Effectively Combining CPod and Tutor?

Hi All,

I have engaged the services of a native mandarin-speaking teacher here in the US who, while eager to help me learn, is struggling to deliver structured lessons that are both effective and build on one another for long-term success.  To help, I've been using CPod lessons as a base point, studying them and using my teacher to recite them to, but that isn't enough.

Has anyone else had this experience, and even if not, may I ask your kind advice on how a clueless student and teacher can best find productive direction?

Thanks,

David