Backseat Driver

Mark Stone
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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.

  1. 2d ago

    Inside the Mind of a Champion with Derek Daly

    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 on the determination, setbacks, and defining moments that shaped his career. We also discuss the realities of racing at the highest level, including the fierce competition, the serious accidents that tested his resilience, and the lessons he carried with him long after stepping away from the cockpit. Beyond motorsport, Derek talks about his life after racing, including his work as a television broadcaster and motivational speaker, as well as his innovative idea for a motorsport-inspired toothbrush designed to encourage children to look after their teeth. ___ 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

    50 min

  2. Jun 28

    Revisiting the Tragedy of Bluebird K7 with Neil Sheppard

    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 relentless pursuit of speed, the engineering brilliance behind Bluebird K7, and the innovations that enabled him to break records on both land and water. Neil also examines the circumstances surrounding Campbell's fatal accident, challenging long-held myths and offering fresh insight based on historical evidence and modern analysis. The conversation also covers the remarkable recovery and restoration of Bluebird K7, the discovery of Campbell's remains, and the efforts to preserve his legacy through exhibitions and education. We discuss how the boat continues to inspire engineers, historians, and motorsport enthusiasts, standing as a symbol of British innovation and ambition. This episode is both a celebration of Donald Campbell's extraordinary achievements and a thoughtful examination of the risks, determination, and vision that defined his life. ___ 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

    43 min

  3. Jun 21

    The Allure of Shitboxes: A Rally Through England and Scotland

    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 driving ageing vehicles, the rally delivers exactly the kind of unpredictable adventure its participants embrace. We discuss the eclectic mix of machinery tackling the route, including everything from a Moskvich to a Volkswagen Golf, each bringing its own personality and mechanical quirks to the expedition. Along the way, the conversation highlights the camaraderie that develops when drivers face challenges together, turning every setback into another story to share. Beyond the breakdowns and repairs, we celebrate the incredible roads and scenery of the Lake District, where twisting mountain passes, dramatic valleys, and breathtaking views provide a fitting backdrop to the adventure. As the rally continues towards Scotland and Ireland, the anticipation grows for whatever lies around the next corner. This episode is a reminder that the true spirit of motoring is not about reaching the destination, but about the people, places, and stories collected along the way. ___ 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

    30 min

  4. Jun 14

    The Panda Rally: A Journey Through Morocco with Simon Nutter

    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 that make these events so memorable. The conversation also charts the evolution of the Fiat Panda itself, from practical town car to cult favourite among enthusiasts. Simon reflects on why the Panda has earned such affection from drivers and how its simplicity, character, and reliability have made it the perfect vehicle for offbeat motoring adventures. This episode celebrates the spirit of grassroots rallying, where the journey matters as much as the destination and where friendships, stories, and shared experiences often outshine the results sheet. ___ 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

    47 min

  5. Jun 7

    Bran DeMan: The Visionary Behind Shitbox Adventures

    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, where camaraderie, resilience, and shared experiences matter far more than horsepower or prestige. Bran explains what qualifies a car as a true "shitbox", how routes are planned across challenging terrain, and why participants keep returning for more despite the inevitable breakdowns and mishaps. This episode celebrates adventure motoring at its purest, where unreliable cars, questionable decisions, and unforgettable memories combine to create experiences that last a lifetime. ___ 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

    38 min

  6. May 31

    Special Brew: Racing Innovation in Africa with Rob Young

    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 racing cars through ingenuity, determination, and sheer mechanical talent. We discuss how many of these home-built machines not only reflected the craftsmanship of established European manufacturers but, in some cases, outperformed them on track. The conversation highlights a remarkable period of innovation and resourcefulness, where creativity often mattered more than budget. This episode shines a light on an underappreciated chapter of motorsport history and celebrates the resilience, ambition, and engineering brilliance of those who refused to let limitations stand in their way. ___ 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

    35 min

  7. May 24

    Classic Car Enthusiasm with Vic Piano

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Vic Piano, a lifelong enthusiast whose passion for classic American cars began with a single unforgettable encounter. Vic shares how seeing a 1940 Lincoln Continental as a child sparked a fascination that would shape the rest of his life. From that moment on, he developed a deep appreciation for vintage automobiles, particularly the craftsmanship and engineering excellence associated with the Lincoln marque. We explore Vic’s experiences collecting and restoring classic vehicles, including his father’s original Jaguar E-Type and several notable Lincolns. Along the way, Vic reflects on the artistry, innovation, and character that made these cars stand apart, while also sharing the personal stories and family connections tied to them. 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

    57 min

  8. May 17

    Rally Driving and Skoda with Neil Simpson

    It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Neil Simpson, a distinguished name in rallying and the driving force behind Simpsons Skoda. Neil shares his journey through the sport, from his early days influenced by a strong family connection to motorsport, to building a successful career both behind the wheel and in business. We explore the fascinating story of the Wartburg, a car that holds deep personal significance and ties directly to his family’s automotive past. I dig into how rallying has shaped Neil’s life, the challenges he faced along the way, and how the sport has evolved over the years. We also discuss developments in vehicle technology and the changing landscape of the World Rally Championship, offering insight into where rallying is heading next. This episode is a reflection on dedication, heritage, and the constant evolution of motorsport, seen through the experiences of someone who has lived it from multiple angles. ___ 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

    39 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Mark Stone
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    208
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Mark Stone
  • Show Website
    Backseat Driver