EXPECTING
The Springfield area is growing, and the opportunity for all of us to create meaningful change is more achievable than ever before. Here’s to a year of shared triumphs, possibilities, and growth. Together, let’s make 2025 extraordinary!
January: New Beginnings
As we step into a new year, a simple truth stands out: It’s what we do most days that truly matters. Small, intentional steps in business, finance, food, home, personal, and spiritual health create the foundation for a fulfilling and balanced life.
Nature gently nudges us—to retreat, rest, and reset. Taking time to clear and rethink the spaces where we live and create is rejuvenating. The products we choose and the businesses we sup port not only influence our health but also shape our communities. Every choice, no matter how small, holds the potential to spark positive change.
This issue celebrates health and Cassie Dimmick of Achieving Your Best (AYB), a champion for wellness in our community, plus Nancy Bogart of Jordan Essentials, whose impact in the industry inspires us. Whether it’s improving metabolic health, reimagining spaces, or finding ways to give back, it’s small daily habits that create lasting impact.
January is an opportunity to reset and refocus—not with massive overhauls or quick fixes, but by centering on what truly matters. A “January mindset” invites us to create, connect, and renew. Visualizing goals through a vision board, refreshing our spaces, or simply nurturing connections with others can bring fresh energy to the year ahead.
Self-care is an act of love, both for yourself and those around you. By caring for yourself today, you invest in a healthier, brighter tomorrow. As Bon Jovi says, “It’s my life, it’s now or never.” Each day is a chance to live fully and move closer to the true wealth in life- health.
At Springfield City Lifestyle, we’re not just producing content—we’re weaving together stories, businesses, readers and community into a shared vision. Together, we celebrate growth, connection, and purpose.
Cheers!
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Donna King | donna.king@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Brian Walker | brian.walker@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tina Lesniak | tina.lesniak@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Donna King, Tina Lesniak, Rob Bell, Mel Boban
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Tiffany Enowski
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
DONNA KING, PUBLISHER @SPRINGFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE
business monthly
Non-Profit Outlook Inspires Action: Strengthening Partnerships for Community Impact
At the Non-Profit Outlook on Oct. 30, a record turnout of over 300 attendees heard thoughtful dialogue around the power of tangible partnerships between nonprofit organizations and the private sector.
The discussion, moderated by Joe Daues, Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks, included insights from the following panelists: Andrea Brady, Great Southern Bank; Mary Kromrey, OWN, Inc.; Kimberly Shinn-Brown of the Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation; Kevin Weaver, The Warrior’s Journey
Over 600 Area Students Participate in Career Exploration
On Oct. 29 and 30, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual 7th and 8th Graders Go To Work program in partnership with the Agency for Teaching, Leading and Learning at Missouri State University. More than 600 students from 19 area schools connected with 20 businesses in the region for career exploration focusing on non-traditional paths. The program encourages students to explore career fields that break down gender stereotypes and offer wider possibilities.
Whiskey & Words
Tremendicon’s Whiskey & Words held at Best of Luck Beer Hall, first Wednesday every month 7-10 pm for a night of creativity, writing prompts, camaraderie and fun. Not a writer? You can still join the fun as a participant or spectator. If you know other writers in the area, please let them know. This is an ages 21+ only event. Scan to read more
R A NSFORMATION INSPIRES
SREHT
ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANY ENOWSKI
Cassie has built a strong team at AYB.
“Each person has the ability and willpower to have a healthy lifestyle.”
As a seasoned marathon runner, Cassie works hard to maintain her health.
Not everyone grows up an athlete or health enthusiast. Some people discover their potential later in life. This is the story of a person whose passion for fitness and nutrition was born from personal transformation. Today, Cassie Dimmick leads a thriving health and wellness community, empowering others to live their best lives.
