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Backseat Driver

Mark Stone

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.

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  • 23 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 42 min
  • English

Episodes 23

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  • April 19 · 38 min

    Tina Thörner's Extraordinary Career in Motorsports

    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. ___ Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Brakes Listen Now

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  • April 12 · 35 min

    Inside the World of Tractor Pulling with Craig and Daniel Whittingham

    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. ___ Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Brakes Listen Now

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  • April 5 · 35 min

    Sophie Hayter on Vintage Transport and Aerospace

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Sophie Hayter, whose career spans both the automotive and aerospace industries, with a lifelong passion for historic machinery. Sophie shares how her fascination with steam traction engines began through her family, particularly the influence of her grandfather and the heritage of engines associated with Eastnor Castle. We explore how that early exposure developed into a deep appreciation for the engineering and stories behind these remarkable machines. Beyond steam engines, Sophie talks about her own Land Rover and her professional role overseeing landing gear and undercarriage maintenance in the airline industry. She explains the extraordinary engineering behind aircraft landing gear and the strict standards required to keep aircraft operating safely. This episode connects the worlds of historic vehicles and modern aviation, celebrating the craftsmanship, engineering, and personal stories that keep mechanical heritage alive. ___ Visit our sponsors GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy Hodder Tyres Tarox Brakes Listen Now

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Showing 21–23 of 23 episodes