1<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" 2 xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" 3 xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" 4 xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" 5 xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" 6 xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" 7 xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" 8 > 9 10<channel> 11 <title>VoyageKC Magazine</title> 12 <atom:link href="https://voyagekc.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> 13 <link>https://voyagekc.com</link> 14 <description>Kansas City's Most Inspiring Stories</description> 15 <lastBuildDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 13:19:07 +0000</lastBuildDate> 16 <language>en-US</language> 17 <sy:updatePeriod> 18 hourly </sy:updatePeriod> 19 <sy:updateFrequency> 20 1 </sy:updateFrequency> 21 22 23<image> 24 <url>https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/favicon-1.png</url> 25 <title>VoyageKC Magazine</title> 26 <link>https://voyagekc.com</link> 27 <width>32</width> 28 <height>32</height> 29</image> 30 <item> 31 <title>Kansas City’s Most Inspiring Stories</title> 32 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/28/the-change-makers-stories-that-inspire/</link> 33 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/28/the-change-makers-stories-that-inspire/#respond</comments> 34 35 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 36 <pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 04:00:59 +0000</pubDate> 37 <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category> 38 <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> 39 <category><![CDATA[localguide]]></category> 40 <category><![CDATA[other]]></category> 41 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=1983</guid> 42 43 <description><![CDATA[The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, weâve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we canât begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite […]]]></description> 44 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, weâve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we canât begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.</p> 45<h2>Caroline Meek<br /> 46<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790271514090-personal_1790271513900_1790271513900_caroline_meek_8743c858-70df-42b4-9fa3-ef07fafbbbda.jpg" /></h2> 47<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Hi, I’m Caroline Meek (she/her), a poet and potter from Wyandotte County, KCK! I teach affordable. beginner-friendly clay classes at EPIC Arts Clay Studio in Strawberry Hill, KCK. As Outreach Coordinator, I also run our communications and work with local schools, libraries and nonprofit partners to provide accessible arts programming for neighborhoods across Wyandotte County! For me, clay wasn’t always part of the plan.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-caroline-meek-of-epic-arts-clay-studio"> Read more>></a><br /> 48</span></p> 49<h2>Sydnee Clark<br /> 50<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790203584246-personal_1790203583899_1790203583899_sydnee_clark_screenshot-2026-09-23-at-54440-pm.png" /></h2> 51<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve been in ultrasound for more than a decade, with much of my career spent in high-risk, hospital, outpatient, and traveling ultrasound. Working in more than 20 facilities allowed me to see a lot, learn from different providers, and build the technical skills and confidence that eventually gave me the courage to build something of my own. In 2023, I opened Baby Haven KC.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-sydnee-clark-of-baby-haven-kc"> Read more>></a><br /> 52</span></p> 53<h2>Jason Barden<br /> 54<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790190210109-personal_1790190254973_1790190254973_jason_barden_jasonandstore.jpg" /></h2> 55<p><span data-sheets-root="1">When I first moved to Missouri in 2003 from where I grew up in North Carolina I was struggling to find a career I was passionate about. After bouncing around from job to job I ended up serving in the military. After finishing my military service I joined the police academy.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet
55-jason-barden-of-24-thrift-antique"> Read more>></a><br /> 56</span></p> 57<h2>Dylan Quinn<br /> 58<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790188110212-personal_1790188109855_1790188109855_dylan_quinn_img_3246.jpg" /></h2> 59<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Born and raised in Kansas City. My whole life I grew around the family business. Graduated from Kansas State University in 2014. Shortly after came back home and started my next chapter in the family business. Quinn Real Estate company has been around for almost 40 years. My father graduated from Southern Methodist University.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-dylan-quinn-of-quinn-real-estate-company-fieldstone-homes"> Read more>></a><br /> 60</span></p> 61<h2>Kyndra Hamblin<br /> 62<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790012078618-personal_1790012077636_1790012077636_kyndra_hamblin_kitchen-full-shot-orange-dress.jpg" /></h2> 63<p><span data-sheets-root="1">As a registered dietitian nutritionist, a certified personal trainer, and a certified women’s health specialist with over 25 years of experience, I created Decoding Nutrition Answers to help people achieve their unique potential and reach their goals with proper nutrition and lifestyle guidance based on my own PERSONALIZATION PUZZLE which includes gender, stage of life, current lifestyle, client’s unique goals & the client’s genetic blueprint.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-kyndra-hamblin-of-decoding-nutrition-answers"> Read more>></a><br /> 64</span></p> 65<h2>Michela Maxwell<br /> 66<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790172844459-personal_1790172839725_1790172839725_michela_maxwell_img_2124.jpeg" /></h2> 67<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I came from a small town called, âHarrisonville, MO.â I knew I wanted to be the person that could help other women feel good about themselves. I always liked the way it felt to put a smile on someone elseâs face. And I was no stranger to feeling insecure and not confident.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-michela-maxwells-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 68</span></p> 69<h2>Keegan Koehler<br /> 70<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790169426874-personal_1790169426757_1790169426757_keegan_koehler_familyphoto.png" /></h2> 71<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Bathhouse Trading Company began in 2020 with small batches of handmade soap and some of my earliest sales to coworkers at the hospital. At the time, I was working as a registered nurse in emergency and critical care, a career I spent more than a decade in. I started small, and the encouragement from those early customers gave me the confidence to keep going.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-keegan-koehler-of-bath
71house-trading-company"> Read more>></a><br /> 72</span></p> 73<h2>Henry Myles<br /> 74<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790111585357-personal_1790111585245_1790111585245_henry_myles_dscf5385.jpg" /></h2> 75<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My journey into photography began while I was stationed in Guam with the U.S. Air Force. Immersed in a place where diverse cultures and societies intersect, I found myself compelled to share my perspective of the world through a lens. During my service, I had the incredible opportunity to travel across Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Singapore.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-henry-myles-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 76</span></p> 77<h2>Ashley Walburn<br /> 78<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790104632307-personal_1790104632204_1790104632204_ashley_walburn_img_8014.jpeg" /></h2> 79<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I sometimes joke that I didnât exactly choose this workâit just kept choosing me. I became a mother when I was young, and that experience profoundly shaped the direction of my life. I became fascinated by pregnancy, birth, motherhood, relationships, and the enormous transition that happens when a woman becomes a mother. Eventually, that curiosity became both my education and my lifeâs work.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-ashley-walburn-of-home-holistic"> Read more>></a><br /> 80</span></p> 81<h2>Jeremy Hammer<br /> 82<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790102166401-personal_1790102166062_1790102166062_jeremy_hammer_20250412_0716030-e1790585607589.jpg" alt="Exploring Life & Business with Jeremy Hammer of KC Endurance" /></h2> 83<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve been running most of my life, starting in middle school and continuing through college, where I competed in cross country and track at the University of Central Missouri, where I majored in Exercise Science. After graduating, I moved to St. Louis for a short time and became part of a really great running community.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-jeremy-hammer-of-kc-endurance"> Read more>></a><br /> 84</span></p> 85<h2>Taylor Getz<br /> 86<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790101860281-personal_1790101860095_1790101860095_taylor_getz_img_0838.jpeg" /></h2> 87<p><span data-sheets-root="1">True Barre has transformed my life, and I knew I had to share it! Which is why I brought it from California to Kansas to strengthen, empower, and uplift our community! I earned my personal training certification 8 years ago and completed my True Barre certifications shortly after.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-taylor-getz-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 88</span></p> 89<h2>Dave Cook<br /> 90<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790097192638-personal_1790097193057_1790097193057_dave_cook_venture-counseling-29.jpg" /></h2> 91<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started my career in mental health by working at our local community mental health center working in the youth program back in 2009. Over my 11 years there, I worked in a variety of departments and roles, including supervising the youth program, working with adults, and people with substance use disorders.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-dave-cook-of-venture-counseling-llc"> Read more>></a><br /> 92</span></p> 93<h2>Augie Echeandia<br /> 94<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790094578761-personal_1790094578556_1790094578556_augie_echeandia_img_8728.jpeg" /></h2> 95<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My path to opening House of Clay was definitely not a straight one. I spent most of my career in software engineering, which is about as different from running a pottery studio as you can get. I first got into pottery as a way to step away from work and do something with my hands.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-augie-echeandia-of-house-of-clay"> Read more>></a><br /> 96</span></p> 97<h2>Nat Dolitsky<br /> 98<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790091340082-personal_1790091339002_1790091339002_nat_dolitsky_img_8280.jpg" /></h2> 99<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Founded in 2014 by the Kansas City Zine Collective, Kansas City Zine Con is an annual free-entry convention for participants to exhibit, sell, and trade their independently published materials to the public, participate in zine-related workshops and panels, and meet with like-minded creatives from all over the Midwest.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-nat-dolitsky-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 100</span></p> 101<h2>Isaiah Russell<br /> 102<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790084778559-personal_1790084778467_1790084778467_isaiah_russell_img_9658.png" /></h2> 103<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My two god-brothers John & Tarrell Pledger were the first people who introduced me to more advanced art techniques. I attended Paseo middle school where I started becoming a decent artist but far from a standout. When I transferred to Westport for 8th & 9th grade I met my art teacher Mr.Hancock an eccentric but brilliant man. He created projects that awakened my potential.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-isaiah-russell-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 104</span></p> 105<h2>Joseph Macklin<br /> 106<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790085590668-personal_1790085590510_1790085590510_joseph_macklin_dscf3476.jpg" /></h2> 107<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Kansas City claimed Joseph ‘Jo Blaq’ Macklin long before the world did â and he returned home to claim it right back. A Grammy-nominated music producer whose fingerprints are on some of the most defining records of the past two decades, Jo Blaq has crafted hits alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, including Jill Scott, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Kendrick Lamar.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-joseph-macklin"> Read more>></a><br /> 108</span></p> 109<h2>Zac Butler<br /> 110<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790068755146-pers
