Ep 55 Kendall Warnock- A1 Automotive

Send us a text

🎙️ Brand Lincoln Podcast | Kendall Warnock – From Food Stamps to a Full Bay: The Grit Behind A1 Automotive

Sponsored by Perch Merch – Screen printing, embroidery, and promo products built for bold brands. Visit Perch-Merch.com.

🔧 Episode Overview:

In Episode 55, we’re joined by Kendall Warnock, owner of A1 Automotive, whose story is as raw as it is inspiring. What began in a one-bay garage during the recession has become one of Lincoln’s most trusted automotive businesses—with a second location now in the works.

Kendall opens up about his childhood on the Omaha Indian Reservation, his time in the fire service, and how those experiences shaped the grit and heart behind his leadership. We talk about building a business with integrity, what it means to serve your customers (not upsell them), and how upside-down billboards and unconventional branding helped A1 stand out.

This episode isn’t just about cars—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and building something real when you’ve got everything to lose and everything to prove.

🎯 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ How Kendall grew A1 Automotive from a recession-era startup to a thriving business
 ✔️ Why authenticity and honesty are rare (and valuable) in the auto repair industry
 ✔️ The transition from fire service to full-time entrepreneurship
 ✔️ Creative marketing strategies that made A1 unforgettable
 ✔️ How Kendall balances family, faith, and business without losing himself
 ✔️ The power of community service, mentorship, and showing up when it counts
✔️ What it really takes to expand a small business without losing your soul

💥 Why This Episode Matters:

Kendall’s story is for anyone who’s ever been underestimated, counted out, or told to play it safe. He didn’t. And Lincoln’s better because of it. If you're into local business, real talk, or stories that hit harder than a check engine light—this one's for you.

📢 Stay Connected:

📲 Follow Brand Lincoln — @BrandLincolnPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & YouTube
🛍️ Want bold branding like Kendall’s? Visit Perch-Merch.com for custom merch that stands out
👍 Like, subscribe, and share this episode to support Lincoln’s entrepreneurs

Keywords: A1 Automotive, Kendall Warnock, Lincoln Nebraska business, small business success, automotive repair, fire service to business, entrepreneur resilience, community involvement, branding strategy, honest auto repair, Lincoln NE podcast, Perch Merch, Brand Lincoln Podcast, local leadership, business growth stories

🎧 Brought to you by Perch Merch — where your merch game doesn’t flake, fade, or fall apart like a bad business partner. Check out the fun stuff: Perch-Merch.com