Inspire Instructor Training Podcast (Phil Cowley)

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 Concept & Structure:

- Inspired by Alex’s PDI training experiences and a conversation with Chris Bensted  

- Focuses on layering skills like a lasagne!  

- Covers GDE matrix concepts and psychological aspects of driving  

🎯 Who Can Benefit?  

- Learner drivers 

- Nervous beginners who want a structured approach  

- PDIs & ADIs looking for fresh, relatable teaching methods  

📘 Bonus Resource: Show Me Tell Me Book  

- Companion book for practical vehicle checks 🚦  

- Makes "Show Me Tell Me" questions more engaging & memorable  

🛒 Want to Read It?  

📖 Available on Amazon – Search "Learning to Drive and Lasagna" 

https://amzn.eu/d/go1rJZs

📌 Formats: Paperback & Kindle 

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

I'm joined by the ADI and PDI Doctor Lee Spary and we discuss how we teach roundabouts.

Add learning don't steal it.

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.

So what have I got in store for you today?

Today I’ll be chatting to Terry Leftery, Terry has years of experience and he shares his take on the industry and coaching.

We discuss, Was any verbal or physical intervention by the trainer timely and appropriate? 

And our final section of the national standards for driver and rider training which is all about role play.

You can find Terry on Facebook just send him a message

On today’s episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Kev Field we discuss test ready, and our competency is ‘Was the pupil encouraged to analyse problems and take responsibility for their learning?’

You can Kev at 

www.confidentdrivers.co.uk

🎙️ 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 them and their companies Inspire and Cowley’s, for industry awards, and they reflect on the wealth of resources available to driving instructors.
• The Importance of Self-Kindness: Diana highlights the need for instructors to be kind to themselves, especially when dealing with difficult students or situations that push them beyond their expertise.
• Dealing with Challenging Pupils: The hosts discuss managing students with ingrained bad habits, addressing parental involvement, and the value of communication, collaboration, and sometimes referral to specialists.
• Teaching Nuggets: In the “Phil Digs Deeper” segment, Phil shares a powerful example of using a brief moment during a lesson to emphasise road safety. Diana adds a perspective on timing and the balance of deep discussions in lessons.

📚 This episode is full of relatable stories, practical strategies, and reminders to approach teaching with patience, kindness, and adaptability. Tune in to learn how to nurture your own growth while helping your students succeed!

💌 Don’t forget to vote for Inspire and Cowley’s in the industry awards—help us celebrate excellence in driving instruction!

https://www.intelligentinstructor.co.uk/awards-voting/

https://www.goroadie.com/awards

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.

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Agfb8uKQ9/?mibextid=K35XfP

https://www.facebook.com/share/1EmTpgpqjM/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

#DrivingPodcast #Perimenopause #InstructorTraining  

On this episode with Tom Stenson we discuss Managing Customers and 'At the end of the session – was the pupil encouraged to reflect on their own performance?'

In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Emma Cottington to delve into the art of teaching reversing. We explore various techniques, highlighting the ones we find most effective and those we prefer to avoid. Tune in to discover practical tips and innovative ideas to elevate your reversing lessons.

You can find all things Emma at linktr.ee/emmacottington1

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.

On this episode, we talk to Becky Seaton about her journey and we discuss 'Were the pupil’s queries followed up and answered?'

In this episode, I talk to the amazing Bob Morton. We discuss all things driving instructing.

If you would like to find out more about Bob visit,

https://clientcentredlearning.co.uk

Get in touch with me at,

https://theinstructortrainer.com

On today’s episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Carl Cooper Barlow we discuss Carls journey to becoming an instructor.

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.

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

Did the trainer maintain an appropriate non-discriminatory manner throughout the session? With San Harper

On today's episode we discuss reference points and should driving instructors use them. We dig into our next competency, 'Were opportunities and examples used to clarify learning outcomes?'.

I'm joined by Kevin Sellwood from the ExeL Podcast, who shares his knowledge with us.

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 down subconscious decision-making into teachable steps
• Balancing structured lesson plans with pupil needs
• Helping struggling pupils through observation & reflection

🎧 Plus, we cover upcoming training events!

🗓 March 12th Zoom: 8 Pitfalls to Avoid for Part 3 & Standards Checks

🗓 March 26th Zoom: Learning from the Positives in a Full Fixed Society

🗓 March 27th Masterclass: How to Teach Skills Within Topics

🗓 March 22nd-23rd Conference: Gala dinner, speakers, and networking

🚀 Next Steps for Instructors:

✅ Try "driving independently" exercises with your pupils

✅ Reflect on your own driving decisions to improve teaching

✅ Sign up for the upcoming Zooms and conference

💬 What do you think? Have you tried these strategies in your lessons? Let us know in the comments!

