I still remember the days I spent hours—sometimes entire weekends—researching, writing, planning workshops, and editing this podcast.
And I honestly thought, “That’s just the price of doing meaningful work.”
Then AI came into my life—and everything changed.
Today, I can’t imagine running my business without it. It’s like I’ve hired an assistant, strategist, and copywriter all rolled into one… and available 24/7.
But here’s the thing:
Most women I talk to—especially those in leadership—aren’t using it.
Some are intimidated. Some don’t know where to start. Others simply believe it’s “not for them.”
This week’s episode of From a Woman to a Leader is for all of us who’ve ever thought:
💬 “I’m not technical enough.”
💬 “What if AI replaces me?”
💬 “How would I even use it in my day-to-day?”
I sat down with the incredible Nicole Hilgenkamp, a corporate transformation expert and AI educator who’s making it her mission to help women not just keep up—but lead the way.
AI Is Not Here to Replace You—It’s Here to Free You
Nicole’s message is clear:
AI won’t take your job. But someone who knows how to use it might.
She shared this powerful truth:
“You don’t need to know everything about AI. You just need to start using it—and let it learn from you.”
AI is not about coding. It’s about curiosity. It’s about asking better questions and using the answers to make our lives easier.
Whether it’s planning a meeting, prepping dinner, or communicating better with your team (or even your teenager!)—AI can be your coach, your planner, and your brainstorm partner.
And Nicole isn’t just teaching theory—she’s using AI in her own life, every single day.
What It Really Means to Be AI Literate (And Why Women Should Care)
Let’s get real:
As women in tech and leadership, we already carry so much.
We juggle deadlines, Zoom calls, family logistics, emotional labor—and we often still believe we need to “do it all” without help.
AI is the help.
Being AI-literate doesn’t mean becoming a data scientist.
It means:
✅ Understanding how tools like ChatGPT or Gemini can help
✅ Asking smart, detailed prompts to get meaningful output
✅ Building habits that save you hours every week
Nicole breaks this down in the episode in a way that’s empowering and approachable. You’ll walk away thinking, “Wait—I can actually do this.” Because you can.
Bringing AI Into Your Work Life Without Waiting for Permission
One of my favorite moments in the conversation?
When Nicole shared how she introduced AI into her workplace before it was officially rolled out.
She simply asked:
•“Where am I wasting time?”
•“What’s repetitive or draining?”
•“Could AI help?”
And guess what? It did. In fact, she led a hackathon that uncovered $1.2 million in productivity gains—all by encouraging people to experiment with AI tools.
Whether you’re in HR, marketing, engineering, or ops—AI can help you and your team save time and focus on high-impact work. You don’t need a company-wide rollout. You can start where you are.
Why Women Must Lead the AI Revolution
Let’s be honest:
We’ve often been left out of past tech revolutions.
But we have a chance to change that.
AI is evolving fast. If we wait until someone gives us permission or a formal training program, we’ll be behind.
But if we start now, we get to be part of shaping the future of leadership—and the future of work.
Nicole’s call to action is clear:
“Women who embrace AI won’t just save time. They’ll rise faster, lead stronger, and open doors for others.”
And I couldn’t agree more.
Ready to Start Using AI to Work Smarter, Not Harder?
This episode is packed with practical ways to get started—no tech background required.
If you’ve been curious but hesitant… this conversation will give you the confidence and roadmap to take the first step.
🎧 Listen to the full episode now:
👉 https://limorbergman.com/podcast/
Watch the Video version of this episode
💬 What’s one way AI could simplify your life? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments or via DM.
About Nicole Hilgenkamp
Nicole Hilgenkamp is an AI educator, operational excellence leader, and corporate transformation expert with over 20 years of experience in driving innovation and building future-ready organizations. She’s passionate about helping women embrace AI to lead with impact and ease.
About Limor Bergman Gross
I’m Limor Bergman Gross, a former Director of Engineering turned executive coach for women in tech. I’m here to help you rise to the top—without burning out or compromising who you are.
Through my podcast, From a Woman to a Leader, I bring you honest, powerful conversations with women who’ve been there—and want to help you get there too.
Let’s connect:
🌐 Website
▶️ YouTube
