Automotive Field Theory

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

Matt Fanslow reflects on his early experiences in the automotive industry. He discusses the struggles and challenges he faced, as well as the opportunities that led him to specialize in diagnostics. Matt emphasizes the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and hands-on experience.

Show Notes

• A former employee (00:01:14) Discussion about a former employee's misconceptions about success in the automotive industry.
• Early career experiences (00:02:33) Details about Matt's upbringing on a farm, education, and early jobs at a Ford dealership.
• Challenges in the dealership environment (00:04:56) Struggles faced in adapting to the dealership environment and the lack of proper training.
• Transition to a parts store (00:12:00) Transition to working at a parts store, experiences with computer-based systems, and forming relationships with different shops.
• Career transition to a repair shop (00:15:44) Taking a pay cut to work at a repair shop, focusing on diagnostics.
• Importance of training and education (00:16:53) Dedication to learning through training, reading industry publications, and attending classes.
• Napa Autotech Training (00:19:17) Promotion of various training sessions offered by Napa Autotech for automotive professionals.
• Drive for Improvement (00:21:33) Personal reflections on the drive to improve skills and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.
• Overcoming Failure (00:23:51) Reflections on overcoming failure.
• Resilience and Growth (00:24:42) Discussion on getting knocked down, learning from failures, and using setbacks as a springboard for long-term success.
• Continuous Improvement (00:26:17) Emphasis on the importance of continuous improvement and the value of dedication and hard work.
• Striving for Excellence (00:27:37) Encouragement to find inspiration, work hard, and strive for excellence in the automotive industry.
• Perseverance and Improvement (00:28:49) Personal experiences of overcoming challenges and the importance of creating an environment for improvement in automotive shops.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Matt Fanslow discusses the importance of forming relationships with tool truck dealers. He emphasizes the benefits of sharing information and knowledge, highlighting the potential for mutual support and collaboration within the automotive industry. 

Show Notes

• Interactions with Tool Dealers (00:01:08) Discussion on the visits by tool dealers and the challenges in communicating needs and preferences to them.
• Developing Relationships (00:02:15) Importance of developing relationships with tool dealers, outside salespeople, and distributors, emphasizing the need for networking and knowledge sharing.
• Challenges with Tool Offerings (00:03:37) Exploration of the limitations and challenges in the offerings of tool dealers, including the lack of awareness about alternative products.
• Quid Pro Quo in Information Sharing (00:05:03) Discussion on the concept of quid pro quo, where information sharing with tool dealers can lead to mutual benefits over time.
• Challenges Faced by Tool Dealers (00:06:14) Insight into the challenges faced by tool dealers in keeping up with product knowledge.
• Enhancing Relationships with Tool Dealers (00:13:04) Encouragement for forming strong relationships with tool dealers, emphasizing the mutual exchange of knowledge and support.
• Expanding Services and Product Offerings (00:16:01) Exploration of the potential for expanding services and product offerings, including high voltage gloves and technical tools, to support the evolving needs of automotive professionals.
• Symbiotic Relationship with Tool Dealers (00:17:19) Emphasis on the symbiotic relationship between automotive professionals and tool dealers, highlighting the mutual benefits of collaboration.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow and Carm Capriotto, from the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast, discuss their experiences at the NAPA Autotech Training Research Center in Canton, Ohio. They emphasize the importance of accurate and applicable training, lifelong learning, safety, and respect when working with electrified vehicles, and the evolving technology in the automotive industry.

Show Notes

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Inspiration for podcast topics (00:01:49) 
• Assisting other shops (00:02:40) 
• Value of training (00:08:08)
• Understanding EV technology (00:04:20) 
• Accuracy in training (00:09:32) 
• Respecting electricity in EVs (00:15:39) 
• Importance of training and safety protocols (00:17:05) 
• Impact of EVs on the automotive industry (00:20:21) 
• Need for reading service information (00:21:22)
• Educating and preparing for EV repair (00:26:27) 
• Importance of owner's involvement in training (00:31:15) 
• Autonomous Vehicles and Training Challenges (00:32:13)
• NFL Hall of Fame Visit (00:34:36) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow discusses the importance of understanding technicians' value, open communication about compensation, and collaborative problem-solving.

Show Notes

• Dutch Silverstein - Straight Talk to Technicians [E018]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/018
• Dutch Silverstein - Straight Talk to Technicians - Part 2 [E046]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/046
• Challenges Faced by Managers and Owners (00:01:30) 
• Demand for Better Compensation (00:02:43) 
• Assessing Value and Increasing Compensation (00:04:28) 
• Honest Conversations and Fear (00:05:54) 
• Hierarchy and Fairness (00:10:16) 
• Improving Communication and Grace (00:15:52) 
• Achieving Collective Success (00:18:12) 
• Recognizing Flaws in the System (00:19:28) 
• Taking a Step Back to Move Forward (00:20:58) 
• Accepting Criticism and Turning It into a Positive (00:22:05) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow reflects on the life and career of basketball legend Bill Walton. Matt discusses Walton's achievements, his Hall of Fame status, and Walton's positive attitude and influence.