“I am passionate about fitness and healthy eating for all people because I did not have an athletic or healthy background, I was able to learn, change how I thought, and change my habits and I got amazing results that have lasted for over 20 years through life’s many ups and downs,” says Cassie, who owns Achieving Your Best: Nutrition and Training (AYB) in Springfield. “Because of my history, I love to encourage people along their health journey, share tips and help them
get there. Each person has the ability and willpower to have a healthy lifestyle and I help bring out that potential, nurturing their strengths to help them stay on track.”
Cassie has lengthy credentials: a master’s degree in nutrition, a registered dietitian with a board certification in sports nutrition, an exercise physiologist and an RRCA running coach - but she isn’t stopping there.
“I am currently in a program to be a certified health coach, a rigorous program to teach how to help people make meaningful connections and find motivation to make the changes they want to make,” explains Cassie. “Teaching people to give their body and mind what it needs and work with it is something that can change the outcome of our health and help us get the most out of our training and life.”
Although health and training play a significant role in Cassie’s life, that was not always the case. As a child, she was not involved in many sports and “was often picked last in gym,” she recalls. While at college at Texas A&M University, Cassie took a class on athletic development at the school’s recreational center.
“I learned how to do tough running drills and other bootcamp-like movements, improving my confidence and strength. I found the weight room and started lifting free weights, which was a turning point in my life,” recalls Cassie. “There were not many females in the weight room at that time, but I got over my fears and went for it. Strength training was the foundation that I needed to propel my body forward to be able to do so many physical things I was not able to do previously.”
After taking a nutrition class, Cassie also adjusted how and what she ate, a decision that was just as important as her physical workouts.
“I did not eat well when I was younger and, because I struggled with my weight, I tried every fad diet and my weight was like a yo-yo,” says Cassie. “I learned about the science behind nutrition, how the body works and how to actually look at research. I learned how to fuel my body and have eaten this way for over 20 years, with excellent results, body contentment, actual energy to live life, and so much more happiness than I could have dreamed of.”
With that wealth of knowledge, Cassie now works to help others have their healthiest lives through training programs and offerings at AYB. She works to simplify and personalize the paths toward a healthier lifestyle.
“I do this through building awareness, providing education, helping people with motivation through coaching, and setting actionable goals with accountability,” notes Cassie. “I am passionate about helping people enjoy life. We are only here for a short time and feeling good and enjoying your lifestyle is so important. If we don’t feel good and don’t enjoy it, we won’t do it.”
In addition to helping others, Cassie finds great joy in her own running, working with Lululemon and making memories with her family, like on a recent trip to Australia. Cassie began running during college as a way to manage stress and improve her health. After finishing her first 5k race, she felt empowered to do more and worked her way up to a marathon. Cassie finished her first marathon in Houston but felt she could do better. That’s when she became a certified running coach, board-certified sports dietitian, and an ACSM exercise physiologist. She qualified for the Boston Marathon in 2006 and 2007.
“I have continued my running in Springfield, training runners and leading groups of runners,” says Cassie. “I was even chosen as the Lululemon running ambassador for Springfield for 2023 and
Cassie takes a break from a workout.
Free weights are a big part of Cassie’s routine.
then was asked to continue for two more years. This has been such a great opportunity to connect with the community and work with a wonderful international company and our awesome local Lululemon store.”
All of these experiences have shaped Cassie into a health and wellness entrepreneur who truly just wants to live her best life and help others live theirs.
“We have so much research that shows that a healthy lifestyle is the most important thing you can do for your health to both prevent and manage disease and live a long, life full of vitality and purpose,” notes Cassie. “By focusing on small, consistent healthy habits, you can take control of your health without following extreme measures or following other people’s rules.”
On her recent trip to Australia...
I was able to see so many beautiful things. The people were welcoming and friendly and the animals were so unique. It was a wonderful time to disconnect from the business of regular life and connect with myself and my family so I had time to explore, have adventures and be spontaneous. Climbing a mountain in Tasmania, sipping wine in South Australia, exploring beaches on the east coast and snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef were highlights of our trip. Taking time to re-energize and just be is so important, especially when you have a job that is mainly giving to others!
