Dear Leawood Residents, Spring is a season of renewal, and, here in Leawood, that spirit is alive in the people, businesses, and public spaces that make our community truly special. As warmer days return, so do opportunities to explore our award-winning parks, support local businesses, and participate in exciting programs and initiatives that continue to shape our city’s future.
In February, I delivered my State of the City address, reflecting on a year of progress and sharing a vision of what lies ahead. With Leawood’s first-ever strategic plan, we are taking bold steps to ensure our community remains a model of excellence. At the same time, updates to our Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Development Ordinance will help guide thoughtful growth while preserving the character that makes Leawood unique.
This issue of Leawood Magazine highlights the innovation, wellness, and recreation that define our city. From small business success stories to profiles of cutting-edge health and wellness services, you’ll find inspiring features on the people and places contributing to Leawood’s vibrancy. Our Parks, Recreation & Arts programs continue to thrive, with exciting improvements at Tomahawk Park and soon along Tomahawk Creek Parkway that will enhance outdoor experiences for all ages. And as the Kansas City region gears up for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, Leawood is preparing to showcase itself as a premier destination for visitors and residents alike.
I encourage you to take full advantage of all our city has to offer this season— whether it’s discovering a new fitness studio, supporting local businesses, or simply enjoying a day in one of our beautiful parks. Thank you for your continued engagement in making Leawood a truly outstanding place to call home.
Sincerely,
Mayor Marc Elkins Mayor, City of Leawood
Hello, Leawood Residents and Business Partners,
It’s finally spring! After what felt like an unending winter of cold and snow (don’t we say this every year?), it’s so lovely to see the greenery come back to life with these warmer temperatures.
For many of us, spring is also a great time to get outside and renew those fitness and health resolutions we made at the start of the year, and Leawood offers plenty of ways to do just that. Perhaps it’s a long walk in one of our incredible local parks, a new strength-training routine, or a bit of self-care in the form of a facial treatment —we have it all. Or maybe you’re like I was last year and a little too ambitious in your activities, making a visit to Sano Speciality Care a priority. Either way, we hope you enjoy reading about some of the options in this issue and that it inspires you!
Spring at the Chamber and EDC is also a busy time as we continue to welcome new members, celebrate our longstanding businesses, and prepare for our largest events of the year (mark your calendars now for Taste of Leawood on September 13). As always, we love showcasing the people and places that make our community special—and that includes each of you!
Best,
Stephanie Meyer President & CEO, Leawood Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council
Dr. Kathy Gaumer serves as medical director for Regain Functional Medicine + Aesthetics. Photo by Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio
Everyone has a story. What will be yours? Visit Story Boutique for your next unique find. • Designer, vintage and gently pre-loved clothing • Fine jewelry and statement fashion pieces Shop for a cause!
Each purchase, donation and volunteer hour makes a difference in our community.
Learn more at StoryB.org Visit our sister store for home decor items! 12904 State
Boutique Hours Monday from 11 am to 4 pm Tuesday – Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm Sunday Closed
Ranch Mart Shopping Center 95th Street & Mission Road 913.642.2292 | Storyb@KCHospice.org
@StoryKCH @storyb4kch
Tuesdays from 12 to 8 pm
Thursdays from 12 to 4 pm
Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm
8 The Goal? Feel Better!
Dr. Kathy Gaumer and her team at Regain Functional Medicine help patients rediscover health and vitality.
16 Uniting Small Businesses
Chamber offers value-added programs to help local small-business owners.
20 Growing Sano Speciality Care
Expanding to five locations, the practice now includes more than 50 providers.
24 Spring into Fun
Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts has a full season of activities planned.
28 A Personalized Approach to Fitness
Nick Bolton—the other Nick Bolton— has spent years building his fitness brand and team.
32 Healthy Perspiration
Perspire Sauna Studio provides infrared saunas, red light therapy, color therapy, and more.
36 A Fresh Approach to Aging
4Ever Young Leawood helps turn back the clock with a med-spa approach.
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The Goal? Feel Better!
Dr. Kathy Gaumer and her team at Regain Functional Medicine help patients rediscover health and vitality.