#DrivingInstructor #InstructorPodcast #DrivingIndependently #InspireTraining #ProfessionalDevelopment

On today's we are joined by Diana Todd and Deucalion Mcgregor-Sims. We discuss how they became driving instructors, and what they have to offer now. We also dig into the first competency for the Part 3 and Standards Check 'Did the trainer identify the learner's goals and needs?'

You can find Diana and Deucalion at,

http://toddsdrivertraining.co.uk

https://www.1-drive.co.uk/

All 3 of us can be found as admin and support at

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LousPDIgroup

If you have any questions for me or would like 1-2-1 training then visit,

https://theinstructortrainer.com/

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

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 teaching bay parking.  

- One key improvement per attempt = more effective learning.  

- This approach also applies to roundabouts and other driving scenarios.  

Drive Mobility & Instructor Survey

- Jacky from Drive Mobility joins us to discuss a crucial survey on disability driver training.  

- There’s a high demand for instructors specialising in mobility needs and older drivers.  

- Why do some instructors choose not to work in this sector? Let’s explore the barriers.  

- Two surveys are available: one for ADIs involved in disability tuition and one for those who are not. 

- You can find the survey here,

Click here if YOU ARE NOT currently offering specialist tuition

Click here if YOU ARE already offering specialist tuition

Diana Digs Deeper  

- A different approach to instruction—understanding why decisions are made.  

- Analysing roundabouts: how shape, incline, and traffic levels affect decision-making.  

- The balance between deep analysis and repetition-based practice.  

Upcoming Events  

📅 Mark your calendars! 

- Feb 19 – Zoom: Asking Relevant Questions  

- Mar 12 – Zoom: Avoiding Pitfalls for Part 3/Standards Check  

- Mar 20 – *We’re Only Human* Workshop  

- Mar 22-23 – Meet us at the *Intelligent Instructor Conference*!  

- Mar 26 – Zoom: Learning from the Positives  

- Mar 27 – Masterclass: Teaching Skills Within Topics  

- Apr 24 – Masterclass: Helping Pupils Who Struggle to Articulate Answers  

🎧 Tune in now and take your instructing skills to the next level!  

On this with episode with Chris Bentsted, we discuss an array of topics and it's all gold with some amazing takeaways.

To find Chris visit https://theditc.co.uk/ or http://www.chrisbensted.co.uk/

On today’s episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Andrew Love we discuss road safety, and our competency is ‘Was the teaching style suited to the pupil’s learning style and current ability?’

You can Andrew at

www.lidiaondemand.co.uk

I'm joined by Rob Cooling to discuss how he delivers his dual carriageway and motorway lessons.

In this episode with Terry Cook we talk all things CPD.

If you enjoyed this go and listen to Terry's amazing podcast at https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/

Today's episode is all about games. How to implement them, the benefits and different types. I'm joined by the other half of Inspire Instructor Training Diana Todd.

If you've enjoyed today's episode we have a game course within our membership package. head over to www.inspireinstructortraining.com for more details.

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

Graham shares his journey with us from how he struggled with alcohol to being diagnosed with Autism as an adult.

On today's episode, I talked to the amazing Emma Cottington about mental health and our competence this week was all about technical information.

On today's episode I chat to Fiona Taylor about 'Was the pupil given appropriate and timely feedback during session?'

We also discuss scaling and the teaching aids Fiona supplies.

You can find these at www. fionadrive.com

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 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 & Live Format

- Introduction to the live‑recorded video cast for members

- How to watch future live recordings on Facebook (membership required)

3:15 – Workshop Announcement

- Date & Time: Sunday 20 July, 9:30 – ~16:30

- Location: Walsall

- Cost: £120 per person, group discounts available

- Focus: client‑centred learning, CPD for driving instructors

7:00 – Phil’s thoughts: “Control the Controllables”

1. The DVSA Waiting‑List Problem

- Five‑plus‑month waits, scarcity of cancellations

- Common reaction: moaning on Facebook—unhelpful

2. Taking Action for Change

- Write to your MP and the DVSA (mobilise your pupils to write, too)

- Drip‑feeding pressure at scale can move ministers

3. Working the System Today

- Hire a test‑finder or virtual assistant and charge a small management fee

- Pre‑book tests early (e.g. on theory‑pass day), then adjust as needed

- Build in “re‑assessment” checkpoints two months out

4. Maximizing Learner Hours

- Encourage private practice between lessons

- Consider mini‑intensives if finances/time allow

5. Pricing & Service Models

- Offer “test‑management” as a premium add‑on

25:00 – Diana’s “Digs Deeper” Coaching Moments

1. Reframing “Blockers” → “Gap‑Makers”**

- Instead of calling oncoming vehicles “blockers,” ask learners what they’d name them

- Shift from negative framing (“blockers”) to positive (“gap‑makers”)

