If you’d told me a few years ago that my work on driving anxiety would take me to the studios of Woman’s Hour on BBC Radio 4, I’d have laughed nervously and said “not a chance”. Yet there I was on Monday, heart thumping (in a good way), waiting to go live on one of the UK’s most iconic radio shows.
The topic? Driving anxiety – something I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome. I spoke about why it happens, why it’s so rarely discussed, and how small, consistent steps can help people regain their confidence behind the wheel.
Walking into Broadcasting House felt surreal. Security checks and badges, waiting areas and a Green Room, (I’ve always wanted to know what it’s like in one of these). Clutching my Driving Journal that I had made copious notes in. I was second on the day’s list, and honestly quite grateful I wasn’t left hanging around. I was brought through to the live studio where the presenter (Kylie Pentelow) was still engaged on the first segment interview with someone on Zoom. I was guided to sit in front of a BBC live microphone. At this point I had an overwhelming urge to clear my throat, but couldn’t as it would be picked up on the mic and there for however many thousands of people tuned. It was all a far cry from my usual environment of car parks and dual carriageways. But in some ways it felt familiar too: a nervous person (me!) about to do something scary for a positive reason.
The subject matter changed to the reason I was invited and initially and the floor was given to another journalist (Mary McCarthy), who was on Zoom from Belgium explaining her issue with motorway driving. Then the presenter brought me in to respond and once I got going I started to feel more calm, like it was having a conversation with one of my clients. We talked about how driving anxiety often begins and about the closed loop of thoughts, feelings and actions that feeds itself until it feels unbreakable.
What struck me most was how many listeners were clearly hungry for this conversation. The texts and emails that came in while I was on air showed me how common driving anxiety really is, and how relieved people feel to know they’re not alone.
What I’ve learned from coaching hundreds of people, and why compassion – not shame – is the key to getting back on the road.
It reminded me of the first time a client told me “I thought I was the only one who felt like this” – that’s exactly why I do what I do.
If you’re one of the many people who feel anxious about driving, please know this:
- You’re not weak or silly – your nervous system is simply trying to keep you safe.
- Confidence is built, not born – and you can rebuild it at any stage of life.
- Small, steady steps work – and you don’t have to do it alone.
I’d prepared so much more to say, but as is the way with live radio, it all went by in a flash! Before I knew it the segment was over.
I came away from the BBC feeling humbled and energised. This conversation is finally reaching a wider audience, and I’m so grateful to everyone who’s supported my work – from clients to colleagues to the Woman’s Hour team.
If you missed the programme, you can listen back here. And if you’d like more tips and encouragement on overcoming driving anxiety, keep an eye on my posts or get in touch – I’m always happy to chat.
Here’s to more open conversations about driving anxiety – and to the courage it takes, whether you’re getting back behind the wheel or stepping into a radio studio for the first time!
I left the studio feeling a mix of relief, gratitude and a huge sense of responsibility to keep this conversation going. So, in the spirit of sharing what I couldn’t squeeze into those few minutes on air, here are some take-aways for anyone struggling with driving anxiety:
What I Wish I’d Had Time to Say on Air
1️⃣ Name the loop.
Notice your thoughts (“I can’t drive there”), your feelings (tight chest, sweaty palms) and your actions (avoiding routes). Awareness is the first step.
2️⃣ Change the story you tell yourself.
The narrative you repeat becomes the reality you live. If you constantly tell yourself “I’ll always be anxious”, your nervous system will believe you. Shift to “I’m not confident… yet” — that single word keeps the door open to change and positive outcomes.
3️⃣ Take tiny steps.
Short, calm drives at quiet times build confidence faster than big scary leaps. Every small success gives your brain evidence for a new story: “I can do this.”
4️⃣ Be your own kind coach.
Self-compassion isn’t indulgence – it regulates your nervous system and fuels progress. The kinder you are, the safer your body feels, the faster you learn.
5️⃣ Get support.
You don’t have to do this alone. A trusted friend, a coach, or a community can keep you moving forward and help you reframe your story when you get stuck.
Two Extra Tips I Love
6️⃣ Build your stress tolerance.
Confidence isn’t about never feeling uncomfortable – it’s about learning to cope with it. One simple way to practise this outside the car is to end your shower with 30 seconds of cold water. It gently trains your nervous system to tolerate discomfort, which can make those first few drives feel less overwhelming.
7️⃣ Use P plates (or your local equivalent).
In the UK, new drivers can display a green “P” plate instead of the red “L” used by learners. It signals to other road users that you may need a little extra space and patience. If you’re outside the UK, check what’s available in your country – a simple sign can help ease the pressure while you rebuild your confidence.
Keep Journaling
During the interview, I spoke about how I encourage people to set goals and track their progress in a journal. If you’d like to dive deeper, I’ve linked to my original blog on why this matters.
My Driving Journal is designed to help you do exactly that — and it’s available in both hard copy (for UK residents) and downloadable formats, so you can choose what works best for you.