The Art of Confident Driving

Liz Lafferty · theartofconfidentdriving.com

Instructor Liz has now recorded her very popular driving lessons in podcast format, for every driver to have access to! Liz has been training drivers of all ages and abilities since 1997. From understanding basics to complex manoeuvres, she will talk you through her proven methods and procedures that guarantee happy, safe and confident driving. For full driving lesson episodes and videos search: theartofconfidentdriving or Liz Lafferty

47 episodes

21d ago latest

monthly cadence

English language

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Episodes 47

Stupid Driving Habits: Indicating! With Sonia and Liz
21d ago · 31:09
Episode 101. Indicating Incorrectly! Why do so many drivers act like indicators are an optional extra? In this episode of The Art of Confident Driving, Liz and Sonia have a laugh discussing , when, how and why drivers should use their indicators. They take a myth‑busting look at the humble indicator/blinker/turn signal — the lever that could prevent chaos but somehow doesn’t. From everyday Aussie road moments to the psychology behind “non‑indicators,” this episode blends humour, advocacy, and practical advice for learners and supervisors alike. Fully licenced drivers, tradies and professional
Episode 100. The Questions Learner Drivers Ask!
1mo ago · 20:32
Episode 100. Questions Learner Drivers ask. We’ve officially hit EPISODE 100 of The Art of Confident Driving! To celebrate, Liz and her daughter jump into the car together for a milestone episode full of laughter, learner questions, and the wonderfully silly things people ask when they’re trying to understand the vehicle, road rules and preparing for the driving test. Confidence isn’t about perfection — it’s about curiosity, laughter, and learning from every drive. Learner drivers can ask some interesting questions! Whether you’re a learner driver, a supervising driver, or just here for the la
The Expert Interviews: Russell White; Road Safety Guru
3mo ago · 40:28
Episode 99. Russell White, Australia’s Road safety expert joins Liz in this episode, to highlight the mistakes many drivers make, the influences that contribute to the road toll, and how doing small things as a driver can make a huge difference to not only our own driving happiness, but also those road users around us! Russell and Liz started their road safety journey around the same time, bringing more than a collective 55 years of driver training to this chat. Russell White Managing Director Driver Safety Australia and Founder and Chair of the Australian Road Safety Foundation Australian Roa
The Expert Interviews: Anxious Drivers with Dr. Amanda Stephens
3mo ago · 27:56
Anxious drivers. Why do some drivers feel their heart race the moment they turn the key? In this episode, Liz sits down with Dr Amanda Stephens, a leading researcher in driver psychology, to unpack what’s really happening behind the wheel when anxiety takes over. Together, they explore: how stress and fear affect driving performance the difference between cautious and anxious driving practical strategies to rebuild confidence on the road what instructors and supervising drivers can do to help Whether you’re a learner, a parent, or a professional instructor, this conversation reveals how unders
The Learning Journey
4mo ago · 13:15
Episode 97. The Learning Journey. In this episode, Liz dives into the real, and sometimes very emotional side of learning to drive — the part no one warns you about. From frustration and plateaus to breakthroughs and confidence, we explore why progress is rarely a straight line and how emotions can either stall or supercharge learning. Liz also shares a personal story from her karate training: the kata she just couldn’t get… until she could. It’s a powerful parallel to what every learner driver experiences — the moment where persistence finally pays off. Whether you’re a learner, a parent, or
Stupid Driving Habits: Late Braking with Sonia and Liz
4mo ago · 26:31
In this episode, Liz and Sonia dive into one of the most common (and secretly funniest) learner‑driver habits: leaving the braking just a bit too late. Between the two of them, they’ve seen every version — the hopeful “I think I’ve got this”, the silent internal panic, and the classic wide‑eyed “oh no oh no oh no” moment as the car ahead gets closer… and closer. Expect plenty of laughs, real stories from the instructor’s seat, and practical tips to help learners (and supervising drivers) understand why late braking happens and how to fix it without drama. If you’ve ever clutched the door handl
Petrol-Saving myths BUSTED!
5mo ago · 14:28
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 secr
Learner plates with Jeannie
6mo ago · 19:05
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/
Keep Left, Stay Safe: The rule many drivers get wrong!
7mo ago · 14:23
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 sm
The Expert Interviews: Dr Amanda Stephens; Dealing with aggressive driving
7mo ago · 33:36
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 a
Parking tips for Christmas shopping
8mo ago · 10:30
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://theartofconfidentdrivi
Stupid Driving Habits: Road signs and markings
10mo ago · 10:22
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 chan
Driving around Australia with Gav
11mo ago · 35:25
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 ha
What should happen on your first lesson. With Sonia and Liz
