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PODCAST

Backseat Driver

Based in the north-west of England, former competitive driver Mark Stone moved into radio and motoring journalism after his competitive driving career came to an end in the late 1980s. Over the years, Mark has written for many of the well-known motoring magazines and made numerous TV appearances across Europe and is still an enthusiastic driver. In the Backseat Driver Podcast, Mark interviews prominent people from all over the world of motoring.

leisure automotive

All Episodes

41:39

Affordable Motorsports Watches Worth Buying

Backseat Driver ·

2026/10/04

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Hamish Robertson from the Watch Collectors Club to explore the fascinating relationship between motorsport and watches, and how the two have become almost inseparable over more than a century.With the practical role of timekeeping in early motoring, when dashboard clocks and specialist watches could be found in cars from manufacturers including Bugatti, Peugeot and Mercedes. From there, we trace the rise of the

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59:52

The Remarkable History of Rolls-Royce with Ruben Verdes

Backseat Driver ·

2026/09/27

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Ruben Verdes, a leading authority on Rolls-Royce and Bentley, to explore the remarkable history, craftsmanship and stories behind some of the world’s most celebrated motor cars.Ruben’s involvement with these marques stretches far beyond simply owning or admiring the cars. As a consultant, museum manager, concours judge, editor and treasurer of the Rolls-Royce Foundation, he has spent decades researching the

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47:46

Behind the Scenes of F1 Logistics with Steve Rendle

Backseat Driver ·

2026/09/20

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by author Steve Rendle to look beyond the drivers and cars and discover the extraordinary operation that keeps modern Formula One moving.Steve’s book explores the enormous infrastructure behind F1, where teams employing hundreds of people and spending vast sums of money ultimately have one objective: putting two competitive cars on the starting grid.We look at what really happens during a Grand Prix weekend, from the

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39:00

Are Modern Rally Cars Too Fast? With Dr. Beatty Crawford

Backseat Driver ·

2026/09/13

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Beatty Crawford, a hugely experienced figure in rallying, to ask some serious questions about the direction of the modern sport and whether World Rally Championship cars have simply become too fast.Drawing on a career that includes victory on the Circuit of Ireland and experience across some of rallying’s most demanding events, Beattie shares his concerns about the extraordinary performance of today’s WRC

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44:35

Ilkley Jubilee Rally with Joe Mallinson

Backseat Driver ·

2026/09/06

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Joe Mallinson, the new Clerk of the Course for the Ilkley Jubilee Historic Rally, to discover just what goes into organising one of Britain’s much-loved historic road rallies.Joe takes me behind the scenes of the event, explaining the enormous amount of planning required long before the first car crosses the start line. We talk about plotting the route, organising officials and marshals, keeping competitors and

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31:10

The Motorsport Influence on Watch Design with Ilias...

Backseat Driver ·

2026/08/30

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Ilias Strousidis, a racing driver and watch designer whose two great passions, motorsport and horology, have come together in a fascinating way.Ilias shares his journey through motorsport in his native Greece, from his love of BMWs to competing across different racing disciplines. We discuss the growing Greek motorsport scene, the challenges faced by drivers there, and his experiences at events including BMW Live

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48:32

Biker Granddad's European Adventure with Chris Allsop

Backseat Driver ·

2026/08/23

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Chris Allsop, affectionately known as the “Biker Granddad”, who at the age of 75 has set off on an extraordinary motorcycle adventure across Europe aboard his BMW F800GT.Chris shares what inspired him to get back on the road after a period when family health challenges had limited his opportunities to travel. With his freedom restored, he decided it was time for another adventure, setting his sights on the

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56:44

World of Land Speed Records with Louise Noeth

Backseat Driver ·

2026/08/16

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Louise Noeth, better known as “Land Speed Louise”, whose passion and expertise have made her one of the leading authorities on land speed racing.Louise shares her unlikely journey into motorsport, from growing up on the South Side of Chicago with little automotive influence to discovering a fascination with cars, speed and engineering. She reflects on the experiences and people who shaped her career, including

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42:59

NASCAR and IndyCar with Vic Piano

Backseat Driver ·

2026/08/09

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined once again by Vic Piano, whose passion for American cars is matched only by his remarkable knowledge of American motorsport.Together, we explore the fascinating worlds of NASCAR and the Indianapolis 500, discussing what makes these iconic events such an important part of American culture. Vic shares stories from his broadcasting career, including his role in helping introduce NASCAR to television audiences during its

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40:02

Adventures in Steam Traction Engineering with Andrew...

