Woman-led Stories

How Kauffman Scholars’ 20-year run reflected the value of representation for Black, Brown students

Editor’s note: The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a financial supporter of Startland News. The legacy of Kauffman Scholars — an initiative of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation that sunset earlier in 2023 after 20 years — can be seen in the decades of students impacted and the passion fueling the effort from within, according to a…

This hands-on video production workshop at DeLaSalle will put careers in focus

A new partnership between a Kansas City video production company and a charter school serving teens along the Troost corridor is expected to give DeLaSalle High School students a stronger entry point into an emerging industry, said Jasmine Nastasi. “It’s a way to help with recruiting, to streamline the process, and to have an official…

KC tattoo culture inked on ‘Maker Nation Challenge,’ paying homage to legendary Grimm family

A new streaming TV series left its mark on a legendary Kansas City tattoo artist after the first of two challenge episodes featuring local entrepreneurs and creatives debuted — showcasing KC’s top tattoo talent tussling without drawing blood.  “It was the best party I’ve been to all year. I had such a great experience,” said…

If support for LGBT employees doesn’t seem obvious, this new chamber leader would like a word 

Kansas City’s LGBTQ+ community shouldn’t have to face its battles alone, said Tracey DeMarea, emphasizing the impact of allyship and the growing need for stronger support from the region’s business community — regardless of whether a company considers itself LGBT-owned. “Equity isn’t just an issue for businesses that know they have LGBT leadership or employees,”…

Health tech entrepreneur opening spa on the Plaza; Here’s how its ‘accessible luxury’ comes served with collaboration

After 20 years as a hospital executive, Ashley McClellan has a new way to help people on their wellness journey, the budding Kansas City serial entrepreneur shared. In January, McClellan and her husband, Brett, plan to open Sojourn Spa in the Cascade Hotel on the Country Club Plaza. “From my perspective, we want our guests…