Automobile University: How I Turned My Commute Into a Classroom
If there’s one investment that’s paid off more than any other in my life, it’s this: I enrolled in Automobile University at 18 years old, and I’ve never dropped out.
I first heard the concept from Zig Ziglar, who noted how much time we spend in our cars. Most people waste it. But what if we used that time to grow?
That question changed everything for me.
For over two decades, I’ve used my drive time to learn, through audiobooks, podcasts, trainings, and courses. And it’s shaped how I lead, how I think, and who I’m becoming.
The Power of Automobile University
Let’s do the math.
The average American spends over 300 hours a year in the car. That’s the equivalent of a full college semester. Over a decade, you’ve earned a master’s in whatever you’ve been feeding your mind.
But most people let that time slip away.
I made a different choice. I decided my car would be a classroom. And that one shift has been a secret weapon in my growth as a leader.
What I’ve Learned From the Road
I’ve logged thousands of miles, and hundreds of hours, learning from some of the best minds in business, faith, and personal growth.
Business & Leadership
- Dan Martell — Scaling with systems and building efficient teams
- Donald Miller — Clarifying brand messaging and team communication
- Patrick Lencioni — Creating healthy teams and leading with vulnerability
- Alex Hormozi — Tactical business strategy and sales
Faith & Ministry
- Linda Dew-Hiersoux — Her faith and service continue to shape mine
- Matt Smith — My brother’s ministry has deeply impacted my own leadership
- Adam Hamilton — Insightful, accessible teaching that strengthens my spiritual foundation
- Yvi Martin — Her wisdom always brings perspective and clarity
Personal Growth & Mindset
- John Maxwell — Timeless leadership development
- James Clear — How habits shape identity and long-term success
- Brené Brown — Leading with courage, vulnerability, and truth
Every mile driven became a mile gained in perspective, clarity, and capacity.
How to Enroll in Automobile University
Want to turn your commute into your most consistent leadership rhythm? Start here:
1. Be Intentional
Decide right now: your car isn’t just transportation, it’s transformation. Plan what you’ll listen to.
2. Curate Your Learning List
Pick content that aligns with where you want to grow. Ask yourself:
- What’s the skill I need most right now?
- Who do I want to learn from?
3. Make It a Habit
Short commute? Queue up quick podcasts or short-form learning.
Long drive? Dive into audiobooks or in-depth trainings.
Every trip becomes an opportunity.
4. Take Action on What You Learn
Learning without action is just entertainment. After each session, ask:
- What’s one insight I can apply today?
- How does this shape how I lead, parent, or show up?
The ROI of Learning on the Go
The biggest excuse I hear is: “I don’t have time.”
But you don’t need more time. You just need to use the time you already have, on purpose.
That’s what Automobile University has done for me.
Instead of frustration in traffic, I arrive energized.
Instead of zoning out, I’m zoning in.
And over time, those hours compound into wisdom.
Final Thought: Your Car Can Take You Further Than You Think
Your car is already moving you physically. What if it could move you mentally, professionally, and spiritually?
You don’t have to go back to school. You just have to shift what you do behind the wheel.
So here’s my challenge to you:
Pick one book, podcast, or course this week.
Start it on your next drive.
Turn your car into a classroom, and watch what happens next.
You’ll never look at your commute the same way again.
Next Step: Build a Personal Growth Rhythm That Sticks
If you're ready to turn more of your everyday moments into growth opportunities, I’ve created a free resource to help you take the next step.
Download the 30-Day Leadership Growth Plan
It’s a simple, actionable guide built around four daily habits and one monthly rhythm that will help you:
- Lead with clarity
- Build consistency
- Align your time with what matters most
You don’t need more hours in the day, you just need better rhythms.
How I Turned My Commute into One of My Greatest Growth Habits
In this short video, I share how I turned my commute into one of the most consistent growth rhythms of my life, and how you can do the same.
▶ Watch: How to Turn Your Commute into a Classroom
From audiobooks to podcasts, I’ve learned that your car can be more than just transportation, it can be transformation. This simple shift has fueled my growth as a leader for over two decades, and I believe it can do the same for you.
About Tyler Smith
Tyler Smith is the co-founder and CEO of Text In Church, a communication platform built to help churches connect with their people beyond Sunday mornings. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Tyler shares practical strategies to help church and business leaders grow with clarity and confidence.
He’s a husband, dad, and lifelong learner who’s passionate about building systems that empower people and strengthen communities.
👉 Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn for more leadership and communication insights.