110onal_1790068755140_1790068755139_zac_butler_personal-photo.jpeg" /></h2> 111<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My passion for woodworking began at 28 years old in 2020 when a friend of mine helped me build a desk. I jumped off the deep end after this experience. I remember running to the store after this experience and buying a saw, hand drill, and some screws because I had no tools — none — there was no previous handyman experience growing up!<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-zac-butler"> Read more>></a><br /> 112</span></p> 113<h2>Daniel Meek<br /> 114<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790024620806-personal_1790024620649_1790024620649_daniel_meek_screenshot-2026-09-21-at-50332-pm.png" /></h2> 115<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Honestly, I got into this because I’ve always liked cleaning and organizing. There’s a feeling when you walk back into a space and it’s fresh â everything put right, nothing nagging at you. I’ve always chased that feeling, and it turned out other people will pay for it. What I figured out early is that the business isn’t really about cleaning.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-daniel-meek-of-best-clean-kc"> Read more>></a><br /> 116</span></p> 117<h2>Angelina Creger<br /> 118<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790010898573-personal_1790010898377_1790010898377_angelina_creger_cregercollective-16.jpg" /></h2> 119<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I grew up in the foster care system in Kansas and was adopted as I entered my teenage years. I attended Perry-Lecompton High School, and both my biological and adoptive families had deep roots in farming.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-angelina-creger-of-creger-collective-financial"> Read more>></a><br /> 120</span></p> 121<h2>Madison McDaniel<br /> 122<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789999831154-personal_1789999830944_1789999830944_madison_mcdaniel_img_0197.jpeg" /></h2> 123<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I moved to Kansas City about three and a half years ago, and I was working from home every day and really struggling to find my community here. Fitness has always been my outlet.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-madison-mcdaniel-of-fs8-leawood"> Read more>></a><br /> 124</span></p> 125<h2>Hex Cheshire<br /> 126<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789999558912-personal_1789999558622_1789999558622_hex_cheshire_img_2167.jpeg" /></h2> 127<p><span data-sheets-root="1">When I was younger I would write songs , or at least try to. Because I took piano lessons growing up I had a basic grasp on music but I wasnât sure how to bring my visions to life. Fast forward one day I realized I could make music on my phone and it really just kinda blossomed from there.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-hex-cheshire-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 128</span></p> 129<h2>Tina Andrews<br /> 130<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789987361821-personal_1789987361730_1789987361730_frank_andrews_0c6fd431-aeb3-4a29-b82d-5905554e45de.png" /></h2> 131<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My story has had a few detours, and I can promise you I didnât have all of this on my vision board! Iâm a wife, mom, and grandma in Greenwood, Missouri, and my faith and family are at the heart of everything I do. A major turning point in my life was a head-on collision while working.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-tina-andrews-of-thrive-by-grace-digital-agency"> Read more>></a><br /> 132</span></p> 133<h2>Tracy Bennett<br /> 134<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789933808688-personal_1789933806663_1789933806663_tracy_bennett_voyage-kc-pic.jpg" /></h2> 135<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I have always been fascinated with psychology and the ability to help people understand themselves. People have always told me that it is easy to talk to me, so counseling seemed to be a natural fit. I moved to Kansas City from Milwaukee in 2003 to attend graduate school and to be able to enjoy warmer weather longer.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-tracy-bennett-of-soothing-hearts-counseling-services-llc"> Read more>></a><br /> 136</span></p> 137<h2>Porshia Mitchell<br /> 138<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789935531798-personal_1789935531328_1789935531328_porshia_mitchell_ccscporsha-036.jpg" /></h2> 139<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Cocoa Spaces was imagined during the pandemic and a time when we were not able to be around a lot of people. During this time I realized just how important it is to be able to celebrate the milestones in our lives.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet
139-porshia-mitchell-of-cocoa-spaces-llc"> Read more>></a><br /> 140</span></p> 141<h2>Dominique Pierce<br /> 142<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789920527196-personal_1789920527646_1789920527646_dominique_pierce_headshot.jpg" /></h2> 143<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve spent more than a decade building a career in the multifamily housing industry here in Kansas City. I started in leasing and worked my way through property management, leadership, business development, and marketing.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-dominique-pierce-of-intuitive-insights-collective"> Read more>></a></span></p> 144<h2>Michael Young<br /> 145<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789916576698-personal_1789916576542_1789916576542_michael_young_img_1615.jpeg" /></h2> 146<p><span data-sheets-root="1">First in foremost GOD is how I got here today by his love and grace. How I started is a different story. I was working a job maybe 8 years ago doing apartment maintenance and I got stopped by a lady that asked me why I donât model.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-michael-young-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 147</span></p> 148<h2>Charles Muotoh<br /> 149<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789905140803-personal_1789905140478_1789905140478_charles_muotoh_img_0126.jpg" /></h2> 150<p><span data-sheets-root="1">CASE PROPERTIES started with a simple idea and a lot of determination. Our journey began in 2017 when we made our very first sale. At the time, selling online without a physical store was far from easy. People were understandably hesitant to trust a business they couldn’t walk into, so we had to earn every customer’s confidence.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-charles-muotoh"> Read more>></a><br /> 151</span></p> 152<h2>Terrace Wyatt, Jr<br /> 153<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789716838815-personal_1789716838881_1789716838880_terrace_wyattjr_1000010339.jpg" /></h2> 154<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My parents kept me active through most of my childhood; mainly sports and BOY, DID I SUCK! (LOL!!!). Every game kept me active but my mind was on a different game. I even learned to play the piano and violin up to 5th grade knowing it wasn’t for me till I got exposed to the world of theatre around the age of 10.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-terrace-wyatt-jr"> Read more>></a><br /> 155</span></p> 156<h2>Maria Pimenova</h2> 157<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâm originally from Moscow, Russia, where I began my journey in art and design. I decided to take a major step and apply for a masterâs degree program in Florida, which eventually brought me to the United States. I moved to a completely new country by myself and began building my life and career from scratch.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-maria-pimenova"> Read more>></a><br /> 158</span></p> 159<h2>Kristin Hecox<br /> 160<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789859533539-personal_1789859533258_1789859533257_kristin_hecox_untitled-design.jpeg" /></h2> 161<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Cure La Vieâs story actually began here on VoyageKC. When we were first featured last year, the brand was still very much in an early chapter. It had grown out of an unexpected friendship between four moms who met while volunteering during lunch at our childrenâs Christian school. A handmade skincare balm was shared, conversations followed, and eventually an idea began to take shape.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-kristin-hecox-of-cure-la-vie"> Read more>></a><br /> 162</span></p> 163<h2>Kalia Wallace<br /> 164<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789830407931-pers
164onal_1789830409078_1789830409078_kalia_wallace_img_6240.png" /></h2> 165<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My name is Kalia Wallace, formerly Kalia Newton, and I am a Kansas City native, wife, mother, businesswoman, and entrepreneur. My story is one of resilience, determination, and a whole lot of faith. I was born and raised in the inner city of Kansas City, Missouri. Growing up, my mother, Andrea Brown, raised me as a single parent for much of my childhood.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-kalia-wallace-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 166</span></p> 167<h2>Lauren Ashlea<br /> 168<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789788915490-personal_1789788915102_1789788915102_lauren_ashlea_tezza-2543.jpeg" /></h2> 169<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I never planned on becoming a photographer. In fact, I initially had absolutely no interest in photography at all. In high school, I was practically forced into taking sports photos for the yearbook and newspaper. At the time, my real passion was drawing and painting, especially portraits.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-lauren-ashlea"> Read more>></a><br /> 170</span></p> 171<h2>Jo Coyne, Kat Coyne, and Olivia Scott N/A<br /> 172<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789069225752-personal_1789069225536_1789069225536_jocoynekatcoyneandoliviascott_na_front-desk-vibes-copy.jpg" /></h2> 173<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Tempest Piercing (Kat and Jo Coyne) and unfreakish (Olivia Scott) teamed up together to create Hawthorn Body Art in 2025. We all have had our own experiences in the industry- the good, the bad, and the ugly. We all started at one studio and over time realized that it wasn’t a place we felt was right for us.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-jo-coyne-kat-coyne-and-olivia-scott-of-hawthorn-body-art"> Read more>></a><br /> 174</span></p> 175<h2>Kalli O’Connor<br /> 176<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789772541602-personal_1789772541195_1789772541195_kalli_oconnor_selfpic.jpg" /></h2> 177<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve always loved reading and writing, but becoming an author wasnât originally part of my plan. Growing up, I wrote poetry and song lyrics, and because music was such a huge part of my life, I eventually earned my MBA in Music Business. I thought if writing remained part of my future, it would probably be through music somehow.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-kalli-oconnor-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 178</span></p> 179<h2>Connor Boisen<br /> 180<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789754085534-personal_1789754085257_1789754085257_connor_boisen_img_0694.jpg" /></h2> 181<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started young, as many artists do. It was a hobby for me through elementary and middle school age. I always had pencils and paper with me, drawing things that my young self found intriguing and challenging. I continued this into my teenage years briefly.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-connor-boisen"> Read more>></a><br /> 182</span></p> 183<h2>Jamaal Bolder<br /> 184<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789752372225-personal_1789752371843_1789752371843_jamaal_bolder_img_8320_original.jpeg" /></h2> 185<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Im a storyteller at heart My work has always lived where culture, community, art, technology and sports meet. Im a native Kansas citian whose traveled and lead teams in the technology sector, built relationships throughout the world of art and sports. Ride & Roll N.O.W came from seeing the need for quality bicycles for kids in underserved communities to enhance healthy lifestyles and increase mobility.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-jamaal-bolder-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 186</span></p> 187<h2>India Christophersen<br /> 188<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789746311632-personal_1789746311348_1789746311348_india_christophersen_5a595314-f644-4023-997e-81f8d80ade51_1_105_c.jpeg" /></h2> 189<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve always been a creative person, but photography really became something I loved in high school. I started out taking photos for friends and family, and the more I did it, the more I realized how much I loved capturing people and telling stories through images.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-india-christophersen-of-india-love-photography"> Read more>></a><br /> 190</span></p> 191<h2>Bobby bhandal</h2> 192<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was born and raised in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, in a small-business family. Growing up around business taught me the importance of hard work, independence, and building something of your own. I completed my bachelorâs degree in Economics and Accounting and moved to the United States in 1999 to continue my studies.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet
192-bobby-bhandal-of-browthreading"> Read more>></a><br /> 193</span></p> 194<h2>Carla Acevedo<br /> 195<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789683146485-personal_1789683146678_1789683146678_carla_acevedo_yo.jpg" /></h2> 196<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I never imagined I would pursue a career in image consultingâI didn’t even know the profession existed. However, before starting university, I attended a presentation where the program for design and image consulting was introduced. Learning about the positive impact and the value I could bring to others through this field struck me as incredible.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-carla-acevedo-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 197</span></p> 198<h2>Tyree Bayan<br /> 199<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789679402558-personal_1789679402231_1789679402231_tyree_bayan_img_9670-e1790585752864.jpeg" alt="Exploring Life & Business with Tyree Bayan of Surreal Styling" /></h2> 200<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Well, Iâve always loved fashion. I was modeling in shows and more in elementary school. I even started a brand (briefly). As life happened and I matured, so did my interests. I was involved in organizations like NHS, Trio, I was a radio talk show host on Hot 103 Jamz, and was on the cover of the KC Star.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-tyree-bayan-of-surreal-styling"> Read more>></a><br /> 201</span></p> 202<h2>Steve Taylor<br /> 203<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789654816950-personal_1789654816570_1789654816570_steve_taylor_adp_2444edited.jpg" /></h2> 204<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Like many people, my profession developed out of my passion. I started lifting weights at 14 years old as part of my high school football program. I quickly fell in love with lifting, started studying nutrition and supplementation to support what I was doing in the gym, and eventually stopped playing football to pursue lifting full time.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-steve-taylor-of-steve-taylor-rd"> Read more>></a><br /> 205</span></p> 206<h2>Geena<br /> 207<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789499543597-personal_1789499543270_image-1145.jpg" /></h2> 208<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Tri-Beats is a performance team built from our love of music, performing, and fan culture. We are based in Kansas City, and you will find us with original choreography at cultural festivals, anime conventions, and other pop culture events! We started off as typical fans of Asian pop culture such as KPOP, anime and manga, Vocaloid, and other media.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-geena-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 209</span></p> 210<h2>Chuck Moore</h2> 211<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started my career in healthcare in 1998, and looking back, the biggest part of my journey has been character development. Healthcare taught me compassion, responsibility, patience, and what it means to serve people when theyâre at their most vulnerable. Early in my career, there were periods when I worked more than 90 hours a week because I believed I could build a different future.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-chuck-moore-of-moore-business-gp-co"> Read more>></a><br /> 212</span></p> 213<h2>Teresa Thompson<br /> 214<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790090685298-personal_1790090687126_1790090687126_teresa_thompson_simplethings.jpg" /></h2> 215<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Meet Teresa Hello! I’m Teresa, the proud owner of Scrumptious Catering. I’m a wife of 24 years, a proud mother of six amazing children, and ‘Nana’ to two wonderful grandchildren. Family has always been at the center of my life, and it’s the foundation of everything I do.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-teresa-thompson-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 216</span></p> 217<h2>Kodiak Kingston</h2> 218<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve always done art in my spare time and as a hobby, so getting started selling my art was an interesting experience. It all started a couple years ago; I had made plenty of art for my friends, family, and myself, so it got me wondering about taking the steps to sell my artwork.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-kodiak-kingstons-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 219</span></p> 220<h2>Katie Kage<br /> 221<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790038820359-personal_1790038819949_1790038819949_katie_kage_bbiq-22-2.jpg" /></h2> 222<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I’m a professor, registered dietitian, and behavior change researcher, and for years my work was all about helping other people change their habits. What I didn’t expect was how much that expertise would eventually turn inward.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet
222-katie-kage-of-bbiq"> Read more>></a><br /> 223</span></p> 224<h2>Michelle (MJ) Ramirez Jacobson</h2> 225<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I guess Arteria was one of those, ‘Happy little accidents’? I’ve always had a fascination with art, and history, I just never had the time to fully submerge myself in the craft and actually attempt to make a living from it. I always told myself I wasn’t good enough, and for the longest time I truly believed those words.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-michelle-mj-ramirez-jacobson-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 226</span></p> 227<h2>Marcus Moore<br /> 228<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789772986850-personal_1789772986651_1789772986651_marcus_moore_attzk5hbmbbkm2jjobaas_r45ehiktvroqzlsgx1grrozk-1.png" /></h2> 229<p><span data-sheets-root="1">It all started from heroes. As a kid I marveled at their stories, fantastical powers, and the story of the struggle between good and evil. There has always been something about these characters that inspired me to pick up a crayon or pencil, and start drawing every iconic character I saw. From the X-Men, to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Superman and more.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-marcus-moores-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 230</span></p> 231<h2>TaNeisha Wishom<br /> 232<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1790312645799-personal_1790312645362_1790312645362_taneisha_wishom_photo-output.jpeg" /></h2> 233<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I grew up in Topeka Kansas and moved to Kansas City about 14 years ago. Have been a stylist and a licensed cosmetologist for the last 22 years. Studied mass media and psychology which has been something I use now even more. Music and writing have always been my favorite artistic therapy.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-taneisha-wishom"> Read more>></a><br /> 234</span></p> 235<h2>Emanuel Blando<br /> 236<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789514106317-personal_1789514106135_1789514106135_emanuel_blando_emanuel-blando-realtor.png" /></h2> 237<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I’m Emanuel Blando, co-founder of the We Heart Homes KC Team at KW Kansas City Metro. My wife Elizabeth Blando and I have been selling real estate across the Kansas City metro since 2017, on both sides of the state line. Kansas City is my hometown. I know it well, and I’ve seen it grow.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-emanuel-blando-of-we-heart-homes-kc"> Read more>></a><br /> 238</span></p> 239<h2>Haley Raymond<br /> 240<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789436574301-personal_1789436573521_1789436573521_haley_raymond_haleyadamsraymond-2025-74.jpg" /></h2> 241<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started my career as a magazine journalist and editor. In 2014, my fiance at the time (now husband) got a job offer in Belfast, Northern Ireland, so we decided to move there for an adventure abroad. I got a job at a Northern Ireland PR agency and I’ve been in PR ever since.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-haley-raymond-of-haley-raymond-pr-communications"> Read more>></a><br /> 242</span></p> 243<h2>Tonni ‘Pharoh’ Fewell<br /> 244<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789316762818-personal_1789316762998_1789316762998_tonnipharoh_fewell_20260912_120508-e1790585864377.jpg" alt="Rising Stars: Meet Tonni âPharohâ Fewell of Kansas City" /></h2> 245<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My story has always been rooted in creativity, entrepreneurship, and storytelling. I started my journey as a recording artist, where I developed my passion for music, writing, and creative expression.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-tonni-pharoh-fewell-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 246</span></p> 247<h2>Clinton Martens<br /> 248<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789614533478-personal_1789614533345_1789614533345_clinton_martens_atts6nwfboixislwiggjvz_mfkqh_2zpjos5kcelmnl_v0.jpeg" /></h2> 249<p><span data-sheets-root="1">As a child, my mother would always play an oldies radio station that played mostly 50âs and 60âs music and that started my fondness for old school music. In my middle 30âs I learned a lot about Northern Soul music and being a vinyl DJ from my mentor Rico Dejoie.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-clinton-martens-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 250</span></p> 251<h2>Sara Bellum<br /> 252<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788915218421-personal_1788915218309_1788915218309_sara_bellum_img_9846.jpg" /></h2> 253<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Sara Bellum and the Brainwaves are a 7-piece dance punk band based in Kansas City, Missouri. Our music combines danceable rhythms, rockin’ guitar riffs, and upbeat melodies with uncommon instrumentation: viola, keytar, and foley art. Our inception began in theatre school at UMKC, where I met guitarist MC Burnie Beta, sound designer Theo Theta, and vocalist/keytarist Ze
253sty Zeta.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-sara-bellum-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a></span></p> 254]]></content:encoded> 255 256 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/28/the-change-makers-stories-that-inspire/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 257 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 258 259 260 </item> 261 <item> 262 <title>Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know</title> 263 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/21/hidden-gems-local-businesses-creatives-you-should-know/</link> 264 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/21/hidden-gems-local-businesses-creatives-you-should-know/#respond</comments> 265 266 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 267 <pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 01:00:29 +0000</pubDate> 268 <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category> 269 <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> 270 <category><![CDATA[food]]></category> 271 <category><![CDATA[local guide]]></category> 272 <category><![CDATA[Quotes]]></category> 273 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=31314</guid> 274 275 <description><![CDATA[Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the […]]]></description> 276 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. Weâre proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.</p> 277<h2>Rico Gonzales<br /> 278<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789337146803-personal_1789337146583_1789337146583_rico_gonzales_9d8c3cef-f775-41a9-b918-d5cd2a203354.png" /></h2> 279<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was born January 25th 1994 in Kansas City, Missouri. Growing up I was raised on 35th & ARMOUR (Midtown) I was exposed to the conditions of my environment as an adolescent in the projects.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-rico-gonzaless-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 280</span></p> 281<h2>Jacey Fischbach<br /> 282<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788999778770-personal_1788999778472_1788999778472_jacey_fischbach_headshot1.jpg" /></h2> 283<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I am the eldest daughter. I have five younger siblings. Growing up, I lived between two homes. My lunches in school were free. My new clothes and shoes went on layaway at K-Mart. My family were not strangers to mental health issues, addiction, and abuse. I am a first generation college student. I worked full-time and attended school full-time.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-jacey-fischbach-of-true-therapy"> Read more>></a><br /> 284</span></p> 285<h2>Xiangyu Zhao<br /> 286<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789274764182-personal_1789274762965_1789274762965_xiangyu_zhao_bio-pic.jpg" /></h2> 287<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I began studying piano when I was about four and a half years old in Tianjin, China. I loved music from an early age, although learning the instrument itself was not always easy. My early lessons focused heavily on basic technique, along with method books such as John Thompsonâs, and I quickly learned that practicing required much more patience and discipline than simply enjoying music.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-xiangyu-zhao-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 288</span></p> 289<h2>Luca Thompson<br /> 290<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789248893593-personal_1789248893680_1789248893680_luca_thompson_img_2378-1.jpg" /></h2> 291<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always loved to sing. Over the years I have pursued this love quite passively, singing for mostly my own enjoyment and of often debatable quality. Some of the highlights of which including a Beauty and the Beast Jn performance as trusty LeFou and a few seasonal choir performances with my church.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/
291daily-inspiration-meet-luca-thompson"> Read more>></a><br /> 292</span></p> 293<h2>Serge Soussan<br /> 294<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789315333310-personal_1789315333147_1789315333147_serge_soussan_img_0785.png" /></h2> 295<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My journey began more than 20 years ago after my son, Luca, was born. He suffered from eczema and asthma, and I had difficulty finding a blanket that was truly soft, comfortable and gentle enough for his sensitive skin. That personal need inspired me to create and engineer the Minky Dot blanket using hypoallergenic materials.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-serge-soussan-of-my-blankee-inc"> Read more>></a></span></p> 296<h2>Zachary Cipra<br /> 297<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789274834004-personal_1789274834885_1789274834885_zachary_cipra_dsc07535.jpg" /></h2> 298<p><span data-sheets-root="1">After finishing 6th nationally in 1982, 8th in 1983, sending various individuals to compete in the NCAA National Championships and even producing a National Champion in 1984 Northern Illinois University dropped their men’s gymnastics program. With a storied history and a decade full of both team and individual success the chapter book was closed and put on the shelf.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-zachary-cipra"> Read more>></a><br /> 299</span></p> 300<h2>Rachael Honnold<br /> 301<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789252051678-personal_1789252052596_1789252052596_rachael_honnold_20230313_151455-color.jpg" /></h2> 302<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Hello, I am Rachael Honnold (Carney) and I am currently working as an freelance lighting designer in the Kansas City area. I design primarily for Theatre, and dance. I’ve worked for many different places such as Blue Valley High School, KCRep, Avila University, the Kauffman Center and many more.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-rachael-honnold"> Read more>></a><br /> 303</span></p> 304<h2>Jason Brazzel<br /> 305<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789252468556-personal_1789252468432_1789252468432_jason_brazzel_4237.jpg" /></h2> 306<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started my career while still in the Marine Corps. My family and I had started with cookouts and parties. They have always been my biggest support. We were stationed in Germany and had the opportunity operate the neighborhood restaurant. Once my tour was over, we moved to Missouri and started my business Goldie Maeâs Soul Food Kitchen & BBQ.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-jason-brazzel-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a></span></p> 307<h2>Robbi Edwards<br /> 308<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789219267683-personal_1789219267288_1789219267288_robbi_edwards_1000039607.jpg" /></h2> 309<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Soulcare Skin Studio came about as a result of my own journey with getting older, becoming an empty nester, and healing parts of myself that I didn’t even know were broken. One day after all 4 of our kids had grown up and left for their own adult lives, I realized that I had no idea who I was.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-robbi-edwards-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 310</span></p> 311<h2>Shondricka Lovelace<br /> 312<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1787404662557-personal_1787404662368_1787404662368_shondricka_lovelace_screenshot-2026-08-22-at-81057-am.png" /></h2> 313<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Lovely Tax Solutions started from a personal need. I was tired of trying to find someone to prepare my taxes, and eventually I thought, âYou know what? Iâm going to learn how to do this myself.â I found a tax preparation program through Johnson County Community College and enrolled in classes to learn tax law.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-shondricka-lovelace-of-lovely-tax-solutions"> Read more>></a><br /> 314</span></p> 315<h2>Ashley Penner<br /> 316<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789165828801-personal_1789165828754_1789165828754_ashley_penner_dsc_1234.jpeg" /></h2> 317<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I honestly never dreamed I would own a business. In fact, I got a terrible grade in my high school entrepreneurship class! Iâve always loved baking, probably because I love the science behind it and the precision it takes to create something from scratch.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-ashley-penners-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 318</span></p> 319<h2>Nicole Louis<br /> 320<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789160728360-personal_1789160727802_1789160727801_nicole_louis_file_00000000c9b0722f920c34f0edcbc7fc_20260911_155523_0000.png" /></h2> 321<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My story really started long before I ever became an entrepreneur. I became a mother at 13 years old, and shortly afterward, I entered the juvenile justice system after being charged with attempted murder and willful injury for defending myself during an attack.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-nicole-louis-of-iloveme-enterprises-llc-habits-of-a-queen"> Read more>></a><br /> 322</span></p> 323<h2>Rick Knox<br /> 324<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789159775706-personal_1789159776674_1789159776674_rick_knox_rick-knox.jpg" /></h2> 325<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Meet the 2026-28 ATHS President Rick Knox The American Truck Historical Society (ATHS) preserves and shares the history of the trucking industry â an industry that has played a central role in shaping modern commerce, transportation, and daily life across North America.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-rick-knox-of-national"> Read more>></a><br /> 326</span></p> 327<h2>Sarah Pierce<br /> 328<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788382446699-personal_1788382446529_1788382446529_sarah_pierce_img_13991.jpeg" /></h2> 329<p><span data-sheets-root="1">All Saints Lutheran Church was founded in 1987 in Blue Springs in a storefront and moved into our