Cassie Dimmick
A LIFESTYLE FOR LONGEVITY
Now in her 50s, Nancy is the healthiest she’s ever been.
Helping people live their best lives.
REINVENTING
LIFE AND BUSINESS WITH HOLISTIC WELLNESS
At 40, Nancy Bogart faced a pivotal moment in her life. A mother and entrepreneur, she found herself at a crossroads—her health and lifestyle needed a change. Motivated by her own struggles, and with her husband Ron who was also ready to make changes, Nancy decided to transform her life. Today, she stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention.
ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“When we hit 40, he and I decided to make a change and I reinvented myself,” Nancy says. “Both of us are in the best health ever.”
As the owner of Jordan Essentials, a wellness company that focuses on using essential oils and is celebrating 25 years, Nancy has reinvented herself and her business. Her journey reflects a holistic approach to health, joy, and work-life balance.
One of Nancy’s personal goals is biking in all 50 states. So far, she has conquered 32 states, with each ride celebrating her vitality and determination.
Her active lifestyle extends to daily habits, like walking her dogs every evening. “We offload our days there,” Nancy shares. “It’s one of the habits we’ve put into place that has been super helpful. We applaud each other when we make moments to take care of ourselves.”
These moments of movement and reflection are part of a larger philosophy: living for longevity and embracing life’s adventures. “My outlook on life is that I prioritize fun and joy,” Nancy explains. “I used to love going on adventures with my kids and savoring those moments. It’s all about focusing on the experience.”
Nancy, and her husband Ron, have a goal of biking in all 50 states.
“CHANGE YOUR MINDSET TO ONE WHERE THINGS WILL WORK OUT.”
Nancy’s commitment to wellness is woven into every aspect of her life, including her work as a certified aromatherapist.
“We ([Nancy and Ron] take a very holistic approach to our lives and live for longevity,” Nancy explains. Creating products like the Dead Sea Salt Soak and magnesium-infused skincare are designed to reduce stress and support recovery after physical activity, helping people to better manage their lives.
“As a CEO, I need to practice what I preach,” says Nancy.
Nancy has faced her share of challenges. During the 2008 economic
downturn, the company she had poured all of herself into faced serious challenges. Just as she has with her own health and wellness journey, Nancy always finds ways to not only manage her challenges but learn to thrive in a healthy manner.
“It’s been such an adventure and has evolved as I have,” she reflects. Today, Nancy embraces a symbiotic relationship between work and her personal lifestyle.
Nancy’s success, both personally and professionally, is rooted in her philosophy of resilience and positivity. She has three main tents to focus her life.
1. Be Fully Present : “Dream big and enjoy the moment,” Nancy advises.
2. Treasure Family : “Family is everything. You form your family. Don’t underestimate the power of friends who become family.”
3. Adopt a Positive Mindset : “Change your mindset to one where things will work out. You see the difference in people looking for ways it will work out instead of ways it won’t.”
As Nancy continues her journey, her ability to adapt, find balance, and embrace joy shows that reinvention is always possible, no matter the challenges.
“Life is about finding that balance between work and play, between stress and serenity,” Nancy says. “When you do, everything else just seems to fall into place.”
For Nancy, wellness is a way of life, and success is about more than just business—it’s about thriving, one joyful moment at a time.
Nancy and Ron enjoy going on adventures together.
For Nancy, life is about enjoying simple moments.
HAPPY, HEALTHY HOME
PREPPING YOUR HOUSE FOR HEALTH AND A POTENTIAL SALE
ARTICLE BY ROB BELL
Home environments shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Selling a house involves creating a healthy, inviting atmosphere that puts buyers at ease. These tips will help you market your listings as happy, healthy homes.
NO CLUTTER
Clutter-free spaces are essential for healthy homes. Prioritize decluttering and tidying every room. Consider renting a storage unit for most of your belongings. If that’s not an option, box them up and put them in the garage. Emptying the home, except for necessary furniture and a few personal touches, creates a sense of health, allowing buyers to envision themselves living there.
