BLOOMFIELD, N.J. - s4story -- Anna D. Banks, Founder and Managing Director of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., was a featured speaker at the AI Insights Summit on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

Her TED Talk-style presentation, "AI Won't Replace You. Readiness Will Decide Who Leads," focused on one clear message: the future will not be led by the most technical people. It will be led by the most prepared people.

Banks spoke to leaders, workforce professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, public agencies, chambers, nonprofits, and community partners about the growing need for AI readiness. Her presentation helped attendees move beyond fear, confusion, and hype into practical action.

"AI is already changing how we hire, communicate, lead, train, serve, and make decisions," Banks said. "The real threat is not AI. The real threat is unreadiness."

During the presentation, Banks introduced her READY Pathway™ Framework, a human-centered approach to AI readiness. The framework helps leaders and teams recognize the shift, equip people with skills, apply AI to real problems, develop responsible habits, and yield measurable results.

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The session also highlighted the importance of human-centered skills in the AI era, including empathy, leadership, creativity, emotional intelligence, and trust.

Banks is known for translating complex topics into clear, practical strategies that everyday leaders and organizations can use. Through Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., she provides AI training, workforce readiness programs, leadership development, DISC training, career readiness support, keynotes, curriculum, workbooks, and facilitator guides.

As part of the summit, Banks invited attendees to take the Future-Ready Leader Assessment™, a practical tool designed to help leaders identify their readiness score, strengths, and next growth moves. Take the Assessment at https://becomeaireadynow.com.

"Readiness is not just a feeling," Banks said. "It should show up in confidence, productivity, communication, and better service. AI can assist our judgment, but it should never replace our judgment."

The AI Insights Summit brought together thought leaders and professionals exploring the future of artificial intelligence, leadership, business, and work.

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For more information about Anna D. Banks and Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., contact Anna@ThriveLeadershipInstitute.com.

About Anna D. Banks
Anna D. Banks is the Founder and Managing Director of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. She is an executive coach, trainer, speaker, author, and AI consultant who helps leaders, teams, and organizations build confidence, readiness, and practical skills for the future of work.

About Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc.
Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. provides AI literacy, workforce readiness, leadership development, career readiness, DISC training, and practical learning solutions for organizations preparing people—not just systems—for what's next.