Woman-led

This startup comes with baggage: How one entrepreneur zipped away a classic travel pain

Editor’s note: The following story was produced through a paid partnership with MOSourceLink, which boasts a mission to help entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state of Missouri grow and succeed by providing free, easy access to the help they need — when they need it. Amber Walderier’s entrepreneurial journey began with an unexpected inspiration:…

Former Hallmark, Crayola exec joins Reconciliation Services, shifting focus to equity of personal well-being

A nearly 20-year corporate veteran has joined one of the most prominent nonprofit operations on Kansas City’s east side — marking another new chapter for Troost-based Reconciliation Services as Kristen Harris starts work as its new COO. “This role is an incredible opportunity to combine my passion for community impact with innovative leadership,” Harris said….

KC needs elevated ambience, founder says; how her soon-to-open Westwood home store sets the table for ‘touches of trend’

The moment local shoppers — aspiring to better entertain friends and loved ones — heard what Sarah Brown’s online store was offering, her home and lifestyle business “just blew up,” she said, detailing the demand now pushing the brand’s jump to brick and mortar. “It showed that people in Kansas City need and want what…

She came to Kansas seeing a land of opportunity; now her just-launched bookstore opens doors for Black creatives

Startland News’ Startup Road Trip series explores innovative and uncommon ideas finding success in rural America and Midwestern startup hubs outside the Kansas City metro.  WICHITA — Latasha N. Eley Kelly’s new storefront not only combines her love of books, education, and supporting local creatives, she said; Left on Read also serves as a unique community…

New Westport coffee shop hopes to crown a fresh local favorite in the spot that launched Ruby Jean’s

Move over, office coffee pot; Tamara Grubb’s workspace brews its own premium drinks Tamara Grubb was just looking for a nice office space when she walked into a Westport building — a long-ago gas station with a distinctive double-A frame roof that once launched the popular Ruby Jean’s Juicery brand. Her first thought: This space…