• Short Lesson #32 - Did the trainer identify the pupil's learning goals and needs
    Jan 9 2025

    Welcome to The Instructor Podcast Short Lessons – in these bite-sized episodes I dive back into the archives and pull out a nugget of information or inspiration to get you thinking – today we’re heading back to September of 2021 and we’re digging into an Instructor Podcast Premium episode – The Standards Check Checklist – Ray Seagrave was the guest as we took a deep dive into “Did the trainer identify the pupil’s learning goals and needs”

    Listen to the full episode here

    For more information on The Instructor Podcast visit https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/


    For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lots of extra content, including:

    • Episodes on the Standards check and how to break down each individual competency so you're fully aware of what to expect, how to prepare, and how to perform.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, San Harper, and Kev & Tracey Field.
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • As a member, you'll also receive exclusive discounts for GoRoadie Pro, Client Centred learning training, The ADI/PDI Doctor, and The Guild of Mindful Driver Trainers.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

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    • And be sure to check out the DITC

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    9 mins
  • The Green Room #46: Driving Instructor 2024 in Review - Part 2
    Jan 1 2025

    Chris Bensted, Tom Stenson, and Stewart Lochrie join me in Part Two of our review of 2024.

    We take a look at all the news from the socind half of the year, plus I ask for some fails, wins, and industry highlights, and we share some very special Instructor Podcast awards.

    Links from the show:

    • Bright Coaching
    • The DITC
    • 10 Minute Takeaway
    • Milestones

    For more information on The Instructor Podcast visit https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/


    For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lots of extra content, including:

    • Episodes on the Standards check and how to break down each individual competency so you're fully aware of what to expect, how to prepare, and how to perform.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, San Harper, and Kev & Tracey Field.
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • As a member, you'll also receive exclusive discounts for GoRoadie Pro, Client Centred learning training, The ADI/PDI Doctor, and The Guild of Mindful Driver Trainers.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
    • And be sure to check out the DITC

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • The Green Room #46: Driving Instructors 2024 in Review - Part One
    Dec 31 2024

    As we wrap up 2024, this episode of the Instructor Podcast takes a reflective look at the year's highs and lows within the driving instructor industry.

    The main focus is on the positive strides made in embracing road safety and the increasing collaboration among trainers, ADIs, and PDIs. Guests Stewart Lochrie, Chris Bensted, and Tom Stenson share their insights, highlighting the influx of enthusiastic younger instructors eager to make their mark. With a blend of humour and candid conversation, this episode showcases the community's growth and the exciting potential for the future of driver education.

    For more information on The Instructor Podcast visit https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/ here you'll find guest profiles, spotlighted episodes, blogs access to The Instructor Podcast Premium, previous episodes and more...

    Links from the show:

    • Bright Coaching
    • The DITC
    • 10 Minute Takeaway
    • Co-Pilot

    For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lots of extra content, including:

    • Episodes on the Standards check and how to break down each individual competency so you're fully aware of what to expect, how to prepare and how to perform.
    • Conversations with world-class coaches as we dive into their thoughts on coaching in the driver instructor industry.
    • Shows where we deep dive into a specific topic, with no tangents.
    • As a member you'll also receive exclusive discounts for The ADIJNC, Client Centred Learning, and Vehicle Smart.

    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
    • And be sure to check out the DITC

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • TikTok Tips for Driving Instructors - How to Go Viral without Clickbait
    Dec 15 2024

    Get ready to dive into the world of social media for driving instructors with Keanan LA and Terry Cook.

    This conversation highlights the importance of utilizing platforms like TikTok to engage with younger audiences and promote road safety in a fun and relatable way. Keanan shares his journey from actor to road safety presenter, emphasizing that creating engaging content doesn't require perfection; it's about being authentic and enjoying the process.

    The discussion also covers practical tips for beginners, such as leveraging trending content and managing online comments, ensuring that instructors can confidently navigate the digital landscape. As they explore the balance between creativity and strategy, you'll discover valuable insights to elevate your own social media game while keeping the tone light and humorous.

    Season 9 of The Instructor Podcast is sponsored by MyDriveTime, the industry's premium, award-winning business management app.

