What happens when a lifelong educator discovers AI—and finds herself all over again? In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, Michelle sits down with Diane Kjellgren, corporate trainer, former professor, and visual AI artist, to talk about how AI sparked a new creative chapter in midlife. From embracing Midjourney like a box of crayons to building tools that support neurodivergent learners, Diane’s story is a masterclass in possibility.

Whether you’re just dipping a toe into generative tools or wondering how to build a business with purpose, Diane’s journey reminds us: it all starts with a question.

Meet Our Guest:

Diane Kjellgren is a corporate trainer and lifelong educator who’s passionate about reimagining learning, storytelling, and inclusion through the lens of AI. A member of communities like Secret AI Society, She Leads AI, and She is AI, Diane is building tools to support adults with autism, while rediscovering her own creative spark along the way.

In This Episode:

• [00:02:00] From Class rooms to Executive Training—Diane’s journey through education
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• [00:04:30] The first time Midjourney felt like opening a box of crayons
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• [00:07:30] Why AI gave Diane a space to process emotions and explore humor
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• [00:10:45] How Colombian folklore sparked a global storytelling challenge
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• [00:13:00] Using AI to write business plans, solve problems, and ask better questions
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• [00:16:20] Supporting neurodivergent learners with no-judgment AI tools
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• [00:18:00] Building a program to prepare autistic adults for the workforce
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• [00:23:30] Why career reinvention after 50 is actually an advantage
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• [00:27:00] A call to educators: model AI, don’t fear it
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• [00:30:15] The habit we don’t talk about in midlife reinvention
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• [00:32:30] Diane’s challenge to listeners: Ask the question. Then build the answer.

💬 Let’s connect:

Tag @Michelle Muncy-Silva and @Empowered by AI to share your favorite takeaway from the episode.