Petrol-Saving myths BUSTED!

Episode 96: Petrol saving myths Busted! In this episode, Liz breaks down some Petrol‑Saving Myths that drivers love to repeat, and reveals what actually works. From coasting in neutral to premium fuel hype, we separate fact from fiction so you can drive smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Whether you’re a learner, a supervising driver, or someone who’s been driving for decades, this episode will give you practical tips you can use straight away. If you enjoy the episode, share it with a learner driver, a supervising driver, or that one friend who still insists coasting in neutral is the secret to cheap driving. Supervising drivers: Master Driver Trainer Liz has recorded all of her lessons; from the basics of car controls, pedal control, steering techniques, cornering, roundabouts, all of your manouvers through to Motorway and open road driving. Subscribe to have her teach your Learner driver the correct techniques and procedures that will not only have them pass the test easily, but be safe drivers for life! Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/

Learner plates with Jeannie. In this special episode, Instructor Liz will talk about the requirements for L and P plates and has guest Jeannie from www.learnerhours.com.au sit in to talk about her fantastic Learner plates that will make learner drivers and their supervisors more confident when learning to drive! Jeannie’s fantastic plates are available here: https://learnerhours.com.au/ Use this discount code for the Learner Hours plates: Liz10%off Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/  

Episode 94. Keep left. This episode dives into one of the most misunderstood road rules in Australia: keeping left. Yes, the law says you must keep left on multi‑lane roads over 80 km/h (depending on your State or Territory rules) or when signed — but the real story goes way beyond the legal threshold. Instructor Liz explains why staying left is one of the simplest, most effective safety habits any driver can build, no matter the speed limit. From smoother traffic flow to fewer risky lane changes, better visibility, and helping emergency vehicles get through faster, this episode shows how a small habit can make a big difference. Perfect for learners, supervising drivers, and anyone who’s ever wondered why the right lane isn’t a place to settle in and get comfy. Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/  

Episode 93. The expert interviews: Dr Amanda (Senior Research Fellow, Monash University Accident Research Centre) gave an eye-opening talk at the annual Australian Driver Trainers Association (ADTA) Conference in November. Liz was so intrigued, she asked Amanda if she would be happy to talk about this subject in more detail. The interview had both of them talking on a favourite subject, swapping stories and laughing like old friends! Liz’s guest today is Dr Amanda Stephens. Senior Research Fellow, Monash University Accident Research Centre Amanda has been involved in road safety research for almost two decades and her background is in the psychology behind driver behaviour. Her current research focusses on understanding and addressing the mechanisms behind risky driving behaviour. Particular focus is on aggressive, anti-social or non-compliant driving behaviour. She is currently involved in designing and implementing behaviour modification programs to support drivers in managing emotional, fatigued or inattentive driving. Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/

Episode 92. Parking tips for holiday shopping. Christmas shopping, school holidays, end‑of‑year events… and absolutely nowhere to park. In this festive episode, Liz will unpack the chaos of Christmas parking and share smart, safe, sanity‑saving strategies for learners, supervising drivers, and anyone who’s ever circled a car park muttering “surely someone’s leaving soon”. In this episode, Instructor Liz will give her tips for a calm trip to the shops, making the Christmas chaos easier to deal with. Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/

Stupid driving habits can cost drivers; time, money or more serious consequences. In this episode, Liz takes a lighthearted look at common driving habits, why we do them, and how they affect the road around us. We’ve all seen them — and if we’re honest, most of us have done them too. Those little traits behind the wheel that make driving more challenging than it probably should be. Driving habits are everywhere on our roads, some good, some very bad, but we all have them. In this series, Liz  takes a look at the driving behaviors that cost us, explore why they happen, and how we can try to change our habits. It’s not about finger‑pointing — it’s about understanding the funny, frustrating, and very human side of driving. Along the way, Liz will share stories, insights, and a few laughs, because sometimes the best way to learn is to see ourselves in the mirror — quirks and all. Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/

