Editorial Vice President Eric Olson calls for dreamers to share big ideas for the Lake Springfield master plan.

Executive Editor Christine Temple shares a cautionary tale of AI in hiring practices.

Columnist Mark Holmes: "Remember, the impact of distractions goes beyond just causing inconvenience. It affects the customer experience and ultimately influences your business results."

Hamra Enterprises President Simeon Shelton: "People want – and deserve – respect, dignity and to belong to something that makes a difference and fulfills them. They want to contribute to excellence and to be part of a highly connected team. As leaders or managers, let’s focus our attention and intention on fostering great, highly connected relationships that will have our organizations producing the right results."

Missouri Rural Crisis Center's Tim Gibbons: "Monopolistic corporations and centralized and concentrated markets expose consumers to the risks of brittle, unresponsive supply chains, such as shortages of essential goods and increased prices."

Simmons Private Wealth's Andy Drennen: "The best way to mitigate these risks and navigate the uncertainty is to maintain a properly diversified portfolio that’s aligned with your long-term goals and have the discipline to stay the course."

Columnist Bennet Bodenstein samples four international beverages.

Consultant, professional speaker and author Mark Holmes: "Preventing customer churn requires excellent customer experiences and continuously nurturing trust and rapport."

Editorial Vice President Eric Olson goes holiday shopping with a chatbot in the driver's seat.

Bennet Bodenstein samples four products.

Fervent Wealth Management's Richard Baker: "Real profit is the missing piece of the puzzle for green and ESG companies. It will probably come in the near future, but they aren’t there yet."

Strategic Financial's Craig Wright calls on business owners to develop a succession plan.

Guest columnist Maile Auterson calls on the 2023 class of Most Influential Women to continue to be agents of change in the community.

Columnist Bennet Bodenstein samples four selections.

Guest columnist Donnie Brawner says many entrepreneurs stray from their original business ventures, which is often a recipe for success.

Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins breaks down the American Farm Bureau Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Survey.

Publisher Jennifer Jackson: "As we look forward to the upcoming year, these two business events will undoubtedly serve as catalysts for positive change in our community."

Commerce Trust Co.'s Don Davis: "This is an ideal time to talk to a financial adviser. These professionals are available to help you navigate the volatility of the current environment and keep you heading toward your financial goals."

Simmons Private Wealth's Andy Drennen analyzes the delicate relationship between Fed-set interest rates and the economy.

Monica Horton of Springfield City Council discusses the city’s proposed recreational marijuana tax.