Advertising – Publication – Show Me The Ozarks Magazine – Joplin MO

Serving Advertisers & Readers – 4 State Areas

Since 2001, Show Me The Ozarks Magazine has boldly and uniquely showcased the people, places and events that make the 4-States such a fantastic place to live, work, play and visit.

We continue to celebrate with you, our loyal readers and advertisers, all that makes our region so exceptional. The sights and the sounds. The parks and the trails. The dining. The shopping. The sports and the theatre. The nightlife and the day trips. The rich heritage and the promising future.

ShowMe The Ozarks Magazine promises to provide you with the highest possible level of quality, integrity and professionalism possible. If you have a story that you’d like to share with our readers, or if you have comments, questions or suggestions, we would like to hear from you!

From the Publisher

 “The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go.” 

This quote that makes its way around social media this time of year certainly rings true in the Ozarks. We’re surrounded by vibrant hues of red, orange and gold as the leaves transition from thriving greens to rich jewel tones. Fall’s cooler temperatures draw us back outside to cheer on our favorite teams, carve a pumpkin or gather little ones for a hayride. This October issue is chock-full of memory-making events and activities you don’t want to miss, including the 57th Annual Maple Leaf Festival® of Carthage. We also detail the 125-year legacy of the Carthage Water & Electric Plant. 

Seeing beauty in seasons of change resonates with us because we’re reminded that while much of life is beyond our control, we can learn to embrace the unknowns. We can take risks and trust that although change can be hard, it can also be good. Which is exactly why I’m meeting you here on this page. 

As the new publisher, I come to Show Me The Ozarks with a true appreciation for the quality of life we enjoy in our region, a personal understanding of the daily struggles and successes of business owners and entrepreneurs, and a love for storytelling. I earned my undergraduate degree in communications from the University of Missouri and a master’s degree from Liberty University. My childhood was spent on the creekbanks of Arkansas and the suburbs of Kansas City. I have one handsome son and worked as an author and editor for many years before the pandemic changed my plans, as it did for many. 

In September 2020, I bought a small sign and print shop and the last few years have been a blur of learning new skills and balancing priorities. My linebacker had the best signs in his cheering section! With my son graduated and headed for the military, I believe my path has been divinely directed to this time and this business. I am grateful to be starting my new adventure with the help of Lee, Sue and the rest of the amazing team here at the magazine. 

Although changes will come behind the scenes, I want to assure you that we will provide the same quality resource you’ve loved for the past 22 years. Our photographers and writers – your friends and neighbors – will continue to produce the beautiful images and insightful articles highlighting the people, places, businesses and culture of our region. 

Judy Schneider is one of our breast cancer survivors we celebrate this month. She has some hard-fought advice on letting go of the unknowns. “A wise oncology PA told me that you don’t have to know everything in the beginning, it would be too much to handle. I agree with her. We all figure this road out as we walk down it, each in our own way,” Schneider said. 

May your paths be blessed, friends

Chonda Ralston, Publisher/Editor