Posts by Tommy Felts
Daytime TV exposure weaves new challenge for once-bullied teen wig designer: a startup reality check
Fifteen-year-old Trenton Lee found his purpose on the brink of suicide, he recalled, glossing through the pages of a portfolio chronicling the first months of his newly launched Kansas City wig business — a path that ultimately led him to a couch alongside TV and radio personality Steve Harvey. “I was just at the lowest…
Read MoreTarget deals new verse to KC-born Mixtape card game; players could pick founder’s next tune
Mixtape allows players of the KC-made card game to “hide behind the song,” connecting without fear of vulnerability, said creator Joel Johnson. That appeal recently helped push the cross-generational, multi-genre product onto Target shelves across the country. Players draw cards with such scenario questions as, “What song or band changed the way you think about…
Read MoreFund Me, KC: GenU looks in the mirror to remove student mental health stigmas
Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurs — like those working on behalf of the mental health support site GenU — to share their crowdfunding stories to gain additional support. Who are you and what is your organization? Risa Stein, PhD…
Read MoreKCultivator Q&A: Jeff Shackelford loves livable KC, dreams of mopeds, relaxation in Hawaii
Editor’s note: KCultivators is a lighthearted profile series to highlight people who are meaningfully enriching Kansas City’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The KCultivator Series is sponsored by WeWork Corrigan Station, a modern twist on Kansas City office space. Untapped potential and a community support system unmatched by most metropolitan cities amplify Jeff Shackelford’s ambition and maximize his…
Read MoreChris Brown: 37 lessons from five years of being my own boss
Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. Chris Brown is the founder of Venture Legal where he represents startups, freelancers, and small businesses. This column (originally published by Venture Legal) is intended to be general in detail and does not constitute legal advice. Five years ago I took a huge…
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