Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow and Margaret Light, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Sex Therapist in the state of Minnesota, discuss a recent murder-suicide within the automotive community. They discuss the alarming statistics surrounding such events, emphasizing the significant role of domestic violence as a predictor. The conversa...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow, an ASE certified Master Automotive Technician, reviews a YouTube video reacting to Google's top questions about car problems. Matt provides his expert insights and clarifications on topics ranging from car batteries, vibrations, and parasitic drains to more complex issues involving EVAP systems and the importance of proper diagnostics. Additi...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow discusses lessons learned from children's movies. He uses films like  The Sandlot ,  Ratatouille , and  Bee Movie  to illustrate principles applicable to managing an auto repair shop, such as team building, recognizing employee potential, and appreciating the value of all tasks. The overarching message emphasizes that...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow shares a story about a mother illustrating the concept of "negative gatekeeping." He connects this to the automotive industry, where subtle criticism of competitors can erode trust and damage customer relationships. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes coveri...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Join us for a dynamic and unfiltered 'Ask Us Anything' Live Stream featuring Matt Fanslow and Brin Kline. This is your chance to get expert advice and insights from those who know the industry inside and out. Why This Matters: Continuing education and asking questions are critical to staying competitive in the ever-evolving automotive industry. Networking with...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow starts out reminiscing about a close call involving his Dad's "cardiac" event. He then brings up raising a son with ADHD and IED, and how he and his wife go to therapy together to learn how to better help him. He then weaves together some stories about his childhood and how validation worked for him, to then compare to modern times, and how there's...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow discusses his experience with a student from a local school who came to job shadow. This encounter highlights the challenges of training newcomers to the automotive repair profession, especially those lacking basic mechanical knowledge. Matt reflects on the student's unpreparedness and the broader issues within automotive education. He emphasizes t...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow draws leadership lessons from King Théoden of Rohan in "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers." Matt explores themes of trust, fear, and alliances, paralleling Théoden's journey with the challenges faced by shop owners and leaders in the automotive industry. He emphasizes the importance of trusting the right advisors, seeking support, and fostering...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow explores common frustrations and misunderstandings in the automotive service industry. Speaking from the perspectives of technicians, managers, owners, and service advisors, he emphasizes the importance of understanding underlying factors in workplace dynamics. Matt discusses the theme of perception, drawing parallels between music, movies, and wor...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Show Notes Back Probing Overview (00:01:14) Challenges with Back Probing (00:02:29) Risks of Back Probing (00:03:48) Wire Gauge and Back Probing Challenges (00:05:03) Teeing Into Circuits (00:06:19) Concerns with Unplugging Connectors (00:07:34) Terminal Fretting Issues (00:09:45) Piercing Wires Discussion (00:11:56) Probing Tools for Piercing (00:13:12) Proper...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow explores the themes of branding and employee culture, inspired by the TV show "Yellowstone." Matt emphasizes the importance of a culture where team members support each other, continuous skill improvement through training and the significance of mentorship. Show Notes Discussion on "Yellowstone" (00:01:11) Branding in the Context of the Show (00:03...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow welcomes mobile diagnostic technician Rich Falco to explore the intriguing parallels between poker strategies and automotive diagnostics. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Discussion on Poker (00:01:02) Evolution of Poker Strategies (00:02:22) Game Theory and Diagnostics (00:04:35) Common Misunderstandings (00:12:07) Real-World Diagnostic Scenari...

Matt Fanslow discusses how genuine curiosity can enhance diagnostic practices and improve interactions with clients and colleagues. Matt emphasizes the importance of approaching situations with curiosity rather than judgment, both in technical diagnostics and workplace relationships. He illustrates how curiosity can lead to more effective repairs and better understanding of employee performance.&n...

Matt Fanslow and licensed marriage and family therapist Margaret Light explore the theme of expectations in interpersonal relationships. Matt Fanslow shares a personal story about trying to surprise his wife and her friend with a thoughtful gesture that didn’t turn out as he’d hoped. This experience opens up a conversation about how expectations are shaped, highlighting the difference between clea...

Oil analysis expert Lake Speed Jr., "The Motor Oil Geek," explains the critical role of oil analysis in diagnosing engine health and performance. Lake Speed Jr. is the son of race car driver Lake Speed Sr. Lake Speed Jr. https://www.speediagnostix.com www.youtube.com/@themotoroilgeek Show Notes Discussion on Friction and Lubrication (00:00:45) Oil Analysis Services (00:02:12) Importance of Trend A...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details. Matt explores integrity and ethical behavior in the automotive repair industry. Using a reality TV challenge show as a metaphor, Matt illustrates how individuals can manipulate sit...

Matt Fanslow leads an in-depth discussion focusing on electric motor current and relative compression tests. Show Notes ACCESS PICO FILES : https://bit.ly/3NgSdvO Overview of Electric Motor Current (00:00:11) Pico Scope Software (00:01:23) Understanding Waveforms (00:02:25) Setting Up Current Probes (00:04:09) Disabling the Fuel System (00:06:14) Configuring the Oscilloscope (00:07:18) Testing Cur...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow dives into the intricacies of customer interactions within the automotive repair industry, highlighting the critical role of communication, trust, and validation. He draws insightful comparisons between personal relationships and client engagements, noting how defensive behavior from employees can undermine trust. Matt underscores the importance of...

Rapid Fire Questions with Tracy Capriotto! Watch Full Video Episode Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details. Contact Information Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Th...

Matt Fanslow addresses misconceptions in the automotive repair industry, focusing on a viral social media video about tire repair. Matt explains the importance of following manufacturer protocols, the risks of improper repairs, and the need for ongoing consumer education. He emphasizes the long-term integrity of honest repairs and advises consumers to ask questions rather than assume malintent fro...

Matt Fanslow explores the parallels between women's basketball and the automotive repair industry. Highlighting Caitlin Clark's exceptional impact on women's sports, Matt discusses how her achievements should be celebrated rather than downplayed. He critiques the tendency of some WNBA players to undermine Clark's success, likening it to the automotive industry's habit of disparaging competitors. M...

Matt Fanslow shares experiences with new hires at the shop, highlighting their questions about air conditioning systems and diagnostic processes. Using a crossword puzzle analogy from Jorge Menchu, Matt illustrates effective diagnostic strategies, stressing the importance of starting with 'simpler' problems to build understanding and gain confidence. Matt praises Jorge for his impact on diagnostic...

Matt Fanslow explores the contentious topic of whether employees should give a two weeks notice when leaving a job. He challenges the power dynamics and expectations between employees and employers, questioning the fairness of this common practice. Matt highlights the lack of reciprocity from employers regarding severance packages and the potential negative impact on future job references if notic...

Inspired by a listener's question, Matt discusses the physical limitations that come with age and the need for early planning and skill diversification. The episode highlights the importance of adaptability and collaboration to ensure aging mechanics remain valuable in the automotive industry. Show Notes Future Planning for Retirement (00:02:38) Physical Limitations and Career Transition (00:03:57...

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech "Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z," podcast host Matt Fanslow and guest Bryan Pollock, "The Beast from the East," explore "sweat equity" in the automotive repair industry. They discuss the dedication technicians invest beyond regular hours, contributing to personal growth and shop success. They emphasize mentorship, financial awareness, and community involveme...