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Insights into Entrepreneurship: A Conversation with Michael Gortenburg

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg!

Starting on the entrepreneurial journey demands a unique level of determination and resilience to persevere despite challenging odds. Drawing from my experience in the competitive realm of Kansas City real estate market, I’d like to share some key lessons.

Launching your own business is akin to planting a seed. Nurturing it through uncertainties requires unwavering focus. The journey may test your resolve, but remember, success often emerges from the most challenging moments. Stay focused and stay determined.

I have found that business obstacles are par for the course. Conquering them is more art than science. Don’t be overwhelmed; instead, break down challenges systematically. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your startup won’t be either. Approach each obstacle as a lesson, not a failure.

Signs of success are often subtle. If your product or service is gaining traction, if customers are returning, and if your business is evolving and expanding—these are positive signs. Conversely, if your efforts aren’t generating interest or if financial concerns are mounting, it may be time to reassess.

Now, let’s discuss why Kansas City is a great place for startups. Beyond its strategic location and logistical advantages, the city offers a unique blend of urban vitality and community support. The cost of living is reasonable, and the real estate market holds considerable promise.

Kansas City’s central location makes it an ideal hub. The supportive community, coupled with a diverse cultural scene, provides an environment where businesses can thrive.

Want to find out more about museums and culture? Click here to read my blog on museums.

In conclusion, the road ahead may be challenging but maintaining a strategic mindset and leveraging the unique attributes of Kansas City for entrepreneurs will pave the way for success.

As we delve deeper into the complexities of entrepreneurship, let’s explore why Kansas City isn’t just a place—it’s an entrepreneurial haven.

Strategic Location and Logistics

Kansas City’s strategic geographical location is a logistical advantage. The location provides unparalleled access to major markets without the logistical complexities often found on the coasts. This central positioning streamlines supply chains and facilitates efficient business operations.

Cost of Living and Business Friendliness:

Another reason Kansas City is so appealing is its remarkably affordable cost of living. For startups watching their budget, this is a game-changer. Moreover, the business-friendly environment, moderate taxes, and regulatory support foster a climate conducive to growth and innovation.

Community Support and Networking Opportunities:

Kansas City isn’t just a city; it’s a community. The collaborative spirit here is palpable, with a genuine interest in seeing businesses thrive. Networking opportunities are abundant, making it easier to connect with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators.

Cultural Scene and Quality of Life:

Beyond the boardrooms and office spaces, Kansas City boasts a vibrant cultural scene. From world-class museums and galleries to a thriving music and culinary scene, the city offers a well-rounded quality of life.

Real Estate Potential and Tech Integration:

As a real estate investor, I’ve witnessed the untapped potential in Kansas City’s property market. The city allows for strategic real estate investments with promising returns. Moreover, the integration of technology in various sectors is propelling the city forward.

In conclusion, Kansas City will be a partner in your entrepreneurial success story. From its strategic advantages to the cultural richness and the promising real estate landscape, this city has much to offer. Consider making Kansas City your launching pad—a place where dreams are not just dreamt but realized.

Best regards,

Michael Gortenburg

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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Kitchen Gadgets That Make Cooking Easier

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

A home-cooked meal is one way to ensure you’re eating healthier, but it can be pretty time-consuming for those with busy schedules. For those who spent years relying on takeout, starting your cooking journey and deciding which tools you need to buy first can be overwhelming. So, I wanted to share a few of the basics I’ve used most often that make cooking easier and quicker.  

Chopper

Nothing can slow done your cooking more than when you need to stop everything and chop your vegetables. Chopping is a skill; if you’re a beginner, it can take a long time to get familiar enough with the motion. To cut down on time, I recommend investing in a chopper. Just place your vegetable on the metal portion and press down. This utensil is also incredibly helpful for those with mobility issues who struggle to make smaller movements. Now, you’ll just need to press down once and be ready to continue with dinner. 

Poultry Shears 

Cutting raw meat on a cutting board can be finicky, so investing in a set of poultry shears makes the process far quicker and easier. These shears make it easy to choose how big or small you want the pieces to be with less hassle. It’s also much more user-friendly if your kids are helping out in the kitchen. This versatile tool can also help cut herbs, break down a turkey, or quickly open a food package. 

