Matt Fanslow and Chris Jones, editor for Ratchet+Wrench and Endeavor Business Media, discuss the similarities between sports and business, focusing on talent development, leadership, and team dynamics. The conversation covers the importance of creating a winning culture, being open to new opportunities, and the impact of long-term thinking versus short-term decisions. They also touch on the role of leadership in fostering a supportive environment and the parallels between a football team's...

Matt Fanslow and guest Margaret Light tackle the subject of pornography and its effects on relationships. They discuss the challenges of addressing porn use, the avoidance of the topic in relationships, and the importance of open, respectful communication. They explore the emotional regulation aspect of pornography, the influence of media on sexual expectations, and the need for comprehensive sexual education. The conversation also covers ethical porn consumption, the impact of porn on...

Matt Fanslow covers strategies for engaging high school students, debunking industry myths, and the importance of talent over passion in choosing a career. The episode aims to inspire a new generation to explore the diverse and rewarding paths within auto repair. Show Notes Ideas for Engaging Students (00:01:19)Addressing Misconceptions (00:07:59) Value of Skill and Talent (00:13:41) Changing the value system (00:19:04) Impact of artificial intelligence (00:21:21) Future of Auto Repair...

Matt Fanslow discusses the importance of automotive repair shops setting a barometer for the value they provide. He compares this to consumer and professional products in other industries, like lawnmowers and chainsaws, to illustrate differences in quality. Show Notes Comparing lawnmowers and chainsaws (00:01:14) Demonstrating value in automotive repair (00:10:46) Marketing and communication strategy (00:12:57) Setting the barometer through demonstration (00:15:22) Utilizing social media and...

Matt Fanslow tackles the misunderstood relationship between profit and greed in business. He references the YouTube Short "Farmer Does the Right Thing on Shark Tank," using the comments section as a springboard to discuss public perceptions of profit. Show Notes The association of profit with greed (00:00:11) Matt discusses the perception of profit as a negative concept and its association with greed in business.YouTube short "Farmer Does the Right Thing Shark Tank" (00:01:14) Matt talks...

Mo Ali from Lock Labs discusses the challenges facing the automotive locksmith industry due to new credential requirements for accessing the immobilizer functions on aftermarket tools. Mo also discusses the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) and the Vehicle Security Professional credentials. It's not just about cutting keys; it's about navigating a maze of electronics, modules, and regulations.  Show Notes NASTF and Vehicle Security Professional credentials (00:02:32) Impact of...

Matt Fanslow explores the similarities between gaming and automotive diagnostic work. He uses the game "Elden Ring" as an example to discuss the importance of learning from mistakes, adapting strategies, and persevering through challenges—skills that are also vital in the automotive industry. Show Notes Gaming and the Lessons from Elden Ring (00:00:11) The Importance of Training for Technicians (00:11:08) Exploring and Embracing Challenges in Gaming and Real-world Diagnostics (00:12:08) Free...

"Would you be willing to pay extra for certain classes?"  Email Matt: [email protected] Email Sean: [email protected] Matt Fanslow and Sean Tipping from the Automotive Diagnostic Podcast discuss what makes for a great automotive training class. They emphasize the importance of practical application, engaging instruction, and a balance between theory and hands-on experience. They also highlight the qualities of an effective instructor and the value of hands-on training. Show...

Matt Fanslow explores the complexities of electricity in automotive diagnostics. He breaks down fundamental concepts of volts, amps, resistance, and Ohm's law, using practical examples to clarify their roles in vehicle electrical systems. Show Notes Challenges of Explaining Electricity (00:01:15) Fundamental Aspects of Electricity (00:02:42) NAPA Auto Tech Training (00:18:20)Understanding Voltmeter Readings (00:19:21) Ground Reference and Voltage Drop (00:20:29) Effect of Resistance on...

Matt Fanslow explores the analogy between running a repair shop and the world of dating. He shares insights on first impressions, trust-building, and the value of substance over style in both customer relationships and shop management. Matt emphasizes the need for repair shops to maintain high standards of service and to view customer feedback as opportunities for growth. Show Notes Dating in Modern Times (00:01:15) Comparison of modern dating to historical dating and personal experiences...

Have you discovered the power of training conferences? It’s not just the learning—it's the collaboration of minds, the shared experiences, and the connections that make them invaluable.  Show Notes Reflections on Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2024 (00:01:32) Personal observations and experiences at the Vision 2024 conference.Hands-On Key Cutting Class (00:02:39) Description of a hands-on key cutting class, including the tools and sponsors involved.Scan Tool Class and Discussions...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com Matt Fanslow and Tanner Brandt discuss the nuances of automotive training and education. They emphasize the importance of selecting relevant classes that address specific areas of struggle within the industry, such as diagnosing parasitic battery drains. They highlight the complexities of troubleshooting and the limitations of current diagnostic tools, underscoring the need for better vehicle monitoring. The conversation also touches on...

