Mike Fernie: Top Gear Was Fined £35,000 for This! | EP51

In this episode of the Talkin’ Shop Podcast, we sit down with Mike Fernie — YouTuber, presenter, and one of the original voices of UK car content. He talks about cars, engines, and what it really takes to stay relevant in the automotive world. Mike reflects on his journey through YouTube, the evolution of car content from simple reviews to story-driven builds, and why modern audiences want more than just horsepower figures and spec sheets. We dive into engine choices, big builds, ambitious projects, and the constant balance between performance, reliability, and entertainment, alongside the realities of running car channels long-term. From creative burnout and pressure to push boundaries, to working with friends, taking risks, and knowing when a build has gone too far, Mike shares honest insight from years at the sharp end of automotive media. If you’re into cars, engines, real builds, and the behind-the-scenes truth of automotive YouTube, this episode is packed with experience, opinion, and proper car chat.

-

Brought to you by Eclipse Diagnostics. If you work on commercial vehicles, vessels or machinery, check out Jaltest – the UK's leading multi-brand diagnostic tool. Quote "TALKINSHOP" in your enquiry for a free cable saver with your order; on-site training included:
https://www.eclipse-tech.co.uk/talkin-shop/

-

Mike Fernie
https://www.youtube.com/@Mike_Fernie
https://www.instagram.com/mike_fernie

--

To watch the video version of this podcast, visit our YouTube channel: 

https://youtu.be/Xt-K7KYMNNU

--

*Follow us on social media:*

Talkin’ Shop Podcast:
https://www.instagram.com/talkinshoppodcast_/
https://www.tiktok.com/@talkinshoppodcast

Eclipse Diagnostics:
https://www.facebook.com/truck.diagnostics
https://www.linkedin.com/company/eclipse-automotive-technology-ltd/
https://www.instagram.com/eclipsediagnostics_/

-

YouTube videos mentioned in this podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSgusOiaw5Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3htriuqPflk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJzWrSU4I5c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NHv6owsCvw