Dan Hill, founder of My Drive Time, joins Terry Cook to discuss the evolution of technology in the driving instruction industry over the past decade. With a focus on moving from paper-based record keeping to digital solutions, Dan emphasizes the need for instructors to modernize their business practices to meet the demands of today's learners.

The conversation highlights the challenges faced by instructors in embracing change, as well as the importance of education and support in business management for new driving instructors.

Dan shares personal anecdotes about the positive feedback he's received and the loyalty shown by customers, especially during tough times like the pandemic. Together, they explore the future of technology in the industry and the critical role it plays in enhancing the learning experience for both instructors and students.

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

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The Instructor Podcast brings listeners an engaging conversation with Dan Hill, the founder of My Drive Time, as he reflects on a decade of innovation in the driving instruction industry. Terry Cook and Dan explore the evolution of technology within this field, particularly focusing on how driving instructors can enhance their businesses through effective data management and modern tools. Hill shares personal anecdotes about the challenges he faced in transitioning instructors from traditional paper methods to digital solutions, emphasizing the need for instructors to embrace change. He also touches on the emotional journey of building My Drive Time from the ground up, driven by the desire to provide better business management support for driving instructors. The discussion delves into the common resistance to technological change among older instructors and highlights the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.

The episode further investigates the role of technology in shaping the future of driving instruction. Hill discusses the significance of understanding one’s business data, from financial records to student progress tracking, and how these insights can lead to smarter decision-making. He advocates for a shift in mindset among instructors—moving away from outdated practices and recognizing the benefits of digital solutions. The conversation also touches on the importance of community and support within the industry, as Hill recounts how the instructors who backed him during tough times renewed his faith in the profession. This episode serves as both a motivational call to action for instructors to modernize their practices and a testament to the positive impact of technology in enhancing the driving instruction experience.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into not only the practical applications of My Drive Time but also the broader implications of technology in professional development and industry standards. Hill's vision for the future of driving instruction is clear: to foster a culture that embraces innovation, encourages ongoing education, and ultimately elevates the profession to new heights. By the end of the episode, audiences are left with a sense of urgency to reflect on their own practices and consider how they can leverage technology to improve their services and business outcomes.

Takeaways:

The transition from paper to digital record-keeping is crucial for driving instructors' success.
Instructors must embrace technology to remain competitive and meet students' expectations.
It's important to acknowledge the challenges faced by driving instructors, including apathy towards change.
Dan Hill emphasizes the need for driving instructors to understand their business responsibilities.
The industry needs to cultivate a culture of learning and adaptation to modern tools.
Striving for consistency in business practices can significantly enhance operational efficiency.

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