

The Instructor
Terry Cook
Holding a mirror up the the driver training industry, to help driving instructors run better and more profitable businesses as well as improving as instructors.
I talk with a variety of experts, leaders, innovators and game changers to harness their knowledge and see how we can apply that to our business. If you share the same passion for personal and professional development as me and my guests, then this podcast can help you make the changes you need to become a better instructor and business owner.
To accompany the podcast there's also a premium subscription feed:
https://www.patreon.com/theinstructor
Here you can find weekly bonus shows, excluive discounts to CPD and all the show are early and ad free. The perfect place to start or enhance your CPD as a driving instructor.
I talk with a variety of experts, leaders, innovators and game changers to harness their knowledge and see how we can apply that to our business. If you share the same passion for personal and professional development as me and my guests, then this podcast can help you make the changes you need to become a better instructor and business owner.
To accompany the podcast there's also a premium subscription feed:
https://www.patreon.com/theinstructor
Here you can find weekly bonus shows, excluive discounts to CPD and all the show are early and ad free. The perfect place to start or enhance your CPD as a driving instructor.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2023 • 1h 9min
What's wrong with the theory test, and what can instructors do about it?
The theory test is a topic that's plagued driving instructors for a long time. How do we get learners to engage? Is the test fit for purpose? What resources are out there?That's all covered today as Chris Bensted from Theory Test Explained joins us to answer those questions. Check out Theory Test Explained on Facebook or their website.We also have a new feature at the end of each episode where a driving instructor joins me to offer their top tip to the industry, and today it's Premium member; Sarah Baldock. You can follow Sarah on Instagram and get her recommended resource here. 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Mar 19, 2023 • 1h 7min
Stunt driver, ADI and battling for equality
I'm joined by Sarah Hall, whose list of roles includes, stunt driver, Ford Cup racer, and driving instructor, as we discuss:Why she added ADI to her repertoireThe skills/mindset she's brought in from her motorsport careerWhy she struggled on Part 3Her battles with imposter syndrome as an ADIThe sexism she faces as a woman in a predominantly male industryYou can follow Sarah on Facebook and Instagram.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...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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Feb 28, 2023 • 1h 10min
The Green Room #26 - How successful were the DVSA in 2022?
The Green Room is back! I'm joined by Chris Bensted of the DITC as we reflect on all the latest news, including:Driving Test fraudAre You Ready?The DVSA's successful 2022We also discuss the difference between A and B grades and whether they have any impact on driving lessons. You can check out the Ice event here.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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Feb 1, 2023 • 6min
Short Lesson #14 - The importance of CPD: Ray Seagrave
It's another midweek boost of inspiration and information as we dive way back into season two and Ray Seagrave talk about the importance of CPD and why it matters to him. Check out the full episode here. 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Jan 7, 2023 • 1h 7min
The Green Room #25 - 2022 in review and some special shout outs
2022 was quite an interesting year and the DITC's Chris Bensted joins me to discuss all the highs and lows, including:Highway Code changesDriving test waiting timesThe DVSAWe also take some time to look ahead to 2023 and give some shout outs to some of the less discussed people in the industry.Have an awesome 2023. 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Dec 25, 2022 • 38min
Top Tips for Driving Instructors in 2023
It's the last episode of Season four and its released on Christmas day, so I'm joined by a few very special guests to offer driving instructors a collection of tips for 2023.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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Dec 18, 2022 • 1h 12min
The Pupil Perspective
Join Terry Cook as he dives deep into the learner's perspective on driving lessons with former students Charlotte Parker and Julia Feeric. This episode emphasizes the importance of communication between instructors and learners, highlighting how a strong rapport can significantly enhance the learning experience. Both guests share their insights on what makes a driving instructor effective, from being approachable to creating a positive atmosphere during lessons. They discuss the impact of private practice and the necessity of feeling comfortable enough to express concerns, which is crucial for building confidence behind the wheel. With a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for both driving instructors and learners alike, all wrapped in a light-hearted and playful tone that keeps things engaging.I'm joined by two former students as they discuss their experience learning to drive and share some valuable insights from a pupils perspective including:The importance of good communicationTreating people as individualsHow annoying it is to ask them to vote in awardsSpeaking of awards you can vote for the Instructor Podcast in the Intelligent Instructor and GoRoadie awards. 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC Terry Cook engages with two former pupils, Charlotte and Julia, to explore the learner's perspective on driving instruction. The conversation unfolds with Charlotte sharing her experience, which oscillated between excitement and anxiety, as she navigated the complexities of learning to drive. She reflects on how initial lessons before the pandemic had set a foundation, but the return to driving after a long hiatus brought about new challenges. Charlotte emphasizes the importance of communication and rapport between instructors and students, highlighting that having open discussions about fears and expectations can alleviate anxiety and foster a more productive learning environment. The discussion also touches on the balance between structured lessons and the need for flexibility, emphasizing that individual learning styles should guide lesson pacing and content.Julia, on the other hand, adds a rich layer to the dialogue by discussing how her lessons became a highlight of her week, illustrating the positive impact of a supportive instructor. Her insights into the value of instructor-student communication reveal that learners desire a collaborative relationship, where both parties contribute to the learning process. She also underscores the importance of being receptive to a learner's emotional state, as mental readiness plays a crucial role in mastering driving skills. The episode ultimately champions the idea that effective driving instruction is about more than just teaching skills; it’s about building a relationship that empowers students and helps them embrace the journey to becoming confident drivers.Takeaways: Building rapport with students is crucial to creating a positive learning environment. Open communication between instructors and learners fosters a sense of collaboration and trust. Understanding that each student learns differently is essential for effective teaching strategies. Encouraging students to express concerns can mitigate anxiety and enhance their driving experience. Providing resources, even if they aren't your own, empowers students to take charge of their learning. Acknowledging that not all students will want private practice can ease unnecessary pressure.

Dec 15, 2022 • 5min
Short Lesson #13 - The Future: Carl Reader
It's another midweek boost of inspiration and information as we dive way back into season two, to listen to how he sees the future of the automotive industry. You can check out the full episode here:https://player.captivate.fm/episode/355e0ac5-fc13-4a29-a2e7-5176d8dfdf22For 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Dec 11, 2022 • 56min
Coaching, Goal Setting and Sharing Responsibility
As coaching continues to grow in the driving instructor industry, is always nice to be joined by an expert in the field. But it's even better when we're joined by two!Jo Wheatley and Zoe Hawkins of The Coaching Crowd podcast join me to discuss:Goal settingThe relationship between learner and instructorCoaching the gapDespite a power cut, it's another cracking episode and you can find Jo and Zoe in the following places:Podcast Website Facebook Group 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC

Dec 4, 2022 • 58min
Students with additional needs - how driving instructors can help
How would you help a student with additional needs? Whether physical or mental, students with additional needs can be a daunting a challenge for a driving instructor. Fortunately we have wonderful people like Emma Hallett who are willing to offer some words of wisdom.We discuss:How rewarding her role isTips for ADI'sThe adaptations that are availableYou can find Emma's website here. 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...For additional content and exclusive discounts, be sure to check out our Premium subscription - Here you'll find lot's 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 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:Join The Instructor Podcast Facebook group FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagramYouTubeAnd be sure to check out the DITC