What ICTMJC Has Been Up to Lately
Startup Grind, Thursday @The Lux
If you haven’t heard, with the start of 2017, Wichita now has its own edition of Startup Grind, powered by Google for Entrepreneurs. Startup Grind is another Wichita community event, held monthly, by and for the entrepreneurs of our city. January’s event was a huge success, with a turnout of 225 people! This month featured Brian Williamson, an entrepreneur in the world of pharmacy. The informal format of the event was set up to resemble a fireside chat between two people. The audience learned the process of Brian coming to be where he is now, including the many challenges and triumphs along the way.
There were many, great takeaways from the affair, and I will highlight only a few now. From my perspective, Brian had the reoccurring focus being on the “team” aspect of business. He attributes his accomplishments to having an amazing group of people surrounding him throughout the entrepreneurial process. As a result of such a strong foundation, Brian and his team were able to create a “culture” throughout their company; he notes that people, whether it be investors or consumers, buy into the environment of a business; not solely its potential or results. A couple of aspects that contributed to the culture of his business included: doing things right the first time, putting themselves outside of their comfort zones, and making it a priority to earn trust of those around them.
Williamson saw a need in the pharmaceutical world and decided that he would be the one to fill it. After 11 years of grinding (hence Startup Grind), he sold his company which he noted was both “the best and worst days of his life.” Brian continues to stay active in the entrepreneurial community in Wichita and elsewhere. When asked for his final thoughts, he mentioned that he himself was optimistic about Wichita's ecosystem being created as long as the individuals continue to work to create the right “culture” as a community to be trusted. Startup Grind's next event will be held the evening of March 9th, put it on your calendar!
Sweetheart Run 5K, Sunday @SCP
As chiropractors, one of our favorite demographics to work with is Wichita’s running community. Our first race was last year, hosted by Wichita Running Company. Keith and I feel so grateful that we have had the opportunity to form a relationship with this amazing group of people. Not many people are pumped to wake up before the sun on the weekend and endure the unpredictable Kansas weather like John, Kim, and the crew.
This weekend’s run was held at Sedgwick County Park and was Valentine’s Day themed. There were about 220 runners plus their supporters braving the wind Sunday morning. Participants received custom finishers’ medals in addition to long sleeve shirts. We find it cool being able to 'run' into familiar faces at these monthly races and are looking forward to the St. Patrick’s Run 5K Walk coming up on March 11th. Join us for the costume contest and lighthearted atmosphere!