329current building on 19th Street in the mid 1990s. I am the fourth or fifth pastor to serve here; the previous pastor left in 2017 or 2018.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-sarah-pierce"> Read more>></a><br /> 330</span></p> 331<h2>Tasjha Dixon</h2> 332<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Well my name is Tasjha Dixon and I am an interdisciplinary artist and creator. I am the founder, owner & teacher of Empowering KC with Tasjha which is my creative, wellness-focused practice where I offer yoga classes, writing and poetry classes and community events/open mics, amongst many other community and individual sessions.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-tasjha-dixon"> Read more>></a><br /> 333</span></p> 334<h2>Stacy Porto<br /> 335<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789583988452-personal_1789583988076_1789583988076_stacy_porto_0g5a0470.jpg" /></h2> 336<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My path to real estate wasnât exactly a straight line. I started my career as an attorney, which gave me a strong foundation in negotiation, problem-solving, and advocating for my clients.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-stacy-porto-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 337</span></p> 338<h2>Carl Willis<br /> 339<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789527050154-personal_1789527049816_1789527049816_carl_willis_383.jpeg" /></h2> 340<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started my first online venture back in the days of dial-up. I actually had a CompuServe account using a very slow dial-up modem, but I knew there had to be a way to make money online. My first ventures were an online staffing service and a drop-shipping business that sold decorative vases and costume jewelry, with fulfillment coming out of China.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-carl-willis-of-simplicity-marketing-llc"> Read more>></a><br /> 341</span></p> 342<h2>AJ Finnegan<br /> 343<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789504935562-personal_1789504935399_1789504935399_aj_finnegan_20260915_151047.jpg" /></h2> 344<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My story really began in high school, where I discovered that art and storytelling were going to be a major part of my life. I was involved in both visual and performing arts, which gave me an early appreciation for the ways that images, design, performance, and storytelling can work together.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-aj-finnegan"> Read more>></a><br /> 345</span></p> 346<h2>Sara Dunham<br /> 347<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789501898239-personal_1789501897969_1789501897969_sara_dunham_dunham-09983.jpg" /></h2> 348<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Dunham Bookkeeping Services started in 2020 after I lost my job during COVID. What began as a way to take more control over my own career has grown into something much bigger than I originally planned. I had already spent years working in bookkeeping and accounting, so the business initially centered around helping small businesses get their bookkeeping organized and keeping their financial records accurate.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-sara-dunham-of-dunham-bookkeeping-services"> Read more>></a><br /> 349</span></p> 350<h2>Lauren King<br /> 351<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789485469444-personal_1789485469349_1789485469349_lauren_king_protrait-voyage.jpg" /></h2> 352<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was blessed to grow up in a home surrounded by incredible food, and my dad is one of the best bakers I know. From a young age, I was always eager to help, learn, and participate in the science of baking. I was taught that to be a successful baker, all you need is the ability to follow a recipe exactly as written.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-lauren-king"> Read more>></a><br /> 353</span></p> 354<h2>Billy Robbins<br /> 355<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1789413060570-personal_1789413060431_1789413060431_billy_robbins_dsc_7111.jpg" /></h2> 356<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Robbins Electric was founded in 2020 by my twin brother, Andy Robbins, a master electrician and lifelong entrepreneur. Andy had been building businesses since graduating high school, starting with a lawn care company before eventually finding his passion in the electrical trade. My path was almost the opposite. I went to college and then took the corporate route with Garmin International.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/
356daily-inspiration-meet-billy-robbins"> Read more>></a><br /> 357</span></p> 358<h2>Michael Anderson<br /> 359<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788978827063-personal_1788978826958_1788978826958_michael_anderson_img_0392.jpeg" /></h2> 360<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was 17 years old when I started my Bang Team brand, with a picture off google images and a photo editing app. It started as a just music group I was trying to develop, but it evolved over the years into my brand and lifestyle.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-michael-anderson-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 361</span></p> 362<h2>John Muller<br /> 363<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788969554543-personal_1788969554390_1788969554390_john_muller_img_1859.jpeg" /></h2> 364<p><span data-sheets-root="1">We are an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit, built from the ground up. Every donation and fundraiser directly supports medical research for neuromuscular disease treatments. Our mission is simple: support the science that brings hope. GettingUp.Org, Inc. works to help educate the public and bring attention to rare adult onset conditions, specifically Inclusion Body Myositis.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-john-muller-of-gettingup-org-inc"> Read more>></a><br /> 365</span></p> 366<h2>Alexandra Rovirosa<br /> 367<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788556345247-personal_1788556344698_1788556344698_alexandra_rovirosa_20260221_190158.jpeg" /></h2> 368<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started A Place For Us Productions in 2022. A longtime member of the local Kansas City theatre scene, I realized that there was a strong need for a theatre company that went above and beyond the expectations for local, non-professional theatre.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-alexandra-rovirosa-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a></span></p> 369<h2>Spaceman<br /> 370<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788805427800-personal_1788805427689_1788805427689_spaceman_img_0656.png" /></h2> 371<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started making hip-hop and R&B music when I was 13 in my bedroom in Lawrence, Kansas. A few years down the line, I decided to start leaning more into the hip-hop aspects of my music and rapping. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-spaceman-2">Read more>></a><br /> 372</span></p> 373<h2>Lisa Robinson<br /> 374<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/c-1788661474614-personal_1788661474024_1788661474024_lisa_robinson_profile-pic-1.jpg" /></h2> 375<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My journey into counseling was shaped by one of the most difficult experiences of my lifeâ¦the unexpected loss of my husband. In the midst of grief, uncertainty, and rebuilding a future I never anticipated, I learned what it means to lean on God’s strength and trust His guidance one day at a time. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-lisa-robinson-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a></span></p> 376]]></content:encoded> 377 378 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/09/21/hidden-gems-local-businesses-creatives-you-should-know/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 379 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 380 381 382 </item> 383 <item> 384 <title>Portraits of KC</title> 385 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/08/18/portraits-of-kc/</link> 386 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/08/18/portraits-of-kc/#respond</comments> 387 388 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 389 <pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 01:00:57 +0000</pubDate> 390 <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category> 391 <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> 392 <category><![CDATA[Trending]]></category> 393 <category><![CDATA[Fashion]]></category> 394 <category><![CDATA[local guide]]></category> 395 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=31595</guid> 396 397 <description><![CDATA[Itâs more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. Weâre incredibly fortunate to be [̷
3970;]]]></description> 398 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Itâs more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them the fundamental questions about who they are and how they became the person they are today. Understanding and empathy are essential building blocks for a better, more compassionate world. Weâre incredibly fortunate to be able to ask these questions each week through our interview series. Below youâll find inspiring interviews from in and around KC.</p> 399<h2>Laura Solt<br /> 400<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785967488206-personal_1785967488072_1785967488072_laura_solt_dsc_0037.jpg" /></h2> 401<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My story starts back in my banking days. I started as a bank teller when I was 16 years old, and I learned very quickly that in the banking world, you work with all walks of life. I dealt with customers who had businesses and had it together, and those who struggled. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-laura-solt-of-solt-bookkeeping-advisory">Read more>></a><br /> 402</span></p> 403<h2>Angela Quick<br /> 404<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785961822298-personal_1785961822164_1785961822164_angela_quick_img_0609.jpeg" /></h2> 405<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve been in the beauty business 25 yers! I first got into lashes at Hush Lash Studio where I worked 3 years as a master lash artist/educator. I then started my own lash business and have operated it for 5 1/2 years now.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-angela-quick"> Read more>></a><br /> 406</span></p> 407<h2>Naum Lopez<br /> 408<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786713130402-personal_1786713130295_1786713130295_naum_lopez_img_0352.jpeg" /></h2> 409<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Before starting my business, I worked in the restaurant industry. It was a stressful job with long hours, and I spent most of my time indoors. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, the restaurants closed, and I suddenly found myself without a job. Around that time, a friend invited me to help him with painting projects. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-naum-lopez-of-kc-mo-painting-remodeling-llc">Read more>></a><br /> 410</span></p> 411<h2>Vanessa Grayson</h2> 412<p><span data-sheets-root="1">More than eleven years ago while pregnant with my son, I started my career as a Leasing Professional after meeting with a General Manager unintentionally. She really opened my eyes to transitioning from the hours and lift of the service industry and do to something that supported the lifestyle that I needed to be a mother as well. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-vanessa-grayson-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 413</span></p> 414<h2>Ghadeer Garcia</h2> 415<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Honestly, if you trace it all back, it’s really just one thing: I’ve always cared more about people than org charts. I started in the corporate world doing change management and I learned fast that companies don’t actually change, the people do. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-ghadeer-garcias-story">Read more>></a><br /> 416</span></p> 417<h2>Danny Lamb<br /> 418<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785939465137-personal_1785939464877_1785939464877_danny_lamb_img_0355.jpeg" /></h2> 419<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was 12 years old when I started voice lessons. Mom forcing me to take them after a conversation that she had with a retired Singer from the Phantom Of The Opera, who taught voice lessons, and had identified a good little Boy Soprano voice inside of me. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-danny-lamb-of-other">Read more>></a><br /> 420</span></p> 421<h2>Luna Isham<br /> 422<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785934554746-personal_1785934554002_1785934554002_luna_isham_gptempdownload.jpeg" /></h2> 423<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started doing YouTube videos as a teenager, I grew up in the era of the internet and it looked like a blast. At first my sister and I did a channel together which is now defunct. In college, I began to dedicate a lot more time to it, at the time lifestyle channels and vlogs were all the rage. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-luna-isham-of-other-not-applicable">Read more>></a><br /> 424</span></p> 425<h2>Blake Isaacson<br /> 426<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785886777568-personal_1785886777429_1785886777429_blakeiker_isaacson_img_4901.jpeg" /></h2> 427<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâm an independent music artist rising in the underground scene- creating a unique sound by blending elements from multiple genres! Started making music on SoundCloud in the basement to earning the respect from the city! Creating a community of people who are unapologetically themselves <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-blake-isaacson-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 428</span></p> 429<h2>Megan Kelly<br /> 430<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785881874114-personal_1785881873911_1785881873911_megan_kelly_img_1367.jpg" /></h2> 431<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Photography began as a creative outlet long before I ever imagined it would become my career. I was always the one with a camera in hand, documenting the people I loved and the little moments that often went unnoticed. What started as a hobby gradually became something much bigger as I realized I wasn’t just taking photos- I was preserving memories and telling stories.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-megan-kelly-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 432</span></p> 433<h2>Jessica Fisher<br /> 434<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785851539461-personal_1785851539354_1785851539354_jessica_fisher_img_3823.jpeg" /></h2> 435<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Photography came into my life in a way I never expected. In August of 2018, I started modeling. One of the photographers I worked with let me edit my own photos, and that was the moment everything changed for me. I instantly fell in love with the editing process. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-jessica-fisher">Read more>></a><br /> 436</span></p> 437<h2>Kelli Hearn<br /> 438<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785877214603-personal_1785877214390_1785877214389_kelli_hearn_1000025858.jpg" /></h2> 439<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I’ve always been a relatively creative person but oddly enough, I’d considered myself a writer rather than artist. After moving back to Kansas City in 2019 and going through the emotional roller-coaster that was Covid-19 and protests in 2020, writing didn’t seem to be enough. I purchased a refurbished iPad and Procreate and my world o
