The Spark Inside

“When people believe in you, it helps you to believe in yourself.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight speak with Charlie Martin, an endurance racing driver, LGBTQ+ rights advocate, and trailblazer in motorsport. Charlie shares her inspiring journey from grassroots hill climbing to competing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Series and chasing her ultimate dream: becoming the first transgender driver to race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Charlie opens up about overcoming personal and professional challenges, the mental and physical demands of endurance racing and how she’s working to make motorsport more inclusive through initiatives like Racing Pride. Her story is one of resilience, breaking barriers and proving that the path to success is one you can create for yourself.

Whether you’re a motorsport fan, an aspiring driver or someone looking for motivation to pursue your passions, Charlie’s journey offers valuable insights into courage, community and determination.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian’s Formula One trivia and Becca’s garage lessons

[00:06:19] Guest Intro: Welcoming Charlie Martin

[00:07:20] Early Inspirations: Hill climbs, grassroots racing and finding her passion

[00:14:18] Racing at Le Mans: Competing in the Super Trofeo and her vision

[00:16:52] Building Resilience: How boxing and meditation prepare her for the track

[00:20:53] Overcoming Challenges: Transitioning and staying true to her identity

[00:31:21] Representation Matters: Charlie’s work with Racing Pride to make motorsport inclusive

[00:33:46] Advice for Aspiring Drivers: “Find your tribe and follow your passion.”

Featuring: Charlie Martin

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

"Engineering is in everything - even in nature."

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight welcome Robert Stanger, founder of Motolearn and a lecturer in automotive studies. Robert shares his lifelong passion for cars, starting from six weeks old at his first Speedway meet, to performing clutch repairs at age 13, to teaching the next generation of automotive engineers. He reflects on his unconventional journey, the influence of his father and his ongoing mission to ensure traditional skills remain relevant in a rapidly evolving automotive industry.

Robert opens up about the importance of apprenticeships, the challenges of mental health in the industry and his creative teaching methods - which include classical music and hands-on demonstrations. This episode is packed with inspiration for aspiring technicians, engineers and educators alike.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian’s Formula One backstage experience

[00:06:58] Guest Intro: Welcoming Robert Stanger

[00:07:47] Early Days: Speedway Sundays and fixing clutches at 13

[00:13:53] Apprenticeships: The support and challenges of learning on the job

[00:19:13] Inspiring the Next Generation: Why nine is the magic age for learning

[00:21:29] Teaching Techniques: Making engines relatable through human analogies

[00:30:34] Mental Health in Automotive: Overcoming challenges and supporting students

[00:31:34] Advice for Aspiring Engineers and Educators: The importance of passing on skills

Featuring: Robert Stanger

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“My maths teacher told me I’d always be ten steps behind. That just pushed me to prove him wrong.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight talk to Charlie Keable, two-time Niterra Salesperson of the Year, about his journey through the automotive world. Starting with aspirations of becoming a Formula 1 mechanic, Charlie took a different path, working his way up from valeting and warehouse roles to leading sales for one of the UK’s top automotive parts suppliers.

Charlie shares the challenges and strategies of selling in a competitive market, the importance of building relationships, and the lessons he’s learned from his early career setbacks. He also dives into his passion for DIY van projects and classic cars, showing how his personal and professional lives are fuelled by a love for everything automotive.

Whether you’re considering a career in sales, love hearing about unique career paths, or just want advice on persistence, this episode offers plenty of inspiration.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Summer cars and favourite drives

[00:06:29] Guest Intro: Welcoming Charlie Keable

[00:08:01] From Valeting to Sales: A journey through the automotive industry

[00:10:03] Early Aspirations: From bodywork to Formula 1 dreams

[00:13:32] Building Client Relationships: Charlie’s approach to sales success

[00:23:53] Advice for Aspiring Salespeople: Thick skin and long-term planning

[00:27:03] The Spark that Ignited: Turning criticism into motivation

[00:29:13] Passion Projects: DIY van builds and family camping adventures

Featuring: Charlie Keable

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“Get stuck in, because you can’t be part of it if you’re not involved.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight talk to Phil McGovern, founder of Caffeine & Machine, a thriving hub for automotive enthusiasts. Phil’s automotive journey began in Coventry, the heart of the UK’s motor industry, where a summer internship at Jaguar’s engineering facility ignited his lifelong passion for cars. From there, Phil ventured into the Middle East, soaking up motorsport culture before returning to the UK to create one of the most inclusive spaces for car lovers.

