Episode 13

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Published on:

2nd Apr 2026

AI Without Women Is a Risk | Dr. Julia Stamm on Trust, Power, and Impact

What happens when the people building AI don’t reflect the people it impacts?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Julia Stamm, sociologist, founder of She Shapes AI, and global thought leader working at the intersection of technology, policy, and society.

We get into the real conversation most people are still avoiding. Who is building AI. Who is being left out. And why that gap is not just a diversity issue, but a systems-level risk.

If you’ve ever felt like the AI conversation wasn’t built for you, this episode will hit home.

[00:01:00]

Dr. Stamm introduces her background as a sociologist working across tech, policy, and innovation.

[00:02:00]

The conversation shifts to women in AI and why representation is not optional.

[00:03:00]

Key stat: women are three times more likely to build impact ventures. This changes how AI should be built.

[00:04:00]

Overview of She Shapes AI and the global awards recognizing women building in AI.

[00:06:00]

The larger mission: using AI to solve real societal problems, not just optimize business outputs.

[00:08:00]

Why a thoughtful approach to AI builds trust. And why that trust matters more than speed.

[00:09:00]

The danger of “rose-colored glasses” in AI. Critical thinking is an asset, not a blocker.

[00:10:00]

Trust gaps between leadership and teams. Also between men and women in AI adoption.

[00:11:00]

How to get involved with She Shapes AI and join the movement.

[00:12:00]

Future vision for the awards and ongoing global initiatives.

[00:13:00]

Closing reflections on leadership, responsibility, and shaping the future of AI.

AI is not neutral. It reflects the people building it.

If women are not in the room, the outcomes will not serve them. And that is not a future any of us should accept.

Dr. Stamm makes it clear. This is not about catching up. It is about stepping in and shaping what comes next.

If you are building something right now, you are already part of that shift.

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About the Podcast

Empowered by AI
Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way
Empowered by AI is the go-to podcast for women entrepreneurs and leaders who are ready to harness AI, no tech background required. Hosted by Michelle Muncy-Silva, founder of Innovative AI Studio and Executive Director of She Leads AI Academy, this show spotlights trailblazing women who are not just using AI; they're demanding a seat at the table in shaping it. From practical tools to ethical frameworks, every episode delivers real talk and actionable strategies for women building businesses and leading boldly in the age of AI. Whether you're automating your workflows, building a standout brand, or navigating the intersection of AI and equity, this is your community. Each episode features conversations with women at the forefront of AI and entrepreneurship, plus the tools, strategies, and stories you can put into practice immediately. We explore AI-enhanced storytelling, using AI to streamline and scale, and what it looks like when women lead the AI revolution on their own terms. Every episode ends with one question to our guests: What's next? Empowered by AI — your weekly dose of inspiration, strategy, and community. Hit subscribe and let's build the future together.

About your host

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Michelle Muncy-Silva

Michelle Muncy-Silva is an AI educator, innovator, and Executive Director of the She Leads AI Academy. She is also the founder of Data Parity AI and host of the Empowered by AI podcast. Her work helps educators, founders and institutions use AI with clarity, ethics, and purpose. With a background in curriculum design and human-centered data practices, Michelle makes emerging technologies practical and accessible for non-technical leaders.