your first visit, Behind the Wheel will get you ready for Toledo Jeep Fest weekend.
Thank You to Our Sponsor
The Official Momentum Partner of Behind the Wheel is Toledo Refining Company—fueling Northwest Ohio for more than 130 years.
Episode 1
Home of the Jeep: Why Toledo’s Story Matters
Guest: Tedd Long
Local storyteller Tedd Long joins Whitney to explore Toledo’s unique connection to Jeep, from its military roots to its lasting impact on the city’s identity. As Jeep celebrates its 85th anniversary, Tedd shares the stories, people, and moments that helped make Jeep an American icon and Toledo its hometown.
Episode 2
Inside the Indoor Exhibit — Rare Builds, Personal Stories & Crawlers
Guest: Jerry Huber
Jerry Huber, retired Jeep Plant Manager, longtime Jeep enthusiast, and the driving force behind the Indoor Exhibit at Toledo Jeep Fest. Jerry has spent decades building, restoring, and preserving Jeep history.
Episode 3
Make It A Weekend: Camping, Community & Base Camp
Guest: Mike Keedy
Turn Toledo Jeep Fest into a full weekend adventure. Metroparks Toledo’s Mike Keedy discusses Base Camp, the festival’s unique riverfront camping experience, and why overlanders, families, and first-time visitors alike are making it part of their Jeep Fest tradition.
Episode 4
The Vendor Midway: Gear, Ideas, Music & Friday Night Energy
Guest: Keri Porter
Keri Porter pulls back the curtain on what it takes to build one of the biggest Jeep shopping experiences in the Midwest, organize more than 1,400 Jeeps for the All-Jeep Parade, and help create the Toledo Jeep Fest experience thousands of people look forward to every year.
Episode 5
Built on Community: Jeep, Mercy & Toledo’s Future
Guest: Matt Sapara
Matt Sapara explores the connection between Toledo Jeep Fest, community health, economic development, and the workers who built Jeep’s legacy in Toledo. From the Willys smokestack to the All-Jeep Parade, he shares why the festival continues to bring people together.
Episode 6
Fueling Toledo: Jobs, Community & Jeep Pride
Guest: Scott Hayes
Scott Hayes of Toledo Refining Company joins Whitney to explore the people, industries, and community pride that keep Northwest Ohio moving. From the refinery’s deep local roots and workforce impact to downtown activation, economic growth, and Toledo Jeep Fest’s connection to the people who build and power the region, Scott shares why celebrating Toledo matters.