Show Notes

• Bill Walton's College Years (00:01:14) 
• Bill Walton's NBA Career (00:02:48) 
• Walton's Broadcasting Career (00:10:40) 
• Walton's Philosophy and Legacy (00:14:02) 
• NBA's 75 Greatest Players (00:20:50)
• Bill Walton's Legacy (00:22:00) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

"In the world of automotive repair, specialization can be key to success." Elijah McMillan, shares his journey into key programming. Interestingly, he took over from mobile locksmiths, opting out of car-related services, a reminder that knowing your niche and capabilities is vital.

Elijah also works on Hybrid vehicles. He's specialized in hybrid repair, particularly with the Toyota Prius. Adding keys to these vehicles might seem daunting, but it’s an integral part of servicing hybrids.

Did you know that dealers often sell keys at a loss? Elijah McMillan shone a light on this surprising fact. Locksmiths can carve out a lucrative space in the market by strategically stocking fobs and utilizing the right tools, like the OTIS system for Volkswagens. Efficiency and preparedness can turn challenges into profitable opportunities.

• Key programming and aftermarket tools
• Obtaining a VSP (Vehicle Security Professional) license
• Challenges and opportunities of offering key programming services
• Hybrid vehicle repair, particularly with Toyota Prius models
• High voltage battery repair in Prius Gen 2 models
• Quality repairs and competitive warranties
• Automotive industry in Michigan and industry events
• Key fobs and inventory management
• Impact of key programming tools on business
• Importance of staying informed about the latest technology in the automotive industry

Matt Fanslow explores the concept of zero-sum games in life and business, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition. He uses professional wrestling as an analogy for teamwork, discusses the value of continuous training, and advocates for ethical business practices and the benefits of a supportive industry network.

Show Notes

• Zero Sum Games (00:01:18)
• Professional Wrestling as an Example (00:03:59) 
• NAPA Auto Tech Training Programs (00:07:45)
• Shifting Marketing Strategy (00:10:09) 
• Raising Perceived Value (00:15:09) 
• Creating a Zero-Sum Situation (00:19:59) 
• Rising Tide Lifts All Boats (00:21:06) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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 offense and defense with the front and back of the shop in auto repair.

Show Notes

• The parallels between sports and business (00:00:40) 
• Mark Cuban's practicality and work ethic (00:01:11) 
• Examples of underestimated talent in sports (00:11:13) 
• The importance of work environment (00:15:42) 
• Players leaving toxic environments (00:17:19) 
• Players restructuring contracts (00:18:39)
• Finding talent beyond high draft picks (00:22:21) 
• Building a winning culture (00:26:00) 
• Isaiah Thomas and the New York Knicks (00:32:13) 
• Aging Player Syndrome (00:34:35) 
• Creating an Environment for Talent to Succeed (00:35:52) 
• Impact of Compensation Structure (00:37:15) 
• Respect for Time and Collaboration (00:39:28) 
• Leadership and Culture in Sports and Business (00:40:37) 
• Cultural Impact of Key Players (00:43:24) 
• Leadership and Passion for Winning (00:47:42) 
• The comparison between football and shop management (00:48:25) 
• Managing and improving shop performance (00:50:36) 
• Evaluating talent and maintaining a positive culture (00:54:51) 
• The role of the coach in shaping the team's culture (00:58:45) 
• The intense competitiveness and dedication of Michael Jordan (01:03:05)
• Draymond Green's Incident (01:05:17) 
• Warriors Culture (01:06:32)
• Durant's Leadership (01:07:30) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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 relational dynamics, and the benefits of seeking therapy for related issues.

Margaret Light, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, [email protected], Equilibrium Therapy and Services

Show Notes

• Professional language debate (00:03:15) Margaret Light discusses the professional debate around the language and terminology used in the field of pornography addiction.
• Impact of pornography on sexual health and education (00:07:43) 
• Unrealistic expectations and objectification (00:08:29) 
• Warning signs of problematic pornography use (00:11:06) 
• Ethical considerations of paying for porn (00:13:55) 
• Dependency on porn for sexual activity (00:17:48) 
• Acceptable use of pornography (00:19:23) 
• The impact of hiding porn (00:19:37) 
• Understanding relational problems (00:20:06) 
• Individual perspective on porn use (00:20:53) 
• Shame and embarrassment associated with porn (00:21:28) 
• Pornography as an emotion regulation tool (00:23:29)
• Expanding coping skills (00:25:00)
• Neuroplasticity and brain rewiring (00:29:25) 
• Realistic expectations for change (00:30:34) 
• The impact of content on user preferences (00:35:17) 
• Media influence on body image and fantasies (00:36:51) 
• Porn Industry and Inclusive Content (00:38:51) 
• Adolescent Education on Pornography (00:39:27) 
• Mainstream Influence and Adolescent Expectations (00:41:10) 
• Accessibility and Social Acceptance (00:43:32) 
• Algorithmic Influence and Content Consumption (00:45:27) 
• Relational Dynamics and Pornography Use (00:55:42) 
• Relational Skills in Addressing Pornography (00:59:16) 
• Ethical Use of Pornography (01:00:22) 
• Demonstrating Care and Consideration (01:03:15) 
• Seeking Therapy for Relationship Issues (01:04:22) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

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 Careers (00:22:40) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/