Woman-led Stories

Kharissa Forte, Grace & Grind

‘It’s not just a brand for me anymore’: How Grace & Grind put the selfless in self-care, Black wellness

Kharissa and Wesley Forte were once on the verge of divorce.  But after deciding to give their relationship a final push, the two went to counseling. The experience was revelatory, they said, noting it ultimately prompted them to create their own online media company — Grace & Grind — to share lessons and their story with…

Matt Lett and Jessica Teliczan, Paradise Garden Club

Welcome to Paradise (Garden Club): ‘The world might be on fire, but this plant is doing great’

No matter the color of your thumb, Paradise Garden Club has something for all its plant fans, said Jessica Teliczan.  Housed in an airy warehouse in Crossroads, the plant nursery and community space has become a bustling spot for greenery collectors and enthusiasts. Customers can shop in store, order shippable plants online, hire the team…

Techstars KC 2021 demo day

Techstars’ summer finale means closing investment rounds for founders, says KC leader

Demo day is as much about looking forward as it is an examination of a startup’s journey through Techstars, Maria Flynn said, teasing new dollar deals ahead for the 2021 Kansas City cohort. “There are already a number of investment commitments coming in, so we are focused on closing the investment rounds so the companies…

Arvelisha Woods and India Monique, Mattie’s Foods

A Bible parable helped connect vegan foods to Made in KC cafes; here’s how two sisters planted the seed

Now served at Made in KC cafes across the metro — from the brand’s popular marketplaces to the new Outta the Blue oasis and downtown trolley cafe — vegan goods from Mattie’s Foods arrive on plates thanks to growing hunger for more healthy options, as well as the wholesome ingredients of a community-built business. Between…

Sherri Corwin, Mixed Mutt Creamery

Midtown ice cream shop for pups churns out treats, therapeutic ‘doggo date’ spot for pets, people

Bad days especially call for ice cream, Sherri Corwin said, recalling one of her favorite self-care rituals and the way it became her freshly creamed, Midtown-scooped startup — a venture that’s left tails across the metro wagging for waffle cones.  “People really do love their pets,” said Corwin, who in February opened Mixed Mutt Creamery —…