Driving around Australia with Gav. I was thrilled to sit down with my good mate Gavin to talk about his trip around Australia – including Tasmania – and what adventures he got up to! There was an unexpected side effect of driving solo, which gives a valuable lesson for everyone planning on long drives. His tips and advice will certainly come in handy for me when I finally get around to doing this unforgettable trip. Gavin has a lot of experience with cars, and we have had many conversations over the years, where I am usually well out of my depth with his superior mechanical knowledge, but I have a good time learning! Enjoy his story, Liz. Gav’s car story: Growing up, it was common for dad’s in my neighbourhood to spend weekends doing their own car maintenance. Oil changes, tuning (before electronics) even full engine rebuilds would be done in suburban back yards. Australia had a “culture” based around Bathurst and whether you supported Ford or Holden. My dad owned an XA Ford Fairmont, 5L V8 with 4 speed floor shift which I learned to drive in and borrow a lot of the time for my own mis spent youth, so I’ve always been a “Ford” man at heart, but I can appreciate the engineering/design on any vehicle. I continued the tradition of doing all your own mechanical work beginning with a 1972 Ford TC Cortina (4L inline 6 with T bar Automatic) then a 1967 Ford ZA Fairlane (5L V8 with column shift automatic). I rebuilt the engine for my 1982 Mitsubishi Sigma taking it from a 2L to a modified 2.6L – I also owned a 1985 Nissan 300ZX (N/A 3L V6-5 speed) with Targa Roof and that is where I was forced to start handing over my car to mechanics from time to time due to the need of having specialized tools for certain tasks. Following that, I had a 1988 Nissan “The Ute” which was just a rebadged Ford XF Falcon, closely followed by a 1991 Ford XG Falcon Ute which I drove to many camping adventures before my now 2003 BF Falcon Ute with which I toured the continent and hope to maintain for many more years to come.  

What should happen on your first lesson. With Sonia and Liz Nervous about your first driving lesson? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered (and laughing). In this episode, Liz teams up with the ever-wise and occasionally cheeky Sonia to break down what actually happens when you hop behind the wheel for the very first time. Spoiler: it’s not a Fast & Furious audition. Whether you’re a learner, a supervising driver, or just here for the laughs, this episode is packed with practical advice, gentle reassurance, and a few giggles at our own expense. Think of it as your friendly pep talk before you head out on your first lesson! Supervising drivers: Master Driver Trainer Liz has recorded all of her lessons; from the basics of car controls, pedal control, steering techniques, cornering, roundabouts, all of your manoeuvers through to Motorway and open road driving. Subscribe to have her teach your Learner driver the correct techniques and procedures that will not only have them pass the test easily, but be safe drivers for life! Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/  

Even MORE Aussie Road Rules You May Not Know! Think you’ve mastered the Aussie road rulebook? Think again! In this episode, Instructor Liz will dig up even more obscure, surprising, and downright quirky driving laws that could trip up even the most seasoned drivers. From unexpected rules about leg placement to tinting our windows; we’re serving up road rule revelations with a side of laughs. Perfect for supervising drivers, learners, and anyone who’s ever muttered “Wait… is that actually illegal?” Buckle up—this ride’s full of twists! Full driving lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/

Listener Advisory: This episode contains brief siren sound effects. If you’re listening while driving, please be aware; there may not be an emergency vehicle near you. But as Instructor Liz says: be aware of your surroundings! Emergency Vehicles and Driving Decisions: Insights from a Paramedic. Navigating around emergency vehicles can be one of the most stressful moments for any driver — especially new ones. In this episode, Instructor Liz explores how to respond safely and legally when sirens sound and flashing lights appear, offering calm clarity in what can feel like chaos. Joining the discussion is Zoe, an experienced paramedic who has worked in both Australia and the UK. She shares on-the-ground insights from life in emergency response, highlighting common driving errors and the impact they can have during high-stakes situations. This episode is a must listen to for new and experienced drivers alike! Topics Covered: Key road rules for responding to emergency vehicles in Australia Driver behaviour through the lens of a paramedic The differences between emergency responses in the UK and Australia How calm, confident choices can make all the difference Instructor Liz’s full lessons and instructional videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/