In this episode, Phil and Diana dive into what it really means to be an experienced driving instructor — and why it's notjust 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 lasting impact.

Key topics include:

🚗 Experience vs. Time — Why length of service doesn't always equal quality

💡 Qualities of a Mentor — The mindset and skills every trainer needs

🛑 Standards Check Tips — How to create a supportive learning environment and go beyond surface-level teaching

📚 CPD Insights — Practical ways to improve your teaching and make lessons more impactful

Phil also shares his vision of creating a community of instructors who are passionate about road safety and committed to learning. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow and support the next generation of safe, responsible drivers.

Tune in now to start leveling up your teaching game!

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.
• Predictions: Will over 50% of drivers test in automatics within 10-15 years?
• Why younger generations embrace automatics while older attitudes lag behind.
• Is learning in an automatic faster and more cost-effective?

📚 Teaching Moments & Avoiding Distractions

• Stories from the road:
• Bill’s student distracted by pizza cravings 🍕.
• Phil’s student captivated by geese 🦢.
• A breakdown of a missed coaching opportunity where an instructor could have "dug deeper" to help a student analyze and improve.

🔑 Key Takeaway: Small comments and distractions can hold big learning opportunities. Listen to your students and use every moment to guide them toward success.

🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!

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 "compound learning," where daily 1% improvements lead to big gains over time.

- Practical examples include better question timing, arriving early, or keeping the car spotless.

Tips for Incremental Growth

- Use tools like CPD trackers to monitor progress.

- Build a "question bank" for better lesson engagement, focusing on manageable goals.

Hilarious Lesson Anecdotes

- The hosts share stories of accidental innuendos that will have you laughing out loud.

Advice for Aspiring PDIs

- Don’t settle for subpar training—be proactive in demanding support and tailoring your development.

- Suggestions include feedback-driven sessions and a buddy system for peer support.

Modern Resources for PDIs

- Explore a treasure trove of resources, from podcasts to Facebook groups, and how to use them wisely.

Diana Digs Deeper”: Better Questioning at Junctions

- Improve learner understanding with in-depth questions like “What factors are you taking into account?”

- Learn how to adapt questioning to real-time situations and bridge knowledge gaps effectively.

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.

What You’ll Learn:

- The difference between menopause and perimenopause—and why it’s so misunderstood.

- Recognizing the diverse symptoms of perimenopause, from brain fog to fatigue.

- How perimenopause uniquely impacts driving instructors.

- Sarah’s story: Managing brain fog, anxiety, and fatigue while staying safe on the job.

- The value of open communication with students and colleagues.

- Tips for lifestyle adjustments, like reducing hours and prioritizing self-care.

- Why normalizing menopause discussions is crucial in the workplace.

- How support groups and shared experiences can make a difference.

Key Takeaway:

By increasing awareness, fostering open communication, and creating supportive environments, female driving instructors can manage perimenopause more effectively and continue to thrive in their careers.

🎧 Don’t miss this empowering conversation!

Kate and Jane's Facebook.

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#DrivingPodcast #Perimenopause #InstructorTraining

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.