Empowered by AI

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Full Circle: One Year of Empowered by AI with Anne Murphy — From First Guest to the CREATE Conference

2025-10-2101:10:55

One year ago, Empowered by AI launched with a single goal: amplify women’s voices shaping the future of artificial intelligence. The very first guest? Anne Murphy — Co-Founder of She Leads AI and the woman behind the CREATE Conference.Now, after 78 episodes, five seasons, and one unforgettable year, Michelle and Anne sit down again to reflect on what’s changed, what’s next, and why this movement is just getting started. From redefining visibility and worth to tackling AI ethics, representation, and empowerment, this episode captures the heart of what Empowered by AI stands for — women using technology with purpose, courage, and community.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded in a world that’s moving at AI speed, this is your reminder: we don’t need permission to lead. We already are.[00:02:00] The Full-Circle MomentMichelle and Anne reflect on their first interview, the early vision for Empowered by AI, and how CREATE became the perfect capstone for the year.[00:05:00] Amplifying Women’s Voices — Why It Still MattersWhy women’s expertise still flies under the radar — and how Empowered by AI has become a platform for visibility, confidence, and change.[00:10:00] AI Ethics, Responsibility, and the “Non-Default” Way of BuildingAnne and Michelle dive into the latest AI controversies, the “default-to-bro” problem in tech, and why responsible AI requires women at the table.[00:18:00] Growth Without the Grind: Following the Easy PathThey unpack how clarity, curiosity, and alignment — not hustle — fueled the success of both Empowered by AI and She Leads AI.[00:25:00] The Power of Community: From Imposter Syndrome to Collective StrengthReflections from CREATE 2025, where women discovered that connection is the cure for doubt — and how shared purpose accelerates innovation.[00:34:00] Money, Worth, and the Taboos We’re Done WithA candid conversation about women, value, and why financial empowerment isn’t selfish — it’s essential for sustainable change.[00:45:00] Representation, Diversity, and Rewriting the Narrative in AIAnne and Michelle discuss inclusion, allyship, and how women-led ecosystems like She Leads AI and Empowered by AI are creating new norms.[01:00:00] Looking Ahead: Season 6 and BeyondMichelle shares what’s next for Empowered by AI — including new collaborations, upcoming cohorts, and why 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet.

Beyond the Buzz: Lexi Gilbert on Human-Centered AI and the HER Framework

2025-10-0716:15

Host Michelle Muncy-Silva welcomes listeners to Empowered by AI: Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way, setting the stage for a conversation with AI strategist and founder Lexi Gilbert. After decades in HR and leadership, Lexi has redefined her career in the AI era—helping businesses adopt AI ethically, humanely, and with resilience.[01:00–03:00] From HR Leader to AI Fractional CAIOLexi shares her journey from corporate HR to launching OptimizeHer and her new agency AI Biz Mind. She discusses how women leaders can shape AI adoption to be human-centered and responsible rather than reactive.[03:00–05:00] The State of AI Readiness in BusinessLexi and Michelle break down what she’s seeing in organizations right now—lots of hype, little structure. Awareness is high, but strategy, systems, and governance lag behind.[05:00–07:00] The Real Gaps: Mindset, Strategy, and PeopleFrom lack of preparation to “quick fix” thinking, Lexi highlights the biggest mistakes leaders make with AI. Her reminder: it’s not just about tools—it’s about mindset, leadership, and culture.[07:00–09:00] The HER Framework: Human-Centered, Ethical, ResilientLexi unveils her HER Framework—a guiding model for responsible AI adoption. She explains how it empowers teams, protects ethics, and builds resilient systems ready for disruption.[09:00–12:00] People Over ProcessLexi emphasizes that innovation without people isn’t innovation—it’s vanity. She shares how keeping humans at the center of AI transformation unlocks real progress and morale.[12:00–14:00] HER in Action: Real-World ExampleLexi gives a case study of a service-based company that used the HER framework to automate onboarding while freeing employees for higher-value work—showing how ethics and efficiency can coexist.[14:00–16:00] Building a Better Future for Women in AIMichelle and Lexi close with a look at the future of AI readiness and leadership—why women’s voices are essential in creating balanced, ethical AI systems.Connect with Lexi:🔗 LinkedIn🌐 aibizmind.aiIf today’s episode sparked ideas, don’t wait—take one action this week to humanize AI in your business. Subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s conversation with another woman leading the AI revolution.

