Episode 200

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Published on:

3rd Sep 2025

Celebrating 200 Episodes: Insights and Future Paths [E200]

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology

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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

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/

Show artwork for Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z

About the Podcast

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
From Automotive Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health
Matt Fanslow's Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast is a wide-open perspective on all aspects of the automotive aftermarket from a working diagnosticians' point of view. All topics and issues will be on the table.