Hand Mixer 

If you hate whisking, a hand mixer is a must-have for your kitchen. Whether mixing up cupcake batter or making mashed potatoes, whisking can be tiring and sometimes painful. A hand mixer halves your mixing time, making whisking more convenient than ever.  

Universal Pot Lid 

Some of our favorite pans we cook with daily don’t come with lids. This can be incredibly frustrating with meals that must be covered as they simmer, but you have nothing to cover the pot or pan. A universal pot lid will increase the versatility of nearly all pots and pans in your kitchen. So next time you’ve got a pot simmering, you won’t have to improvise. 

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what cooking essentials are needed to fit your eating habits best. This list is just a beginner’s recommendation for those building up their kitchen collection from scratch so you can make more time to create healthier, home-cooked meals. 

Need some advice on organizing? Here are some tips for staying organized!

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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Tips for Staying Organized

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Staying organized increases my productivity and, more importantly, reduces my stress. Unsurprisingly, a messy room can be a significant stressor, with some medical professionals saying a clean room can benefit your mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay organized so you can be the best version of yourself and reenergize your living space: 

Take it one step at a time 

When looking at a cluttered area, it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed by the task ahead of you. It helps when I focus on just one corner of the room at a time. If you’re decluttering your kitchen, go from one end of the counter to the other, putting away items and cleaning as you go.

Have a designated place for a “junk” pile

We all have small everyday items that get lost easily. Whether it’s your car keys, spare change, or rubber bands, having one place to put your clutter will help keep your space clean. This keeps extra junk from cluttering up other areas where you need space for something else. It might help to keep items you’ll always need as you walk out the door close to your entryway.

Schedule your organization 

Use a calendar to mark when you plan to declutter and reorganize. These check-ins will keep you on track with your organization goals and help you sustain them for the long run. For example, you could designate the first Friday of every month as when you’ll clean and organize your bedroom.

Learn to let things go 

The fastest way to get overwhelmed by clutter is to refuse to let go of anything. Even if it’s just once a year, set aside time for you to reexamine your items and decide what can be given up to make more space. I’ve found Marie Kondo’s  method the most helpful when determining what items should or shouldn’t be kept. You don’t have to part ways with every sentimental thing you own, but it’s beneficial to reevaluate what you’re saving because you love it and what you’re keeping because you feel bad about getting rid of it.

Though cleanliness and organization are not the end-all-be-all solutions, it is one way you can aid your stress levels. Out of all the stress-inducing things in your life, cleaning is the one you have the most direct control over, so take advantage of it!

 If you want to read my tips on being more efficient, 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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How to Prepare for a Long-Haul Flight

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Traveling to faraway destinations expands our perspective, but sometimes getting there can be rough. Some of the flights to these destinations can reach up to 24 hours, making for an unpleasant experience no matter how well seasoned of a traveler you are. Here are some of my tips on how to prepare for a long-haul flight:

Move Around When You Can

Take advantage of your time in the terminal while you can. Before getting on the plane, take a lap around the terminal and try to get in as many steps as you can before boarding. When it’s safe to move in the cabin, try to stretch briefly in the aisles periodically. It’s never comfortable being cooped up in the same position for long, so don’t forget to stretch your muscles.

Pack Your Own Snacks

Depending on which airline you use, long-haul flights are more likely to provide meals and snacks for you to choose from. However, if their meal selection isn’t up to your taste and their snacks do little to satisfy your appetite, your own snacks will help keep your stomach happy during your travels.

Stay Hydrated

Airplane bathrooms are never ideal to use, but with that many hours of travel ahead of you, it’s best to make proper hydration a priority. Don’t skimp out on drinking water because you want to avoid the bathroom at all costs. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with a headache. Instead, drink water regularly so you can be ready to take on your itinerary when you land.

Try to Adjust Your Sleep Schedule

Jet lag when traveling for long periods of time across time zones is inevitable. But with so much time on your hands, you may as well try to adjust your schedule while you can. Better now than in the middle of your vacation. Try taking something natural like a melatonin pill to help you fall asleep outside your usual timeframe.