1y ago · 30:01
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
Even MORE Aussie road rules you may not know!
1y ago · 12:46
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
Lesson 48. Emergency Vehicles
1y ago · 21:21
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 disc
Test fails and how to fix them.
1y ago · 18:27
Failed your driving test? You aren’t the only one. You didn’t get through. Your palms were sweaty, your indicators were… occasional, and your confidence is in a crumpled heap on the floor of the car. Whether you missed a mirror check, mounted a curb, or just forgot to check you speed —this is your second-chance starter pack. Instructor Liz will talk you through what went wrong and how to fix the mistakes, so you don’t have the same problem on the next test. Real tips. Real talk. From the instructor who’s seen it all and solved it. Listen to this episode to turn that fail frown upside-down! Ful
Bonus Lesson: Hook Turns with Instructor Courtenay
1y ago · 16:05
Bonus Lesson: Hook Turns with Courtenay Rufus from CRUDE driving. In this bonus lesson, we’re tackling one of Melbourne’s most unique driving manouvers—the hook turn. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why right turns happen from the left lane, this episode will provide the clarity you need. Courtenay from CRUDE Driving joins Instructor Liz to break down this distinctive rule, ensuring you’re ready to navigate Melbourne’s streets with confidence. See more of Courtenay here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CRUDEUltimateDrivingEducation/ Website: https://www.crudedriving.com.au/education
Tailgating: Road Rage or Rookie mistake?
1y ago · 15:40
Tailgating is one of the biggest complaints about other drivers! Many people do it or are victims of it. Tailgating is also one of the main causes of crashes in the world today. Are you guilty of it? In this episode, Instructor Liz will explain why other drivers tailgate and what to do do prevent it. Picture credit: TMR Qld Instructor Liz’s full driving lessons and videos are available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/
Driving in Cyclones
1y ago · 12:11
Navigating through adverse weather conditions can be challenging! Cyclone Alfred put South East Queensland on high alert and left many of us feeling anxious. In this episode, Instructor Liz will share her insights and recommendations for driving in poor weather, as well as the types of driving conditions you might face. Full driving lesson episodes and instructional videos are accessible here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/
Tyre care or “Don’t drive on anything that isn’t road!”
1y ago · 12:43
Tyre/tire care or as Instructor Liz says, “Don’t drive on anything that isn’t road!” In this episode, Instructor Liz explains what you should do to get the most value for money out of your tyres, as well as how to avoid costly repairs! As the photo shows, discarded coach screws left on the roads can certainly do major damage. Full driving lessons and instructional videos from a professional instructor of 27 years available here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/
Driving Test Tips 2
1y ago · 14:23
Driving Test Tips 2. Instructor Liz gives more of her advice to make passing the practical driving test first go, much more likely! Her structured lessons have ensured that her pass rate has not fallen under 95% (first attempt) in the last 10 years, so by listening to this episode, you will understand why her students pass the test easily and confidently. For full Instructor Liz’s full driving lessons, click here: https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/
The Instructor Interviews: Sonia – mistakes parents make
1y ago · 23:36
Instructor Sonia joins Liz this week to talk about her experience as a parent teaching 2 of her children, then as an instructor teaching her other 2 kids! Both instructors talk about the more common mistakes parents/carers and supervising drivers make. This is a must listen episode for all parents new to supervising a learner driver. https://www.facebook.com/drivewithsonia https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/
Season 3! And Driver Trainer ego
1y ago · 12:49
Season 3. Welcome to season 3, where Instructor Liz graduates to her P2 podcast licence! It’s been an exciting couple of seasons in 1 and 2, with the bulk of Liz’s driving lessons being available to subscribers, this season, Liz will be interviewing some educational and fun guests as well as completing her Learn to Drive podcast programme. Join her in this season opening for a couple of stories where we find out that too big of an ego makes for poor driving educators! Full driving lessons are available on apple podcast or https://theartofconfidentdriving.com/ which include instructional videos
Mini Lesson – Motorway Merging
2y ago · 12:54
Motorway merging can be challenging for not only learner drivers, but many fully licenced drivers. In this episode, Instructor Liz will be giving her top 5 tips for merging on to motorways and highways to make you more confident and happier when attempting this procedure. From Liz: Please remember the basic road rule of “Keep Left” for all multi-laned roads! Be aware that other drivers have different levels of driving skills. DO NOT cut in front of trucks. Please use a courtesy wave if someone “lets you in” the lane. Allow extra travel time for traffic, and finally, keep in mind, we all want t

