Episode 11

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Published on:

25th Mar 2025

Click, Bait, and Secure: Cybersecurity in the Age of AI with Dawn Kristy

As AI tools become essential to how we work, create, and connect—cybersecurity can’t be an afterthought. In this episode of Empowered by AI: Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way, I’m joined by Dawn Kristy, cybersecurity expert and author of 33 Ways Not to Screw Up Cybersecurity.

From deepfakes to phishing emails powered by ChatGPT, we dig into the new reality of risk—and the smart, simple ways solopreneurs and small business owners can protect their work, data, and reputations without needing a technical background.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing enough to keep my business safe?”—this episode is your sign to listen in and level up.

[00:00] – Welcome & Introduction

Michelle opens the episode and introduces Dawn Kristy, cybersecurity expert and author.

[01:30] – Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever

Dawn shares how AI has changed the threat landscape—and why small businesses are increasingly being targeted.

[03:45] – Human Error & Habits: The #1 Threat

We talk about why most breaches come from user behavior, not complex hacking—and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

[06:00] – Deepfakes, Fake Zooms & AI-Powered Phishing

Dawn reveals some jaw-dropping new scams powered by AI, and how to spot them before it’s too late.

[08:20] – What Every Solopreneur Needs to Do First

Simple, powerful actions to improve your cybersecurity—without hiring a full tech team.

[11:00] – Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor: Yes, Still Necessary

Dawn explains why the basics matter and how to make security part of your workflow.

[14:00] – Cybersecurity for Content Creators & Coaches

Specific tips for entrepreneurs using AI to publish content, run memberships, or host client calls.

[17:30] – When to Bring in Help

Knowing when you can DIY your security—and when to consult an expert.

[20:00] – Ethics, AI, and Digital Responsibility

Why cybersecurity is a feminist issue, and how ethical awareness can build stronger businesses.

[23:00] – Dawn’s Final Advice: Stay Curious, Stay Cautious

Dawn shares her top 3 rules for staying secure in a rapidly evolving tech space.


Cybersecurity isn’t just a tech issue—it’s a leadership mindset. As AI becomes more powerful, so do the risks we face—but with experts like Dawn guiding the way, we can be both innovative and protected.

Take action, stay alert, and don’t wait until you’ve been hacked to take cybersecurity seriously. Start with the basics, build your awareness, and lead your business with confidence.

Ready to get more than just an episode? Head to innovativeaistudio.com/podcast and sign up for free tools that support what you learn in each show.

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About the Podcast

Empowered by AI
Women Entrepreneurs Leading the Way
Welcome to Empowered by AI, where women entrepreneurs harness the power of AI to transform their businesses, break new ground, and lead confidently. Hosted by Michelle Muncy-Silva, founder of Innovation AI Studios, this podcast is your go-to resource for stories, strategies, and tools that help women combine creativity with cutting-edge technology to build the brands of tomorrow.
In each episode, we sit down with trailblazing women who are not just embracing AI—they’re unapologetically ensuring a place at the table in leveraging AI to redefine their industries, spark innovation, and elevate their businesses. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, Empowered by AI delivers real talk and actionable insights from women who have been where you are, tackled the challenges, and demanded that AI be a tool for women’s progress.
This isn’t just a tech podcast—it’s a platform for women looking for like-minded collaboration and support to build standout brands, gain clarity on how AI serves their strategy, and discover the tools to take their businesses to the next level. We dive deep into topics like AI-enhanced storytelling, using AI to streamline and scale, and the future of creativity in a world where technology is rewriting the rules.
Join us for:
Conversations with women leaders at the forefront of AI and entrepreneurship.
Practical advice on how to integrate AI into your business, even if you’re not a tech expert.
The latest AI tools and resources you can use to build a brand that stands out.
Empowering stories from women who are balancing the demands of running a business with navigating the world of AI.
Each episode is packed with actionable takeaways that you can put into practice right away, whether you’re automating your workflows, enhancing your visual branding, or discovering the next big AI tool that will give your business a competitive edge.
We’ll talk about:
How AI and creativity collide to drive innovation.
The real-life stories of women paving the way in AI, who prove that you don’t need a tech background to master the future.
How AI can help you build a strong, memorable brand.
The AI tools every entrepreneur should have in their toolkit.
The power of mentorship, community, and women supporting women in the AI space.
Our goal? To empower you with the knowledge and tools to embrace AI confidently—no tech degree required—and inspire you with the voices of women who are actively participating in shaping the future of AI - all so we can collaboratively create AI-driven solutions that empower you to transform your business into something that not only thrives but leads the way in your industry.
Ready to take your business to the next level? Tune in, get inspired, and learn how to use AI to amplify your creativity, streamline your processes, and build a brand that’s not just innovative, but unstoppable.
And every episode ends with the same question to our amazing guests: What’s next?
Empowered by AI is more than just a podcast—it’s your community, your resource, and your weekly dose of inspiration to become a leader in the future of entrepreneurship.
Hit subscribe, and let’s transform your business together!

About your host

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Michelle Muncy-Silva