Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

Matt Fanslow reflects on the profound influence of his mentor, Jim Wilson. He discusses Jim's unique diagnostic approach and the importance of networking and continuous learning from industry stalwarts.

Show Notes

• The influence of mentorship (00:00:11)
• Learning from case studies (00:02:35)
• Diagnostic techniques (00:05:00)
• Understanding DTCs (00:07:39)
• Diagnostic strategies (00:12:10)
• Networking and mentorship (00:17:53)
• Facebook Groups (00:18:53)
• Learning from Archives and Mentors (00:22:25)

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

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

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

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

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

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: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

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