Minority-Led Stories

Startup’s next chapter writes itself: AI-generated bedtime story platform launches with language-building upgrades

With an emphasis on diversity and creativity, JQ Sirls’ AI-powered story generator is set to redefine children’s literature while uniting generations, he said.  “I’m really trying to create these magical bonding moments between adults and children. When adults use this technology to create their own story, it makes them feel like a kid again. Then…

New Kauffman CEO begins her ‘journey of impact’ with renewed focus on Kansas City

Editor’s note: The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a financial supporter of Startland News. Work within Kansas City to inspire education and entrepreneurship has a ripple effect across the region, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace; and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is doubling down on its commitment to the Kansas City community under her new leadership. …

She witnessed short-staffed hospitals as a COVID patient; How her ‘Airbnb for health care workers’ could save lives like hers

After her own hospitalization with COVID-19, Shapree’ Marshall set out to make sure local hospitals have adequate staffing to care for the community, she shared. In February 2022, Marshall — now a 2023 Pipeline Pathfinder cohort member — founded A Traveled Path Homes, which she describes as Airbnb for the medical industry. She plans to…

Artists as activists: Meet the KC group whose creative approach to advocacy needs little interpretation

A Kansas City nonprofit is training local artists on the intersection of art and public policy, hoping to create a generation of creatives ready to advocate for their communities. Heartland Arts KC aims to position Kansas City as a hub of local arts activism, said Logan Stacer, executive artistic director. “I want Kansas City to…

Stress at work is inevitable; just don’t let it trigger something worse (Holistic Hustle)

Kharissa Parker is a news producer, writer, certified health coach, and “Holistic Hustle” columnist for Startland News. The opinions expressed in this commentary are the author’s alone. For more of her self-care tips on how to keep your cup full, visit kparker.co. Let’s dive into the ins and outs of depression, stress, anxiety, and burnout….