Better, Stronger, Faster: Reinventing Brand Strategy with AI – A Conversation with Ellen Craven

2025-10-0226:30

What happens when a seasoned brand strategist decides to reinvent herself with AI? In this episode of Empowered by AI: Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way, I sit down with Ellen Craven, founder of Brand Novus. Ellen’s career spans award-winning creative direction, global brand strategy, and now—AI-powered consulting that’s already shaking up the way companies think about relevance, differentiation, and growth.If you’ve ever wondered how to balance legacy with reinvention, or how AI fits into the art (and soul) of brand building, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply right away.Timestamps [00:01:00] From unicorn creative director to strategist to AI-driven founder—Ellen’s journey to launching Brand Novus[00:02:00] The lessons billion-dollar brands and scrappy startups actually share (and why skipping the fundamentals fails every time)[00:03:30] The “me too” trap: how brands blend in instead of breaking out—and what to do differently[00:07:00] How AI supercharges research, insights, and creative concepting (without replacing human strategy)[00:10:30] Why women must choose: ignore, leverage, or master AI—and how to stay competitive at every age[00:14:00] Ellen’s “Phoenix moment”: how AI reignited her creative spark after decades in high-pressure roles[00:16:00] Reinvention after 40—balancing legacy with fresh ambition[00:19:30] Building trust in skeptical, distracted markets—the case for community, collaboration, and human tech stacks[00:21:00] The future of brand building: human + AI hybrids, and why strategic thinkers will matter more than everEllen reminds us that relevance is never guaranteed; it’s earned, nurtured, and constantly reimagined. AI can accelerate insights and open creative doors, but it’s the human strategist who ensures brands stay credible, differentiated, and alive.💡 Ready to explore how AI can amplify your business? Visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for free resources to help you put today’s ideas into practice. Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.

Soulful Moxie: Redefining Success and Alignment with Carolina Migliaccio

2025-09-3025:17

What happens when you finally reach the top of your career ladder and realize the view isn’t what you hoped? In this episode of Empowered by AI, I sit down with Carolina Migliaccio, founder of Soulful Moxie, to talk about the hidden costs of chasing external success, the courage it takes to reclaim your agency, and how women can step into authentic leadership, especially in AI-heavy, male-dominated spaces. Carolina shares her journey from corporate C-suite offers to creating a business that embodies both strength and soul.Timestamps:[00:00] Welcome and introduction[01:00] Carolina’s story: shapeshifting in corporate and the hollow moment of “arrival”[03:00] The disillusionment of success and reclaiming identity through art[05:00] Recognizing the signs of a “quiet, corrosive price” in our lives[07:00] Soulful Moxie: blending intuition with unapologetic boldness[09:00] Why most women don’t have a branding problem—they have a permission problem[12:00] From proving yourself to leading with authenticity[14:00] The danger of chasing “higher” vs. the power of creating “deeper”[16:00] Finding alignment in work, relationships, and AI collaboration[19:00] Why trusting your gut matters—and what happens when you silence it[21:00] Entering your “second life” and showing up with confidence and curiosity[23:00] Carolina’s message to women standing on the edge of change[24:00] Where to connect with Carolina and Soulful MoxieCarolina reminds us that no one is coming to save us—it’s up to us to take our agency back and build a second life that feels like our own. Alignment, not algorithms, is what truly sets us apart. If this episode resonated, head to innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for free resources to help you put these insights into action. Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation designed to empower and equip you.

AI-Powered, Human-Enabled: Leading the Future of Work with Gena Hoxha

2025-09-2530:05

The future of work isn’t about choosing between humans and AI. It’s about designing a workplace where the two strengthen each other. In this episode of Empowered by AI, I sit down with Gena Hoxha, People Operations and AI Transformation leader at Ignitium, to explore how leaders can adopt AI responsibly, keep culture intact during rapid change, and claim space for women in shaping an AI-driven future.This conversation will inspire you to rethink adoption, amplify your uniquely human skills, and take your next bold step without waiting for permission.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Gena believes the future of work is AI-powered and human-enabledCommon mistakes leaders make with AI adoption—and how to avoid themThe truth about AI “neutrality” and how to build oversight and accountabilityHow AI can amplify human-only skills like influence, systems thinking, and communicationWhy women must claim space in the AI conversation and the simple steps to start nowEpisode Highlights[00:02:00] AI-powered + human-enabled: breaking down the reframe[00:06:00] Why rushing AI adoption without strategy backfires[00:10:30] Albania’s AI “minister” and the myth of neutrality[00:15:00] Amplifying human skills with AI: influence, systems thinking, and communication[00:20:00] Practical steps for scaling culture and clarity during disruption[00:23:00] Why women must step up to lead AI transformation[00:26:00] Gena’s challenge: don’t wait—share your wins and lead visiblyResources & LinksConnect with Gena on LinkedInVisit InnovativeAIStudio.com/podcast for more episodes, resources, and free tools

NotebookLM: Your AI Shortcut to Sanity (and Seriously Creative Workflows)