By Jackie Hostetler
At her Leawood practice, Dr. Kathy Gaumer has created a comprehensive wellness destination where patients come to feel better, function better, and look better. Drawing on her 30 years of experience as an OB/GYN, Gaumer established Regain Functional Medicine + Aesthetics, combining hormone therapy with aesthetic treatments to help patients reclaim their vitality and confidence.
From Babies to Wellness
Dr. Gaumer’s journey began at the University of Kansas, where she studied cellular biology before attending KU School of Medicine. After completing her OB/GYN residency at Wesley
Photos by Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio
Savanna (LE) is a medically trained aesthetician and is one of few aestheticians to be selected as an ambassador for SkinCeuticals.
Medical Center in Wichita, she established a private practice in Lawrence, where she practiced for 16 years before working as an OB/GYN hospitalist at Shawnee Mission Medical Center for another 13 years.
Throughout her career as an OB/GYN, Gaumer noticed traditional hormone replacement therapies weren’t yielding optimal results for her female patients. This observation, coupled with a personal interest in health and beauty, led her to explore bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
“Standard pharmaceutical hormones just weren’t getting the result that I really wanted for our female patients,” Gaumer says. “I started doing more research into what other options were available for hormone replacement therapy.”
For Both Women and Men
What began as a small aesthetic offering within her OB practice evolved when she partnered with Tony and Lori
Fields in 2015 to form what would become Regain Functional Medicine and Aesthetics. Starting in Lawrence, the practice expanded to Leawood in 2018, where it continues to grow.
While Gaumer initially focused exclusively on women’s health, her practice now serves a patient base that’s composed of approximately 60% women and 40% men. This evolution happened organically as female patients began referring their male partners.
“Often, a woman comes into the office, and she’s going through the menopause transition or not feeling well,” Gaumer says. “We usually are able to get her feeling much better pretty quickly, and then she goes home, grabs her husband, and says, ‘Hey, you need to get in there because you need this as much as I do.’”
As an OB/GYN who has spent decades serving women, Gaumer finds this expansion into men’s health both intentional and fulfilling.
Dr. Kathy Gaumer (MD, FACOG) is Regain’s medical director.
Savanna specializes in treatments such as microneedling, laser rejuvenation, and skin cancer concerns.
“I never want to be very far from women’s health and women’s health services, and I always want to be an advocate for women’s health needs. But at the same time, when you’re helping the woman, you need to help the male partner as well because that intimate relationship is so important.” Gaumer says.
Reconnecting Couples
One of the most rewarding aspects of Gaumer’s work is seeing how improved hormonal health can transform relationships.
“Our happiest patients are couples who are receiving treatments and services together,” she says. “They come back and say, ‘We were even considering separating or divorce, and now we both feel so much better. We’ve regained our connection and our intimacy.’”
For More
Regain Functional Medicine + Aesthetics
11100 Ash St., Suite 210 Leawood, KS 66211 913-291-8555 www.ifeelmuchbetter.com
Second Location
1201 Wakarusa Drive, Suite B3 Lawrence, KS 66049
Rekindling relationships is just one aspect of her work in which Gaumer recognizes physical wellness and psychological well-being are interconnected.
“I don’t think you can really have one without the other. As human beings, we are fully connected,” she says. “People come in tired, depressed, they don’t feel well, maybe they’ve gained weight, they don’t feel comfortable in their own skin. Then all of a sudden, you see them a few months later, and they walk in with a little bit more confidence.”
Laura (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C) specializes in HRT/TRT, weight loss, hair restoration, intimate male and female treatments, and she is also the lead functional provider for the practice.
Laura provides a GetHairMD (hair restoration) consult.
Uniting BusinessesSmall
Chamber offers value-added programs to help local small-business owners.
By Beth Kornegay Photos courtesy of Leawood Chamber of Commerce
After analyzing data about local businesses associated with the Leawood Chamber of Commerce, the chamber discovered an important statistic: More than 50% of its member businesses qualified as small businesses, defined as businesses with 25 or fewer employees. To help understand the unique challenges and opportunities that small businesses face, in May 2024, the chamber developed a series of programs and events called Small Business Series, tailored to meet the needs of local small businesses.
Taylor Limoges, vice president of programming and communications for the chamber, says before the program was launched, a survey was distributed to small business members to ensure the planned programming would align with the owners’ interests and schedules. The primary goal of the series is to create a space where small business owners and representatives can gain valuable education, insights, and mentorship.
