What the ADI World Looks Like from the Outside In
In this episode, Terry is joined by someone he’s been trying to pin down for years: Rachael Butler of Intelligent Instructor. And it was worth the wait.
This is a conversation that goes well beyond the usual ADI chat. Rachel opens up about her journey, the realities of working within Intelligent Instructor, the thinking behind the events and awards, and the huge amount of unseen graft that powers the brand.
She also talks candidly about menopause, brain fog, confidence, and the juggling act of life, topics that don’t often get discussed openly in this industry.
Together, Terry and Rachel dive into:
- Why road safety genuinely excites them both, and why it should matter more to the whole industry.
- The current state of the ADI world, including the recent DVSA changes and what they might mean going forward.
- How instructors are perceived by the public, and what it takes to shift that perception.
- Why parents and instructors need to work together more effectively, and what Rachel is looking for in a driving instructor for her own son.
- The psychology behind driving behaviour, coaching, and CPD.
- The truth about awards, social media, influence, and the future of Intelligent Instructor.
It’s thoughtful, honest, funny in all the right places, and gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential people in the industry, even if she still insists she’s “not an instructor.”
If you want a conversation that blends industry insight, real life, humour, and the kind of honesty we need more of, this one’s worth your time.
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