Sophie Musumeci of Real Entrepreneur Women On How Artificial Intelligence Can Solve Business…

Sophie Musumeci of Real Entrepreneur Women On How Artificial Intelligence Can Solve Business Problems

An Interview With Chad Silverstein

When businesses leverage AI for efficiency, they free up more time and resources to give back, whether that’s supporting causes, mentoring others, or creating more accessible services for a wider audience.

In today’s tech-driven world, artificial intelligence has become a key enabler of business success. But the question remains — how can businesses effectively harness AI to address their unique challenges while staying true to ethical principles? To explore this topic further, we are interviewing Sophie Musumeci.

Sophie Musumeci is an award-winning entrepreneur, leadership and change management expert, and speaker. She is the founder of Real Entrepreneur Women, a multimillion-dollar organization that helped over 1,000 women find their purpose, and turn their calling into a profitable business. The Australian National Parliament mentioned Sophie several times, recognizing her work with entrepreneur women.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path in AI?

My journey into AI wasn’t a straight path — it was born out of necessity. As the founder of Real Entrepreneur Women, I’ve spent years helping female coaches build sustainable businesses, and one of the biggest challenges I saw was time — there was never enough of it. Coaches were burning out trying to do everything manually — marketing, sales, client management — while still delivering transformational results.

I’ve always believed in working smarter, not harder. So, when AI tools started emerging, I saw the opportunity to leverage them in a way that supported women in business rather than replacing human connection. At first, I was skeptical — AI felt overwhelming, and I didn’t want to lose the authenticity that makes coaching so powerful. But once I started testing and integrating AI strategically — whether for streamlining content creation, automating lead generation, or enhancing the client experience — it became clear that AI wasn’t about replacing the personal touch; it was about amplifying it.

That’s what led to the development of Skye, our AI coach designed specifically for female coaches and consultants. My goal has always been to empower women to scale their businesses without sacrificing their freedom, and AI has become a key tool in making that possible. It’s not about jumping on the latest tech trend — it’s about using AI in a way that aligns with our values, enhances human connection, and ultimately allows more women to rise in business.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started working with artificial intelligence?

One of the most interesting things about working with AI is how the opportunities just keep unfolding in ways I never expected. When we first started integrating AI into our business, it was purely about efficiency — streamlining content creation, automating tasks, and freeing up more time for connection. But the real magic happened when I realized AI wasn’t just a backend tool; it could actually enhance the coaching experience itself.

A great example of this was when we introduced Skye, our AI-powered coaching assistant. Initially, it was meant to help with answering common questions and guiding female coaches through foundational business strategies. But the moment we started testing it, something incredible happened — our clients started using it in ways we hadn’t even anticipated. One woman told me that Skye gave her the confidence to take action on something she had been stuck on for months, simply by providing instant feedback in a way that felt structured yet supportive.

That’s when it hit me — AI isn’t just about automation, it’s about accessibility. It’s giving female coaches the ability to get the guidance they need, when they need it, without waiting for the next group call or coaching session. It’s opening doors, breaking down barriers, and creating a whole new level of support for women in business. And the best part? This is just the beginning. Every time I think we’ve hit the ceiling of what’s possible with AI, another opportunity presents itself, showing us how we can use it to create even greater impact.

You are a successful leader in the AI space. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

I’d say the three character traits that have been most instrumental to my success in integrating AI into business are vision, adaptability, and courage.

1. Vision — Seeing Beyond the Immediate

When I first started exploring AI, I wasn’t interested in tech for tech’s sake. My vision was (and still is) to help female coaches build thriving, sustainable businesses without burning out. AI wasn’t just a tool; it was a way to scale impact while keeping human connection at the heart of coaching. A perfect example of this was when we started developing Skye, our AI-powered coaching assistant. I didn’t want it to be just another chatbot — I envisioned it as a strategic partner that could help women move past roadblocks in real-time. Staying connected to that bigger vision allowed me to push past initial skepticism and explore how AI could truly serve our community.

2. Adaptability — Embracing the Unknown

AI is constantly evolving, and if you’re not willing to adapt, you’ll be left behind. When I first started using AI in content creation, it wasn’t perfect — it felt robotic, lacked warmth, and honestly, I was a bit hesitant to trust it. But instead of dismissing it, I adapted. I experimented, trained the models to match our brand voice, and refined how we used AI to complement our existing strategies rather than replace them. Now, AI-powered content helps us show up more consistently, freeing up time for deeper, high-touch coaching interactions. That willingness to evolve has been key in making AI work for us rather than against us.