The series offers a variety of engagement opportunities, including workshops, networking events, roundtables, and keynote speakers, all scheduled at different times to accommodate diverse schedules. Participation is open to any chamber member business that meets the small business criteria, with events hosted monthly. It’s an ongoing program that members can attend as often as they like, depending on their interests and schedule availability.
“Through this initiative, we aim to cultivate a strong network where small businesses can connect, collaborate, and support one another. We want our members to feel confident knowing they have a community of peers to turn to for guidance and shared experiences,” Limoges says.
In its first year, the chamber has already gathered valuable insights that will help shape
future programming for the Small Business Series. Moving forward, the chamber aims to enhance the series by offering more structured content, effective speakers, and information focused on addressing the most pressing needs of its small business members. Feedback is gathered to improve the program, ensuring it remains meaningful to its members.
“Whether you’re looking to gain new insights, meet like-minded professionals, ask questions, or share your own expertise, this series offers a welcoming and resourceful environment. Attending these events not only provides brand exposure but also allows members to give back to the business community,” says Limoges.
Kaela and Jonathan Braswell own Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio, which is celebrating 125 years since its opening in 1900. The studio has been in Jonathan Braswell’s family since 1977, making the couple the sixth owners. With more than 25 years each in the photography industry, they focus on developing longterm relationships with their clients and view themselves as capturing family histories through portrait art. Additionally, they take high school senior photos and business branding portraits.
I wanted to connect with other small business owners who understand both the challenges and victories of entrepreneurship. This program provides resources that make a real impact and helps us compete in a world dominated by larger companies.
—DANICA LEPORTE
The Braswells are now in their second year as part of the Small Business Series and joined because they see their challenges as different from larger businesses with a larger employee base that service a nationwide or even international clientele.
For More
Leawood Chamber of Commerce 13451 Briar St., Suite 201 Leawood, KS 66209 913-498-1514 www.leawoodchamber.org
“We have to be able to handle all of it so being able to sit down with other like-minded individuals in our local area helps us to build our own network of people that we can refer or give our own business to so that we can keep the money in the local economy. It’s all about who you know,” says Kaela Braswell.
One of the workshops she attended last year was hosted by ClearBox Insights and provided insights into defining a business’s ideal audience. Given the abundance of information on social media and various marketing channels, the workshop concentrated on the essential aspect of identifying a target client and effectively attracting them, especially considering the competition from numerous other companies seeking consumer attention.
Braswell appreciates the focus the Leawood Chamber of Commerce has put into promoting small businesses and helping them succeed by providing informational topics of interest and notes that every small business owner wears many hats. She says that person is
also the marketing department, the accounting department, CEO, COO, and janitor.
Another small business owner taking advantage of this program is Danica Leporte, the owner of Under the Stars KC. Her company specializes in luxury slumber parties and outdoor event experiences, helping families create magical, memorable nights at home. Serving the metropolitan area since 2022, Under the Stars KC offers movie nights under the stars, poolside teepee cabanas, elegant pop-up igloos for bug-free picnics, and luxurious glamping tents for stylish backyard retreats.
Leporte says being part of the Small Business Series has helped her learn some practical strategies to help refine and scale her business.
“I wanted to connect with other small business owners who understand both the challenges and victories of entrepreneurship. This program provides resources that make a real impact and helps us compete in a world dominated by larger companies,” she says.
Leawood local business Insperity was eager to support the Small Business Series and joined as a presenting sponsor. A full-service professional employer organization, Insperity works closely with small businesses to enhance their growth and success.
The summer luncheon for participants of the Chamber’s Small Business Series featured keynote speaker Jeff Randolph from EAG Advertising & Marketing.
The Evolution of Sano Specialty Care
2016 Dr. Matt Daggett, with Joe Whetstone, opens Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Lee’s Summit.
2017 Two more physicians, Dr. Kevin Witte and Dr. Tim Roberts, join the team, along with support staff.
2018 Sano expands into Kansas and opens a clinic at St. Luke’s in Overland Park.
2019 The practice rebrands as Sano Orthopedics, adding spine surgeon Dr. Stephanie de Vere.
2020 The practice moves out of the Lee’s Summit Medical Center and moves into its own state-of-the-art facility, also in Lee’s Summit.
