By Holly Stevenson Pauline Clance first introduced the term “imposter phenomenon” in a 1978 paper, yet this pervasive sense of self-doubt and fraudulence has only recently gained mainstream recognition. Over time, the term evolved into “imposter syndrome,” becoming widely used in discussions about irrational feelings of inadequacy, particularly among women Read more…
Women business ownership rates are growing at a rapid pace. Even so, female entrepreneurs continue to face barriers in accessing capital and opportunities to grow their businesses. The Fearless team hosted our first Fearless Focus event of 2025 on April 17, focusing on women business owners and their entrepreneurship journeys. Read more…
The moment I stepped into the Women’s Barbell Classic on March 22, the energy around me began to vibrate. I was there to support my big sister, who was competing in the annual lifting competition for her third time, and I found 272 other women celebrating their strength to root Read more…
My entire life, the women around me have lamented growing older. There was the refusal to reveal one’s age. The expensive products that claimed to brighten and tighten every inch of a woman’s body. The longing for the energy and ability to move that had dissipated over the years. The Read more…
By Sarah Noll Wilson “What about the men who are afraid to say the wrong thing?” I was on a podcast recently and talking about ways to build stronger relationships with the team members you serve. The host appreciated my approach and followed up with, “I know a number of Read more…
Maanya Pandey’s life is a balancing act. The Waukee native is in her junior year at the University of Iowa. She’s majoring in public health on the pre-medicine track, preparing to take entrance exams for medical school. She’s a member of a South Asian fusion dance team. She’s also the Read more…
When Madison Melchert was hired as the activities director for Dallas-Center Grimes Community School District beginning July 1, it meant more to her than just finding a new job. It was a continuation of a legacy, giving back to a community that gave so much to her as a young person. Melchert Read more…
In celebration of 25 years of our Women of Influence awards, we asked our alumni to share about a time they were fearless. As you read, you’ll see that many point out that acting fearlessly does not mean having no fear. It means moving forward despite it. Moments of courage Read more…
As told to Nicole Grundmeier Sara Kurovski is the mayor of Pleasant Hill. She is also the president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa. On April 26, 2024, an EF-2 tornado tore through her Des Moines suburb of more than 10,000 residents. Kurovski had learned an important leadership lesson from previous Read more…
As told to Hailey Evans Dana James was born and raised in Des Moines, and she’s made it her mission to tell stories that center Black Iowans’ lived experiences and amplify their voices. She founded Black Iowa News in 2020 and the Black Iowa Newspaper in 2023. She writes the Read more…