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My Favorite Sports Bars in Kansas City

Three men seated at a bar, intently watching a football game on the television screen in front of them.

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

When it comes to game day or just enjoying a great night out with fellow fans, KC sports bars are hard to beat. Whether you’re cheering for the Chiefs, Royals, or your favorite college team, these local gems offer the perfect mix of atmosphere, food, and drinks to elevate your experience. Here are my favorite sports bars in KC that you’ve got to check out:

Johnny’s Tavern

A Kansas City classic since 1953, Johnny’s Tavern is a top spot for catching the game with friends. With multiple locations in the KC area, it’s known for its relaxed vibe, extensive beer selection, and delicious food menu, especially its pizza and burgers. If you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a fun place to hang out, Johnny’s has you covered.

The Blue Line

Located in the River Market District, The Blue Line is the only hockey-themed sports bar in KC. Decked out in memorabilia and offering an authentic hockey fan experience, it’s a haven for hockey enthusiasts and sports lovers alike. Their bar bites and cold brews make it the perfect spot to enjoy a game.

No Other Pub

Situated in the Power & Light District, No Other Pub is a go-to destination for soccer fans, particularly Sporting KC supporters. With big screens everywhere, interactive games like bowling and foosball, and an energetic crowd, this spot makes watching sports even more fun. Grab some tacos or wings while you soak in the high-energy atmosphere!

Chappell’s Restaurant & Sports Museum

Chappell’s is not just a sports bar, it’s also a shrine to sports history. Located in North Kansas City, this cozy bar is filled with sports memorabilia that will impress even the most seasoned sports fan. You can choose to watch the game or simply enjoy the museum-like ambiance, all while savoring their hearty meals and craft beers that never disappoint.

Lew’s Grill & Bar

Tucked in the heart of Waldo, Lew’s Grill & Bar is a neighborhood favorite. It’s a laid-back spot that’s perfect for a casual evening of drinks, snacks, and cheering for your team. Their daily specials and welcoming vibe make it a must-visit, especially during football season.

Kansas City is filled with amazing spots to watch sports, but these bars stand out for their unique vibes and top-notch offerings. They offer classic bar food as well as more elevated options, so there’s always something to satisfy every sports fan.

What are your go-to sports bars in KC? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on social media. I’d love to hear your favorites!

And if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the sports enthusiast in your life, check out my blog on the best gifts for any sports fan to get inspired.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Best Places to Visit in Kansas City During Winter

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Kansas City transforms into a magical destination during the winter months, offering a mix of cozy indoor attractions and festive outdoor activities. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the city during the cold season, these spots showcase the vibrancy and charm of KC.

Crown Center Ice Terrace

The Crown Center Ice Terrace is a winter staple for Kansas City residents and visitors alike. This outdoor ice rink offers a picturesque setting to glide under the crisp winter sky, surrounded by the sparkling city skyline. After enjoying some time on the ice, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee from the nearby cafes.

Country Club Plaza

Country Club Plaza offers a variety of local boutiques and dining options to round out your visit. Known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and dazzling holiday lights, the Plaza becomes even more enchanting during the colder months. Take advantage of post-holiday sales and seasonal promotions at the Plaza’s array of shops. Many stores feature discounts on winter apparel, home goods, and accessories, making it an ideal time to refresh your wardrobe or find souvenirs.

West Bottoms district

The West Bottoms district offers a truly distinctive winter shopping experience, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. Its historic warehouses, now home to vintage stores and antique shops, create a charming and nostalgic atmosphere. Each store is packed with unique finds, including furniture, collectibles, décor, and more, making it a favorite spot for both serious antique hunters and casual shoppers. Many shops serve warm drinks, adding a cozy touch to your visit.

