The Men’s Issue
An inspirational man has the incredible power and privilege of shaping and mentoring the people in his life in many ways. Whether it is a father or grandfather, a coach, a neighbor, or coworker, a strong role model can leave a lasting impact. Most of us can think of someone who has influenced our lives at one time or another. It may have been someone who encouraged us to become a better version of ourselves, someone who saw the best in us, or someone we continue to look to for guidance and wisdom. Even from a distance, we can recognize the influence of someone whose character and leadership inspire others to live with greater purpose.
As we celebrate our June Men’s Issue, I find myself reflecting on the man who has had the greatest impact on my own life, my dad. Without a doubt, he is my biggest role model and someone I constantly strive to emulate. The older I get and the more life unfolds through different seasons of joy, hardship, growth, and change, the more respect and admiration I have for the kind of man he has chosen to be throughout his entire life.
My dad is one of the most humble and selfless people I know. He strives to be a peacemaker and believes deeply in understanding before being understood. His calm presence, steady wisdom, and quiet strength have shaped not only our family, but also the many people fortunate enough to know him. He leads with integrity, kindness, patience, humor, and grace, and he gives generously of himself without the need for recognition or reciprocation.
One of the greatest gifts in our family has been watching the love and devotion he has shown my mother throughout their marriage. He has created meaningful relationships with each of his grandchildren, always making them feel valued, supported, and seen. He has taught me that true character is revealed not by what we say about ourselves or from personal achievements, but by the way we serve and care for others each day.
This month, we are honoring men and the meaningful contributions they make to their families, workplaces and communities. We are celebrating those who quietly lead, work hard, inspire others, and make a difference in ways both big and small. To all of the men who continue to positively impact the lives of others, we applaud you.
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Dara Witte | dara.witte@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones | janie.jones@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Jamie Segall, Lauren Powers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
A WORLD-CLASS PAIRING BEFORE THE WORLD ARRIVES
A PRE-LAUNCH WORLD CUP CHAMPAGNE & OYSTER EXPERIENCE
SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2026 | 2:00 TO 5:00 PM | AQUA PENNY’S
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TAITTINGER COMTES DE CHAMPAGNE BLANC DE BLANC 2014 all featured wines will be available for purchase A BENEFIT DINNER FOR BRIE BAUER
SUNDAY, JUNE 21, 2026
5:30-7:30 PM | AQUA PENNY’S
$85 PER PERSON (gratuity included)
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2026
6:30-9:00 PM | AQUA PENNY’S Sponsored by Leawood City Lifestyle in partnership with Aqua Penny’s
This month we will be exploring, tasting and celebrating the Bubbles of England! TICKETS HERE*
Shop with us at 135th & Metcalf
Home Furnishings
Around Town
World Cup Events
June 11th – July 3rd
FIFA FAN FESTIVAL™ – KANSAS CITY
National WWI Museum and Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City | 6:00 PM
Kansas City's Official FIFA Fan Festival™ transforms the grounds of the National WWI Museum and Memorial into an 18-day global soccer celebration with giant screens, local food vendors, interactive soccer activities, and live concerts. Headliners include Tech N9ne (June 11), The Chainsmokers (June 12), and The All-American Rejects (July 10). Free to attend.
kc2026.com/
June 16th
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ –ARGENTINA VS. ALGERIA
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Dr, Kansas City Kickoff 8:00 PM | Park & Ride from Oak Park Mall, Overland Park Kansas City kicks off its World Cup hosting with one of the most anticipated group-stage matches: Argentina vs. Algeria in Group J.
kc2026.com/
June 20th
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ –ECUADOR VS. CURAÇAO
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Dr, Kansas City Kickoff 9:00 PM
Kansas City's second World Cup group-stage match features Ecuador taking on Curaçao. Park & Ride available at Oak Park Mall in Overland Park for match-day transportation.
June 23rd
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ –ALGERIA VS.
AUSTRIA
MATCH DAY AT PARK PLACE:
Park Place 4700 W 117th St, Leawood, KS
12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
(match times are based on FIFA schedule)
Gather in Park Place for a community watch experience as the Argentina v. Algeria match takes center stage on three big screens. Enjoy food and drinks from local restaurants, themed pop-ups, and Leawood For the Goal giveaways in a lively, outdoor setting designed for fans, families, and friends to celebrate together.