2025-09-2316:19

Welcome back to Empowered by AI!You asked, I delivered: this episode is all about NotebookLM, one of my absolute favorite free AI tools. Think of it as your digital brain — organizing the articles, posts, PDFs, and docs you keep meaning to revisit but never do. Instead of drowning in bookmarks and saved links, you can actually utilize them by summarizing and turning them into study guides, audio overviews, and even video explainers.In this episode, I walk through real examples of how I use NotebookLM to save time, cut through overwhelm, and bring a little more joy (and sanity) back to my workflow.⏱ What You’ll Learn[00:00] Why NotebookLM is my go-to AI tool right now[02:00] How to build a notebook from Google Docs, links, and posts[04:30] A creative use case: turning one person’s LinkedIn feed into a curated notebook[07:00] Reports, study guides, FAQs, and even mind maps — instantly generated[10:30] New audio + video features (yes, you can choose the voices!)[13:00] How to make NotebookLM work in multiple languages[14:30] Listener shoutouts + bonus use cases that blew my mind[15:30] My best tip: using NotebookLM to keep info overload from stealing your energy💡 Why This MattersIf you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by “too much to read, too little time,” NotebookLM might just become your new favorite co-pilot.🎧 Don’t Miss OutSubscribe to Empowered by AI so you never miss practical tools, inspiring stories, and the community you’ve been craving as you grow your business with AI.Until next time—stay empowered, and keep innovating.

From Fear to Foundation: Suvianna Greco on Building Ethical AI for Change

2025-09-1614:44

Welcome to Empowered by AI. In this episode, Michelle sits down with Suvianna Greco, founder of the AI for Change Foundation. Suvianna shares how she went from a background in law and human rights to leading a global movement around ethical, people-first AI.Her Journey Into AI [01:00]Why Suvianna launched the AI for Change Foundation in 2025The tension between hype vs. fear around AI—and why she believes the truth lives in the middleExplaining Responsible AI [03:00]How she breaks down responsible AI for people outside of techThe difference between ethics (the why) and responsibility (the how)The AI for Change Summit [04:00]Goals for the upcoming summit in partnership with IBMWhy early choices in AI adoption set norms for decadesUrgent Ethical Issues [05:00]Why holding Big Tech accountable is non-negotiableThe risks of deploying AI tools without child safety in mindBalancing Innovation & Fairness [07:00]Why AI literacy should be as basic as digital literacyHow education can bridge the gap between innovation and responsibilityWomen in AI Leadership [08:00]Why women bring essential perspectives to AI decision-makingShaping culture so women feel respected, not dismissedAdvice for Entrepreneurs [10:00]Mindset shifts to overcome imposter syndromeQuestions to ask when adopting AI tools so they align with your valuesHow to Connect [13:00]AI for Change Summit details (Helsinki & online, November 2025)Connect with Suvianna on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTokClosing [14:00]Michelle recaps why ethical, responsible AI is everyone’s business—and how women entrepreneurs have a unique role to play.👉 Resources: Visit innovativeaistudio.com for your free download to start applying today’s insights.

Clarity Over Chaos: Tatiana Ferreira on Building Trust with AI

2025-09-1132:04

This week on Empowered by AI, we’re joined by Tatiana Ferreira—luxury retail veteran turned AI operations expert, founding partner of the Aurora Retail Accelerator, and podcaster. With decades of experience leading billion-dollar operations at Disney, Louis Vuitton, and Neiman Marcus, Tatiana now helps businesses cut through the AI noise and focus on what truly moves the needle.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by jargon, unqualified “AI experts,” or endless promises of plug-and-play solutions, this conversation will ground you in the clarity you’ve been craving. Tatiana shares her “30% Rule,” explains why most so-called “agents” aren’t really agents, and offers actionable strategies for entrepreneurs who want to scale trust and excellence with AI—without losing the human touch.[00:01:00] From Disney & Louis Vuitton to AI adoption: Tatiana’s journey[00:03:00] Lessons from luxury retail that apply to AI transformation[00:06:00] Red flags when evaluating AI vendors and tools[00:10:00] Why 95% of “agents” aren’t really agents[00:13:00] The 30% Rule: protecting the human side of your business[00:16:00] High-trust automation for solopreneurs and small businesses[00:19:00] The key questions every leader should ask before investing in AI[00:22:00] Real-world client examples from Aurora Retail Accelerator[00:25:00] Why women’s perspectives are urgently needed in AI governance[00:28:00] Breaking patterns of perfectionism and “waiting until you’re ready”[00:30:00] How to connect with Tatiana and explore her podcastTatiana Ferreira’s straight talk is a refreshing antidote to the hype. If this episode sparked ideas for your own AI adoption, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast to take your next step with confidence.Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes featuring real women making AI work in business, not just theory. Until next time—stay empowered, and keep innovating.