The Campground

The Campground is a hidden gem in the Stockyards District that offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for winter evenings. This combined bar and eatery has a cabin-like vibe with a modern twist, featuring warm lighting, wood accents, and a welcoming fireplace. Known for its inventive cocktails and a menu that celebrates locally sourced ingredients, it’s an ideal spot for an intimate night out. Try one of its seasonal cocktails or hearty dishes that perfectly complement the chilly weather.

Green Lady Lounge

For those who love live music and a laid-back vibe, the Green Lady Lounge is a fantastic option. This classic jazz club, with its dim lighting and vintage decor, creates a cozy and intimate setting perfect for unwinding during the winter months. The comfortable seating and excellent drink menu make it an inviting space for guests to enjoy Kansas City’s rich jazz heritage in style.

Explore more live music venues in KC in this blog!

Winter in Kansas City is filled with endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the season. From unique attractions to cozy spots, each destination offers something memorable to make your winter truly special. To discover even more ways to embrace the season, don’t miss my blog on Favorite Winter Activities in Kansas City. There’s always something new and exciting to experience during the winter in KC!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Favorite Winter Activities in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

I know winter is still a few months away, but if you’re hoping to plan a wintertime visit to Kansas City, now’s the perfect time to start prepping. Here are some of my favorite wintertime activities as a Kansas City native.

See a Show

Distract yourself from the cold by attending a show that’ll be sure to capture your attention. Attend a symphony or concert at the Kauffman Center or be dazzled by a Broadway performance. There are plenty of shows in the city that will be sure to capture your imagination.

Skiing

Did you know that Kansas City is a great place for winter sports? There’s no better time to hit the slopes with your friends and family than in the winter. Be sure to take advantage of the weather and swing by Snow Creek. There are slopes for a range of different skill levels and lessons available for beginners. 

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a classic wintertime for a reason and is an easier and more accessible physical activity for those who are unable to ski. It’s the perfect way to embrace the cold with friends and family and lucky for the residents of Kansas City, we have eight rinks in the area to choose from. For first-time skaters who are nervous about falling onto the ice, remember that everyone’s been there.

Visit Museums

Avoid the cold and learn something new by taking a stroll through one of several museums located in Kansas City. History, music, and sports lovers alike have plenty of options to choose from so whether you’re a visit or just a resident looking for something to do, give one of our local museums a visit. If you want to read about my favorite museums, read my blog about it here .

Go Beer Tasting

Missing the lively environment of a brewery in the summertime? Take the opportunity to enjoy a beer tasting with friends at a great local brewery. Visit Boulevard Brewing Co., where two expert guides break down the creation of all the kinds of beer served by the brewery and provide visitors with a beer tasting and a selection of snacks that pair perfectly.

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean we all have to stop having fun. Next time you’re in Kansas City during the cold winter months, consider one of these options, and you’ll be sure to forget the cold in no time.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Tech Gadgets I Want to Try

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg! 

The tech industry is constantly innovating and expanding its capabilities. As technology is integrated more and more into our daily lives, it’s vital to keep an eye on what’s new. So here are some of the more recent tech releases that have caught my eye:

iPhone 16

iPhones are a staple for a reason, and each addition to the lineup brings new features that make your everyday use more consolidated and convenient. Its customizable Action Button lets you quickly access your favorite features, and the new Camera Control Button offers enhanced photo and video options. It also boasts advanced AI capabilities, like real-time object recognition, making it smarter than ever. Features like Face ID continue to make it a secure, reliable option for anyone seeking a phone. The constantly changing format of the iPhone can sometimes be hard to keep up with if you’re not paying close attention, like the home button that was once a staple and is now rarely seen on a screen. So, if you’re an iPhone user, stay tuned for what’s next!

PHOLED Televisions

The quality of our television screen has continued to improve over the past few years. So, what’s the next step in these screens’ evolution? PHOLED, a phosphorescent organic light emitting diode, is a new way of manufacturing televisions. This tech offers a bright, vivid picture while using far less energy, giving you a lower energy bill without sacrificing viewing quality.

