Join us for a flavorful episode of the GIFTED Podcast, where we dive deep into the inspiring story of Chef Esra and his journey in the culinary world. From humble beginnings to receiving the Kansas City G.I.F.T. grant of $20K, Chef Esra shares his insights and secrets to success. Get ready for a Cajun-infused conversation and some mouthwatering surprises!

 " My journey in the culinary world has been a rollercoaster, filled with both challenges and triumphs. But through it all, I've stayed true to my passion for Cajun cuisine."

• Chef Esra England

Key Lessons & Takeaways:

• Stay true to your passion: Chef Esra's journey in the culinary world is a testament to the value of staying true to your passion. Despite challenges and setbacks, he never strayed from his love for Cajun cuisine and continued to pursue his dream.
• Embrace opportunities: Receiving the Kansas City G.I.F.T. grant was a turning point for Chef Esra's business. It allowed him to expand his reach in the food industry, showcase his talent, and create new growth opportunities.
• Share your culture: Cajun cooking is not just about food; it's also about preserving the traditions and culture passed down for generations. Chef Esra is proud to share his Cajun roots and honor the legacy of this rich cuisine.
• Believe in yourself: Chef Esra's perseverance, determination, and belief in himself have been instrumental in his success. Whether it's getting through tough times or taking bold risks, he trusts his instincts and stays committed to his vision.
• Spread joy through food: As a chef, Chef Esra believes that food is more than sustenance. It has the power to bring people together, create unforgettable memories, and spread joy and happiness.

To reconnect with Chef Esra or experience KC Cajun for yourself, get in touch at:

📧 [email protected]

📞 (816) 337-0207

📍 3510 E 27th St, Kansas City, MO 64127

🌐 https://kansascitycajun.com

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

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Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

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Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Gifted Podcast hosts Dayonne Richardson, a teacher, author, and grant recipient from Kansas City Gift in an inspiring conversation about her entrepreneurial journey. She recounts the conception of her business Mirror Mirror Books, her self-publishing journey during the pandemic, and the obstacles faced in launching her children's books that feature African American characters. Highlighting the importance of representation in literature, she also talks about her range of merchandise including dolls, tote bags, and shirts. Furthermore, Richardson shares her future plans, insights, and the transformative impact of the Kansas City G.I.F.T. on her life and business.

"You have to embrace the process of creating and trust that it will lead you to where you need to be." - Dayonne Richardson

Key Lessons & Takeaways:

• The transformative power of literature: Dayonne Richardson emphasizes the belief in literature as a medium for change and growth.
• Importance of faith in the creative process: Artists should have faith in their creative process and embrace the unknown.
• Seeking inspiration outside conventional sources: Dayonne Richardson highlights the value of finding inspiration in unexpected places to foster unique and fresh ideas.
• Embracing feedback for improvement: Receiving feedback is crucial and should be seen as an opportunity for growth and enhancement.
• Persistence and resilience in pursuing dreams: Dayonne Richardson emphasizes the need to stay persistent and never give up on one's aspirations.

To reconnect with Dayonne Richardson or experience Mirror Mirror Books for yourself, get in touch at:

📧 [email protected]

📞 (913) 850-9156

🌐 https://www.dayonnenecole.com/

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

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Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

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Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Gifted Podcast, host Brandon Calloway invites guest Dontavious Young, founder, and owner of Equal Minded Cafe and Events in Kansas City's urban core, for an inspiring chat about his entrepreneurial journey. This young black business owner shares how he started his venture in 2018 as a café, a beacon of positivity, and a resource for the local community. Facing numerous challenges like competition, gentrification, and even city neglect of the surrounding area, Dontavious pressed on with his vision, bolstered by a grant from Kansas City Gift. He talks about the massive growth of his café and his intention to 'pay it forward' by mentoring the youth about entrepreneurship. It's an episode marked by relentless perseverance, resilience, and a true spirit of community development. 

 "Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle."

• Donatvious Young

Key Lessons & Takeaways:

* Embrace challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth.

* Surround yourself with a strong support system that motivates and uplifts you.

* Persistence and resilience are essential in achieving your goals.