June 24th
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™ –TUNISIA VS. NETHERLANDS
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, 1 Arrowhead Dr, Kansas City
Kickoff 7:00 PM
Kansas City hosts its third group-stage World Cup match as Tunisia faces the Netherlands. Park & Ride service from Oak Park Mall.
June 26th - 28th
3V3 TOURNAMENT AND FUN FEST PRESENTED BY NBKC BANK
Leawood City Park, 10601 Lee Blvd, Leawood, KS 66206 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM each day
This three-day, festival-style soccer event at Leawood City Park features fast-paced 3v3 games for all ages and skill levels. Teams compete in guaranteed matches with bracket play finals, while spectators enjoy food trucks, music, games, and family-friendly activities in a high-energy community atmosphere. Plus, enjoy a featured match with Sporting KC Legends- Graham Zusi, Matt Besler and Tim Melia!
June 27th
TOWN CENTER TAILGATE
Town Center Plaza, 4700 W 117th St, Leawood, KS 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
A soccer-inspired summer celebration at Town Center Plaza, this tailgate-style event brings together families, fans, and visitors for live music, local vendors, games, giveaways, and interactive experiences. With food, entertainment, and special guest appearances, it offers a festive, welcoming way to celebrate the global excitement.
Community Events
June 26th - 27th
GREAT LENEXA BBQ BATTLE
June 4th – 7th
OLD SHAWNEE DAYS
Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th Street
Thu–Fri: 6–10 PM
Sat: Parade 10 AM | Festival 11 AM–10 PM
Sun: Noon–6 PM
Shawnee's beloved summer kickoff tradition since 1968. This free four-day festival features carnival rides, live music, vendor booths, kids' activities, and a Saturday morning community parade. Old Shawnee Days has long been the unofficial start of summer for thousands of Johnson County families. All performances are free; food, rides, and vendor purchases vary in price.
oldshawneedays.org/
June 12th - 13th
DOWNTOWN OVERLAND PARK ART FAIR
Downtown Overland Park, 7935 Santa Fe Dr, Overland Park
Friday 4:00–10:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
A juried outdoor art fair in the heart of Downtown Overland Park. Friday night transforms into a Night Market hosted by InterUrban ArtHouse, with illuminated booths, live music, and dancing until 10 PM. Saturday brings family-friendly fun with children's activities, art demonstrations, food trucks, and more live music.
downtownop.org/events/
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 8825 Lackman Rd, Lenexa
Friday 4:30–11:00 PM (public)
Saturday all day | $5 gate admission
The official Kansas State Championship BBQ Competition, started in 1982 and now attracting nearly 200 competing pitmasters. Sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and hosted by Lenexa Parks & Recreation, the event features live music, food and drinks, kids' activities, and a $3,000 Grand Champion prize. One of the metro's most beloved summer traditions.
lenexa.com/Events-Activities/ Festivals-Special-Events/ Great-Lenexa-BBQ-Battle
July 4th
LEAWOOD
CELEBRATION IN THE PARK
Leawood City Park, 10601 Lee Blvd, Leawood Aquatic Center
Noon | Activities & food trucks | 6:00 PM Fireworks | 9:45 PM
Leawood’s free, family-centered Fourth of July celebration. Cool off at the Leawood Aquatic Center in the afternoon, then enjoy mechanical bull rides, rock climbing, inflatables, face painting, balloon artists, food trucks, and live music starting at 6 PM. Ends with a spectacular fireworks display. Free parking and shuttle service along Tomahawk Creek Parkway.
leawood.org/
July 4th
STARS AND STRIPES PICNIC — KANSAS CITY'S OFFICIAL 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
National WWI Museum and Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City
Grounds open 3:00 PM
Fireworks ~9:40 PM (free, rain or shine)
Kansas City's official Independence Day celebration on the south grounds of the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Enjoy 20+ local food trucks, vendor booths, and live music before a stunning 20-minute fireworks show over the Liberty Memorial Tower. Free for all ages. One of the most scenic 4th of July settings in the entire metro.