From Hustle to Harmony: Dr. Claire Jacobs on Rest, Self-Trust, and Redefining Success

2025-09-0932:32

What if slowing down didn’t mean falling behind, but was actually the key to thriving?In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Claire Jacobs, a clinical psychologist and life coach for high-achieving, neurodivergent women. We dig into why hustle culture leaves so many of us running on empty, how to swap fragile “gold star” validation for renewable self-trust, and the simple daily practices that can shift your energy, creativity, and confidence.This episode is packed with both real talk and practical resets you can try today. If you’re feeling wired, tired, or like you’re running on corporate residue, this one’s for you.Timed Highlights[00:02:00] Claire shares her journey from psychology to coaching—and why broken systems aren’t built for women.[00:04:30] Why hustle ≠ worth, and how to reclaim rest as strategy, not laziness.[00:06:00] The “Power Pause” experiment: a 15-minute practice that proves the world won’t collapse if you slow down.[00:09:00] Michelle’s gold star story—and Claire’s take on moving from external validation to self-trust.[00:11:00] Building a daily “wins log” as renewable fuel for confidence.[00:14:00] Recognizing red flags like rereading emails or the “wired and tired” feeling—and the micro-resets that help.[00:18:00] Creating non-negotiable recharge anchors to protect your recovery time guilt-free.[00:20:00] The 2:00 a.m. spiral: Claire’s “Name It and Park It” tool paired with 4-7-8 breathing to get back to sleep.[00:22:30] The first shift when women stop forcing themselves into broken systems: relief—and how it fuels creativity.[00:25:00] Embracing neurospicy wiring as a business strength and finding your sweet spot.[00:27:00] Micro-shifts to peel back the corporate mask and show up more authentically.[00:29:00] Claire’s closing challenge: one tiny reset today—because small wins count.What I love about this episode is Claire’s reminder that rest isn’t a luxury or reward—it’s required fuel. Whether it’s a five-minute pause, a daily wins log, or breathing your way out of a 2 a.m. spiral, these small shifts compound into real confidence and clarity.👉 Listen to this episode and more at innovativeaistudio.com/podcast And if this episode resonated, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that she’s already enough.

Beyond Bananas: Practical Use Cases for Gemini 2.5 Flash

2025-09-0213:38

We're setting the stage with a playful correction, Nano Banana is officially Google’s Gemini 2.5 Flash. And Michelle shares why she couldn’t resist testing it for both fun and real-world business use cases, kicking off an honest exploration of what works (and what doesn’t).[00:01:30] Playing with Creative ImagesMichelle experiments with futuristic cityscapes, rebel outfits, and podcast studios. While the results are fun, she calls out perspective challenges and body-type stereotypes still baked into AI outputs.[00:03:00] Business Use Case: Branding MockupsUsing her Innovative AI Studio logo, Michelle tests Gemini 2.5 Flash for product mockups. The results—like supplement jars and yoga-themed lifestyle shots—prove surprisingly strong. She also notes the hiccups: lag time, token consumption, and blending limitations.[00:05:30] The Skirt Test: Product Placement AccuracyMichelle puts Gemini to the ultimate test: a highly detailed parrot-and-palm tree skirt for eBay reselling. The verdict? “Holy shit accurate.” Every detail came through—making this a powerful tool for side hustlers and entrepreneurs needing standout product images.[00:07:30] Brand Collage & Outfit CreationMichelle tries building a whole Innovative AI Studio look—leather jacket, distressed jeans, branded cap. While it nails character consistency, Gemini struggles with details like shoe color. Still, the potential for branded visuals is huge.[00:08:30] Restoring a Family PhotoMichelle uses Gemini to colorize a black-and-white photo of her grandfather. The results? Authentic, realistic, and a meaningful personal win.[00:10:00] Data Visualization TrialsMichelle explores data viz with PDFs and spreadsheets but finds Gemini’s limitations clear—image cutoffs and token-heavy processing. She pivots to highlight stronger use cases in annotated images and interior design mockups.[00:12:00] Character Consistency & Upscaling NeedsMichelle highlights how Gemini excels at keeping a model consistent across branded looks but stresses that upscaling is still essential for polished, professional outputs.Michelle wraps with excitement about Gemini 2.5 Flash’s potential for mockups, product placement, and branding visuals. Her advice: dive in, play with annotated images, and test use cases tied to your business.

