Automotive Field Theory: Rebranding the Podcast [E248]

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Diagnosing the Aftermarket Becomes Automotive Field Theory

Things have changed.

After years as Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z, the podcast has a new name: Automotive Field Theory.

In this episode, Matt explains why the original title was chosen, why it eventually became a problem, and how the new name better represents both the podcast and the range of subjects explored on it.

The original name was intended to leave the show wide open. Automotive diagnostics and technology were always part of it, but so were psychology, economics, relationships, mental health, addiction, movies, sports, professional wrestling, and the people behind the work.

That freedom is not going away.

The problem was simpler: people searching for automotive and auto repair podcasts often could not find the show. Neither “diagnosing” nor “aftermarket” is exclusively connected to the automotive industry, and the word “automotive” did not appear anywhere in the title.

Automotive Field Theory solves that problem while also fitting the show on several levels.

It is a play on quantum field theory, reflecting Matt’s lifelong interest in physics and his tendency to explore how things actually work. It also refers to the entire automotive field, from vehicle design and manufacturing through sales, service, collision repair, locksmithing, programming, calibration, modification, and eventually recycling.

Finally, there is the theory itself: automotive theory, diagnostic theory, economic theory, psychological theory, and the hypotheses and ideas that shape how people understand the profession.