Get Your Entertainment Ready

Download any music, movies, or TV shows in case the in-flight Wi-Fi is down, or the provided movie selection isn’t to your taste. The last thing you want is to be stuck for ten or more hours with nothing to do because you forgot to download your favorite movies or shows beforehand.

If you prepare properly for a long-haul flight, you can make the most of your time and savor it as part of the travel experience. 

If you want to read more of my traveling tips and tricks, 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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How to Exercise More Often

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Exercise is undoubtedly vital to staying healthy, but it’s easy for busy people to let it fall by the wayside. According to the CDC, only 28 percent of Americans exercise as often as they should. I know it’s not just a matter of telling you to make time for it, so here are some tips on how to exercise more often:

Exercise with a friend

It’s much easier to feel motivated to exercise when someone else is there to hold you accountable. Unlike an exercise class full of strangers, you’ll feel more comfortable expressing your limits at the gym or while working out outdoors. It’s also a chance to catch up with your friend more consistently.

Sign up for a class 

If you’re like me, you are more inclined to participate after signing up for a class. Cancellation fees can be an excellent motivator for getting out the door and going to class. There are plenty of options for you to find, from spin classes to Zumba to rowing. No matter where you are in your fitness journey, there’s sure to be a class that fits your comfort level.

Find something you want to do 

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. There are plenty of serotonin-producing activities that are fun and healthy. If you like to dance, there are plenty of classes and free tutorials on Youtube you can use as a starting point in your fitness journey. If you have mobility issues and find exercise painful, consider a swim aerobics class. Even just a 30-minute walk around the neighborhood is great for getting outside and raising your heartrate.

Don’t push too hard too fast

Everyone has to start somewhere. It can be easy to get fixated on your long-term health goals and forget the smaller steps it takes to reach them. If it’s been a while since you exercised regularly, start slow. You might be tempted to go hard right from the start, but whatever exercise you’re doing should be part of a lifelong commitment to staying active, and it’s much harder to do that if you burn out early.

Exercise is a great lifelong habit, but it can be challenging to maintain when forcing yourself to do something you don’t enjoy. I hope these tips help you figure out where to add exercise to your routine.

If you want some ideas for gifts for sports fans, check out my blog herehttps://michaelgortenburg.com/2023/12/21/the-best-gifts-for-any-sports-fan/.

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 Gifts for Any Sports Fan

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Any sports fan is likely to already own merchandise from their favorite team so finding a new sports-themed gift they’ll like can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for those looking to get something for the sports lovers in their lives.

Cooler

Whether someone’s tailgating or hosting a watch party at home, coolers are a sports game essential. No one wants to drink warm beers during the game. Whether it’s shelling out for a Yeti or grabbing a budget friendly Igloo, there’s options that fit any price range. The sports fan you’re shopping for will be grateful for the addition to their collection.

Noise Reduction Earplugs

Everyone loves to hear the roar of the crowd at sports games but exposing yourself to that much noise often enough can cause damage to your ears. Earplugs will still let them hear the roar of the crowd without developing an earache afterward. If you’ve got a sports fan frequenting games, consider buying them a pair of noise reduction earplugs. Their ears will be sure to thank you. 

Ticket Diary

For the sentimental type, a ticket diary might be the perfect way for them to capture every big game they go to. Long gone are the days of haphazard stacks of ticket stubs. Instead, this album can help organize and display their tickets, so no memory gets misplaced.

BBQ Equipment

Another tailgating essential, cooking barbecue is a surefire way to elevate any sports fan’s game experience. Whether it’s a set of grilling utensils or even a small portable grill that can fit in their trunk, there’s plenty of useful accessories to choose from. No one wants to pay the high prices of stadium food so making sure to eat before the big game is needed for anyone to save money. Gifting barbecue equipment can take your tailgate to the next level for the upcoming season.

Buying a gift for someone you love isn’t always easy. You want to make sure you get them something that they’ll love and appreciate. I hope that, with these gifts, you’ll be able to elevate the experience of any sports fan in your life.

