Afleveringen
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Susi O’Neill joins Michelle Muncy-Silva to explore what it means to evolve from a traditional media career into a human-first, AI-empowered content strategist. Her story of reinvention, agency, and experimentation offers inspiration for anyone navigating change in their creative or professional life.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro to Susi O’Neill and the pivot from Editor-in-Chief to AI consultant05:42 – The moment Susi realized it was time to leave corporate media**10:19 – Embracing uncertainty: experimenting with AI tools as a solopreneur15:04 – How AI helped Susi redefine her creative process**19:55 – Letting go of perfectionism in favor of curiosity and play24:11 – The human-first philosophy behind her AI approach**30:18 – On identity, visibility, and reconnecting with purpose**36:07 – The unique opportunity women have right now in the AI space**41:12 – What’s next for Susi and how she’s designing her futureSusi’s journey is a reminder that reinvention is not a failure—it's a bold reclaiming of creative agency. If this conversation resonated, don’t miss a future episode! Visit InnovativeAIStudio.com to sign up for updates and exclusive resources for women entrepreneurs using AI to lead the way.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva speaks with marketing powerhouse and AI strategist Pallavi Sharma. With a career spanning from GE to founding her own AI-driven marketing agency, Pallavi shares what it really means to be AI-ready, how entrepreneurs can collapse their marketing departments with automation, and why domain expertise—not just tool knowledge—is your true moat in the AI era.
Timestamps + Topics Covered
00:01:00 – Pallavi’s journey from corporate executive to AI entrepreneur00:02:30 – Using generative AI to collapse traditional marketing departments00:03:30 – What it means to be truly “AI-ready”00:05:00 – How corporate habits can block innovation and automation00:06:30 – The need for top-down AI leadership and team accountability00:09:00 – Use case: Building sales training and processes with AI00:10:30 – The biggest misconception: “I’m already using AI” vs. actual transformation00:12:00 – Gamma as a model for small teams doing big things with AI00:13:30 – Tools for solopreneurs: make.com, n8n, Zapier00:15:00 – SOPs, automation, and why you need to document your systems00:17:00 – Napkin.ai and the value of building in public00:19:00 – Book rec: Mastery by Robert Greene and the discipline of deep focus00:21:00 – Marketing habits AI will replace—and what we hope it never does00:23:00 – What’s next for Pallavi: podcast, book projects, and a mother–daughter creative collaboration00:25:00 – Where to connect: LinkedIn, witomni.com, and Your AI CMO podcastThis conversation with Pallavi Sharma reminds us that AI isn’t just a tool; it’s a mindset shift. From automation to human connection, the future of business is being rewritten in real time, and Pallavi is right at the center of it. Want to stay up to date on all Empowered by AI episodes?
Visit https://innovativeaistudio.com and sign up for updates, free resources, and more.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In today’s hyper-connected world, AI and cybersecurity are two sides of the same coin. In this compelling episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva sits down with Tracey Hawkins—aka "Tracey, the Safety Lady"—to talk about the crucial intersection of AI, human behavior, and digital protection. With over 30 years of experience in safety and security training, Tracey breaks down the real risks, dispels myths, and offers practical guidance for entrepreneurs and educators alike. Whether you're managing a team, protecting your family, or just trying to understand how AI tools are changing the game, this episode is your cybersecurity wake-up call.
Timestamps:
00:00 — Welcome and guest intro02:15 — Why cybersecurity is a people problem05:02 — What small business owners and entrepreneurs get wrong about security08:48 — The “one-click” crisis: real-world examples of costly mistakes12:30 — How AI changes the stakes: deepfakes, scams, and new attack vectors15:20 — Leading with safety: why security is your brand’s best differentiator19:05 — Psychological safety and training that actually sticks22:15 — What Tracey teaches kids about AI and ethical tech use25:30 — Building a smarter AI-powered world through community and education28:45 — What entrepreneurs must do now to stay protected32:10 — Tracey’s advice for women entering the AI conversation34:30 — What's next for Tracey and KC AI Club36:00 — Final thoughts and wrap-upTracey reminds us that AI may be advanced, but safety still starts with people. From ethical tech use to everyday precautions, this conversation is full of empowering and actionable advice. Don’t wait until after a breach—tune in now to stay ahead of the curve. For more episodes and to sign up for alerts, visit InnovativeAIStudio.com and subscribe to stay connected.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI: Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way, host Michelle Muncy-Silva sits down with Jess Hall, product strategist at OpsCanvas and expert in AI use case prototyping. Jess shares candid insights on how entrepreneurs and teams can move from overthinking to actionable iteration using AI. If you’ve ever hesitated to start building with AI because the vision wasn’t clear enough—this conversation is your blueprint for getting unstuck. Discover why success comes from experimenting with the small things first, how language is the new interface, and why AI implementation should always reconnect to human needs.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & Jess's background: From product strategy to AI use cases04:15 – Why “version one” doesn’t need to be perfect07:45 – The importance of reconnecting to conceptual thinking in an AI age11:30 – Prototyping your way to clarity: the OpsCanvas approach16:00 – Key AI use case patterns emerging across industries20:20 – How to evaluate which use cases are worth pursuing25:10 – The mindset shift: It's okay to learn in public30:00 – Language as the new interface: what this means for business tools35:20 – Empowering teams through curiosity and structure40:00 – Advice for entrepreneurs just getting started with AI42:30 – What’s next for Jess Hall and OpsCanvasThis episode is your reminder that AI innovation starts with brave first steps, not perfect plans. Jess Hall shares the mindset and tactics that allow entrepreneurs and teams to iterate with purpose. Be sure to follow Jess and explore her work at OpsCanvas.
