The Cooper Cast Podcast
Welcome to "The Cooper Cast," the ultimate hub for MINI enthusiasts! Join us, with your host, Dale Blankenship, as we rev up conversations about the latest models, modifications, essential maintenance, and the thrill of all things MINI. Dive into the world of events, drives, and community participation, embracing the joy of MINI ownership with a fun, light-hearted twist. Let's fuel our passion together for safe, fun motoring experiences that make every MINI adventure unforgettable. Subscribe now and become part of the spirited MINI community on "The Cooper Cast"!
The Cooper Cast Podcast
Episode 116 A Dark Midnight Countryman, Group Shenanigans, and Waiting on MTTS”
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It’s another episode of The Cooper Cast Podcast with host Dale Blankenship and Producer Kodi, who once absent this week at Cooper Cast HQ. Very likely asleep near a heater duct somewhere.
We kick things off with a look across the Pacific at a new, dark-themed Countryman headed exclusively to the Japanese market—and it comes with a twist nobody saw coming. Dale breaks down what makes this special edition interesting, why certain markets get the fun toys, and what it says about MINI’s global strategy.
Then we take our usual stroll through the MINI Facebook groups, where the content ranges from helpful and insightful to downright head-scratching. As always, the groups provide plenty of conversation fuel—some good, some questionable, and some that remind us why the MINI community is never dull.
We also check in once again on MINI Takes The States, as we’re still waiting on official dates and cities for the next installment of MINI USA’s big road-trip celebration. Patience continues to be the theme.
And finally, a quick but important reminder: sign-ups for MINIs On The Dragon drives open February 14th—Valentine’s Day. If you’re planning to attend, that’s the date to mark on the calendar before those drive slots fill up.
It’s a fun mix of global MINI news, community chatter, and event updates—another classic Cooper Cast episode.
Motor safely… and don’t forget to wave! 🚗🐾
Motoring File story on the Shadow Edition Countryman
https://www.motoringfile.com/2026/02/02/mini-countryman-shadow-edition-a-diesel-special-edition/
BMWBLOG Shadow Countryman story
https://www.bmwblog.com/2026/01/31/2026-mini-countryman-shadow-edition/
MINIs On The Dragon