A decluttered home is a healthy home.
CLEANING GREEN
You want your listings to sparkle, but harsh chemicals can leave an unpleasant odor. Eco-friendly cleaning products effectively cut through grime and kill germs without the chemical smell. Many eco-friendly cleaners utilize essential oils and plant-based ingredients, leaving your home smelling fresh and inviting.
A QUIET PLACE
Pay attention to furniture placement to create peaceful and inviting spaces in your home. Group sofas and chairs into intimate conversational areas, or place small end tables near chaise lounges for quiet reading.
MOTHER NATURE
Numerous studies have shown that exposure to plants can reduce stress and improve mood. Live plants can create a serene atmosphere and purify the air.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
When showing a home, aim to maintain an indoor temperature in the mid-70s to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Subtle differences in lighting can impact a buyer’s perception of a home’s comfort. Studies have shown that poor lighting can negatively affect cortisol levels, so maximize natural light and use daylight-mimicking bulbs to create a positive and inviting atmosphere.
ROOM TO MOVE
Staying active is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Dedicate a room for yoga or gym equipment, or clear a lawn for activities like football or soccer. If the home has a pool, emphasize its health benefits in your property description.
“Clutter-free spaces are essential for healthy homes. Prioritize decluttering and tidying every room.”
CREATE HEALTHIER, HAPPIER HOMES WITH COLOR
Simple color choices make a big difference in how buyers perceive a home. A clean, white interior creates a sense of calm, while pops of bright color can energize and excite potential buyers.
Rob, a licensed real estate agent with more than 20 years of experience, and a certified negotiation specialist, was the 2016 Realtor/Salesperson of the Year and the 2020 Greater Springfield Board of REALTORS President.
Nontoxic cleaners make a home smell amazing.
Plants bring cleaner air and a sense of calm.
nature’s reset
A one-day transformation inspired by the cycles of nature
Nature reminds us of the power of resetting. Trees shed their leaves, rivers carve their banks, and seasons shift to make way for new growth. These cycles of renewal aren’t just limited to the outdoors—they offer a framework for our lives. Whether it’s organizing a closet or a mounting to-do list, the process of simplifying, letting go and resetting is refreshing. This simple yet profound approach can apply to any area of life. Inspired by nature’s wisdom, here’s how you can reset.
1. START WITH BOUNDARIES
In nature, boundaries create harmony. Rivers define their flow within their banks, forests end where grasslands begin and ecosystems partition resources to thrive. Similarly, start by identifying boundaries in your space or situation.
• Audit what matters: Take Inventory. Does it fit into the life I want to live?
• Set limits: Create zones for what’s essential, what’s secondary, and what no longer serves a purpose.
• Let go: Release anything tied to guilt, obligation or outdated intentions. There’s a season for everything and you are a new person today.
Boundaries, whether physical or emotional, create space for what truly matters.
ARTICLE BY DONNA KING, INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION HEALTH COACH
2. DEFINE YOUR ZONES
Every area in nature has a purpose. Practical boundary-defined zones mirror the way ecosystems maintain harmony, by partitioning resources and interactions. Trees spread their roots underground for stability and their canopies above for sunlight. They carve out their territory while coexisting with others, creating balance in every direction. Apply this principle to your task:
• Identify priorities: What needs immediate attention?
• Create structure: Divide the space or problem into manageable sections.
• Simplify: Ensure each area has a defined role that aligns with your goals.
This process of zoning not only brings order but also ensures resources— whether time, energy or materials—are used intentionally.
3. USE THE RIGHT RESOURCES
Nature is resourceful and efficient, relying on what’s already available. Follow suit by gathering what you need:
• Bring in support: A fresh perspective from a friend, colleague or coach can help you see clearly and act decisively.
• Use tools wisely: Whether it’s organizational supplies, a strategic plan, or even just a notebook and pen, having the right resources can streamline the process.
