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Backseat Driver

Backseat Driver

By: Mark Stone
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About this listen

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.Copyright 2026 Mark Stone
Episodes
  • Vintage Automobiles and Cinema with Nick Pagani
    Apr 26 2026

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Nick Pagani, who shares his extensive experience working with classic American cars in the film industry.

    Nick talks about his journey from a family repair business in the 1980s to becoming a trusted coordinator for picture cars on major productions. We explore the crucial role vehicles play on screen, and how they help shape the identity and authenticity of a film.

    I dig into the realities of working on set, where tight schedules and creative decisions can put pressure on both people and machines. Nick explains the challenges of dealing with directors who may not fully appreciate the significance of certain vehicles, and how that can sometimes put rare or valuable cars at risk.

    This episode also looks at how car culture in cinema has evolved, and what the future might hold as modern technology continues to influence filmmaking. It is a fascinating insight into a niche world where automotive passion meets the demands of the entertainment industry.

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    https://pod.link/1656058575

    Visit our sponsors

    GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

    Hodder Tyres

    Tarox Brakes

    SAS Autos

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    Mentioned in this episode:

    Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

    GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

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    45 mins
  • Tina Thörner's Extraordinary Career in Motorsports
    Apr 19 2026

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with Tina Thörner, one of the most respected co-drivers in motorsport, to explore her journey both within and beyond rallying.

    Tina shares how her career began, growing up in a family deeply connected to motorsport, and how that led her to work alongside some of the sport’s biggest names, including Colin McRae and Louise Aitken-Walker. She reflects on the defining moments of her career, from competing in the demanding Dakar Rally to becoming one of the first female world champions in the World Rally Championship.

    I explore with Tina how rallying has evolved over the years, the challenges modern drivers face, and what has changed in terms of competition, preparation, and mindset. She also shares her perspective on life after professional rallying and the new directions her career has taken.

    This episode is a celebration of an extraordinary career, offering insight into the resilience, determination, and passion required to succeed at the very highest level of motorsport.

    ___

    https://pod.link/1656058575

    Visit our sponsors

    GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

    Hodder Tyres

    Tarox Brakes

    SAS Autos

    Listen Now

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

    GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

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    38 mins
  • Inside the World of Tractor Pulling with Craig and Daniel Whittingham
    Apr 12 2026

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I head to Scorton to explore a major milestone for British motorsport, the staging of a Euro Cup tractor pulling event for the first time in England.

    I’m joined by Craig Whittingham and his brother Daniel Whittingham, who share how they brought this ambitious event to life under the banner of the European Tractor Pulling Committee. With competitors travelling from across Europe, the event marks a significant step forward for the sport’s profile in the UK.

    We dig into the world of tractor pulling, often described as the most powerful form of motorsport, examining the engineering behind these machines and the sheer forces at play. The brothers also talk through the challenges of organising an event of this scale, from logistics and regulations to building support within the local community.

    This episode highlights the passion, dedication, and teamwork required to grow a niche motorsport and the momentum building behind tractor pulling in the UK.

    ___

    https://pod.link/1656058575

    Visit our sponsors

    GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

    Hodder Tyres

    Tarox Brakes

    SAS Autos

    Listen Now

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

    GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
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