{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"From Bogeys to Blown Fuses: Navigating Self-Doubt [E239]","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/from-bogeys-to-blown-fuses-navigating-self-doubt-e239","audioUrl":"https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/46f2d3bf-9f8b-48ae-89d2-612a9a210bd4.mp3","description":"Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Matt starts on the golf course and ends up right back in the service bay, because apparently, even a decent round of golf can turn into a cognitive psychology lesson.After shooting a personally strong nine-hole score, Matt catches himself doing what many technical and mechanical specialists do every day: ignoring the accomplishment and obsessing over the shots, tests, tools, or decisions that could have been better. That leads into a discussion of discounting the positive, upward counterfactual thinking, hindsight bias, expert bias, and the curse of knowledge.The point is not to stop improving. The point is to stop rewriting reality after the fact. A two-hour intermittent short diagnosis may feel “obvious” once the problem is found, but it was not obvious when the vehicle came in. The same applies to repairs, removals, procedures, and every job where experience only becomes obvious after you earn it.Matt also closes with some listener-driven Mount Rushmore talk, including an all-time basketball starting five featuring Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, LeBron James, and Hakeem Olajuwon.Key TopicsWhy a good result can still feel disappointing when you focus only on what could have gone betterThe difference between honest reflection and beating yourself into the groundDiscounting the positive and how it shows up in diagnosticsUpward counterfactual thinking: “If only I had done this sooner…”Hindsight bias in the shop after the failure is already foundWhy “that was obvious” is usually only true after the factHow technical specialists can learn from a job without erasing the accomplishmentThe danger of judging another specialist’s time after you already know the answerExpert bias, the curse of knowledge, and why experience can distort how we evaluate othersGiving yourself enough credit while still getting betterListener messages and future Mount Rushmore-style segmentsMatt’s all-time basketball starting five discussionPull Quote Options“Once you know where the problem was, it starts feeling obvious. But it wasn’t obvious when you started.”“Why can’t both things be true? That was a good find, and next time I might do it faster.”“Learning from it does not require running yourself into the ground.”“Knowing what I knew at the time, that wasn’t bad.”Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/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/"},"annotations":[{"startTime":322.61,"endTime":335.6,"type":"term","title":"discounting the positive","url":"/glossary/discounting-the-positive","quote":"One is discounting the positive. I thought it might be like imposter syndrome...","canonicalId":"term:discounting-the-positive","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Discounting the positive” is a cognitive pattern where you minimize or dismiss good outcomes. In a shop context, it can lead a technician to downplay a successful diagnosis once the hard part is over.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Discounting the positive” means you don’t give yourself credit for good results. Even when you did well, your brain tries to make it seem less impressive."}},{"startTime":350.5,"endTime":359.4,"type":"term","title":"hindsight bias","url":"/glossary/hindsight-bias","quote":"There's somewhat the same, not exactly, but one basically the cognitive biases and a loose term might be hindsight bias with my skill set...","canonicalId":"term:hindsight-bias","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Hindsight bias is the tendency to believe, after something happens, that you would have predicted or known the outcome all along. In diagnostics, it can make you mentally “rewrite” how hard the problem was once you’ve found the fix.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hindsight bias is when, after you figure something out, you start thinking it was obvious. It can make you underestimate how difficult it was before you knew the answer."}},{"startTime":376.0,"endTime":383.9,"type":"term","title":"bogey","url":"/glossary/bogey","quote":"So what happens is I score a bogey, which is one over par, and I'm looking at what if...","canonicalId":"term:bogey","priority":0.2,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A bogey in golf means you took one more stroke than par for a hole. The host uses it as an analogy for how they mentally discount small setbacks or accomplishments after the fact.","simplifiedExplanation":"In golf, a bogey means you used one extra shot compared to what’s expected for that hole. Here it’s mainly used as a comparison to explain the speaker’s mindset."}},{"startTime":481.8,"endTime":491.4,"type":"term","title":"intermittent short","url":"/glossary/intermittent-short","quote":"How many times have you had a vehicle head? And as a technical specialist, you spend two hours trying to find an intermittent short that pops a fuse.","canonicalId":"term:intermittent-short","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"An intermittent short is an electrical short circuit that happens only sometimes, often due to vibration, heat, moisture, or a failing connector. Because it doesn’t stay present, it can be hard to reproduce and diagnose with a multimeter or scan tools.","simplifiedExplanation":"An intermittent short is an electrical problem that only shows up occasionally. It can be tricky to find because the wiring or connection seems fine most of the time."