    Follow First Car on TikTok

    Sign up for The Instructor Podcast Newsletter

    Follow The Instructor Podcast WhatsApp channel

    To elevate your skills as a driving instructor, consider exploring our Premium subscription, where you'll discover top-notch training and some of the industry's finest trainers, featuring:

    • Explore in-depth coaching, The Standards Check, Mindfulness, and additional topics.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, Emma Cottington, Ray Seagrave, and Tom Stenson
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • Membership includes exclusive discounts for the ADINJC, Client Centred Learning, The ADI/PDI Doctor, among others.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube



    Keanan LA and Terry Cook dive into the dynamic world of social media in the latest instalment of the Instructor Podcast, specifically focusing on the impactful platform of TikTok. They explore the strategies driving engagement and the delicate balance between creating viral content without veering into clickbait territory. Keanan, who has become a prominent figure in road safety via engaging videos, shares his journey from presenting educational content to leveraging his expertise in the realm of social media. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in content creation, emphasizing that instructors should strive to express their true selves rather than mimic trending styles that may not align with their message. This episode serves as a valuable resource for driving instructors looking to enhance their digital presence and connect with a younger audience, offering practical tips on how to craft relatable, informative, and entertaining...

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Driving into the Future: The Role of Instructors in Autonomous Vehicles
    Dec 8 2024

    Driving instructors need to embrace the evolving technology of vehicles, especially as we move closer to autonomous driving.

    Terry Cook chats with Dr. Nick Reed, a leading expert in vehicle technology and road safety, about the crucial role instructors will play in the development and adoption of automated vehicles.

    They discuss the importance of understanding driver assistance systems, safety ratings like Euro NCAP, and how instructors can educate learners about making informed choices when buying their first cars.

    The conversation also highlights the need for a balance between automation and driver awareness, ensuring that safety features are utilized rather than disabled. This episode sheds light on how technology is reshaping the driving landscape and the responsibilities that come with it.

    Season 9 of The Instructor Podcast is sponsored by MyDriveTime, the industry's premium, award-winning business management app.

    Sign up for The Instructor Podcast Newsletter

    Follow The Instructor Podcast WhatsApp channel


    Links from todays episode:

    Euro NCAP

    Reed Mobilty

    Co-Pilot 40% discount


    To elevate your skills as a driving instructor, consider exploring our Premium subscription, where you'll discover top-notch training and some of the industry's finest trainers, featuring:

    • Explore in-depth coaching, The Standards Check, Mindfulness, and additional topics.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, Emma Cottington, Ray Seagrave, and Tom Stenson
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • Membership includes exclusive discounts for the ADINJC, Client Centred Learning, The ADI/PDI Doctor, among others.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube


    Terry Cook welcomes Dr. Nick Reed to the Instructor Podcast as they delve into the evolving landscape of driving instruction amidst the rise of autonomous vehicles. With Dr. Reed's extensive background in road safety and mobility research, the conversation explores the significant role driving instructors will play in bridging the gap between traditional driving skills and the new technological advancements in vehicle automation. They discuss the importance of understanding and embracing modern driving assistance systems, emphasizing that while vehicles are becoming more automated, the responsibility of safe driving still rests with human operators. As they navigate through topics such as...

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    49 mins
  • Who Should You Take for Your Standards Check? 17 Trainers Share Their Secrets!
    Dec 1 2024

    Choosing the right pupil for a Standards Check is crucial for driving instructors, and this episode gathers insights from 17 esteemed trainers on how to make that decision.

    The consensus is clear: instructors should select a pupil who genuinely needs to learn and can showcase their teaching skills effectively. Whether it's a learner who needs development or a partly trained driver, the right choice can help demonstrate the instructor's capabilities.

    Many trainers caution against taking full license holders unless the instructor is experienced in teaching them, as the dynamics can shift unexpectedly. Humor and rapport with the chosen pupil also play a vital role in easing nerves and ensuring a productive lesson, making the process more enjoyable for both the instructor and the examiner.

    Season 9 of The Instructor Podcast is sponsored by MyDriveTime, the industry's premium, award-winning business management app.


    Sign up for The Instructor Podcast Newsletter

    Follow The Instructor Podcast WhatsApp channel


    To elevate your skills as a driving instructor, consider exploring our Premium subscription, where you'll discover top-notch training and some of the industry's finest trainers, featuring:

    • Explore in-depth coaching, The Standards Check, Mindfulness, and additional topics.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, Emma Cottington, Ray Seagrave, and Tom Stenson
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • Membership includes exclusive discounts for the ADINJC, Client Centred Learning, The ADI/PDI Doctor, among others.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube


    Navigating the complexities of a Standards Check can be daunting for driving instructors, but the wisdom shared by 17 experienced trainers in this episode sheds light on the nuances of choosing the right pupil for the task. Each trainer brings a unique perspective, emphasizing the importance of rapport, reliability, and the specific needs of the learner. Rather than gravitating towards a full license holder—often seen as the 'safer' choice—many trainers suggest opting for someone who requires development in a particular area. This approach not only highlights the instructor's skills but also creates a more dynamic and engaging learning environment. The conversation is peppered with humorous anecdotes, underscoring how personal experiences can shape an instructor's philosophy and approach to teaching. Whether it’s the nerves of a first-time assessment or the comfort of familiar faces, the trainers share candid insights that resonate with both new and seasoned instructors alike, encouraging a shift in perspective about the evaluation process.

