Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AutotechMatt 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 NotesA 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.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HEREAftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/