}},{"startTime":481.8,"endTime":498.8,"type":"term","title":"pops a fuse","url":"/glossary/pops-a-fuse","quote":"you spend two hours trying to find an intermittent short that pops a fuse. And depending on what it is, where it is, two hours is actually really good.","canonicalId":"term:pops-a-fuse","priority":0.45,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"When a circuit “pops a fuse,” it means the fuse opens to protect wiring from excessive current. In troubleshooting, a blown fuse is a clue that something is drawing too much power—often a short to ground, a failing component, or damaged wiring.","simplifiedExplanation":"If a fuse “pops,” it means it burned out to stop the circuit from overheating. Mechanics use that as a clue to figure out what electrical problem is causing too much current."}},{"startTime":515.7,"endTime":573.8,"type":"term","title":"meter that emits a sound","url":"/glossary/meter-that-emits-a-sound","quote":"you know, or if I would have set my meter up for the beep to make a sound, oh, it saved me some time or had longer leads on my headlight or test light or whatever so that I could have seen it while it was back there.","canonicalId":"term:meter-that-emits-a-sound","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Some multimeters can be configured to beep when they detect continuity, voltage thresholds, or other conditions. Using audible alerts can speed up diagnostics by letting you confirm readings without constantly watching the display.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some car electrical meters can beep when they detect something like continuity or voltage. That sound can make it easier to know you got the right reading quickly."}},{"startTime":523.7,"endTime":530.7,"type":"term","title":"test light","url":"/glossary/test-light","quote":"it saved me some time or had longer leads on my headlight or test light or whatever so that I could have seen it while it was back there.","canonicalId":"term:test-light","priority":0.45,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A test light is a simple electrical diagnostic tool used to check whether a circuit has voltage. In automotive troubleshooting, it helps you quickly confirm power/ground without needing more advanced equipment.","simplifiedExplanation":"A test light is a basic tool that lights up when electricity is present. Mechanics use it to quickly check if a wire or connector is getting power."}},{"startTime":523.7,"endTime":530.7,"type":"term","title":"leads","url":"/glossary/leads","quote":"it saved me some time or had longer leads on my headlight or test light or whatever so that I could have seen it while it was back there.","canonicalId":"term:leads","priority":0.35,"confidence":0.7,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In electrical testing, leads are the probe wires/clips that connect your meter or test light to the circuit. Longer leads can improve visibility and reach when the connector or wiring is hard to access."}},{"startTime":560.9,"endTime":567.1,"type":"term","title":"incandescent","url":"/glossary/incandescent","quote":"I might, you know what, I need to manufacture some leads for my test lights, whatever they are, test, you know, a regular incandescent,","canonicalId":"term:incandescent","priority":0.3,"confidence":0.7,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Incandescent refers to a light source that produces light by heating a filament until it glows. The host mentions incandescent bulbs because test-light and wiring behavior can differ from modern LED lighting.","simplifiedExplanation":"Incandescent bulbs make light by heating a tiny filament until it glows. The type of bulb matters because electrical testing can behave differently than with newer bulb types."}},{"startTime":583.0,"endTime":588.2,"type":"term","title":"scopes","url":"/glossary/scopes","quote":"something like that, you know, set up your scopes, right? Pico, we can set it up to do some pretty cool stuff to alert you of certain phenomenon","canonicalId":"term:scopes","priority":0.6,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In automotive diagnostics, “scopes” usually means oscilloscopes, which display how voltage/current changes over time. They’re especially useful for catching intermittent problems like flickering or brief spikes that a basic meter might miss.","simplifiedExplanation":"A scope is a tool that shows electrical signals over time. It’s helpful when the problem happens only sometimes, like a signal that flickers."}},{"startTime":583.0,"endTime":588.2,"type":"term","title":"Pico","url":"/glossary/pico","quote":"something like that, you know, set up your scopes, right? Pico, we can set it up to do some pretty cool stuff to alert you of certain phenomenon, like current exceeding a certain amount or vice versa","canonicalId":"term:pico","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Pico refers to Pico Technology’s automotive-capable test equipment, commonly used for oscilloscope-style diagnostics. The key idea here is using instrumentation that can alert you to electrical events rather than relying only on manual probing.","simplifiedExplanation":"Pico is a brand of diagnostic tools (often oscilloscopes) that can help you see electrical signals. In this context, it’s about getting alerts when something goes out of range."