Guest columnist Brittany K. Hopp: "In a world where it feels like we are often in an information-overload, a valuation should be considered an important tool in any business owner’s toolbox."

Guest columnist James Coffer: "Look at the whole picture of your life – what’s coming, what you want to be doing and how you want to get there – and use that information to judge whether a refinance makes sense right now."

Guest columnist Tammy Sawyers: "Technology changes daily and people change with it. Lenders and title companies need to be forward thinking to keep up, or we may end up behind and eventually nonessential."

Guest columnist Ryan J. Hurn says "implementing a strong employee benefits package is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent and improving employee morale."

Guest columnist Kenny Gott: "College for you or a loved one will likely be among the biggest expenses of your life. A mountain of student loan debt right out of college can be a daunting long-term problem, and inflation on college tuition has been historically higher than typical inflation for many periods, making it difficult to keep up."

Guest columnist Katie Porter: "When it comes to tax, there is one main question on every business owner’s mind: How can I minimize it? Good news: The Missouri pass-through entity tax, also known as a SALT workaround, is an increasingly popular avenue for state and local tax savings among Missouri business owners."

Guest columnist Brett Hodges: "Although it’s impossible to summarize every single one of the changes caused by the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in such a short article, a familiarity with some of these important changes will hopefully be sufficient to put taxpayers and tax professionals on notice that the tax world is about to be very different."

Guest columnist Dr. Brandan Gremminger: "If you or a loved one are presented with an option of receiving group treatment sooner than you can access one-on-one care, please know the research shows you aren’t settling for less. "

Guest columnist Travis Beazley: "Securing an SBA loan involves understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing a robust business plan."

Guest columnist Stephanie Staggs: "In the competitive world of startups, where resources are often limited, trust becomes a powerful and cost-effective tool."

Guest columnist Kelley K. Self: "With today’s technology, business owners have an arsenal of tools available to help operate, market and measure their business. The financial statements report on the results tell a story. It’s an important – story – one every business owner should want to hear."

Insurors of the Ozarks' Bryant Young: "Homeowners who have created a trust agreement as part of their estate plan should consult their attorney and their insurance agent to ensure no coverage issues arise."

Downtown Springfield Association Executive Director Rusty Worley: "Local retail and restaurants are a barometer for the economic health of a community."

Guest columnist Jeremy Harris: "To develop a workforce that is competitive, can sustain itself economically and grow with the future, education in many forms is necessary."

Guest columnist Marlene Chism: "A system for formally developing leaders at all levels gets everyone on the same page and improves vertical communications among the levels of leaders."

Guest columnist Chad Brueckner: "As stewards of the land, it is our responsibility to ensure that farming traditions endure, nourishing communities and feeding the world for generations to come."

Commerce Trust's James Ballard: "Financial planners, estate and tax specialists, investment managers and private bankers, alongside your estate planning attorney and accountant, can help you explore the variety of options available to you and assist with making educated decisions based on your goals and unique financial situation."

Guest columnist Paula Dougherty: "Your home may represent a significant part of your net worth. It’s important to consider how any planned sale impacts your overall financial plan. A financial adviser can help you understand how selling your home affects your long-term goals and financial aspirations."

OMB Bank's Brandon Ayers: "By embracing innovation and meeting the changing needs of their customers, these banks can continue to thrive in the digital age while staying true to their community-focused roots."