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The Art of Confident Driving

Episodes 47

Stupid Driving Habits: Indicating! With Sonia and Liz

Episode 100. The Questions Learner Drivers Ask!

The Expert Interviews: Russell White; Road Safety Guru

The Expert Interviews: Anxious Drivers with Dr. Amanda Stephens

The Learning Journey

Stupid Driving Habits: Late Braking with Sonia and Liz

Petrol-Saving myths BUSTED!

Learner plates with Jeannie

Keep Left, Stay Safe: The rule many drivers get wrong!

The Expert Interviews: Dr Amanda Stephens; Dealing with aggressive driving

Parking tips for Christmas shopping

Stupid Driving Habits: Road signs and markings

Driving around Australia with Gav

What should happen on your first lesson. With Sonia and Liz

Even MORE Aussie road rules you may not know!

Lesson 48. Emergency Vehicles

Test fails and how to fix them.

Bonus Lesson: Hook Turns with Instructor Courtenay

Tailgating: Road Rage or Rookie mistake?

Driving in Cyclones

Tyre care or “Don’t drive on anything that isn’t road!”

Driving Test Tips 2

The Instructor Interviews: Sonia – mistakes parents make

Season 3! And Driver Trainer ego

Mini Lesson – Motorway Merging

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Episodes 47

Stupid Driving Habits: Indicating! With Sonia and Liz

Episode 100. The Questions Learner Drivers Ask!

The Expert Interviews: Russell White; Road Safety Guru

The Expert Interviews: Anxious Drivers with Dr. Amanda Stephens

The Learning Journey

Stupid Driving Habits: Late Braking with Sonia and Liz

Petrol-Saving myths BUSTED!

Learner plates with Jeannie

Keep Left, Stay Safe: The rule many drivers get wrong!

The Expert Interviews: Dr Amanda Stephens; Dealing with aggressive driving

Parking tips for Christmas shopping

Stupid Driving Habits: Road signs and markings

Driving around Australia with Gav

What should happen on your first lesson. With Sonia and Liz

Even MORE Aussie road rules you may not know!

Lesson 48. Emergency Vehicles

Test fails and how to fix them.

Bonus Lesson: Hook Turns with Instructor Courtenay

Tailgating: Road Rage or Rookie mistake?

Driving in Cyclones

Tyre care or “Don’t drive on anything that isn’t road!”

Driving Test Tips 2

The Instructor Interviews: Sonia – mistakes parents make

Season 3! And Driver Trainer ego

Mini Lesson – Motorway Merging