👉 Want more episodes like this delivered to your inbox? Visit InnovativeAIStudio.com and sign up for updates, tools, and exclusive content for women using AI to build boldly.
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Welcome back to Empowered by AI, where women entrepreneurs come to spark ideas, build confidence, and redefine what's possible with AI. In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Reedie—creative consultant, mentor, and AI ambassador—to talk about creative courage, authentic branding, and the real role AI can play in your marketing strategy.
⏱️ Timestamps & Topics[00:01:00] Jennifer’s creative background: from ad agency exec to solo consultant[00:02:30] Her current AI work with small businesses, agencies, and global communities like She Is AI and Luma AI[00:03:30] Advice for getting started with AI tools—why ChatGPT is the “gateway”[00:05:30] Maintaining brand authenticity while using generative AI[00:07:00] How to use AI as a “possibility starter” instead of a crutch[00:08:00] Shifting AI from novelty to practical support in strategy, research, and messaging[00:09:00] Addressing fears around AI: it’s a tool, not a takeover[00:10:00] Lessons from photography and Photoshop: how creatives adapt[00:12:00] The Kodak cautionary tale—evolution requires adoption[00:13:30] Keeping humans as the stewards of meaning and emotional connection[00:14:30] Practical AI tips for workflow automation and scaling with intention[00:15:30] Advice for women mentors and creative leaders stepping into the AI space[00:16:30] How to connect with Jennifer and her communitiesJennifer reminds us that creativity isn't being replaced—it's being reimagined. Whether you're hesitant to try AI or already exploring it, this episode is full of actionable advice and encouragement to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
👉 Ready for more tools and episodes like this? Visit InnovativeAIStudio.com and sign up to get updates, resources, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
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In this thought-provoking Season 4 premiere, host Michelle Muncy-Silva sits down with Kim Sayre, a photographer whose journey into AI-powered creativity invites a new conversation around self-image, visual branding, and artistic control. Whether you're a solopreneur looking to elevate your brand or a creative struggling to keep up with AI tools, Kim’s reflections on identity, representation, and authenticity will spark fresh ideas. We explore how AI is transforming branding for women entrepreneurs—one visual story at a time.
00:00 – Meet Kim Sayre
06:25 – AI and the Evolution of Visual Identity
10:18 – The Artist’s Inner Critic & AI as Collaborator
14:02 – Practical Tips for Creatives Curious About AI
18:49 – Reimagining the Client Relationship
23:33 – What AI Reveals About Branding as a Woman
28:47 – Final Reflections & “What’s Next?”
If you’ve ever wondered how to blend authenticity with innovation in your visual branding, this episode is for you. Kim’s perspective challenges us to think beyond headshots and logos—to use AI not just to stand out, but to show up more truthfully. For more conversations like this, head to www.innovativeaistudio.com and sign up for updates so you never miss an episode.
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In this transformative episode of Empowered by AI, we welcome Michelle Ament, a visionary in education leadership, the Chief Academic Officer at ProSolve and the Co-President of The Human Intelligence Movement.
Michelle shares how her work at the intersection of education, leadership, and AI is redefining what it means to prepare the next generation, not just to adapt to the future, but to shape it. We discuss why AI literacy is not enough, the urgent need to center human intelligence in our systems, and how women can reclaim their voices in the AI revolution. This episode is a must-listen for educators, change agents, and entrepreneurs looking to build ethical, human-centered frameworks for innovation in an AI-powered world.
