Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Live from “pre-ASTA,” Matt sits down with two “industry nobodies” (his words) who… are anything but. The trio gets honest about what makes training worth the time and money—and what ruins it. They dig into presenter prep (yes, 40 hours for a 4-hour class), class vetting, sponsor pressure, why a sexy scope trick isn’t always the right first move, and how to bring new voices onto the stage without burning attendees. They also share practical advice for first-timers at training expos so you learn more and regret less.

What we cover

• Why one weak class can poison a whole event—and how to prevent it
• The difference between a presenter and an educator
• Brandon’s CTI “boot camp” lessons: pacing, body language, audience interaction
• Teaching your experience vs. reading someone else’s slides
• The “pico math channel” vs. relative compression—start simple, earn the complexity
• Real-world prep: building a class, flow, case study sourcing, time costs no one sees

Sponsor dynamics: class quality vs. class quantity

• Vetting ideas: short audition decks, Zoom mini-presentations, real Q&A
• Pathways for new trainers: Techs Informing Techs, vision-style tech talks, co-teaching/mentorship
• Feedback that helps: beyond Scantron; what to write so organizers can act
• Attendee playbook: note-taking, pacing yourself, lobby networking, post-event review

Quick takeaways

For trainers

• If you didn’t write the class, make it your own—prep until you could answer questions without the deck.
• Lead with the right test, not the flashiest one. Wow factor is not a learning objective.
• Ask a veteran to review your flow. Co-teach if you can.

For event organizers

• Don’t let sponsorship replace standards. Vet instructors with a 10–15 slide audition + live Q&A.
• Reward quality: fewer tracks > more mediocre tracks.
• Follow up for feedback after the event; invite longer-form comments.

For attendees

• Bring a notebook/app, a highlighter, and capture 3 “do-this-Monday” items per session.
• Don’t try to copy every slide—listen for the why and the decision tree.
• Network on purpose. Introduce yourself. Follow up a week later as you review notes.

Notable moments/quotes

• “Teaching is the fun part—I’d do that for free. You’re really paying for the prep.” — Brandon
• “You can’t preach ‘training matters’ and then short-change the delivery.” — Matt
• “We need an on-ramp for new presenters—safe reps before three-hour sets.” — Matt
• “Start with the test that answers the question fastest.” — Bob

Shout-outs & mentions

• MobilityWorks — Bob’s focus on vehicles modified for physically disabled drivers/passengers
• CTI/Worldpac instructor boot camp (presenter craft)
• Techs Informing Techs / vision-style tech talks — great first stage reps
• Pico Technology concepts referenced (math channels, relative compression)

Who this episode helps

• Techs deciding whether to spend the time/money to travel for training
• New and aspiring trainers looking for the right entry path
• Organizers who want higher attendee retention and better word-of-mouth

Call to action

• Been to a class that changed your workflow—or wasted your time? Send Matt what made the difference and why.
• If you’re an aspiring presenter with a killer case study, draft a 10-slide mini and reach out—let’s get you reps at a tech-talk format.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Live(ish) from ASTA 2025 in Raleigh, I “borrow” a guest from a Keith Perkins immobilizer class: Mike Maleski of PSK Automotive and Rosedale Technical College. We dig into the business of keys/immobilizers—what drew him in, locksmith gatekeeping, where OE tools beat aftermarket for workflow, flat-rate incentives (hello, Cobra Effect), cloning/EEPROM realities, and teaching diagnostics to the next generation. Also: yinzer linguistics, Applebee’s barters, and Tibbe-key kryptonite.

Mike Maleski — Owner/tech at PSK Automotive (Pittsburgh, PA) and instructor at Rosedale Technical College.

Topics we hit

• Getting into keys: margins, ROI, and focusing the service line
• Locksmith gatekeeping → locksmiths moving into module programming
• Market realities: dense dealer competition vs. being “the only game in town”
• Inventory truth: FCC IDs, chip types, look-alikes that aren’t
• Aftermarket vs. OE: when GM/Volvo VIDA and other OE paths are faster/cleaner
• Cutting machines: Dolphin starts; Triton support/updates; Tibbe/Jag quirks
• Cloning & EEPROM: freeing used key slots (e.g., BMW), virginizing/clone vs. dealer order
• Service mix & referrals: “different, not better,” building two-way trust
• Pay plans & culture: misaligned incentives, base-plus-performance sanity
• Wages vs. geography: think cost-of-living ratios, not raw dollars
• Teaching at Rosedale: bench → car, lightbulb moments, ScannerDanner lineage

Quotes

• “OE software isn’t always about coverage; sometimes it’s about friction.”
• “Flat rate isn’t evil; misaligned incentives are.”
• “You can stock 200 keys and still not have the right one.”