2. Perfection vs. Reflection

- Encourage “reflection, not perfection” as a mantra for analysis

3. Mini‑Roundabout Design Exercise

- Role‑play as the “traffic‑flow engineer” to explore pros/cons of signals vs. roundabouts

- Pitch solutions to “road‑safety teams” and “road‑users” to deepen conceptual grasp

- Follow up with real‑world practice, then debrief on muscle‑memory vs. theory

38:30 – Learner‑Driven Terminology

- **Hazard Traffic‑Light Game:**

- **Green hazards:** unlikely to affect your path

- **Amber hazards:** may require slowing or manoeuvring

- **Red hazards:** will definitely require action (stop, change lane)

- Origin: inspired by Hazard Perception Test colour cues

42:00 – Handling Second‑Guessing on Test Day

- Is doubt a sign they really “owned” the learning?

- Build true understanding, not rote responses

- Use controlled “wrong‑way” practice (with safety caveats) to reinforce correct choices

- Wean off instructor “micro‑affirmations” (mhm/mhmm) so learners trust their own judgment

- 🎙 Join our Facebook membership to watch live Q&As

- 🏫 Book your CPD workshop on 20 July (group discounts available)

- ⭐ If you found this episode helpful, please rate & review on your podcast app

On today’s episode of Inspire Instructor Training Podcast with Diana Todd we discuss intensive courses, and our competency is ‘Was sufficient feedback given to help the pupil understand any potential safety critical incidents?’

You can find both myself and Diana at 

www.inspireinstructortraining.com

In today's episode, we talk all things risk management with Ray Seagrave.

You can find Ray at,

Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/trainingfordrivinginstructors

Info on courses 

https://rayseagraveaditraining.setmore.com

Driving Instructors Development Toolkit Facebook group. 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/555542521821729/?ref=share_group_link

A brand-new podcast aimed at helping ADI's and Pdi's with the standards. Check and part three test. We will be chatting with industry leaders along with ADI's and PDIs learning about their stories.

Don't forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode.

I'm joined by Dr Julia Malkin MBE to discuss how to support neurodiverse learners.

You can get in touch with Dr Julia here,

Email julia.mbe2011@gmail.com

Phone number 07761 064694

https://www.facebook.com/juliapm.co.uk

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

In today's episode, we discuss how to deliver a road safety message to our learners. Terry has a great set of resources on his website that you should check out.

https://www.theinstructorpodcast.com/vision-zero

I'm joined by Kev and Tracy Field from Confident Drivers, to discuss how we can best support our learners with anxiety.

https://www.confidentdrivers.co.uk/

In today's episode, we talk to Lee Spary from ADI Doctor or PDI Doctor.

We discuss 'Were directions and instructions given to the pupil clear and given in good time?'

and

'Unit 5 - Evaluate and develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in the driver/rider training industry'

To find out more about Lee visit,

Adidoctor.co.uk

Pdidoctor.co.uk

I'm joined by Terry Cook to discuss our latest book, Coaching Skills - A Practical Guide by Christian Van Nieuwerburgh

On today's episode, we discuss Emma Brückner Fonnaland journey to becoming an ADI. We talk about her challenges, how she overcame them and what she's got planned next.

I'm joined by Chris Bensted of Theory Test Explained and we talk about all things theory and how you can help your pupils.

You can find Chris at https://www.theorytestexplained.co.uk/

Link to game Chris mentions

https://amzn.to/3RQtBfZ

I'm joined by Bob Morton to discuss how to deliver a first lesson and how to implement coaching from day 1.

You can find Bob at https://clientcentredlearning.co.uk/

Also, you can find the poem Bob mentioned here

https://www.skmurphy.com/blog/2007/02/13/kierkegaard-on-the-art-of-helping-others-to-understand/

On this episode, we talk about als things coaching, how to coach, why we should coach and how it will benefit your lessons. I'm joined by the amazing Stewart Lochrie from Bright Coaching, you can find their details at,

www.brightcoaching.net

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!

On this episode, we discuss all things Stewart including his brand new course and his work with The Honest Truth.

We dig into the second competency, 'Was the agreed lesson structure appropriate for the pupil’s experience and ability?'

Also we talk thought Unit 1 from the National Standards for Driver and Rider Training.

Some helpful links from today's podcast

https://theinstructortrainer.com/

https://www.brightcoaching.net/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-standard-for-driver-and-rider-training

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1116988/carrying-out-driving-instructor-tests-and-checks-adi1.pdf

On today's episode we are joined by Mick Knowle and Lee Jowett from Knowledgablee Instructor Training, we discuss competence 7 from the ADI Part 3 and Standards Check 'Was the trainer aware of the surroundings and the pupils actions?'

We also dig into the GDE Matrix and why it's so important that we talk about and use it in our lessons.

You can find the KIT guys at https://www.adikit.co.uk