    Takeaways:

    • When choosing a pupil for a...
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • Green Room #45 - Grumpy Old Men
    Nov 30 2024

    Get ready for a lively discussion as Terry Cook and Chris Bensted dive into the pet peeves that really get under their skin in the driving instructor world.

    From the annoyance of trainers boasting about their students' successes before the students even get a chance to celebrate, to the cringe-worthy spelling mistakes that can undermine professionalism, this episode covers it all.

    They explore the importance of respecting each other's journeys, whether it's waving at fellow instructors on the road or handling questions from learners on social media with kindness rather than sarcasm. Humorously dissecting the quirks of their profession, Terry and Chris highlight the need for camaraderie in an often solitary job, emphasizing that a little acknowledgment goes a long way. Tune in for insights that blend personal anecdotes with industry observations, all delivered with their signature playful banter.

    Links from the show:

    Emma's CPD book

    Know the HGV Zones

    Blind spit awareness

    Driving Test Podcast

    Season 9 of The Instructor Podcast is sponsored by MyDriveTime, the industry's premium, award-winning business management app.

    Sign up for The Instructor Podcast Newsletter

    Follow The Instructor Podcast WhatsApp channel


    To elevate your skills as a driving instructor, consider exploring our Premium subscription, where you'll discover top-notch training and some of the industry's finest trainers, featuring:

    • Explore in-depth coaching, The Standards Check, Mindfulness, and additional topics.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, Emma Cottington, Ray Seagrave, and Tom Stenson
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • Membership includes exclusive discounts for the ADINJC, Client Centred Learning, The ADI/PDI Doctor, among others.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube



    Terry Cook and Chris Bensted delve into the intricacies of the driving instructor industry, discussing the latest trends, news, and their own personal experiences. Highlighting the importance of camaraderie among instructors, they address the phenomenon of instructors waving at each other as they pass on the roads. While Chris emphasizes the value of acknowledging fellow instructors, Terry counters that sometimes the...

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • From Tech Sceptic to Advocate: How Technology Can Transform Driving Lessons
    Nov 24 2024

    Today’s podcast dives into the fascinating world of in-car technology and its implications for driving instructors and learners alike.

    Vicky Folland joins Terry Cook to discuss the importance of embracing technology to enhance driving skills rather than replace them. They explore various tech features, such as cruise control, lane assist, and autonomous emergency braking, examining how these can make driving safer and more efficient.

    The conversation also highlights the need for instructors to teach the fundamentals of driving while integrating modern technology into lessons, ensuring learners are well-prepared for the vehicles they'll encounter post-test. With a playful tone and plenty of insights, this episode encourages a positive approach to technology in driving education, emphasizing that it should serve as a valuable aid rather than a crutch.

    Season 9 of The Instructor Podcast is sponsored by MyDriveTime, the industry's premium, award-winning business management app.


    Sign up for The Instructor Podcast Newsletter

    Follow The Instructor Podcast WhatsApp channel


    To elevate your skills as a driving instructor, consider exploring our Premium subscription, where you'll discover top-notch training and some of the industry's finest trainers, featuring:

    • Explore in-depth coaching, The Standards Check, Mindfulness, and additional topics.
    • Exclusive shows with industry leaders including Bob Morton, Emma Cottington, Ray Seagrave, and Tom Stenson
    • Live 'Expert Sessions' on industry-specific topics including; How to teach roundabouts.
    • Membership includes exclusive discounts for the ADINJC, Client Centred Learning, The ADI/PDI Doctor, among others.


    The Instructor Podcast uses a variety of social media channels, including a Facebook group. You can join the group or follow us on the following platforms:

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • YouTube


    Terry Cook welcomes driving instructor Vicky Folland to discuss the integration of technology in driving lessons. The conversation dives into the importance of embracing modern car technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and in-car entertainment systems. Vicky shares her experiences with students who have varying levels of comfort with tech, highlighting the need for instructors to teach the fundamentals of driving while also introducing these technological aids. They emphasize that technology should enhance driving skills rather than replace them, noting the anxiety some learners feel towards new systems. Vicky illustrates how introducing gadgets like smartphone connectivity for music can make lessons more enjoyable and reduce stress for learners, as well as the importance of teaching students how to use these features effectively before they take their tests. The episode also addresses the scepticism surrounding the use of technology in driving, exploring the fears related to losing control and the need for...

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    1 hr