visitkc.com/articles/everything-you-needknow-about-fourth-july-kansas-city/
July 4th
OVERLAND PARK STAR SPANGLED SPECTACULAR (RAIN DATE: JULY 5)
Corporate Woods Founders' Park, 9711 W 109th St, Overland Park
Food trucks & concerts | 5:00 PM Fireworks | 10:00 PM
Overland Park's beloved free Independence Day tradition at Corporate Woods Founders' Park. The National Guard Band opens the evening with patriotic tunes, followed by high-energy live bands, leading up to one of the best fireworks displays in the KC metro at 10 PM. Bring blankets, chairs, and coolers. Dogs on leashes welcome. All parking is open and free all day.
opkansas.org/recreation-fun/ arts-music/star-spangled-spectacular/
July 4th
PRAIRIE VILLAGE VILLAGEFEST
Prairie Village Municipal Campus, 7:30 PM · Fireworks 9:30 PM
Prairie Village's charming Fourth of July community celebration, VillageFest brings residents together for an evening of live entertainment, patriotic activities, and a fireworks finale.
pvkansas.com/
Big Smiles Start Early
Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first checkup by age 7? Join our Kids Club at Jeff Thompson Orthodontics for complimentary yearly visits and expert smile monitoring as your child grows!
JeffThompsonOrtho.com (913) 681-8300 | BVjeffthompsonortho 4851 W 134th St., Leawood KS 66209 Contact Us Today for a Complimentary Consultation
CREATING EXCEPTIONAL OUTDOOR SPACES
TIMELESS LANDSCAPES. LASTING IMPRESSIONS.
At Doctor’s Lawn & Landscape, we believe your outdoor space should be more than just maintained; it should make a lasting impression. From stunning landscape installations to detailed property maintenance, our team is committed to delivering quality craftsmanship, dependable service, and beautiful results tailored to your property.
Whether you’re enhancing a lakefront retreat, elevating curb appeal, or creating an outdoor space built for entertainment.
Salvy’s Way
Loyality, Leadership and Philanthropy
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Royals
Salvador Perez's résumé speaks for itself: World Series MVP, nine-time All-Star, five-time Gold Glove winner. And he's still adding to it. In 2021, he hit 48 home runs, setting the single-season record for a catcher at the time.
Photo by Janie Jones
He also delivered one of the most iconic moments in Royals history in 2014, with a walk-off hit in the Wild Card Game against Oakland, giving Kansas City its first playoff win since 1985. Now with 308 career home runs, he sits second in Royals history, just nine behind George Brett’s 317. Whether it is the “Salvy Splashes” after a win or the way he carries himself every day, there is a steady authenticity to him that remains the same.
It all started almost twenty years ago when he signed as a teenager out of Valencia, Venezuela. He arrived in 2006 as a 16-year-old and slowly grew into the heartbeat of the organization. Since his debut in 2011, he has become one of the most decorated catchers in franchise history, known for his defense, his arm, and his presence behind the plate.
Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Royals
Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Royals
Photo by Janie Jones
He has never forgotten what it felt like to arrive so young, in a new country with a new language and a completely unfamiliar life. Still, something about Kansas City clicked right away. “The day that I signed in Kansas City, I feel like I found another family,” he said. “Through all the minor leagues and playing big leagues for many years, I feel like this is home, too.”
That feeling only deepened over time. Eventually, Perez was named the fourth captain in Royals franchise history, a role he treats with real responsibility. For him, it is not just about performance, but about how he carries himself in the clubhouse and in the city. “Be humble. That is one of the keys,” he said. “Work hard, prepare yourself, sacrifice yourself, and learn from the other players like George Brett.”
Off the field, Perez has built a presence that goes far beyond baseball. He donated $1 million to help fund the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy, and his work with organizations like Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer and Sarah’s Soldiers, which supports families affected by ALS, has become a major part of who he is. When he talks about Sarah, the inspiration behind one of those efforts, it clearly hits him differently. “She’s my inspiration every day and is the strongest woman I’ve ever met in my life. We do everything for her,” Perez explains.
“She’s my inspiration every day and is the strongest woman I’ve ever met in my life. We do everything for her,” Perez explains.