3. Courage — Taking Risks Others Won’t

Stepping into the AI space as a female entrepreneur and business coach required courage — especially when AI is often positioned as a ‘tech bro’ industry. There were moments when I questioned if this was the right move, whether AI would resonate with my audience, or if it would take away from the authenticity of coaching. But I trusted my instincts. I saw the opportunity, I tested it, and I leaned in even when it felt outside my comfort zone. And the result? We’ve built AI-driven solutions that actually empower female coaches instead of overwhelming them. That’s what courage looks like — not just taking risks, but taking calculated risks that align with your mission.

These three traits — vision, adaptability, and courage — have been the driving force behind how we use AI, and honestly, they’re the same traits that have helped me build my business from the ground up. AI isn’t just about technology; it’s about leadership, innovation, and having the guts to create something new.

Let’s jump to the primary focus of our interview. Can you share a specific example of how you or your organization used AI to solve a major business challenge? What was the problem, and how did AI help address it?

Absolutely! I mentioned Skye earlier, but this is the perfect place to dive deeper into how it’s solving a major challenge for female coaches.

One of the biggest struggles I saw in our community was accessibility — coaches needed guidance and support around the clock, but I physically couldn’t be available 24/7. Whether they were stuck on pricing, unsure how to handle an objection on a sales call, or just needed a confidence boost before posting online, they wanted fast, reliable answers based on my strategies. The problem? There was only one of me, and demand kept growing.

That’s where Skye came in. I knew AI could bridge the gap, but I didn’t want just another generic chatbot. Skye was built as a true AI-powered coaching assistant, trained on all of my teachings, strategies, and frameworks — everything from pricing and packaging to soulful sales and client attraction. She speaks in my voice, understands the nuances of coaching, and can provide instant, actionable advice whenever a coach needs it.

For example, one of our clients was about to hop on a discovery call and felt nervous about handling objections. Instead of waiting for the next group session or sending me a message, she asked Skye how to respond. Within seconds, Skye gave her a tailored response based on the exact sales framework we teach. She used it and handled the objection confidently on the call.

That’s the power of AI when used strategically. Skye isn’t replacing coaching — it’s enhancing access to it, ensuring that female coaches never feel stuck or unsupported in their business. It’s taken what used to be a major bottleneck — waiting for feedback, searching for answers, or second-guessing decisions — and turned it into instant clarity and confidence.

And the best part? This is just the beginning. AI is opening doors for female entrepreneurs in ways we’ve never seen before, and Skye is leading the way.

What are some of the common misconceptions you’ve encountered about using AI in business? How do you address those misconceptions?

There are quite a few misconceptions about AI in business, especially in the coaching industry. The biggest ones I’ve encountered are:

1. “AI will replace human connection.”

This is the biggest fear people have, and I get it — coaching is personal. But AI, when used strategically, isn’t about replacing human connection; it’s about enhancing access to it. Take Skye, for example. Female coaches wanted 24/7 access to my guidance, but that just wasn’t possible. Skye allows them to get instant, accurate advice based on my strategies without losing the personal touch. The result? More momentum, more confidence, and better results. AI doesn’t replace relationships — it supports them.

2. “AI is too robotic and inauthentic.”

When AI first hit the scene, a lot of the content it produced felt stiff and disconnected. But the truth is, AI is only as good as what it’s trained on. That’s why I made sure Skye was trained on my exact teachings, voice, and strategies so it actually feels like having me in their corner. We also use AI to support content creation, but with human refinement — so posts still sound like you, not a machine.

3. “AI is only for big corporations with massive budgets.”

A lot of female entrepreneurs think AI is out of reach or too complicated, but the reality is, AI is one of the most accessible tools out there — and it doesn’t require a massive budget. Tools like ChatGPT offer a free version, and even the premium versions are available for a small monthly fee. That means any coach, no matter where they’re at in business, can start using AI to save time and scale smarter.

For example, instead of spending hours brainstorming content, AI can help generate ideas in minutes. Instead of staring at a blank page, struggling with messaging, AI can provide structure and suggestions that you can tweak to fit your voice. It’s not about handing over your creativity to AI — it’s about using it as a tool to speed up the process so you can spend more time connecting with clients and growing your business.

That’s exactly why I built Skye — to take AI to the next level by training it on my exact frameworks so female coaches can get instant, tailored coaching support without the high price tag of one-on-one access. AI is no longer a luxury for big businesses — it’s an everyday tool that small business owners can (and should) be using right now.

At the end of the day, AI isn’t something to fear — it’s something to leverage. When used with intention, it becomes a tool for freedom, not restriction. That’s the shift I want more female entrepreneurs to see.

In your opinion, what is the most significant way AI can make a positive impact on businesses today?

