Backseat Driver

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 and endurance racing.
Away from the track, Ilias explains how his frustration at being unable to find a watch that truly reflected his passion for racing inspired him to create Steel Timepieces. We explore how his experience behind the wheel influences his designs, with functionality for drivers sitting alongside distinctive styling and traditional watchmaking craftsmanship.
Ilias also takes me through the process of creating a watch, from the first sketches and prototypes to working with Swiss manufacturers on cases, movements and final production. Rather than chasing mass production, his focus remains on limited numbers, quality and creating something genuinely special for collectors and fellow motorsport enthusiasts.
We also look ahead to the Manchester Watch Show, where Ilias will showcase his latest creations and continue bringing together two worlds with far more in common than you might initially imagine.
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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 Carpathian Mountains, Moldova and some of the less travelled corners of Europe.
We talk about why Chris chose the BMW F800GT for the journey, balancing long-distance comfort with the agility needed for twisting mountain roads. He also explains what makes travelling by motorcycle so different from driving, from feeling more connected to the landscape to the trust required in both yourself and your machine when tackling unfamiliar roads.
Along the way, we explore the different attitudes towards motorcycles across Europe, the camaraderie between riders and why motorcycling is certainly not reserved for the young. At 75, Chris remains determined to explore new places, meet new people and collect experiences rather than possessions.
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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 legendary racer and designer Carroll Shelby, and how she eventually found herself immersed in the extraordinary world of the Bonneville Salt Flats.
We explore Louise’s work as a journalist, author and historian, documenting the remarkable people and machines that have pushed the boundaries of speed. She also discusses her commitment to ensuring the achievements of female racers and land speed record holders receive the recognition they deserve.
The conversation also turns to the future of land speed racing and the environmental challenges facing Bonneville. Louise explains why protecting the Salt Flats is so important, not only for motorsport but for preserving a unique piece of American automotive history.

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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 rapid rise in popularity throughout the 1980s.
We also look back at NASCAR's colourful origins, tracing its roots to the moonshine runners of the 1930s whose modified cars and fearless driving eventually gave birth to one of the world's biggest motorsports. Along the way, Vic explains the traditions, rivalries, and larger-than-life personalities that have helped build NASCAR's fiercely loyal following.
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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, and expertise required to restore and maintain a working steam engine, including the challenges of boiler inspections, firebox repairs, and the strict safety standards that come with operating these historic machines.
Along the way, Andrew reflects on the strong sense of community that exists within the vintage machinery world. From rallies and exhibitions to charitable events, we discuss how enthusiasts come together to preserve an important part of Britain's engineering heritage while sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences.
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