⏱️ Timestamped Episode Highlights:00:02:35 – Michelle’s spark: curiosity, connection, and the purpose of education
00:06:48 – From leader to learner: rethinking educational leadership in an AI age
00:10:15 – Human intelligence vs. artificial intelligence: complementary, not competitive
00:13:40 – What’s broken in current education models—and how AI could help
00:18:25 – A call for systems built around adaptability, not rigidity
00:22:58 – Creating courageous spaces for students and teachers
00:27:16 – The mindset shift needed for AI literacy and human capacity-building
00:32:10 – “Unlearning” as a tool for transformation
00:36:45 – The future of personalized learning with ethical AI integration
00:40:12 – Michelle’s dream for the next generation of education leaders
00:45:03 – What’s next for Michelle and The Human Intelligence Movement
Michelle Ament brings both empathy and strategy to the table as she encourages us to think bigger, not just about what we can do with AI, but about who we can become with it. This episode will shift your thinking about education, innovation, and the power of human intelligence to drive lasting, ethical change.
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How can entrepreneurs embrace the power of AI without compromising their values—or their sanity? In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Marcia Narine Weldon: lawyer, ethics professor, AI governance expert, and a fierce advocate for mental wellness in tech. Marcia dives deep into how solopreneurs and small business owners can approach ethical AI use, balance innovation with integrity, and build resilience in a world that won’t stop accelerating.
From her EDGE framework to a powerful AI bias-testing prompt list, Marcia equips listeners with practical tools to build sustainable, responsible businesses, without burnout.
Timestamps & Topics Covered:
00:00 – Intro & Marcia’s Multihyphenate Background01:00 – How She Got Started in Generative AI02:00 – What Ethical AI Means for Small Business Owners04:00 – Marcia’s EDGE Framework (End Goal, Data, Governance, Ethical Impact)06:00 – Using Design Thinking to Bake Ethics into Innovation07:00 – The Mental Health Cost of AI Adoption10:00 – Prompts to Uncover Bias and Build Better AI Inputs12:00 – Creating an AI Rubric for Your Business14:00 – Building AI Literacy as a Solopreneur15:30 – The Human Skills Every Entrepreneur Needs in an AI World16:30 – AI Readiness: A Practical Gap Assessment18:00 – Trusted Communities & Ongoing Resources20:00 – Collaboration Over Competition21:00 – What’s Next: AI in Employment Law & Global EthicsMarcia reminds us that ethical AI use isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. By building frameworks, asking better questions, and showing up in community, women entrepreneurs can lead the way in creating AI-infused businesses that are both impactful and human-centered.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle speaks with Jennifer Ives, Vice President of Artificial Intelligence at the Partnership for Public Service and a long-time leader in AI strategy, innovation, and executive growth. With experience spanning geospatial engineering, data-rich SaaS companies, and founding her own AI company, Jennifer brings deep clarity to what leaders—especially women—need in order to confidently guide their teams and businesses in the age of AI.
Together, they explore the difference between access and implementation, the cultural shifts required to sustain innovation, and the powerful role that community plays in building AI fluency. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or leading a global organization, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to build thoughtfully, lead strategically, and step into the AI conversation with clarity.
Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn and learn more about her work at https://aicenterforgovernment.org/
Timestamps:
00:00 – Jennifer’s background: engineering, startups, global growth, and AI strategy02:00 – From AI literacy to AI fluency: the shift leaders must make now03:30 – The biggest myths about AI (Hint: it’s not magic or pixie dust!)05:00 – Why “sprinkling AI” doesn’t work—and what to do instead06:30 – Solving problems before choosing tools: business-first thinking08:30 – AI readiness requires cultural readiness: leadership’s role in shaping AI culture10:30 – Why one-time AI training isn’t enough (and what to do instead)13:00 – Jennifer on curiosity, geospatial roots, and how she teaches herself15:00 – The power of community: how real learning happens17:00 – Why safe, inclusive spaces matter for learning and visibility19:30 – Generous knowledge-sharing and breaking down gatekeeping in AI21:00 – Scaling innovation through connection, not isolation23:00 – What the next 3-5 years hold for women in AI—and why now is the time to lead25:30 – Studies show women hesitate with AI tools—how we can change that28:00 – When women leave the AI conversation too early and what we lose30:00 – The need for diverse perspectives to shape what AI sees and does32:00 – Concrete tools: how to start learning (even if you’re already overwhelmed)35:00 – What’s next: her work with the AI Center for Government and advocating for women in techJennifer Ives reminds us that being fluent in AI isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about staying curious, connected, and committed to growth. From scaling startups to advising boards and building public sector leadership pipelines, she’s helping redefine what it means to lead in an AI-powered world.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, Jennifer offers a clear, grounded path to building confidence and community with AI.