That perspective is part of what made the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award he won so meaningful for him. It recognizes character and philanthropy, but for Perez it connects directly to the people he has met and the stories that have stayed with him. “Being awarded that means a lot,” he said. “It’s like winning the MVP in the World Series. It means that I try to do good things and to make some people happy. Sometimes we think going 0-for-4 is the worst thing in our life. But when you really realize there are people who have it worse than you, you kind of thank God, even when we struggle a little bit in baseball.” He is the second Royal ever to receive the honor, along with George Brett as the first recipient from the Royals and Bobby Witt Jr. as the third. Add a sentence here that says:
He was also the first Royals player to win the Roberto Clemente Award, which is given to one player in MLB each year for character and philanthropy.
Still, Perez is not someone who seeks attention for any of it. In fact, he tends to avoid it. “If I’m going to do something, it’s coming from my heart, because I want to do it,” he said. “I don’t have to post that anywhere. I feel happy to do it, and that’s the only thing I care about. If God put it in my heart to do it, I don’t need anybody to take a picture.” That same mindset shows up in the clubhouse, where he encourages teammates to step away from the grind and connect with the community, even during the hardest parts of a long season.
Photo by Janie Jones
“Even when we’re struggling during the season and then you go out and have a great time with kids, do a clinic, talk about baseball, take some pictures, you kind of forget a little bit,” he said. “It’s hard to be 100% focused on baseball every day. 162 games is a long season. But when I struggle, I love to go out and do something for someone else. If you can take one day a month, even two is better. We can make a lot of kids happy.”
That same sense of responsibility follows him back to Venezuela, where he still feels deeply connected despite everything he has accomplished here. Growing up without easy access to equipment shaped how he views giving back. “Where I come from, it is really hard to buy gloves and bats,” he said, “so I just like to help as much as I can.” He knows people are watching, in Kansas City and back home, and he takes that seriously. “If I do things wrong, I let a lot of people down. So I try to carry that with me every day, to make the best decisions I can,” he explains.
The 2015 championship team still is special to him, and moments like the Wild Card walk-off against Oakland that set everything in motion. Names from that team still come up easily, like they never left the clubhouse. Salvador Perez has become one of the most accomplished players of his era, but the way he shows up has stayed the same. Day after day he plays hard, leads his team, gives back to his community, and is still carrying the same belief that brought him here in the first place.
“If I do things wrong, I let a lot of people down. So I try to carry that with me every day, to make the best decisions I can,” he explains.
Photos courtesy of the Kansas City Royals
A New Way to See Your Health
Blacklist Energy
Where vintage charm, craft cocktails, and a hidden door create Leawood’s most intriguing night out
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Tucked quietly into Mission Farms, The Blacklist isn’t the kind of place you stumble into, it’s the kind you’re told about. Maybe with a slight smirk. Maybe with, “Just trust me.” And once you’re in, it all makes sense.
The name alone sets the tone. Owner Jeffrey Gabrielson was drawn to the idea that imperfections make people interesting, their stories richer, their character deeper. That philosophy lives inside every corner of The Blacklist, a space built not to impress in a flashy way, but to pull you in slowly, almost without you realizing it.
At its core, The Blacklist is two concepts layered into one. Gabrielson, who previously owned two distinct wine bars in San Francisco—one Victorian-inspired, the other a moody, film noir-style lounge—had a simple but bold idea: combine them. The result is a duality that feels intentional rather than chaotic. Light meets dark. Open meets hidden. Familiar meets are just slightly unexpected.
That balance is immediate the moment you walk in, or more accurately, once you find your way in. A concealed entrance, complete with a bookshelf door, creates a subtle shift from the outside world to something more intimate. It’s not about exclusivity for the sake of it. It’s about creating a moment. A pause. A transition into a space that feels both private and welcoming at the same time.
“On any given night, The Blacklist can be whatever you need it to be. A quiet corner for a midweek catch-up. A lively pre-dinner stop. A late-night destination with live music and a packed room.”
Inside, the vibe is best summed up in three words: charming, warm, and different. But that simplicity hides a deeper level of intention. Nearly every piece in the space was sourced locally, many pulled from antique shops and hidden gems around Kansas City. The design, led by Fred Goykhman and Emily Boch, leans into a Victorian sensibility, not in a literal, museum-like way, but in how the space feels. Layered. Textured. Lived in.
It’s the kind of place where time softens. Where conversations stretch a little longer. Where you don’t feel rushed out the door after your second drink.
