Think Summit 2026 Agenda
Stay tuned for more details.
Morning Sessions
8:15 a.m.
Setting the Stage Event Kick-Off
Logan Aguirre | Publisher, Biz 417
Tom Douglas | CEO, JMARK
Logan Aguirre and Tom Douglas open the day by welcoming attendees into the room and setting the tone for the conversations ahead. Together they challenge the audience to lean into curiosity, challenge assumptions and think boldly about the future of 417-land.
8:30 a.m.
The Community Habit | Business Tactic
Katie Day | Coach and Speaker
Community doesn’t just happen. It is built through small, intentional habits. In this engaging session Katie Day shares practical ways leaders can cultivate connection and belonging inside teams, organizations and the broader community. A five-time certified habit coach and Emmy Award–winning comedian Katie blends research-backed strategies with humor and creativity to show how small consistent actions turn community from something we hope for into something we actively build.
8:45 a.m.
Five Questions We Always Get Asked | Future Forecasting
Christina Angle | CFO at Erlen Group
John Griesemer | CEO at Erlen Group
In this candid conversation Erlen Group leaders Christina Angle and John Griesemer share how a multigenerational family business honors its legacy while continuing to evolve. They explore the questions behind strategic growth, reinvention and community impact—and how thoughtful leadership continues to shape Springfield’s future.
9:10 a.m.
Legacy Spaces Reimagined Panel | Future Forecasting
Brad Feuerbacher | Director of Operations at Brown Derby Wine Center
Tyler Hellweg | Principal Architect at Arkifex Studios
Sheri Perkins and Renee Textor | Co-owners at The Table
Steven Belden | Operating Partner at Sunshine Event Center
How do historic spaces find new life? In this panel led by 417 Magazine Food Editor Tessa Cooper, local leaders share how they’re reimagining legacy buildings for the next generation. From Route 66 landmarks to longtime community gathering places, these projects—including the future home of The Holler Music Hall—show how honoring the past creates space for new businesses, new stories and new memories in 417-land.
Mid-Morning Sessions
10:20 a.m.
Secure Success | Business Tactic
Chris Bryant | Business Coach/Broker & PR at Murney Associates Realtors
Trust is the foundation of every successful relationship—whether in business, leadership or life. Chris Bryant shares how building trust with intention strengthens teams, deepens relationships and unlocks new opportunities for growth.
10:40 a.m.
The Power of Belief | Thought Leadership
Zack Morgan | Accountant at The Whitlock Co.
What happens when you take something that once seemed impossible and make it normal? Zack Morgan explores how belief—both in yourself and others—reshapes expectations and opens doors to achievements that once felt out of reach.
10:55 a.m.
Adapt to Thrive | Future Forecasting
Tom Douglas | CEO at JMARK
In this forward-thinking talk Tom Douglas, CEO of JMARK, explores three critical areas shaping the future of business: preparing for the economic crisis of the 2030s, harnessing the power of AI as a service and developing leadership skills necessary to thrive during rapid change. With decades of experience leading innovative IT services Tom offers a compelling vision for how our region embraces uncertainty, seizes new opportunities and leads with purpose in a fast-changing world.
Lunch
Each meal box will be clearly labeled with allergens. We have done our best to make accommodations for most major food allergies. Each meal box will be clearly labeled with allergens, we have done our best to make accommodations for most major food allergies. Check back closer to the event for lunch menu options.
Afternoon Sessions
12:20 p.m.
Making Space | Thought Leadership
Andrea Harp | Director of Marketing at Care to Learn
True community happens when everyone feels they belong. Andrea Harp shares how leaders create environments where individuals feel welcomed, valued and empowered to contribute—building stronger organizations and stronger communities in the process.
12:40 p.m.
417-land Futurecast | Future Forecast
David Cameron | City Manager at City of Springfield
Crystal Quade | Executive Director at Downtown Springfield Association
Jonas Arjes | Senior Vice President of Economic Development at Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
Three leaders shaping the region’s future come together to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing 417-land. From downtown growth to regional strategy and economic development, this conversation explores how collaboration across sectors can sustain momentum for the region’s next chapter.
1:15 p.m.