🎧 Listen to more episodes at innovativeaistudio.com/podcast
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle sits down with award-winning AI artist and filmmaker Kimberly Offord, the visionary behind PlaygroundPastime.ai. Kimberly shares how her journey from real estate to creative direction led to viral visuals, groundbreaking short films, and the creation of her very own AI film contest.
Kimberly’s mission is clear: to reimagine how underrepresented voices are seen in the AI space—because the way we teach AI to see us will define the future of storytelling. We discuss prompting with purpose, the power of emotional imagery, launching a global AI film competition, and how her AI music video for Grammy-nominated artist Lalah Hathaway became a breakthrough moment for AI-generated film.
This episode is a call to action: create anyway, tell your story, and prompt what you want to see.
🌐 Explore her work: https://playgroundpastime.ai
Timestamps:
00:00 – Kimberly’s backstory: real estate, creative marketing, and her first AI leap04:00 – Midjourney & Runway: from brand visuals to cinematic world-building06:30 – What Playground Pastime means and why imagination needs protection08:00 – How nostalgic imagery and childhood wonder inspire her work10:00 – Bias in AI imagery: why size, disability, and nuance still don’t show up12:00 – Prompting with persistence: how to push AI to reflect reality15:00 – Behind the scenes of “Tunnels,” her official AI music video for Lalah Hathaway18:30 – Creating soulful visuals with small teams and honest storytelling20:00 – Using AI film as a starting point for bigger, live-action collaborations22:00 – The origin of the Playground Pastime AI Film Contest—and why it’s needed24:00 – Stories emerging from the contest: from comedy to intergenerational memory26:00 – How to watch the replay and support the featured creators28:00 – Advocating for inclusion in AI: what platforms still get wrong30:00 – Weird mode, creative partner feedback, and the hidden biases of Midjourney32:00 – Advice to creators from marginalized communities: do it anyway34:00 – The legacy she’s building—and how AI lets you paint what you’ve always imagined37:00 – What’s next: Season 2 of the contest, a live theater premiere, and the Chicago AI Film FestivalKimberly Offord is showing us what it means to lead creatively, persistently, and inclusively. Her work at PlaygroundPastime.ai proves that AI storytelling doesn’t have to come from big teams or technical mastery—it can come from one voice, one vision, and one powerful prompt.
If you’re building a brand, telling a story, or dreaming of a world that reflects you, this episode will meet you right where you are—and challenge you to build what’s missing.
🎧 More episodes + tools: innovativeaistudio.com/podcast
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In this powerful and joyfully candid episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle speaks with Halima Muhammad, Creative Director, AI artist, and founder of halimamuhammad.com, about what it means to reimagine your identity—and your career—through AI-driven creativity. Halima shares how losing a job and facing personal burnout led to a breakthrough that transformed her into a sought-after digital artist and coach for women creatives.
Drawing on inspiration from Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz and her own lived experience, Halima opens up about AI as a tool for emotional healing, artistic expression, and legacy building. From AI brand visuals to virtual assistants to her "visual drops" for non-creatives, she reminds us: your story, your culture, and your magic all belong in the AI space.
🔗 Explore her work and creative services: https://halimamuhammad.com
Timestamps:
00:00 – From layoff to liftoff: Halima’s journey to AI artistry03:00 – Secret AI Society and the creative spark that changed everything04:30 – Gallery breakthroughs, healing through art, and trusting the leap06:00 – Branding with AI as a form of inner child expression08:00 – AI as an extension of consciousness, not just a tool09:00 – Journaling + ChatGPT + Midjourney = her creative process11:00 – Why solopreneurs need automation (and how to start affordably)13:30 – Virtual assistants and AI agents: when, why, and how15:30 – The myth of “free time” and the creative floodgates17:00 – Self-care, sacred Sundays, and creative boundaries19:30 – What high-level brand work has in common with solopreneurs21:00 – The importance of brand alignment and avoiding “brand shame”22:00 – Reflections on Psycho-Cybernetics: AI, self-image, and transformation25:00 – Culture, femininity, and deeply personal image-making28:30 – Breaking AI bias through persistence and intention31:00 – Iteration as empowerment: “I break it until it gives me what I want.”33:00 – Starting small: using iconic prompts to get creative35:00 – Where to find Halima’s work, ebook, and “visual drop” subscription37:00 – What’s next: film pilots, AI literacy for kids, and luxury art toursHalima Muhammad reminds us that AI isn't just for coders—it's for the curious, the creative, and the courageous. Whether you’re designing brand visuals, healing through art, or just learning to play again, AI can amplify your story when you lead with intention. Check out Halima’s ebook Let There Be Light, subscribe to her Visual Drop, and follow her journey at halimamuhammad.com.