439pened up.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-kelli-hearns-story"> Read more>></a><br /> 440</span></p> 441<h2>Richey Huffman<br /> 442<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785876392292-personal_1785876391755_1785876391752_richey_huffman_1000054010-1.jpg" /></h2> 443<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Well, When I was a kid, my dad bought me a small little camera, nothing special but I liked it, Years would go by & I’d still have a camera, but in 2018 my friend ‘ Dave ‘ let me borrow his camera at our local air show. It was my first dslr I ever used! To say the least I was hooked. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-richey-huffman">Read more>></a><br /> 444</span></p> 445<h2>Ken Downs<br /> 446<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785874228151-personal_1785874227990_1785874227990_ken_downs_ken-2-a.jpeg" /></h2> 447<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I was an amateur photographer all of my adult life. My career was at the Honeywell located here in Kansas City Missouri. I retired about 17 years ago from their purchasing department . About 13 years ago, my nephew bought me Watercolor paint as a gift. This started a new adventure as being an artist. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-ken-downs-of-art-by-ken-downs/">Read more>></a><br /> 448</span></p> 449<h2>Tatyana Hopkins<br /> 450<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785859286876-personal_1785859288092_1785859288092_tatyana_hopkins_professional-pic-th.jpg" /></h2> 451<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started out cosmetology school my senior year of high school to learn more about my hair. Throughout that time period God begin to reveal to me that he has more for me. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-tatyana-hopkinss-story">Read more>></a><br /> 452</span></p> 453<h2>FAMOUS RENO<br /> 454<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785845283427-personal_1785845283304_1785845283304_famous_reno_img_1464.jpeg" /></h2> 455<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâm FAMOUS RENO. I ainât got some crazy story where everything was perfect. I just know what it feel like to want more outta life than whatâs in front of me. I got tired of watching other people live the life I knew I was capable of having, so I started putting the work in. This music ainât no gimmick to me. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-famous-reno">Read more>></a><br /> 456</span></p> 457<h2>Andrew Johnson<br /> 458<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785808641744-personal_1785808641476_1785808641476_andrew_johnson_img_2096.jpg" /></h2> 459<p><span data-sheets-root="1">One day, when I was twelve, I snagged my dadâs acoustic guitar, locked myself in my bedroom, and stayed there until I had learned the three chords required to play Buffalo Springfieldâs âFor What Itâs Worth.â I guess thatâs how it started. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-andrew-johnson-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 460</span></p> 461<h2>Colby Holtman<br /> 462<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785764414696-personal_1785764414600_1785764414600_colby_holtman_colby-5x7-min.jpg" /></h2> 463<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I always liked to tell people that I’m just a small-town kid with big-city dreams. Growing up, I was always told I spent too much time watching television and movies. What may have seemed like simply sitting in front of a screen was actually the beginning of something much bigger. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-colby-holtman/">Read more>></a><br /> 464</span></p> 465<h2>Joshua Thornton<br /> 466<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785346670208-personal_1785346671792_1785346671792_joshua_thornton_pxl_20251005_164134645mp.jpg" /></h2> 467<p><span data-sheets-root="1">It’s really not that entertaining or complex of a story. I just got to a point in my life where I wanted to be my own boss. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-joshua-thornton-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 468</span></p> 469<h2>Andrea Shelby<br /> 470<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785260943663-personal_1785260943267_1785260943266_andrea_shelby_1000004634.jpg" /></h2> 471<p><span data-sheets-root="1">The KC Juke House was established 2007, by my father Benny Shelby. I worked beside him until 2012 when retired. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-andrea-shelby-of-the-kansas-city-blues-juke-house-restaurant-bar">Read more>></a><br /> 472</span></p> 473<h2>Jalen Hinnen<br /> 474<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785259730884-personal_1785259730654_1785259730654_jalen_hinnen_img_0407.jpeg" /></h2> 475<p><span data-sheets-root="1">
475In 2019 I started a TikTok account @curls.with.jay where I posted tutorials and tips for anyone with curly or wavy hair. It quickly gained a lot of traction and I was helping so many people embrace their natural texture for the first time. This led me to cosmetology school, which led me to Kansas City to become a curl specialist in 2024. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-jalen-hinnen-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a></span></p> 476<h2>Krista Moon<br /> 477<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1784858751863-personal_1784858751785_1784858751784_krista_t_img_2854.jpeg" /></h2> 478<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I am a born again believer since I was a little girl. My mother was an evangelist and Pastor. I grew up in a household of faith. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-krista-moon-of-gracious-guidance-christian-coaching">Read more>></a><br /> 479</span></p> 480<h2>Ryan Spilman<br /> 481<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1784826714191-personal_1784826714105_1784826714105_ryan_spilman_img_4955.jpeg" /></h2> 482<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I had a buddy that got into tattooont and naturally I started getting tattooed by him. My brother and I would book same day appts and my brother always told Jordan if he wanted an apprentice Ryan is a good artist. Never took it seriously and always laughed it off. Back tracking a little; I was always above average in school in art. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-ryan-spilman-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 483</span></p> 484<h2>Jennifer Bricker-Pugh<br /> 485<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786547355542-personal_1786547355319_for-interview.jpg" /></h2> 486<p><span data-sheets-root="1">As a fine artist and entrepreneur, I am always looking for ways to my express and grow my creativity and after having my art studio in my home for several years, I was ready to move into a more public and accessible studio space. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-jennifer-bricker-pugh-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 487</span></p> 488<h2>Pam Meek<br /> 489<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786547355542-personal_1786547355319_for-interview.jpg" /></h2> 490<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I joined the Blue Springs City Theatre board ten years ago after my granddaughter developed an interest in performing in some of its shows. After learning more about the organization and its programs, I was invited to join the board. My professional background in nonprofit organizations and administration prepared me well for the role. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-pam-meeks-story">Read more>></a><br /> 491</span></p> 492<h2>Justin Corbin<br /> 493<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786320559893-personal_1786320558454_1786320558454_justin_corbin_hautlle_live_ww_072126_full.jpg" /></h2> 494<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Some of my earliest memories involve messing around with recorded sound. I had one of those tan Fisher-Price cassette recorders with a built-in handle as a kid. I would take it around recording sounds, and I remember discovering that if I partially pressed the pause button while recording, it would interfere with the tape and distort the sound. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-justin-corbins-story">Read more>></a><br /> 495</span></p> 496<h2>Allison Moses<br /> 497<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786491979568-personal_1786491978766_1786491978766_allison_moses_savrphotography-20-2.jpg" /></h2> 498<p><span data-sheets-root="1">In 2017 one day I was just done with my life and that current path I was on. It seemed the more I tired to make others around me happy – the further I got away from self. I surrendered and started setting small goals and living for my daughter and I. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-allison-moses-of-confident-beatdown-cosmetics-llc">Read more>></a><br /> 499</span></p> 500<h2>Dana Wright<br /> 501<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786471149214-personal_1786471147740_1786471147740_dana_wright_danakmbz.jpg" /></h2> 502<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My name is Dana and I am a career story teller, and story saver. I’ve lived my entire life in Kansas and I have been blessed with a 32 year broadcasting career in my home state. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-dana-wright-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a></span></p> 503<h2>steph shannon<br /> 504<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786462742580-personal_1786462739691_1786462739691_steph_shannon_steph_shannon-05414.jpg" /></h2> 505<p><span data-sheets-root="1">After an accomplished career in film and television productionâincluding ten years as the Kansas City Film CommissionerâI made a significant career pivot: I became a fundraiser for Kansas City PBS. It was a major change, but not an unfamiliar organization. I had loved PBS for years, had worked with Kansas City PBS professionally, and volunteered for on-air pledge drives. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-steph-shannon-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 506</span></p> 507<h2>Adam Raynes<br /> 508<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786457282131-personal_1786457281969_1786457281969_adam_raynes_wellness-retreat-bts.jpg" /></h2> 509<p><span data-sheets-root="1">In high school, I was a theater kid. I had big ambitions to become an actor and pursue performing arts school, but those plans really fell apart through various life circumstances.<
509a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-adam-raynes"> Read more>></a><br /> 510</span></p> 511<h2>Ashley Nastave<br /> 512<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786400836181-personal_1786400836060_1786400836060_ashley_nastave_img_9508.jpeg" /></h2> 513<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I started Laundry Matters in 2020 after realizing there was a real need for convenient laundry services in our community. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hidden-gems-meet-ashley-of-laundry-matters">Read more>></a><br /> 514</span></p> 515<h2>Zareenaah Cooper<br /> 516<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786147061084-personal_1786147060900_1786147060900_zareenaah_cooper_img_5353.jpg" /></h2> 517<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I decided to go to Esthetics school in 2019, however, my story with skincare starts earlier. In my teen years, Iâve always had pretty good skin, and I experimented with the little skincare products I knew of in 2016. Once I started my winter semester in college of 2019, my skin actually started to have inflamed acne and hyperpigmentation issues. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/exploring-life-business-with-zareenaah-cooper-of-golden-esthetics">Read more>></a><br /> 518</span></p> 519<h2>John Livingston<br /> 520<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786139021987-personal_1786139021783_1786139021783_john_livingston_0s4a8418.jpg" /></h2> 521<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I actually have quite the story. From birth I wasn’t quite dealt a complete hand of cards. I was born to a Mexican dad and an American mother of Scottish heritage. My mother initially met my dad because he was her drug dealer and after some time I was born and 11 months later my brother came along. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-john-livingston">Read more>></a><br /> 522</span></p> 523<h2>Amado Espinoza<br /> 524<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786036886275-personal_1786036886177_1786036886177_amado_espinoza_ae.jpg" /></h2> 525<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My first encounter with music happened when I was nine years old. My school teacher gave me a pan flute and assigned us the task of figuring out a melody on it. I took the instrument home, heard a melody on the radio that I liked, and managed to play it on the pan flute. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-amado-espinoza-of-kansas-city">Read more>></a><br /> 526</span></p> 527<h2>Amanda Rushly<br /> 528<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785942481946-personal_1785942481845_1785942481845_amanda_rushly_img_2959.jpg" /></h2> 529<p><span data-sheets-root="1">From 8th grade on I always knew I wanted to be in the beauty industry. I was in love with all things beauty-hair, skin, makeup and nails. I have a twin sister that, bless her soul, always let me practice crazy Pinterest hairstyles on her.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-work-with-amanda-rushly-of-kansas-city"> Read more>></a><br /> 530</span></p> 531<h2>Mike Amos<br /> 532<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1785939547604-personal_1785939547481_1785939547481_mike_amos_11d9c2d7-ce84-4e0b-a5c5-8bfcc727f498_1_105_c.jpeg" /></h2> 533<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Our story really started long before County Line Lineage. It started when I handed my son Chris his first guitar. Chris never had a formal lesson. From the beginning he had a natural feel for music, and before long we were spending hours together learning songs, trading guitar licks and pushing each other to get better. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/conversations-with-mike-amos">Read more>></a></span></p> 534<h2>Josilyn Wakes<br /> 535<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/c-1786709481867-personal_1786709481775_1786709481775_josilyn_wakes_img_5692.jpeg" /></h2> 536<p><span data-sheets-root="1">After COVID, I was given a scholarship opportunity to attend massage school. At the time, I was exploring different career paths and massage therapy felt like a natural fit. I had always been good at helping people relieve tension and the idea of turning that gift into a career was exciting. So, I took a chance on myself and enrolled. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/meet-josilyn-wake
