Pre-VisionKC 2025 Mailbag [E176]

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: [e-mail]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Blade Runner Monologue Appreciation:

• Matt opens the episode with a reflection on the iconic "tears in rain" monologue from Blade Runner.
• He shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Rutger Hauer improvised the line, making it one of the most memorable moments in cinema history.
• Matt expresses his love for behind-the-scenes stories and the genuine, unfiltered insights into success and creativity.

1. The Role of Luck in Success:

• Matt discusses the often-overlooked role of luck in achieving success.
• He references the "iceberg" analogy of success, where hard work, talent, and drive are below the surface, but luck plays a significant role.
• He emphasizes the importance of giving credit where it’s due and acknowledging the contributions of others.

1. Mailbag Questions:

• Do You Believe in Ghosts?: Matt shares his thoughts on ghosts, explaining why he doesn’t believe in them and how he finds the idea more exciting than scary.
• Fuse Testing: Matt dives into his preferred methods for testing fuses, emphasizing the importance of using a test light with an incandescent bulb and checking for corrosion, especially in rust-prone areas.
• Loss Leaders in Business: Matt discusses the concept of loss leaders (e.g., free diagnostics, cheap oil changes) as a marketing strategy. He explores the pros and cons, including the risk of devaluing services and setting unrealistic customer expectations.
• Cell Phones in the Shop: Matt shares his perspective on allowing cell phones in the shop, acknowledging their utility as tools for diagnostics and service information but warning against distractions.

1. Upcoming Events and Classes:

• Matt teases his upcoming classes, including a hands-on Pico training session with Scott Shot and a key class with Andrew Sexton.
• He highlights Tech Talks featuring Garrett Jacobson on HP Tuners as a diagnostic tool and Zeb Beard on diesel diagnostics.

Key Takeaways:

• Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Matt’s passion for genuine, unfiltered insights into success and creativity shines through, whether discussing Blade Runner or the realities of running a business.
• The Importance of Evidence-Based Diagnostics: Matt emphasizes the value of using data and evidence to support recommendations, whether in diagnostics or business decisions.
• Balancing Loss Leaders and Profit: While loss leaders can be an effective marketing tool, they come with risks, including devaluing services and setting unrealistic customer expectations.
• Cell Phones as Tools, Not Distractions: In the shop, cell phones can be powerful diagnostic tools, but they must be used responsibly to avoid distractions.

Memorable Quotes:

• "All those moments will be lost in time, like tears in the rain." – Matt reflecting on the Blade...