}},{"startTime":588.2,"endTime":595.5,"type":"term","title":"current exceeding a certain amount","url":"/glossary/current-exceeding-a-certain-amount","quote":"Pico, we can set it up to do some pretty cool stuff to alert you of certain phenomenon, like current exceeding a certain amount or vice versa","canonicalId":"term:current-exceeding-a-certain-amount","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"This describes an electrical “threshold” condition where measured current goes above a specified limit. Diagnostic tools can be configured to alert you when current exceeds (or drops below) that threshold, helping pinpoint faults faster.","simplifiedExplanation":"It means the electrical current is going higher than it should. Some diagnostic tools can warn you when that happens so you can find the problem sooner."}},{"startTime":608.8,"endTime":615.6,"type":"concept","title":"wild goose chase","url":"/glossary/wild-goose-chase","quote":"did, you didn't make any gross errors, big errors, big screw ups, you didn't go on a big wild goose chase or anything like that.","canonicalId":"concept:wild-goose-chase","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A “wild goose chase” in diagnostics is when you chase the wrong lead and waste time testing unrelated possibilities. The host contrasts this with good troubleshooting that avoids major mistakes and unnecessary detours.","simplifiedExplanation":"A “wild goose chase” means you keep looking in the wrong place and waste time. Good diagnostics tries to avoid that by staying focused on the most likely causes."}},{"startTime":615.6,"endTime":620.6,"type":"concept","title":"rabbit hole","url":"/glossary/rabbit-hole","quote":"You didn't go on a big wild goose chase or anything like that. You didn't go spiraling down a rabbit hole.","canonicalId":"concept:rabbit-hole","priority":0.55,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"In troubleshooting, going down a “rabbit hole” means getting overly focused on one theory and continuing tests even after evidence suggests it’s not the right path. The point is to recognize when to step back and re-evaluate.","simplifiedExplanation":"A “rabbit hole” is when you get stuck chasing one idea too long. In car diagnosis, it’s a warning sign that you may need to change your approach."}},{"startTime":638.0,"endTime":643.8,"type":"term","title":"bulletin","url":"/glossary/bulletin","quote":"it's no different than a bulletin, instructing you to go look at a certain area, because it's a known problem, fine.","canonicalId":"term:bulletin","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Here, “bulletin” refers to a known-issue communication (often an OEM technical service bulletin) that tells technicians where to look for a recurring fault. It’s used to avoid unnecessary diagnosis when the problem is already documented.","simplifiedExplanation":"A bulletin is an official notice that says, “We’ve seen this problem before; check this area.” It helps mechanics skip guesswork when a fault is known."}},{"startTime":643.8,"endTime":649.9,"type":"term","title":"transmission","url":"/glossary/transmission","quote":"a mechanical specialist pulling that transmission out, following the procedure, step by step, and then realizing I didn't have to take that out.","canonicalId":"term:transmission","priority":0.25,"confidence":0.6,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Transmission refers to the drivetrain unit that manages gear changes and power transfer from the engine to the wheels. In diagnostics, removing it is a major labor step, so the host is emphasizing avoiding unnecessary removal when the fault is elsewhere.","simplifiedExplanation":"The transmission is the part that changes gears and sends power to the wheels. Taking it out is a big job, so the point is not to remove it unless you really have to."}},{"startTime":793.47,"endTime":799.27,"type":"car","title":"Master Tech","url":"/cars/renault/master","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/DiePost_Paketzustellfahrzeug_Renault_Master_III%2C_Modell_2010.jpg","quote":"...ouse. Are you the entry level tech or are you the master tech, right? As quote-unquote experts, we kind of have...","canonicalId":"car:master:","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Master” in this context doesn’t appear to refer to a specific vehicle model or make. It’s being used as a role or skill level (entry-level tech vs. master tech) in a discussion about expertise and diagnostics. It may come up because the podcast is focused on troubleshooting and who is qualified to handle complex issues.","simplifiedExplanation":"“Master” here doesn’t sound like a car name. It’s describing a person’s level of skill—like being the top or most experienced technician. The conversation is about diagnosing problems and who should handle them.","imageAttribution":"JoachimKohler-HB (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":888.0,"endTime":893.1,"type":"term","title":"high voltage system analysis","url":"/glossary/high-voltage-system-analysis","quote":"Pico Technologies EV diagnostic kits are your all in one solution to safely and efficiently service any electric or hybrid vehicle from comprehensive high voltage system analysis and installation testing to guided step by step procedures.","canonicalId":"term:high-voltage-system-analysis","priority":0.75,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"On electric and hybrid vehicles, the high-voltage system includes components like the battery pack, inverter, and wiring that can be dangerous to work around. High voltage system analysis means using diagnostic tools to check that those circuits are operating correctly and safely.","simplifiedExplanation":"Electric cars have parts that run on very high voltage, which can be dangerous. “High voltage system analysis” means using a diagnostic tool to check that those electrical parts are working properly and safely."