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."

Guest columnist Chris Jarratt: "By effectively using video to communicate company values, culture and opportunities, manufacturers can position themselves as employers of choice in a competitive market."

Guest columnist Katie Jones: "Incorporate direct mail into your marketing efforts and experience the tangible benefits it offers firsthand."

Guest columnist Kara Wolfe: "There’s lots of sites to see and activities to do in southwest Missouri. So, encourage your friends and relatives to seek and escape here and contribute to our economy."

Guest columnist Lynne Haggerman goes over recent legal changes.

Attorney Andy Peebles: "While it’s understandable to have reservations about estate planning, avoiding it can have serious consequences."

Guest columnist Rusty Worley: "The second annual Women’s Day Downtown spotlighted more than 70 women-owned businesses and organizations on April 13. It celebrated how women entrepreneurs make downtown a better place through their creativity, intellect and empathy.  "

Guest columnist Angela McLaughlin: "Your networks matter. Active participation in networking groups offers countless opportunities for professional advancement and growth. As you utilize the collective wisdom and resources within your networking groups, you will discover new pathways to success and prosperity in your professional journey."

Guest columnist Stephanie Staggs: "Regardless of the industry, all business owners I interviewed in this story agree that clients’ trust is essential."

OMB Bank's Jennifer Davis: "The cattle market’s current buoyancy represents more than just fleeting optimism – it embodies the resilience and resourcefulness of our local agribusiness community."

Evangel University president Mike Rakes: "Every student deserves the opportunity to experience the blacksmithing of a degree journey. This will equip them with the vocational and life skills necessary to enter their chosen career field ready to be innovative and compassionate leaders."

Amber Howard and Pam Hedgepeth: "While (competency-based learning) started with the intention to reimagine and redefine the testing and accountability systems within our schools, the benefits to this approach to business and beyond are vast."

Custom Creations Landscaping & Lawn owner Kevin Runyon: "By combining the artistic vision with practical demands, a qualified landscape contractor can ensure that the beauty and functionality envisioned on paper are fully realized."

Throughline Architecture owner Layne Hunton: "Whether it’s through the use of traditional vernacular, emphasizing the unique characteristics or incorporating modern techniques with materials derived from historic uses, Ozarks architecture will continue to evolve while hopefully remaining rooted with a firm cultural commitment."

Spencer Fane attorney Ben Shantz: "Business owners must be certain that they protect themselves through good contract drafting and stay informed about changes in Missouri law."