Chamber Women's Conference 2025

Rooted and Rising celebrates the strength, growth, and resilience of all women. This year’s theme reminds us that when we stay grounded in our values and connections, we create the foundation to rise higher both personally and professionally. Join us as we explore stories, insights, and inspiration to help women thrive from the roots up.

 

Meet Hannah Istvanko and Sara Chambers, founders of Privy Clear Advertising, a firm bringing strategy, precision, and data-driven expertise to the world of Google Ads.

At the Women’s Conference, they will lead the breakout session Choosing Optimism in Chaos. This interactive workshop invites attendees to embrace resilience, reflect on growth, and stay optimistic even in uncertain times.

Hannah and Sara’s journey is a story of determination and balance. From launching Privy while Hannah was eight months pregnant to thriving in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry, they show how adaptability and perspective lead to lasting success.

Saba Chishti and Lisa Uhrik will lead the session Negotiation of the Ask, moderated by Tiffany Anton of The Biz Foundry and Powered By Her podcast.

Saba Chishti, founder of Inara Consulting, helps women entrepreneurs gain clarity, streamline operations, and build strategies that turn big visions into confident, sustainable success.

Lisa Uhrik is an author, speaker, and mentor with 36 years of experience guiding leaders in purpose-driven businesses. She co-owns two manufacturing companies, a general contracting organization, and helped found the nonprofit Plenty Bookshop.

Together, they’ll share practical insights on negotiating with confidence and creating stronger outcomes in both business and life.


Kori Edgington and Sherry Spradling will lead the session Finding Your Passion Project, moderated by Jill Stalnaker, Co-Founder and CEO of Ripple.

Kori Edgington is the owner of Select Designs, a Cookeville retail shop specializing in screen printed and embroidered apparel and gifts. Running the business for six years, Kori blends creativity, resilience, and community focus with family life as a mom of two. She has turned her entrepreneurial journey into a true passion project, championing small businesses and the Upper Cumberland community.

Sherry Spradling, Founder and CEO of Birth Tissue Donor Services and Seeds Maternity, has over 30 years of leadership experience in the biotechnology and tissue banking industries. She created BTDS to better support and educate new moms, making the birth tissue donation process seamless while prioritizing mom and baby. In addition to her work in healthcare, Sherry is passionate about community development and entrepreneurship. She also owns Broadway Boutique and several luxury Airbnb properties in Cookeville.

Together, they’ll share how to turn personal passions into meaningful projects that make an impact.

Ashley Waters and Kenisha Middlebrooks will lead the session Leading Without Limits: Breaking Barriers in Leadership, moderated by Chelsea Dartez of Upper Cumberland Lifestyles Magazine.

Ashley Waters, owner and managing attorney of Waters Law, combines a legal career with prior experience managing multi-million-dollar NASA projects. Recognized for excellence and community leadership, she empowers others through integrity and innovation.

Kenisha Middlebrooks, Customer Service Manager at Altium Packaging, brings 13 years of industry experience and six years of leadership. She excels at building high-performing teams and driving operational success.

Their session will provide actionable insights for breaking through obstacles and stepping confidently into leadership roles.