Takeaways

• Adding keys/immobilizer? Plan inventory, price subs, know your dealer landscape, lean OE when it reduces rework.
• Build referral networks; you won’t go broke sending work to the right specialist.
• Audit incentives in your pay plan.
• In teaching/mentoring, bridge breadboards to the messy reality of in-car faults early.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Matt Fanslow explores the complex relationship between passion, purpose, and the realities of working in the automotive repair industry. Inspired by a story of a successful businessman who rediscovers his childhood joy fixing bicycles, Matt reflects on how easily passion can fade — and what shop owners and managers can do to help their teams rekindle it.

He tackles the classic debate of “follow your passion” versus “follow the money,” examines how shop culture and leadership can either nurture or crush enthusiasm, and shares candid thoughts on his own journey to keep that sense of wonder alive through advanced diagnostics, ADAS calibrations, EEPROM work, and more.

From systemic demotivators like inadequate tooling and broken pay structures, to the transformative power of genuine leadership excitement, Matt invites listeners to reconsider how they approach motivation and fulfillment in their shops — and in their own careers.

Key Takeaways:

• A Lesson in Passion: A story about a man who spent decades in a corporate career before returning to his childhood love — repairing bicycles — illustrates how deeply rooted passions can resurface and transform our lives.
• Passion vs. Paycheck: Matt discusses the tension between following your passion and pursuing financial stability — and why the answer isn’t always as simple as motivational slogans make it seem.
• Keeping the Spark Alive: For technicians and shop owners alike, maintaining interest and curiosity often requires growth: new tools, deeper training, challenging work, and continuous learning.
• Demotivators in the Shop: Being “set up to fail” — whether through lack of equipment, poor information, inadequate training, or broken systems — is one of the most effective ways to kill enthusiasm and productivity.
• The Leadership Role: Leaders who show excitement about the work and actively celebrate their team’s wins help create a culture that sustains passion rather than drains it.
• Shops as Schools: Matt draws a comparison to how schools can drain curiosity from kids, urging shop owners to avoid building environments that strip away the same energy and wonder from their technicians.

Notable Quotes:

• “Those who do not believe in magic will never find it.” – Roald Dahl
• “Sometimes work sucks the wonder right out of us — the same way school can strip curiosity from kids.”
• “I get into advanced diagnostics, ADAS, EEPROM work — not just because I can, but because it keeps that childlike wonder alive.”
• “Setting someone up to fail isn’t just about tooling or training. It’s about robbing them of the chance to succeed — and that kills passion faster than anything.”

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

In this episode, Matt Fanslow takes on a common source of confusion in automotive diagnostics: pressure, vacuum, and the difference between gauge and absolute readings.

What starts as a discussion on PSI and inches of mercury quickly expands into how technicians interpret scan tool PIDs, why definitions matter, and where misunderstandings creep in—especially in the U.S., where we often mix measurement scales. Along the way, Matt also detours (in true Matt fashion) into physics, quantum mechanics, and the origins of universes from near-perfect vacuums.

Yes, really. And yes, it still ties back to cars.

Key Topics Covered:

The two main pressure scales used in the U.S.:

• PSI (pounds per square inch) above atmospheric
• Inches of mercury below atmospheric (vacuum)

Where confusion starts:

• Vacuum gauges vs scan tool data
• PSI vs inches of mercury and how both can technically read positive or negative

Gauge vs Absolute pressure:

• Gauge pressure treats atmospheric as zero
• Absolute pressure references a sealed, near-vacuum chamber
• Why MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensors often confuse techs

Rules of thumb:

• 2 inHg ≈ 1 PSI
• Atmospheric pressure at sea level ≈ 14.7 PSI (≈ 30 inHg, ≈ 100 kPa)
• Engine vacuum at idle ≈ 18–20 inHg (≈ mid-30 kPa absolute)

How to tell what your scan tool is showing you:

• Quick test: Key On, Engine Off → atmospheric pressure value reveals if it’s gauge or absolute

Metric perspective:

• Why kilopascals (kPa) often simplify things
• Thinking of vacuum as “low pressure,” not “negative pressure”

Physics detour (because Matt can’t help himself):

• Schrödinger’s Cat and quantum absurdities
• Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle
• Absolute zero pressure, absolute zero temperature, and why universes may form from vacuum energy

Why It Matters

A clear understanding of how pressure is defined, displayed, and measured allows technicians to:

• Interpret scan tool PIDs correctly
• Avoid misdiagnosis caused by unit confusion
• Communicate more precisely with peers and customers
• Gain confidence when moving between PSI, inHg, and kPa

Next time someone’s arguing inches of mercury vs PSI on a forum, remember: it’s all about knowing whether you’re looking at gauge or absolute. And if the conversation stalls, just casually mention that universes may have formed from absolute zero pressure. It probably won’t help you win the argument—but hey, it’s a good story.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Matt takes a break from technical talk to discuss a critical issue affecting both society and the automotive aftermarket: the growing inability to engage with differing perspectives. Triggered by recent events, including the tragic death of commentator Charlie Kirk, Matt explores the importance of challenging our own ideas, the dangers of social media echo chambers, and how this mindset translates to our professional interactions in the shop.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Core Principle: Matt opens with a powerful quote from former ACLU director Ira Glasser: "Being offended is not a valid reason for silencing someone." He argues that the power to limit speech you dislike can easily be turned against speech you support.
• The Value of Unsafe Ideas: A healthy society and campus should be physically safe, but intellectually "unsafe," meaning ideas should be openly challenged and debated. This is how we strengthen, modify, or better defend our own positions.
• The Social Media Trap: Algorithms are designed to maximize engagement, which often means promoting content that enrages us. This leads to:
• Echo Chambers: We surround ourselves only with people who think like us.
• Radicalization: A lack of diverse perspectives can push us to extremes.
• The "Unfriending" Trend: Matt argues it's a mistake to purge our social networks of people with differing, even disagreeable, views. This eliminates valuable challenges to our own thinking.
• The Professional Parallel: This divisiveness isn't just political. In the aftermarket, we see it when we run down competitors or refuse to consider different technical approaches or business philosophies from our own.
• Seeing the Person Behind the Avatar: People often project an amplified or modified version of themselves, especially online or in stressful situations (like a customer at a service counter). Matt urges listeners to be curious about who people really are and why they might be acting a certain way, rather than making quick judgments.
• A Call to Action: Actively seek out and listen to perspectives different from your own. Engage with the ideas, not the person. Foster genuine curiosity to combat division and improve both personal and professional relationships.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

In this thought-provoking solo episode, Matt Fanslow tackles the complex and personal question: "What is success?" Drawing a fascinating parallel to Einstein's theory of relativity, Matt argues that there is no universal definition of success, just as there is no universal clock. Success, like time, is personal and relative.

He explores how a "successful" outcome for a rookie technician (simply completing a complex job correctly) is vastly different from the definition of success for a seasoned master tech (high efficiency and productivity). Matt urges listeners—whether shop owners, managers, or technicians—to define success on their own terms, celebrate personal victories, and create environments where individuals can chart their own improvement.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Physics Metaphor: How Einstein's theory of relativity—specifically, that time is not universal but personal—provides a powerful framework for thinking about success.
• No Universal Benchmark: Why comparing your success to billionaires like Elon Musk or elite athletes is a flawed and discouraging exercise.
• Success in the Shop:
• For a new tech, success might be finishing a job without help, even if it took three times the book time.
• For management, success is often tied to metrics like productivity and profit.
• The importance of acknowledging and validating these different definitions.
• The Role of Leadership: Managers must communicate clear, reasonable definitions of success and provide the systems and support for their team to achieve it. This includes mentoring on efficiency without dismissing initial accomplishments.
• Embrace the Learning Process: True growth comes from analyzing failures and missteps. Don't shortchange yourself by only focusing on the end result; take pride in the incremental wins.
• A Changing Industry: With a smaller pool of naturally experienced talent, shops must focus on building systems that allow a wider range of people to succeed, rather than expecting new hires to "succeed in spite of poor systems."

Quotable Moments:

• "There is no universal success. There's only personal success."
• "Give yourself credit where credit's due... validate their successes, even as meager as we may find them to be."
• "This profession is really, really good about pointing out to us is we don't got it."
• "The failures, the hiccups, the missteps, that's where the learning comes in."

Call to Action: How do you define success in your professional and personal life?

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound, Express

Watch Full Video Episode

In Our Episode Today:

Many of our loyal listeners have heard me mention my older, little, brother Shaun, or you have heard me jesting with host of Diagnosing the Aftermarket A-Z, Matt Fanslow…

Today you get to see us sit in the room and have a genuine conversation!

I notice in my day-to-day interactions with aftermarket professionals, that many of the businesses I interact with are lacking a real diagnostic specialist on their staff.