Bose Frames Tempo Sunglasses

These shades protect your eyes from the sun and let you listen to your favorite tunes simultaneously. Music lovers who enjoy the outdoors will now have a new way to take on nature in style. Gone are the days of carrying a speaker on your hike or praying your earphone doesn’t fall out during your run. This sporty, sleek design will let you enjoy nature with the perfect soundtrack.

Apple Watch X 

Rumors have said the Apple Watch X will provide thinner bands and new health features, like measuring your blood pressure, making staying on top of your overall health more effortless than ever. Like many others, I love using smartwatches to track my exercise routines and track my fitness goals. If you want to learn more about how to exercise more often, check out my blog here.

Whether or not you’re investing in this new tech, it’s worth paying attention to the more significant technology trends so that when the time comes, you’ll know what is or isn’t worth your time.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Easy Ways to Eat Healthier

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

For many, it’s hard enough finding time in the day to make yourself a meal to eat, let alone ensuring it’s got all your essential nutrients for the day. But healthy eating is critical to our lifelong health, so finding ways to incorporate it into our daily lives is crucial. Here are some ways I’ve found to help make eating healthier easier: 

Find smaller substitutions

Going cold turkey on all your favorite foods isn’t healthy or realistic. I’ve found it’s easier to find more minor ingredients in my day-to-day cooking that can substitute for something more nutritious. Healthy fats like olive oil are an easy way to ditch fats like butter in your cooking. Another easy substitution is whole or multi-grain bread or pasta instead of white bread to add more healthy grains to your diet. 

Prep your food 

Sometimes, the thing stopping us from eating healthier is having to prepare it. Prepping your food for quicker consumption can help make a short lunch break all the easier, to include veggies in. If you need help eating the daily recommended fruits and vegetables, pre-packing smaller bowls for yourself throughout the week can make it more convenient. 

Eat slowly 

Several studies have shown the benefits of taking your time while you eat. When you’re hungry, you might not even realize you’re rushing yourself as you eat, but it’s important to remember to sit back and take your time as you chew. Your body will be grateful. 

Focus on adding food to your diet

It’s much harder to stick with a healthier diet if you go cold turkey on all the other foods you love. Instead, you can focus on adding new, healthy foods to your diet. You don’t have to swear off eating pizza for dinner and instead can make sure you’re adding a side of carrots to the menu. There are also plenty of vegetables to sneak into your sauces without realizing it. 

Incorporating healthier choices into your lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight. It can be a challenging change in your life, especially if you’re busy like me. I suggest implementing more minor changes to transition them into lifelong habits easily. These recommendations are just some of the ways to help with this transition!

For other tips on building a healthier lifestyle, check out my blog about how to work out more often. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Best Books for Business Owners

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Running your own business is hard. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for decades, you’ll need all the advice you can get. As an avid reader and business owner, I want to share some recommendations for books that are sure to help both new and seasoned business professionals alike.

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

If you’re an entrepreneur just starting out, you’ll want as much guidance as possible on how to keep your startup from failing. This book details a different approach to building a company and launching new products and is sure to provide you with helpful guidance on how to adapt and adjust your business plan. If you’ve been in business for years, this could also serve as a helpful refresher.

Zero to One by Peter Thiel

For a more optimistic take on building a business, Peter Thiel offers business owners a promising look at the viability of new ideas. It can often feel like there’s no original idea left in the world, but this book help you ask the innovative questions that get you your standout idea.

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…and Other Don’t by Jim Collins

This book by Jim Collins builds of a study he conducted examining how businesses, good or bad, are able to find enduring success. Readers will benefit from understanding the kind of leadership success demands and the way risk can make or break a business.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

While this book isn’t necessarily focused on running a business, it’s an important resource for business owners to learn habits that help in their day-to-day lives. Professional lives are, of course, usually kept separate from your personal life, but building up healthy and effective long-term habits will ease both.

