London, 20th February 2025 – In an exciting move that pushes the boundaries of both automotive culture and female empowerment, Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform, has launched its highly anticipated podcast Women in the Driving Seat today, Thursday 20th February. Hosted by Erin Baker, an award-winning motoring journalist, divorced mum of two, and Editorial Director at Auto Trader, this groundbreaking series offers listeners a unique window into the lives of extraordinary women who have reshaped the world of motorsport, with each episode blending personal narratives and professional triumphs.
The first episode features two powerhouse guests: Nathalie McGloin, FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission President, and Vicki Butler-Henderson, racing driver and the first female presenter on BBC’s Top Gear to drive a car sideways. Their conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of being women in motorsport, touching on everything from the physical demands of racing to how they each navigated moments of failure, both on and off the track.
For Nathalie, a key figure in advancing accessibility within motorsport, the journey began with a deep passion for cars. “It started from a passion for cars because of what that meant for me as a disabled person, and then the speed came,” she says. The episode explores how Formula 1 cars are often designed with men in mind, and how women can still break through by harnessing skill, bravery, and financial support.
Vicki, whose career has taken her from the circuits to the screen, shares her story of perseverance. “Somebody that I knew, my dad, had a passion for cars and he opened that door for me,” she reflects. But like many in the world of motorsport, Vicki faced challenges early on. “When I was 17, I was doing my A-levels, wanted to step up to be a Formula 1 driver, I realised it wasn’t going to work. Hard lesson for me to learn, that my dream career was over.” Yet, Vicki found strength in the unique nature of her profession. “I love it because I am a bit different, I love that I can slide a car around and people are like, oooh.”
The episode also touches on the more personal side of being a woman in motorsport. Vicki discusses how becoming a mother shifted her perspective on her career. “When my second son was born, it brought home to me how much my job, and how much driving and racing and being around people, is important to me.”
The conversations in Women in the Driving Seat break the mold of typical empowerment narratives, offering not only a peek into the lives of two dynamic women but also an exploration of the ways in which personal and professional spheres intersect. Erin Baker, a host with her own compelling story, brings out these raw, candid moments with aplomb, all while tackling the fears, failures, and moments of joy that shape these women’s lives.
Each episode of Women in the Driving Seat will include a Pit Stop – a quick-fire round where Erin challenges her guests with lighthearted, yet revealing questions like “Lark or owl?” and “Phone by the bed or phone downstairs?” These moments of fun provide insight into the personalities behind the professional accomplishments, giving listeners a well-rounded view of the women who are changing the automotive world.
As the first episode of the series reveals, Women in the Driving Seat is not just about cars and racing—it’s about breaking barriers, overcoming adversity, and forging paths where women are leading the way, both on the racetrack and in life.
Listen to Women in the Driving Seat on all podcast platforms starting Thursday, 20th February. New episodes will be available every Thursday, so don’t miss the chance to be inspired by the women who are driving change in motorsport and beyond.
About Auto Trader
Auto Trader is the UK’s largest automotive platform, providing a comprehensive marketplace for buying and selling vehicles. Through innovation and a deep understanding of the automotive market, Auto Trader continues to revolutionize the industry by providing users with the tools and resources to make informed car-buying decisions.
Women in the Driving Seat is available now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