}},{"startTime":888.0,"endTime":897.7,"type":"term","title":"installation testing","url":"/glossary/installation-testing","quote":"Pico Technologies EV diagnostic kits are your all in one solution to safely and efficiently service any electric or hybrid vehicle from comprehensive high voltage system analysis and installation testing to guided step by step procedures.","canonicalId":"term:installation-testing","priority":0.7,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Installation testing refers to verifying that a newly installed component or system is correctly connected and functioning as intended. In EV contexts, it often includes checks after work on high-voltage components to confirm safe operation before the vehicle is returned to service.","simplifiedExplanation":"After you install something on a car—especially on an electric car—you need to test it to make sure it was connected correctly. “Installation testing” is the step where you confirm the job is done right and the system works safely."}},{"startTime":914.4,"endTime":919.9,"type":"brand","title":"Autel","url":"/glossary/autel","quote":"This episode of diagnosing the aftermarket A to Z is brought to you by Autel. Autel is a global developer and manufacturer of award winning professional automotive diagnostic tools and service equipment trusted by technicians, educators and shop owners across North America.","canonicalId":"brand:autel","priority":0.4,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Autel is a brand of professional automotive diagnostic tools and service equipment. In the segment, Autel is positioned as supporting modern repair workflows across EVs, TPMS, and ADAS, with an emphasis on following OEM procedures.","simplifiedExplanation":"Autel makes professional diagnostic tools for car repair shops. In this episode, they’re described as helping technicians troubleshoot modern systems like tire pressure sensors and driver-assist features."}},{"startTime":960.6,"endTime":966.7,"type":"term","title":"ADAS","url":"/glossary/adas","quote":"When questions arise, you're working with people who understand the vehicles, the procedures and the real world demands of modern repair, whether diagnosing complex drivability concerns, servicing TPMS systems, validating repairs or working with ADAS and advanced safety technologies.","canonicalId":"term:adas","priority":0.7,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) are features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and automatic emergency braking. Diagnostics and repair often require specialized tools to verify sensor calibration and that the system is functioning according to manufacturer requirements.","simplifiedExplanation":"ADAS stands for the driver-assist features in newer cars, like systems that help with braking or staying in the lane. After certain repairs, you may need special diagnostics to make sure those sensors are set up correctly."}},{"startTime":960.6,"endTime":966.7,"type":"term","title":"TPMS systems","url":"/glossary/tpms-systems","quote":"When questions arise, you're working with people who understand the vehicles, the procedures and the real world demands of modern repair, whether diagnosing complex drivability concerns, servicing TPMS systems, validating repairs or working with ADAS and advanced safety technologies.","canonicalId":"term:tpms-systems","priority":0.65,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is the system that monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver when a tire is under- or over-inflated. Service and diagnostics often involve reading sensor IDs, checking sensor health, and performing relearn procedures after tire changes.","simplifiedExplanation":"TPMS is the tire-pressure warning system in modern cars. It uses sensors to tell you if a tire’s pressure is off, and shops may need to reset or relearn the sensors after service."}},{"startTime":972.4,"endTime":977.9,"type":"term","title":"OEM procedures and standards","url":"/glossary/oem-procedures-and-standards","quote":"Autel tools are engineered to support accurate, efficient repairs and strict accordance with OEM procedures and standards. To learn more about Autel and their diagnostic solutions, visit Autel.com.","canonicalId":"term:oem-procedures-and-standards","priority":0.6,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"OEM means the original equipment manufacturer (the automaker). “OEM procedures and standards” refers to the specific diagnostic steps, repair processes, and acceptance criteria the automaker specifies—often including required tool functions and calibration steps.","simplifiedExplanation":"OEM is the carmaker itself. “OEM procedures and standards” means following the exact instructions the manufacturer says to use for diagnosing and repairing the vehicle, rather than guessing."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Matt Fanslow","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/from-bogeys-to-blown-fuses-navigating-self-doubt-e239/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}