• Work with what you have: Repurpose existing items or ideas before seeking out new ones. (This may have been what caused you to freeze in the first place.)
Efficiency paired with creativity ensures the process feels achievable, not whelming.
4. RIPPLE EFFECT - EFFORT LESS.
What starts as a physical or task-based reset often evolves into something deeper. Clearing one area creates clarity and motivation for others. Simplifying leads to relief, focus, and renewed energy.
The transformation doesn’t just impact the immediate space—it shifts habits, perspectives, and priorities. Mornings become calmer, decision-making feels lighter, and routines become more intentional. This is meaningful – impactful change!
5. APPLY THE PROCESS TO ANYTHING – EVEN RELATIONSHIPS!
The beauty of nature’s wisdom is its adaptability. This reset framework works for a cluttered closet, a complex project, or a frazzled mindset:
• Audit what matters.
• Set boundaries and define zones.
• Use resources intentionally.
• Embody simplicity and focus on progress over perfection. Just like nature thrives through incremental change, you can make meaningful progress by starting small.
THE TAKEAWAY
Order doesn’t require monumental changes. It begins with small, intentional resets.
Reclaiming control, much like nature’s cycles becomes an act of self-care. Start small, trust the process, and watch as clarity and growth take root.
Tiffany Enowski Photographer & Videographer
tiffany@tenowskibranding.com tenowskibranding.com
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
JANUARY 9TH
4-Session Signature Foundation Self-Defense Course
F8 Training and Wellness Studio | 6:15 pm
Signature Foundation Self-Defense Trainings are back in January. The 4-Session Foundation Course takes a look at what it is to have situational awareness and teaches the physical skills needed to become proficient at self-defense. The 90 minute classes are limited to 10 participants to keep instruction individualized to your needs and give you plenty of time in the gym. Register at https://www.f8training.com/ Foundations Jr. Courses (Kids Self-Defense) begin January 22.
JANUARY 9TH
Clean Eating Pantry Makeover Store Tour
MaMa Jean’s Natural Market 3530 E Sunshine St., Springfield | 10:00 AM
MaMa Jean’s is offering a free store tour to transform your pantry for a healthier lifestyle. Participants can expect expert guidance on removing toxins, discovering healthier herbs and seasonings, choosing the right flours, sugars, and sugar replacements and selecting cooking oils for optimal health. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn how small changes can lead to big health benefits.
JANUARY 13TH
Halestorm’s Lzzy and Joe: The Living Room Sessions
Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield | 8:00 PM
Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger of GRAMMY-winning hard rock band Halestorm are bringing an intimate tour featuring the two of them performing acoustic, stripped-down versions of Halestorm favorites and the music that has inspired the band. “We’re inviting our fans to experience what it would be like hanging with Joe and me in our living room,” said Lzzy Hale.
JANUARY 20TH
Springfield Multicultural Festival
Oasis Conv. Center, 2546 N Glenstone Ave., Springfield | 12:00 PM
The SGF Multicultural Festival connects diverse people with diverse community resources while providing families with a fun and engaging way to celebrate the Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday. In its 28th year, the Springfield Multicultural Festival celebrates music and dance performances, representing global cultures. Come and learn from community individuals sharing their heritage in a family-friendly environment.
JANUARY 28TH – 30TH
AIN’T TOO PROUD - The Life and Times of the Temptations
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield | 7:30 PM
The electrifying smash-hit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Nominated for 12 Tony Awards and the winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography, it’s a thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal during a decade of civil unrest in America.
JANUARY 31ST
Wild Bob’s Musical Book Club Celebrates the Writing of William Faulkner
Lindberg’s Tavern, 318 W Commercial St.,Springfield, | 7:00 PM
Songwriters and poets write and perform songs and poems inspired by their choice of William Faulkner’s writing. Each month the book club tasks Springfield songwriters with the challenge of writing an original song inspired by the monthly book selection and performing it live. Local musician Jack Bowden is the special guest host. The cover charge is $10.