536s-of-touched-by-aliah">Read more>></a><br /> 537</span></p> 538<h2>Jenna Martine<br /> 539<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/c-1784238733231-personal_1784238732727_1784238732727_jenna_martine_selfie1.jpg" /></h2> 540<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Align Collection began with the desire to create truly clean, effective personal care products for myself and my family. I started making products in my own kitchen because I couldn’t find products that checked all the boxes; clean ingredients, plastic free packaging, effective formulas and a price that felt accessible. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/check-out-jenna-martines-story">Read more>></a><br /> 541</span></p> 542<h2>Cerise Hall<br /> 543<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/c-1784235705406-personal_1784235705316_1784235705316_cerise_hall_img_2794.jpg" /></h2> 544<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Thank you again for allowing Business Speaks LLC to share our entrepreneurial journey. We started out business here in the urban core of Kansas City in 2017 and purchased a commercial property in 2022. We are blessed to still be in business and have grown our footprint in our city. Business Speaks LLC has some distinct verticals 1. youth entrepreneur exchange 2.www.entrprenuerschurch. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-cerise-hall">Read more>></a></span></p> 545]]></content:encoded> 546 547 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/08/18/portraits-of-kc/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 548 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 549 550 551 </item> 552 <item> 553 <title>Celebrating a Decade of Growth: Lakeisha Bouy on Building a Salon, a Brand, and a Community</title> 554 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/03/26/celebrating-a-decade-of-growth-lakeisha-bouy-on-building-a-salon-a-brand-and-a-community/</link> 555 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/03/26/celebrating-a-decade-of-growth-lakeisha-bouy-on-building-a-salon-a-brand-and-a-community/#respond</comments> 556 557 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 558 <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:47:35 +0000</pubDate> 559 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 560 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=148108</guid> 561 562 <description><![CDATA[As she marks 10 years in business, Lakeisha Bouy reflects on a journey defined by resilience, purpose, and prideâboth personally and professionally. From helping clients feel their best to creating solutions for real hair and scalp concerns, her work has always been rooted in care and lived experience. Now, with a rebrand, a milestone celebration […]]]></description> 563 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="flex-1"> 564<div class="text-base my-auto mx-auto [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin) h-full"> 565<div class="[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1"> 566<div class="relative flex min-h-full grow flex-col justify-start gap-2 py-6"> 567<div class="group/message" data-message-id="698be741c9fc81a0a94dccaa7a9137d7~698be741c9fc81a0a94dccaa7a9137d7~CalpicoMessage~69c48eb8b938819c929a745b94a756a2"> 568<div class="relative flex grow flex-col"> 569<div class="relative max-w-full min-w-0 shrink"> 570<div class="flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow"> 571<div class="min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&]:mt-1" dir="auto" tabindex="0" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="e7992f14-f5df-4ffd-99f5-d7c16d49551e" data-turn-start-message="true" data-message-model-slug="gpt-5-3"> 572<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden"> 573<div class="markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling"> 574<p data-start="97" data-end="645" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">As she marks 10 years in business, <strong>Lakeisha Bouy</strong> reflects on a journey defined by resilience, purpose, and prideâboth personally and professionally. From helping clients feel their best to creating solutions for real hair and scalp concerns, her work has always been rooted in care and lived experience. Now, with a rebrand, a milestone celebration that uplifts fellow entrepreneurs, and plans for c
574ontinued growth, Lakeisha is focused on expanding her impact while staying true to her core belief: success is even more meaningful when itâs shared.</p> 575</div> 576</div> 577</div> 578</div> 579</div> 580</div> 581<div class="flex min-h-6 items-center gap-1 radix-state-open:opacity-100 opacity-0 group-hover/message:opacity-100"> 582<p><strong>Lakeisha, youâre celebrating an exciting milestone this yearâyour 10th year in business, which youâre calling your âsalonâ¢aâ¢versary.â What does reaching this decade mark mean to you personally and professionally?<br /> 583</strong>Personally, I did it! Professionally, I did it! So many businesses donât make it past year one. Iâve heard of several Black-owned salons in the area that have opened and closed within a year, so for me to say Iâve been in business for 10 years is huge.</p> 584<p>Iâve been helping men and women look and feel their best for a decade. Employing othersâand honestly, even paying bills on time somewhere other than home for 10 yearsâis such a major accomplishment. Iâve also built meaningful relationships along the way.</p> 585<p>Professionally, I feel accomplished. Personally, I am proud of myself.</p> 586<p><strong>Youâre planning a big celebration at the salon on September 5, 2026 that will also highlight other small businesses. Why was it important for you to use this milestone as an opportunity to support and showcase fellow entrepreneurs?<br /> 587</strong>Itâs important to me to give back! Everyone knows my motto: âSomeone helped me get to where I amâwho would I be if I didnât help others?â</p> 588<p>In a world driven by social media, I still believe in word of mouth. Iâm highlighting businesses that I personally use and believe in. Plus, hair and scalp health is more than just coming to the salonâitâs mental health, physical health, gut health, and overall self-care.</p> 589<p>View our Save-The-Date here: <a href="https://canva.link/9hdf2fcfpdb9yze">https://canva.link/9hdf2fcfpdb9yze</a>â </p> 590<p><strong>Alongside the anniversary celebration, youâve recently rebranded your healthy hair care product line with a cleaner new look. What inspired the refresh, and what message do you want the new packaging to communicate to customers?<br /> 591</strong>I felt like my old packaging was too busy, and many people missed the message. I wanted a cleaner look so customers could easily read and understand the benefits.</p> 592<p>I also wanted something more eye-catchingâsomething that makes people want to use my products, because I truly believe in them. They work!</p> 593<p>To view and purchase products, visit: <a href="http://www.intangibleinches.com/">WWW.INTANGIBLEINCHES.COM</a></p> 594<p><strong>Your products focus on supporting thicker, fuller, longer hair and hair restoration. How did your experience behind the chair influence the development of these products?<br /> 595</strong>Honestly, the beginning was personal. I saw many women in my family with traction alopecia and men with male pattern baldness, so I created a hair oilâH2O (still my best-selling product).</p> 596<p>Then cancer impacted my family, and I saw telogen effluvium firsthand. Once I became a certified hair loss practitioner, thatâs what really opened my eyes. I was finally able to identify what I had been seeing behind the chair all those yearsâthe client whose part was gradually getting wider, the flaky scalp, the patchy baldness that comes and goes, and more.</p> 597<p>It became exciting to offer clients real solutions based on my expanded education.</p> 598<p>Visit <a href="http://www.styleseat.com/Intangibleinches">www.styleseat.com/Intangibleinches</a>â for a hair and scalp analysis if you are experiencing hair loss.</p> 599<p><strong>As you reflect on the journey leading up to your 10th year in business, what lessons or moments stand out the most, and what are you most excited about for the next chapter of your salon and product line?<br /> 600</strong>What stands out most? The wins, the friendships, and surviving a pandemic.</p> 601<p>Iâm most excited about continuing to grow. Iâd love to bring another stylist into the salon to help meet the growing needs of the community.</p> 602<p>And Iâm excited for another 10 years of growthâpun intended</p> 603<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148110" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260228_063521-IMG_STYLE.jpg" alt="" width="864" height="1184" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260228_063521-IMG_STYLE.jpg 864w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260228_063521-IMG_STYLE-219x300.jpg 219w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260228_063521-IMG_STYLE-747x1024.jpg 747w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260228_063521-IMG_STYLE-768x1052.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 864px) 100vw, 864px" /><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148111" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172.jpg" alt="" width="1080" height="1080" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172.jpg 1080w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172-300x300.jpg 300w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172-150x150.jpg 150w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_20190907_075459_172-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100v
603w, 1080px" /><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148112" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PSX_20180908_210726.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="853" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PSX_20180908_210726.jpg 1280w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PSX_20180908_210726-300x200.jpg 300w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PSX_20180908_210726-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PSX_20180908_210726-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148113" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648.jpg" alt="" width="2000" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648.jpg 2000w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648-300x300.jpg 300w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648-150x150.jpg 150w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648-768x768.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20220102_094648-1536x1536.jpg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148114" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100.jpg" alt="" width="2000" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100.jpg 2000w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100-300x300.jpg 300w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100-150x150.jpg 150w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100-768x768.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20240808_182100-1536x1536.jpg 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148115" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132.jpg" alt="" width="1125" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132.jpg 1125w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132-169x300.jpg 169w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132-576x1024.jpg 576w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132-768x1365.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093132-864x1536.jpg 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1125px) 100vw, 1125px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148116" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304.jpg" alt="" width="1125" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304.jpg 1125w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304-169x300.jpg 169w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304-576x1024.jpg 576w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304-768x1365.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20251105_093304-864x1536.jpg 864w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1125px) 100vw, 1125px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148117" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408.jpg" alt="" width="1496" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408.jpg 1496w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408-224x300.jpg 224w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408-766x1024.jpg 766w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408-768x1027.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260110_095408-1149x1536.jpg 1149w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1496px) 100vw, 1496px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148118" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518.jpg" alt="" width="1496" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518.jpg 1496w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518-224x300.jpg 224w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518-766x1024.jpg 766w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518-768x1027.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260114_135518-1149x1536.jpg 1149w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1496px) 100v