2021 Two additional surgeons, Dr. Matt Cullen and Dr. Alex Palmer, join the practice in the summer. In November, Mid-America Orthopedics of Kansas City joins the team, doubling the doubling the practice. New physicians include Dr. Mike Dempewolf, Dr. Chris Eckland and Dr. Jeff Colyer. The same year, they move out of St. Luke’s and into MAO’s Leawood facility.
2022 The team grows with additional advanced practice providers and support staff.
2023 The practice adds more physicians and becomes multispeciality, adding vascular surgeon Dr. Richard Coats in October and other physicians through the year. The pain management specialty begins. Then, they move out of the Leawood location and into the Overland Park location, which has a physical therapy rehab component and an ambulatory surgery center.
2024 Sano adds more physicians, adding general surgery, bariatric surgery, trauma care, and wound care to the practice.
the entire organization, all of the departments, (both) clinical and nonclinical, [who] are able to have a say in how we guide that patient experience,” he says.
They are also engaged with the community, holding events like an annual blood drive with the American Red Cross, and many more. Their goal is to be proactive rather than reactive, offering programs in prevention and wellness. Regarding the practice’s next steps, Whetstone says they regularly explore new opportunities, including technological innovation.
Whetstone credits the team with the success of Sano. “We have an amazing group of people who believe in what we’re doing.”
From a marketing perspective, word of mouth has been crucial to Sano’s success.
“We’re not just trying to be another business with brick and mortar,” Whetstone says. “We want to be actively engaged and partnered with our communities, plural, so having a presence out there, knowing that our approach is a little bit different … we don’t just want to be another name. We want to be the name out there. And it’s been great to be engaged in the Leawood and Overland Park communities.”
Where can you find Sano Specialty Care?
Lee’s Summit
2861 Northeast Independence Ave., Suite 201
Overland Park
11340 Nall Ave., Suite 200A
Parkville
6301 North Lucerne Ave. Kansas City, MO 64151
Paola
505 South Hospital Drive
Raymore
121 North Dean Ave., Suite 101
Fresh Finds Await
Apparel / Accessories / Shoes
Alysa Rene Boutique
Bella Bridesmaids
Clair de Lune
Panache Chocolatier
Plate
RA Sushi
Session Taco
Verdigris
Entertainment
Barkley Square
Breakout KC
Home / Flowers
Engel & Völkers
Flowers by Emily
Maison de Marnie
Pink Antlers
Restaurants / Food Specialty
801 Chophouse
Aixois Bistro
Aqua Penny’s
Bamboo Penny’s
Bru ú Café
Ice Cream Bae
Mother Clucker!
Outta the Blue
Creative Culture
Health / Beauty
Everyday Beaut
KMC MedSpa
MassageLuXe
Mon Cheri Nail Salon
Perspire Sauna Studio
The Bar Method
The Gents Place
The Smile Line Studio
Timothy Weber: A Hair Salon
Upgrade Group Training
Hotel
Aloft LeawoodOverland Park
By Jill Dutton Photos
of Leawood
Spring into Fun
Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts has a full season of activities planned.
courtesy City
Programs at Prairie Oak Nature Center
The Prairie Oak Nature Center is a trove of hands-on learning opportunities for nature lovers of all ages. Spring programs include guided nature hikes, birdwatching workshops, and wildlife-themed educational events. Families can explore the beauty of Leawood’s natural surroundings while learning about local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.
DON’T MISS
Earth Day at the Prairie Oak Nature Center | Friday, April 25
Get a free tree seedling, enjoy earthy crafts, and celebrate Earth Day! Stop by between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for this free, all-ages event. No registration required.
Leawood Aquatic Center
As temperatures rise, the Leawood Aquatic Center will open for family fun and aquatic adventures. With water slides, lap lanes, and a zero-depth entry pool, the center is perfect for cooling off during hot days. Swim lessons and water fitness classes will also be offered to help residents make a splash this season.
DON’T MISS
Opening Day | Saturday, May 24
Youth and Adult Classes
Leawood offers an impressive range of youth and adult classes designed to foster creativity, learning, and skillbuilding. Youngsters can dive into creativity with various programs, and adults can explore fitness classes, arts workshops, and educational sessions tailored to their interests.