* Stepping out of your comfort zone leads to discoveries and possibilities.

* Seek guidance and mentorship to accelerate your progress and learning.

To reconnect with Dontavious Young or experience Equal Minded Cafe & Event Center for yourself, get in touch at:

📧 [email protected] 

📞 319-486-2107 or (816) 561-2233

📍 4327 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110

🌐 equalmindedcafe.com

Equal Minded Cafe & Event Center opens its doors:

• MON: Closed
• Tuesday - Friday: 7:00 A.M.- 3:00 P.M.
• Saturday: 8:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
• Sunday: 8:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

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Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

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Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this riveting episode of the Gifted Podcast, we delve into the inspiring entrepreneurial journey of Dr. Karen Boyd, the dynamic owner of the gourmet sensation, Patisserie Patrice LLC, DBA Patrice's Culinary Collective, and the prestigious winner of the $50,000 Kansas City Gift grant.

Join us as Dr. Boyd unravels her stimulating business odyssey, marked by evolution, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Discover how this game-changing grant turbocharged her operations and the path she carved in the culinary world.

Through a lively conversation, Dr. Boyd injects us with her hard-won wisdom about the essentials of entrepreneurship - a cocktail of passion, hard work, tenacity, patience, and a hearty dose of mental and physical self-care.

Uncover her blueprint for a visionary teaching demonstration kitchen, a testament to her ingenious strategy to conquer market gaps whilst preserving her unique brand identity. Get ready to absorb her insights on the indispensable qualities for entrepreneurial survival - the agility to pivot in tune with market shifts, and an aversion to mediocrity.

Dr. Boyd's golden rules for the entrepreneurial journey include:

1. Self-Care is Paramount: Ensure you carve out space for yoga, exercise, or your choice of self-care rituals.
2. Stand Your Ground: Brace yourself to defend your vision, regardless of doubters.
3. Play the Long Game: Take things slow and steady, prioritizing a robust infrastructure.
4. Stay Agile: Maintain your readiness to swerve and meet new opportunities.
5. Build Your Tribe: Surround yourself with a nurturing network of trusted advisors.
6. Invest in Excellence: Whether it's hiring or outsourcing, always choose quality and avoid the pitfalls of mediocrity.

To reconnect with Dr. Karen Boyd or experience Patrice's Culinary Collective for yourself, get in touch at:

📧 [email protected]

📞 816-853-5876

📍 Patrice's Culinary Collective, 9721 Winslow Pl., Kansas City, MO 64131

Patrice's Culinary Collective opens its door:

TUES - SAT: 8:00 AM-6:00 P.M.

SUN & MON: Closed

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

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Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

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Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join your host, Brandon Calloway, CEO and Co-Founder of Kansas City G.I.F.T. today, as he sits down with Antonio Hatcher of Haul Pros, an early grant recipient.

Antonio shares his experience as a first-time business owner, the challenges he encountered, and the growth his company has experienced over the past few years. They discuss the importance of patience, automation, and delegation in the journey of entrepreneurship.

Get ready to be motivated by his inspiring story and practical insights that will resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners alike.

Key Takeaways:

1. Be patient and trust the process while working hard towards your goals.
2. Seek support and resources from organizations like Kansas City Gift to scale your business.
3. Automate processes and be well-prepared to handle business demands efficiently.
4. Delegating tasks and building a reliable team can lead to significant growth.
5. Small investments can yield substantial returns with dedication and perseverance.

Contact Antonio Hatcher of Haul Pros:

• Website: haulprosllc.biz
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 816-255-6489

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

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Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

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Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Business Development Manager Jordan Alford as she interviews our C.E.O., Co-Founder, and Host of the show, Brandon Calloway, as he discusses who Kansas City G.I.F.T. Is, why we decided to produce a podcast and what you can expect to hear from each episode.

Subscribe to the Gifted Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates. Thank you for joining us on this empowering journey, and we'll be back next week with another impactful story of Black business excellence.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Donate to Kansas City G.I.F.T. Today at: https://www.kansascitygift.org/donate

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Episode Produced By: BAJR Creative, LLC

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.