And speaking of drinks, The Blacklist doesn’t cut corners. Co-owner and sommelier Matt “Laramie” Busch approaches the wine list with a clear mission: skip the obvious. Instead of leaning on familiar labels, the focus is on small-production wines that expand people’s palates without intimidating them. It’s about discovery without pretension, something easier said than done, but quietly executed here.
The cocktail program follows the same philosophy. Crafted by mixologist Carlos Avalos, the menu leans spirit-forward, with fresh takes on classic recipes. Housemade syrups, fresh juices, and in-house infusions elevate each drink, while still keeping them approachable. Even gin, often the most polarizing spirit, gets a second chance here.
Signature standouts include the Blacklist Manhattan, a cacao-infused twist on the classic, and the Son of Gabriel, a layered, herbaceous take on a dirty martini that pays tribute to Gabrielson himself.
But what truly sets The Blacklist apart isn’t just what’s in the glass, it’s how the entire experience comes together.
Lighting dims as the night unfolds. Music shifts to match the mood. Drinks can even be served in teacups
and mugs, a nod to Prohibition-era creativity. It’s all subtle, but intentional.
And then there’s the energy.
On any given night, The Blacklist can be whatever you need it to be. A quiet corner for a midweek catch-up. A lively pre-dinner stop. A late-night destination with live music and a packed room.
Guests choose their own experience, sometimes literally depending on which side of the hidden door they land on.
For co-owner Megan Allen, bringing this concept to Leawood was intentional. Too often, unique nightlife experiences feel confined to downtown areas. The Blacklist flips that idea, offering something equally compelling closer to home.
And it doesn’t try to compete, it complements. Guests are encouraged to bring in food from neighboring restaurants, turning the space into part of a larger night out rather than a standalone stop.
Just a few months in, The Blacklist is still evolving, rotating décor, expanding menus, experimenting with new ideas. But that’s part of the charm. It’s not meant to feel finished. It’s meant to feel alive.
Because at the end of the night, The Blacklist isn’t about being seen. It’s about settling in, discovering something new, and maybe, just maybe, leaving with a story worth telling.
AN INTENTIONALLY Crafted Life:
INSIDE THE WORLD OF DR. BEN STONE
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Step inside Dr. Ben Stone’s home and you’ll find more than a surgeon’s precision at work. Tucked within the space is a developing music studio, designed for sound, creativity, and quiet retreat. It reflects a life built with purpose, where medicine, family, and creativity all have a place.
Dr. Stone, a surgeon at KU Medical Center, has never wanted to be defined by a single title. While his work in complex abdominal wall reconstruction demands focus and discipline, he sees identity through a different lens.
“A lot of life can be defined by what you do and not who you are,” he says. “The titles that matter most to me are father, husband, and friend. And how I show up in those roles.”
That perspective was shaped early. During medical school, he considered emergency medicine, weighing the demands of surgery against the life he envisioned with his wife Jessica, whom he met there. Then came a pivotal moment.
A gunshot victim arrived in critical condition, and Dr. Stone watched a trauma team step in. “You see someone in dire need and watch people with varying degrees of experience come together to give that person a second chance,” he recalls. “That was the moment. I knew I wanted to be part of that.”
Surgical training was intense and the long days and high stakes came with a cost, often leaving a longing for other parts of his life to grow. Over time, that realization shaped how Dr. Stone approached both his career and his life outside of it.
Creativity became an essential counterbalance. Raised by a mother with a background in journalism and a father who taught science and served as a pastor, curiosity was a constant in his childhood. It now shows up in a range of ways.
In his home studio, Dr. Stone plays bass, piano, guitar, and drums. Music has long been part of his life, from his father’s gospel group to his own involvement in Kansas City’s creative community. The studio itself is a work in progress, blending sound design with hands-on experimentation.
“It’s an outlet,” he says. “A space where you can step away, recharge, and come back refreshed.”
That balance matters. Medicine carries weight, and Dr. Stone is candid about the importance of stepping outside of it. Engaging different parts of the brain, he believes, helps maintain perspective and resilience.
“Being purposeful about how you live matters,” he says. “When you give yourself space to reset, you can show up better in every area.”
At the center of it all is family. Dr. Stone and his wife are raising four children, including their oldest daughter, whom they adopted from Ethiopia. Each child’s arrival brought its own story, shaping his understanding of responsibility and presence.
