01/27/2025
https://entrepreneurofimpact.org/2025/keli-starr
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My son and I are Cofounders of TAKEaSTAND LLC, a gourmet plant-based juice and smoothie outlet service located in Joplin, Missouri.
TAKEaSTAND was conceptualized in 2016, after Corey tried my blueberry smoothie for the first time.
Corey’s response,
“Not only do I feel guilty for not paying you for this, but Mother these are too good to keep to yourself, we need to sell these!”
“Tell me what you need Mother. I just need for you to create.”
And so began the journey with my son whom I lovingly call, Magician.
The previous summer of 2015 was a tumultuous one to say the least! It was a time laden with ill health and melancholic perspectives. A season in itself that would forever change my life. In fact, I never could have fathomed that what I endured was so necessary!
I ultimately knew that if I wanted answers to my dis-ease, I had to stoically stand in my truth! A powerful truth that would magically unfold as the foundation for TAKEaSTAND!
My truth revealed was this, that plant-based food sources have the powerful potential to establish proper balance and restoration of my body!
TAKEaSTAND isn’t just another smoothie bar – we’re a revolution in a cup. Our commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of our operation. From our house-made nut milks to our cold-pressed juices, we ensure that each product retains maximum nutritional value. We never compromise by using artificial sweeteners, concentrates, or fillers.
Our smoothies pack a powerful punch, offering over two servings of fruit in a single drink.
We’re proud to be the first in Joplin to offer Irish moss gel as a nutritional supplement, providing 92 of the 102 minerals our bodies need.
With 17 signature smoothie flavors, 12 dairy-free shakes, 9 Galaxy Bowls, and 10 cold-pressed juices, we offer a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and nutritional needs.
Smoothies & Shakes
Our smoothies and dairy-free shakes are crafted with 100% real fruit and house-made nut milks. Naturally sweetened with dates, they’re free from artificial additives and gluten.
Galaxy Bowls
Our signature smoothie bowls offer a delicious fusion of flavors, layered with homemade granola and fresh fruit toppings for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Cold-Pressed Juices
Using a slow expeller press method, our juices retain maximum nutrients and enzymes. They’re detoxifying, nourishing, and free from heat pasteurization or preservatives.
Signature Healthy Snacks
Our organic candied nut line of pecans, almonds, and peanuts, and our Famous Granola!
In the beginning of our journey, we only had a tent. We were often subjected to wind and rain storms that would literally blow our tent to the ground, while we stood amiss in a disaster of disarrayed supplies and tears that were too strong to hold in. But we relentlessly refused to quit!
We opened our first storefront in 2018. And closed it down in 2020 due to the pandemic and financial challenges. We reopened in another location with the generous help of an investor, but once again we had to close our storefront!
And we still refuse to quit!
I came across this contest and said to myself we have everything to gain let’s go and shoot for the stars….Oh I forgot to mention we are the home of the Best Smoothies in The Galaxy!
Our motto is this,“The greater the push, the greater the reward!”
Sincere gratitude
Keli Starr & Corey Allen
One visionary will be featured in Forbes, receive a one-on-one mentoring session from Daymond John, and take home $25,000.