603w, 1496px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148119" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/35661817376159721.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/35661817376159721.jpg 1500w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/35661817376159721-225x300.jpg 225w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/35661817376159721-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/35661817376159721-1152x1536.jpg 1152w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148120" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2808676697137357856.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2808676697137357856.jpg 1500w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2808676697137357856-225x300.jpg 225w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2808676697137357856-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2808676697137357856-1152x1536.jpg 1152w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-148121" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2942070603790731573.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="2000" srcset="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2942070603790731573.jpg 1500w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2942070603790731573-225x300.jpg 225w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2942070603790731573-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2942070603790731573-1152x1536.jpg 1152w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></p> 604</div> 605</div> 606</div> 607</div> 608</div> 609</div> 610]]></content:encoded> 611 612 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/03/26/celebrating-a-decade-of-growth-lakeisha-bouy-on-building-a-salon-a-brand-and-a-community/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 613 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 614 615 616 </item> 617 <item> 618 <title>Highlighting Local Gems</title> 619 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/02/05/highlighting-local-gems-9/</link> 620 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/02/05/highlighting-local-gems-9/#respond</comments> 621 622 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 623 <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:05 +0000</pubDate> 624 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 625 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=145615</guid> 626 627 <description><![CDATA[Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to […]]]></description> 628 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below â many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.</p> 629<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Whitney Gerstner<br /> 630<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769661712888-personal_1769661712716_1769661712716_whitneygerstner_1000009621.jpg" /><br /> 631</span></h2> 632<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I’m very proud of helping build two Sexual Assault Response Teams in Russell and Thomas counties. In partnership with Options Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, we have held meetings in these two counties and invited key stakeholders to the table to talk about how we can better serve the communities, survivors, and to help prevent assaults from taking place.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/story-lesson-highlights-with-whitne
632y-gerstner-of-downtown-highlight"> Read more>></a><br /> 633</span></p> 634<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Nicole Fordyce<br /> 635<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769091246605-personal_1769091244697_1769091244697_nicolefordyce_nicole-bold-journey.jpg" /><br /> 636</span></h2> 637<p><span data-sheets-root="1">In my opinion what is most misunderstood about our business is that auto repair is only about fixing cars. For us, itâs about more than that⦠itâs about trust and communication. When customers come in, they are already stressed about their vehicle and worried about how much it may cost. Our job is to help them understand what is wrong without pressuring them. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-nicole-fordyce-of-harrisonville-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 638</span></p> 639<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Kara Payton<br /> 640<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1768776962163-personal_1768776961601_1768776961601_karapayton_img_1887.jpeg" /><br /> 641</span></h2> 642<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Honestly I have a baker’s dozen worth of relationships that have shaped me for the worse and the better. I credit all of them for who I can say I’ve become.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/kara-payton-of-brookside-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight"> Read more>></a><br /> 643</span></p> 644<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Mary Khadivi<br /> 645<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769028681554-personal_1769028681088_1769028681088_marykhadivi_img_2912-125905-pm.jpg" /><br /> 646</span></h2> 647<p><span data-sheets-root="1">In my last months of college, I was stressed and unclear about what exactly were my next steps postgrad. I’d been working towards applying for vet school nearly my whole life but pivoted to interviewing for mission work (with humans). Our newman center at school introduced me to most of my lifelong friends. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/mary-khadivis-stories-lessons-insights-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 648</span></p> 649<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Ivory Thierolf<br /> 650<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769402765894-personal_1769402765468_1769402765468_ivorythierolf_img_7080.jpeg" /><br /> 651</span></h2> 652<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Hey little chocolate drop, you once said youâd have a gym with your name on it, something that was truly yours. What you didnât know then was that the vision had already been approved long before you ever saw the blueprint. Right now, you feel pressured, unprepared, and overwhelmed. You question, why me, as responsibility stacks higher and faster than you expected. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-ivory-thierolf-of-shawnee-ks-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 653</span></p> 654<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Auburn Ellis<br /> 655<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769059445447-personal_1769059445048_1769059445048_drauburnellis_img_0204.jpg" /><br /> 656</span></h2> 657<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I feel most at peace when Iâm on my yoga mat in a room over 103°. The heat allows me to completely disengage from the world, mostly because itâs too hot to do anything else! My movements and breath are rhythmic. I find clarity. After a flow of sixty minutes or more, I can carry the clarity off my mat and live in it. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/dr-auburn-ellis-of-downtown-kc-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 658</span></p> 659<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Lacy Duffett<br /> 660<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/c-1769294334947-personal_1769294334392_1769294334392_lacyduffett_d91726a8-3a9c-4726-a3d6-8cea4149b85b.jpeg" /><br /> 661</span></h2> 662<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I usually wake up before my kiddosâthough not always, since I have a five-month-old who sometimes wakes early and joins me. I start my morning with red light therapy and a quick pumping session (I’m a breastfeeding mama myself). From there I continue to ease into the morning before the rest of the house is awake. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/lacy-duffett-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 663</span></p> 664]]></content:encoded> 665 666 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/02/05/highlighting-local-gems-9/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 667 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 668 669 670 </item> 671 <item> 672 <title>Local Highlighter Series</title> 673 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/23/local-highlighter-series-8/</link> 674 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/23/local-highlighter-series-8/#respond</comments> 675 676 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 677 <pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:00:18 +0000</pubDate> 678 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 679 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=144731</guid> 680 681 <description><![CDATA[We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got [̷
6810;]]]></description> 682 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.</p> 683<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Narendra Saraf<br /> 684<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767642883684-personal_1767642883255_1767642883255_narendrasaraf_img_8295.jpg" /><br /> 685</span></h2> 686<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Yes!!!!!!! My thought process made me laugh and feel proud about myself. We all have been there. It was about my want. Again, it was about my want and not my need. As we all see new things around us that entice us to just go and buy impulsively, in hope that this purchase will give me a sense of satisfaction, make me feel good. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-narendra-saraf-of-shawnee-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 687</span></p> 688<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Lydia Alem<br /> 689<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767245055907-personal_1767245055349_1767245055349_lydiaalem_img_2867.jpg" /><br /> 690</span></h2> 691<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My self autonomy. As a human being I’ve always put authenticity at the top of my list of values. As an artist, it has been difficult letting myself be authentic without the fear of being questioned or judged. Through inner work and patience I have built a stronger sense of who I am that allows me to live more authentically through my music. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-lydia-alem-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 692</span></p> 693<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Miel Castagna-Herrera<br /> 694<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767739461528-personal_1767739461082_1767739461082_mielcastagnaherrera_-itzel-sanchezphoto1.jpeg" /><br /> 695</span></h2> 696<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Suffering taught me resilience, empathy, and how to keep moving forward when there is no clear pathâlessons success could never teach me. Growing up marginalized and often going without showed me, early on, that hard work isnât optional and that survival requires creativity, grit, and faith in yourself and your community. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-miel-castagna-herrera-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 697</span></p> 698<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Samantha Sander<br /> 699<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767902288591-personal_1767902287893_1767902287893_samanthasander_sam_headshots-3.jpg" /><br /> 700</span></h2> 701<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I hope people say that I was an advocate for creatives; especially for those who didnât always feel seen, confident, or supported in their work. I want to be remembered as someone who genuinely cared about helping individuals and businesses turn their ideas and dreams into something real through creative outlets. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/story-lesson-highlights-with-samantha-sander-of-mission-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 702</span></p> 703<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Sarah Reimund<br /> 704<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1768360412737-personal_1768360412014_1768360412014_sarahreimundtaylorwittig_img_3776.jpg" /><br /> 705</span></h2> 706<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Taylor: A big influence for me was my father. An entrepreneur himself he taught me the value of hard work and being in business for yourself. I grew up watching him work hard for his family which inspired me to do the same. Sarah: I was born to young parents that faced many challenges. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-sarah-reimund-taylor-wittig-of-riverside-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 707</span></p> 708<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Kendal Paley</span></h2> 709<p><img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1768421930136-personal_1768421929713_1768421929713_kendalpaley_kbp2025-12.jpg" /></p> 710<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Yes, I absolutely love my job and believe wholeheartedly that it’s the best job in the world. I get to celebrate love in a ton of different forms and spend my days surrounded by it.. How could you not be excited about that? <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-kendal-paley-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 711</span></p> 712<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Jonathan Pitallo</span></h2> 713<p><img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1768064593720-personal_1768064593298_1768064593298_jonathanpitallo_jonathanpitalloportait.jpg" /></p> 714<p><span data-sheets-root="1">What people often misunderstand is that my legacy isnât just about business; itâs about helping others and building a community that can thrive together. Whether itâs VIVE Promo & Print or VIVE in KC Real Estate, itâs always been about attracting, educating, and empowering our people. At the end of the day, Iâm just a guy in jeans and a black t-shirt. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-jonathan-pitallo-of-kansas-city-missouri-area-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 715</span></p> 716<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Tyler Minor<br /> 717<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767932864296-personal_1767932863644_1767932863644_tylerminor_1000018228.jpg" /><br /> 718</span></h2> 719<p>When I was a kid I always felt that my grandma Jane Barnes always told me I would be special me and my friends ran for the national track team at 9 years old and from that day knowing we were all ranked in the nation I can always look back and understand that I am bigger then whatever is in front of me to being scouted for division 2 at baseball at 15 years old, breaking all my city records in junior high school to various things with sports <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/tyler-minor-of-westside-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a></p> 720]]></content:encoded> 721 722 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/23/local-highlighter-series-8/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 723 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 724 725 726 </item> 727 <item> 728 <title>Highlighting Local Gems</title> 729 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/08/highlighting-local-gems-8/</link> 730 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/08/highlighting-local-gems-8/#respond</comments> 731 732 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 733 <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:00:08 +0000</pubDate> 734 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 735 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=143302</guid> 736 737 <description><![CDATA[Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to […]]]></description> 738 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below â many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.</p> 739<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Cheyanne Scott<br /> 740<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1766435630084-personal_1766435629688_1766435629688_cheyannescott_facetune_09-12-2025-12-57-43.jpeg" /><br /> 741</span></h2> 742<p><span data-sheets-root="1">One of the biggest lies in the beauty industry is the idea that people do not want to be themselves or that they want to erase what makes them unique. In reality, most people come to us wanting to feel more like themselves, not someone else. They want guidance, care, and expertise, but above all, they want to be listened to and respected. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/cheyanne-scott-of-downtown-lees-summit-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 743</span></p> 744<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Christina Hodges<br /> 745<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1766349411336-pers
