Backseat Driver

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/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

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 SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I reflect on the extraordinary life of Alan Stacey, a racing driver who overcame immense adversity to compete at the highest level of motorsport.I’m joined by Alan McGregor Stacey, who shares personal insights into his uncle’s life, character, and the lasting impact he had on the Stacey family. We explore Alan Stacey’s deep connection with Lotus Cars, his innovative mindset, and the determination that defined his racing career despite losing his right leg.The conversation also touches on the tragic events of the 1960 Belgian Grand Prix, where Stacey lost his life, and how his story has been remembered within the family over the years. Through these reflections, a picture emerges of a driver whose courage and passion left a lasting mark on motorsport.This episode is a tribute to a largely forgotten figure, ensuring that Alan Stacey’s story is recognised and continues to inspire future generations.Mentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

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.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

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/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I explore the magnificent alpine passes of Europe with my guest Louis Hendrickx, whose passion for driving and road trips has taken him across some of the continent’s most breathtaking routes.Louis explains how his fascination with alpine roads began with a chance discovery of a book dedicated to these legendary mountain passes. That moment sparked a journey which has since seen him travel across Europe in his BMW Z4, seeking out the perfect driving road and the unforgettable scenery that comes with it.We talk about the unique freedom of long-distance driving adventures and the growing car culture that surrounds these trips. From enthusiast gatherings to scenic driving destinations, the conversation celebrates both classic and modern cars enjoying the landscapes they were made for.This episode reflects on the art of driving in Europe, where the combination of skill, scenery, and great roads creates an experience that continues to draw enthusiasts back year after year.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I dive into the golden age of cinematic car chases from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s with Joe Pep.We begin with the legendary pursuit in Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen, a sequence widely regarded as the benchmark for every car chase that followed. We explore why that scene became so influential and how it changed the way action was filmed on screen.The conversation then widens to examine how these high-octane moments drew audiences into cinemas, from the raw, practical stunt work of earlier decades to the increasing reliance on digital effects and artificial intelligence in modern filmmaking. Along the way, I reflect on the cultural significance of icons like the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Charger, cars that became characters in their own right and symbols of their era.This episode celebrates the craft, the adrenaline, and the lasting cultural impact of the car chase, a cinematic art form that still gets pulses racing today.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

In this episode of the Backseat Driver podcast, we sit down with esteemed rally driver Simon Daly, who shares his deep passion for rallying—particularly his admiration for Skoda vehicles. Simon reflects on how his early experiences in motorsport, shaped by family influence, played a crucial role in his journey. He fondly recalls his uncles introducing him to the thrill of rallying, including unforgettable moments at legendary events like the RAC Rally. These formative years ignited a lifelong enthusiasm that has driven his career in the sport.Our discussion delves into Simon’s remarkable collection of ex-works Skoda rally cars, which not only showcase his dedication but also connect him to the brand’s storied motorsport heritage. As we explore the evolution of rallying, nostalgia and personal history take center stage, highlighting the craftsmanship and legacy of Skoda in the sport. Whether you’re a rally enthusiast or new to the world of motorsport, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the passion, history, and technical artistry behind rallying.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen Now Mentioned in this episode:Tarox BrakesSponsored by TAROX Brakes Engineered in Italy. Tested on track. Trusted on the street. TAROX performance brake kits deliver progressive feel, zero fade, and serious stopping power — all with show-stopping looks. 🔧 tarox.co.uk – Precision Braking Since 1976.

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Dr Steve Holden, whose love of cars led him on an extraordinary journey of more than 5,000 kilometres to the Arctic Circle and back in a humble Fiat Panda.Steve talks me through the motivations behind this ambitious adventure, including his decision to buy a far-from-perfect Panda and trust it to cope with some of the harshest driving conditions imaginable. We explore the modifications and careful preparation required to survive extreme cold, from mechanical reliability to planning every detail of the route.I dig into Steve’s experiences of driving in sub-zero temperatures, the techniques needed to stay safe on ice and snow, and the contrasts he observed in driving cultures along the way. Beyond the challenge itself, Steve also reflects on the trip's deeper purpose: to raise awareness and funds for Myeloma UK.This episode is a story of endurance, preparation, and determination, proving that big adventures do not always require big cars.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I take a closer look at the controversial legacy of the Chevrolet Corvair, one of the most debated cars in American automotive history.I’m joined once again by Joe Pep, who shares his insights into how the Corvair became both celebrated and criticised, particularly following Ralph Nader’s landmark book Unsafe at Any Speed. We discuss how these claims shaped public perception and had a lasting impact on the automotive industry.The conversation examines the cultural and industrial context surrounding the Corvair’s arrival, when American buyers favoured large, conventional cars. We examine how its rear-engine layout and increasingly European styling set it apart, and how those design choices contributed to its mixed reception in the United States.This episode reflects on the broader story of automotive innovation, risk-taking, and the challenges manufacturers face as consumer tastes shift.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I catch up with Paul Woodford to talk about his remarkable return to rallying since the pandemic. After stepping away from the sport for fourteen years, Paul explains what drew him back behind the wheel and how quickly things have escalated since.Paul walks me through the wide range of machinery he has driven recently, from classic Mini Coopers to purpose-built Dakar-style rally cars, highlighting just how varied and demanding his rallying journey has become. We also reflect on the current state of the sport, discussing where rallying has lost some of its character and what might be needed to reignite wider engagement.The conversation turns to the growing appeal of historic rallying, a scene that is attracting both long-standing competitors and a new generation of drivers. It offers a hopeful glimpse into a side of the sport that still values spectacle, personality, and accessibility.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I turn the spotlight on the extraordinary yet often overlooked career of Lella Lombardi, one of motorsport’s true pioneers and the only woman to score points in Formula One.Joined by Jon Saltinstall, I explore Lombardi’s life and career, from her groundbreaking achievements on the world stage to the barriers she faced competing in a sport dominated by men. We discuss why her story has so often been underplayed and what made her determination, talent, and resilience so remarkable.John shares the motivation behind writing Lombardi’s biography, aiming to restore her place in motorsport history and ensure her achievements are appropriately recognised. This episode reflects on Lombardi’s lasting impact and why preserving her legacy matters, not just for motorsport fans but for future generations inspired by her trailblazing path.___https://pod.link/1656058575Visit our sponsorsGAZ Shocks 116 TrophyHodder TyresTarox BrakesSAS AutosListen NowMentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Sam Grange-Bailey, a highly respected classic car dealer who shares her distinctive path into the automotive world.Sam talks about growing up in a family deeply rooted in car trading and how she helped evolve her father’s traditional business by embracing new technology and the early use of the internet. We explore how that shift changed the way classic cars are bought and sold, and how adaptation has become essential in a modern marketplace.I dig into the realities of the classic car trade with Sam, from understanding market values and spotting genuine desirability to balancing emotion with commercial sense. We also reflect on why classic cars continue to hold such powerful sentimental appeal for enthusiasts and collectors alike.This episode offers a thoughtful look at how the classic car industry has evolved, blending heritage with innovation while staying driven by passion.Mentioned in this episode:Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast SponsorsGAZ 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