270: Why Business Owners Can’t Ignore AI & Tools And Trends To Look Out For w/ Stacy Kirk
As a Black entrepreneur, you’ve probably felt the weight of trying to keep up with new technology while still running every part of your business. Maybe you’ve asked yourself if AI is just another passing trend or if it’s something you really need to pay attention to. The truth is, AI is already transforming how businesses operate and compete. For us, staying informed and prepared is not just about keeping up, it is about leveling the playing field and creating opportunities to lead.
That is why we brought in Stacy Kirk, a tech entrepreneur and thought leader who has built her career helping businesses embrace innovation. In this episode, Stacy shares why AI cannot be ignored, the most important tools and trends you should know about, and how to use them in practical ways that fit your business. She makes technology feel approachable and offers strategies that allow you to save time, streamline your work, and create opportunities to grow.
DURING THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:
- Why AI matters for every business owner no matter the industry you are in.
- The most important tools and trends to watch in the AI space.
- How to adopt AI with confidence even if you are not a “tech person.”
- Ways AI can help you save time, reduce stress, and focus on growth.
- How to create a future-ready business by embracing innovation and adaptability.
- Why staying informed about AI trends is essential for Black entrepreneurs who want to stay competitive and ahead of the curve.
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
- Claude AI – Best for thoughtful writing, brainstorming, and handling longer text-based tasks with context.
- ChatGPT – Great for generating content, answering questions, and giving quick business support across many areas.
- Gemini – Perfect for creating high-quality, AI-generated images for branding and marketing.
- Canva (with paid add-ons) – Easy-to-use design platform that can also generate ads, images, and creative assets.
- Grammarly – Ideal for polishing your writing and sending professional, error-free emails
- Seamless AI – Connects with LinkedIn to help you find and manage leads more effectively.
- ElevenLabs – Creates realistic AI voices and videos to level up your content and marketing.
- Lovable – Makes it simple to design and build web applications without advanced coding skills.
ABOUT STACY KIRK:
Stacy Kirk is a visionary entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in software development innovation. A Stanford Computer Science graduate, she founded QualityWorks Consulting Group in 2010, a full-service technology consultancy that accelerates time-to-market through automation and agile best practices. QualityWorks has since expanded its services to include AI-driven solutions for business challenges.
Leading a diverse team of over 40 technologists across the US and Jamaica, Stacy is a recognized thought leader in AI readiness and data quality. Her company has earned accolades like Inc’s Best in Business for their work in social impact, and she is frequently invited to speak on cutting-edge tech advancements.
Thank you so much for listening! If you liked this episode, please subscribe to “The Black to Business Podcast” and rate and review on Apple Podcasts:
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