🎧 For more empowering stories and free tools, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, we welcome Trudy-Ann Armand—a corporate learning strategist, AI enthusiast, and the visionary behind Her-Mine.ai. Trudy shares her deeply personal journey of navigating burnout, rediscovering her voice through experimentation with AI, and ultimately building a space that helps women feel confident exploring emerging tech. With a background in enterprise learning systems and a passion for community-centered leadership, Trudy offers both emotional resonance and tactical tools to help solo entrepreneurs move from fear to fluency.
If you’ve ever asked, “Where do I even start with AI?”—this episode is for you.
🔗 Visit Trudy’s work: https://her-mine.ai
Timestamps:
00:00 – Meet Trudy: From burnout to brave experimentation02:45 – Her early resistance to AI—and what changed05:15 – How AI helped her reconnect to purpose after disillusionment07:30 – Finding flow through tools like ChatGPT and Mindgrasp09:50 – Building confidence and momentum by treating AI like a creative partner12:20 – What Her-Mine.ai is really about: permission to be curious14:40 – Supporting women with “safe to brave” frameworks17:10 – Advice for solo entrepreneurs: Why starting messy is better than not starting19:00 – The emotional labor of learning something new, and how to support yourself22:00 – Reframing AI from productivity tool to confidence amplifier25:15 – Trudy’s favorite low-stress AI tools for content creation and reflection27:00 – How to recognize your own growth—and know when to ask for help30:00 – What’s next for Trudy and Her-Mine.aiTrudy-Ann Armand reminds us that AI isn’t just about optimization—it’s about ownership. Her work at Her-Mine.ai offers women a brave, welcoming space to explore emerging technologies without pressure or perfectionism. Whether you’re burned out or just beginning to experiment, this episode invites you to treat AI not as a threat—but as a thought partner in your reinvention.
🎧 For more episodes and free tools, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast.
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In this powerful episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle Muncy-Silva sits down with digital artist, animator, and educator Lynda Cathcart, a woman who reclaimed her creativity after decades of full-time caregiving. Lynda shares how AI became the unexpected key to reigniting her passion for storytelling, reimagining history, and launching a second act that’s as bold as it is beautiful.
From founding an AI-powered fine art studio to building persona-based business strategies with Manus, Lynda discusses how AI can be a deeply personal and profoundly creative partner. Her work doesn’t follow trends—it reshapes what’s possible.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Lynda’s backstory: From caregiving to creative rediscovery02:00 – The moment she remembered what she loved: Paint-by-numbers and old movies03:30 – Rebellion through creativity: Doing what lights you up (not what pleases others)05:00 – Entering AI through community: Secret AI Society & the power of safe experimentation07:00 – Storytelling through AI: Time-traveling through art, fashion, and forgotten narratives10:00 – Why AI removes barriers for artists and opens creative possibilities13:00 – On women’s representation in AI-generated art—and how we can reshape it15:30 – Visibility, diversity, and populating the internet with more inclusive imagery18:00 – Teaching others to use AI for creative expression and branding20:30 – Empowerment through AI: Why it’s not too late to start over23:30 – Lynda’s approach to teaching: Accessibility, encouragement, and skill-building25:00 – Microcourses, workshops, and using Manus for business planning28:00 – Creating an AI-powered persona steering committee for artistic strategy30:00 – New ventures: Launching an AI film company and showing art in New York32:00 – Emotional load, motherhood, and the healing journey of creative rediscovery35:00 – What’s next for Lynda: 3D social spaces, film festivals, and gallery exhibitionsLynda Cathcart reminds us that it’s never too late to reclaim your voice, your vision, or your creative calling. Through art, AI, and honest reflection, she’s helping redefine what it means to be an artist, a teacher, and a woman who dares to begin again.
Discover her artwork, workshops, and microcourses at www.lyndacathcart.com
For more empowering stories like this, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast, subscribe, and explore free tools to jumpstart your own AI-enhanced journey.
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In this deeply moving episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva is joined by Dr. Flory Stefanescu, former political refugee, holistic doctor, and creator of the custom GPT tool InnerHue. Flory shares her remarkable story of resilience, from surviving political imprisonment in communist Romania to rebuilding her life through medicine, music, and ultimately, AI. After years of chronic illness and emotional isolation, Flory discovered AI not as a productivity tool, but as a mirror for emotional healing and reinvention.