Beth Breitenstein, strategic communications director for the City of Leawood, shared her excitement about the department’s offerings:
“This spring and summer, Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts is bringing an exciting lineup of activities for all ages, from hands-on nature programs to innovative S.T.E.A.M. workshops. Kids can dive into creativity and learn with our Snapology S.T.E.A.M. programs, featuring LEGO robotics, Minecraft building, and Pokémon-themed engineering.
“And just in time for summer fun, a brand-new Tomahawk playground is opening. Whether it’s science, sports, or outdoor exploration, Leawood has something for everyone to make this season unforgettable.”
Having fun at nature camp at Prairie Oak Nature Center.
Lifeguards are ready for action at the Leawood Aquatic Center.
Outdoor Recreation and Fitness
Leawood’s emphasis on outdoor recreation continues with programs that cater to all fitness levels. The city is introducing a new all-ages walking club to encourage residents to stay active while enjoying the beauty of local trails. Pickleball’s rising popularity makes Leawood’s workshops for beginning and intermediate players a must-try for anyone curious about the sport or looking to sharpen their skills.
Looking Ahead
Special Events and Arts Programs
Leawood’s dedication to the arts shines through its robust lineup of events and programs. This spring, residents can enjoy art exhibits, performances, and workshops that showcase local talent. Seasonal festivals and community events will also bring people together to celebrate the vibrancy of Leawood.
DON’T MISS
Leawood’s 4th of July Celebration in the Park | Friday, July 4
Celebrate the 4th at City Park. Enjoy fun and free summer activities for the whole family, and, of course, fireworks! Check leawood.org for more details as the event draws closer.
For More
Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts Main office: 4800 Town Center Drive, 1st Floor – West Leawood, KS 66211 913-663-9151 (main) 913-663-9154 (registration) www.leawood.org/204/ Parks-Recreation-Arts
Prairie Oak Nature Center 14701 Mission Road 913-696-7770
Tomahawk Park 3951 W. 119th St.
Leawood is gearing up for a summer of unforgettable experiences, with new offerings and improvements to its parks and facilities. One of the most anticipated additions is the opening of the brand-new Tomahawk playground, which promises to be a hit with kids and families.
Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, learn a new skill, or simply have fun, Leawood’s Parks, Recreation & Arts department has you covered. From the Prairie Oak Nature Center’s educational programs to the innovative Snapology S.T.E.A.M. workshops and the exciting new playground, this season is packed with opportunities to create lasting memories.
Grab your calendar and start planning your spring and summer adventures in Leawood. With activities for all ages and interests, there’s no better time to discover everything this community has to offer.
Who’s ready for spring soccer?
The Fourth of July Celebration offers plenty of summer fun for the whole family.
Practice your “boot scootin’ boogie” during one of the musical events put on by the Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts department.
leawood
Another client, former Kansas lieutenant governor Gary Sherrer, says he signed up with Bolton after some encouragement from his daughter.
“I’m 84 years old, play tennis three days a week, and walk five miles two or three days a week,” Sherrer says, “and it’s in part because I’ve been seeing Nick. I have flexibility and strength. I have so much confidence that he knows what he’s doing and have had a great experience.”
A Unique, Hybrid Facility
Nick Bolton Fitness is a training facility and a 24-hour gym complete with state-of-the-art equipment. In addition to weight equipment, cardio machines, and the like, the gym offers an infrared sauna, cold plunge therapy, and a mild hyperbaric oxygen chamber, all geared toward slowing the aging process and boosting immune systems.
“I like for my tool shop to have all my tools,” Bolton says. Pricing varies, depending on the type of instruction— one-on-one or small-group—and the client’s desired level of training. Memberships for the 24-hour gym run $55 per month, and there are no contracts.
Perhaps someday, maybe even the other Nick Bolton will pop in for a workout. Bolton says he’s reached out to the Kansas City linebacker to ask if he’d like to come in, sign some autographs, or even get in a good workout, but so far he hasn’t heard back.
“The con (of sharing a name with a famous football player) is, if you Google ‘Nick Bolton,’ his name comes up at the top of the front page,” Bolton says. “But the name recognition is great. I’m enjoying it. It’s all fun.
“I have confidence in my team. We’ve all been doing this for a long time. And we love doing it.”