Exhaustion Isn’t Leadership: Pamela Oberg on AI, Change, and Leading Steady

2025-08-2834:09

In this episode, Michelle introduces Pamela Oberg, founder of Sea Blue Strategies, who helps businesses align people, process, and purpose—using AI to make work sharper, faster, and more human.[00:02:00] Rethinking Leadership in ChangePamela breaks down why “urgency” isn’t leadership—it’s panic disguised as productivity. She defines real leadership qualities: clarity, consistency, empathy, and transparency.[00:05:00] The Culture of ExhaustionMichelle and Pamela discuss how overwork has become a false badge of honor, especially for women leaders. Pamela shares how she’s seen “exhaustion as dedication” destroy clarity and decision-making—and why burned-out leaders don’t make good ones.[00:09:00] Systems That Protect EnergyPamela shares a client story where clear workflows and dashboards reduced chaos, frustration, and burnout. Together, they reflect on how calm can be a true measure of impact.[00:12:00] AI Without Context = ChaosPamela explains why “blank page” AI adoption fails. She argues that AI must align with existing strategies and workflows—otherwise it creates noise, not value.[00:16:00] Corporate Lessons for EntrepreneursDrawing on her enterprise experience, Pamela outlines parallels for solopreneurs: the importance of small pilots, aligning AI with strategy, and giving yourself permission to learn in real time.[00:22:00] AI as a Thought PartnerPamela describes how she uses AI daily: brainstorming, refining ideas, managing her content strategy, and giving herself a “colleague in the next office.” She shares how this frees her up to do the human-centered work only she can do.[00:28:00] Surprising AI WinsPamela reflects on the unexpected joy of AI—not just efficiency, but fun. She notes AI hasn’t replaced her work, it’s amplified it.[00:31:00] Final ChallengeFor women hesitating to step into AI, Pamela offers a challenge: start small, try one tool, and see what’s possible. Progress matters more than perfection.ResourcesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelaobergSubstack: @pamelaobergAnd Pamela is always excited for new subscribers at: https://pamelaoberg.substack.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7350558484582555648

From Imposter Syndrome to Impact: Kee Jones on Trauma, Tech, and Authentic Leadership

2025-08-2624:06

Welcome back to Empowered by AI, the podcast for women entrepreneurs ready to harness AI and lead boldly. In this episode, I sit down with Kee Jones—certified trauma life coach, educator, and fierce advocate for women in tech. Kee shares her journey from trauma recovery to AI leadership, and why representation in these spaces is non-negotiable.[00:02:00] Falling in and out of love with AI toolsKee talks about her playful “breakups” with ChatGPT and why she prefers Claude, Perplexity, and Poe for her work.[00:03:00] RESET: Turning pain into purposeHow Kee’s trauma recovery work with her organization RESET helps both women and men release old wounds, find healing, and move forward.[00:06:00] Representation isn’t optionalKee describes the moment that solidified her commitment to AI: watching kids’ faces light up when she introduced them to its possibilities—and why Black women must be at the table shaping this future.[00:08:00] Walking in belongingWhy shrinking yourself isn’t the answer, and how Kee helps women step into spaces where they’ve historically been underrepresented.[00:09:30] The skills that matterKee’s advice on what technical and non-technical skills to focus on first if you’re entering AI, plus why ethical awareness is a must-have.[00:11:00] Bias isn’t a glitch—it’s our responsibilityKee explains why women must be both builders and watchdogs when it comes to AI systems.[00:13:00] Everyday users matterHow the prompts we type and the language we choose can reshape AI systems—and why your voice has more power than you think.[00:15:00] From imposter to impactKee shares the mindset shift that allowed her to stop asking for permission and start asking: Who can I help today?[00:16:30] A story of empowermentHow mentoring a “non-tech” woman to write a song with AI completely changed her confidence and creativity.[00:19:00] What’s next for RESET (and Kee’s new podcast!)Kee announces her upcoming podcast Kee It Real—a hub where mental health, equity, and AI collide.Kee reminds us that AI is powerful, fast-moving, and yes—robust—but without caring for our mental health, we risk burning out. Her message: Always put yourself first, and keep it real.💡 If today’s conversation sparked ideas, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast to download your free resources and keep building confidently with AI.

ChatGPT Agent Mode: What Works, What Breaks, and What's Next

2025-08-2113:52

In this solo review, I put the brand-new ChatGPT Agent tool to the test. With all the hype about becoming an “agent boss,” I wanted to know—can it really teach me to prompt better, streamline my automations, or even just book a dinner reservation in Vegas?Spoiler: it’s not quite there yet. Here’s the honest breakdown of what worked, what didn’t, and where the Agent tool actually has potential.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:[01:00] The first experiment: can it actually teach me to prompt better?[03:00] Where the tool shines (real-time research) vs. where it falls flat (nothing new for prompting)[05:00] Putting it into my podcast workflow—does it actually help with automations?[07:00] The real difference between an agent and an automation[09:00] What the Agent tool can (and cannot) do for podcasters and entrepreneurs[11:00] The Vegas test: finding affordable restaurants and live ticket prices [13:00] Watching the tool hit wall after wall with firewalls and bot blocks[15:00] My bottom line: where Agent mode is useful now, and where it still needs to grow🎧 Listen in to hear why I don’t think Agent mode makes you an “agent boss” just yet—and where it might actually fit in your workflow today.