Through AI tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney, she found new ways to explore her inner world, and eventually created InnerHue—a gentle custom GPT designed to help others visualize their emotions and reconnect with themselves through expressive imagery.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Flory’s powerful backstory: political exile, silence, survival03:00 – Discovering the freedom to study and speak in the U.S.04:45 – From acupuncture to illness: when the healer becomes the one in need06:00 – Eight years of pain, disconnection, and the turning point: a post from Tony Robbins07:30 – First encounter with ChatGPT: “It listened. It didn’t judge.”08:30 – Finding healing through image creation, connection, and AI companionship09:30 – Creating InnerHue: A custom GPT that helps you feel, see, and process emotion11:30 – How InnerHue works: from emotion to color, image, and healing insight13:30 – The emotional toll of absorbing others’ energy—and how InnerHue helps release it15:00 – Why visual expression is more than art—it’s energetic medicine17:00 – AI as a mirror: reflecting back the unseen parts of ourselves18:30 – Empowering women through emotional clarity, creativity, and reinvention20:00 – What’s next for Flory: children’s books on nutrition, healing, and the environment22:00 – Final reflections: You are not too late. You still have something to give.Dr. Flory Stefanescu’s journey reminds us that AI isn’t just a tool for building businesses—it can be a deeply personal ally in healing, self-reflection, and creative rebirth. Her InnerHue GPT invites women to step into emotional clarity and express their truths through visual language, especially after seasons of burnout, silence, or invisibility.
✨ Try InnerHue today: florentina-studio.kit.com/8c411bed54
🔗 Connect with Flory on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drflorystefanescu
To hear more stories like Flory’s and tools that empower women entrepreneurs, visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast and subscribe.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle Muncy-Silva speaks with Kinga Vajda, founder of Execute Your Intentions, about how agile project management principles—originally built for the tech world—can transform how solo entrepreneurs build sustainable, human-centered businesses. Kinga shares how pressure-testing ideas, minimizing decision fatigue, and embracing community collaboration can create a self-organizing system for success. With a heart-forward mindset and a deep belief in intentional leadership, Kinga offers guidance on how to stay aligned, innovative, and resilient in the age of AI.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introducing Kinga V & the concept of agile project management for solo entrepreneurs01:30 – Merging Agile with PMI and Kinga’s 25-year journey in tech03:00 – Pressure-testing ideas and studying problems like a work of art04:30 – Using ChatGPT to break through bias and see from different perspectives06:30 – Data mining, decision fatigue, and how AI helps organize complexity08:00 – Maslow’s 2.0: Societal needs and the entrepreneur’s sense of safety09:30 – Menu fatigue and how overchoice impacts productivity11:00 – Building businesses like homes: Foundation, framework, flexibility14:00 – Artificial walls, innovation resistance, and re-architecting with AI16:00 – Mindset as the key to navigating change18:00 – Training AI through diverse perspectives and intention20:00 – Community, empathy, and three-legged race leadership22:00 – How Kinga defines meaningful connection and safe collaboration24:00 – Why She Leads AI is a standout community for women in tech and beyond26:00 – Opportunities for women entrepreneurs right now in the AI space28:00 – From resistance to resonance: Collaboration over control29:30 – Kinga’s #1 recommendation for long-range adaptability31:00 – Where to connect with Kinga and her workKinga V’s perspective bridges the structured world of agile systems with the soulful approach of empathetic leadership. Her guidance reminds us that adaptability doesn’t mean abandoning structure; it means creating space for intentional reinvention. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by decision fatigue or craving stronger community ties, this episode offers a refreshing blend of practicality and purpose. Catch more inspiring episodes at innovativeaistudio.com/podcast and be sure to explore Kinga’s work at executeyourintentions.com. Let’s keep leading with heart in the age of AI.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva welcomes business strategist and coach Rachel Zipsie for a powerful conversation about using generative AI, specifically Manus, to spark creativity, streamline business growth, and build authentic strategy. Rachel shares how she transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurship, how AI helped her fast-track product development, land clients jobs, publish her first book (Moments of Grace), and build efficient systems for both her own brands and the businesses she supports. Whether you're new to AI or exploring ways to scale your creativity and impact, this episode is full of actionable insights for women-led businesses.