745onal_1766349410913_1766349410913_christinahodges_img_9409-copy.jpg" /><br /> 746</span></h2> 747<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Iâve always believed in seeing peopleânot just their roles or photos, but their worth and humanity. I cared for my clients, colleagues, and community, listening to their lives and dreams. I dreamed big and worked tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality. Even in moments when progress stalled, I persisted, because surrendering would have dimmed the spirit I bring to every session. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-christina-hodges-of-gardner-ks-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 748</span></p> 749<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Patti Steel<br /> 750<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1766434489288-personal_1766434488606_1766434488606_pattisteel_proofs_meredith-mashburn-photography_3872-8681.jpg" /><br /> 751</span></h2> 752<p><span data-sheets-root="1">The part of me that felt I had to do everything alone and say yes to everything has served its purpose. It helped me survive, learn, and build, but itâs no longer sustainable or aligned with where Iâm going. Iâm learning to trust collaboration, set clearer boundaries, and make space for growth, creatively and personally. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/story-lesson-highlights-with-patti-steel-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 753</span></p> 754<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Emily Shackelford<br /> 755<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1767217870474-personal_1767217869914_1767217869914_emilyshackelford_emily-areti-shackelford-artist-profile-pic.jpg" /><br /> 756</span></h2> 757<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Earliest memory of feeling powerful? I wrote my first play as a kid and typed it up and figured out how to make copies, and I enlisted one of my younger brothers and some neighbor kids to read the lines, and we put on a mini play in the grass, in the backyard. Couldnât tell you what the play was about; I donât remember. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/emily-shackelford-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 758</span></p> 759<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Lauren Gonzales<br /> 760<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/c-1765436894554-personal_1765444435412_1765444435412_laurengonzales_rh1a4532.jpg" /><br /> 761</span></h2> 762<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Would I hire myself? Yes, I would. I would hire myself because at my core, I believe that our clients, and the relationships we form are some of the most valuable relationships there can be. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/life-values-legacy-our-chat-with-lauren-gonzales-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 763</span></p> 764]]></content:encoded> 765 766 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2026/01/08/highlighting-local-gems-8/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 767 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 768 769 770 </item> 771 <item> 772 <title>Local Highlighter Series</title> 773 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/30/local-highlighter-series-7/</link> 774 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/30/local-highlighter-series-7/#respond</comments> 775 776 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 777 <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 04:00:50 +0000</pubDate> 778 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 779 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=142952</guid> 780 781 <description><![CDATA[We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got […]]]></description> 782 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.</p> 783<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Bryanna Kimminau<br /> 784<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1766092172433-personal_1766092171938_1766092171938_bryannakimminau_b-kimminau-5871.jpg" /><br /> 785</span></h2> 786<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Since the last time I spoke to Canvas Rebel my ‘normal day’ has changed dramatically! My husband and I were blessed to welcome our first baby home earlier this autumn during the peak of both of our busy seasons.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/bryanna-kimminau-of-overland-park-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight"> Read more>></a><br /> 787</span></p> 788<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Ella Dawood ( Elshekh)<br /> 789<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1765766143731-personal_1765766143188_1765766143188_elladawoodelshekh_2025-02-06_084945.jpg" /><br /> 790</span></h2> 791<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Drawing. Drawing always helped me go through the toughest times in my life, especially as a child. It was a way of journaling without a language. I could say anything with drawing, I could cry with drawing, I could tell secrets with simple or even bold marks, I can be fast or slow, elaborate or minimalist. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/ella-dawood-elshekhs-stories-lessons-insights-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 792</span></p> 793]]></content:encoded> 794 795 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/30/local-highlighter-series-7/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 796 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 797 798 799 </item> 800 <item> 801 <title>Highlighting Local Gems</title> 802 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/22/highlighting-local-gems-7/</link> 803 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/22/highlighting-local-gems-7/#respond</comments> 804 805 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 806 <pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:00:08 +0000</pubDate> 807 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 808 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=142728</guid> 809 810 <description><![CDATA[Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to […]]]></description> 811 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds Over the past decade we have had the chance to learn about so many incredible folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds and our highlighter series is designed to give us an opportunity to go deeper into their stories with to goal of understanding them, their thought process, how their values formed and the foundations of their stories. Check out some incredible folks below â many of whom you may have read about already and a few new names as well.</p> 812<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Raven Fleming<br /> 813<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1761603607433-personal_1761603606974_1761603606974_ravenfleming_img_1668.jpeg" /><br /> 814</span></h2> 815<p><span data-sheets-root="1">What Iâm doing today that wonât pay off for years to come is laying the foundation for longevity, not just for myself, but for the community, my mentees, and the next generation that will come after me. Everything Iâm building through Ravens Cravings is designed with purpose and patience, because true impact takes time to grow. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-raven-fleming-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 816</span></p> 817<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Faith Ndavi<br /> 818<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1765080123691-personal_1765080123268_1765080123268_faithndaviflorlizmungai_10ff3fb9-af68-4228-b670-449c6cafd914.jpeg" /><br /> 819</span></h2> 820<p><span data-sheets-root="1">A cultural value we protect at all costs is creating a safe space where people feel seen, respected, and lovedâwithout judgment. In our community, we guard the culture of openness, authenticity, and spiritual growth. We donât tolerate gossip, comparison, or anything that tears people down. Instead, we protect the culture of sisterhood, accountability, and God-centered conversations. It’s when people feel safe, they can heal.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-faith-ndavi-florliz-mungai-of-kansas-city-highlight"> Read more>></a><br /> 821</span></p> 822<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Kathryn Miller<br /> 823<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1765311768052-personal_1765311770190_1765311770190_drkathrynmiller_rkm-38.jpg" /><br /> 824</span></h2> 825<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I without a doubt, know a peace and true happiness, when I rock my daughter to bed. In a room filled with nothing but love, wonder and potential. Holding a human that my body made, and knowing she, right now, knows no limits. It is a feeling of true peace but also gratitude. It is a feeling of infinite possibilities. And I love it.<a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/
825dr-kathryn-miller-of-rural-kansas-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight"> Read more>></a><br /> 826</span></p> 827<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Madeline Buechter<br /> 828<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1765485411052-personal_1765485410502_1765485410502_madelinebuechter_barbacoa-headshots-2025-_-adri-guyer-photo-31.jpg" /><br /> 829</span></h2> 830<p><span data-sheets-root="1">One of my mentors has always been Katrin Heuser, co-owner of Affäre. I met Katrin when I worked as a hostess in college at Starker’s Reserve on the plaza. I was 18 and had only worked in casual restaurants, and was totally addicted to the industry and the many different people I met. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/madeline-buechter-of-troostwood-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a><br /> 831</span></p> 832]]></content:encoded> 833 834 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/22/highlighting-local-gems-7/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 835 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 836 837 838 </item> 839 <item> 840 <title>Local Highlighter Series</title> 841 <link>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/15/local-highlighter-series-6/</link> 842 <comments>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/15/local-highlighter-series-6/#respond</comments> 843 844 <dc:creator><![CDATA[Local Stories]]></dc:creator> 845 <pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:44 +0000</pubDate> 846 <category><![CDATA[Highlighter Series]]></category> 847 <guid isPermaLink="false">https://voyagekc.com/?p=142417</guid> 848 849 <description><![CDATA[We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got […]]]></description> 850 <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way â we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.</p> 851<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Regina Daniel<br /> 852<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1764911679132-personal_1764911678714_1764911678714_reginadaniel_img_9197.jpeg" /><br /> 853</span></h2> 854<p><span data-sheets-root="1">At one time, when I was younger, I felt I needed to walk a path. But as age and hindsight comes, Iâve realized I donât have to stay the path. I can wander and still get where Iâm going. Now that I wander, I have more varied opportunities arising, than I did on any path. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-regina-daniel-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 855<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Hosea2Hollow<br /> 856<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1762801146752-personal_1762801146242_1762801146242_hoseahollow_img_0622.jpeg" /><br /> 857</span></h2> 858<p><span data-sheets-root="1">To do the right thing, the first time and to stay on track. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/hosea2hollow-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 859<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Alycia Earhart<br /> 860<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1762608415259-personal_1762608414204_1762608414204_alyciaearhart_9e1ba630-2027-4a8d-84a2-3623cccb2816.jpg" /><br /> 861</span></h2> 862<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Earlier this year I almost gave up painting. After months of creative block, the cost of supplies, and time required was a huge barrier for me. I listed all of my empty canvases for sale for just a few bucks to help with some unex
862pected expenses my family and I were facing. Unfortunately, and fortunately, I didn’t sell any. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/alycia-earhart-of-lawrence-on-life-lessons-legacy-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 863<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Daryl Haley<br /> 864<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1761008267231-personal_1761008268962_1761008268962_darylhaleyjrlucretiahaley_graphic-3.jpg" /><br /> 865</span></h2> 866<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Not everything we do is meant for social media. What people donât always see are the quiet, intentional moments that keep our family grounded â the care, prayer, and commitment that happen behind the scenes. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-daryl-haley-jr-lucretia-haley-of-kansas-city-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 867<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Lucrezia Mapelli<br /> 868<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1764295336460-personal_1764295335863_1764295335863_lucreziamapelli_img_2062.jpeg" /><br /> 869</span></h2> 870<p><span data-sheets-root="1">Letizia Maestriâmy âmakeup momâ from Milanâsaw me long before I fully saw myself. I assisted her for two years, and she was the one who opened the door to the world of fashion, the Venice International Film Festival, celebrity work, and TV work. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/an-inspired-chat-with-lucrezia-mapelli-of-crossroads-downtown-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 871<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Quentin Van Horn<br /> 872<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1764526834868-personal_1764526834364_1764526834364_quentinvanhorn_img_2010.jpeg" /><br /> 873</span></h2> 874<p><span data-sheets-root="1">I think in general the style of Craft BBQ is misunderstood around KC. When you ask someone about BBQ in KC they think of Gates, Bryantâs, Jack Stacks, and Joes. I love those places but there is so much more to BBQ than just the traditional methods. Only a handful of guys in KC are doing true Craft BBQ. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/quentin-van-horns-stories-lessons-insights-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 875<h2><span data-sheets-root="1">Brooke Bruce<br /> 876<img decoding="async" src="https://voyagekc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/c-1764867639825-personal_1764867638824_1764867638824_brookebruce_dsc_5779-2.jpg" /><br /> 877</span></h2> 878<p><span data-sheets-root="1">My day usually starts off juggling morning chaos: getting Carter ready for school, navigating his high-energy mornings, and pottying the dogs. Once I drop him off, my attention shifts to the farm. I open up and check on the chickensâ¦I give them feed, refresh their water, collect any early eggs, and make sure the roosters are behaving. <a href="https://voyagekc.com/interview/story-lesson-highlights-with-brooke-bruce-highlight">Read more>></a></span></p> 879]]></content:encoded> 880 881 <wfw:commentRss>https://voyagekc.com/2025/12/15/local-highlighter-series-6/feed/</wfw:commentRss> 882 <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> 883 884 885 </item> 886 </channel> 887</rss>
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