Discover how Caffeine & Machine grew from a single coffee machine to a multi-venue community hub that sees over 35,000 cars each month. Phil shares how he welcomes everyone from Citroën Saxo drivers to Ferrari Testarossa owners and offers advice on finding your place in the automotive world.

[00:00:00] Introduction: What is a car meet?

[00:04:50] Guest Intro: Welcoming Phil McGovern

[00:05:45] Coventry Roots: Phil’s first steps into the automotive industry

[00:09:10] Founding Caffeine & Machine: The vision of inclusivity

[00:13:23] Building Community: Hosting 940 events annually across multiple sites

[00:22:45] Memorable Moments: From legendary cars to unexpected celebrity visitors

[00:28:11] Advice for Aspiring Automotive Professionals: The importance of showing up and getting involved

Featuring: Phil McGovern

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“There’s no point in being ultra-fit if your machinery isn’t great.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight delve into the world of high-speed motorsport with Chris Neville, Performance Specialist for Team GB Speedway. Chris shares his unique journey, starting as a professional footballer, transitioning into a conditioning coach, and eventually moving into the thrilling world of Speedway. He talks about the science behind improving rider performance, from physical conditioning and mental preparation to the crucial interplay of human and machine. Chris also offers insights from his time working with iconic athletes like David Beckham and reflects on how innovation and teamwork have driven success in both motorsport and football.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or curious about the intersection of engineering and human performance, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into what it takes to excel at the highest levels.

[00:00:00] Introduction: Cars, bikes, and all things motorsport

[00:03:14] Guest Intro: Chris Neville’s multifaceted career

[00:06:55] Speedway 101: A beginner’s guide to the sport

[00:14:40] Physical vs. Mental: The balance in rider performance

[00:16:34] Marginal Gains: Borrowing strategies from other sports

[00:23:58] Behind the Scenes: Innovations in Team GB Speedway

[00:24:57] The Future of Motorsport: Training the next generation

[00:28:14] Advice for Aspiring Sports Professionals: Find your niche

Featuring: Chris Neville

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

"Do whatever makes you happy. The only thing holding you back is you."

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight sit down with Louise Baker, founder of Womanic, an all-female garage in Birmingham. Louise shares her story of leaving a retail job to pursue her passion for cars and establish a business designed to break down stereotypes and make auto repairs accessible for everyone. As a single mother, Louise built her garage to be flexible, approachable, and empowering - offering a collection and delivery service tailored to busy schedules. She also shares the motivation behind her “Heels to Wheels” course, teaching essential car maintenance to people of all backgrounds.

This episode is filled with wisdom, resilience, and a genuine love for cars that shines through in every part of Louise's journey.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian’s F1 game show challenge

[00:04:46] Guest Intro: Welcoming Louise Baker

[00:05:21] Starting Womanic: From supermarket shelves to garage tools

[00:08:02] The Flexibility of Womanic: Running a business around family life

[00:11:19] Early Inspirations: Childhood memories with her father and first cars

[00:13:13] Breaking the Mould: Being a female mechanic and supporting women drivers

[00:14:01] Building Customer Trust: Transparent repairs and empowering clients

[00:16:44] Social Media for Inspiration: How TikTok and Instagram help spread the message

[00:25:51] STEM and School Talks: Inspiring the next generation of engineers

Featuring: Louise Baker

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“There was no other option. If I couldn’t do it the traditional way, I’d figure out my way of doing it.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight sit down with Jahee Campbell-Brennan, an experienced engineer and founder of Wavy Dynamics, as well as the COO of the non-profit organisation Driven By Us. Jahee shares his unique journey from being captivated by monster trucks as a child to founding his own motorsport engineering consultancy. He discusses his passion for vehicle dynamics, his role in making motorsport more inclusive, and how persistence and creating opportunities for himself helped him break into the highly competitive world of motorsport.