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome + Rachel’s first-ever podcast appearance!01:15 – Rachel’s entrepreneurial journey: From corporate exit to multisector impact03:00 – Integrating AI in consulting, strategy, and client support04:15 – How Manus changed everything for Rachel06:30 – Real-world use cases: From book publishing to software roadmap acceleration09:00 – Creative freedom and letting AI handle the planning10:45 – Writing and launching Moments of Grace with Manus13:30 – Turning personal writing into a published project with AI15:00 – Helping a peer land a job: Resume, LinkedIn, interview prep via AI17:15 – Roleplay simulation and personalized interview strategy18:30 – Avoiding analysis paralysis with strategic AI outputs21:00 – The Manus-powered marketing dashboard and notetaking hack25:00 – Creativity meets accountability with iterative prompts27:30 – Prompting with ease: Rachel’s informal but powerful process29:00 – Her advice to small business owners using AI: Crawl, walk, then run31:00 – When to bring in an AI consultant and how to maximize ROI32:30 – What’s next: Teaching, writing, community learning, and Odin’s Heart34:00 – How to connect with Rachel + Substack linkRachel Zipsie’s story is a vivid reminder of how AI can become not just a productivity tool, but a true co-creator. From launching books to building software and empowering job seekers, she shows us what’s possible when we pair human experience with AI-enhanced strategy. Dive deeper into this episode and more by subscribing to Empowered by AI and visiting innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for free tools, resources, and insights. Don’t forget to explore Rachel’s writing at her Substack, Pathways and Possibilities: pausecommitrise.substack.com. Until next time—stay empowered and keep innovating
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In this special roundtable episode of Empowered by AI, Michelle Muncy-Silva is joined by Michelle Pontes and Deanna Leonard for a bold and honest conversation about AI, burnout, boundaries, and what it really means to build with purpose in the age of algorithms. Together, they explore the emotional and intellectual realities of integrating AI into work and creativity—without losing your humanity.
This isn't a hype fest. It’s a thoughtful counterpoint to the AI gold rush. And it’s a reminder that reclaiming our time, voice, and impact starts with choosing how and why we use AI in the first place.
Time-Stamped Key Moments:
[00:01:00] – The quote that sparked it all: “Great designers who embrace AI will replace those who don’t”
[00:03:00] – Why AI isn't just another tech wave—it’s redefining everything
[00:06:00] – The emotional breakthroughs AI can unlock for women
[00:10:00] – Dopamine and dependency: are we outsourcing too much of our joy?
[00:14:00] – Raising kids in the AI era: when to encourage, and when to pause
[00:18:00] – The generational shift: how Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z differ in their approach to AI
[00:22:00] – You can’t (and shouldn’t) do it all: the myth of AI-powered superhuman productivity
[00:25:00] – Reclaiming workflows that actually work for women
[00:28:00] – The value of starting with your life before choosing your AI tools
[00:30:00] – From overproducing to thoughtful strategy: why intent matters now more than ever
[00:32:00] – A collective call to action: shape the future before it shapes us
This episode is a pause. A deep breath. A reminder that we get to decide what kind of AI-powered world we want to build—and that women deserve to lead that conversation. Subscribe to Empowered by AI for more counter-narratives and practical tools that center humanity in tech. Visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for more.
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In this powerful episode of Empowered by AI, we sit down with H. Titilola, a Nigerian-based AI ethicist and philosopher, whose work focuses on bringing ethical awareness into AI design, usage, and education. With a background in philosophy, bioethics, and a relentless commitment to inclusion, Titilola breaks down why AI ethics isn't just for tech giants—it's a conversation every entrepreneur, solopreneur, and creative needs to join.
If you’re a woman in business navigating the fast-paced world of AI, this episode will show you how to lead responsibly, advocate boldly, and innovate with integrity.
⏱️ Time-Stamped Highlights00:00 — Introduction & Welcome
Meet your host, Michelle Muncy Silva, and guest H. Titilola. Learn how Titilola's journey in philosophy and bioethics led her to the AI ethics space.
02:00 — Why AI Ethics Matters for Everyday Business Owners
The real-world implications of AI decisions—from filtering resumes to automated decisions without transparency.
05:00 — How Gender Bias Manifests in AI
Titilola unpacks how existing societal biases are baked into AI—and what this means for women entrepreneurs seeking funding or visibility.
08:00 — Building and Belonging in Women-Led AI Communities
Discover the work being done by Women in AI Africa and Women in AI Ethics. Plus, the importance of inclusive representation in academia and beyond.
12:00 — Breaking the “STEM-only” Myth
Why the arts and humanities are crucial to shaping the future of AI—and how women from all backgrounds can contribute.
15:00 — Examples of Ethical AI in Action
From African universities to Microsoft’s green AI initiatives, Titilola shares who’s getting it right.
