Description

Women Inspiring Women: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Even the most accomplished leaders have moments when doubt creeps in.

The Women Inspiring Women Committee is bringing together four incredible female leaders from our community for an honest and powerful conversation about imposter syndrome. Speaking about those moments when pressure, expectations, or the feeling of not measuring up shows up in our leadership journey.

Through personal stories and candid discussion, our panelists will share how they’ve navigated those moments, pushed through self-doubt, and continued to lead with confidence.

Whether you are early in your career, leading a team, or simply navigating your next step, you’ll walk away with perspective, encouragement, and practical insight.

Meet the Panelists

Mayor Jill Shudak

Mayor, City of Council Bluffs

Mayor Shudak serves as the Mayor of Council Bluffs and brings years of experience in public leadership and community development. Her perspective on resilience, responsibility, and leading through pressure will offer valuable insight for women at every stage of their careers.

Kristen Blum

President, CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs

Kristen Blum serves as President of CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs, where she leads a large healthcare organization serving the region. Throughout her career in healthcare leadership, she has navigated complex decisions, high expectations, and the responsibility of leading teams through change. Her leadership journey reflects the balance of confidence, humility, and courage required to lead in demanding environments.

Ashley Kuhn

Ashley Kuhn is the Co-CEO and co-founder of Blair Freeman, the first fully woman-owned and Black-owned construction and owners representation company in Nebraska. With over 20 years in real estate development and construction, Ashley has managed more than $700 million in projects, building expertise in both the technical and operational sides of the industry. Passionate about creating positive community impacts, she actively works to build stronger partnerships and opportunities within the construction industry.

Tara Slevin 

Tara Slevin serves as Chief Philanthropy Officer of Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital and President of the Jennie Edmundson Foundation, where she leads philanthropic strategy and community initiatives that expand access, strengthen partnerships, and improve lives across Southwest and Western Iowa. With more than 25 years of leadership experience, she is known for bringing people together around a shared purpose and leading with both compassion and clarity. Her perspective reflects the confidence, resilience, and authenticity that come from a leadership journey shaped by challenge, growth, and impact.

Meet the Moderator

Deanna Walz

Deanna Walz is the Director of Development for PACE. An avid arts supporter and community connector, she enjoys theatre, pottery and knitting in her spare time. She believes strongly in the power of woman and dedicates her energy to uplifting voices to share stories and build both empathy and community.