The most significant way AI can make a positive impact on businesses today is by giving entrepreneurs back their time while still allowing them to scale.

For female coaches, time is often the biggest bottleneck. They’re juggling content creation, lead generation, sales conversations, client delivery, and all the behind-the-scenes tasks of running a business. It’s overwhelming, and without systems in place, many hit a ceiling — they simply can’t take on more clients without burning out.

AI changes that. Whether it’s through automating repetitive tasks, optimizing content creation, or providing instant support through AI-driven coaching tools like Skye, AI allows businesses to work smarter, not harder. Instead of spending hours writing social media posts, AI can generate ideas in seconds. Instead of manually responding to every lead, AI can help qualify and nurture them, so coaches spend their time on high-value conversations that actually convert.

The real game-changer? AI doesn’t just create efficiency — it creates opportunity. When used strategically, it allows businesses to scale beyond what was previously possible without sacrificing authenticity or human connection. That’s the kind of impact that not only drives revenue but also brings more freedom — so entrepreneurs can build thriving businesses and still have a life outside of work.

Ok, let’s dive deeper. Based on your experience and research, can you please share “5 Ways AI Can Solve Complex Business Problems”? These can be strategies, insights, or tools that companies can use to make the most of AI in addressing their challenges. If possible, please share examples or stories for each.

AI as a 24/7 Business Coach and Mentor

One of the biggest challenges female coaches face is access to guidance when they need it most. Whether they’re stuck on pricing, unsure how to handle a sales objection, or need a confidence boost before posting online, waiting for the next coaching call can slow momentum.

That’s exactly why I built Skye — our AI-powered coaching assistant, trained on my exact strategies and frameworks. Instead of second-guessing decisions or feeling stuck, coaches can get instant, tailored advice anytime.

Example: One of our clients used Skye to prep for a discovery call she was nervous about. She got instant feedback on handling objections, used the response in real-time, and signed the client on the spot. That’s AI working as a business accelerator, not just a passive tool.

Automating Content Creation Without Losing Your Voice

A major pain point for entrepreneurs is consistently creating content that resonates with their audience. AI tools like ChatGPT can help generate ideas, draft captions, and repurpose existing content in a fraction of the time. But the key is training AI to match your unique tone, so it feels authentic rather than robotic.

Example: Instead of spending hours brainstorming and writing posts, one of our clients used AI to outline her content, then refined it in her voice. The result? More engagement, less stress, and time freed up to focus on clients.

AI-Powered Lead Qualification and Sales Support

Many businesses waste time responding to inquiries that don’t lead to sales. AI can analyze messages, filter leads, and automate responses, so business owners spend their time on high-value interactions instead of sorting through conversations.

Example: A business using an AI-powered chatbot can automatically qualify leads by asking key questions, such as budget, needs, and readiness to buy. The AI can then prioritize high-quality leads while directing others to free resources, ensuring the sales team focuses on the best opportunities.

Personalized Client Support and Engagement

AI allows businesses to scale their client interactions without losing the personal touch. Through AI-driven onboarding, automated check-ins, and FAQ chatbots, businesses can provide a seamless client experience without needing to be available 24/7.

Example: A service provider can set up an AI-driven onboarding system that sends personalized welcome messages, next steps, and reminders to new clients. This ensures that clients stay engaged, feel supported, and move through the program smoothly without waiting for manual responses.

Smarter Decision-Making Through AI Insights

AI isn’t just about automation — it’s about smarter business decisions. AI can track content performance, analyze customer behavior, and provide insights into what’s actually working, allowing business owners to make data-driven decisions instead of guessing.

Example: A business using AI-driven analytics can track which social media posts generate the most engagement, which email subject lines get the most opens, or which marketing campaigns convert best. With this data, they can double down on what works and stop wasting time on what doesn’t.

Final Thoughts:

AI isn’t here to replace human connection, creativity, or strategy — it’s here to enhance and scale what already works. When used intentionally, AI becomes a powerful tool that frees up time, increases revenue, and allows entrepreneurs to focus on what truly matters — impact, growth, and building a business that works for them.

How can smaller businesses or startups, with limited budgets, begin to integrate AI into their operations effectively?