“The first moment you hold your child changes everything,” he says. “It shifts your mindset. It’s not about you anymore. They’re counting on you.”
Fatherhood reshaped how Dr. Stone thinks about success. Earlier in life, it may have been tied to career milestones. Today, it centers on something more personal and lasting.
“What success looks like has changed at different phases,” he says. “Fatherhood has shaped that in a lot of ways. Putting yourself in a place where you have options is a measure of success, and being able to have a meaningful say in how you spend your time. You can’t get time back. If you have a say in what and how and when you do it, that is the best measure of success.”
That perspective carries into his community involvement. Dr. Stone has taken on leadership roles with organizations like the American College of Surgeons, the Kansas Medical Society, and the Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Whether shaping healthcare policy or supporting the arts, his focus is on contributing in ways that reflect what matters most to him.
“Start with the right why,” he says. “Be involved in things that are meaningful.”
On weekends, you might find him at home with his family, cooking a big breakfast, working on a project, or planning his next creative endeavor. A Japanese garden is currently in the works, inspired by a sense of calm and thoughtful design.
If you asked his children to describe him, Dr. Stone hopes they would say, “That I’m thoughtful, that I treat people with kindness, and that I’m there for them,” he says. “And maybe that I’m a little goofy, too.”
In a culture that often equates success with constant momentum, Dr. Stone’s perspective offers something worth holding onto. The ability to choose how you spend your time, invest in relationships, and create space for what matters most is built through small, deliberate choices. His story is a reminder that how we define success shapes the life we experience, and that definition is always ours to refine.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When in all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
If your home smells musty, you have excessive water in the walls, basement and masonry. This not only can destroy your house, but cause serious health problems for your family and guests with mold and mildew. This is true of older and even newer homes and buildings.
The RenoDry patented, state-of-the-art technology used in the Damp To Dry system has been safely drying out homes and historic buildings since 2017. It is a non-invasive, environmentally friendly product and the only solution to completely eradicate infiltrating and destructive rising moisture, transforming your building from damp to dry.
“Within a month of initial installation, the courthouse air felt lighter and the musty closed up smell had substantially subsided. In the 2 years the unit has been in place the building continues to have a fresh clean smell.”
– JW. Martin County, MN
A SOLID FOUNDATION:
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
HUSTON CONTRACTING CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
In an industry where longevity is never guaranteed, reaching a 60-year milestone is no small feat. Huston Contracting, Inc. has spent six decades building its story since opening in April 1966. The company’s success reflects resilience, strong family roots, faith and a commitment to putting people first.
What began as a modest asphalt company has steadily evolved alongside the needs of its customers and community. Over time, Huston Contracting expanded into landscaping and, eventually, a wide range of services including roof structures, pergolas, small home additions, pools, and even its first full home build completed this year. Today, the company stands as a diversified construction business with 32 employees, each contributing to a culture that leadership describes simply as “family.”
That sense of unity has taken shape over time, influenced by both challenging seasons and moments of steady growth.
“For me, a defining moment came in 2010,” said Douglas Huston. “My dad and I were told in a meeting at the bank that they would not be renewing our long-standing loan. We were also told that, in their opinion, we weren’t going to make it. That changed everything for me.”
For Doug Huston Sr., however, the company’s journey cannot be reduced to a single turning point. “There was never just one moment,” he said. “It was, and still is, the moment you realize that someone greater than you is in control. God had another plan for our business that differed from the bank’s opinion of our trajectory.”
Over the years, Huston Contracting has weathered more than its share of external challenges. From the oil embargo of the 1970s and soaring 21% interest rates to the Great Recession of 2008 and the uncertainty of COVID-19, each era forced the company to adapt.
“All of those were historical events that defined the way we operated and saw business going forward,” said Huston Sr. Through it all, the company has remained grounded in a set of core values that have not wavered with time. “Integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness,” Huston Sr. emphasized. “We’re a company that values our people and the work they do day in and day out. They wear our name with pride, and that is something you cannot find, or teach, just anywhere.”
That emphasis on people extends beyond employees to customers as well. Unlike larger corporate competitors, Huston Contracting prides itself on a personalized approach.
