The Entrepreneur’s Journey: How John Wanninger Built Success Through Authentic Relationships

In the world of business, few stories are as compelling as that of John Wanninger—a man who transformed from a small-town Iowa farm worker into a successful serial entrepreneur and one of ONYX Automotive’s most valued customers. His journey illustrates the power of saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities and building success through genuine human connections.

An Unexpected Path to Success

Wanninger’s entrepreneurial journey has its roots in the challenging agricultural landscape of 1970s and 1980s Iowa. Growing up on a family farm in Coon Rapids, he learned the value of hard work from his father, a man who embodied dedication and perseverance during one of farming’s most difficult eras.

“My dad was a farmer in the ’70s and ’80s—the hardest-working man you’ll ever meet. I had crops, hogs, and cattle, and worked my whole life right beside him. I was the last in the family who could take over the farm, so it was really a foregone conclusion that it was my next step.”

However, life had different plans. A simple favor—driving a friend to Northwest Missouri State University in 1987—led to an impromptu encounter with college life that would alter his entire trajectory. After experiencing a fraternity party that weekend, Wanninger made a life-changing decision: he called his father and enrolled in college the following Monday.

This spontaneous choice marked the beginning of a new chapter. Though college parties initially attracted him, Wanninger made a commitment to sobriety by age 21, setting the stage for a career built on meaningful relationships and authentic connections rather than fleeting experiences.

The Foundation of Business Success

The influence of Wanninger’s father extended far beyond the farm. Daily conversations continued until his father’s passing 22 years ago, serving as a constant reminder of the values that would shape Wanninger’s approach to business and relationships.

“I called my dad every day until he passed 22 years ago, because family is important to me and he was just a person you wanted to talk to every day. He treated everyone with the same level of respect. He made things just a little bit better for everyone. That is the kind of man and boss I continue to try to be.”

These principles became the cornerstone of Wanninger’s business empire, which now includes companies like Beauty First, Red Rhino Roofing, and Jay Dubya Development. His success stems from a fundamental belief in the power of human potential and positive influence.

Leadership Through Inspiration

For Wanninger, true business success transcends financial metrics. His approach centers on creating environments where people can thrive, especially during challenging times.

“My job is to inspire people to do great things. It’s the biggest thing you can do. If you’re helping create better lives for those around you, you’re being successful. The money, the ventures—they’re a measuring tool. But I don’t wake up every day with a big smile on my face and filled with joy. That’s an intention I set, and I bring that to the people around me.”

This philosophy extends to his role as an employer, where he recognizes the profound impact a positive workplace can have on someone’s overall well-being.

“When someone who works for you is going through difficult personal matters, you can make it a little bit better by being a place where they can show up, draw from that positive energy, and feel just a little lighter. Happiness is the greatest thing you can find, and the greatest thing you can share.”

Finding Excellence in Unexpected Places

Wanninger’s relationship with ONYX Automotive began through a chance encounter that exemplified his appreciation for exceptional service. His connection with Drew Friesen started at a Mercedes dealership, where the experience transcended a typical automotive transaction.

“I met Drew Friesen at a Mercedes dealership, and he didn’t just sell me a car. He created a really great experience for me. It was so in line with the experiences I try to create for my clients and customers, that I just felt really at home and comfortable with him.”

When Friesen transitioned to ONYX, Wanninger’s loyalty followed—not to a brand, but to a person who embodied the same commitment to excellence that Wanninger valued in his own business dealings.

The Ultimate Driving Experience

• Brand Evolution: Transitioned from Mercedes loyalty to BMW enthusiasm
• Trust-Based Decision: Followed Drew Friesen’s expertise and recommendations
• Performance Appreciation: Values the X6 M60i’s combination of power, comfort, and technology
• Extensive Experience: 432 vehicles provide unique perspective on automotive excellence

Despite being a longtime Mercedes enthusiast, Wanninger’s trust in Friesen led him to explore BMW’s offerings. The results speak for themselves, particularly given Wanninger’s extensive automotive experience.

“[Friesen] got me into BMW, and there is definitely a reason they call it ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine.’ I have had, to be exact, 432 vehicles. But the power, the comfort, the tech, and everything about BMWs, especially the X6 M60i, is what I love right now.”

This endorsement carries significant weight coming from someone who has experienced such a diverse range of vehicles throughout his lifetime.

Building Community Beyond Commerce

What distinguishes Wanninger’s relationship with ONYX is how it evolved beyond traditional customer interactions. His regular visits demonstrate that exceptional businesses create communities, not just customer bases.

“I stop by ONYX at least once a week. I go in just to say hi, grab a soda in the lobby, and hang out with Drew, Mark, and Jim at BMW. I just love being around good people, and I love the energy there. I hope I bring that same energy to them.”

These weekly visits reflect Wanninger’s fundamental belief in the importance of surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded individuals who share similar values and commitment to excellence.

The Power of Authentic Connections

John Wanninger’s story illustrates that business success and personal satisfaction often converge when relationships are built on mutual respect, shared values, and genuine care for others’ well-being. His evolution from farm worker to entrepreneur to ONYX enthusiast demonstrates how authentic connections can transform both business outcomes and personal experiences.

His journey reminds us that the most rewarding business relationships extend far beyond transactions—they create communities where people feel valued, understood, and inspired to achieve their best.

Experience the difference that genuine relationships and exceptional service can make. Visit ONYX Automotive and discover why customers like John become part of our extended family.