Another Shot at Strong
Leawood residents will have an added opportunity to get fit this spring. Discover Strength, a personalized strength training company based in Minnesota, is set to open its first location in the Kansas City area in late May, according to franchise owner Ben Gervais, who operates the facility at 4957 West 135th St. with his wife, Brady.
“It’s a passion of ours,” Gervais says. “We wanted a market where we could get highly engaged in the community. Leawood stuck out for the friendliness of its business community. Everybody is very engaged and supportive.”
Discover Strength is unique in that it focuses strictly on strength training. Gervais says there isn’t a single machine in the 2,100-square-foot space that plugs in. There are no treadmills or ellipticals; all the equipment is medical-grade strength equipment.
Discover Strength practices what Gervais calls the “Three Es.” The first “E” is efficient—clients work out only twice a week and 30 minutes at a time. The second “E”
BY Bob Luder PHOTO COURTESY Discover Strength
is evidence-based—the facility’s exercise physiologists follow scientific evidence and proven, peer-reviewed training techniques to maximize effectiveness and results. The third “E” is educated experts—Discover Strength hires only those with four-year degrees in exercise science, with focused study in exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, and nutrition.
“We want to provide workouts that don’t get boring,” Gervais says. “Each workout is individualized.”
Workouts are by appointment only, with no enrollment, membership, or termination fees. Clients prepurchase sessions and, when they train, their accounts are debited. Gervais says the facility will be open 5:30 a.m.–7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
“We just want to help as many people as we can,” he says. “We’re chomping at the bit to get open and get going.”
To learn more and sign up for a free introductory session, visit www.discoverstrength.com/leawoodks.
Mitchell Maupin of Overland Park works his arms at Nick Bolton Fitness; Taylor Gutschenritter of Leawood concentrates as she works with a weight machine.
Nick Bolton keeps a close watch on Scott Borman through a series of workouts.
which heat your body directly. They operate at a lower temperature than traditional saunas, typically between 120 degrees F and 170 F.
Roberta Curtin began working at Perspire Sauna Studio last August. Passionate about her health, she was excited to join this new business.
“What I love about working at Perspire is the feeling I have being there,” she says. “It’s a spa-like atmosphere that makes me feel relaxed and stress-free as soon as I walk through the door.” Her role comes with a bonus: unlimited access to the sauna, where she can recharge and relax. Since using the infrared sauna, Curtin has noticed fewer aches, less joint pain, and an overall boost to her immune system. The red light therapy has improved her acne scarring.
“When I come out of the sauna and leave Perspire, I feel amazing every time,” she says. “It’s essentially the same feeling you get once you’ve completed a strenuous workout. Endorphins are flowing, you’re less stressed and your muscles are relaxed.”
GREAT LOCATION
Bhakta was thrilled to open her business in Leawood’s Park Place. It had long been a destination for date nights, anniversaries, or casual dinners. Since opening Perspire, she’s been welcomed warmly by other Park Place business owners.
“I’m so incredibly grateful for other women entrepreneurs in Park Place who reminded me that they are cheering me on, or they provided partnership ideas or community event ideas,” Bhakta says. “Owners of The Bar Method, Alysa Rene Boutique, Maison de Marnie, Panache, Bamboo Penny’s, the team at Everyday Beaut and Upgrade— all have been amazing business supporters. We also received support from Aixois, 801 Chophouse, Outta the Blue, and Lalli’s Boutique during our opening weekend by contributing to our swag bags.”
Even for someone committed to healthful living, it’s all too easy to burn the candle at both ends. On her entrepreneurial journey, Bhakta has discovered it’s essential to have a support system and ask questions.
“I’ve learned I can only solve one problem at a time and to prioritize when the to-do list feels so long. I’ve learned to leverage my family. I couldn’t have done any of this if my husband wasn’t home doing homework with the kids, taking them to soccer, and making them dinner. He has been an incredible supporter,” she says.
Bhakta’s hard work is paying off because clients such as Juracek have enjoyed a transformative health experience.
“I’m sincerely grateful for Leena and her team for their exceptional service and support,” Juracek says. “The sauna has had a positive impact on my health and overall well-being. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking both physical and mental rejuvenation.”
Customizing the sauna experience for each of their clients is integral to Perspire.
“We love personalizing each suite for our members based on their individual wellness goals,” Bhakta says. “That means we set temperatures and color light preferences to help our members achieve their goals, whether it’s detoxing, relaxation, or pain relief. We can talk sauna all day, so let us help you create a space—just for you.”