Expertise Is Earned | Business Tactic
Mark Smith | Dean, McQueary College of Health and Human Services at Missouri State University
In a world chasing shortcuts, true mastery still requires discipline and dedication. Mark Smith shares three principles that help leaders move beyond surface success to develop expertise that builds lasting credibility and influence.
1:30 p.m.
What Classrooms Teach Us About Culture | Thought Leadership
Dr. Cherie Norman | Principal at Cowden Elementary, Springfield Public Schools
Inspired by the Ron Clark Academy model, Dr. Cherie Norman transformed her school’s culture through intentional leadership and high expectations. In this inspiring talk, she reveals how culture—whether in a classroom or a workplace—can shape confidence, accountability and joy.
Mid-Afternoon Sessions
2:25 p.m.
Owning the Narrative | Thought Leadership
Carissa Codel | Morning News Anchor at KOLR10
When online criticism turned personal, Carissa Codel chose to take control of the story. In this powerful talk, she shares how turning negativity into authenticity helped her build confidence, strengthen her voice and connect with audiences on her own terms.
2:45 p.m.
Resilient by Design | Future Forecasting
Moderator: Logan Aguirre | Publisher at FourOneSeven:
Jarad Johnson | Founder & CEO at Mostly Serious
Max Buetow | President and CEO atCoxHealth
Tom Douglas | CEO at JMARK
Looking beyond today’s headlines, this panel explores the risks and disruptions that could test the Ozarks in the years ahead. These leaders discuss the strategic moves required to build organizations—and a region—designed to withstand change.
3:15 p.m.
Oh! One More Thing All-Speaker Panel
To close the day, every speaker returns to the stage to share one final takeaway. This rapid-fire finale captures the spirit of Think Summit: big ideas, honest insight and the belief that the best conversations happen when we’re in the room together.
Ways to Think Summit
What is Biz 417's Think Summit?
Biz 417’s Think Summit presented by JMARK is the one-day, can’t-miss event for business professionals in the Ozarks. As the magazine for business, we’re the Ozarks’ biggest cheerleader—rooting for the people putting in the work, the conversations that matter and the innovation shaping what’s next.
Think Summit brings together the best of a conference, networking event and town hall, all in one room. No matter where you are in your career or how big your business is, you’ll find big ideas, practical takeaways and connections that make a lasting impact.
Who is this event really for?
Biz 417’s Think Summit is for anyone invested in growing as a leader—whether you’re early in your career, leading a team or building a company. Attendees span industries, roles and experience levels, all connected by a shared interest in learning, collaboration and community.
Discounted tickets are available for young professionals, along with Team Passes for companies bringing groups.
We see a range of professions, industries and career levels in the room but take pride in the level of attendees who come every year.
If you are new to the area or have lived and worked here your whole life, this event sets the stage for incredible networking and connections in the business community.
It’s my first time attending. What should I expect?
Expect a fast-paced, high-energy day featuring short talks, panels and conversations with business leaders from across the region. You’ll hear inspiring ideas, connect with people you’ll actually want to follow up with and leave with takeaways that stick long after the day ends.
What’s the ROI of attending Think Summit?
Biz 417’s Think Summit delivers high-impact professional development without the cost or time commitment of an out-of-market conference. Attendees gain access to regional leaders, practical insights and connections that often spark new ideas, collaborations and momentum back at work.
Team Passes make it an especially cost-effective option for aligning and energizing your team.
What should I bring to Biz 417's Think Summit?
A notebook, pens, business cards and an open mind. If you need to check in with work, bring your laptop—there’s a coworking area available. Don’t forget a charger.
Where do I park and check in?
Biz 417’s Think Summit takes place at Convoy of Hope Global Headquarters, 1 Convoy Drive, Springfield, MO 65802. Enter through the main doors on the south side of the building and proceed to event check-in.
Can I access these talks after the event?
Yes. Digital access to recorded sessions is available as an add-on during registration, allowing you to revisit select content after the event.
Will there be anywhere I can take a phone call if needed?
Yes. Convoy of Hope offers ample indoor and outdoor space, including a courtyard, for phone calls, networking or taking a break throughout the day.
