As seen on Troost (and Ellen): Plus-size thrift store owner uses momentum to inspire others
Alesha Bowman had plans March 15 to celebrate the two-year anniversary of her plus-size thrift store, UnLESHed+, by opening a new storefront on the historic Troost Avenue. But on March 14, a nationwide pandemic forced Bowman’s plans to be entirely reworked. “You just have to pivot,” Bowman said, noting that she used Facebook and Instagram…
From finding SARS in sewers to brewing better beer, InnovaPrep scales tech from KC cleanroom
As COVID-19 began to spread, InnovaPrep could almost immediately see the reason why — and it’s a realization that has gained the startup some serious traction, explained David Alburty. “All the puzzle pieces fit neatly in place for us. The high transmission rate without definitive contact was one of the biggest tells,” added Alburty, the Drexel,…
Rightfully Sewn acquisition stitches new path toward re-establishing KC as garment capital, Lapka says
Rightfully Sewn’s acquisition by a 109-year-old nonprofit with national reach means more contracts, more employees and more impact for the mission-focused fashion company, said Jennifer Lapka. “No shakeups, no drama. The brand, programs, and team will stay intact,” said Lapka, founder of Rightfully Sewn, which this week announced a merger with Kansas City-based Alphapointe. “We…
Liquid barrier (plus fresh breath): Lenexa startup tests all-natural mouth rinse as COVID-killing solution
A couple’s curiosity in nutrition and health inspired TRI-OLOGY — a versatile liquid solution intended to combat oral diseases. Lab tests now are showing that same liquid solution to be capable of eradicating SAR-CoV-2, known as COVID-19, Janice King and Dale Winetroub said. “We’re not doing rocket science; we’re taking whole plants and when they…
Sky’s the limit — and answer — for Genesis Systems’ atmospheric water generators
Pulling water out of thin air — a concept too good to be true or too obvious to ignore? “The No. 1 problem we are going to face as a planet will be water,” said Erick Went, who serves as chief technology officer for Kansas City-based Genesis Systems. “I think we take that for granted…