And if you or your sports fan find yourselves visiting Kansas City anytime soon, learn more about visiting Kauffman Stadium 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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How to Save Money When Traveling

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As an avid traveler myself, I know that traveling is one of the most gratifying experiences one can have. You get to see new places, meet new people and learn new things. However, I’m also aware it can be a pretty expensive undertaking. Here are some ways you can save money on your next trip. 

Plan Early 

Hotel and airline prices are cheaper the further out you go from your travel date, so make sure to book them as soon as you know when you’ll be traveling. This will especially come in handy if you’re planning on traveling close to the holidays, as you’ll be able to beat the inevitable rush of people scrambling for last-minute tickets. 

Never Forget Your Points and Miles 

You might have plenty of points saved up to cover your airfare completely. Before you empty your wallet on hotel or airline tickets, check to see what points you might have waiting in your back pocket. 

Check Discount Travel Sites 

When booking experiences or reservations for the location you’re traveling to, do a quick search on Groupon to see if there’s a discount you could utilize. Tours may have group discounts available or some restaurants in the area may even be running a deal while you’re visiting. These websites will be helpful to find all sorts of savings. 

Set a Budget 

Setting a strict budget for traveling is a great way to hold yourself accountable. I know the urge to buy souvenirs while you’re out traveling is a strong one, but having a budget to curb it can be very helpful. It’ll also help you cut out anything extra you might not actually want. 

Car Rentals 

Renting a car when you’re traveling can be an expensive undertaking, but relying on Ubers or public transportation might not be the best option either. Payment for Ubers can stack up and depending on where you’re visiting, public transit might not be reliable. I recommend checking out cheaper options for car rentals like Costco, Autoslash, or Turo to find a better deal. 

Traveling always takes a decent amount of planning, but especially so when you’re trying to save money. There’s plenty of options for people trying to save money on trips. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to plan and you’ll have a perfect (and budget-friendly) travel plan ready in no time. 

If you want to see more of my traveling tips and tricks, 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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Travel Notes: Canada

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

I’ve been fortunate to travel well outside the bounds of Kansas City. Traveling is an incredible opportunity to broaden your experiences and gain a greater perspective of the world. I always enjoy soaking up the culture and noteworthy attractions wherever I end up. One of my favorite trips has been to Canada. With stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to suggest it as your next travel destination. If you’re looking to travel there soon, here’s my take on the people, food, and my favorite sights the country has to offer! 

The People 

The infamous stereotype about Canadians’ kindness rang true during my journey. Locals were eager to show me and other tourists the best places to go for food and other. Everywhere I visited felt welcoming and inviting for those visiting for the first time. Don’t be afraid to reach out! Some of the best moments I’ve had when traveling were getting to connect with people from all over the globe. 

The Food 

During my trip, I sampled some of Canada’s famous poutine and was very impressed. The fries are salty and savory like most cheese fries here in the States, but the gravy really does provide a unique spin on it!

If you’ve never tried real maple syrup, make it a priority the next time you’re in Canada. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to store-bought. You can even drizzle a little on a slice of pizza, just like the locals. 

The Sights 

Canada has some remarkable nature for those of all ages to admire. Algonquin National Park for starters is a provincial park established in 1893, making it the oldest in all of Canada. Visit the various lakes to observe the wildlife or get a better view of sights like the Oxtongue River by hiking one of the park’s many trails. 

The Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada, housing over 5,000 animals from over 500 species. This is a great spot for any nature lovers looking to get up close to animals or families looking for a good place to take the kids. Though nothing can beat the Kansas City Zoo, Toronto provides visitors the opportunity to observe the most taxonomically diverse group of animals in the world. 

My personal favorite sight was by and far Niagara Falls. Getting to witness the powerful rush of the water is an exhilarating experience, just make sure to steer clear of the edge of the river. You and your family can catch a cruise to the base of the falls or get a view from above atop the Skylon Tower. 

If it is your first time traveling outside the country, consider visiting our neighbors to the north. There are enough similarities to the U.S. to ease you into international traveling with enough new tastes and sights to give you a great experience. 