A diagnostic specialist is one who can troubleshoot complex electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic issues using advanced tools, resources and experience.  The value of their knowledge to ensure repairs are done right the first time, earn the business revenue based on knowledge, and save your clients money by preventing unnecessary repairs, is undisputed.

Why are there not more of these types of specialists in our industry?

How might communication skills play a part?

Are networking skills a critical factor in developing other skills? 

When you hear Matt and Shaun talk about the investment in time, both in the shop, and outside of it - to develop their skills - some will be energized, some may feel dismayed - but the path is a bright one for those who are willing - and we will hear in this conversation what worked for Matt and Shaun as they began their journey - and we get to hear a bit about where it has brought them now.

In this conversation you’ll hear:

• Times of sacrifice outside the normal hours
• The need for creating space to practice new skills in balance with demands of business
• The impact of mentors
• The value of adopting a learning mindset
• Some valuable caveats if you find yourself at a dinner with Matt Fanslow
• Shaun always trying to hire people to join MAS - because he just can’t not.

The WOTD is a fitting one for the diagnostic backdrop:

Nebulous.

adj.

A formal word used to describe something that is difficult to see, understand, or describe—in other words, something indistinct or vague.

I know you’ll enjoy listening to Matt and Shaun!  Because of their early friendship, I was led to events and networks I would likely not have found on my own. 

I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this conversation with you now!

Sincerely,

Craig O’Neill

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound, Express:

The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com.  "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.

AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com

Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.

In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.

Express by Facepay myexpress.io. Keep your existing merchant processor and software at your service counter. Express is integrated into your workflow to make the experience better.

Contact Information

• Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected]
• Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Welcome to the 200th episode of Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z! In this milestone episode, Matt reflects on the journey of recording weekly shows for nearly four years straight. He shares listener questions, personal insights, and some of the most surprising lessons learned along the way.

From the variety and complexity of the automotive repair profession to the humbling stories that stick with him most, Matt highlights how much this industry continues to evolve and inspire. He also digs into some technical listener questions, offering advice on:

• Getting started with module repair – training resources, tools, soldering practice, and ROI considerations.
• Programming laptops – buying pre-configured systems vs. DIY setups, pros and cons of “stacking” car-line specific laptops, and what works in a real-world shop setting.
• And, of course, Matt acknowledges the community of listeners, colleagues, and friends who have made reaching this milestone possible.

Key Takeaways

• 200 episodes in perspective: What stands out most isn’t just the content, but the incredible variety within the automotive field itself.
• A jaw-dropping insight: Depression in men often manifests as anger—a lesson that reshaped how Matt views past shop dynamics.
• Module repair basics: Start with training (Mike Christopherson, Kevin Sutter, Keith Perkins) and practice kits; avoid skimping on tools—buy once, cry once.)
• Programming computers: Choose between convenience (pre-configured laptops from Auto Rescue Tools) or flexibility (multiple inexpensive refurbished systems).

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

Matt Fanslow and guest Margaret Light, a licensed marriage and family therapist, unpack common misconceptions around psychosis and psychopathy.

The conversation also tackles the stigma surrounding mental health and stresses the importance of validation and empathy when supporting someone experiencing psychotic symptoms, rather than trying to argue or prove them wrong.

Resources: 

• NAMI - https://helplinefaqs.nami.org/article/286-how-can-i-help-my-loved-one-during-a-
• I am not sick I don't need help - https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/I_am_not_sick_excerpt.pdf

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

Watch Full Video Episode

In this episode of Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z, Matt Fanslow takes a detour from his usual pop culture quotes and instead pulls wisdom from an unlikely source: Tom Brady.

Brady’s recent interview stirred up some debate, but Matt digs into why technicians, shop owners, and service advisors should pay attention. It’s not about football stats or Super Bowl rings—it’s about preparation, accountability, and being part of a team that wins together.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why Tom Brady’s relentless preparation matters just as much in a repair shop as it does on the football field.
• How great technicians can (and should) take interest in more than just “their bay”—including front-of-house operations, management decisions, and shop profitability.
• The balance between accountability and respect: holding management and teammates responsible without tearing them down.
• How effort, process, and adaptability create opportunities for success—and why relying on “luck” isn’t enough.
• The parallel between team sports and auto repair shops: winning requires every player, from the service advisor to the shop foreman to the owner.

Matt also isn’t afraid to jab at a few colleagues (sorry, Buffalo fans—Tom Brady didn’t exactly give Josh Allen the blessing), all while reminding us that success in auto repair is about more than just cranking hours. It’s about growth, teamwork, and improving the environment for everyone involved.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training

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.

Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology

Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today! 

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [email protected]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
• Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/