The great news is that AI is more accessible than ever, and you don’t need a huge budget to start using it effectively. Here are three simple ways small businesses can integrate AI without breaking the bank:

Start with Free or Low-Cost AI Tools — Many AI-powered tools, like ChatGPT, Canva’s AI features, and email automation platforms, have free versions or affordable monthly plans. Even just using AI for content generation, brainstorming, or automating customer inquiries can save hours of time each week.
Automate Repetitive Tasks First — Identify time-consuming manual tasks that AI can handle, like scheduling, customer support, or content repurposing. For example, AI chatbots can handle FAQs, freeing you up for higher-level work while still providing excellent customer service.
Use AI to Enhance, Not Replace, Your Work — AI doesn’t need to take over everything. Instead, use it as a tool to assist you, whether that’s generating content outlines, analyzing customer data, or helping with lead qualification. Small, strategic integrations can have a huge impact on efficiency and growth.

What advice would you give to business leaders who are hesitant to adopt AI because of fear, misconceptions, or lack of understanding?

I completely understand the hesitation — AI can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about losing the human touch in your business. But here’s the truth:

AI is just a tool — it’s how you use it that matters. You don’t have to go all-in at once. Start small, test it, and see where it can support your business without replacing the parts that make your brand unique.
You’re probably already using AI without realizing it. Email filters, social media algorithms, and predictive text — these are all AI-powered! Once you realize AI is already part of your daily life, it becomes easier to see how it can work for your business.
You’re in control. AI isn’t here to replace relationships or creativity — it’s here to remove the busywork so you can focus on what actually grows your business. Start with one AI-powered tool and experiment. You’ll likely find it’s more of an asset than a threat.

In your opinion, how will AI continue to shape the business world over the next 5–10 years? Are there any trends or emerging innovations you’re particularly excited about?

AI is going to become more intuitive, more accessible, and more personalized. Some of the biggest shifts I see coming include:

Hyper-Personalization — AI will allow businesses to offer customized experiences at scale, from tailored marketing messages to AI-powered coaching that adapts to each user’s specific needs.
AI as a Business Partner, Not Just a Tool — We’re already seeing this with Skye, but AI will continue to evolve from an “assistant” into a true strategic partner, offering real-time decision-making support.
Ethical AI & Transparency — As AI becomes more embedded in business, there will be a greater focus on ethical AI usage, ensuring businesses use AI responsibly and transparently to build trust with customers.

I’m especially excited about AI-powered mentorship and business education, making expert-level guidance available to people who wouldn’t otherwise have access to it. AI is breaking down barriers, and that’s a game-changer.

How do you think the use of AI to solve business problems influences relationships with customers, employees, and the broader community?

Used correctly, AI can strengthen relationships rather than weaken them. Here’s how:

With Customers — AI can provide faster, more personalized experiences, whether through instant customer support, tailored recommendations, or AI-driven coaching assistants like Skye. This builds trust and improves customer satisfaction.
With Employees — AI can remove repetitive, low-value tasks, allowing teams to focus on more meaningful, high-impact work. This increases job satisfaction and productivity.
With the Broader Community — When businesses leverage AI for efficiency, they free up more time and resources to give back, whether that’s supporting causes, mentoring others, or creating more accessible services for a wider audience.

AI doesn’t have to be impersonal — when used ethically and strategically, it enhances relationships, improves efficiency, and creates more meaningful connections.

You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people through AI, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂

I would start a “Smart Scaling for Women” movement, using AI to help female entrepreneurs work less and earn more — without burnout.

Too many women are trapped in the “time-for-money” model, believing they have to work harder to earn more. AI changes the game — it allows women to automate, streamline, and scale their businesses in ways that weren’t possible before.

This movement would:

Provide free AI training for female entrepreneurs — so they can leverage AI for content, sales, and client support.
Offer AI-powered mentorship programs, giving women access to instant business guidance through AI-driven coaching models.
Demystify AI and remove the fear around it, showing women how to use AI to free up time, grow their income, and build businesses that support their lives, not consume them.

The goal? More women making more money while working fewer hours. AI is a tool for freedom, and I want to see more female entrepreneurs use it to build businesses that fit their vision of success, not just traditional expectations.

And who knows? Maybe Skye is just the beginning…

How can our readers further follow you online?

They can connect with me personally via my Facebook profile here: https://www.facebook.com/sophie.musumeci1

OR, if you’re a female coach or consultant looking for a supportive community and access to incredible free trainings, you can join our group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/RealEWomen

This was great. Thank you so much for the time you spent sharing with us.

About the Interviewer: Chad Silverstein is a seasoned entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience as a Founder and CEO. While attending Ohio State University, he launched his first company, Choice Recovery, Inc., a nationally recognized healthcare collection agency — twice ranked the #1 workplace in Ohio. In 2013, he founded [re]start, helping thousands of people find meaningful career opportunities. After selling both companies, Chad shifted his focus to his true passion — leadership. Today, he coaches founders and CEOs at Built to Lead, advises Authority Magazine’s Thought Leader Incubator.

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