We All Want to Be Special [E177]

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 Highlights:

• Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.

Vision Conference Recap:

• Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there.
• He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including:
• Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system.
• Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics.
• Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.

Key Takeaways from Vision:

• HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics.
• Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.

Personal Reflections and Connections:

• Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumhardt, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others.
• They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone.
• Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories:

• Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match.
• He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.

Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:

• Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories.
• He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop.
• He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.

Filling Your Own Bucket:

• Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation.
• He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without...