“Our family-owned business offers a personalization factor that values relationships with our customers,” said Huston Jr. “In the end, that allows visibility in a community to partner together.”
“Personalizing the experience from the start is something not all companies can offer,” added Huston Sr. “We can pivot and change direction as needed to provide that individualized experience for every customer.”
The company’s “stronger together” mindset became especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. As uncertainty reshaped workplaces everywhere, Huston Contracting focused on maintaining stability for its team.
“It caused us to lean on one another and trust even when the future was unclear,” Huston Sr. said. “We wanted to continue to serve and support our ‘family’ of workers by maintaining consistency as best as we could.”
Now, with a team of 32 employees, Huston reflects on the company’s growth with a sense of gratitude. “The quality and commitment of our people is the best it’s ever been,” he said. “What more can you ask for?”
Looking ahead, both generations of leadership are focused on legacy, not just in terms of business success, but in the values they hope to pass on.
“We want our grandchildren to possess a mindset of stewardship,” Huston Sr. shared. “To serve people with a heart of gratitude. This company is built on honest and biblical integrity to bring glory to God.”
Huston Contracting continues to move forward with purpose. The company has grown and adapted while staying grounded in what matters most. Its foundation is built on strong relationships and guided by clear values, with family at the center of it all. That steady approach reflects years of thoughtful work and care. Sixty years in, the work still carries the same pride, and the story is far from finished.
DATING THROUGH THE ALPHABET
ARTICLE BY DARA WITTE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Three local restaurants, one letter at a time, chosen for their atmosphere, cuisine, and ability to turn a simple night out into something memorable.
NOVEL - EAST CROSSROADS
1927 McGee Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
https://www.novelkc.com/
Summary: A chef-driven neighborhood restaurant offering seasonal American cuisine with creative twists, thoughtful presentation, and an ever-evolving menu centered on fresh ingredients.
The Mood: Modern, intimate, and understated, with a relaxed dining room that lets the food and conversation take center stage. The experience feels refined without being overly formal.
Best For: Date nights, foodie experiences, and dinners with friends who enjoy trying something new and seasonal.
Favorite Things:
Favorite Dish: Agnolotti- braised duck, foie gras, picked cherry, port reduction
Favorite Drink:Bartender’s choice to pair seasonal counterbalances with your meal.
Fun Fact: You will never experience the same menu from season to season! Visits require openness to new things and trust that the season will shine on your plate each time!
Osteria il Centro
OSTERIA IL CENTRO - SOUTH PLAZA
5101 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64112
https://www.osteriailcentro.com/
Summary: A longtime Kansas City Italian favorite known for handmade pastas, exceptional wine, and a neighborhood bistro atmosphere that feels both upscale and comfortable.
The Mood: Warm and inviting, with the kind of relaxed energy that encourages lingering over wine and conversation. The atmosphere feels timeless and effortlessly romantic.
Best For: Date nights, celebratory dinners, and evenings centered around great wine and conversation.
Favorite Things:
Favorite Dish: Eggplant Parmesan- Breaded eggplant sautéed and topped with Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese with fettuccini marinara (It tastes just like my grandmother’s recipe!)
Favorite Drink: A reserve Italian wine from the award-winning wine list.
Fun Fact: Osteria Il Centro has earned Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Excellence” for decades and offers more than 1,000 wines. If you love Italian, it’s a MUST!
MERCURY ROOM - CROSSROADS
1800 Walnut Street, 14th Floor, Kansas City, MO 64108 https://themercuryroom.com/
Summary: An elevated rooftop cocktail lounge known for panoramic city views, imaginative cocktails, and an experience that feels both glamorous and intimate.
The Mood: Moody, sophisticated, and transportive, with floor-to-ceiling skyline views, mirrored interiors, and thousands of twinkling ceiling lights that create a dreamy, star-like atmosphere.
Best For: Special-occasion date nights, celebratory cocktails, and evenings that call for dressing up and lingering over drinks.
Favorite Things: Favorite Drink: Lux Perpetua V8- Yellowstone single barrel bourbon, Elvelo cask strength anejo tequilla, Mancino Kopi, hazelnut, manuka honey- it’s worth the $47 price tag!
Fun Fact: The Mercury Room sits atop the REVERB building on the 14th floor and was designed to feel like guests are floating above the city under a glowing night sky.