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 Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit This Time of Year

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg! 

Whenever you’re planning a trip, you should always know what it is you’re looking for. As a seasoned traveler myself, I want to share some of my favorite places in the U.S. to visit this time of year. 

Burlington, VT  

This charming New England town is nothing short of picturesque in the Fall season. Those looking for an unobstructed view of their fall foliage can take a scenic drive on one of the nearby mountain passes. Though Smuggler’s Notch is the most famous, I prefer the Centennial Woods Natural Area for a wider area to explore.  If you’re able to be there past the first snowfall of the season, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the two local mountains just a few miles out of town. Traffic for the ski resorts tends to pick up in the winter months so now’s the best time to get in some good time on the slopes. 

Williamsburg, VA 

If you’re looking for a more historical getaway, consider visiting colonial Williamsburg. Cooler weather makes traversing this snapshot in history far more enjoyable than the humid summer months. You can grab a nice cup of homemade cider or hot chocolate to sip on as you stroll down Gloucester Street. When you’re not watching reenactments or touring the Governor’s Palace, there are plenty of taverns and stores around to keep you busy. Gorgeous fall foliage provides the perfect backdrop as you tour through Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield. 

Key West, FL  

If you’re seeking a beach destination to hide away from the cold, then Key West is your perfect destination. Now’s the perfect time to visit for those seeking a quieter experience with the summer crowd gone. The weather also cools down to the more comfortable high 70s, a nice respite from the humid summer months. Stunning beaches always make for a nice opportunity to peacefully unwind. There’s also much less rain this time of year so you can take your time strolling down Duval Street without having to worry about packing an umbrella. And if you love a great key lime pie, there’s no better place than its namesake. Take your pick of some of the best pies on the island! 

Texas Hill Country 

If you’re seeking out beautiful views with manageable temperatures, central Texas has many great opportunities for more active vacationers! The Lost Maples State Natural Area is a great spot to admire the changing colors of the trees. Texas’ trees change their color later than most of the country, so you’ll be able to witness beautiful autumn colors past late into the season. 

Each season brings a unique experience to places all across the United States. If you’re looking for a retreat from the cold, consider a place that’ll keep you warm. Figure out what Fall vacation you want and look for the best destination for that experience. 

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 Museums I’ve Visited

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Museums capture different aspects of our culture and provide a perfect option for those who are looking to learn as they travel. As a frequent traveler, I love taking the opportunity to visit museums that cover different aspects of history. Whenever I get the chance to visit a museum and learn something new, I take it. Here are some of my favorite museums that I’ve visited: 

American Museum of Natural History 

Watch the history of the natural world unfold before you at the American Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Visitors can learn about and observe various extinct and endangered animals. The Tyrannosaurus Rex and Mammoth skeletons were highlights when I visited and are sure to capture your attention. 

Smithsonian Institution 

Located in Washington D.C., the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. Plus, If you want a cost-effective option for sight-seeing in the nation’s capital, admission to Smithsonian museums is free. I recommend the Entertainment Nation exhibit at the National Museum of American History where Dorothy’s red ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” are on full display.  

Exploratorium 

The Exploratorium located in San Francisco, California, provides visitors with unique tools and experiences so visitors can let their curiosity take them where they want to go. Visit the monochromatic room to learn about reflecting the light or use a microscope to view fish eggs in development. This museum will be sure to satisfy any curious mind. 

International Spy Museum 

The International Spy Museum provides visitors with an exciting look at espionage throughout history. Come face to face with spymasters from the past as you learn about the gadgets and techniques they used to influence others. For those with kids, this is a surefire choice that’s both exciting and informative. 

American Jazz Museum 

The final museum on this list is located in my hometown of Kansas City. The American Jazz Museum collects and preserves the sights and sounds of Jazz music. This museum helps keep these music legends alive through live performances, exhibits, community events, and more. Located in the historic 18th and Vine district, it’s a sure treat for any music history fan. 

Next time you’re in one of these cities, make sure to stop by one of these museums. You’ll learn more about history and have a fun time doing it. 

If you want to learn more of my tricks when traveling, check out my blog about it here. 

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