Backseat Driver ·

2026/08/02

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Andrew Mawdsley from the North West Vintage Machinery Club to discuss his remarkable journey into the world of steam traction engines.Andrew shares the story behind acquiring and restoring his beloved engine, affectionately known as Evening Star, and explains how a significant change in his personal life led him to embrace a passion that would become far more than just a hobby. We explore the dedication, patience,

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46:25

Mike Manns and the Chrysler Turbine Car

Backseat Driver ·

2026/07/26

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by the American author Mike Manns.Mike is a respected car restorer from Missouri whose lifelong passion for classic vehicles has led him to some truly remarkable projects.Mike shares the story of his family's deep roots in the automotive trade, stretching back to his grandfather's involvement in the industry during the 1920s. We explore how that heritage shaped his fascination with classic cars and ultimately led him

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45:35

The Decline of Iconic Automakers with Joe Pep

Backseat Driver ·

2026/07/19

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I welcome back Joe Pep for a thought-provoking discussion on the decline of some of Britain and America's most iconic car manufacturers.Together, we look back at legendary marques such as Jaguar, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Cadillac, and Pontiac, examining how corporate mergers, changing priorities, and shifting market demands altered the fortunes of once-proud automotive brands.We explore the rise and fall of British Leyland,

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40:32

The Rochdale Olympic and Its Legacy with Robert Ballago

Backseat Driver ·

2026/07/12

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at one of Britain's most intriguing and underrated sports cars, the Rochdale Olympic, with classic car enthusiast Robert Ballago.I first encountered Robert and his remarkable Rochdale Olympic at a Supercar Sunday event, where it stood out amongst far more familiar machinery. We explore the fascinating history of this rare British sports car, renowned for its pioneering fibreglass monocoque construction, a

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57:51

The Iconic Cars of TV with Joe Pep

Backseat Driver ·

2026/07/12

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I welcome back Joe Pep, better known to many as "Joey the Pencils", for a fascinating look at the iconic cars that helped define some of television's most memorable series.Together, we explore how certain vehicles became stars in their own right, often leaving a bigger impression than the actors behind the wheel. From the stunning Aston Martin DB6 and Ferrari Dino 246 GT to Pontiac Firebird Esprit, we discuss the cars that

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49:31

Inside the Mind of a Champion with Derek Daly

Backseat Driver ·

2026/07/05

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Derek Daly, whose remarkable career has taken him from the highest levels of motorsport to life as an author, broadcaster, and motivational speaker.Derek shares the unexpected story behind his autobiography, revealing how a chance conversation during a flight inspired him to put his extraordinary life into print. We look back at his journey from humble beginnings in Ireland to competing in Formula One, reflecting

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43:06

Revisiting the Tragedy of Bluebird K7 with Neil Sheppard

Backseat Driver ·

2026/06/28

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at the life, achievements, and final record attempt of Donald Campbell, one of Britain's most famous pioneers of speed.Joining me is Neil Shepherd, author of Donald Campbell and the Final Record Attempt, who shares his extensive research into Campbell's remarkable career and the events that unfolded on Coniston Water during his final run in the legendary Bluebird K7.Together, we explore Campbell's

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30:06

The Allure of Shitboxes: A Rally Through England and...

Backseat Driver ·

2026/06/21

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m once again joined by Bran DeMan for Part 2 of our adventure on the Lord of the Isles Rally, a journey that proves the best road trips rarely go according to plan.As we travel through the stunning landscapes of Cumbria, Bran and I reflect on the mechanical dramas that have already become part of the story. From a broken spring on Hardknott Pass to punctures, roadside repairs, and the constant uncertainty that comes with

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47:07

The Panda Rally: A Journey Through Morocco with Simon...

Backseat Driver ·

2026/06/14

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Simon Nutter to explore the wonderfully eccentric world of rallying in a Fiat Panda.Simon shares his experiences taking part in a variety of unusual and often challenging rally events, where adventure, camaraderie, and problem-solving are just as important as speed. We discuss the preparation required to turn a humble Panda into a capable rally companion, along with the navigation challenges and unexpected moments

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38:29

Bran DeMan: The Visionary Behind Shitbox Adventures

Backseat Driver ·

2026/06/07

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Bran DeMan, the man behind Shitbox Adventures, a company dedicated to taking unlikely cars on unforgettable journeys.Bran shares how the idea for Shitbox Adventures began with an ambitious road trip from Belgium to Mongolia in an ageing Lada, proving that adventure does not require an expensive vehicle, just determination and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.We explore the philosophy behind these events,

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35:20

Special Brew: Racing Innovation in Africa with Rob Young

Backseat Driver ·

2026/05/31

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I explore the fascinating world of Southern African motorsport with Rob Young, author of Special Brew: The Story of the Southern African Formula One and Libra Specials.Rob shares the inspiration behind his book and explains how his passion for racing history led him to uncover the often-overlooked stories of drivers, engineers, and builders across Southern Africa. Despite modest resources, these individuals created competitive

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223 results

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