Matt Fanslow and guest Justin Morgan tackle various issues within the automotive industry during a live "Ask Us Anything" session. They discuss the struggle for industry respect, the challenges small shops face, and the crucial role of specialization. The conversation highlights the importance of training for staff development and the difficulties in motivating technicians to attend. They also explore the impact of influential figures on training, the dynamics between shop owners and...

Donny Seyfer from the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) discusses the importance of ongoing training for technicians and the challenges they face in accessing information and tools. Seyfer emphasizes the need for collaboration with automakers and lawmakers to improve security measures and technical support. Show Notes Family Background and Career Journey (00:02:23) Donny Seyfer shares his family's history in the automotive industry and his journey into the professional...

Find out how the movie Mrs. Doubtfire relates to the automotive industry. Matt Fanslow explores the motivation behind self-improvement and giving credit when using someone else's knowledge or ideas. Show Notes Mrs. Doubtfire Movie Analysis (00:01:05) Analysis of the movie "Mrs. Doubtfire" and its characters, discussing the dynamics of the relationships and the impact on the main character's behavior.Motivation and Improvement (00:03:23) Exploration of the motivation to improve, drawing...

In this episode of "Diagnosing the Aftermarket," host Matt Fanslow tackles the issue of motivating technicians to attend training. He shares personal experiences and the sacrifices he made to enhance his skills, acknowledging the difficulty of balancing training with work and family life. Matt discusses the intrinsic motivation required for technicians to seek training and the resistance some may have. He stresses the importance of continuous learning in the automotive industry and invites...

Aircraft mechanic Alicia Pollock shares her journey from aspiring astronaut to aircraft mechanic, emphasizing the extensive documentation required in her field. She discusses the detailed record-keeping for each maintenance task, the specialized training for different aircraft components, and the importance of precision and safety. The conversation also highlights the rigorous testing and practical exams for aircraft mechanics, contrasting the strict regulations in aviation with the...

Matt Fanslow dives into personal territory, discussing his father's health and the impact it has had on his perspective. He reflects on the changing nature of his aspirations and the delicate balance between pursuing goals and being thankful for current blessings. Show Notes with Timestamps Father's Health Update (00:00:12) Matt discusses his father's health, including his assisted living, heart condition, and recovery.Changing Hopes and Wishes (00:02:34) Matt reflects on how his hopes and...

Matt Fanslow and guest Margaret Light, a licensed marriage and family therapist, dive into the complexities of grief. They discuss the inevitability of loss, the importance of acknowledging grief, and strategies for self-support during the grieving process, such as maintaining routines and honoring loved ones. They also cover how to support others who are grieving, offering practical help and emotional support. The conversation touches on the challenges of dealing with grief in the workplace...

Matt Fanslow recounts the emotional journey of his father's sudden cardiac event days before Christmas 2023. He shares the shock and vulnerability felt during this crisis, the critical role of CPR performed by his brother, and the agonizing wait for medical updates. He describes the importance of empathy, direct communication from doctors, and maintaining hope amidst uncertainty. Matt's story underscores the fragility of life and the need to cherish every moment with loved ones. Thanks to our...

Are shop owners blindly giving out benchmarks/blindly following them? Matt Fanslow, Jeff Barnes, and Bryan Pollack discuss the challenges in the automotive industry, including the overload of information, the lack of standard practices, and the need to understand specific business models. They also discuss the complications of hiring a diagnostic technician, the importance of career development opportunities, the importance of marketing, the challenges of investing in equipment, financial...

Matt Fanslow pays tribute to the late Jim Linder. Matt reflects on his experiences attending Linder's training classes and conferences, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning for technicians. Matt encourages listeners to remember influential figures in the automotive industry and to invest time in learning about their contributions. Show Notes with Timestamps Jim Linder's Legacy (00:01:18) Jim Linder's contributions to the automotive industry, particularly in fuel injector...

Carm Capriotto and Matt Fanslow dive into the increasing role of technology in the automotive industry and how it's revolutionizing the way we approach vehicle repairs and maintenance. They propose the term "Technology Specialist" for automotive technicians, emphasizing the importance of their expertise. This designation not only acknowledges their expertise in handling advanced vehicle technology but also elevates their professional standing. Changing the language and perception of...

Recently, Matt and his wife, Danielle, embarked on a kitchen renovation journey. Danielle, like many customers, feared being taken advantage of during the process. These concerns may seem illogical to some, but the fear of not getting our money's worth is real and relatable. While listening to Danielle's worries, Matt was reminded of the movie "My Fair Lady." The character is willing to pay a shilling to learn how to speak eloquently. While a shilling may be insignificant to some, it...