We’re kicking off 2026 with a big-picture conversation you won’t want to miss—Happy New Year! 🎉 In this first episode of the year, we’re taking a clear-eyed look back at what the real estate experts predicted for 2025… and what actually happened.

Nationally, the market ended up fairly flat, making 2025 the third consecutive sub-par year compared to the pre-COVID boom. We break down the numbers, what drove the sluggishness, and what it all really means for buyers, sellers, and industry professionals.

From there, we shift our focus forward and dig into the forecasts for 2026—where the opportunities may lie and why education, especially for first-time homebuyers, is more important than ever. Here in Springfield, the numbers may surprise you: the average monthly mortgage payment is $86 less than the average monthly rent, making homeownership a more affordable option than renting.

We also explore housing gaps in our market, including the growing need for more townhomes and patio homes, and what that could mean for future development. To wrap things up, we dive into top legislative priorities for the National Association of REALTORS®, including:

• Encouraging all levels of government to revisit zoning laws and regulations
• Advocating for the elimination of federal capital gains taxes (with Missouri already leading the way by removing state capital gains taxes)

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, investor, or just someone who likes to stay informed, this episode offers timely insights, practical takeaways, and a thoughtful look at where the housing market is headed in 2026.

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As we wrap up another incredible year of conversations, growth, and leadership lessons, we’re closing 2025 with a special best of episode of the Simply Authentic Podcast.

In this final episode of the year, we combed through our 2025 archive to bring you some of the most compelling, insightful, and memorable moments from the show. You’ll hear powerful pearls of wisdom from Nixa football head coach John Perry, Great American Title, Katie Towns, Director of the Greene County Health Department, mindset coach Angie Wiley, and Joselyn Baldner, President and CEO of Central Bank.

Along the way, your hosts revisit some of their most candid conversations on the importance of listening, leaning into change, and leading with intention—topics that resonated deeply with us and our listeners throughout the year.

Think of this episode as a highlight reel with heart. We hope it inspires you to go back and listen to the full episodes, but for now, settle in and enjoy this mashup of the best of 2025.

Thank you for being part of our community. We’re excited to bring you even more leadership lessons, meaningful conversations, and expert insight from our local leaders in 2026.

Here’s to growth, authenticity, and a brand-new year. Happy New Year! 🎉✨

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This week on the Simply Authentic Podcast, Angie and Tonya are tackling something we all do—but don’t always feel great about: small talk. This episode is a companion to our Listening episode from September and our Networking conversation back in June, because when it comes to building real connections, these skills go hand in hand.

Whether you’re walking into a room full of strangers, attending a networking event, or just trying to avoid that awkward silence, mastering the art of small talk (and truly listening) can make all the difference. Angie and Tonya share practical conversation starters, tips for keeping things from feeling forced or uncomfortable, and real-life examples of how to stay grounded and authentic while connecting with others.

As we head into a new year filled with fresh opportunities and events, this episode is designed to help you feel more confident, more comfortable, and more you when making those everyday connections. Because small talk doesn’t have to be small—it can be the start of something meaningful.

Reference Episode 117 - Networking, Referrals and Building Real Connections and Episode 129 - Listening: The Skill that Speaks Volumes

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