BY THE NUMBERS
• 40 minutes: length of each session
• $20: price of an introductory session
• 9: number of private suites
• 120 degrees F to 170 F: typical temperature of an infrared sauna
BENEFITS OF AN INFRARED SAUNA
• Relaxation
• Detoxing your body
• Burning calories
• Boosting your immunity
• Improving sleep
• Helping treat long-term illnesses, including high blood pressure
• Rejuvenating skin
A FRESH APPROACH TO AGING
4Ever Young Leawood helps turn back the clock with a med-spa approach.
By Corinn Guemmer
Photos by Molly Kuplen
Barry Kentopp owns 4Ever Young Leawood at Town Center Plaza.
Skin Care at Top of the List
One of the primary reasons clients visit 4Ever Young Leawood is to rejuvenate their skin and enhance their natural beauty. The clinic offers a wide range of noninvasive and minimally invasive aesthetic treatments, designed to smooth wrinkles, restore lost volume, and improve skin texture. Popular services include Botox and Dysport, which help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and dermal fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane, which restore facial volume and provide subtle, naturallooking enhancements.
For those struggling with uneven skin tone, acne scars, or dullness, treatments like microneedling and chemical peels offer long-term improvements in skin texture and clarity. Hydrafacials have also gained popularity among clients seeking deep hydration and exfoliation while enjoying a relaxing, spalike experience.
According to Jordan Knox, a staff member at 4Ever Young Leawood, the Hydrafacial is one of the most popular treatments.
“It’s not only hydrating and exfoliating but also incredibly relaxing,” she says. “Clients love how refreshed and smooth their skin feels afterward.”
Other treatments address concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and double chin reduction, ensuring that clients have access to the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine.
A Look at Inner Wellness
While looking great can boost confidence, true wellness starts from within. 4Ever Young integrates medical science with personalized care to address age-related changes, hormone imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies that affect energy levels,
metabolism, and overall well-being. Many of the symptoms that people attribute to “just getting older” such as low energy, brain fog, decreased libido, and stubborn weight gain, are often linked to hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.
“Hormones play a critical role in how we age,” Kentopp says, so bloodwork and diagnostic testing are key components of the clinic’s approach. By analyzing hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic markers, the team creates targeted treatment plans that support long-term vitality.
Many clients at 4Ever Young opt for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, which can help restore energy levels, improve mental clarity, and support overall wellness. The clinic also offers testosterone replacement therapy for men experiencing low energy and decreased muscle mass, as well as medically assisted weight loss plans that help clients shed stubborn pounds safely and effectively. Intravenous vitamin therapy, an increasingly popular service, provides essential nutrients that are quickly absorbed by the body to boost immunity, hydration, and overall well-being.
“We see so many people who come in thinking they just have to live with feeling tired all the time,” Kentopp says. “But once we identify the root cause, we can help them get back to feeling like themselves again.”
Top Clinicians
Dr. Abdon Borges, the medical director of 4Ever Young Leawood, leads the clinic’s commitment to science-backed wellness and aesthetics. With a strong background in internal medicine, geriatric care, and anti-aging medicine, Dr. Borges originally hails from Florida. He earned his medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and trained at the Royal London Hospital Medical College and the University of Miami.
With more than two decades in private practice, Dr. Borges has dedicated his career to preventive care and holistic medicine. As a member of the American Association of AntiAging Medicine, he is passionate about research in healthspan optimization, longevity, and wellness. His philosophy revolves around lifestyle modification over pharmacologic intervention, emphasizing nutrition, exercise, and sciencebased wellness solutions.
While 4Ever Young Leawood is still new to the area, Kentopp is excited about the future. He and his team are committed to expanding their offerings and ensuring more people benefit from science-backed anti-aging treatments.
“Our vision is to help people,” Kentopp says. “After years of researching the best treatments and techniques, we wanted to share what we’ve learned with others.”
The team at 4Ever Young plans to continue growing and expanding access to high-quality anti-aging treatments, empowering more people to feel confident at every stage of life.
For those looking to refresh their appearance, restore their energy, and embrace aging with confidence, 4Ever Young Leawood provides a modern, science-backed approach to looking and feeling your best.