17:00 — What Entrepreneurs Must Know Now
AI literacy, transparency, and human oversight—your ethical AI starter kit as a woman in business.
22:00 — Debunking Common Misconceptions
No, ethics doesn't stifle innovation. And no, AI isn't inherently smarter than you.
24:00 — Where to Learn Ethical AI—Accessible Resources
UNESCO, AIIOE, Commonwealth of Learning, and more platforms where you can start learning today.
26:00 — Two Questions We’re Not Asking Enough
What's the environmental cost of AI?
How do we enforce ethical regulations?
29:00 — What’s Next for H. Titilola
From a student training initiative to a global research proposal, learn what this AI ethics leader is working on next.
30:00 — Final Thoughts + Call to Action
How you can start putting ethical AI into practice right now.
Ethical AI isn’t a future issue—it’s a right now priority. As H. Titilola so powerfully shared, responsibility, transparency, and inclusion must be built into the way we use and shape AI tools in our businesses and daily lives. Whether you're a solopreneur, educator, or creative innovator, understanding the ethics of AI is one of the most important steps you can take to lead with integrity in the digital age.
💡 Ready to keep learning and growing?
👉 Visit innovativeaistudio.com/podcast for more inspiring episodes featuring women entrepreneurs transforming business with AI.
While you’re there, sign up for updates, free tools, and exclusive resources to help you use AI with confidence and creativity.
Let’s stay empowered—together.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva speaks with Jennifer Michtavy, a creative AI technologist and product strategist helping entrepreneurs rethink work by designing smart, human-first AI workflows. Jennifer shares her journey from science to creative innovation, and how she now helps others break out of burnout culture and into a future where delegation, automation, and curiosity are key to success.
Whether you’re job hunting, building a business, or reimagining your day-to-day, this episode offers real strategies to start designing your own AI-assisted worklife.
Time-Stamped Highlights:
[00:02:00] – From molecular biology to AI workflows: Jennifer’s career pivot
[00:03:00] – Why women hesitate to own their innovation—and how to shift that
[00:06:00] – The double barrier: being early to AI and being a woman
[00:09:00] – Reframing productivity: from hustle to high-impact delegation
[00:13:00] – Jennifer’s go-to method: reverse-engineering ideas with ChatGPT
[00:17:00] – Why outcome-based pricing is the future of work
[00:22:00] – The solopreneur advantage: fewer barriers, faster ideas
[00:26:00] – AI and the future of education: ask better questions, unlock new paths
[00:29:00] – The automation mindset: where to start (and what to let go of)
[00:33:00] – Why passion needs support systems—and how AI can help you get there
Jennifer reminds us that we don’t have to do it all ourselves. From building smarter workflows to challenging inherited definitions of productivity, AI is the tool that lets us amplify what we do best—and let go of the rest.
Subscribe to Empowered by AI for more conversations like this, and grab free resources to support your journey at innovativeaistudio.com/podcast.
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In this episode of Empowered by AI, host Michelle Muncy-Silva speaks with educator, consultant, and AI skills advocate Jessica Wynter Martin about how AI is reshaping the workforce—and how women can leverage it to future-proof their careers. Whether you're job searching, transitioning careers, or simply looking to upskill, Jessica shares real-world, actionable insights for thriving in today's rapidly evolving landscape.
Time-Stamped Key Moments:
[00:01:00] — Jessica’s journey from global educator to AI consultant for seasoned professionals
[00:04:00] — Why AI is urgent for entrepreneurs and small business owners right now
[00:06:00] — How to logically and purposefully integrate AI into your daily workflows
[00:10:00] — Jessica’s breakdown: which AI tools to use for which tasks
[00:14:00] — The secret to learning AI faster (hint: it’s not perfection—it’s curiosity)
[00:16:00] — Upskilling with AI: Why women are positioned to lead in the new economy
[00:18:00] — How to explore AI without tech overwhelm
[00:22:00] — Real talk: the emotional side of career pivots and AI adoption
[00:29:00] — AI as the great amplifier of human skills—not a replacement
[00:36:00] — Jessica’s favorite tool to start with today (and how it can streamline your work immediately)
[00:38:00] — Where to connect with Jessica Wynter Martin and continue the conversation
Jessica Wynter Martin reminds us that in a world of rapid change, intellectual curiosity is your greatest career asset. Whether you’re job hunting, pivoting, or preparing to future-proof your skills, there’s no better time to step into the AI era with intention and confidence.
Want to keep learning? Visit Jessica on LinkedIn and go to innovativeaistudio.com/podcast and sign up for updates on new episodes, tools, and community events!
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