Mercury Room
CUSTOM HOMES. LUXURY LIVING.
Family Owned Since 1957
Our family has been proudly building homes for more than 60 years. Three generations of Koehler’s have served the KC community with quality construction and outstanding design. We specialize in new custom homes using our award-winning plans, tailored to fit your lifestyle—or built entirely from your vision. Together, we’ll create your dream home—one that reflects your style, offers comfort and security, and makes you smile every time you pull in the driveway. With over 1,000 custom homes of experience, let our team build a house you’ll love to call home.
ASK THE EXPERT
MANY PEOPLE ASSUME THEY ARE FULLY COVERED UNTIL SOMETHING GOES WRONG. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON GAPS IN COVERAGE YOU SEE, EVEN AMONG WELL-INFORMED CLIENTS?
The most common gaps I see are in both auto and home insurance policies. On the auto side, many households are underinsured from a liability standpoint. Too many people carry limits that are barely above the state minimums, which can leave them exposed to major lawsuits after an accident. Increasing liability limits to a more appropriate level is usually much more affordable than people realize, especially when compared to the financial risk of being underinsured.
For homeowners insurance, many people unknowingly have Actual Cash Value coverage instead of Full Replacement Cost coverage. The difference in claim payouts can be substantial. I also recommend homeowners add service line coverage and sewer/drain backup endorsements, as these are among the most commonly used coverages in the Kansas City metro area.
HOW HAS THE INSURANCE LANDSCAPE CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS IN WAYS CONSUMERS MAY NOT HAVE NOTICED?
The auto insurance industry has changed significantly, particularly with the rise in uninsured motorists over the last 5–7 years. As more drivers go uninsured, rates increase because insured drivers are more likely to rely on their own policies after an accident caused by someone without coverage. This makes it especially important for consumers to carry strong uninsured and underinsured motorist limits.
WHAT ARE SOME LESSER-KNOWN FACTORS THAT CAN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT PREMIUMS OR ELIGIBILITY?
Claims frequency is a major factor. Insurance carriers have become much stricter with underwriting guidelines for both home and auto policies. On homeowners policies, having more than two claims within five years can make households ineligible with many carriers. For auto insurance, drivers with two or more at-fault accidents within three years may struggle to qualify for preferred coverage options.
WHEN REVIEWING A POLICY, WHAT DETAILS DO PEOPLE TEND TO OVERLOOK?
Deductibles and liability limits are often overlooked. Many consumers focus only on price and choose the cheapest option available, which usually means higher deductibles and lower coverage limits. Insurance should be viewed as financial protection, not simply an expense. I like to review quotes with clients so they understand the differences in coverage and the potential financial impact of choosing one option over another.
HOW DO LIFE CHANGES AFFECT COVERAGE NEEDS IN WAYS PEOPLE MAY NOT EXPECT?
Insurance needs constantly evolve, which is why maintaining a good relationship with your agent is important. One of the biggest areas families overlook is life insurance. Major milestones like buying a home or having children should prompt couples to review their coverage and make sure they have enough protection in place to maintain financial stability if one income provider is no longer there.
Darian Lame
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
WHAT DOES TAKING A STRATEGIC APPROACH TO INSURANCE LOOK LIKE IN PRACTICE?
The best approach is scheduling an annual policy review with your agent. These reviews help uncover new insurance needs, identify necessary adjustments, and ensure clients fully understand their coverage. It also gives clients an opportunity to ask questions and make sure they are properly protected as their lives change.
WHAT
IS
SOMETHING
HOMEOWNERS SHOULD WATCH OUT FOR IN THEIR HOMEOWNER’S POLICIES?
Homeowners should be familiar with both their roof coverage and their deductibles. Over the last 4–5 years, many major insurance carriers have changed how roofs are covered on homeowners policies. Coverage can vary depending on the age of the roof, so it’s important to know whether your policy provides Actual Cash Value coverage or Full Replacement Cost coverage, as the payout difference can be significant after a claim. Homeowners should also pay close attention to their wind and hail deductibles. Many carriers have increased minimum deductible requirements in the Midwest, which can leave homeowners with larger out-ofpocket costs than expected if they are not aware of their policy details.
913-586-0020
Nice? Is Whiskey On Ice
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
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