Jahee’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and passion for engineering, offering invaluable advice to aspiring engineers and motorsport enthusiasts alike.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian’s dream racing car

[00:07:08] Guest Intro: Welcoming Jahee Campbell-Brennan

[00:07:32] Early Inspirations: From monster trucks to performance cars

[00:12:58] Overcoming Barriers: Creating opportunities in motorsport engineering

[00:14:37] Life at Wavy Dynamics: Jahee’s engineering consultancy & trackside work

[00:17:34] Aerodynamics in Motorsport: How air is used to maximise performance

[00:18:40] Driven By Us: Promoting diversity and inclusivity in motorsport

[00:25:00] Advice for Aspiring Engineers: Persistence, self-belief & creating your own path

Featuring: Jahee Campbell-Brennan

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“The biggest thing is trust. If he tells me the car’s right, the car’s right.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight chat with Max Coates, a British racing driver who has carved out a successful career across various motorsport series, from his early days on two wheels to becoming a racing team manager. Max shares his early start in karting, the transition to car racing, and the vital role family has played in his journey - especially with his dad as his lead mechanic. Max also delves into the realities of sponsorships, how simulators are shaping the next generation of racers, and the importance of self-analysis for improving performance on and off the track.

Whether you’re an aspiring racer or simply passionate about motorsport, Max’s journey is a testament to hard work, determination, and a deep love for the sport.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Christian and Becca’s quirky car picks

[00:05:24] Guest Intro: Welcoming Max Coates

[00:06:19] Starting Young: From motorbikes to karting

[00:08:46] Making the Leap: Transitioning from karting to car racing

[00:12:37] Sponsorships: How to attract and maintain support

[00:14:08] Family in Racing: The unique dynamic of working with his dad

[00:20:17] Behind the Wheel: The highs and challenges of professional racing

[00:23:36] Self-Analysis: Max’s advice on becoming a better driver

[00:29:57] The Future of Motorsport: Media and the importance of visibility

Featuring: Max Coates

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd. 

“The only people who have beaten me since are General Motors and Elon Musk.”

In this episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight chat with Jonny Smith, a motoring journalist, TV presenter, and YouTube personality known for his work on Fifth Gear and his YouTube show The Late Brake Show. Jonny shares his journey from writing for car magazines to setting world records with his electric car, the Flux Capacitor. He discusses his passion for car modification, why he believes in embracing both piston and electric cars, and how he carved his own path in the automotive industry.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or someone exploring a career in automotives, Jonny’s blend of humour, knowledge, and experience offers inspiration for anyone passionate about cars.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Recap and British Grand Prix highlights

[00:07:47] Guest Intro: Welcoming Jonny Smith

[00:11:41] Jonny’s Journey: From magazines to television to YouTube

[00:12:43] The Future of Cars: Jonny’s vision of classic and electric cars coexisting

[00:17:01] Highs and Lows: Behind the scenes of Fifth Gear

[00:22:52] Advice to Aspiring Automotive Professionals: Persistence and apprenticeships

[00:25:07] YouTube and Social Media: How to build your presence in today’s digital world

Featuring: Jonny Smith

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd.

“You’ve got to be joking. You’re a girl. They’ll never employ you.”

In the debut episode of The Spark Inside, hosts Christian Hewgill and Becca Knight introduce listeners to the world of cars and motorsport, sharing personal stories and insights. This episode features an inspiring conversation with Charlie Broughton, the number one mechanic for Power Maxed Racing in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Charlie shares her unconventional journey from studying beauty to making her mark in a male-dominated motorsport industry. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or looking to break into the automotive world, this episode is packed with motivation and tips for finding your own spark.

Tune in to hear how Charlie kicked down doors to follow her dreams and why she encourages aspiring mechanics to “just go for it.” 

This is an episode full of passion, perseverance and love for all things automotive.

Key Moments:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Meet your hosts, Christian and Becca

[00:10:14] Guest Intro: Welcoming Charlie Broughton

[00:10:56] Early Motorsports Passion: From F1 fan to mechanic

[00:16:55] Breaking Barriers: Overcoming gender obstacles in motorsport

[00:22:04] Life as a Mechanic: What a typical day looks like

[00:28:13] Advice to Aspiring Mechanics: Charlie’s tips for newcomers

[00:29:47] Closing Thoughts: Encouragement for aspiring automotive professionals

Featuring: Charlie Broughton

Presented by: Becca Knight and Christian Hewgill

Episodes are released weekly and you can follow the Spark Inside on:

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Podcast Website: www.thesparkinside.co.uk 

The Spark Inside is an 18Sixty production brought to you by Niterra UK Ltd.

Introducing The Spark Inside, where we chat with guests from all corners of automotive world to ask what ignited their spark, discover more about what they do, and share advice on how listeners could follow their own journey into automotive field.