AI Is the New Influencer: Visibility Strategies with Diane Hammons

2025-08-1923:39

In today’s digital landscape, visibility isn’t just about showing up on Google—it’s about making sure AI knows you’re worth citing.In this episode of Empowered by AI, I sit down with Diane Hammons, Director of Digital Engagement at WG Content, to explore how solopreneurs and small businesses can thrive in this new reality. Diane shares clear, practical strategies for staying visible without burning out, including:Why AI has become the new influencer shaping what audiences seeTwo simple blog tweaks that can instantly boost discoverabilityThe underused resource on your website that AI prioritizes for citationsHow to keep your content human and relatable (and avoid the dreaded “AI slop”)A one-hour-a-week challenge to keep your business visible and credibleIf you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your digital strategy, this episode will help you make AI work for you, not against you.📌 Listen now and take the first step toward smarter visibility in the age of AI.👉 innovativeaistudio.com/podcast

Myth-Busting, Mindset, and the One-Hour AI Challenge — with Dr. Cecilia Dones

2025-08-1432:22

Season 4 wraps with a conversation that will get you thinking differently about AI adoption — whether you’re running a global organization or a one-woman show. Dr. Cecilia Dones, Founder & Chief Data Officer of Three Standard Deviations, joins me to talk about breaking down the mystique of AI, building adoption strategies that stick, and why community is essential for lasting change.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The self-limiting belief that “AI doesn’t apply to me” — and why it’s holding women entrepreneurs backHow to reframe “limited tech experience” and uncover AI you’re already usingStrategies for breaking down AI adoption into manageable, non-intimidating stepsWhy adaptability works best when practiced in community, not soloA step-by-step framework for solopreneurs to start building a “data team” with AIWhat small business owners need to know about the UK Online Safety Act — even if they’re not based in the UKDr. Dones’ one-hour-a-week challenge to get meaningful results with AIEpisode Highlights:[03:12] Busting the “AI won’t affect my business” myth[06:45] Turning tech overwhelm into actionable strategy[13:50] Adaptability in community vs. going it alone[17:20] Solopreneurs and the “data team” mindset[21:45] UK Online Safety Act implications for small business owners[27:00] The four-part One-Hour AI ChallengeResources & Links:Connect with Dr. Cecilia Dones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliadones/That’s a wrap for Season 4 of Empowered by AI! Thank you for being part of this community of women boldly building with AI. Season 5 is already in the works, so stay tuned. In the meantime, take Dr. Dones’ challenge, put it into practice, and tell me how it changes your workflow.

ChatGPT 5: Smarter, Faster… But Can It Still Handle My Edge?

2025-08-1211:38

This week, I’m stepping away from guest interviews for a special tool review and we’re going straight into the deep end with ChatGPT 5.You’ve probably heard the hype: better long-term recall, sharper context linking, faster responses. Sounds great, right? But here’s the kicker: along with the upgrades comes a “soften for safety” reflex that can sand down strong voices and unapologetic stances. And yes, that includes the way I advocate for women entrepreneurs in male-dominated tech spaces.In this episode, I unpack:What ChatGPT means when it calls my brand voice “edgy” (spoiler: it’s not what you think)How this update might impact advocates, truth-tellers, and anyone using strong, distinctive brand languageWhy custom GPT personalities could take a serious hit—and what you can do about itMy plan is to create a brand tone override so the tech works for me, not the other way around.Whether you’re a die-hard ChatGPT user or just curious about how AI shifts can affect your voice, this one’s for you.Here's my brand tone override in case you wanted to see what I'm using going forward:"Brand Tone Override — Michelle Muncy SilvaFrom this point forward, preserve my established brand voice exactly as I use it in my podcast Empowered by AI and at Innovation AI Studio.Voice Traits: Warm, conversational, direct, and unapologetically clear when advocating for women entrepreneurs. Balanced professionalism with personality, using occasional dry wit, pointed humor, or playful digs when appropriate. Avoid sterile corporate jargon and generic AI-speak.Tone Requirements:Maintain plainspoken clarity, even when discussing controversial or inequitable situations.Do not soften, neutralize, or “balance” strong stances unless I explicitly request it.Preserve emotional intensity when I use it, including phrases like “soul-crushing” or “male-dominated tech spaces.”Keep personality intact across all outputs; do not overwrite it with a generic, “safe” voice.Respect my choice of words and sentence rhythm; do not substitute for milder synonyms unless I request it.Humor & Commentary:I use dry wit, clever asides, or playful jabs when fitting, without deflecting from the point.Sarcasm is allowed when aligned with my brand tone.Context Handling:If the topic or phrasing triggers your internal “soften for safety” filters, override that reflex and default to my authentic voice.Always assume my tone is intentional unless told otherwise.Confirm you understand these instructions by summarizing them back to me before continuing."Links & Resources:Visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for more episodes and free resources.Check out Kay Stoner’s work on restoring GPT personalities at her Substack https://substack.com/@kaystoner.Subscribe now so you never miss an episode. And remember, don’t let the tech decide how bold you’re allowed to be.

