Beta Theta Pi - University of Kansas

3 E ntrepreneurship has felt like a natural progression for Tyler Enders '11, stemming from his extracurricular experiences at KU and Beta eta Pi, from organizing fundraisers to launching new organizations. And from introducing concepts to building teams, his Beta eta Pi membership coupled with his KU activities provided him the opportunity to practice and prepare for running a small business. Today, Tyler is the co-founder/co-owner of Made in KC, which works with more than 300 local brands and businesses. "We've seen hobbies become part-time jobs, part-time jobs become careers, and companies grow from one to 10 people," he shared. "It's fun to play a role in that process." Fortunately, he has two terrific business partners who share the load and have an incredible level of trust in each other, knowing how to provide each other with checks and balances. He could not imagine navigating the pandemic as a solo owner. "We were able to motivate each other during the tough times, take turns putting in the work, having the hard conversations, and developing creative solutions," he said. "I'm continually amazed at how many people go it alone in small business—it's something I would never do." Looking back at his college years, Tyler never thought he would join a fraternity. "I was relatively confident I wouldn't participate in Greek life; the general connotation around it didn't appeal to me. But it only took one dinner to completely change my mind," he admitted. Aer meeting at Free State Brewery with Jack Hannah '08, Bailor Hardman '08, and Alan Schurle '10, where they had a fantastic conversation that was equally enjoyable and inspiring, it was clear to Tyler that Beta was the best place to meet like-minded individuals who were driven and passionate. "First and foremost, Alpha Nu surrounded me with driven, intelligent, thoughtful friends, and people who have materially influenced me for the better," he said. "I'm a big believer in the concept that everyone is an aggregate or average of those they spend their time with." His time at Beta was full of moments where he and his brothers understood the momentousness of the occasion. Whether it was from alumni or actives, they were continually reminded how instrumental their four years in the house would be; that really allowed him to bask in it. "How memorable and poignant they were," he remarked. "I savored those snow days, From Brother to Businessman Tyler Enders '11 Thankful for Beta Experience weekend excursions, parties, and nights of uncontrolled laughter. I remember trying to make mental notes of those moments, and fortunately there were many of them. What amazes me is how fun they still are to relive again and again." Tyler's pledge class is at that fun stage in life where they're brought together regularly by engagements, weddings, and babies. He knows his pledge brothers' spouses and families well, and while it never seems frequent enough, many of them still engage regularly, whether the catalyst is politics, sports, family, or business. You can connect with Tyler at tyler@madeinkc.co and visit madeinkc.co for your Kansas City gi needs. From apparel to apothecary, there's something for everyone at Made in KC. The 2021 senior class has a brotherhood dinner in Kansas City.

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