Inspire Instructor Training Podcast

Guest Rachael Butler — Sales & Marketing Director, Intelligent Instructor 10 years at Intelligent Instructor (joined ~6 months after launch) Curates and organises content for Intelligent Instructor Plus Runs 24 online events per year (12 masterclasses + 12 member webinars) Heavily involved in national events: sponsorship/exhibitors and event delivery What we cover What Rachael’s role actually...

]Episode summary: In this episode, Diana Todd is joined by Kat Tomkinson ( Driving Instructor Kat ) to discuss PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and how it can show up in driving lessons when autonomy feels threatened. Kat shares practical ways to reduce demand, build trust, and keep learning non-judgemental — including using hypothetical scenarios and adapting communication. The conversation al...

In this first episode of the new look Inspire Instructor Training Podcast, host Diana Todd chats with Sarah Baldock, founder of SB Driving School in Maidstone, Kent. Together they explore what it means to be a driving instructor in today’s world — balancing life, learning, and the love of helping others succeed. Sarah shares her journey from redundancy to independence, how she uses dashcam footage...

🎧 Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Phil sits down with driving instructor and course creator  Kate Monk , the founder of  My Learner Driver  – an online course designed to help  parents of learner drivers  become active participants in creating safer, more prepared drivers. Kate shares her  emotional ‘why’  behind the course, following the devastating...

Episode Theme: Stepping into the learner’s role to sharpen your instructor skills, and practical tactics for easing driving-related anxiety. Why Play Learner? Gain fresh perspective on your own training style Spot best (and worst) teaching habits to adopt or ditch Try something outside your comfort zone—gym theory, workshops, etc. On-the-Move vs Pullover Corrections: If safe and the student can pr...

We dig into the DVSA Consolation on changes to the test booking system. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/improving-car-driving-test-booking-rules/improving-car-driving-test-booking-rules?utm_source=dvsa&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=improving-driving-test-booking-rules&utm_content=adi

In this Book Club edition of the  Inspire Instructor Training Podcast , Phil is joined by Terry Cook ( The Instructor Podcast ), Andy Sinker, and Kev Lynes to explore  Start With Why  by Simon Sinek. But this isn’t just a book review — it’s a deep, personal dive into why we teach, why we care, and how purpose shapes every lesson we give. The conversation touches on: How your “why” e...

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and reflective episode, Phil is joined by returning guest and mentor Sam Harper (filling in for Diana) for an open and honest conversation about the personal and professional journey of being a driving instructor. Together, they explore: The importance of shifting from “doing” to “learning” in lessons. How to dig deeper into both successful and unsuccessful momen...

In our first ever live podcast (streamed on Facebook for members), we dive into practical strategies for driving instructors to take control of what they can—and thrive despite DVSA test‑booking challenges. Plus, Diana shares two “Digs Deeper” coaching moments, and we explore clever learner‑driven terminology for blockers, hazards, and reflection over perfection. 0:00 – Welcome &amp...

Add learning don't steal it.

In this episode, we break down key teaching strategies for driving instructors, including: ✅  The Concept of "Driving Independently" How it differs from test-focused  "independent driving" Why letting pupils drive without constant instructor input builds confidence Practical exercises to implement this approach in lessons ✅  Instructor Self-Analysis for Better Teaching Breaking do...

Podcast Show Notes – Episode 45: Inspire Instructor Training In this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training Podcast, we dive into key topics that help driving instructors improve their teaching strategies and stay informed about industry developments.   Phil's Thoughts - Don’t let the pursuit of perfection hinder progress!   - Learn how to focus on *practice over analysis* when teach...

On this episode we discuss our new national driving school, aimed at supporting driving instructors across the country.

Book Club: Learning to Drive and Lasagne by Alex Jones   📚 Key Takeaways ✅ Uses lasagne-making as an analogy for learning to drive 🍝🚗   ✅ Covers both car control skills and higher-level cognitive aspects   ✅ Engaging approach tailored to learners' interests & experiences   ✅ Valuable resource for earners, PDIs & experienced ADIs 🔍 Topics Discussed  🛠 Book C...

🎙️  Inspire Instructor Training Podcast  – Episode: “Be Kind to Yourself & Embrace Learning Opportunities” In this thought-provoking episode, Phil and Diana share insights on self-kindness as a driving instructor and how to turn everyday lessons into meaningful learning moments. 💡  Key Topics Covered: Celebrating the Industry:  The hosts encourage listeners to vote for the...

In this episode, Phil and Diana dive into what it really means to be an experienced driving instructor — and why it's  not just about the years you've been teaching. They explore the qualities that make a great instructor mentor, tips for achieving an A grade on your standards check, and the importance of continuous professional development (CPD) for driving instructors who want to make a las...

In this episode, Phil and Diana discuss: 🎯  Coaching in Driver’s Education Why coaching empowers students to learn from within. The "acorn to oak tree" analogy: Students have the potential to grow with the right guidance. Balancing technical information with self-discovery and experience. 🚘  The Rise of Automatic Cars Statistics show a sharp increase in learners choosing automatics. Pr...

In this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training podcast, we delve into actionable strategies for driving instructors to enhance their teaching skills, develop professionally, and keep lessons engaging. With a mix of practical advice, humor, and in-depth exploration, this episode is a must-listen for instructors at all levels. Key Topics Covered: Small, Consistent Improvements - Learn about "com...

Menopause  In this episode of the Inspire Instructor Training podcast, we explore the challenges and realities of menopause and its impact on driving instructors. With insightful contributions from instructor Sarah, we discuss how this stage of life can affect professional performance and personal well-being, and share strategies to manage symptoms while fostering a supportive workplace. &nbs...

On this episode we enjoy a great story from Kat Tompkinson and both Phil and Diana share there wisdom.

We have Phil's thoughts and Diana Digs Deeper along with a great question and story from Iwan.

I'm joined for our first round table episode on 'Running Your Business" by Chris Benstead, Vickie Ambrose, Terry Cook and Dan Hill. We discuss all things business and leave you all with some great tips.

On this episode Phil gets a bit ranty about undertaking, we share our recent fails and Terry Cook shares two great stories with us.

In this episode, you find out what me and Diana regret spending money on, why Chris Bensted shouldn't wave at everyone and why you should always ask the question.

I'm joined by The Instructor Podcast's Terry Cook to discuss our latest book Supercommunicators.