Opinion Stories

Arredondo: ‘Kansas City nice’ is stifling innovation

Let me start off by saying, I love Kansas City. I love the humility. I love the blue-collar work ethic. I love the hospitality. I love the cost of living. In fact, I couldn’t be more proud to be a Kansas Citian. (I haven’t gone a day since the World Series without wearing at least…

O’Neill-Rauber: How my business failure begot confidence

I recently closed a business. Walking away, I feel a little lighter, a bit nostalgic, more confident and a lot smarter. My business was an online clothing store called TallChicksRule.com. Great name, right? If you know a female taller than 5’9”, you likely know the plight of tall fashionistas. I’m here to assure you: The struggle is real….

That’s what speed do: Startup Weekend showcases KC creativity and quickness

Business ideas can come from anywhere, at anytime. But few events are designed to accelerate a concept to an actual business in only 54 hours. That acceleration — paired with a team of innovative problem solvers — is the essence of Kansas City Startup Weekend. Speed, teamwork and creativity take center stage, and the best idea…

The WTF Series: Binary

On a daily basis, Ben Kittrell translates the jargon-filled world of technology for clients of his tech consultancy. The Words that Frustrate (WTF) series aims to offer readers some clarity in an industry dominated by techies’ confusing argot. Last week at the ScaleUp KC graduation ceremony, I was talking to friend and fellow Scaler Kacie…

Schukman: Is social entrepreneurship becoming business as usual?

One year ago, I started building my company by telling the story of social entrepreneurship to the world. Via a podcast, blog and other content, I launched Social Change Nation as the online hub for anyone who aspires to launch a company that makes a dollar AND a difference. At first, I imagined I would…