There’s no single way to run a business. The leadership style, industry demands, and risk factors can all change between each company, but there’s usually just enough overlap to figure out what does or doesn’t work. I hope these books can provide a helpful starting point so you can help your business achieve the success you’ve dreamed of. 

If you want to hear about some of my favorite books and bookstore recommendations, check out my blog for more.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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The Best Bags for Traveling

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Knowing which bag to use when traveling is essential. No one wants to be stuck carrying their items around all day, but you also don’t want to overcompensate with something bulky that could get in your way. So here are my recommendations for bags to fit each possible travel situation: 

For Day Travel: Fanny Pack

It’s a staple for a reason. It’s compact and convenient, having enough space for a phone, cash, wallet, and other necessities. These bags are handy when walking around a city for the day or visiting different tourist attractions. It keeps all your essentials in close reach and will take the weight off your shoulders.

For Hiking: Sports Backpack

If you’re planning a hiking trip, a good outdoor pack is essential to your preparation. Depending on the length of your hike, you’ll want a bag with enough room to support essentials like water and food. However, it’s also important to keep weight in mind. You don’t want a bag weighing on your back while hiking.

For Cross Country Road Trips: Duffel Bag

Packing for a cross-country road trip can be tricky. Depending on how many people will be in the car with you, you don’t want to pack too much and be squished together for hours. But you also don’t want to lack any other essentials you’ll need during your trek. I’ve found that a decently sized duffel bag provides enough room to pack what you need and get to it with ease in a cramped car.  

For International Exploring: Large Suitcase

International travel brings about a whole different set of items necessary for you to bring. I highly recommend investing in a suitcase large enough to cover your time abroad. Some carry-on bags provide a lot of room for you to pack heavy, but if you’re willing to check a bag, you may as well go all the way. Pack smart, but ensure you’ve covered all the bases for more extended trips abroad that contain everything you’ll need. If you want to know more about how to prepare for a long-haul flight, check out my blog here.

Knowing which bag will be the most helpful on your trips is essential whether you’re packing heavy or light. Think about what to prioritize and pack accordingly!

If you’d like to hear more tips about traveling, check out my blog here. Or, you can read my blog on how to save money while traveling.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Best Items for the Summer

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

It’s finally summer, and if it’s anything like the past few weeks, the heat will continue to be scorching. The high temperatures can stop you from enjoying the outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and make the most of your summer. I want to share some of the best items for summer that will keep you cool while you soak in the sunshine.

Portable Fan

Unless you’re planted on a beach, you may lack a breeze to help break the heat. A small, portable fan can bring the breeze to you and keep you cool wherever you are. I like to have it on hand when I know I’ll be sitting in the same spot outside for a long time. An outdoor concert or show becomes all the more tolerable in the heat when you’ve got this in your back pocket.

Compact Speaker

Whether you’re spending time soaking up the sun in the yard or hosting a barbecue for the neighborhood, a speaker is sure to liven things up. I recommend a more compact model so you can bring it with you on any trips to the park or beach. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Dehydration is no joke, and if you plan to spend any time in the sun, you should plan to stay hydrated. A reusable water bottle you can bring on the go will make it easy to drink and refill on your journey.

A Sun Hat

The best way to protect yourself from the sun is coverage. Any kind of hat, whether it’s a baseball cap to support your favorite team or a wide-brimmed hat, will protect your scalp and face from burning and help keep you cool while you’re outside. These seasonal hats come with all sorts of brim sizes, so you can pick how much coverage you want.

Picnic Blanket

If you’re anything like me, you love spending time outdoors during summertime. But sometimes places to sit, especially parks on a busy day, can be hard to come by. I suggest keeping a picnic blanket on hand for any park, beach, or concert outings. I prefer ones with an easy-to-clean, waterproof underside, so I don’t have to worry about any mess.

Summer is a beautiful season with plenty of great outdoor activities to explore, but higher temperatures can sometimes interrupt plans. I hope some of these items will help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer!

