Category: Kansas City

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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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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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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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Best Places to Eat in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As a native of Kansas City, I’ve spent my life looking for great places to eat. It can be daunting figuring out where you want to eat. Nobody wants to spend a bunch of money only to end up hating the meal they’re eating. Whether you’re just visiting or a resident looking for new places to try, I’ve got a list of some of the best places to eat in Kansas City. 

Golden Ox 

Golden Ox is a steakhouse staple and is the birthplace of the Kansas City strip steak. Meat lovers have plenty of hearty, delicious menu items to choose from. Come ready to eat as they’ve got plenty of incredible appetizers and sides to fill you up. 

The Rockhill Grille

The Rockhill Grille offers an elegant dining experience with American cuisine and creative cocktails. Friendly staff and a great location make it a great spot for a date night away from the kids. You’ll be able to pick from a variety of delicious choices for brunch, lunch, and dinner. 

Mildred’s 

If you’re looking for a breakfast place to start off your day right, look no further than Mildred’s. Family-owned and operated for 25 years, Mildred’s has expanded far beyond its initial status as a small “Ma and Pa” and has since become a booming breakfast staple. Plenty of options are available for sweet or savory breakfast offerings and coffee for a nice caffeine fix. 

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Any Kansas City native will tell that barbecue is an important part of the city’s culture. Joe’s Kansas City BBQ is a relaxed BBQ pit stop that gives diners an extensive selection of incredible barbecue to choose from. They’ve got three locations, but I recommend visiting the original gas station location if you have the chance. 

Garazzo’s Downtown

You won’t find a better source of quality Italian food than Garazzo’s. Italian eatery at its finest, they’ve been a staple of the community for the past 32 years.  Garazzo’s has a welcoming, familial atmosphere that makes their home-cooked recipes taste even more delicious. Be sure to try out the owner’s private wine label, Garozzo Cellars Chianti Classico, to pair with your meal when you’re visiting. 

Kansas City is filled with incredible restaurants that can satisfy any appetite. I hope that this guide will be helpful the next time you’re trying to figure out where to eat out in Kansas City. 

If you’re looking for other places to visit in Kansas City, check out my blog on some of my favorite places.

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 See Live Music in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

There’s nothing better than listening to music live and in person. Getting to listen along with a crowd creates an experience like no other. Here are some recommendations on where to listen to live music in Kansas City from a lifelong native. 

Green Lady Lounge

The Green Lady Lounge pays tribute to Kansas City’s jazz legacy with local musicians playing their own compositions. A retro atmosphere free of screens awaits patrons so they can focus entirely on the music and the people around them. The dimly lit bar has excellent cocktails for you to sip on while you enjoy the amazing music. 

Uptown Theater

This historic theater holds shows and events for a wide variety of musicians that all music lovers will enjoy. Following a $15 million renovation, Uptown Theater is one of the few atmospheric theaters still operating and is a must-see for any music fans. 

Knuckleheads

Knuckleheads has five stages that provide five different concert experiences for guests. For those seeking out big outdoor concerts, visit the Outdoor Stage and Courtyard Theater to see your favorite artists perform. For those seeking bigger venues with their own unique charm, visit the Knuckleheads Garage or the Saloon Stage. If you’re looking for a place to dance and drink, stop by the Fender Stage or check out the Gospel Lounge for a more intimate listening experience. 

CrossroadsKC at Grinders

The outdoor venue CrossroadsKC at Grinders has artists playing everything from rock to reggae and country to hip-hop. There’s something for everyone here though it’s always good to keep the weather in mind when planning on attending. With great food and an exciting environment, this is one of the Premier venues for live music in Kansas City. 

 T-Mobile Center

T-Mobile Center is an arena downtown that hosts popular artists for large-scale, crowd-packed concerts. As Kansas City’s premier home for live entertainment and sports events, it’s a popular destination for those looking to see a live performance so be sure to get your ticket early. 

Kansas City has a musical history that visitors and natives alike should take the time to appreciate. These venues are just some of the many options for music lovers to get their fix. 

If you want my recommendations on the best sights to see in Kansas City, 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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Best Sights to See in Kansas City

Hello everyone! Michael Gortenburg here. 

As a lifelong Kansas City native, I’m always eager to show off the sights that make this city special. Though the Midwest can sometimes be overlooked for its vacation appeal, there’s plenty of hidden treasure to explore, especially here in Missouri. Here are some of the best sights Kansas City has to offer. 

Arabia Steamboat Museum 

The Arabia Steamboat Museum offers an in-depth look at the historic sinking of the Arabia in 1856, as well as its recovery in 1988. The Missouri River claimed hundreds of steamboats along its 2,500-mile route throughout the 1800s. When the Steamboat Arabia originally sank in 1856, it brought down 200 tons of unknown cargo. Over a century later, the recovery of the ship brought with it a modern-day treasure-hunting story. Visitors get a glimpse into the past through the Arabia’s uniquely preserved materials. From clothing to fine china to children’s toys, this museum will capture the attention of all ages. The Arabia’s preservation is still in progress, so you always have more to look forward to in future visits. 

Kansas City Zoo 

Founded in 1909, the Kansas City Zoo has reigned the wild into the city for locals and tourists alike. The Kansas City Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals. They even have cameras for a live look at the animals after zoo hours. Their website offers a sneak peek at the more than 200 species represented at the zoo so that visitors can familiarize themselves before getting to meet them in person. From Allen’s Swamp Monkey to the American alligator, the Kansas City Zoo has everything an animal lover could want.

Kauffman Stadium 

Another must-see, especially for any baseball fan, is the Kauffman Stadium. Originally opened as the Royals Stadium in 1973, Kauffman is the sixth oldest stadium in the country. It gained its new name in 1993, in honor of the team’s former owner, Ewing M. Kauffman, and his contributions to the team. I recommend taking the chance to watch the Kansas City Royals play at home during their 50th season. Kauffman Stadium has seats that can accommodate any price range and guarantee an exciting ballgame experience for everyone. View the Royals Hall of Fame or book a stadium tour. 

The Money Museum 

If you’re looking for the “billion-dollar experience” at no cost, visit the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. The Money Museum shows visitors how millions of dollars are processed through the Federal Reserve Bank each day. Guests can view Harry S. Truman’s coin collection, lift a genuine gold bar, and interact with numerous digital exhibits. The Money Museum is a fun and free way to learn more about the U.S. economy. 

Kansas City has something to offer for all ages and interests. 

If you start to get a little hungry along the way, check out my favorite spots to grab a bite to eat.

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

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.