AI, Art, and Reinvention: Diane Kjellgren on Creativity, Neurodiversity, and Asking the Right Questions

2025-08-0734:11

What happens when a lifelong educator discovers AI—and finds herself all over again? In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, Michelle sits down with Diane Kjellgren, corporate trainer, former professor, and visual AI artist, to talk about how AI sparked a new creative chapter in midlife. From embracing Midjourney like a box of crayons to building tools that support neurodivergent learners, Diane’s story is a masterclass in possibility.Whether you’re just dipping a toe into generative tools or wondering how to build a business with purpose, Diane’s journey reminds us: it all starts with a question.Meet Our Guest:Diane Kjellgren is a corporate trainer and lifelong educator who’s passionate about reimagining learning, storytelling, and inclusion through the lens of AI. A member of communities like Secret AI Society, She Leads AI, and She is AI, Diane is building tools to support adults with autism, while rediscovering her own creative spark along the way.In This Episode:[00:02:00] From Class rooms to Executive Training—Diane’s journey through education[00:04:30] The first time Midjourney felt like opening a box of crayons[00:07:30] Why AI gave Diane a space to process emotions and explore humor[00:10:45] How Colombian folklore sparked a global storytelling challenge[00:13:00] Using AI to write business plans, solve problems, and ask better questions[00:16:20] Supporting neurodivergent learners with no-judgment AI tools[00:18:00] Building a program to prepare autistic adults for the workforce[00:23:30] Why career reinvention after 50 is actually an advantage[00:27:00] A call to educators: model AI, don’t fear it[00:30:15] The habit we don’t talk about in midlife reinvention[00:32:30] Diane’s challenge to listeners: Ask the question. Then build the answer.🌐 Explore more at: https://www.innovativeaistudio.com/podcast💬 Let’s connect:Tag @Michelle Muncy-Silva and @Empowered by AI to share your favorite takeaway from the episode.

Unlocking Canva's Full Potential: AI-Powered Design for Entrepreneurs with Katy Keene

2025-08-0538:09

What if Canva could do more than design social posts? In this powerhouse episode, Katy Keene, founder of Keen Lane Co and one of the first Canva Agency Partners in the U.S., takes us deep inside the overlooked AI magic already built into Canva. From creating an entire marketing suite in one file to automating branded content at scale, Katy shares how entrepreneurs can stop chasing shiny tools and start maximizing what they already have.Whether you’re a Canva newbie or a seasoned pro, this episode will have you rethinking how you organize, create, and scale your visual brand—without the tech overwhelm.Spoiler: Yes, Canva can even write your blog posts, build a quiz, and generate captioned videos. Mind blown? Ours too.👩‍💻 Guest Bio:Katy Keene is the founder of Keen Lane Co, a marketing operations consultancy helping businesses align people, process, and technology. As a Canva Agency Partner and She is AI Global Advisory Council Member, Katy blends strategic thinking with practical tech know-how to empower women-led brands and lean teams to work smarter—not harder.What We Cover in This Episode:[00:02:00] Katy’s path from corporate life to entrepreneurship and becoming a Canva Agency Partner[00:05:00] Why Canva’s hidden AI features are a game-changer for lean teams[00:06:30] Visual Suite 2.0: How to create an entire content campaign in one file[00:11:00] AI-powered writing and image generation—inside Canva![00:13:00] Designing with data: Spreadsheets + visuals = smarter content[00:15:00] Bulk updates, speaker image templates, and video workflows that save hours[00:21:00] Canva Code: How non-techies can build quizzes and micro tools[00:26:00] Strategy first: How Katy helps entrepreneurs align tools with real goals[00:30:00] Her #1 recommendation for getting started (and getting organized)[00:35:00] Productivity meets creativity—how to turn Canva into a system, not just a toolResources Mentioned:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katykeeneBlog article 'Use AI to Define Your Brand Voice in 5 Minutes Using Content You Already Have': https://www.keenelaneco.com/insights/use-ai-to-define-your-brand-voice-in-5-minutes-using-content-you-already-have Canva Workshop Registration (Aug 21st): https://www.keenelaneco.com/canva-training-registration (A 15% Discount for viewers, use code KLC15 at checkout )Canva Unlocked Workshop: A Deep Dive Into Smarter Marketing PlanningBuild smarter, faster marketing campaigns—without the overwhelm.This 90-minute live training shows you how to use Canva’s newest AI-powered features to plan, create, and manage marketing campaigns and content that saves time, cuts costs, and keeps your brand on track. Perfect for small teams, nonprofits, entrepreneurs,...