If you’d like to see some other seasonal travel tips from me, check out my blog here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Handiest Items for the Summer

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

It’s finally summer, and, if it’s anything like the past few weeks, the heat will continue to be scorching. The high temperatures can stop you from enjoying the outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and make the most of your summer. I want to share some of the best items for summer that will keep you cool while you soak in the sunshine.

Portable Fan

Unless you’re planted on a beach, you may lack a breeze to help break the heat. A small, portable fan can bring the breeze to you and keep you cool wherever you are. I like to have it on hand when I know I’ll be sitting in the same spot outside for a long time. An outdoor concert or show becomes all the more tolerable in the heat when you’ve got this in your back pocket.

Compact Speaker

Whether you’re spending time soaking up the sun in the yard or hosting a barbecue for the neighborhood, a speaker is sure to liven things up. I recommend a more compact model so you can bring it with you on any trips to the park or beach. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Dehydration is no joke, and if you plan to spend any time in the sun, you should plan to stay hydrated. A reusable water bottle you can bring on the go will make it easy to drink and refill on your journey.

A Sun Hat

The best way to protect yourself from the sun is coverage. Any kind of hat, whether it’s a baseball cap to support your favorite team, or a wide-brimmed hat, will protect your scalp and face from burning and help keep you cool while you’re outside. These seasonal hats come with all sorts of brim sizes, so you can pick how much coverage you want.

Picnic Blanket

If you’re anything like me, you love spending time outdoors during summertime. But sometimes places to sit, especially parks on a busy day, can be hard to come by. I suggest keeping a picnic blanket on hand for any park, beach, or concert outings. I prefer ones with an easy-to-clean, waterproof underside, so I don’t have to worry about any mess.

Summer is a beautiful season with plenty of great outdoor activities to explore, but higher temperatures can sometimes interrupt plans. I hope some of these items will help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer!

If you’d like to see some other seasonal travel tips from me, check out my blog here[1] .

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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My Favorite National Parks

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As an avid traveler, I always appreciate a great view. There are so many natural wonders across the globe for us to visit, and I’m lucky to have witnessed some beautiful ones. Here are some of my favorite national parks that I’ve seen in the U.S.: 

Yellowstone National Park 

Yellowstone was the United States’ first national park, and 150 years later, it continues to bring in tourists for its geothermal features and wildlife. Just make sure you keep to the designated trails! The wildlife here is beautiful to view from afar but dangerous up close. 

Grand Canyon 

The Grand Canyon is famous for a reason. The grand scope of the features is almost overwhelming, with years of running water forming stunning rock faces. If there’s any national park in the U.S. on this list you should visit at least once, it’s this one. 

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail 

This historic commemoration of the Lewis and Clark Expedition spans 4,900 miles of the United States. My home state of Missouri is one of the 16 states it crosses through. On the trail, visitors get to follow the trail’s legendary history. 

Glacier Bay National Park 

The state of Alaska has many natural wonders to observe. At Glacier Bay National Park, visitors get an upfront look at stunning glaciers that make them forget they’re in the coldest state in the U.S. This park contains 3.3 million acres of mountain, beautiful glaciers, deep fjords, and a temperate rainforest, so you’ll be sure to find something that captures your attention. 

Mammoth Cave National Park 

Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system and home to a diverse group of plant and animal life. I highly recommend booking a guided cave tour when visiting. The park also has different tours to fit different fitness levels and accessibility so anyone can join in. 

Everglades National Park 

Florida’s beaches often hog most tourists’ attention, but there’s another natural wonder for outdoor lovers to enjoy. The Everglades National Park provides an up-close look at the Everglades’ unique flora and fauna through winding trails and guided tours. 

Americans have many natural wonders just a car ride away, with different climates and wildlife to suit your travel preferences. I highly encourage taking the time to plan out a trip to witness one of these for yourself. 

If you want to see other beautiful destinations I’ve visited in the U.S., check out my blog here. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.