Episode 14

full
Published on:

5th Jun 2025

From Literacy to Fluency: Jennifer Ives on Leading with AI in a Fast-Moving World

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 strategy
  • 02:00 – From AI literacy to AI fluency: the shift leaders must make now
  • 03:30 – 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 instead
  • 06:30 – Solving problems before choosing tools: business-first thinking
  • 08:30 – AI readiness requires cultural readiness: leadership’s role in shaping AI culture
  • 10:30 – Why one-time AI training isn’t enough (and what to do instead)
  • 13:00 – Jennifer on curiosity, geospatial roots, and how she teaches herself
  • 15:00 – The power of community: how real learning happens
  • 17:00 – Why safe, inclusive spaces matter for learning and visibility
  • 19:30 – Generous knowledge-sharing and breaking down gatekeeping in AI
  • 21:00 – Scaling innovation through connection, not isolation
  • 23:00 – What the next 3-5 years hold for women in AI—and why now is the time to lead
  • 25:30 – Studies show women hesitate with AI tools—how we can change that
  • 28:00 – When women leave the AI conversation too early and what we lose
  • 30:00 – The need for diverse perspectives to shape what AI sees and does
  • 32:00 – 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 tech

Jennifer 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

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Empowered by AI

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

Profile picture for Michelle Muncy-Silva

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.