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.

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.

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.

Editorial Vice President Eric Olson introduces the annual group of interview guests.

Publisher Marty Goodnight shares his journey to lead SBJ – and his belief that dreams can come true in Springfield, Missouri.

Columnist Andy Drennen: "History shows that advances in technology have only added jobs, and there’s no reason to think that this time will be any different."

Columnist Mark Holmes: "By keeping the strengths of their excessive expectations in check, a perfectionist can help drive a culture of excellence that compels others to strive for success and growth. The bottom line, it takes patience and understanding to work with perfectionists, but the rewards can be worth the effort for everyone."

The Missouri Farm Bureau provides highlights of its annual Farmometer survey.

Editorial Vice President Eric Olson says the idea of compensating City Council members is another growing pain for Springfield.