Russ Swift on Mastering Precision Driving Techniques

Russ Swift on Mastering Precision Driving Techniques

Author: Mark Stone December 4, 2024 Duration: 38:40

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of conducting an exclusive interview with Precision Driver Russ Swift from the comfort of his kitchen in picturesque Yorkshire. Russ graciously shared his remarkable journey from a motorsport enthusiast to achieving the prestigious title of British Champion in auto testing and ultimately ascending to global recognition as a renowned precision and stunt driver.

During our conversation, Russ delved into his early experiences in motorsport, initially starting as a navigator before discovering his true calling in auto testing—a fiercely competitive yet accessible motorsport format. He told us stories of how he honed his skills in mastering unique driving stunts, such as handbrake turns and driving on two wheels, which ultimately propelled him to success in commercial and film work. Russ recounted his involvement in a groundbreaking TV commercial in 1988, showcasing his exceptional talent and garnering a significant award at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival.

Russ shares insights into his rally driving experiences, the evolution of his stunt displays, and his collaborations with major car manufacturers on international stages.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

Listen Now

Mentioned in this episode:

Tarox Brakes

Sponsored 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.


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Backseat Driver
Podcast Episodes
Navigating the Vintage Car World with Justin Fellows [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:08
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Justin Fellows, a devoted enthusiast of veteran and vintage automobiles, best known for taking part in historic events such as the Lo…
Defending the Corvair: A Misunderstood Classic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:52
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 o…
The Rise of Katarina Kyvalova: A Rallying Phenomenon [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:39
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I speak with Katarina Kyvalova, a remarkable talent whose rise in motorsport has been as rapid as it has been impressive.Katarina talks about where…
The Resurgence of Classic Rallying with Paul Woodford [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:13
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 y…
Tony Shine: The Craftsman Behind the Ford Cortina Transformation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:20
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I dive into the ever-evolving world of automotive restoration and modification, with a particular focus on resto-modding, where classic cars retain…
Rediscovering Lella Lombardi with Jon Saltinstall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:20
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 sc…
The Story of Joe Pep, America's Car Illustrator [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:55
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I delve into the remarkable career of Joe Pep, one of America’s most celebrated car illustrators, whose artwork is inseparable from his lifelong pa…
The Journey of a Classic Car with Sam Grange-Bailey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:32
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 gr…
Inside the Mind of a Young Female Racer with Ashley Gregory [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:38
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I’m joined by Ashley Gregory, a formidable young talent competing in Mini Stocks and making serious strides as a female racing driver.Ashley talks…
Voices of Formula One: Alex Jacques [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:13
It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with Alex Jacques, a highly respected voice in sports commentary, to explore his journey into the world of Formula One broadcasting.Alex…