this is the thread

Where we’ve come from and where we’re going


who we are

Welcome to The Thread, a women’s leadership collective created for those who refuse to play small in work and in life. With tailored programs, events and resources, we're here to build you up, connect you with like-minded women and challenge you to stretch. If you're craving authentic relationships and increased self-trust in your professional and personal journey, you've found your place.

Annie Rector and Kristin Hems purchased the first license to bring the concept and collective to Kansas City in 2023, launching our Pilot Cohort in January 2024.

Meet THE Kansas City TEAM

Kristin started her entrepreneurial journey with Third Avenue Events in 2014, which led her to participate in The Thread, Wichita Chapter, in 2022 after some challenging years with Covid and the events world. After participating in the first orientation and workshop, she knew this would grow in her heart and take on a life of its own. Less than six months later, conversations about bringing The Thread to Kansas City began. 

In 2023, the Kansas City Chapter license was signed. The work is just beginning, but Kristin is passionate about helping women find their value and talents in and outside the workplace. Creating a place where women can view each other as friends and cheerleaders instead of competition makes Kristin giddy. Far too often, women face the same challenges and yet feel very alone when we are all in this together.

Kristin lives in Leawood with her husband, Harrison, two girls, Hattie and Hanna, and precious pup, Pippa. The Thread is fueling her passion for creating a different working landscape for Hattie and Hanna in the not-so-distant future. She’s a no-drama kind of girl - except for her Bravo TV.

kristin

Annie is a powerhouse and the other half of ownership for both Third Avenue Events and The Thread Kansas City Chapter. She found her why in the second workshop of The Thread Wichita Cohort 3 and hasn’t looked back since. With a knack for mentorship and being the world’s biggest cheerleader, The Thread Kansas City was a natural fit. Annie finds joy in lifting others up and celebrating their wins while trailblazing a whole new path for women and working moms. She firmly believes there is a seat at the table for everyone and will work tirelessly to ensure the women of The Thread KC find the right seat at the right table for them. 

Annie lives in Lee’s Summit with her husband, Doug, her son, Colin, and her two crazy rescue pups, Morgan and Oliva. Outside of Third Avenue and The Thread KC, Annie enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and reading all the books!

annie

Kelly is a serial entrepreneur and mindset coach, and nothing causes her heart to beat faster than helping other women become the very best versions of themselves. She joins The Thread KC team part time as the Head of Community and is excited to bring her passion for developing others to the forefront in all she does. Her warm heart, sense of humor, and desire to help you feel deeply connected through your time in The Thread will be woven into so much of your experience, in and behind the scenes.

Kelly lives in Overland Park with her husband, Jeremy, is the proud stepmom of David and JJ and adores their rescue dog, Mumford (named after Mumford & Sons). Aside from The Thread, Kelly can be found in her flower garden, swimming laps, traveling, building her Scout & Cellar business, or staying at their Airbnb - @thecocoonchalet.

kelly

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