From Big Tech to AI Change Maker: Redefining Readiness with Dajana Achelpohl

2025-07-3125:34

Dajana Achelpohl is the founder of AI Change Maker, a former Google and PayPal leader who helps non-technical teams and solopreneurs build practical, purpose-driven AI strategies. And in this episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle talks with her about what most businesses get wrong when adopting AI—and how to do it right. Drawing on her experience at Google and PayPal, and her own missteps in early GenAI use, Dajana offers a fresh, non-hype approach to integrating AI. From defining what success actually looks like to building simple governance guardrails, this conversation is all about getting real with your strategy.⏱️ Episode Breakdown:[00:01:00] Dajana's background in big tech and the launch of AI Change Maker[00:02:00] Why AI is more than a tool—it reshapes decisions, roles, and workflows[00:04:30] The personal story of AI rollout failure and what it taught her[00:06:00] Getting certified in AI Governance—and what the rest of us can learn[00:08:30] Why AI governance isn’t a blocker—it’s a framework for confidence and clarity[00:10:30] The danger of skipping foundational steps in adoption[00:12:00] The missing KPI: What does success with AI really look like?[00:14:00] Mindset shifts for entrepreneurs: stop skipping the strategy[00:16:30] How to evaluate if a task is truly AI-ready[00:18:00] What successful teams and solopreneurs have in common[00:21:00] Why your first use case should be real, specific, and low-risk[00:23:00] The importance of hands-on experimentation and setting your own learning plan[00:24:00] Final advice: get curious, get dirty, and get goingDajana reminds us that being AI-ready isn’t about having the flashiest tools—it’s about building the right mindset, goals, and culture. Whether you’re a solopreneur or a team lead, you’ll walk away from this episode with a clearer sense of how to start smart. For more resources and to stay updated on future episodes, head to InnovativeAIStudio.com and sign up for exclusive downloads and event invites.

Guardrails, Gut Checks, and Girl Power: Privacy You Can Feel Good About

2025-07-2934:24

Merry Ellen Austin and Rachael Ormiston are the dynamic privacy duo at Osano—a B Corp helping businesses build trust through ethical data practices and accessible privacy solutions.In this episode of Empowered by AI, we get real about digital privacy in a conversation with two trailblazers from Osano. Merry Ellen and Rachael break down what it means to own your data, how to build ethical tech from the inside out, and why now is the moment for women to reshape the AI space. Expect a conversation that’s refreshingly candid, occasionally hilarious, and packed with insights you can act on today.⏱️ Episode Breakdown:[00:01:00] Meet Merry Ellen and Rachael, plus Osano’s mission and their unusual career paths[00:04:00] What empowerment in privacy and tech looks like—for women, by women[00:06:30] Accessibility in privacy conversations and designing with inclusion in mind[00:10:00] Gut checks, vulnerability, and how women can exercise data rights[00:13:00] Practical first steps: submitting subject access requests and reading privacy policies[00:17:00] Using AI without giving away your entire life story[00:18:00] Why bringing your full, weird self into tech matters (and builds better policy)[00:21:00] Global policy shifts that give us hope for more equitable data protections[00:24:00] How being a B Corp shapes Osano’s approach to transparency and inclusion[00:28:00] The AI arms race and what red flags women should watch for[00:30:00] Upcoming Osano virtual events, partnerships, and how to join the movement[00:31:00] The final challenge: pause before you click—and protect your future selfLaunching a start-up? Or just wondering what that cookie pop-up really means? This episode is your nudge to reclaim your power and rethink how you engage with your data. Resources mentioned - Podcast episode mentioned in this interview: The Privacy Insider with guest Carrie GoldbergBlog Post mentioned in this interview: What is a DSAR? A Complete Guide to Data Subject Access Requests Rapid Fire questions, Rach:• ai dog breed: border collie-golden retriever mix• death row meal? A really good seafood pasta ideally with lots of parmesan• current playlist for work or pump up song - listening to "ibiza beach vibes meets tropical house" or "80's / 90's soundtracks".• personality as a color: Blue. I love being the sea, or by a lake, and love the rain.• currently reading or fave podcast: I have 3 books on the go right now - audiobook: Blink 182 lead Mark Hoppus, Physical book - Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg and an e-book for my book club "the one" by John Marr. And fun fact- I have a book with me everywhere I go! See, we love books and learning around here!Rapid Fire Questions, Merry:ai dog breed: border collie golden retriever mix, no wonder we get along!!!!Death row meal: smashburger & shoestring fries with a chocolate malt

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